"Faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of God" (Rom. 10:17). If this is indeed true, then some level of confidence must exist in the book we now call the Bible," which is believed by many throughout time, as the word of God. Is this book reliable? Is this book inerrant? Can we trust it to be the word of God?
These are all fair and reasonable questions that demand answers.
The book we have today is a collection of writings by over 30 different men inspired by the Holy Spirit.
"All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness,” (2 Timothy 3:16, NKJV)
These were translated from original languages such as Hebrew, Aramaic and Greek in the modern english translations we read now. We have no original manuscripts (i.e., the original documents penned by the inspired writers). We have a plethora of ancient copies of copies. The translation process involved verifying these copies with one another to ensure accuracy.
Each translation (KJV, NKJV, NASB, NIV, ESY, etc.) all take slightly different approaches to their translation process, but by and large, give us a crystal clear perception of the original language and intent. Most disagreement arises not because of translational issues, but because of issues of interpretation and understastanding. The apostle Peter admonished...
"...knowing this first, that no prophecy of Scripture is of any private interpretation, for prophecy never came by the will of man, but holy men of God spoke as they were moved by the Holy Spirit.” (2 Peter 1:20–21, NKJV)
Understanding this, most students of God's word do not put too much faith in any single translation of scripture, but study from a variety to enhance their understanding of the word.
Translations are not innerrant, but the word of God is. This is a critical truth. In a good, solid translation (not a narrative or paraphrase) of God's word, there will be errors, but none so devestating as to impact the overall truths considered. Many have looked for and have found perceived inconstencies, errors and such, but they are almost universally answerable to those of a good and honest heart. Those who seek to deny the whole of God's word, the Bible, will cling to such perceived inconsistencies as their rationale. Such is folly.
The truths of God's word will always be relevant, no matter what time we live in, what culture, what background, what dynamic. These truths deal with and address the basic and undeniable realities of life under this sun. They are core. They are universal. They are foundational. Sin is sin and will always remain sin. Life is life and will always remain life. God is God and will always remain God. Therefore, the truths of God's word, no matter what men may say, will always remain the truth.
We believe, as Peter believed, that Jesus has "the words of eternal ife" (John 6:68). This is the basis and foundation of our faith. Thus, we accept the Bible as the inerrant and ever-relevant word of God.