In this thought-provoking podcast episode, the hosts delve into the question of whether the Bible has undergone changes over the centuries. Specifically, they focus on a significant passage from the book of Jeremiah, chapter 8, which has sparked debate and curiosity among scholars and believers alike.
The hosts begin by providing some context about the book of Jeremiah. Jeremiah was an ancient prophet in Israel who lived during a tumultuous period in the nation's history. His prophecies were directed towards a people who had turned away from God, and he urged them to repent and return to their faith.
The pivotal passage under scrutiny, Jeremiah 8:8-9, reads as follows: "How can you say, 'We are wise, for we have the law of the Lord,' when actually the lying pen of the scribes has handled it falsely? The wise will be put to shame; they will be dismayed and trapped. Since they have rejected the word of the Lord, what kind of wisdom do they have?"
The hosts highlight that this passage has often been interpreted as an accusation that the scribes, responsible for copying and preserving the sacred texts, had intentionally altered the words of God. Such a claim raises doubts about the accuracy and reliability of the Bible throughout history.
To address this issue, the hosts present a quick answer that the Bible itself reveals. They reference Jeremiah 36, where the prophet instructs his scribe, Baruch, to write down all the words of God that Jeremiah had spoken. Baruch diligently records these prophecies on a scroll, which is later read before King Jehoiakim.
Upon hearing the scroll, the king grows increasingly angered and orders it to be cut up and burned. However, the hosts point out that the words written on the scroll are not lost forever. Jeremiah instructs Baruch to rewrite the words, emphasizing that "many similar words were added to them" (Jeremiah 36:32).
This passage, the hosts argue, provides insight into the process of preserving the sacred texts. Even if one copy was destroyed or altered, there were others available to ensure the accuracy and preservation of the divine message. The episode highlights the commitment of ancient scribes and the community of believers to safeguard the integrity of the Scriptures.
The hosts conclude that while minor variations and errors may have occurred in the copying process over time, the essential teachings and messages of the Bible have been faithfully preserved. They emphasize that the discovery of the Dead Sea Scrolls in the mid-20th century, which include ancient copies of biblical texts, has further affirmed the remarkable preservation of the Scriptures.
In exploring Jeremiah 8 and the revealing answer provided by the Bible itself, the episode serves as a reminder of the ongoing scholarly efforts to understand the history and transmission of the sacred texts. It encourages listeners to approach the Bible with an informed perspective and to appreciate the dedication of those who have ensured its preservation for generations.
