Biblical explanation
Paul says Scripture is: "given by inspiration of God" 2 Timothy 3:16, KJV The Bible also explains its purpose in pointing people to salvation through Christ. Paul tells Timothy that the Holy Scriptures are able to make a person: "wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus." 2 Timothy 3:15, KJV Jesus likewise said: "Search the scriptures; for in them ye think ye have eternal life: and they are they which testify of me." John 5:39, KJV John explains why he recorded his Gospel: "These are written, that ye might believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God." John 20:31, KJV The Bible also points to prophecy as evidence that God knows what will happen before it occurs (Isaiah 46:9-10; John 13:19). And it does not discourage examination. The Bereans searched the Scriptures daily to determine whether Paul's teaching was true (Acts 17:11). The Bible does not tell us to believe simply because another person says, "The Bible is true." Instead, it repeatedly directs people back to God's Word, prophecy, the testimony concerning Christ, and personal examination. Christian faith is therefore not presented as faith without evidence. At the same time, evidence does not remove the need for faith. Scripture calls people to trust God and respond to the truth they have received. The ultimate center of the Bible is Jesus Christ. The Scriptures testify about Him, and the purpose of their testimony is that people may believe in Him and receive life.
Key takeaway
The great controversy reveals God's character as Christ ministers as our High Priest in the heavenly sanctuary. The dead await the resurrection, Christ's return will be visible and personal, and prophecy calls believers to faithful mission rather than date-setting or fear.