The Chicago Statement on Biblical Inerrancy is a document that articulates the belief and understanding of biblical inerrancy within evangelical Christianity. It was formulated in 1978 by a group of conservative evangelical scholars and theologians at a conference held in Chicago.
Inerrancy, as defined by the statement, refers to the belief that the Bible, in its original manuscripts, is completely without error in all its teachings. It asserts that the Bible is wholly accurate and reliable in all matters it addresses, whether it be historical, scientific, moral, or theological.
The statement begins by affirming the divine inspiration of the Bible, emphasizing that the authors were guided by the Holy Spirit, and therefore the words they wrote are the very words of God. It goes on to highlight the necessity of interpreting the Bible in light of its literary, cultural, and historical contexts.
Furthermore, the Chicago Statement stresses that the Bible is the supreme authority and final arbiter in matters of faith, life, and doctrine. It argues that the entire Bible, both the Old and New Testaments, must be viewed as inerrant in order for the Christian faith to be safeguarded.
The document also addresses potential objections and criticisms, offering counterarguments to claims that the Bible may contain errors due to its human authorship or alleged discrepancies found within its pages. It asserts that God, in His providence, has preserved the Scriptures throughout history, ensuring their accuracy and trustworthiness.
In summary, the Chicago Statement on Biblical Inerrancy defines biblical inerrancy as the belief that the Bible, in its original writings, is completely without error in all its teachings. It asserts the Bible's divine inspiration, supreme authority, and reliability for matters of faith and practice within the conservative evangelical perspective.
