The Doctrine of Infallibility

The belief that God's Word will not fail in its purpose and so is totally reliable and trustworthy. It shall accomplish the purpose for which it was sent (Isa 55:11). God speaks and fulfills His promise, not like man whose word is often unreliable and so makes him into a liar (Num 23:19).

The Nature of Infallibility

Only God and His Word are infallible, the quality of being impossible of failure. Whatever any human says must be compared to Scripture for it alone is to be the standard for teaching and practice (Act 17:11). The Bible claims to be infallible and true because this is the nature and perfection of God's character (2 Sam 22:31; Ps 12:6, 19:7; Prov 30:5; Mt 5:48; Jn 17:3,17; 2 Pet 1:20-21).

The Bible does not teach that the apostles were infallible, apart from what was written by them and incorporated into Scripture. What originates with man may fail to come to pass but we can't stop what is 'of God' (Act 5:38-39).

God's Unchangeable Character

Immutability describes God's unchangeableness (Mal 3:6; Jas 1:17). Because God does not change, His Word remains forever reliable and His promises cannot fail. The infallibility of Scripture flows directly from the immutability of its divine Author.

Reflection and Application:

• How does the infallibility of God's Word impact your daily trust in His promises?
• In what ways can you compare human teachings against Scripture as the ultimate standard?
• How does understanding God's immutability strengthen your confidence in His Word?
• What steps can you take to be more open and submissive to the Spirit's guidance in interpreting Scripture?

See also: Bible, error, failure, immutable, inerrancy, reliable, trustworthy, truth.