The Highway Forums General Discussion Theology Discussion Forum Translating From the Original Bible Manuscript

I hope I can phrase my questions the way I intend them, because finding the right words is hard for me.

I have read quite a few articles on topics like 'the sufficiency of Scripture' ; 'verbal plenary inspiration' and related issues.
What I am looking for is information and comments on the aspect of translating difficulties from the original writings, into our various languages.

I have a few issues in mind. Such as were the original manuscripts inerrant and inspired in such a way that every jot and tittle were inerrant, spelling misstates included?

I have read quite a few Reformed Churches web sites who state that they believe as originally given, they believe the Bible is inspired and inerrant.
Is this an accurate description of this doctrine?

If so, would it not conclude that seeing we now don't have the inspired texts, we have copies into various language that bring translation problems and therefore are no longer inerrant and inspired the way the originals were?
This isn't saying that what we have isn't trustworthy.

Tom

The Belgic and commentaries found in here and here as well as some of our previous discussions on this subject might be helpful to you.

Gresham Machen deals with this specific question in his article, Is the Bible the Word of God?. The section where he begins answering your question(s) is about half way down. Of course, the entire article, which is relatively short, is quite good and it would be rather foolish not to read it in its entirety.

Thanks Pilgrim
I finally had a chance to actually sit down long enough to read the article in its entirety.

If I understand Machen properly, although he doesn't use the words "jot and tittle" he does in essence answer my questions.
He basically says that the originals that we no longer have were perfect in every matter, even "jot or tittle".

This was and is my understanding as well and I don't believe that it takes anything away from to the doctrine of the inspiration of Scripture as taught by the Reformers.
I liked how he dealt with those who would oppose him by believing that the fact we no long have the originals should be enough proof to discredit plenary inspiration.

Tom