Tests for the Reliability of Ancient Literature - Part 4 by Dr. Joe L. Mott on Feb. 9, 2026

References: (1) “The Historical Reliability of the Gospels” by Craig L. Bloomberg. (2) Bible deniers declare that the Bible is FULL of contradictions. (3) Bart Ehrman, the NT scholar at UNC and the author of several skeptical books. (4) Richard Dawkins, the author of several books including “The Blind Watchmaker,” “The Selfish Gene,” and “The God Delusion." (5) For Christians finding a contradiction in the Bible would have the effect of destroying our faith because the Bible says that Jesus is the author and finisher of our faith [Heb. 12:2] and all Scripture is given by inspiration of God [2 Tim. 3:16]. The apostle Peter said that Jesus has the words of eternal life [John 6:68]; and Jesus Himself said, “If you continue in My Word, . . . . you shall know the truth and the truth shall make you free” (John 8:31-32). If any PART of the Bible were found to be anything other than the truth that would imply that God Himself is NOT TRUE. (6) Hundreds of examples of so-called contradictions exist, but not a single one has ever proved to be a GENUINE contradiction. (7) Hundreds of examples of so-called contradictions exist, but not a single one has ever proved to be a GENUINE contradiction. (8) But now faith is back in public life. (9) Around the time when I was in college I discovered a book that answered about 500 alleged contradictions in the Bible. On every occasion where I have had to consider a cited contradiction I have been able — after some effort — to realize that these supposed contradictions actually have reasonable answers for the truth of what the Bible said. (10) Voddie Baucham says, “The NT is a RELIABLE COLLECTION of historical documents, written by EYEWITNESSES during the lifetime of other eyewitnesses. They report SUPERNATURAL EVENTS that took place in fulfillment of SPECIFIC PROPHESIES, and claim that their writings are DIVINE rather than HUMAN in ORIGIN.” (11) There is simply NO CASE OF PROVEN FRAUD or error in the Bible. Instead, the Bible condemns deceitful practices and dishonest schemes through its teachings (Exod. 20:15; Prov. 11:1; 21:6). (12) “Understanding the Bible” by John Stott. (13) The main THRUST of the biblical message is that God LOVES the VERY REBELS who deserve nothing from His hand but judgment and condemnation.” This is episode 262.