The concept of Inspiration in Christianity

In Christianity, Inspiration is defined as the Divine influence that empowers a prophet to convey messages from God. This phenomenon primarily impacts the individual, guiding their thoughts and actions, rather than being focused solely on the written texts. It emphasizes the personal and spiritual connection between the Divine and the prophet, highlighting the significance of the prophetic experience in sharing God's messages.1
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Synonyms: Motivation, Encouragement, Stimulation, Influence, Creativity, Aspiration, Spark, Innovation, Idea

In German: Inspiration; In Swedish: Inspiration; In French: Inspiration; In Dutch: Inspiratie; In Portugese: Inspiração; In Italian: Ispirazione; In Polish: Inspiracja; In Spanish: Inspiración; In Finnish: Inspiraatio; In Malay: Inspirasi

The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.

Christian concept of 'Inspiration'

Christianity Books

Significance in Christianity (general):

From: A Dictionary of the Bible (Hastings)

(1) This term is related to the new creation, where man is united to God, as stated in the text, offering context to the concepts discussed.[1] (2) The Divine influence on a prophet that compels them to communicate God's messages, primarily affecting the individual rather than the written word.[2]

From: Expositions of Holy Scripture

(1) This is one of the reasons to look at the fair life unrolled before us in the pages of the Gospels, providing a pattern and motive for service.[3] (2) This is the contemplation of the gifts of God, the voice of His beseechings, the monitions of His Spirit, the message of His Son, and the invitation of God, which should drive us to walk worthy of the vocation.[4]

From: Bible cyclopedia, critical and expository

(1) This is the attestation of the apostles' and evangelists' inspiration by their miracles, which is a demonstration of their divine authority.[5]

Significance in Early Christian church and writers:
Early Christianity Books

From: Ante-nicene Fathers

(1) A concept used to describe the origin of the soul, contrasting with the idea of adaptation of matter. It is something that comes from God.[6] (2) This is the very essence of God's breath within humanity, and it is the love-charm that is within humans, representing the connection between humans and the divine.[7]

Early Christianity (also known as Early Church) refers to the period starting roughly in the 6th century BC up until 325 A.D. during which year the first council of Nicaea was convened. Popular literature includes the writings by the early Church Fathers which forms the basis of later Christian theology.