The Accuracy of God’s Word

Today, at Bible Study, we had a small discussion about prophetic words. These are words given by God directly to people through the vessel of a prophet, a spokesperson of God. Their accuracy level couldn’t be just close. If it was from God, it had to be 100% accurate. There were three different offices spoken of in the Bible - Prophet, Priest, and King. Usually, those called to serve would only operate within one of these offices. As I listened to a program today, I was reminded that David was a king, but he also spoke prophetically. Psalm 22 is classic example. I believe most scholars would agree that this was a foretelling of what would happen on the cross about a thousand years before it happened. So, what are some of the things that make this prophetic. Who is the focus? It refers to the Holy One, who we know as Jesus. As we dig further into Psalm 22, one might argue that Jesus could duplicate what was written to fulfill it rather than it being an actual prophetic truth. I give you verse 16, which says, “They have pierced my hands and feet”. This is significant, because in King David’s day when this Psalm was written, crucifixion was unheard of. They punished people through stoning. In other words, David speaks of a death that wasn’t even invented yet. Also, in verse 14 it speaks of his bones being out of joint... another outcome of a crucifixion. These verses speak of God’s truth and knowledge of past, present, and future. Yet another thing that is outside of Jesus’ control to re-enact that was prophesied is the guards casting lots for Jesus’ clothing. Then there are recorded words of the crowds that mocked Him and hurled insults at Him. It is hard to read Psalm 22 and then read the account of the crucifixion and not see the fulfillment. Also, if Jesus was trying to “make” the prophesies come true, who would willingly suffer an excruciating death on the cross and also remember the words to speak that fulfills these prophesies. I don’t know about you, but if I accidentally hit my finger with a hammer, I am not going to remember the right words to say. What is on my heart is what comes out... good or bad. Knowing then that God’s word is true, we need to faithfully learn and follow His leading. Father, protect our hearts and minds from all the attacks of the Devil, the world, and our own sinful nature that try to cause doubt. Amen