Inerrant is an odd description
Using the word “inerrant” to describe the bible is like trying to use the word “inerrant” to describe the classic novel “To Kill a Mockingbird.”
When we describe this novel to a friend, do we start with a defense of Boo Radley’s existence? Is it at all important to establish the time, date, place and circumstances of Mr. Tom Robinson’s alleged prosecution? Do I need to “believe in” Atticus Finch for the power of this story to fundamentally impact my life? Should I recite a creed affirming my belief in Finch’s existence? Is it important for me to believe that Boo supposedly put chewing gum in a tree, even though chewing gum wasn’t widely available in the U.S. until the early 1940’s?*
Maybe, if I were to describe this story to my neighbor, I should simply stick with the major themes: love, compassion, struggle, injustice, etc? Maybe I should have faith that the themes (and the themes alone) in this powerful work will guide us to a better existence.