Thy Word is Truth

by Edward J. Young

Since its first publication in the USA in 1957, Thy Word is Truth has been recognized as the classic popular exposition of the biblical doctrine of inspiration. There are several reasons for the wide and warm acclaim which has been accorded to the author, the late Professor Edward J. Young, of Westminster Theological Seminary, Philadelphia.

Thy Word is Truth explains the importance of the doctrine of biblical inspiration. Without it the reliability of the Bible is in serious doubt, the integrity of Jesus is put in question, and the only final authority men have in matters of faith becomes their own conscience. If we cannot trust what Scripture says about itself, how can we trust what it says about God, about man s need, or about Christ s saving power?

Furthermore, Thy Word is Truth explains why this doctrine has been so fiercely contested. It is precisely because it lies at the heart of Christianity. While it is said that only what we think of Christ really matters, Professor Young urges us to recognize that what we think of him inevitably depends on the reliability of the Bible. If it fails us, we can know nothing for certain about Christ. He has chosen to make himself known through Scripture.

To write such a book as this demands special gifts, and a rare combination of qualifications. E.J. Young possessed these to an unusual degree. He was an outstanding linguist and biblical scholar, and knew the text of the Bible intimately. He understood the doctrinal issues which are at stake. He possessed a lucid mind and pen. He was also willing to rest his own soul on the convictions to which Scripture itself drove him-even when this involved swimming against the tide of the world of scholarship in which he moved with high distinction. His blend of true scholarship with humble commitment to Christ makes this study a reliable introduction to a question which continues to haunt the church at the beginning of the 21st century.

Genres: Theology, Christian, Biblical Studies, Scripture, Christianity, Nonfiction

280 pages, Paperback

First published June 1, 1957

Reviews

[Daniel · Rating 4 out of 5]

In this book, the author provides some thoughts on the Biblical doctrine of inspiration and interacts with numerous objections aimed at this doctrine as well as some modern views on the topic.

I found many sections of this book helpful, including the extent of inspiration (chapter 2), inspiration in relation to the human writers (chapter 3) and the attempts at harmonising various difficulties found within the Bible. What I appreciated most of all though was the author’s commitment to humility before the Scriptures.

A concluding thought regarding the difficulties in the Bible: how does one explain the incredible harmony that is found within the Bible?

[Bill · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is an excellent volume for anyone who is interested in understanding what evangelical Christians mean by terms like "infallibility" and "inerrancy" when discussing the doctrine of the Scriptures. If you have any doubt about whether the Bible is indeed the Word of God, this book will help you dispel that doubt. For those who already believe that the Bible is the Word of God, there is a great deal of good information here that can help you explain your position on the Scripture to others. NOTE: This is not light "coffee table reading." Be prepared to spend some time and careful reflection. A good read but not a quick one!

[Adam Thomas · Rating 4 out of 5]

A clear defence of the Biblical doctrines of Scripture, showing exactly what's at stake, outlining the errors of opposing views, and tackling some of the more difficult issues - "problem passages", apparent contradictions, OT quotes in the NT etc. It's a bit dated now, and somewhat repetitive at points, but it's an important work that's definitely worth reading. I also appreciated Young's reminder in discussing apparent contradictions that: "Whether a perfectly satisfactory solution to the problem can be given or not, we need not resort to the expedient of postulating error." Refreshing to have someone of Young's stature saying that we won't always have the answer, and we don't need to!

[David Griffin · Rating 4 out of 5]

Defends the biblical doctrine of Inerrancy, doesn't shy away from the 'problem texts'. This book's premise is excellent: We should not hold a view on the inspiration of scripture that Jesus and his followers did not take. Only quibble of this book is that can it be tedious in places.

[Michael · Rating 4 out of 5]

Introductory but a classic for a reason.

[Isaac · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 stars. Solid, useful.

[Dane Jöhannsson · Rating 4 out of 5]

A standard on the topic. Though I disagree with Young on preservation and inerrancy vs infallibility, this work is a masterful defense of the primacy, authority and sufficiency of the Bible.

[Jessica]

Recommended by Pastor Bob Eckhardt.

[Stephen P · Rating 5 out of 5]

I highly recommend this book. The author is clearly very educated on the subject of the inspiration of the Bible and writes very authoritatively. However, he writes in a style that a lay reader can understand without having any formal theological training. He clearly explains the authority of the Scriptures as God's infallible revelation to mankind.

[Daniel · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good work in inspiration and inerrancy, though it tended to get a bit repetitious in parts.

[Glenn Hendrickson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Read this book of you want a biblical explanation of the doctrine of inspiration which does not stray into liberalism or over-simplification.