The Authority of Scripture Authority Five Primary Views

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The Authority of Scripture

The Authority of Scripture

Authority Five Primary Views: 1. Sola Ecclesia 2. Prima Scriptura 3. Regula Fidei 4.

Authority Five Primary Views: 1. Sola Ecclesia 2. Prima Scriptura 3. Regula Fidei 4. Sola Scriptura 5. Solo Scriptura

2 Thessalonians 2: 14 -15 – “To this he called you through our gospel,

2 Thessalonians 2: 14 -15 – “To this he called you through our gospel, so that you may obtain the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ. So then, brothers, stand firm and hold to the traditions that you were taught by us, either by our spoken word or by our letter. ” n 2 Thessalonians 3: 6 – “Now we command you, brothers, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that you keep away from any brother who is walking in idleness and not in accord with the tradition that you received from us. ” n

Authority Tradition 1 n A “summary” of Christian orthodoxy that has been held by

Authority Tradition 1 n A “summary” of Christian orthodoxy that has been held by the Church since its inception. It is infallible only because it accurately represents Scripture. If it does not accurately represent Scripture, it is not true Tradition. Therefore, it is subject to the Scripture. Often referred to as the regula fidei or Rule of Faith.

Authority Tradition 2 An infallible unwritten body of material that contains information beyond that

Authority Tradition 2 An infallible unwritten body of material that contains information beyond that which is contained in Scripture (e. g. Marian dogmas, infallibility of the pope). This Tradition began with the Apostles’ teaching and is passed on through a succession of bishops. It is only revealed when issues arise that make it necessary for a pope or a council to speak authoritatively from this “deposit” of information. Often referred to as “living Tradition. ”

Authority Five Primary Views: 1. Sola Ecclesia 2. Prima Scriptura 3. Regula Fidei 4.

Authority Five Primary Views: 1. Sola Ecclesia 2. Prima Scriptura 3. Regula Fidei 4. Sola Scriptura 5. Solo Scriptura

Authority Sola Ecclesia: Belief that Tradition, represented by the magisterial authority of the Roman

Authority Sola Ecclesia: Belief that Tradition, represented by the magisterial authority of the Roman Catholic Church, is infallible and equal to Scripture as a basis for doctrine; it is the final authority in all matters of faith and practice since it must define and interpret Scripture. Adherents: Roman Catholics Tradition: Tradition 2 Alternate name: Dual-source theory

Authority Back Experience Emotions General Revelation Reason Tradition Scripture Front

Authority Back Experience Emotions General Revelation Reason Tradition Scripture Front

Trend in Roman Catholic Church n n n The two-source theory was eventually made

Trend in Roman Catholic Church n n n The two-source theory was eventually made official church dogma at the Council of Trent (1545 -1563). Rome is gradually moving toward a onesource concept of revelation… …but the one source of revelation is the Roman magisterium.

Keith Mathison (After Darkness, Light) “What these churches do not seem to understand is

Keith Mathison (After Darkness, Light) “What these churches do not seem to understand is that a claim to greater authority than that of Scripture is a claim to greater authority than that of God. Such a claim is nothing short of blasphemy. If Scripture truly is the word of almighty God, then the issue of final authority is settled. ”

Authority Five Primary Views: 1. Sola Ecclesia 2. Prima Scriptura 3. Regula Fidei 4.

Authority Five Primary Views: 1. Sola Ecclesia 2. Prima Scriptura 3. Regula Fidei 4. Sola Scriptura 5. Solo Scriptura

Authority Prima Scriptura: Belief that the Body of Christ has two separate sources of

Authority Prima Scriptura: Belief that the Body of Christ has two separate sources of authority for faith and practice: 1) the Scriptures and 2) Tradition. Scripture is the primary source for authority, but by itself it is insufficient for all matters of faith and practice. Tradition also contains essential elements needed for the productive Christian life. Adherents: Some Roman Catholics, some Eastern Orthodox, some Protestants. Tradition: Tradition 2

Authority Back Experience Emotions General Revelation Reason Tradition Scripture Front

Authority Back Experience Emotions General Revelation Reason Tradition Scripture Front

Authority Five Primary Views: 1. Sola Ecclesia 2. Prima Scriptura 3. Regula Fidei 4.

Authority Five Primary Views: 1. Sola Ecclesia 2. Prima Scriptura 3. Regula Fidei 4. Sola Scriptura 5. Solo Scriptura

Authority Regula fidei: Adherents: Tradition: Lit. “Rule of faith. ” Belief that tradition is

Authority Regula fidei: Adherents: Tradition: Lit. “Rule of faith. ” Belief that tradition is an infallible “summary” of Scripture passed on through apostolic succession. Ultimately, there is only one source of revelation, but two sources of authority. In other words, Tradition is Scripture. Eastern Orthodoxy, early Church, some evangelicals. Tradition 1

Authority Back Experience Emotions General Revelation Reason Tradition= Scripture Front

Authority Back Experience Emotions General Revelation Reason Tradition= Scripture Front

Authority Five Primary Views: 1. Sola Ecclesia 2. Prima Scriptura 3. Regula Fidei 4.

Authority Five Primary Views: 1. Sola Ecclesia 2. Prima Scriptura 3. Regula Fidei 4. Sola Scriptura 5. Solo Scriptura

Authority Sola Scriptura: Belief that Scripture is the final and only infallible authority for

Authority Sola Scriptura: Belief that Scripture is the final and only infallible authority for the Christian in all matters of faith and practice. (one source) Adherents: Evangelicals, Reformers Tradition: Tradition 1

Sola Scriptura n n n Luther and the Reformers did not mean that the

Sola Scriptura n n n Luther and the Reformers did not mean that the Bible is the only authority in the church. Rather, they meant that the Bible is the only infallible authority in the church. Example: Respect for great councils of Nicea, Ephesus, Chalcedon, and Constantinople Example: Calvin’s admiration of Augustine

Sola Scriptura n Sola fide – faith alone, but a faith that is not

Sola Scriptura n Sola fide – faith alone, but a faith that is not alone. n n Works testify of faith. Sola scriptura – scripture alone, but scripture that is not alone. n Traditions of Councils, Creeds, and the Fathers guide our interpretation.

R. C. Sproul – “Protestant churches have tended to be confessional in character. Subscription

R. C. Sproul – “Protestant churches have tended to be confessional in character. Subscription to confessions and creeds has been mandatory for the clergy and parish of many denominations. Confessions have been used as a test of orthodoxy and conformity to the faith and practice of the church. But the confessions are all regarded as reformable. They are considered reformable because they are considered fallible. ”

Keith Mathison, speaking of the Apostles’ Creed – “The Creed was essentially a continuation

Keith Mathison, speaking of the Apostles’ Creed – “The Creed was essentially a continuation of the regula fidei, expressing the same truths in a fuller way. ” Michael Horton – “Although the Reformation sought to purge the church of medieval superstitions and additions to apostolic Christianity, the Reformers staunchly defended the Nicene and Apostles’ Creeds as necessary for genuine Christian profession. ”

Sola Scriptura “. . . contend earnestly for the faith that was once for

Sola Scriptura “. . . contend earnestly for the faith that was once for all entrusted to the saints. ” —Jude 1: 3 Church Unwritten tradition (paradosis)/ summary of the Gospel message Deposit of Faith Scripture Written Infallible Tradition Age of the Apostles 400 AD Age of the Church 1000 AD

Authority Back Experience Emotions General Revelation Tradition Reason Scripture Front

Authority Back Experience Emotions General Revelation Tradition Reason Scripture Front

Authority Five Primary Views: 1. Sola Ecclesia 2. Prima Scriptura 3. Regula Fidei 4.

Authority Five Primary Views: 1. Sola Ecclesia 2. Prima Scriptura 3. Regula Fidei 4. Sola Scriptura 5. Solo Scriptura

Authority Solo Scriptura: Belief that Scripture is the sole basis and authority in the

Authority Solo Scriptura: Belief that Scripture is the sole basis and authority in the life of the Christian. Tradition is useless and misleading, and creeds and confessions are the result of man -made traditions. Adherents: Fundamentalism, Restoration Churches (radical reformers) Tradition: None (or Tradition 0)

Solo Scriptura “. . . contend earnestly for the faith that was once for

Solo Scriptura “. . . contend earnestly for the faith that was once for all entrusted to the saints. ” —Jude 1: 3 Deposit of Faith Age of the Apostles Scripture Written Infallible Tradition 400 AD Age of the Church 1000 AD

Authority Back Scripture Front

Authority Back Scripture Front

Alexander Campbell, Founder of the Disciples of Christ “I have endeavored to read the

Alexander Campbell, Founder of the Disciples of Christ “I have endeavored to read the Scriptures as though no one has read them before me, and I am as much on my guard against reading them today, through the medium of my own views yesterday, or a week ago, as I am against being influenced by any foreign name, authority system whatever. ”

Radical Reformers The radical Reformers believed that the classical Reformers had not gone far

Radical Reformers The radical Reformers believed that the classical Reformers had not gone far enough in their application of the principle of sola Scriptura. According to the radical Reformers, the classical Reformers were making a mistake by continuing to adhere to the creedal formulations of the ancient church.

Keith Mathison n “Tradition 0 was used during the nineteenth and early twentieth centuries

Keith Mathison n “Tradition 0 was used during the nineteenth and early twentieth centuries to deny every fundamental doctrine of Christianity, including the Trinity, the deity of Christ, the inspiration of Scripture, the Resurrection, and the Atonement. ” n “If we adopt the individualistic doctrine of Tradition 0, it is not possible to settle any debate because the final authority is each individual. ”

Individualistic Respect for Authority Absolute Individualism Absolute Authoritarianism Sola Ecclesia Prima Scriptura Dual-source view

Individualistic Respect for Authority Absolute Individualism Absolute Authoritarianism Sola Ecclesia Prima Scriptura Dual-source view of authority and revelation Regula fidei Sola Scriptura Solo Scriptura Single-source view of authority and revelation

Roman Catholicism Eastern Orthodoxy Reformed Radical (Protestants) Individualistic Respect for Authority Absolute Individualism Absolute

Roman Catholicism Eastern Orthodoxy Reformed Radical (Protestants) Individualistic Respect for Authority Absolute Individualism Absolute Authoritarianism Sola Ecclesia Prima Scriptura Dual- source view of authority and revelation Regula fidei Sola Scriptura Solo Scriptura Single-source view of authority and revelation

High View of Scripture Supreme View of Tradition Low View of Tradition Individualistic Respect

High View of Scripture Supreme View of Tradition Low View of Tradition Individualistic Respect for Authority Absolute Individualism Absolute Authoritarianism Sola Ecclesia Tradition, represented by the magisterial authority of the Roman Catholic Church, is infallible and equal to Scripture as a basis for doctrine; it is the final authority in all matters of faith and practice since it must define and interpret Scripture. Prima Scriptura Regula fidei Sola Scripture is the primary and only infallible authority for the Christian in all matters of faith and practice. Tradition, as represented by the Church, is important and useful, but not paramount and infallible. Tradition is true to the degree that it agrees with Scripture. Solo Scriptura Scripture is the sole basis and authority in the life of the Christian; Tradition is useless and misleading. Creeds and confessions are the result of man -made traditions.

Roman Catholicism Eastern Orthodoxy Reformed Radical (Protestants) Individualistic Respect for Authority Absolute Individualism Absolute

Roman Catholicism Eastern Orthodoxy Reformed Radical (Protestants) Individualistic Respect for Authority Absolute Individualism Absolute Authoritarianism Sola Ecclesia Catholic Counter. Reformation Prima Scriptura Regula fidei Sola Scriptura Early Church Through Reformation Solo Scriptura Radical Reformation

Bible Churches Reformed Independent Churches Lutherans Disciples of Christ Methodists Baptists Anglicans Roman Catholic

Bible Churches Reformed Independent Churches Lutherans Disciples of Christ Methodists Baptists Anglicans Roman Catholic Eastern Orthodox Presbyterians Sola Ecclesia Prima Scriptura Regula fidei Church of Christ Sola Scriptura Solo Scriptura

Summary Conclusions

Summary Conclusions

Keith Mathison, The Shape of Sola Scriptura “Like the Reformers, our battle must be

Keith Mathison, The Shape of Sola Scriptura “Like the Reformers, our battle must be on two fronts. Just as they had to combat the Roman Catholic position which effectively made the Church autonomous and the Radical Anabaptist position which effectively made the individual autonomous, so we too must combat both of these defective views. ”

Mathison – “Each [of these views] results in autonomy. Each results in final authority

Mathison – “Each [of these views] results in autonomy. Each results in final authority being placed somewhere other than God and His Word. ”

Mathison – “We must continue to stand firm against [the] view which ultimately results

Mathison – “We must continue to stand firm against [the] view which ultimately results in a Church which is a law unto itself. But we must also take a strong stand against those Protestants whose view ultimately results in each man being a law unto himself. Both positions are a deadly poison in the body of Christ, and both are condemned not only by Scripture itself, but also by the witness of the communion of saints throughout the history of the Church. ”

The Down Side of Enlightenment Thought in Early America n n n Anabaptistic individualism

The Down Side of Enlightenment Thought in Early America n n n Anabaptistic individualism Enlightenment rationalism Democratic populism (belief in the rights and wisdom of the common people)

American Christianity Nathan Hatch – The Democratization of American Christianity “Above all, the American

American Christianity Nathan Hatch – The Democratization of American Christianity “Above all, the American Revolution dramatically expanded the circle of people who considered themselves capable of thinking for themselves about issues of freedom, equality, sovereignty, and representation. Respect for authority, tradition, station, and education eroded. ”

Nathan Hatch – “In a culture that increasingly balked at vested interests, symbols of

Nathan Hatch – “In a culture that increasingly balked at vested interests, symbols of hierarchy, and timeless authorities, a remarkable number of people awoke one morning to find it selfevident that the priesthood of all believers meant just that—religion of, by and for the people. ”

Nathan Hatch – “Taking seriously the mandate of liberty and equality, the Christians espoused

Nathan Hatch – “Taking seriously the mandate of liberty and equality, the Christians espoused reform in three areas. First, they called for a revolution within the church to place laity and clergy on an equal footing and to exalt the conscience of the individual over the collective will of any congregation or church organization. ”

“Second, they rejected the traditions of learned theology altogether and called for a new

“Second, they rejected the traditions of learned theology altogether and called for a new view of history that welcomed inquiry and innovation. “Finally, they called for a populist hermeneutic premised on the inalienable right of every person to understand the New Testament for him or herself. ”

American Christianity n n n The Unitarian Noah Worchester argued that Christians would reject

American Christianity n n n The Unitarian Noah Worchester argued that Christians would reject the doctrine of the Trinity if they would simply study the Scriptures apart from the creeds of the Church. Charles Beecher denounced “creed power” and called for “the Bible, the whole Bible, and nothing but the Bible. ” But not all Americans adopted Tradition 0. Charles Hodge (1797 – 1878).

Scriptural Problems with Tradition 0 Acts 15: 1 “But some men came down from

Scriptural Problems with Tradition 0 Acts 15: 1 “But some men came down from Judea and were teaching the brothers, ‘Unless you are circumcised according to the custom of Moses, you cannot be saved. ’" n Response: The Council at Jerusalem n

Mathison – “The Apostles did not tell every individual believer to take their Bible

Mathison – “The Apostles did not tell every individual believer to take their Bible and decide by themselves and for themselves whether the Judaizers were correct. On the contrary, they gathered in a council as a body and discerned the truth of the matter. ”

Hermeneutical Problems with Tradition 0 Mathison – “The doctrine of solo scriptura, despite its

Hermeneutical Problems with Tradition 0 Mathison – “The doctrine of solo scriptura, despite its claims to uniquely preserve the authority of the Word of God, destroys that authority by making the meaning of Scripture dependent upon the judgment of each individual. Rather than the Word of God being the one final court of appeal, the court of appeal becomes the multiplied minds of each believer. ”

Historical Problems with Tradition 0 n n n Large segments of the Church have

Historical Problems with Tradition 0 n n n Large segments of the Church have been illiterate or without a Bible—for centuries. For these believers, the practice of solo scriptura would have been impossible. Solo scriptura requires an anachronistic reading of modern conditions back into periods of history when those conditions did not exist.

Theological Problems with Tradition 0 n Adherents to solo scriptura cannot authoritatively define the

Theological Problems with Tradition 0 n Adherents to solo scriptura cannot authoritatively define the canon. n n The canon was confirmed by church councils. Solo scriptura reduces the essential doctrines of the church to no more than opinion. n The Nicene doctrine of the Trinity and the Chalcedonian doctrine of Christ are no more authoritative than the doctrinal ideas of any opinionated Christian.

Practical Problems with Tradition 0 n Leads to schism and factionalism n n It’s

Practical Problems with Tradition 0 n Leads to schism and factionalism n n It’s the ecclesiastical equivalent of a nation with a constitution but no court of law to interpret that constitution. It negates the duty to submit to those who rule over you.

Mathison – “Scripture was given to the Church within a certain pre-existing doctrinal context

Mathison – “Scripture was given to the Church within a certain pre-existing doctrinal context that had been preached by the Apostles for decades. Solo scriptura denies the necessity of that context, and it denies the necessity of that Church. In doing so it denies Christ who established that Church and who taught that doctrine to His disciples. It is rebellion in the name of God against the authority of God for the sake of preserving the authority of man. ”

Sola Scriptura and Limited Inerrancy n n Is sola Scriptura compatible with a view

Sola Scriptura and Limited Inerrancy n n Is sola Scriptura compatible with a view of Scripture that limits inerrancy to matters of faith and practice? No, there are problems.

Problems with Limited Inerrancy n Results in “canon reduction” n n What becomes of

Problems with Limited Inerrancy n Results in “canon reduction” n n What becomes of history in the Bible? n n What parts of Scripture deal with faith? How do we escape dehistoricizing the gospel? What do we do with John 3: 12? n Christ to Nicodemus: “If I have told you earthly things and you do not believe, how can you believe if I tell you heavenly things? ”

Other Canon Reduction n n Subtraction of the Old Testament in general and the

Other Canon Reduction n n Subtraction of the Old Testament in general and the law of God in particular Sproul, “Perhaps we are living in the most antinomian period in church history. It is a time when attention to the law of God is not considered all that important. This represents a pernicious form of canon reductionism. ”

Canon Addition n There are no serious attempts today to add books to the

Canon Addition n There are no serious attempts today to add books to the Bible. Neopentecostal theology often views messages delivered in tongues or the utterance of “prophecy” as new forms of revelation. Pat Robertson routinely gets a “word of knowledge. ” n “Someone in Topeka is right this moment being healed of a goiter. ”

Canon Addition n Oral Roberts told the nation that God had revealed to him

Canon Addition n Oral Roberts told the nation that God had revealed to him that his life would be taken if he didn’t receive a large amount of money in donations. Some Christian leaders have claimed that God has “spoken to them. ” Some people say that a message from God has been “laid on their heart. ”

Two Views on the Defense of Inerrancy n n The Presuppositional Method The Evidentialist

Two Views on the Defense of Inerrancy n n The Presuppositional Method The Evidentialist Method

The Presuppositional Method n n Presupposes (assumes) that inerrancy is true and that a

The Presuppositional Method n n Presupposes (assumes) that inerrancy is true and that a rational defense of it ought not to be made, even if it could be made Argues that the Bible is self-authenticating Adherents: Cornelius Van Til and Gordon Clark Criticized for circular reasoning; other books claim divine inspiration

The Presuppositional Method n n Premise A: The Bible is the infallible Word of

The Presuppositional Method n n Premise A: The Bible is the infallible Word of God. Premise B: The Bible attests to its own infallibility. Premise C: The self-attestation of Scripture is an infallible attestation. Conclusion: The Bible is the infallible Word of God.

The Evidentialist Method n n Evidentialists affirm the validity of the arguments for the

The Evidentialist Method n n Evidentialists affirm the validity of the arguments for the existence of God and the truth of the Bible. Adherents: Thomas Aquinas, Charles Hodge, John Gerstner, R. C. Sproul

The Evidentialist Method n n n Premise A: The Bible is a basically reliable

The Evidentialist Method n n n Premise A: The Bible is a basically reliable and trustworthy document (the claim of inerrancy is not necessary) Premise B: On the basis of this reliable document we have sufficient evidence to believe confidently that Jesus Christ is the Son of God. Premise C: Jesus Christ being the Son of God is an infallible authority.

The Evidentialist Method n n n Premise D: Jesus Christ teaches that the Bible

The Evidentialist Method n n n Premise D: Jesus Christ teaches that the Bible is more than generally trustworthy: it is the very Word of God. Premise E: That the word, in that it comes from God, is utterly trustworthy because God is utterly trustworthy. Conclusion: On the basis of the infallible authority of Jesus Christ, the Church believes the Bible to be utterly trustworthy.

Is the Bible Sufficient? James Montgomery Boice Whatever Happened to the Gospel of Grace?

Is the Bible Sufficient? James Montgomery Boice Whatever Happened to the Gospel of Grace? “Today we confess the Bible’s authority, but we discount its ability to do what is necessary to draw unbelievers to Christ, enable us to grow in godliness, provide direction for our lives, and transform and revitalize society. ”

Unworthy Substitutes for the Word’s Sufficiency n n n Captivating music, moving testimonies, emotional

Unworthy Substitutes for the Word’s Sufficiency n n n Captivating music, moving testimonies, emotional appeals “signs and wonders” healings

The Cambridge Declaration “In practice, the church is guided, far too often, by the

The Cambridge Declaration “In practice, the church is guided, far too often, by the culture. Therapeutic technique, marketing strategies, and the beat of the entertainment world often have far more to say about what the church wants, how it functions and what if offers, than does the Word of God. ”

Sufficiency of the Bible 2 Timothy 3 “[1] But understand this, that in the

Sufficiency of the Bible 2 Timothy 3 “[1] But understand this, that in the last days there will come times of difficulty. [2] For people will be lovers of self, lovers of money, proud, arrogant, abusive, disobedient to their parents, ungrateful, unholy, [3] heartless, unappeasable, slanderous, without self-control, brutal, not loving good, [4] treacherous, reckless, swollen with conceit, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God, [5] having the appearance of godliness, but denying its power. Avoid such people. ”

Sufficiency of the Bible 2 Timothy 3 “[1] But understand this, that in the

Sufficiency of the Bible 2 Timothy 3 “[1] But understand this, that in the last days there will come times of difficulty. [2] For people will be lovers of self, lovers of money, proud, arrogant, abusive, disobedient to their parents, ungrateful, unholy, [3] heartless, unappeasable, slanderous, without self-control, brutal, not loving good, [4] treacherous, reckless, swollen with conceit, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God, [5] having the appearance of godliness, but denying its power. Avoid such people. ”

2 Timothy 3 “[14] But as for you, continue in what you have learned

2 Timothy 3 “[14] But as for you, continue in what you have learned and have firmly believed, knowing from whom you learned it [15] and how from childhood you have been acquainted with the sacred writings, which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus. [16] All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, [17] that the man of God may be competent, equipped for every good work. ”

2 Timothy 3 “[14] But as for you, continue in what you have learned

2 Timothy 3 “[14] But as for you, continue in what you have learned and have firmly believed, knowing from whom you learned it [15] and how from childhood you have been acquainted with the sacred writings, which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus. [16] All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, [17] that the man of God may be competent, equipped for every good work. ”

The Bible is Sufficient… n n …for Evangelism …for Sanctification …for Guidance …for Social

The Bible is Sufficient… n n …for Evangelism …for Sanctification …for Guidance …for Social Reformation

The Westminster Confession of Faith Completed in 1646

The Westminster Confession of Faith Completed in 1646

Westminster Confession of Faith n Chapter 1, Of the Holy Scripture n Ten Paragraphs

Westminster Confession of Faith n Chapter 1, Of the Holy Scripture n Ten Paragraphs

Paragraph 1 Explains the Necessity of Scripture “Although the light of nature, and the

Paragraph 1 Explains the Necessity of Scripture “Although the light of nature, and the works of creation and providence do so far manifest the goodness, wisdom, and power of God, as to leave men unexcusable; yet are they not sufficient to give that knowledge of God, and of His will, which is necessary unto salvation. Therefore, it pleased the Lord, at sundry times, and in divers manners, to reveal Himself, and to declare that His will unto His Church…

“…and afterwards, for the better preserving and propagating of the truth, and for the

“…and afterwards, for the better preserving and propagating of the truth, and for the more sure establishment and comfort of the Church against the corruption of the flesh, and the malice of Satan and of the world, to commit the same wholly unto writing: which maketh the Holy Scripture to be most necessary; those former ways of God’s revealing His will unto His people being now ceased. ”

Paragraph 2 Lists the Books of the Canon “Under the name of Holy Scripture,

Paragraph 2 Lists the Books of the Canon “Under the name of Holy Scripture, or the Word of God written, are now contained all the books of the Old and New Testament, which are these: [66 books listed] “All which are given by inspiration of God to be the rule of faith and life. ”

Paragraph 3 States the Reformed Understanding of the Apocrypha “The books commonly called Apocrypha,

Paragraph 3 States the Reformed Understanding of the Apocrypha “The books commonly called Apocrypha, not being of divine inspiration, are no part of the canon of the Scripture, and therefore are of no authority in the Church of God, nor to be any otherwise approved, or made use of, than other human writings. ”

Paragraph 4 – The Authority of Scripture Depends upon God and Not upon the

Paragraph 4 – The Authority of Scripture Depends upon God and Not upon the Testimony of Men “The authority of the Holy Scripture, for which it ought to be believed, and obeyed, dependeth not upon the testimony of any man or Church; but wholly upon God (who is truth itself) the author thereof: and therefore it is to be received, because it is the Word of God. ”

Paragraph 5 – Authority (cont) “We may be moved and induced by the testimony

Paragraph 5 – Authority (cont) “We may be moved and induced by the testimony of the Church to an high and reverent esteem of the Holy Scripture. And the heavenliness of the matter, the efficacy of the doctrine, the majesty of the style, the consent of all the parts, the scope of the whole (which is, to give all glory to God), the full discovery it makes of the only way of man’s salvation, the many other incomparable excellencies, and the entire perfection thereof, are arguments whereby it doth abundantly evidence itself to be the Word of God: …

“…yet notwithstanding, our full persuasion and assurance of the infallible truth and divine authority

“…yet notwithstanding, our full persuasion and assurance of the infallible truth and divine authority thereof, is from the inward work of the Holy Spirit bearing witness by and with the Word in our hearts. ”

Paragraph 6 – The Sufficiency of Scripture “The whole counsel of God concerning all

Paragraph 6 – The Sufficiency of Scripture “The whole counsel of God concerning all things necessary for His own glory, man’s salvation, faith and life, is either expressly set down in Scripture, or by good and necessary consequence may be deduced from Scripture: unto which nothing at any time is to be added, whether by new revelations of the Spirit, or traditions of men. ” (continued)

“Nevertheless, we acknowledge the inward illumination of the Spirit of God to be necessary

“Nevertheless, we acknowledge the inward illumination of the Spirit of God to be necessary for the saving understanding of such things as are revealed in the Word: and that there are some circumstances concerning the worship of God, and government of the Church, common to human actions and societies, which are to be ordered by the light of nature, and Christian prudence, according to the general rules of the Word, which are always to be observed. ”

Paragraph 7 – The Perspicuity of Scripture “All things in Scripture are not alike

Paragraph 7 – The Perspicuity of Scripture “All things in Scripture are not alike plain in themselves, nor alike clear unto all: yet those things which are necessary to be known, believed, and observed for salvation, are so clearly propounded, and opened in some place of Scripture or other, that not only the learned, but the unlearned, in a due use of the ordinary means, may attain unto a sufficient understanding of them. ”

Paragraph 8 – Autographs Are Inspired by God “The Old Testament in Hebrew (which

Paragraph 8 – Autographs Are Inspired by God “The Old Testament in Hebrew (which was the native language of the people of God of old), and the New Testament in Greek (which, at the time of the writing of it, was most generally known to the nations), being immediately inspired by God, and, by His singular care and providence, kept pure in all ages, are therefore authentical; so as, in all controversies of religion, the Church is finally to appeal unto them. ” (continued)

“But, because these original tongues are not known to all the people of God,

“But, because these original tongues are not known to all the people of God, who have right unto, and interest in the Scriptures, and are commanded, in the fear of God, to read and search them, therefore they are to be translated into the vulgar language of every nation unto which they come, that, the Word of God dwelling plentifully in all, they may worship Him in an acceptable manner; and, through patience and comfort of the Scriptures, may have hope. ”

Paragraph 9 – The Interpretation of Scripture “The infallible rule of interpretation of Scripture

Paragraph 9 – The Interpretation of Scripture “The infallible rule of interpretation of Scripture is the Scripture itself: and therefore, when there is a question about the true and full sense of any Scripture (which is not manifold, but one), it must be searched and known by other places that speak more clearly. ”

Paragraph 10 – The Unique Authority of Scripture “The supreme judge by which all

Paragraph 10 – The Unique Authority of Scripture “The supreme judge by which all controversies of religion are to be determined, and all decrees of councils, opinions of ancient writers, doctrines of men, and private spirits, are to be examined, and in whose sentence we are to rest, can be no other but the Holy Spirit speaking in the Scripture. ”

Hermeneutics The Science of Biblical Interpretation

Hermeneutics The Science of Biblical Interpretation

Hermeneutics n In Greek mythology… n n n …Hermes was the messenger of the

Hermeneutics n In Greek mythology… n n n …Hermes was the messenger of the gods. It was his task to interpret the will of the gods. (Most of the following notes come from Knowing Scripture by R. C. Sproul. )

The Purpose of Hermeneutics n n To establish guidelines and rules for interpretation (in

The Purpose of Hermeneutics n n To establish guidelines and rules for interpretation (in this case, Scripture) To establish guidelines and rules to safeguard us from misunderstanding

A Hermeneutical Example n The supreme board of hermeneutics for our land is… n

A Hermeneutical Example n The supreme board of hermeneutics for our land is… n …the Supreme Court (in regard to the Constitution)

Grammatico-Historical Method n The Constitution was supposed to be interpreted by studying the words

Grammatico-Historical Method n The Constitution was supposed to be interpreted by studying the words of the document itself in light of what those words meant when they were used at the time of the formulation of the document.

Grammatico-Historical Method n n n Acts 1: 8 – “You shall be my witnesses.

Grammatico-Historical Method n n n Acts 1: 8 – “You shall be my witnesses. ” Is Christ making a prediction of our future performance? Or is He issuing a command? The Greek structure clarifies: It’s a command. (We are thankful for commentaries. )

“The Analogy of Faith” n n n The primary rule of hermeneutics This rule

“The Analogy of Faith” n n n The primary rule of hermeneutics This rule is that Scripture is to interpret Scripture No part of Scripture can be interpreted in such a way as to render it in conflict with what is clearly taught elsewhere in Scripture.

Sensus Literalis n n n The second rule of hermeneutics The Bible should be

Sensus Literalis n n n The second rule of hermeneutics The Bible should be interpreted according to its literal sense. Genre analysis n n n Literary forms Figures of speech Style

Genre Analysis n n n We distinguish between lyric poetry, newspaper accounts, and legal

Genre Analysis n n n We distinguish between lyric poetry, newspaper accounts, and legal briefs. Hyperbole = exaggeration for effect Matthew 9: 35 – “And Jesus went throughout all the cities and villages, teaching in their synagogues and proclaiming the gospel of the kingdom and healing every disease and every affliction. ”

Genre Analysis n n n Personification = objects are given human characteristics Isaiah 55:

Genre Analysis n n n Personification = objects are given human characteristics Isaiah 55: 12 “For you shall go out in joy and be led forth in peace; the mountains and the hills before you shall break forth into singing, and all the trees of the field shall clap their hands. ” But what about Balaam’s ass speaking?

Genre Analysis n Metaphor = a figure of speech in which a word or

Genre Analysis n Metaphor = a figure of speech in which a word or phrase literally denoting one kind of object or idea is used in place of another so to suggest a likeness or analogy between them.

Metaphor n n John 10: 9 – “I am the door. If anyone enters

Metaphor n n John 10: 9 – “I am the door. If anyone enters by me, he will be saved and will go in and out and find pasture. ” Sproul: “Does that mean that where we have skin Jesus has mahogany veneer? Where we have arms Jesus has hinges? Where we have a navel Jesus has a doorknob? ”

But what about… n Luke 22: 19 – “This is my body…”

But what about… n Luke 22: 19 – “This is my body…”

Ten Practical Rules for Biblical Interpretation

Ten Practical Rules for Biblical Interpretation

Rule 1 - The Bible Is to Be Read Like Any Other Book

Rule 1 - The Bible Is to Be Read Like Any Other Book

Rule 2 – Read the Bible Existentially

Rule 2 – Read the Bible Existentially

Rule 3 – Historical Narratives Are to Be Interpreted by the Didactic

Rule 3 – Historical Narratives Are to Be Interpreted by the Didactic

Rule 4 – The Implicit Is to Be Interpreted by the Explicit

Rule 4 – The Implicit Is to Be Interpreted by the Explicit

Rule 5 – Determine Carefully the Meaning of Words

Rule 5 – Determine Carefully the Meaning of Words

Rule 6 – Note the Presence of Parallelisms in the Bible

Rule 6 – Note the Presence of Parallelisms in the Bible

Rule 7 – Note the Difference between Proverb and Law

Rule 7 – Note the Difference between Proverb and Law

Rule 8 – Observe the Difference between the Spirit and the Letter of the

Rule 8 – Observe the Difference between the Spirit and the Letter of the Law

Rule 9 – Be Careful with Parables

Rule 9 – Be Careful with Parables

Rule 10 – Be Careful with Predictive Prophecy

Rule 10 – Be Careful with Predictive Prophecy