Theological Reflections - Inspiration

Theological Reflections - Special Revelation Author’s Name The Institutional Affiliation Course Number and Name Instructor Name Assignment Due Date Claim of “Circularity” to the Concept of Biblical Inspiration The charge of circularity arises because claims for biblical inspiration often appeal to Scripture itself as evidence of divine origin, which critics view as reasoning in a circle. Erickson answers that every system must either start from its own authority and risk circularity or appeal to another foundation and risk inconsistency. He argues that Scripture’s self-witness should be treated as admissible testimony that informs a hypothesis, not as a final proof, analogous to allowing a defendant to speak without letting that statement end the trial. One may also consult the Bible historically to learn what its authors believed about their writings without presupposing inspiration. Thus, Scripture can “plead its own case”...