What They Don’t Tell You About Bible Contradictions – Interview with Darrell Bock and Charlie Styles

Do the Gospels contradict each other? What about the seeming theological difference between writers such as Paul and James? In this thought-provoking discussion, Dr. Darrell Bock, Senior Research Professor at Dallas Theological Seminary, tackles common challenges about alleged contradictions in the Bible. From Jesus’ words on the cross to the differing resurrection accounts, Darrell Bock and Charlie Styles explore why difference does not always mean contradiction—and how the Bible’s diverse perspectives actually strengthen its credibility. Key points of this video are:

Multiple Gospels Provide a Richer Picture: The Gospels offer different perspectives, much like a quadraphonic sound system. They give a fuller and more nuanced portrayal of Jesus, reflecting varied emphases and details.
 

Alleged Contradictions: Dr. Bock addresses concerns about contradictions in the Bible. He emphasises that differences in detail or style among authors do not necessarily equal contradictions but often reflect their unique purposes and contexts.

Jesus on the Cross: Mark portrays a troubled Jesus (Psalm 22:1), while Luke shows a trusting Jesus (Psalm 31:5). These accounts complement each other, showing a progression from tension to trust during the crucifixion. 

Disciples’ Post-Resurrection Instructions: Disciples are told to stay in Jerusalem in one account and go to Galilee in another. This reflects their transition from being pilgrims to establishing their base in Jerusalem, with appearances in both locations. 

Faith and Works: Paul focuses on justification by faith (salvation’s starting point), while James emphasizes that genuine faith produces works (the fruit of faith). These are complementary, addressing different aspects of salvation. 

Apparent Contradictions Enhance Understanding: Studying differences helps readers understand the Bible’s depth, context, and varied perspectives. Contradictions can encourage deeper engagement with the text, leading to a richer understanding of its message.

Accuracy vs. Precision: The Bible can be accurate without being overly precise. Differences in detail don’t undermine its truth but reflect the authors’ intent and audience.

Differences in Accounts: Examples like the fig tree withering and the voice at Jesus’s baptism demonstrate how the Bible’s authors emphasize different aspects of the same events. For instance:

• The fig tree either withered immediately or was observed withered the next day, both indicating it happened quickly. 

• The voice from heaven at Jesus’s baptism is reported differently (“You are my beloved Son” vs. “This is my beloved Son”), reflecting varied angles of emphasis—one private and direct, the other summarizing its significance. 

Precision vs. Accuracy: A less precise account can still be accurate. For example, the Lord’s Supper wording (“Covenant” vs. “New Covenant”) shows one version being precise about what was said and the other highlighting the theological significance.

Purpose of Differences: These variations enrich the text by providing multi-faceted perspectives, akin to multiple camera angles in sports replays. They reflect the complexities of life and the human experience of witnessing divine events.

Human Element in Scripture: God inspired the Bible through human authors, allowing their perspectives and contexts to shape the narrative. This diversity showcases the richness of divine communication through human means.

Addressing Skepticism: For skeptics or investigators, the differences reflect life’s complexity rather than undermining the Bible’s credibility. The richness of perspective and the focus on significance over rigid consistency serve to deepen understanding.

Final Thought: The Bible invites readers to consider various perspectives and contexts rather than expecting a simplistic account. Questions about why God allows differences will remain, but they ultimately highlight the depth and richness of Scripture.