22. The Divine Inspiration of Scripture

The doctrine of the Divine Inspiration of Scripture asserts that the Bible is not merely a human creation but is inspired by God. This means that the Bible, as it was written by human authors, was divinely guided and influenced by God’s Spirit to communicate His will and truth to humanity. The Bible is thus considered the authoritative, inerrant, and infallible Word of God. The inspiration of Scripture is foundational to Christian belief and impacts how believers approach, interpret, and apply the Bible.

Scriptures Supporting the Doctrine of Divine Inspiration:

2 Timothy 3:16 (KJV)
“All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness.”
Interpretation: This verse directly affirms that all scripture is divinely inspired. The phrase “given by inspiration of God” indicates that the scriptures are not the product of human imagination but of God’s influence.
2 Peter 1:21 (KJV)
“For the prophecy came not in old time by the will of man: but holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost.”
Interpretation: This passage clarifies that the prophecies and writings in the Bible did not originate from human desire or intention but were spoken by “holy men of God” under the direct guidance of the Holy Spirit.
1 Peter 1:10-11 (KJV)
“Of which salvation the prophets have enquired and searched diligently, who prophesied of the grace that should come unto you: Searching what, or what manner of time the Spirit of Christ which was in them did signify, when it testified beforehand the sufferings of Christ, and the glory that should follow.”
Interpretation: The prophets did not act on their own, but they were guided by the Spirit of Christ to write about the coming salvation, showing the divine inspiration of their writings.
Matthew 4:4 (KJV)
“But he answered and said, It is written, Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God.”
Interpretation: Jesus affirms that the words of Scripture are the words of God, emphasizing the divine origin of the Scriptures.
Luke 24:44 (KJV)
“And he said unto them, These are the words which I spake unto you, while I was yet with you, that all things must be fulfilled, which were written in the law of Moses, and in the prophets, and in the psalms, concerning me.”
Interpretation: Jesus underscores that the Scriptures, including the Law, the Prophets, and the Psalms, all testify to Him, highlighting their divine authority.
John 10:35 (KJV)
“If he called them gods, unto whom the word of God came, and the scripture cannot be broken.”
Interpretation: Jesus acknowledges the unbreakable nature of Scripture, asserting its divine origin and authority.
Romans 15:4 (KJV)
“For whatsoever things were written aforetime were written for our learning, that we through patience and comfort of the scriptures might have hope.”
Interpretation: Paul affirms the enduring value of Scripture, suggesting that it is divinely inspired for the purposes of teaching, comfort, and hope.
Hebrews 4:12 (KJV)
“For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any twoedged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.”
Interpretation: The powerful, life-changing impact of God’s Word highlights its divine, supernatural origin.

Scriptures Against the Doctrine of Divine Inspiration:

Though the doctrine of the divine inspiration of Scripture is widely accepted within Christianity, certain groups or theological positions have raised questions about the extent or nature of this inspiration. Here are some scriptures or interpretations sometimes cited in contrast:

Mark 7:13 (KJV)
“Making the word of God of none effect through your tradition, which ye have delivered: and many such like things do ye.”
Interpretation: Some argue that human traditions can obscure or nullify the effectiveness of Scripture, which may suggest that human error can corrupt the divine inspiration.
Matthew 15:3 (KJV)
“But he answered and said unto them, Why do ye also transgress the commandment of God by your tradition?”
Interpretation: This verse may be seen as suggesting that human traditions can contradict God’s commandments, raising the possibility of human influence corrupting the Scriptures.
2 Corinthians 3:6 (KJV)
“Who also hath made us able ministers of the new testament; not of the letter, but of the spirit; for the letter killeth, but the spirit giveth life.”
Interpretation: Some argue that the letter of Scripture (the written word) may be insufficient without the Spirit, implying that mere textual inspiration is not enough without the living, active presence of God.
1 Corinthians 13:9-10 (KJV)
“For we know in part, and we prophesy in part. But when that which is perfect is come, then that which is in part shall be done away.”
Interpretation: This passage may suggest that not all knowledge is revealed through Scripture alone, hinting at a limitation of divine inspiration in certain contexts.
2 Corinthians 4:7 (KJV)
“But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellency of the power may be of God, and not of us.”
Interpretation: This verse emphasizes the fragility and imperfection of human vessels, suggesting that the human element in Scripture might limit the full expression of divine inspiration.
Hebrews 9:1-9 (KJV)
“Then verily the first covenant had also ordinances of divine service, and a worldly sanctuary… which was a figure for the time then present.”
Interpretation: Some argue that not all Scriptures may directly reflect God’s will but were shaped by historical and cultural contexts, potentially reducing their divinely inspired nature.
John 21:25 (KJV)
“And there are also many other things which Jesus did, the which, if they should be written every one, I suppose that even the world itself could not contain the books that should be written.”
Interpretation: This verse may imply that not everything Jesus did or said was recorded, suggesting that Scripture may not be the sole expression of divine truth.
1 Thessalonians 5:20-21 (KJV)
“Despise not prophesyings. Prove all things; hold fast that which is good.”
Interpretation: While affirming prophecy, this verse implies that not all prophetic words may be inspired or trustworthy, suggesting human error might affect the message.

Debates on the Doctrine of Divine Inspiration in the Hebrew, Greek, and Christian Translations of Scripture

The translation and interpretation of the Bible’s original languages—Hebrew, Greek, and Aramaic—are at the heart of theological debates surrounding the doctrine of divine inspiration. Questions surrounding the accuracy and reliability of these translations impact our understanding of God’s Word. The challenge of translating ancient texts with full fidelity to their original meaning is one of the ongoing issues for translators, scholars, and theologians. Key issues in the translation of the Hebrew Old Testament (Tanakh), the Greek New Testament, and Christian translations (such as the King James Version) are the focus of these debates.

1. The Hebrew Scriptures (Tanakh)

The Old Testament was originally written primarily in Hebrew, with some parts in Aramaic (especially in parts of Daniel and Ezra). The most commonly referenced text for Hebrew Scripture is the Masoretic Text (MT), which was finalized around the 10th century AD by Jewish scholars known as the Masoretes. However, other ancient versions of the Hebrew Scriptures, such as the Septuagint (LXX) (a Greek translation of the Hebrew Scriptures), and the Dead Sea Scrolls (DSS), have introduced variations in wording and meaning, raising debates about which is more authoritative.

Key Scriptures and Issues with Translation:

Genesis 1:1-2 (KJV)
“In the beginning God created the heaven and the earth. And the earth was without form, and void; and darkness was upon the face of the deep. And the Spirit of God moved upon the face of the waters.”
Translation Issues: The phrase “without form and void” (Hebrew tohu wa-bohu) is a debated translation. Some modern scholars argue that the term implies a state of chaos, but this interpretation could be influenced by later theological readings.
Isaiah 7:14 (KJV)
“Therefore the Lord himself shall give you a sign; Behold, a virgin shall conceive, and bear a son, and shall call his name Immanuel.”
Translation Issues: The word “virgin” (almah) in Hebrew is often debated. The Septuagint translated it as parthenos (Greek for virgin), which has a more specific meaning than the Hebrew almah (which can simply mean “young woman”). This discrepancy has led to differing views on whether this prophecy points to a miraculous virgin birth.
Psalm 22:16 (KJV)
“For dogs have compassed me: the assembly of the wicked have inclosed me: they pierced my hands and my feet.”
Translation Issues: The Hebrew verb ka’ari (“they pierced”) is debated. Some translations render it as “like a lion” rather than “pierced,” raising questions about the prophetic significance of this verse, particularly in Christian theology as it points to the crucifixion.
Exodus 3:14 (KJV)
“And God said unto Moses, I AM THAT I AM: and he said, Thus shalt thou say unto the children of Israel, I AM hath sent me unto you.”
Translation Issues: The phrase “I AM THAT I AM” is a translation of the Hebrew Ehyeh asher Ehyeh. Some scholars suggest that this could be translated as “I will be who I will be,” indicating God’s self-existence. This is important because it touches on the divine name and identity.

2. The Greek Scriptures (New Testament)

The New Testament was written in Greek, specifically Koine Greek, which was the common language of the Eastern Mediterranean during the time of Christ. While the original Greek manuscripts (called Textus Receptus or Byzantine Text) were widespread in the early centuries, there are various early manuscripts of the New Testament, with differences in readings. The Critical Text (a more modern text based on earlier manuscripts like the Codex Sinaiticus and Codex Vaticanus) is typically used in modern translations.

Key Scriptures and Issues with Translation:

John 1:1 (KJV)
“In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.”
Translation Issues: The Greek term logos (translated as “Word”) raises theological debates. Some argue that logos refers to Christ as the divine expression or wisdom of God. The interpretation of logos plays a critical role in the doctrine of the Trinity and the nature of Christ.
Matthew 28:19 (KJV)
“Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost.”
Translation Issues: The phrase in the name of has been debated. Some argue that the construction in Greek emphasizes the singular authority of the Trinity, while others suggest that early Christian baptisms were performed using the name of Jesus alone, based on early Christian practice (cf. Acts 2:38).
Luke 22:19 (KJV)
“And he took bread, and gave thanks, and brake it, and gave unto them, saying, This is my body which is given for you: this do in remembrance of me.”
Translation Issues: The Greek phrase touto estin to soma mou (“this is my body”) has been the source of debates about the nature of the Eucharist. Roman Catholic, Orthodox, and some Protestant traditions interpret it as indicating the actual body of Christ, while others, such as Baptists, see it as symbolic.
Romans 8:16 (KJV)
“The Spirit itself beareth witness with our spirit, that we are the children of God.”
Translation Issues: The Greek autos (“itself”) is neuter, yet the Holy Spirit is often referred to with masculine pronouns. This discrepancy leads to debates over whether the Holy Spirit is truly a person or an impersonal force.
Matthew 16:18 (KJV)
“And I say also unto thee, That thou art Peter, and upon this rock I will build my church; and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it.”
Translation Issues: The Greek word petros (“Peter”) and petra (“rock”) are gendered, and some argue that the distinction is crucial for interpreting the passage. The Catholic interpretation views Peter as the foundational rock, while others see it as referring to Peter’s confession of faith.
2 Peter 1:21 (KJV)
“For the prophecy came not in old time by the will of man: but holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost.”
Translation Issues: The Greek word pheromenoi (“moved”) suggests being carried along by the Holy Spirit. This reinforces the view of divine inspiration but also raises questions about the level of human involvement and freedom in writing.
1 John 5:7-8 (KJV)
“For there are three that bear record in heaven, the Father, the Word, and the Holy Ghost: and these three are one. And there are three that bear witness in earth, the spirit, and the water, and the blood: and these three agree in one.”
Translation Issues: These verses are not found in the earliest Greek manuscripts and are believed to be a later addition (known as the Comma Johanneum). This poses significant challenges to Trinitarian interpretations based on these verses.

3. The Christian Translations: The King James Version (KJV)

The King James Version (KJV), completed in 1611, has long been considered a cornerstone of Christian English translations. The KJV was based primarily on the Textus Receptus, a Greek manuscript tradition, and the Masoretic Text for the Old Testament. However, the development of more ancient manuscripts and advancements in textual criticism have raised questions about the accuracy of the KJV in some areas.

Key Translation Issues in the KJV:

Revelation 22:18-19 (KJV)
“For I testify unto every man that heareth the words of the prophecy of this book, If any man shall add unto these things, God shall add unto him the plagues that are written in this book: And if any man shall take away from the words of the book of this prophecy, God shall take away his part out of the book of life…”
Translation Issues: The KJV’s translation of this passage has been interpreted as a warning about tampering with Scripture. Some critics argue that it reflects a more ecclesiastical stance that could be influenced by theological concerns of the time, rather than purely textual preservation.
Acts 12:4 (KJV)
“And when he had apprehended him, he put him in prison, and delivered him to four quaternions of soldiers to keep him…”
Translation Issues: The term “quaternions” (four squads) is an uncommon word in English and can confuse modern readers. It was more clearly understood in the KJV’s era but has caused issues in contemporary translations.

Summary of Translation Issues and Debate

The translations of the Hebrew, Greek, and Christian Scriptures are fraught with both textual and theological debates. Key issues include the accuracy of the Masoretic Text versus the Septuagint, the nuances of Greek words like logos and parthenos, and the role of later additions in manuscripts such as the Comma Johanneum in 1 John 5:7-8. Furthermore, while the KJV holds a revered place in Christian tradition, its reliance on the Textus Receptus has come under scrutiny with the discovery of older manuscripts that offer alternative readings. The challenge of faithfully conveying the original meaning of the ancient texts while making them accessible to modern readers remains a critical issue in biblical scholarship.

Denominational Views on the Doctrine of the Divine Inspiration of Scripture and Associated Translation Debates

1. Roman Catholic Church:

View:

The Catholic Church believes that Scripture is divinely inspired and authoritative but asserts that Sacred Tradition and the Magisterium (the teaching authority of the Church) play an essential role in interpreting Scripture. They hold that the Church preserves the truth of divine revelation, and that Scripture cannot be understood in isolation from the tradition of the Church.

Debates:

For:
- Matthew 16:18 (KJV)
  “And I say also unto thee, That thou art Peter, and upon this rock I will build my church; and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it.”
  Interpretation: Catholics interpret this passage as establishing Peter as the foundational figure of the Church. The word petra (Greek: πέτρα, “rock”) is seen as referring to Peter himself, and this is the basis for the Catholic understanding of apostolic succession.
- Greek Word Use: Petra vs. Petros: The word petra (feminine) means “rock,” and the word petros (masculine) means “stone” or “rock,” but in this context, Catholics argue that the difference in gender signifies a symbolic use to show Peter as the foundation of the Church. However, the debate over whether this indicates a direct reference to Peter or his confession of faith is central in discussions.
Against:
- 1 Timothy 3:15 (KJV)
  “But if I tarry long, that thou mayest know how thou oughtest to behave thyself in the house of God, which is the church of the living God, the pillar and ground of the truth.”
  Interpretation: Some Protestants argue that this verse indicates that the Church, not Peter personally, is the “pillar and ground of the truth,” challenging the Catholic interpretation of Matthew 16:18.

2. Eastern Orthodox Church:

View:

The Eastern Orthodox Church agrees with the Catholic stance on the divine inspiration of Scripture but places strong emphasis on Sacred Tradition. They believe that the interpretation of Scripture is the task of the Church, which has preserved the truth passed down from the apostles.

Debates:

For:
- 2 Timothy 3:16 (KJV)
  “All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness.”
  Interpretation: Orthodox theology holds that Scripture is divinely inspired and authoritative. The word theopneustos (Greek: θεόπνευστος, “God-breathed”) is key, indicating that the Bible comes directly from God’s breath, a central belief in the inspiration of Scripture.
Against:
- Revelation 22:18-19 (KJV)
  “For I testify unto every man that heareth the words of the prophecy of this book, If any man shall add unto these things, God shall add unto him the plagues that are written in this book…”
  Interpretation: Some argue that the inclusion of this warning against “adding” or “removing” from the Scriptures limits interpretation and suggests a closed canon, which can be seen as contrary to the Eastern Orthodox practice of valuing continuous interpretation and tradition.

3. Evangelical:

View:

Evangelicals hold to the inerrancy and infallibility of Scripture. They believe the Bible is fully inspired by God and authoritative in all matters of faith and practice.

Debates:

For:
- 2 Peter 1:21 (KJV)
  “For the prophecy came not in old time by the will of man: but holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost.”
  Interpretation: Evangelicals emphasize the word phero (Greek: φέρω, “moved” or “borne along”) here, implying divine guidance of the human authors of Scripture. It indicates that the human writers were under the full influence of the Holy Spirit while maintaining the truth of God.
Against:
- 1 Corinthians 13:9-10 (KJV)
  “For we know in part, and we prophesy in part. But when that which is perfect is come, then that which is in part shall be done away.”
  Interpretation: Some argue that this suggests incomplete revelation, indicating that the fullness of divine truth has not yet been revealed or that Scripture might be less than fully perfect in terms of human understanding.

4. Protestant (General):

View:

General Protestant belief is aligned with the idea of Scripture being divinely inspired, authoritative, and the final authority in all matters of faith. However, views on inerrancy vary.

Debates:

For:
- Psalm 119:105 (KJV)
  “Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path.”
  Interpretation: This verse is often used to support the idea that Scripture provides clear guidance, and its divine inspiration is seen in the clarity and direction it offers for Christian life.
Against:
- 2 Corinthians 3:6 (KJV)
  “Who also hath made us able ministers of the new testament; not of the letter, but of the spirit; for the letter killeth, but the spirit giveth life.”
  Interpretation: Some argue that this verse highlights the insufficiency of the “letter” of the law and that Scripture alone, without the guiding Spirit, cannot fully impart life. It suggests that a literal interpretation of Scripture might miss the deeper spiritual truths it intends.

5. Baptist (Southern Baptist, Independent Baptist, etc.):

View:

Baptists affirm the divine inspiration and inerrancy of Scripture, holding that the Bible is fully inspired and authoritative. They strongly emphasize a literal interpretation of the Bible.

Debates:

For:
- Matthew 5:18 (KJV)
  “For verily I say unto you, Till heaven and earth pass, one jot or one tittle shall in no wise pass from the law, till all be fulfilled.”
  Interpretation: The word jot (iota, Greek: ἰῶτα) refers to the smallest letter in the Hebrew alphabet, and tittle refers to a tiny mark used in Hebrew to differentiate similar letters. This verse highlights the precise and complete nature of God’s Word.
Against:
- Romans 10:4 (KJV)
  “For Christ is the end of the law for righteousness to every one that believeth.”
  Interpretation: Some Baptists emphasize that this verse suggests that Christ has fulfilled the Law, indicating that while Scripture is inspired, the law itself is no longer binding, and thus, some aspects of the Old Testament may be seen as non-applicable to modern Christian life.

6. Methodist (United Methodist, AME, etc.):

View:

Methodists accept the divine inspiration of Scripture, but they interpret it in conjunction with reason, tradition, and experience, which together guide Christian life and belief.

Debates:

For:
- 2 Timothy 3:16 (KJV)
  “All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness.”
  Interpretation: The word theopneustos (Greek: θεόπνευστος, “God-breathed”) is key to their belief that Scripture is divinely inspired and authoritative, but the interpretative process involves reason and experience.
Against:
- Romans 2:15 (KJV)
  “Which shew the work of the law written in their hearts, their conscience also bearing witness…”
  Interpretation: This passage is used by some Methodists to suggest that God’s revelation is not limited to Scripture alone but is also written in the hearts of all people, suggesting a broader understanding of divine truth beyond the Bible.

7. Lutheran (Missouri Synod, ELCA, etc.):

View:

Lutherans believe in the full divine inspiration of Scripture, but they place special emphasis on the Gospel and the message of salvation through Christ. They view Scripture as a means of grace.

Debates:

For:
- John 10:35 (KJV)
  “If he called them gods, unto whom the word of God came, and the scripture cannot be broken.”
  Interpretation: The word grapho (Greek: γράφω, “to write”) in this context underscores the authority of Scripture and its unbreakable nature.
Against:
- Hebrews 9:10 (KJV)
  “Which stood only in meats and drinks, and divers washings, and carnal ordinances, imposed on them until the time of reformation.”
  Interpretation: Some Lutherans argue that the ceremonial aspects of the Old Testament (such as rituals and laws) were not intended to be binding forever, suggesting a limitation in the applicability of some Scripture.

8. Pentecostal (Assemblies of God, UPCI, etc.):

View:

Pentecostals affirm the divine inspiration of Scripture but emphasize the active work of the Holy Spirit in interpreting and applying Scripture to the believer’s life.

Debates:

For:
- 2 Peter 1:21 (KJV)
  “For the prophecy came not in old time by the will of man: but holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost.”
  Interpretation: The word phero (Greek: φέρω, “moved”) is central to Pentecostal theology, emphasizing that the Holy Spirit was the active agent guiding the authors of Scripture.
Against:
- John 16:13 (KJV)
  “Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth…”
  Interpretation: Some Pentecostals interpret this verse to mean that the Holy Spirit continues to guide the Church and individual believers, suggesting that direct guidance of the Spirit can supplement the written Word.

9. Jehovah’s Witnesses:

View:

Jehovah’s Witnesses believe the Bible is inspired but emphasize the New World Translation (NWT), a translation they believe to be more accurate than traditional versions, particularly regarding Christ’s divinity.

Debates:

For:
- John 1:1 (KJV)
  “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.”
  Interpretation: Jehovah’s Witnesses argue that theos (Greek: θεός, “God”) in this passage should be translated as “a god,” rather than “God,” denying the full divinity of Christ.
Against:
- Colossians 2:9 (KJV)
  “For in him dwelleth all the fullness of the Godhead bodily.”
  Interpretation: This verse affirms the full divinity of Christ, contradicting the Jehovah’s Witness interpretation of John 1:1.

10. Mormonism (LDS Church):

View:

Mormonism asserts that the Bible is divinely inspired but also holds that the Book of Mormon is another testament of Jesus Christ. They believe in continuing revelation through living prophets.

Debates:

For:
- John 10:16 (KJV)
  “And other sheep I have, which are not of this fold…”
  Interpretation: Mormons believe this refers to the Native Americans, whom they believe were part of the Lost Tribes of Israel. This supports their claim that the Book of Mormon is a true record.
Against:
- Revelation 22:18-19 (KJV)
  “For I testify unto every man that heareth the words of the prophecy of this book…”
  Interpretation: The warning against adding or taking away from the Scriptures is used to argue against the validity of the Book of Mormon as an addition to the Bible.

11. Seventh-day Adventist:

View:

Adventists believe in the divine inspiration of Scripture and hold that the Bible is the ultimate authority. They emphasize prophecy, particularly regarding the Second Coming of Christ.

Debates:

For:
- Revelation 14:12 (KJV)
  “Here is the patience of the saints: here are they that keep the commandments of God, and the faith of Jesus.”
  Interpretation: This verse is used to argue for the continuing authority of the Ten Commandments and their role in the believer’s life.
Against:
- Romans 3:28 (KJV)
  “Therefore we conclude that a man is justified by faith without the deeds of the law.”
  Interpretation: Some Adventists debate the role of the law in salvation, highlighting that salvation is by faith alone rather than by works of the law.

Summary:

The doctrine of the divine inspiration of Scripture is affirmed by all denominations, but their interpretations of specific texts and their understanding of translation issues, particularly with regard to the Hebrew, Greek, and Christian Scriptures, vary greatly. Key Greek and Hebrew words such as theopneustos (“God-breathed”), logos (“Word”), petra (“rock”), and phero (“moved”) play pivotal roles in shaping theological views. Translation differences, like those in the use of petros and petra or logos, illustrate the debates over how Scripture should be understood and applied across different Christian traditions.

Conclusion:

The doctrine of the divine inspiration of Scripture is widely affirmed across Christian denominations, but the interpretation and understanding of Scripture vary depending on theological perspectives and historical contexts. While all Christian groups acknowledge the divine inspiration of the Bible, the weight given to tradition, the role of the Church, and the interpretation of specific key Scriptures diverge. This divergence influences the doctrinal formulations on authority, canon, and the application of the Scriptures in daily Christian life. Issues such as the proper translation of Greek and Hebrew words, and the relationship between Scripture and tradition, remain crucial points of debate in each tradition, shaping how these groups engage with the Bible.

Summary Table for Denominations’ Views on the Divine Inspiration of Scripture

Denomination	View	Scripture Basis (For)	Argument Against	Scripture Basis (Against)
Roman Catholic Church	Scripture is divinely inspired but needs interpretation by the Church.	2 Timothy 3:16 (KJV): “All scripture is given by inspiration of God…”	The Bible alone is not sufficient for full interpretation.	2 Peter 1:20-21 (KJV): “No prophecy of the scripture is of any private interpretation…”
Eastern Orthodox Church	Scripture is divinely inspired but interpreted through tradition.	2 Timothy 3:16 (KJV): “All scripture is given by inspiration of God…”	The Bible must be interpreted through the Church’s Tradition.	1 Peter 1:10-11 (KJV): “Of which salvation the prophets have inquired…”
Evangelical	Scripture is inerrant, inspired, and the final authority in all matters.	2 Peter 1:21 (KJV): “For the prophecy came not in old time by the will of man…”	Scripture can be misinterpreted without the right guidance of the Spirit.	1 Corinthians 13:9-10 (KJV): “For we know in part, and we prophesy in part…”
Protestant (General)	Scripture is divinely inspired, authoritative, and sufficient.	Psalm 119:105 (KJV): “Thy word is a lamp unto my feet…”	Literal interpretation can miss spiritual depth.	2 Corinthians 3:6 (KJV): “For the letter killeth, but the spirit giveth life.”
Baptist	Scripture is divinely inspired, inerrant, and authoritative.	Matthew 5:18 (KJV): “Till heaven and earth pass, one jot or one tittle…”	Overemphasis on law neglects the Gospel’s grace.	Romans 10:4 (KJV): “For Christ is the end of the law for righteousness…”
Methodist	Scripture is divinely inspired but interpreted with reason and tradition.	2 Timothy 3:16 (KJV): “All scripture is given by inspiration of God…”	The role of experience and reason in interpreting Scripture.	Romans 2:15 (KJV): “Which shew the work of the law written in their hearts…”
Lutheran	Scripture is divinely inspired, but the focus is on the Gospel.	John 10:35 (KJV): “And the scripture cannot be broken.”	Some Scripture is not meant to be universally applicable (e.g., ceremonial laws).	Hebrews 9:10 (KJV): “Which stood only in meats and drinks, and divers washings…”
Pentecostal	Scripture is divinely inspired and active through the Holy Spirit.	2 Peter 1:21 (KJV): “For the prophecy came not in old time by the will of man…”	Emphasis on the Spirit might bypass the need for a strict Scriptural foundation.	John 16:13 (KJV): “Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth, is come…”
Jehovah’s Witnesses	Scripture is divinely inspired, but translations like the NWT are more accurate.	John 1:1 (KJV): “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God…”	The traditional translation of John 1:1 affirms Christ’s divinity, which they reject.	Colossians 2:9 (KJV): “For in him dwelleth all the fullness of the Godhead bodily.”
Mormonism (LDS)	Scripture is divinely inspired, but additional revelations (Book of Mormon) are necessary.	John 10:16 (KJV): “And other sheep I have, which are not of this fold…”	Revelation in Scripture is closed, adding new books is problematic.	Revelation 22:18-19 (KJV): “For I testify unto every man that heareth the words of the prophecy of this book…”
Seventh-day Adventist	Scripture is divinely inspired, focusing on prophetic interpretation.	Revelation 14:12 (KJV): “Here are they that keep the commandments of God…”	Overemphasis on law leads to legalism.	Romans 3:28 (KJV): “Therefore we conclude that a man is justified by faith without the deeds of the law.”

Key Insights:

Translation Debates: The key Greek and Hebrew words like theopneustos (“God-breathed”), logos (“Word”), petra (“rock”), and phero (“moved”) heavily influence how different denominations understand the inspiration of Scripture. These words are often used to support or challenge positions on the authority and interpretation of the Bible.
Role of Tradition vs. Scripture: Denominations like the Roman Catholic Church and Eastern Orthodox Church emphasize the role of Tradition and the Magisterium in interpreting Scripture, while Evangelicals and Baptists lean towards Sola Scriptura, the belief that Scripture alone is sufficient for faith and practice.
Authority and Inerrancy: The authority of Scripture is affirmed by all groups, but views on inerrancy differ. Evangelicals, Baptists, and Pentecostals typically hold to a doctrine of inerrancy, while groups like Methodists and Lutherans allow for more nuanced interpretations.

This table and the outlined views reveal the diversity in understanding the divine inspiration of Scripture, each emphasizing different aspects based on their theological traditions, historical context, and scriptural interpretation.