The Bible contains errors or mistakes?

The question of whether the Bible contains errors or mistakes is a complex one and depends on the perspective from which it is approached. 

1. Autographs (Original Manuscripts)

The "autographs" refer to the original writings of the biblical texts as penned by the authors (e.g., Moses, Paul, etc.).

I hold to the doctrine of biblical inerrancy, believe that the autographs were inspired by God and therefore free from error in their original form. This belief is based on passages like 2 Timothy 3:16, which states that "all Scripture is God-breathed."

The Bible has no error or mistake! The Bible is perfect!

2. Apographs (Copies of the Original Manuscripts)

The "apographs" are the copies of the original manuscripts that were made by scribes over centuries.

It is widely acknowledged, even by conservative scholars, that the apographs contain scribal errors, such as misspellings, copyist mistakes, and minor textual variations. These errors are well-documented in the field of textual criticism.

Despite these errors, the vast majority of these mistakes are minor and do not affect core Christian doctrines. Textual critics have worked to reconstruct the most accurate possible text by comparing thousands of ancient manuscripts.

3. Modern Bible Translations

Modern Bible translations are based on the best available manuscripts and are the result of extensive scholarly work.

While translations aim to be as accurate as possible, they are not perfect. Differences in translation philosophy (e.g., word-for-word vs. thought-for-thought) can lead to variations in how certain passages are rendered.

Some people argue that these differences constitute "errors," while others see them as natural variations in the process of translation.

Perspectives on Errors in the Bible:

Inerrancy View: Holds that the original autographs were without error because they were inspired by God. This view acknowledges that errors may exist in later copies but maintains that the original message is preserved.

Infallibility View: Suggests that the Bible is without error in matters of faith and practice but may contain minor historical or scientific inaccuracies.

Critical View: Some scholars and skeptics argue that the Bible contains errors, contradictions, and historical inaccuracies, even in the original texts.

Conclusion:

The autographs are believed by many to be without error. The apographs (copies) undeniably contain scribal errors, but these are generally minor and do not undermine the overall message of the Bible. Modern translations strive for accuracy but are subject to the limitations of language and interpretation.

I deeply respect your love for the TR and the KJV, and I agree that they are incredibly valuable texts. However, my belief in inerrancy is rooted in the original autographs, which were inspired by God and without error. While the TR and KJV are excellent, they are copies and translations, and like all human works, they contain minor imperfections. This doesn’t take away from their usefulness or authority, but it reminds us to focus on the original texts as the ultimate standard. The differences in textual preference (e.g., TR vs. modern critical texts) should not overshadow the unity we have in Christ and our shared belief in the truth of God’s Word.