Apparent Biblical Inconsistencies

I realize there are many apparent inconsistencies in the Bible, but the reader should remember that they are indeed apparent, not actual. Because this Book treats of matters in the spiritual realm, there are bound to be many apparent theoretical contradictions. Spiritual things do often seem to be contradictory (2 Cor. 4.8,9). However, these all find their perfect harmony in experience. Hence, though there are places which seem to defy understanding, my request is that you try your best to understand. If anyone desires to misunderstand, he can surely read into the pages of the Word of God, Jesus Christ that which He has not intended.

"We are hard-pressed on every side, yet not crushed; we are perplexed, but not in despair; 9 persecuted, but not forsaken; struck down, but not destroyed--" (2 Cor. 4.8,9).

Only one class of people will actually understand the Bible's deeper truths. Even so, God supplies the need of many believers; obviously only those who have need will be able to appreciate the Book. Such ones will find here a guidebook. Others will either look upon these truths as ideals or criticize them as inappropriate. According to the measure of his need shall be the believer’s understanding of what is written here. Unless the reader has personal need he will not find any problem solved through the reading of the Word of God. This is what the reader must guard against.

The deeper the truth the easier is it to become theoretical. Apart from the working of the Holy Spirit, none can arrive at deeper truth. Thus some will treat the principles in God's Word as a sort of ideal. Let us therefore be careful lest we accept the teachings in the Book with our mind and deceive ourselves into thinking we have possessed them already. This is most dangerous, for deception which comes from the flesh and the evil spirit shall increase day by day.