Is there anything wrong with questioning the Bible?

TL;DR:

Questioning the Bible can be part of spiritual growth if done with humility and a desire for understanding, but it becomes harmful when rooted in pride or rebellion. We should seek answers while trusting in God's wisdom and continuing to value His Word.

what does the bible say?

The Bible reveals God to us and shows us how He communicates with humanity. Questioning the Bible can be healthy when it causes us to turn to God and grow in our understanding of Him (Acts 17:11). But we must be careful not to fall into Satan’s trap of doubting the truth of the Bible. From the beginning, Satan has tried to get humanity to distrust God's Word, as he did with Eve (Genesis 3:1). The Bible is a special book for many reasons. Year after year, historical details in the Bible are validated by archeology, yet it isn’t merely a history book. Its special status is affirmed not only by its uncommon wisdom, but also by its many fulfilled prophecies (Deuteronomy 18:15–19; 1 Kings 20:18; Jeremiah 34:3). Questioning the Bible to increase our knowledge and understanding of it is commendable, but questioning to discredit it is rooted in pride and rebellion (Proverbs 3:5–7; 2 Peter 3:3–5).

from the old testament

Satan attempted to get Eve to doubt God's Word when he questioned her about what God told her: "Did God actually say. . .?" (Genesis 3:1). He does the same to people today.
Proverbs 30:5 asserts that "Every word of God proves true.” The Bible affirms the wisdom of that proverb through, among other things, its many fulfilled prophecies (Deuteronomy 18:15–19; 1 Kings 20:18; Jeremiah 34:3).
While the Bible includes some special stipulations and instructions for specific people—namely, Israel—within a certain time period, God has never changed, so neither has His moral law (Ecclesiastes 3:14).

from the new testament

Jesus welcomed questions from His disciples when they had trouble understanding the Parable of the Sower, and He shared an explanation with them (Luke 8:9–15). Similarly, when something in the Bible seems contradictory or confusing, that should prompt us to ask questions and seek God for answers.
In John 8:31–32, Jesus says, "If you abide in my word, you are truly my disciples, and you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” Those who value truth should make Bible reading a regular practice.
The apostle Peter writes, “For no prophecy was ever produced by the will of man, but men spoke from God as they were carried along by the Holy Spirit" (2 Peter 1:21). If we question God’s Word, it should be from a posture of humility and a desire to know God better.

implications for today

“Why?” That seems to be a kid’s favorite word. “Why can’t I eat ice cream before dinner?” “Why is the sky blue?” “Why do we have to wear shoes?” It can be a little maddening. But kids are curious and want to learn, so parents dip into their reserves of patience. Sometimes, Christians ask “Why?” as they make their way through the Bible. A common question starts with, “Why did God. . .?” If we’re asking out of genuine curiosity to learn more about God’s character, looking for answers can contribute to our spiritual growth. If we’re asking to challenge or judge God’s actions, it’s never right.

New Christians reading through the Bible should expect to have some questions that won’t be answered. Praying for wisdom and understanding is key (James 1:5). Using credible Bible study resources (such as Got Questions) is another effective step. But we must accept that not all our questions will be answered. We weren’t meant to know everything (Deuteronomy 29:29). But when we trust in God, we know He will reveal what we need to know.

Sometimes, people rationalize their rejection of the Bible based on their unanswered questions or supposed Bible “contradictions.” Often, that’s an excuse to also reject the Bible’s moral teachings, so people can live outside the parameters God set for us. But we should never reject or stop reading the Bible simply because we don’t understand something and can’t find the answer. The best strategy when we can’t find an answer to a Bible question is to pray about it and keep reading. God’s Word sanctifies us (John 17:17). As we continue to abide in Scripture, we continue to grow in love and trust of God and His Word.

understand

Questioning the Bible can aid spiritual growth if done with humility, but it becomes harmful when driven by pride.
The Bible’s wisdom and truth are supported by history and prophecy, and its moral teachings are unchanging.
We should question the Bible to grow in understanding, trusting that God will reveal what we need to know.

reflect

When you question something in the Bible, how can you tell if your heart posture is more about seeking understanding or challenging God’s truth?
How can you ensure that your questions about the Bible lead you to a deeper relationship with God, rather than doubt?
How do you respond when you encounter parts of the Bible that are difficult to understand or seem contradictory?

engage

Why is important to come with a humble posture when questioning God’s Word, especially when facing confusion or doubt?
What are some ways we can help others grow in their trust of the Bible when they’re struggling with unanswered questions?
How can we respond to unbelievers who question the Bible in a way that points them to really seek answers?