Bible Question:
A friend of mine was saying that the Bible discourages people from asking questions. She said that the Bible discouraged people from asking questions because then people would find everything that is wrong with it. However, I remember a verse in the Bible that said to the effect,
Bible Answer:
First, you cannot find the statement that you are looking for in the Bible because it does not exist in the Bible. The closest passage in the Bible related to your search is 1 Timothy 6:3-4. Here it is,
If anyone advocates a different doctrine and does not agree with sound words, those of our Lord Jesus Christ, and with the doctrine conforming to godliness, he is conceited and understands nothing; but he has a morbid interest in controversial questions and disputes about words, out of which arise envy, strife, abusive language, evil suspicions . . . 1 Tim 6:3-4 (NAS95S)
However, the passage does not forbid the asking of questions. It warns against being preoccupied with controversial questions and disputes.
There is nothing wrong with asking questions that seek to understand the meaning of the Bible. For example, the apostle Paul during his three missionary journeys went from city to city in Asia Minor, Macedonia, and Greece and answered the questions of many people. When the apostle arrived at Thessalonica, he entered a Jewish synagogue so that he could tell them about Jesus Christ. Here is what happened.
And according to Paul’s custom, he went to them, and for three Sabbaths reasoned with them from the Scriptures . . . Acts 17:2 (NAS95S)
The word “reasoned” in this verse comes from the Greek word DIALEGOMAI. While the word does have the idea of “reasoning” it also refers to people “dialoging” or asking questions and then being given answers. That is, Paul and the people were talking with each other and they were asking questions about the faith. That would have required explaining the meaning of passages from the Bible.
In the city of Berea, God actually complemented the Christians because they had searched the Bible to discover if what the apostle Paul had told them was the truth.
Now these were more noble-minded than those in Thessalonica, for they received the word with great eagerness, examining the Scriptures daily to see whether these things were so. Acts 17:11 (NAS95S)
That verse alone reveals that it is okay to ask questions about the Bible. But that verse also tells us that God approves. He commends us for asking questions and searching the Bible. In fact, God commands us to study the Bible in 2 Timothy 2:15. Here is the verse.
Be diligent to present yourself approved to God as a workman who does not need to be ashamed, accurately handling the word of truth. 2 Tim 2:15 (NAS95S)
Conclusion:
If you study the Bible you will find that contrary to your friend’s statement, the Bible does not have a whole lot of things “wrong.” In fact, the Bible is perfectly accurate. For example, there are numerous questions that have been asked by people who wondered if the Bible has made mistakes and responses to their questions have been posted at this website. In each case, after careful study we have discovered that there are no errors. We typically discover that those who claim that the Bible has a bunch of things wrong usually have not studied the Bible. Let us suggest that you start your study of the Bible by exploring the study “How Accurate Is the Bible?” lessons at Solid Roots. You will also need God to help you understand the Bible (2 Cor. 2:12-14). So let me encourage you to read “Peace With God.”
Suggested Links:
How Accurate Is the Bible?Discipleship Series - Solid Roots
Searching For God