Why Believe the Bible?
Mathematics

Scripture Reading:  Isaiah 13:20-22

Key Verse: Isaiah 13:19

Babylon, the jewel of kingdoms, the glory of the Babylonians’ pride, will be overthrown by God like Sodom and Gomorrah.

In our scripture for today, we read a prediction of the destruction of Babylon.  That may not impress you until you understand the mathematics involved!  John MacArthur, in his book: “Why Believe the Bible,” tells of Peter Stoner, a scientist and mathematician.  He developed the “principle of probability.”  His equations are used in fixing insurance rates, for one thing.

            Some of Stoner’s students applied his principle to the prophecy found in Isaiah 13 about Babylon.  They estimated the chance of the Babylon prophecies occurring at one in 100 billion, but everything stated by the prophet Isaiah did come to pass.

            A few days ago we studied the prophecies concerning the ancient city of Tyre.  (April 4 devotional).  These same students applied Stoner’s principles to the predictions about Tyre found in Ezekiel 26.  If you remember, there were seven claims about its destruction and how it would come about.  Applying the principles of probability, the students found that for all seven prophecies to come true it would be a one in 400 million chance.  Yet, as we know, all seven did occur just as the Bible predicted!

            Those of us who walk by faith don’t need these facts to believe in the God of our salvation.  We can use them to help others come to faith!

Father, thank you for granting us the Bible to guide our lives!  I have staked my eternity on the written Word…a solid foundation.  In Jesus’ Name, Amen.