[SoulGrind]

I am intending this particular thread to be more of an informational resource than anything. However, at some point in time I'm sure it's bound to fire up some lively debate (as is the nature of the Apologetics forums here on Worthy Boards).

I would like to subject this thread to a couple of "rules" (or guidelines if you will). In holding true to good literary practice of submitting "evidence" in support of the Biblical account, please reference the work from which it was derived and the authorship of that work so the findings can be verified.

Obviously we must also abide by the rules set forth by Worthy Boards in order to remain in good standing with the moderators.

Since I am starting this thread, I will offer up the first piece of information that I have found.

I recently purchased a new Bible, the "Archaeological Study Bible", in the NIV translation, published by Zondervan Press, 2005. Zondervan acknowledges several contributors of information to this Bible such as the University of Cambridge, England, The University of Texas at Austin, Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary, Harvard University, and many others. The list is long and distinguished in both secular and non-secular circles. Suffice it to say, this should satisfy even the most discriminating non-believer for sources of unbiased, historical, cultural, geographical, and archaeological information available today.

Without further ado...

Evidence for Serug, Nahor, and Terah

According to the Old Testament the patriarchs original homeland was in south-central Turkey, in an area known as Aram Naharaim (Genesis 24:10) or Paddan-Aram (Genesis 25:20). Among the genealogical names of individuals listed in Genesis 11, three - Serug, Nahor, and Terah - have survived from antiquity as the names of towns in this region. The names of these Biblical characters have been preserved in the very area from which the Bible specifies the patriarchs to have originated.

Serug, Abram's (Abraham) great-grandfather, fathered Nahor at age 30 and died at age 230 (Genesis 11:22-23). His name, which corresponds to the place called Sargi in Assyrian inscriptions of the seventh century B.C., lives on as modern Sürüc, 35 miles (56.5 km) northwest of Haran.

Nahor, Abram's (Abraham) grandfather, fathered Terah at age 29 and died at age 148 (Genesis 11:24-25). A town called Nahor is mentioned in Genesis 24:10 as the home of the decendants of Bethuel, another son of Nahor (Genesis 24:24). This particular town also is mentioned in texts from Mari and Cappadocia from the nineteenth through the eighteenth centuries B.C., as well as in Assyrian inscriptions from the fourteenth century B.C. Later Assyrian records from the seventh century B.C. refer to it as Til Nakhiri, which means "Mound of Nahor." Although Nahor's exact location is unknown today, numerous references in ancient texts place it in the Balikh River valley south of Haran.

Terah fathered Abram (Abraham) at age 70 and died at age 205 (Genesis 11:26,32). A town named Til Turahi ("Mound of Terah") is mentioned in ninth-century B.C. Assyrian texts as being north of Haran, also on the Balikh River.

From the book entitled "Who Was Who In The Bible: The Ultimate A to Z Resource", published by Thomas Nelson Publishers, 1999, we learn the following:

Serug [SIR-uhg]
A son of Reu and the father of Nahor (Genesis 11:20-23). Serug is listed as an ancestor of Jesus in Luke's geneallogy (Luke 3:35; Saruch, KJC)

Nahor [NAY-hor]
The father of Terah, grandfather of Abram (Abraham) (Genesis 11:22-25), and an anecestor of Jesus Christ (Luke 3:34; Nachor, KJV).

Terah [TEE-ruh]
The father of Abram (Abraham) and an ancestor of Christ (Genesis 11:26-27; Luke 3:34; Thara, KJV). Descended from Shem, Terah also was the father of Nahor and Haran. He lived at Ur of the Chaldeans most of his life; at Ur he worshipped the moon-god (Joshua 24:2). From Ur, Terah migrated with his son Abram (Abraham), his grandson Lot (Hanran's son), and his daughter-in-law Sarah (Abraham's wife) to Haran, a city about 800 km (500 miles) north of Ur and about 445 km (275 miles) northeast of Damascus. Terah died in Haran, another city where the moon-god was worshiped, at the age of 205 (Gensis 11:24-32)

As we can clearly see from this information, three key figures in the geneology of both Abraham and Jesus Christ are mentioned in the Bible (in the book of Genesis) and are supported by archaeological evidence found within the regions as reported in the Biblical account.

Furthermore, we can also clearly see that the towns from Biblical times have been found to hold true to the Biblical account as well.

So far, we're 2 for 2 - History, archaeology, and the Bible are lining up.

This post has been edited by SoulGrind: 17 October 2006 - 11:12 AM

[Lepaca Kliffoth]

And?

[SoulGrind]

Is the Old testament Historically Accurate? Does it Matter? - From "Can Archaeology Prove the Old Testament", Ralph O. Muncaster, Harvest House Publishers, 2000

The Bible presents itself as fact, In matters of history, it claims to present historical fact. In communication from God (that is, prophecy, instruction, or judgement), it also claims to be factual.

In order to trust the Bible, it's important to be able to trust that it is accurate and true.

The Bible is unique among holy books in that it commands its readers to "test everything" (1 Thessalonians 5:21).

"...Prove all things; hold fast that which is good."
[1 Thessalonians 5:21 - KJV]

Does that mean "test" the Bible itself, as well? In a sense, yes - at least to the point of knowing that it is truly inspired by God.

Once we realize God has inspired the Bible, we can trust even the difficult-to-understand parts, since God would not make mistakes.

Why would the Bible command us to perform such a test? Very simply, to set itself apart from other books claiming to be from God. "Blind faith" can lead people to trust in the wrong source for truth.

Other holy books claim to be historical - but without giving evidence of it. Or they claim to be divinely inspired - without real "proof" of inspiration (for example, without the evidence of fulfilled prophecy). Emotional techniques sometimes use "feelings" that are claimed to be evidence. Or a religion might use philosophical arguments to claim its holy book is true.

But if something is really from God, wouldn't it be accurate? The Bible is.

Wouldn't God provide evidence of His authorship? The Bible does.

It contains historical evidence demonstrated to be fact; it is translated from reliable manuscripts; and it provides a trustworthy guide for archaeology. Evidence of divine authorship is also abundant in the Bible, with hundreds of fullfilled prophecies, scientific insights, and examples of concealed evidence.

The accuracy of the Old Testament is vital to the Bible's Message.

1.) It reveals the power, nature, and expectations of God
2.) It demonstrates our need for a Savior
3.) It defines God's plan of redemption
4.) It verifies the Bible's divine inspiration (by perfect, precise prophecy)
5.) It promises the coming of Jesus Christ
6.) It confirms Jesus as the Messiah (through perfectly fullfilled prophecy)

Achaeology provides one means of confirming the historical accuracy of the Bible. Only a century ago, some people thought modern archaeology would prove the Bible false. Instead, investigation has verified many of its historical accounts to the smallest detail. Some of the Bible's greatest skeptics have become it's greatest supporters. And the Bible is routinely used as an archaeological resource.

Thankfully, I have a vast library of resources from which to draw upon, and I am willing to take the time to present the evidence in support of the Bible.

While I personally am no archaeologist myself, it is however an interest of mine, along with history, science, technology, and of course, apologetics.

The above quote sets the stage - so far, it hasn't proven anything. It's sole purpose is to define our goals - "To supply evidence in support of the Biblical accounts through the use of non-Biblical references."

To back this claim up Biblically, I must refer to the following passage of scripture:

"But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts: and be ready always to give an answer to every man that asketh you a reason of the hope that is in you with meekness and fear:"
[1 Peter 3:15 - KJV]

I suppose this should have really been my first post on this thread - but no matter, at least it's here. :thumbsup:

This post has been edited by SoulGrind: 17 October 2006 - 02:01 PM

[Lepaca Kliffoth]

Any attempt to show that the Bible is accurate ultimately turns into a "goddidit" cop-out, e.g. the Flood, so there's no point really. I think you should use your time for something more meaningful but if you want to spam a thread with quotes... whatever floats your boat :)

This post has been edited by Lepaca Kliffoth: 18 October 2006 - 06:48 AM

[Matthitjah]

Grace to you,

I don't see a goddidit post yet.

However what I do see is some serious closed mindedness on your part Lepaca. If you feel that this thread will be useless? Please spare the OP your sharp words and stay away from it. :wub:

I'm sorry that you are here to tear apart and tear down.

However that is not the point and purpose of this Ministry.

Hold your anger, please.

You have had much time and Bandwidth to spout forth your viewpoint. To which I must grant that most here have been patient and Gracious. Although not in agreement.

If you feel that you can't participate in a like manner? Please let me know in advance and I will make arrangements for you. :wub:

Until then may God Richly Bless your seeking dear friend.

Peace,
Dave

[Gerioke]

Matthitjah, on Oct 18 2006, 09:44 AM, said:

Grace to you,

I don't see a goddidit post yet.

However what I do see is some serious closed mindedness on your part Lepaca. If you feel that this thread will be useless? Please spare the OP your sharp words and stay away from it. :wub:

I'm sorry that you are here to tear apart and tear down.

However that is not the point and purpose of this Ministry.

Hold your anger, please.

You have had much time and Bandwidth to spout forth your viewpoint. To which I must grant that most here have been patient and Gracious. Although not in agreement.

If you feel that you can't participate in a like manner? Please let me know in advance and I will make arrangements for you. :wub:

Until then may God Richly Bless your seeking dear friend.

Peace,
Dave

]You rock :wub: :mgqueen:

[SoulGrind]

Sorry I haven't updated this thread lately - Work, Bible Study, and my Fiancé have all kept me busy this week. I am in the process of compiling a brief list of "findings". Once completed, I will post here on this thread, then, I will go into further detail on each account.

And for those who are curious - yes, I will cover both Old and New Testaments, but in the style of the late, great Dr. J. Vernon McGee - starting at Genesis and working my way through to Revelation.

I really didn't start this thread to harbor "debate", although a little debate keeps the mind sharp. I really started this thread so others could examine the SUPPORTING evidence for themselves.

It's a HUGE goal to attempt to achieve - but thanks to my personal library, and my Church library, I am happy to spend my time sharing.

And of course, I'll continue to acknowledge the references from which I borrow so everyone can verify the evidence for themselves should they so choose.

I also promise to only use credible references - and while the non-believers here would argue that the Bible is not credible, I am arguing in it's defense - hence the reason for this thread. Therefore, you shall see some references to scripture when required to see the correlation between the evidence presented and the Biblical testimony.

While most of my references will come from Christian authors, please keep in mind, the root evidence typically comes from secular sources such as Universities and other historical and scientific foundations.

When all is said and done, it is my prayerful goal to show how secular (scientific) evidence backs up the Biblical testimony.

Once this has been achieved - you can then "decide for yourself" whether God exists of not.

Just keep one thing in mind. If we prove the vast majority of the Biblical accounts regarding the natural universe to be true, then we are ultimately forced to take a serious look at the spiritual aspects of the Bible. And remember, if the Bible maintains a high level of integrity when it comes to issues of the natural world, how much more of a high moral integrity will it show of the spiritual world?

Stay tuned.

More to come...

[Matthitjah]

Grace to you,

J. Vernon McGhee is one man whom I will give a big hug in heaven.

I listened to him for years as I travelled down the Capital Beltway on my way to work at unGodly hours. Isn't it funny They were really Godly hours spent with a Gravely voiced Dogmatic Preacher taking trips and turns through the Bible. I wasn't even Saved yet. Matter of fact I sounded a lot like some of our resident atheists.

Never give up Preaching the Truth and planting seeds.


There were times when I didn't know who I was praying to, God the Father, Jesus, just plain God, etc.... in the parking lot prior to going into work. I just know I needed to pray. Ah' but Jesus our Lord was engineering nothing short of a miracle of His Grace.

Some folks just can't stand J. Vernon McGhee. To me he sounds all too familiar. Like the voice of my Savior spoken through a man. :noidea:

God Bless his Living soul. :laugh:

Peace,
Dave

[apothanein kerdos]

Lepaca Kliffoth, on Oct 18 2006, 06:46 AM, said:

Any attempt to show that the Bible is accurate ultimately turns into a "goddidit" cop-out, e.g. the Flood, so there's no point really. I think you should use your time for something more meaningful but if you want to spam a thread with quotes... whatever floats your boat :noidea:

Right, as opposed to "it just happened" that the athiests feed us. :laugh:

Atheists have their own version of "Goddidit", they just refuse to let it be exploited.

[billie]

I love you, Dave. :noidea: