Patterns of Evidence: The Moses ControversySample

Watch today’s clip as Tim Mahoney discovers some amazing evidence and a definite pattern.

So, what if the Bible is actually God’s life-giving Word provided to humanity, through humanity, and for humanity? Over the next two days, we will look at four alliterate words that encompass much of the Bible’s focus in communicating to us.

• Prophecy

The Encyclopedia of Bible Prophecy states there are 1,239 prophecies in the Old Testament and 578 in the New Testament encompassing 8,352 verses. While we find theologians differing on the actual number of prophecies that Christ fulfilled, all agree there are direct and exact connections to a majority.

Two great examples are those foretelling Jesus’ birth, Isaiah 7:14, and His death, Psalm 22:14-18.

Most theologians believe the Isaiah prophecy was about 700 years before Christ’s birth. Verses such as this explain why people were watching and waiting for the Messiah. The Psalms’ verses were written approximately 1,000 years prior to Christ’s birth, before crucifixion was even practiced. The details of Jesus on the cross are very clear.

God used His Word through these many connections throughout history to prove to us He is not only real but that His Son is Who He said He is.

• Precepts

If God created us, then He would also know the best way to live life. His Word is filled with precepts, commands, and laws to instruct and protect us. In Matthew 22:35-39, when Jesus was questioned by a religious official about God’s precepts, knowing the Pharisees were trying to trap him by His own words, He simply summed up all of God’s laws (paraphrasing): “Love God first, then love others as yourself.”

When we look deeper into God’s precepts, we can also see His values. We find His heart for us in His laws. For example, if we value Him above all else in life, we will never want anything else to take His place. If we value life the way He does, we will not murder. If we believe in the sanctity of marriage, we will never harm anyone else’s and focus on our own. If we are grateful for all God gives us, we will not want what our neighbors have.

Considering God’s prophecies and precepts, what are some ways you have seen His love and care for you through your interaction with His Word?