Special Note about Unit 11 for Teachers

From Richard Newman, Biblical Accuracy Specialist for the Kingdom Kids Curriculum Project

There is a unique thrill for disciples when we hear news like this:

"Observing variations in the universal background microwave radiation is compared by its discoverer to 'seeing the breath of God.'"
"Further excavation of the city of Jericho suggests that something very unusual happened to the city walls, something that cannot be explained by natural phenomena."
"Analytical research of DNA samples suggests the entire human race has a single female ancestor."

Such findings can build our faith, but what happens when we hear statements like these?

"The ancient flood at Ur, once believed to prove the story of Noah, was found to have been only a small flood."
"The ruins once touted as 'Solomon’s stables' are now believed by some to be merely the remains of storehouses."

New discoveries that shed light on biblical events can be exciting and meaningful for believers. However, our faith should not rest on these findings alone. It is vital to communicate this to the children we teach, equipping them to grow in and defend their faith without being shaken when some peripheral evidence is questioned or proven false.

A Balanced Approach to Archaeology

Archaeological discoveries, in particular, are subject to many interpretations. We must be cautious about accepting and repeating every claim at face value. Many claims found in popular books or online are not supported by scholarly research or have been reinterpreted due to more recent findings.

This is not to say scholars are always correct. Some writers aim to "disprove" the Bible from the outset, while others overreach in their conclusions to "prove" the Bible's accuracy. Both approaches can be misleading.

Archaeology cannot prove or disprove miraculous events, but it can help us understand where and how people lived during biblical times. The fact that any evidence from thousands of years ago still exists is remarkable!

For a balanced perspective, consider Treasures from Bible Times by Alan Millard (Lion Publishing Co., 1985). This book offers an even-handed approach to biblical archaeology and may be available at your local library. If not, interlibrary loan services can be a great resource; allow several weeks for delivery.