Keith's Comments
Circular Reasoning
When writing and speaking of the Bible, Christians usually site the following verse as proof of its' accuracy:

"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)

However, non-believing opponents of the Bible say that this is utilizing 'circular reasoning', which is believing a document to be true simply due to the documents say-so.

But, the historicity of the Bible has been proven in three areas: people, places and objects. Not only by archaeological means, which covers the aforementioned subjects of places and objects, but also by support of many secular writings, which covers the subject of people. Only some of these are:

Cornelius Tacitus

A Roman historian, in A.D. 112, Governor of Asia, son-in-law of Julius Agricola, who was Governor of Britain A.D. 80-84. Writing of the reign of Nero, Tacitus alludes to Christ and to the existence of Christians at Rome.

Lucian of Samosata

A satirist of the second century, who spoke scornfully of Christ and the Christians.

Flavius Josephus

A Jewish historian, he became a Pharisee at age 19, and in A.D. 66 was the commander of the Jewish forces in Galilee.

Plinius Secundus

Governor of Bithynia in Asia Minor (A.D. 112), Pliny was writing the emperor Trajan seeking counsel as to how to treat the Christians.

Phlegon

A first-century historian whose Chronicles have been lost, but a small fragment of that work confirms the darkness upon the earth at the crucifixion, is also mentioned by Julius Africanus.

With support from some such as these secular writers, the verifiable accuracy of people, places and events of the Bible stand as proof for the accuracy of future prophecies, and their Divine authenticity. So, as God inspired His Word to be written, He inspires us through the Holy Spirit to seek out the One who offers eternal life with Him. Jesus said:

"Search the Scriptures; for in them ye think ye have eternal life: and they are they which testify of me." (John 5:39)

Keith

09-15-2003

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