Digging for Insights, Using Archaeology to Study the Bible

By John F. Brug

As Christians, we believe that the Bible is the infallible, inspired word of God. We literally believe 2 Timothy 3:16-17 that reads, “All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the man of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.” Everything that we need for salvation and living a God-pleasing life can be found within the pages of Scripture.

Even so, it’s encouraging when worldly evidence, such as archeology, reinforces what God has chosen to share with us through Scripture. Professor John F. Brug from the Wisconsin Lutheran Seminary has written an interesting and worthwhile book that helps bring details of everyday life and culture into biblical times. It delves into the world of archaeology, specifically in Israel where much of the Bible unfolded. The author enlightens the reader about how the excavation of pottery, houses, cities and water systems shed light on life in biblical times. It helps put Scripture in the context of Middle Eastern life during Jesus’ ministry and other notable moments in ancient history.

For example, the chapter on water systems helps the reader understand the climate of Israel and how important water was and is to survival. During biblical times when technology was a mere fraction of what it is today, towns, lifestyles and the economic system were built around the accessibility of water. Much of the water systems that existed then remain visible to visitors of these ancient locales.

The book provides chilling details of the likely process of how children were sacrificed to the god of Moloch—its cruelty and gruesomeness eerily similar to the vileness of modern-day child sacrifice through abortion.

Professor Brug also explains the basics of archaeology—what it is and what it isn’t. He describes its benefits and limitations, as well as that the impact on results depends upon the motivation of those doing the excavation.

If you want a better understanding of life in biblical times, and a clearer picture of their life and culture, I recommend Professor Brug’s book. Like me, you may find light bulbs going on as you read about the specifics of a time long ago as it relates to your study of Scripture. It’s worth the read.