Exam Notes: The Reliability of the Gospels

The General Reliability of the Gospels: An Apologetic Approach

Introduction to the Challenge

When discussing the Gospels, particularly with students and individuals who express skepticism, a common challenge arises from perceived contradictions within these texts. Many people distrust or disbelieve the Gospels, citing these supposed inconsistencies as reasons not to credit them. This often leads to questions about their inherent truthfulness and historical accuracy.

Christian Belief vs. Apologetic Strategy

As Christians, we frequently affirm the doctrines of infallibility or inerrancy of Scripture, asserting that the Bible is God's flawless revelation. While this conviction is fundamental for believers, it often proves ineffective as a starting point when engaging with skeptics. Skeptics typically approach these biblical texts as mere historical documents, scrutinizing them for their factual and historical veracity rather than accepting a theological premise upfront.

Demonstrating General Reliability

From an apologetic standpoint, the more productive approach is to focus on demonstrating the general reliability of the Gospels as historical documents. The central question for skeptics is whether the Gospel authors can be considered good historians. Some critics contend that the writers were not historians at all but rather propagandists or theologians with an agenda, solely aiming to promote their specific viewpoints. Therefore, the strategic objective is to illustrate that the Gospels are reliable historical accounts, a foundation upon which further discussions regarding their divine inspiration can potentially be built.

The Apologetic Distinction

An important strategic distinction in apologetics is recognizing the difference between what Christians believe intrinsically (e.g., inerrancy, infallibility) and where to start when engaging with skeptics. While believing in the Bible's inherent truthfulness is crucial for Christians, the initial engagement with skeptics should seek common ground by addressing their primary concerns about historical reliability. The subsequent discussion will delve into specific methods and evidence that underscore the reliability of the Gospels, providing practical ways to assist friends and others who express doubts.