How can the words in these sixty-six books be divine and infallible if they come through people who were human and fallible? This is a question about the inspiration of the Scriptures. Read Inspiration of Scripture by Donald Macleod for more help.
What basis is there for thinking that the accounts of Jesus’ life in the New Testament are historical, rather than mythical or otherwise? In particular, why should we regard the four “gospels” (the New Testament books of Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John) as accounts of real history, rather than mere literary creations?
Why do we consider these particular books to be the ones that should be in the Bible? What about the sorts of questions raised in The DaVinci Code? Typically, these sorts of questions are more concerned with the New Testament “canon,” that is, the collection of New Testament books considered to be the Word of God. As a good resource read The Formation of the Canon of the New Testament by B. B. Warfield (one of the great scholars from old Princeton Seminary). This is a good introduction to a big topic. If you want to dive in a bit deeper, read The Concept and Importance of Canonicity.
Justification is the biblical word for God’s declaration that a sinful person is now “right with” him. Justification has been called “the article by which the Church stands or falls.” In other words, whatever other biblical teachings we may agree or disagree upon, this one is foundational and non-negotiable. It is at the heart of what the Bible calls “the good news.” For a good help read The Importance of Justification by R.C. Sproul.
Sanctification is the biblical word for the lifelong process by which God changes a Christian. This change is not only one of behavior, but of one’s very being. In other words, real change must take place from the inside out. Sadly, many Christians approach sanctification as if it all rests on their own determination and willpower.Gospel-Driven Sanctification by Jerry Bridges offers a wonderful remedy for that (bad) view of the Christian life.
When we think about living the Christian life, and what real personal growth looks like, we probably don’t use words like “mortification” and “vivification.” This may be our loss, since these concepts come straight from the Bible and capture what real change looks like for the Christian. Take a look at what a Puritan named John Owen thought about these realities. Read John Owen and the ‘Normal’ Christian Life by John Hannah.
Could our moral failure (i.e., sin) ever be an advantage to us? John Newton, the author of “Amazing Grace,” said that it could. He claimed that ongoing sin, though wrong, gives us the perfect opportunity to do the very thing we need to do—turn to Jesus and cry out for mercy. The Advantages of Remaining Sin is a pastoral letter written by John Newton. Very encouraging words!!