The recent discussion on the Opoku Ware School AP/AU400+ WhatsApp platform about the history, formation, and inspiration of the Bible once again reminded me of a question that has occupied my mind for many years: Why does my good friend and colleague, Apostle J. Tuah (AU468), remain so firmly attached to certain traditional interpretations of Scripture despite his impressive academic background?
This article is not intended to ridicule or attack him. Rather, it is an expression of genuine intellectual curiosity and a call for deeper reflection among Christians.
A Shared Journey
Apostle J. Tuah and I have walked similar educational paths.
We were both science students at Opoku Ware School during our O’Level years. Ironically, both of us later changed direction in Sixth Form.
I was initially admitted to study Physics, Chemistry and Biology, but after careful reflection I switched to Accounting, Christian Religious Studies (CRS) and Economics.
Apostle J. Tuah also left the pure sciences and pursued Mathematics, Christian Religious Studies (CRS) and Economics.
Later, we both attended the University of Ghana, Legon, although our leadership journeys differed.
I had the privilege of serving as Treasurer of the Opoku Ware School and St. Louis School Association (AKATASLOPSA) on campus, while Apostle J. Tuah rose to become the Commonwealth Hall (Vandals) President, one of the most influential student leadership positions at Legon.
Both of us studied the Synoptic Gospels—Matthew, Mark and Luke—and received formal theological and historical instruction through Christian Religious Studies.
The Debate That Sparked Reflection
The recent WhatsApp discussion began after members praised a presentation on the history of the Bible.
The conversation soon developed into a thoughtful exchange on several issues:
- how the biblical canon was formed,
- the role of church councils,
- whether politics influenced the selection and preservation of biblical books,
- Bible translations,
- and whether the Bible’s coherence proves divine supervision.
Several classmates contributed insightful observations from different perspectives.
While Apostle J. Tuah defended the traditional evangelical understanding that God supervised the writing and preservation of Scripture, others questioned whether this conclusion necessarily follows from the available historical evidence.
The exchange remained largely respectful and intellectually engaging.
My Difficulty Understanding Apostle J. Tuah
What continues to puzzle me is not that Apostle J. Mintuah believes the Bible is inspired.
Millions of Christians sincerely hold that belief.
My difficulty is that he often appears unwilling to distinguish between faith-based conviction and historical investigation.
History shows that:
- the biblical canon developed over centuries;
- church councils discussed which writings would be accepted;
- translations introduced differences in wording;
- political, cultural and ecclesiastical factors influenced how Christianity developed.
Recognizing these historical realities does not automatically deny divine inspiration.
Rather, it invites Christians to appreciate both God’s work and human participation in the transmission of Scripture.
Faith and Wisdom Should Walk Together
One lesson I have learned over the years is that faith should never fear honest questions.
The Bible itself encourages believers to seek wisdom.
Questioning historical processes is not the same as rejecting God.
Understanding how Scripture reached us should strengthen our appreciation for the Bible rather than weaken it.
Sometimes I jokingly tell Apostle J. Tuah that his childhood religious formation was so deeply rooted that it occasionally makes it difficult for him to reconsider long-held assumptions.
Of course, every one of us—including myself—must be willing to examine our own convictions.
A Healthy Difference
Our debate illustrates something positive.
People with similar educational backgrounds can study the same Bible and arrive at different conclusions.
That diversity of thought should encourage respectful dialogue instead of hostility.
Christian maturity is demonstrated not only by defending one’s beliefs but also by listening carefully to alternative viewpoints.
My Conclusion
I continue to respect Apostle J. Tuah as a brother, former schoolmate, fellow Legon alumnus, and Christian leader.
However, I also believe that Christianity benefits when believers combine faith with historical inquiry, conviction with humility, and doctrine with wisdom.
The Bible remains one of history’s most influential books.
Understanding both its spiritual message and its historical journey can enrich our faith rather than diminish it.
As I often say:
Wisdom is not the enemy of faith. Genuine wisdom enables faith to ask deeper questions while remaining open to truth wherever it leads.
Apostle Michael Asabere (AP248)
The Only Living Saint
Moment of Wisdom GH TV
