Are some people who claim to believe what the Scriptures say close-minded about various issues? Of course they are. So are many other people. Are people who believe the Scriptures to be the infallible word of God close-minded by definition?

If we use a commonly accepted definition of close-mindedness (click here to look it up) this may seem to be the case when such a person encounters views which, if true, would prove the Scriptures to be in error. If one considers the abundant evidence for both the credibility and truthfulness of the Scriptures, however, would it not make sense to reject all views that do not take into account all related evidence in its totality, or for which the evidence offered is inconclusive?

With the above in mind, is it possible to say the Scriptures truly promote close-mindedness? They certainly do not instruct us to ignore the evidence (Ps. 19:1; Rom. 1:20). Furthermore, the Scriptures command believers to be prepared to provide answers to those that have questions (I Pet. 3:15).

Is it being close-minded to disagree with something solely on the basis of what the Scriptures say, either explicitly or in principle? Not necesarily--especially if it is simply an assertion without any facts to back it up. On the other hand, belief in the infallibility of Scripture ought not to preclude one from examining evidence carefully or engaging in meaningful dialog with those who hold opposing views on various issues. Since the evidence outside of Scripture may not be conclusive on a given issue, however, would it not be foolish to disregard whatever, if anything, the Scriptures may say on that issue when one believes in the infallibility of Scripture?

In cases where the evidence outside of Scripture for a given view is inconclusive, then, believing what the Scriptures say is not necessarily being close-minded. But what about the issue of the authority of Scripture itself? It is not necessary to be close-minded on this issue, either, as the evidence for the inerrancy, and hence the infallibility, of Scripture is readily available, and it can certainly be meaningfully discussed (see my article, "What is Your Ultimate Authority?"). A desire to avoid examining the evidence for the truthfulness of Scripture, however, would certainly be an indication of a closed mind, as would a reluctance to engage in meaningful dialog on this issue.

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