01.01 - Importance of the Subject Discussed

INSPIRATION AND REVELATION PART I PRELIMINARY DISCUSSIONS (1) Importance of the Subject Discussed THAT the subject of Inspiration and Revelation should be the suggested topic for this lecture, at this time, is what might be expected considering the relation of this question to modern Biblical criticism.

Something like a revolution in Biblical criticism and theology has taken place during the last quarter of a century, and the question of Inspiration and Revelation has been largely affected by it. Moreover, the advances and discoveries of recent years in science, archaeology, literary criticism, and the determination of the texts of the sacred Scriptures have had their bearing on these doctrines.

It seems desirable that a lecture of this kind should discuss this question, lying as it does at the basis of all theology and religion. It is important, also, because Revelation, which concerns the supernatural communication of truth to men respecting God, man, redemption, salvation, etc, is concerned in a great degree with historical theology and ethics as also with doctrinal and dogmatic beliefs. The consideration of this question is also desirable because some condensed and careful presentation of the present position of this subject, viewed from the standpoint of modern Biblical criticism, is a felt necessity. This is no slight task, in view of the conflicting theories of constructive and destructive schools of criticism. To hold the scales even and care fully weigh the elements of truth in the conceptions of both require not only a clear judgment and a well-balanced mind, but an adequate knowledge of the views of both sides, and the power to discern the truth and to estimate its bearings and value qualifications that come of careful training, special study, and familiar acquaintance with the subject. As this lecture is intended for popular use, we will avoid as far as possible all abstruse reasoning, all technical terms and expressions, all learned quotations, and seek to present the subject in as full, clear, and popular a manner as we may be able. Those who wish to pursue the study further will find easy of access all the helps necessary for the prosecution of the task. While we discuss certain of the views held and conclusions reached on this subject, we shall consider them in relation to the Canon of Scripture, the higher criticism, the alleged errors and discrepancies of Scripture, literary and moral questions, the claims of Old and New Testament writers, the evidential value of miracles and prophecy, and the moral influence of the Scriptures in the Church and the world. Our hope is that by this discussion we may help to reassure the doubting as to the reality of divine Inspiration and Revelation, and strengthen their faith and confidence in the Bible as the Word of God, and the authoritative rule of faith and practice.