What does the Bible say about Scripture? This question opens the door to understanding why Scripture exists, how it is meant to be used, and where it comes from. This topic is the first in a broader series that explores related themes such as interpreting Scripture, studying it, memorizing it, misinterpreting it, and even twisting or quoting it incorrectly.
In this article, the focus is on the purpose of Scripture, its divine source, how it is preserved, and whether Scripture must be ancient or can exist in modern times. We will also look at what the Bible teaches about altering Scripture and the consequences of rejecting it.
Scripture as the Word of God
The Bible establishes early on that Scripture originates directly from God:
“And God spake all these words, saying…” (Exodus 20:1)
This introduction to the Ten Commandments sets a pattern for all Scripture: God speaks, and His words are recorded. Scripture is not merely human opinion; it is the Word of God.
How We Receive the Word of God
Throughout the Bible, God communicates His word through prophets:
“But the word of God came unto Shemaiah the man of God, saying…” (1 Kings 12:22)
“Then came the word of the Lord unto Isaiah, saying…” (Isaiah 38:4)
In Exodus, this pattern becomes even clearer:
“And Moses wrote all the words of the Lord.” (Exodus 24:4)
God reveals His word to prophets, and those prophets faithfully record it for future generations.
Prophets Are Commanded to Write Scripture
The act of recording revelation is not optional—it is part of a prophet’s calling:
“Write the things which thou hast seen, and the things which are, and the things which shall be hereafter.” (Revelation 1:19)
Scripture exists because prophets were commanded by God to write what they received by revelation.
The Source and Purity of Scripture
The Bible teaches that Scripture comes directly from God:
“I will raise them up a Prophet… and will put my words in his mouth.” (Deuteronomy 18:18)
When Scripture is preserved faithfully, it can be trusted:
“The words of the Lord are pure words: as silver tried in a furnace of earth, purified seven times.” (Psalm 12:6)
This imagery teaches that God’s word is refined, dependable, and free from impurity when it remains true to its source.
The Unchanging Nature of God’s Word
Scripture testifies that God’s word endures forever:
“The grass withereth, the flower fadeth: but the word of our God shall stand for ever.” (Isaiah 40:8)
God’s revelations are not temporary or unreliable. When God speaks, His word will be fulfilled:
“I am the Lord: I will speak, and the word that I shall speak shall come to pass.” (Ezekiel 12:25)
A Warning About How We Treat Scripture
The Bible also warns of serious consequences for rejecting God’s word:
“Because he hath despised the word of the Lord… that soul shall utterly be cut off.” (Numbers 15:31)
There have been times when Scripture was valued highly and times when it was neglected:
“The word of the Lord was precious in those days; there was no open vision.” (1 Samuel 3:1)
When people reject Scripture, spiritual famine follows:
“I will send a famine in the land… of hearing the words of the Lord.” (Amos 8:11–12)
Knowledge Without Scripture Is Incomplete
Human knowledge alone is not enough:
“They have rejected the word of the Lord; and what wisdom is in them?” (Jeremiah 8:9)
Scripture provides divine wisdom that cannot be replaced by information or intellect alone.
How Jesus Spoke About Scripture
In the New Testament, Jesus Himself taught from the Scriptures:
“Did not our heart burn within us… while he opened to us the scriptures?” (Luke 24:32)
Even after His resurrection, Jesus used Scripture to teach, explain truth, and strengthen faith.
How Scripture Was Recorded Anciently
Ezekiel describes how sacred records were kept:
“Take thee one stick, and write upon it, For Judah… then take another stick, and write upon it, For Joseph.” (Ezekiel 37:15–16)
These “sticks” refer to written records, often scrolls. The stick of Judah represents the biblical record preserved by the Jews.
The Joining of Sacred Records
Ezekiel continues with a powerful prophecy:
“And join them one to another into one stick; and they shall become one in thine hand.” (Ezekiel 37:17)
This prophecy speaks of multiple scriptural records coming together to testify of truth.
Preserving Records for Future Generations
The importance of preserving Scripture is emphasized repeatedly:
“It is wisdom in God that we should obtain these records… that we may preserve them unto our children.” (1 Nephi 3:19)
Scripture preserves faith, doctrine, language, history, and identity.
God Commands That Records Be Kept Sacred
God’s concern for Scripture extends across generations:
“Write the things which thou hast seen… and they were forbidden to come unto the children of men until after Christ.” (Ether 4:1)
Some records were preserved for specific times, according to God’s wisdom and plan.
Why Scripture Is a Blessing
Scripture exists because God calls prophets, reveals His word, and ensures those words are preserved. Through Scripture, we can learn truth, understand God’s plan, and grow closer to Him.
The Bible teaches not only that Scripture is sacred, but that it must be respected, preserved, studied, and lived. Understanding what the Bible says about Scripture helps us better appreciate its role in our lives and recognize it as one of God’s greatest gifts to humanity.
