What does the term "verbal plenary inspiration" refer to?

The term "verbal plenary inspiration" specifically refers to the belief that the exact wording of Scripture is inspired. This theological concept asserts that not only the thoughts or messages conveyed by the authors of the biblical texts are inspired, but that the very words themselves are guided by divine influence. This means that every part of the Scripture, down to the individual words, is considered to be the result of God's inspiration, ensuring that the text accurately reflects His will and purposes.

This understanding reinforces the authority of the Scriptures, as it emphasizes that the specifics of the language used carry significant weight and meaning in conveying theological truths. It stands in contrast to views that might suggest only the overarching messages or themes of Scripture are inspired while dismissing the importance of the specific phrases and terms used.

The other options present different interpretations of scriptural authority and inspiration but do not align with the comprehensive nature of verbal plenary inspiration. For example, the idea that some scripture is more authoritative than others does not align with the core tenet of verbal plenary inspiration, which claims equal inspiration across Scripture. Likewise, the limitation of inspiration to the New Testament would contradict the holistic view of Scripture being inspired as a whole.