The Sufficiency of Scripture [Paperback]

'They are with 'conversion' and the 'inspiration' of Scripture. Orthodox Christian doctrine affirms that with both of these the Holy Spirit exerts an influence upon the humans involved (see John 3:3-8; Eph 2:1-7; 2 Peter 1:20-21).' pp. 28-29

Weeks intelligently presents the case for the infallibility of God's Word. He holds that 'older distinctions between fundamentalist and modernist, evangelical and liberal, have become obsolete as more subtle distinctions have emerged.' He also adds that 'the person who feels free to question the infallibility of the Bible in matters of science or history, or even ethics, might still desire to be called an evangelical.' To those still bravely holding out, a word of encouragement is directed:

'Holding to a minority position should not indicate to the Christian that his view is incorrect.' p 97

This book's spectrum is based on its foundational structure found in Scripture, and is an important contribution to the truth which the world does not want to hear. Noel Weeks addresses the modern enlightenment notion of 'empiricism', which allows for one's beliefs to go unchallenged. 'However, they find it hard to believe that bias and preconception distort their interpretation of what they see through telescope or microscope. For that belief there is no scriptural warrant, rather the reverse.' p 98 Weeks further questions the approach of academic communities: 'Do we commit the historical anachronism of expecting that a biblical author has to share the assumptions of a modern historian? We have seen that the Bible does not have that view of truth. Are we willing to learn the techniques of biblical historical writing from the text itself, instead of imposing upon that text our own expectations?' p 100

The heat of debates surrounding Genesis, heretics, homosexual clergy and women preachers are delved into. Weeks dispels modern notions and downplays the suggestion that the times Paul lived in were culturally different to ours.

'The great danger to New Testament church structure is pride and the desire for a following (Acts 20:30). To set aside Paul's instructions to Timothy in 1 Tim 3:8, and to ignore the reference to the bishops and deacons at Philippi (Phil 1:1) is to ignore the way the New Testament church structure reflected Christ's concern for the poor. Put simply, the New Testament church organization with its bishops and deacons showed the impact of Christ upon the church. It showed a structure in which Christ's spiritual and physical concern for people was continued.' p 161

For anyone with any questions as to the authority and sufficiency of the Bible, this book is for you. It is well written and comprehensive.

Like;

They, "...'interpret' the New Testament then we are in a scholar's make-believe world." p 146

"Scripture persistently attacks the notion that worth in the true sense is connected to one's position in society." p 147

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