Guiding Question: How did we get the Old Testament, and how can we be confident it's truly from God?

Summary

Description: Robert Lewis opens his "Theology 101" series by diving deep into the origins and credibility of the Old Testament. Addressing a question most believers rarely explore—how we got the Old Testament and whether it is historically and theologically trustworthy—he walks through the human and divine processes behind the formation of the Old Testament. This includes insights into the nature of inspiration, the role of prophets and compilers, and the role archeology and prophecy play in affirming the Old Testament's supernatural nature. He also emphasizes Jesus’ own view of the Old Testament, adding a compelling reason for Christians to trust it.

Outline:

1. Introduction to Bibliology

   • Is the Bible true? If so, how do we know?

   • Special focus on the Old Testament.

2. Mystery and Faith

   • Much of the Old Testament’s origin lies in ancient history.

   • Acknowledges gaps but highlights archeological support.

3. Human Authorship Types

   • Inspired, proven leaders (e.g., Moses).

   • Inspired, proven prophets (e.g., Elijah).

   • Inspired compilers (e.g., authors of Psalms, Kings).

4. The Supernatural Smell Test

   • Books were accepted based on clear evidence of divine activity and historical consistency.

5. How the Old Testament Was Compiled

   • Slowly over 1,000 years.

   • Scrolls added over time until writing stopped around 400 BC.

   • Josephus’ affirmation of its completion and integrity.

6. The Apocrypha

   • Not accepted by Jews or early Christians.

   • Added later by the Catholic Church in 1546.

7. Jesus’ Endorsement

   • Treated the Old Testament as authoritative, infallible, imperishable, and historical.

   • Quoted it often and lived in fulfillment of its prophecies.

8. Prophecy as Proof

   • Dozens of fulfilled prophecies, especially those about Jesus.

   • Examples include birthplace, manner of death, resurrection, and eternal reign.

9. Conclusion and Call to Faith

   • Faith in the Old Testament is not blind—it’s based on strong evidence.

   • The Old Testament ultimately points to Jesus and invites us not to miss him.

Key Takeaways

• The Old Testament did not fall from the sky; it was compiled over a millennium by inspired leaders, prophets, and trusted compilers.

• Archeological and historical discoveries in the 20th century have increasingly supported its accuracy.

• Jesus himself affirmed the Old Testament’s authority and fulfillment in his life.

• Fulfilled prophecy gives powerful evidence of divine authorship.

• The Old Testament is not merely historical—it’s personal and relational, pointing directly to Jesus Christ.

• Faith in the Bible is reasonable and evidence-based, not blind or naive.

Scriptural References

• Genesis 49:10 (Tribe of Judah)

• Jeremiah 23:5–6 (King from David’s line)

• Micah 5:2 (Born in Bethlehem)

• Isaiah 7:14 (Born of a virgin)

• Isaiah 9:6 (Mighty God, Prince of Peace)

• Isaiah 53 (Suffering Servant, sacrifice, resurrection)

• Psalm 22 (Crucifixion details)

• Daniel 9:25–26 (Timeline of Messiah’s death)

• Matthew 4:4; 5:18; 15:3–6; 22:29; 24:37–39

• John 5:39–40; 10:35; 12:34–35

Recorded 10/17/04