The idea that the printed text of the Bible could be supernaturally altered is one that stirs up a deep sense of concern for many believers. We know that Scripture stands as the foundation of our faith, and any thought of it being tampered with challenges everything we hold dear. Could the spirit of antichrist be working to change the Word of God itself? Let’s see…
Can the Bible Be Changed?
The Bible itself assures us that God’s Word is eternal and unchanging. Isaiah 40:8 says, “The grass withereth, the flower fadeth: but the word of our God shall stand for ever.” Jesus even echoed this in Matthew 5:18, declaring that not even a jot or tittle (the smallest parts of Hebrew letters) would pass from the law until all is fulfilled. These verses seem to promise the preservation of Scripture. But does this mean the printed text in our hands is completely immune from an attack or attacks?
We’ve got to remember that while the written Word is vital, it points to something even greater: the truth of God and the living Word, Jesus Christ (John 1:1). Any attack on Scripture is ultimately an attempt to undermine God’s authority and deceive His people.
The Spirit of Antichrist and Deception
The Bible tells us repeatedly about deception in the last days. In Matthew 24:24, Jesus said, “For there shall arise false Christs, and false prophets, and shall shew great signs and wonders; insomuch that, if it were possible, they shall deceive the very elect.” Paul adds in 2 Thessalonians 2:9-12 that the coming of the lawless one will be marked by “lying signs and wonders” and that God will send a strong delusion to those who reject the truth.
Could this delusion involve the printed Word being altered? Some believe it might be. If Satan can masquerade as an angel of light (2 Corinthians 11:14), he might also attempt to manipulate the Bible to lead people astray. Daniel 7:25 warns that the antichrist will “think to change times and laws,” and Revelation 22:18-19 speaks of the dangers of adding to or taking away from Scripture. These verses open the door to the possibility that the Bible itself could become a target in the battle for truth.
The Boundaries of Satan’s Power
Here’s where we need to think ever so carefully. Satan is a deceiver, but his power is limited. He cannot touch God’s people without permission (Job 1:12; Luke 22:31-32), and he certainly cannot overrule God Almighty’s plan. God has promised to preserve His Word (Psalm 12:6-7), and we know His promises never fail.
That said, there’s a difference between the eternal truth of Scripture and the physical copies we hold in our hands. Printing presses, translators, and even human error can introduce changes to the text in these newer verions. Could supernatural forces exploit these vulnerabilities? Most definitely. But any such attempt would in the end serve God’s purposes, even if we don’t fully understand how.
Amos 8:11-12: A Famine of the Word
Amos 8:11-12 gives us a sobering prophecy: “Behold, the days come, saith the Lord God, that I will send a famine in the land, not a famine of bread, nor a thirst for water, but of hearing the words of the Lord: And they shall wander from sea to sea, and from the north even to the south, they shall run to and fro to seek the word of the Lord, and shall not find it.”
This is about a physical change to the Bible, it’s also about the confusion created with the newer versions… and is a judgment where people are unable to understand or find the truth of God’s Word. Spiritual blindness, as seen in Romans 1:28 and 2 Thessalonians 2:10-11, could explain why some see changes in Scripture that others don’t.
Connecting Other Scriptures
Several other verses can help us frame this discussion:
- Psalm 119:89: “For ever, O Lord, thy word is settled in heaven.” This reminds us that while earthly copies of the Bible may face challenges, God’s Word in “heaven” is unmovable and forever there in heaven.
- Hebrews 4:12: The Word of God is living and active, meaning its spiritual power cannot be diminished, even if the physical text is altered.
- Hosea 4:6: My people perish for lack of knowledge, showing the dangers of neglecting His Word.
Why John 1:1 Might Matter
Some may wonder if John 1:1, which speaks of Jesus as the Word (Logos), belongs in this conversation. While it directly refers to the person of Christ rather than the written Word, there’s a connection worth noting. If the printed Bible is corrupted, it becomes harder to point people to the living Word, Jesus Christ. Any attack on Scripture is ultimately an attack on Him, the ultimate manifestation of God (for He is God) to man.
Conclusion: Trusting God’s Ultimate and Unshakeable Plan
So, how should we respond to this idea of supernatural changes to the Bible? First, we have to trust in God’s promises to preserve His Word. Even if individual copies are altered, the truth of Scripture will endure. Second, we need to be vigilant, discerning deception through prayer and reliance on the Holy Spirit. And finally, we should hold fast to the eternal Word, both the Scriptures and Christ Himself, as our anchor in these turbulent times.
The spirit of antichrist may be at work, but we know the One who has already triumphed. As 1 John 4:4 reminds us: “Greater is he that is in me, than he that is in the world.” With this confidence, we can stand firm, trusting that God’s Word will accomplish what He intends, no matter what challenges we face.
Your servant folks,
Words in red are corrected changes in the verses…
