Rev. James D. Conley, D.D., S.T.L. | Diocese of Lincoln website

Whether the stories in the Bible are factual or merely didactic has long been a topic of debate. The answer often hinges on what the biblical authors, both divine and human, intended to convey. If an author aimed to provide an accurate historical account, people of faith may accept it based on scriptural authority, church testimony, and supporting evidence. Conversely, if the purpose was to teach a lesson without asserting factual accuracy, then it is understood as such.

This distinction has sparked extensive discussion throughout history among theologians and historians. Questions about events like creation or Jesus' resurrection have been debated for centuries. It is important to clarify that 'story' does not necessarily equate to 'fiction.' A story can recount actual events while being presented narratively.

To understand a biblical text's intent, one should examine its claims and details within the text itself and any corroborating evidence from other sources. The choice of literary genre also plays a crucial role in determining intent; some narratives aim to report actual events while others use poetic or parabolic forms.

Sometimes external evidence supports biblical accounts, but its absence doesn't automatically discredit them. British historian Alan Millard noted that "absence of evidence is not the evidence of absence." Scientific research often bolsters confidence in biblical historicity rather than undermining it.

Biblical narratives are selective in their content and perspective-driven by God's viewpoint on events' significance rather than mere factual recounting. As one author stated: “reading a biblical story is like observing a polished gem.”

Regarding Noah's Flood: it is recounted as historical narrative with corroborative testimony across several texts (Genesis 6-9; Matthew 24:37-44; Luke 17:26-27). While interpretations differ on whether it was global or regional, these variations do not alter its depiction as factual within scripture—a story both depictional and artful.