Following in the footsteps of his book, Inerrancy and Worldview, Dr. Poythress wrote Inerrancy and The Gospels. Serious Bible readers all recognize that there are differences between accounts of the same events in Matthew, Mark, Luke and John, and no responsible reader can simply sweep the differences under the rug. The question Dr. Poythress addresses in this book is, “How can each unique account recorded in the Gospels be reconciled with a belief in biblical inerrancy?”
Responding to the questions surrounding the Gospel narratives, New Testament scholar Vern Poythress provides an informed case for inerrancy in the Gospels by helping his readers understand basic principles for harmonization. He also tackles some of the most complicated exegetical problems, showing the way forward on passages that have perplexed many, including the centurion’s servant, the cursing of the fig tree. Like with Inerrancy and Worldview Poythress goal in Inerrancy and the Gospels is not to provide an in depth explanation of what inerrancy is, but rather the effects of inerrancy on our worldview.
The part of the book I liked the most was Dr. Poythress discussion on an impersonal and personalistic worldview. The author notes, “If we reckon with the fact that God is personal and that He rules the world personally, we have a personalistic worldview that has notable contrast with the impersonalism that characterizes a lot of modern thinking. The robust personalism of the Bible helps to dissolve some difficulties that trouble modern people if they read the Bible against the backdrop of modern impersonalism. This contrast between personalism and impersonalism is important when we deal with the Gospels” (16).
All those interested in the authority of Scripture will find this volume filled with great encouragement and insight. Dr. Poythress in Inerrancy and the Gospels provides an arresting case for inerrancy designed to stem the tide of skepticism. Whether you’re new to the issue of inerrancy or a veteran to the topic, I encourage you to read this wise, insightful and clearly written book, as it will help strengthen your faith in the trustworthiness’ of the Bible as the very words of God. This would be a great book for Bible college students and Pastors to read and then recommend to others on the issue of Gospel harmonization.
Title: Inerrancy and the Gospels: A God-Centered Approach to the Challenges of Harmonization
Author: Vern Poythress
Publisher: Crossway Books (2012)
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the Crossway book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
Dave Jenkins is happily married to his wife, Sarah. He is a writer, editor, and speaker living in beautiful Southern Oregon. Dave is a lover of Christ, His people, the Church, and sound theology. He serves as the Executive Director of Servants of Grace Ministries, the Executive Editor of Theology for Life Magazine, the Host and Producer of Equipping You in Grace Podcast, and is a contributor to and producer of Contending for the Word. He is the author of The Word Explored: The Problem of Biblical Illiteracy and What To Do About It (House to House, 2021), The Word Matters: Defending Biblical Authority Against the Spirit of the Age (G3 Press, 2022), and Contentment: The Journey of a Lifetime (Theology for Life, 2024). You can find him on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Youtube, or read his newsletter. Dave loves to spend time with his wife, going to movies, eating at a nice restaurant, or going out for a round of golf with a good friend. He is also a voracious reader, in particular of Reformed theology, and the Puritans. You will often find him when he’s not busy with ministry reading a pile of the latest books from a wide variety of Christian publishers. Dave received his M.A.R. and M.Div through Liberty Baptist Theological Seminary.
