Few doctrines are more frequently misunderstood than Sola Scriptura. Some assume it teaches that Christians should reject church history, ignore creeds, dismiss pastors, and rely only on their own interpretation of the Bible. Historically, however, that was never the Reformers’ position.
The Reformers affirmed that God has given His church many valuable helps—faithful pastors, historic creeds, church councils, theologians, and centuries of biblical study. These are genuine gifts to the church and should not be ignored.
The question is not whether these authorities have value, but whether any of them possess authority equal to Scripture.
The accompanying Apples of Gold article explores what Sola Scriptura really means, why Scripture alone is the church’s final authority, and how Christians should properly understand the role of church history, tradition, pastors, and theological writings.
Questions for Discussion
-
What do you think Sola Scriptura means?
-
Does Sola Scriptura teach that the Bible is the only authority Christians have, or the final authority? Why?
-
What role should church history and the early church fathers play in our understanding of Scripture?
-
Are creeds and confessions helpful today? Why or why not?
-
How should Christians balance respect for pastors and teachers with the Berean practice of testing everything by Scripture?
-
Have you ever changed your view on a doctrine after studying Scripture more carefully?
I look forward to hearing your thoughts.
Related Apples of Gold article: