Study Reformed

1.1. Of the Holy 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 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.

Proof texts

Rom. 2:14, 15 — [14] For when Gentiles, who do not have the law, by nature do what the law requires, they are a law to themselves, even though they do not have the law. [15] They show that the work of the law is written on their hearts, while their conscience also bears witness, and their conflicting thoughts accuse or even excuse them
Rom. 1:19, 20 — [19] For what can be known about God is plain to them, because God has shown it to them. [20] For his invisible attributes, namely, his eternal power and divine nature, have been clearly perceived, ever since the creation of the world, in the things that have been made. So they are without excuse.
Ps. 19:1, 2, 3 — [1] The heavens declare the glory of God, and the sky above proclaims his handiwork. [2] Day to day pours out speech, and night to night reveals knowledge. [3] There is no speech, nor are there words, whose voice is not heard.
Rom. 1:32, 2:1 — [32] Though they know God's righteous decree that those who practice such things deserve to die, they not only do them but give approval to those who practice them.
1 Cor. 1:21 — [21] For since, in the wisdom of God, the world did not know God through wisdom, it pleased God through the folly of what we preach to save those who believe.
1 Cor. 2:13, 14 — [13] And we impart this in words not taught by human wisdom but taught by the Spirit, interpreting spiritual truths to those who are spiritual. [14] The natural person does not accept the things of the Spirit of God, for they are folly to him, and he is not able to understand them because they are spiritually discerned.
Heb. 1:1 — [1] Long ago, at many times and in many ways, God spoke to our fathers by the prophets,
Prov. 22:19, 20, 21 — [19] That your trust may be in the LORD, I have made them known to you today, even to you. [20] Have I not written for you thirty sayings of counsel and knowledge, [21] to make you know what is right and true, that you may give a true answer to those who sent you?
Luke 1:3, 4 — [3] it seemed good to me also, having followed all things closely for some time past, to write an orderly account for you, most excellent Theophilus, [4] that you may have certainty concerning the things you have been taught.
Rom. 15:4 — [4] For whatever was written in former days was written for our instruction, that through endurance and through the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope.
Matt. 4:4, 7, 10 — [4] But he answered, “It is written, “‘Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that comes from the mouth of God.’” [7] Jesus said to him, “Again it is written, ‘You shall not put the Lord your God to the test.’” [10] Then Jesus said to him, “Be gone, Satan! For it is written, “‘You shall worship the Lord your God and him only shall you serve.’”
Isa. 8:19, 20 — [19] And when they say to you, “Inquire of the mediums and the necromancers who chirp and mutter,” should not a people inquire of their God? Should they inquire of the dead on behalf of the living? [20] To the teaching and to the testimony! If they will not speak according to this word, it is because they have no dawn.
2 Tim. 3:15 — [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.
2 Pet. 1:19 — [19] And we have the prophetic word more fully confirmed, to which you will do well to pay attention as to a lamp shining in a dark place, until the day dawns and the morning star rises in your hearts,
Heb. 1:1, 2 — [1] Long ago, at many times and in many ways, God spoke to our fathers by the prophets, [2] but in these last days he has spoken to us by his Son, whom he appointed the heir of all things, through whom also he created the world.

For discussion

The Assembly cited Rom. 2:14, 15 in support of this answer. Read it in context — how does it bear on what is claimed here?
15 passages are cited here. Which does the most work, and is anything claimed that the proofs do not obviously carry?
WSC Q1 treats the same ground. What does it add, and why might it put things differently?
WSC Q2 treats the same ground. What does it add, and why might it put things differently?

Read alongside

WSC Q1 · WSC Q2 · WSC Q3 · WLC Q1 · WLC Q2 · WLC Q3 · WLC Q4 · WLC Q5 · HC Q1 · HC Q2 · BC 1.1 · BC 1.2 · BC 1.3 · BC 1.4 · BC 1.5 · BC 1.6 · BC 1.7

Leader's notes

A Commentary on the Confession of Faith (A.A. Hodge): This section teaches the following propositions : 1st. The inspired Scriptures of the Old and New Testament are a complete rule of faith and practice ; they embrace the whole of whatever supernatural revelation God now makes to men, and are abundantly sufficient for all the practical necessities of men or communities. This is proved (a) from the design of Scripture. It professes to lead us to God. Whatever is necessary to that end it must teach us. If any supplementary knowledge is necessary, it must refer to it. Incompleteness in such an undertaking would be falsehood. But (6) while Christ and his apostles constantly refer to Scripture as an authoritative rule, neither they nor the Scriptures themselves ever refer…

An Exposition of the Confession of Faith (Robert Shaw): There are few doctrines of supernatural revelation that have not, in one period or another, been denied or controverted ; and it is a peculiar excellence of the Westminster Confession of Faith, that its compilers have stated the several articles in terms the best calculated, not only to convey an accurate idea of sacred truths, but to guard against contrary errors. In opposition, . on the one hand, to those who deny the existence of natural religion, and, on the other hand, in opposition to Deists, who maintain the sufficiency of the light of nature to guide men to eternal happiness, this section asserts, — • 1. That a knowledge of the existence of God, and a number of his…

1.2. Of the Holy Scripture

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: Of the Old Testament: Genesis Exodus Leviticus Numbers Deuteronomy Joshua Judges Ruth I. Samuel II. Samuel I. Kings II. Kings I. Chronicles II. Chronicles Ezra Nehemiah Esther Job Psalms Proverbs Ecclesiastes The Song of Songs Isaiah Jeremiah Lamentations Ezekiel Daniel Hosea Joel Amos Obadiah Jonah Micah Nahum Habakkuk Zephaniah Haggai Zechariah Malachi Of the New Testament: The Gospels according to Matthew Mark Luke John The Acts of the Apostles Paul’s Epistles To the Romans Corinthians I. Corinthians II. Galatians Ephesians Philippians Colossians Thessalonians I. Thessalonians II. To Timothy I. To Timothy II. To Titus To Philemon The Epistle to the Hebrews The Epistle of James The first and second Epistles of Peter The first, second, and third Epistles of John The Epistle of Jude The Revelation of John All which are given by inspiration of God, to be the rule of faith and life.

Proof texts

Luke 16:29, 31 — [29] But Abraham said, ‘They have Moses and the Prophets; let them hear them.’ [31] He said to him, ‘If they do not hear Moses and the Prophets, neither will they be convinced if someone should rise from the dead.’”
Eph. 2:20 — [20] built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Christ Jesus himself being the cornerstone,
Rev. 22:18, 19 — [18] I warn everyone who hears the words of the prophecy of this book: if anyone adds to them, God will add to him the plagues described in this book, [19] and if anyone takes away from the words of the book of this prophecy, God will take away his share in the tree of life and in the holy city, which are described in this book.
2 Tim. 3:16 — [16] All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness,

For discussion

The Assembly cited Luke 16:29, 31 in support of this answer. Read it in context — how does it bear on what is claimed here?
4 passages are cited here. Which does the most work, and is anything claimed that the proofs do not obviously carry?
WSC Q2 treats the same ground. What does it add, and why might it put things differently?
WLC Q3 treats the same ground. What does it add, and why might it put things differently?

Read alongside

WSC Q2 · WLC Q3 · WLC Q1 · WLC Q2 · WLC Q4 · WLC Q5 · WSC Q1 · WSC Q3 · BC 1.1 · BC 1.2 · HC Q1 · HC Q2 · BC 1.3 · BC 1.4 · BC 1.5 · BC 1.6 · BC 1.7 · 1689 1.1 · SD 1.1 · IAR 1.1 · SC60 6.4 · SHC 1.1 · SHC 1.2

Leader's notes

A Commentary on the Confession of Faith (A.A. Hodge): this section teaches — 3d. That all the canonical Scriptures were divinely inspired, and are thus given us as an authoritative rvle of faith and practice. The books of Scripture were written by the instrumentality of men, and the national and personal peculiarities of their authors have been evidently as freely expressed in their writing, and their natural faculti(«i, intellectual and moral, as freely exercised in their production, as those of the authors of any other writings. Nevertheless, these books are, one and all, in thought and verbal expression, in substance and form, wholly the Word of God, conveying, with absolute accuracy and divine authority, all that God meant them to convey, without any human additions or admixtures. This was…

An Exposition of the Confession of Faith (Robert Shaw): These sections relate to the true canon, and the divine inspiration of the Holy Scriptures. In opposition to the Romish Church, which reckons the apocryphal books of equal authority with the Scriptures, it is asserted that these books are no part of the canon of the Scripture ; and in opposition to the Deists, who deny that the Scriptures of the Old and New 8 CONFESSION OP FAITH. QciIAP, I. Testaments are the Word of God, it is affirmed that all the sacred books are given by inspiration of God. The term Scriptures signifies writings in general, but is appropriated to the Word of God, which is also, by way of eminency, called the Bible, or 600^, because it is…

1.3. Of the Holy Scripture

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.

Proof texts

Luke 24:27, 44 — [27] And beginning with Moses and all the Prophets, he interpreted to them in all the Scriptures the things concerning himself. [44] Then he said to them, “These are my words that I spoke to you while I was still with you, that everything written about me in the Law of Moses and the Prophets and the Psalms must be fulfilled.”
Rom. 3:2 — [2] Much in every way. To begin with, the Jews were entrusted with the oracles of God.
2 Pet. 1:21 — [21] For no prophecy was ever produced by the will of man, but men spoke from God as they were carried along by the Holy Spirit.

For discussion

The Assembly cited Luke 24:27, 44 in support of this answer. Read it in context — how does it bear on what is claimed here?
3 passages are cited here. Which does the most work, and is anything claimed that the proofs do not obviously carry?
WSC Q2 treats the same ground. What does it add, and why might it put things differently?
WLC Q3 treats the same ground. What does it add, and why might it put things differently?

Read alongside

WSC Q2 · WLC Q3 · WLC Q1 · WLC Q2 · WLC Q4 · WLC Q5 · WSC Q1 · WSC Q3 · BC 1.1 · BC 1.2 · HC Q1 · HC Q2 · BC 1.3 · BC 1.4 · BC 1.5 · BC 1.6 · BC 1.7 · 1689 1.1 · SD 1.1 · IAR 1.1 · SC60 6.4 · SHC 1.1 · SHC 1.2

Leader's notes

A Commentary on the Confession of Faith (A.A. Hodge): this section teaches — 3d. That all the canonical Scriptures were divinely inspired, and are thus given us as an authoritative rvle of faith and practice. The books of Scripture were written by the instrumentality of men, and the national and personal peculiarities of their authors have been evidently as freely expressed in their writing, and their natural faculti(«i, intellectual and moral, as freely exercised in their production, as those of the authors of any other writings. Nevertheless, these books are, one and all, in thought and verbal expression, in substance and form, wholly the Word of God, conveying, with absolute accuracy and divine authority, all that God meant them to convey, without any human additions or admixtures. This was…

An Exposition of the Confession of Faith (Robert Shaw): These sections relate to the true canon, and the divine inspiration of the Holy Scriptures. In opposition to the Romish Church, which reckons the apocryphal books of equal authority with the Scriptures, it is asserted that these books are no part of the canon of the Scripture ; and in opposition to the Deists, who deny that the Scriptures of the Old and New 8 CONFESSION OP FAITH. QciIAP, I. Testaments are the Word of God, it is affirmed that all the sacred books are given by inspiration of God. The term Scriptures signifies writings in general, but is appropriated to the Word of God, which is also, by way of eminency, called the Bible, or 600^, because it is…

1.4. Of the Holy Scripture

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.

Proof texts

2 Pet. 1:19, 21 — [19] And we have the prophetic word more fully confirmed, to which you will do well to pay attention as to a lamp shining in a dark place, until the day dawns and the morning star rises in your hearts, [21] For no prophecy was ever produced by the will of man, but men spoke from God as they were carried along by the Holy Spirit.
2 Tim. 3:16 — [16] All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness,
1 John 5:9 — [9] If we receive the testimony of men, the testimony of God is greater, for this is the testimony of God that he has borne concerning his Son.
1 Thess. 2:13 — [13] And we also thank God constantly for this, that when you received the word of God, which you heard from us, you accepted it not as the word of men but as what it really is, the word of God, which is at work in you believers.

For discussion

The Assembly cited 2 Pet. 1:19, 21 in support of this answer. Read it in context — how does it bear on what is claimed here?
4 passages are cited here. Which does the most work, and is anything claimed that the proofs do not obviously carry?
WSC Q2 treats the same ground. What does it add, and why might it put things differently?
WLC Q4 treats the same ground. What does it add, and why might it put things differently?

Read alongside

WSC Q2 · WLC Q4 · WLC Q1 · WLC Q2 · WLC Q3 · WLC Q5 · WSC Q1 · WSC Q3 · BC 1.1 · BC 1.2 · HC Q1 · HC Q2 · BC 1.3 · BC 1.4 · BC 1.5 · BC 1.6 · BC 1.7 · 1689 1.1 · SD 1.1 · IAR 1.1 · SC60 6.4 · SHC 1.1 · SHC 1.2

Leader's notes

A Commentary on the Confession of Faith (A.A. Hodge): This section teaches the following propositions : 1st. That the authority of the inspired Scriptures does not rest upon the testimony of the Church, but directly upon God. This proposition is designed to deny the Romish heresy that the inspired Church is the ultimate source of all divine knowledge, and that the written Scripture and ecclesiastical tradition alike depend upon theauthoritative seal of the Church for their credibility. They thus make the S(Tiptures a product of the Spirit through the Church, while in fact the Church is a product of the Spirit through the instrumentality of the word. It is true that the testimony of the early Church to the apostolic authorship of the several books is of fundamental importance…

An Exposition of the Confession of Faith (Robert Shaw): These sections teach us, that the authority of the ScripturdT' depends not upon any man or Church, but wholly upon God, the author thereof, and then points out the e\ddences that the Scriptui-e is the Word of God. The first of these heads is stated in opposition to the Papists, who maintain that the authority of the Scriptures is derived from the Church. The absurdity of this idea is easily evinced. The true Church of Christ is founded on the Scriptures, and therefore the authority of the Scriptures cannot depend on the Church. — Eph. ii. 20. That the Holy Scripture is the Word of God, is proved both by external and internal evidences. 1 . The external evidences are…

1.5. Of the Holy Scripture

We may be moved and induced by the testimony of the Church to a 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 thereof, is from the inward work of the Holy Spirit bearing witness by and with the Word in our hearts.

Proof texts

1 Tim. 3:15 — [15] if I delay, you may know how one ought to behave in the household of God, which is the church of the living God, a pillar and buttress of the truth.
1 John 2:20, 27 — [20] But you have been anointed by the Holy One, and you all have knowledge. [27] But the anointing that you received from him abides in you, and you have no need that anyone should teach you. But as his anointing teaches you about everything, and is true, and is no lie — just as it has taught you, abide in him.
John 16:13, 14 — [13] When the Spirit of truth comes, he will guide you into all the truth, for he will not speak on his own authority, but whatever he hears he will speak, and he will declare to you the things that are to come. [14] He will glorify me, for he will take what is mine and declare it to you.
1 Cor. 2:10, 11, 12 — [10] these things God has revealed to us through the Spirit. For the Spirit searches everything, even the depths of God. [11] For who knows a person's thoughts except the spirit of that person, which is in him? So also no one comprehends the thoughts of God except the Spirit of God. [12] Now we have received not the spirit of the world, but the Spirit who is from God, that we might understand the things freely given us by God.
Isa. 59:21 — [21] “And as for me, this is my covenant with them,” says the LORD: “My Spirit that is upon you, and my words that I have put in your mouth, shall not depart out of your mouth, or out of the mouth of your offspring, or out of the mouth of your children's offspring,” says the LORD, “from this time forth and forevermore.”

For discussion

The Assembly cited 1 Tim. 3:15 in support of this answer. Read it in context — how does it bear on what is claimed here?
5 passages are cited here. Which does the most work, and is anything claimed that the proofs do not obviously carry?
WSC Q2 treats the same ground. What does it add, and why might it put things differently?
WLC Q4 treats the same ground. What does it add, and why might it put things differently?

Read alongside

WSC Q2 · WLC Q4 · WLC Q1 · WLC Q2 · WLC Q3 · WLC Q5 · WSC Q1 · WSC Q3 · BC 1.1 · BC 1.2 · HC Q1 · HC Q2 · BC 1.3 · BC 1.4 · BC 1.5 · BC 1.6 · BC 1.7 · 1689 1.1 · SD 1.1 · IAR 1.1 · SC60 6.4 · SHC 1.1 · SHC 1.2

Leader's notes

A Commentary on the Confession of Faith (A.A. Hodge): This section teaches the following propositions : 1st. That the authority of the inspired Scriptures does not rest upon the testimony of the Church, but directly upon God. This proposition is designed to deny the Romish heresy that the inspired Church is the ultimate source of all divine knowledge, and that the written Scripture and ecclesiastical tradition alike depend upon theauthoritative seal of the Church for their credibility. They thus make the S(Tiptures a product of the Spirit through the Church, while in fact the Church is a product of the Spirit through the instrumentality of the word. It is true that the testimony of the early Church to the apostolic authorship of the several books is of fundamental importance…

An Exposition of the Confession of Faith (Robert Shaw): These sections teach us, that the authority of the ScripturdT' depends not upon any man or Church, but wholly upon God, the author thereof, and then points out the e\ddences that the Scriptui-e is the Word of God. The first of these heads is stated in opposition to the Papists, who maintain that the authority of the Scriptures is derived from the Church. The absurdity of this idea is easily evinced. The true Church of Christ is founded on the Scriptures, and therefore the authority of the Scriptures cannot depend on the Church. — Eph. ii. 20. That the Holy Scripture is the Word of God, is proved both by external and internal evidences. 1 . The external evidences are…

1.6. Of the Holy 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. 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.

Proof texts

2 Tim. 3:15, 16, 17 — [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 complete, equipped for every good work.
Gal. 1:8, 9 — [8] But even if we or an angel from heaven should preach to you a gospel contrary to the one we preached to you, let him be accursed. [9] As we have said before, so now I say again: If anyone is preaching to you a gospel contrary to the one you received, let him be accursed.
2 Thess. 2:2 — [2] not to be quickly shaken in mind or alarmed, either by a spirit or a spoken word, or a letter seeming to be from us, to the effect that the day of the Lord has come.
John 6:45, 1 Cor. 2:9–12 — [45] It is written in the Prophets, ‘And they will all be taught by God.’ Everyone who has heard and learned from the Father comes to me —
1 Cor. 11:13, 14 — [13] Judge for yourselves: is it proper for a wife to pray to God with her head uncovered? [14] Does not nature itself teach you that if a man wears long hair it is a disgrace for him,
1 Cor. 14:26, 40 — [26] What then, brothers? When you come together, each one has a hymn, a lesson, a revelation, a tongue, or an interpretation. Let all things be done for building up. [40] But all things should be done decently and in order.

For discussion

The Assembly cited 2 Tim. 3:15, 16, 17 in support of this answer. Read it in context — how does it bear on what is claimed here?
6 passages are cited here. Which does the most work, and is anything claimed that the proofs do not obviously carry?
WSC Q2 treats the same ground. What does it add, and why might it put things differently?
WSC Q3 treats the same ground. What does it add, and why might it put things differently?

Read alongside

WSC Q2 · WSC Q3 · WLC Q3 · WLC Q5 · WLC Q1 · WLC Q2 · WLC Q4 · WSC Q1 · BC 1.1 · BC 1.2 · HC Q1 · HC Q2 · BC 1.3 · BC 1.4 · BC 1.5 · BC 1.6 · BC 1.7 · 1689 1.1 · SD 1.1 · IAR 1.1 · SC60 6.4 · SHC 1.1 · SHC 1.2

Leader's notes

A Commentary on the Confession of Faith (A.A. Hodge): This section teaches the following propositions : 1st. The inspired Scriptures of the Old and New Testament are a complete rule of faith and practice ; they embrace the whole of whatever supernatural revelation God now makes to men, and are abundantly sufficient for all the practical necessities of men or communities. This is proved (a) from the design of Scripture. It professes to lead us to God. Whatever is necessary to that end it must teach us. If any supplementary knowledge is necessary, it must refer to it. Incompleteness in such an undertaking would be falsehood. But (6) while Christ and his apostles constantly refer to Scripture as an authoritative rule, neither they nor the Scriptures themselves ever refer…

An Exposition of the Confession of Faith (Robert Shaw): These sections relate to the perfection and perspicuity of the Scriptures. 1, In regard to the ])erfection, or sufficiency, of the Scriptures, it is acknowledged that there are some circumstances concerning the worship of God, and government of the Church, in regard to which no express injunctions are given in Scripture, and which are to be ordered by the light of nature and Christian prudence, according to the general rules of the Word. The Apostolic rule in such cases is, — " Let all things be done decently and in order," — 1 Cor. xiv. 40 ; but this general iide does not authorise the introduction into the Church of rites and ceremonies of human invention, in order to set…

1.7. Of the Holy 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.

Proof texts

2 Pet. 3:16 — [16] as he does in all his letters when he speaks in them of these matters. There are some things in them that are hard to understand, which the ignorant and unstable twist to their own destruction, as they do the other Scriptures.
Psalm 119:105, 130 — [105] Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path. [130] The unfolding of your words gives light; it imparts understanding to the simple.

For discussion

The Assembly cited 2 Pet. 3:16 in support of this answer. Read it in context — how does it bear on what is claimed here?
2 passages are cited here. Which does the most work, and is anything claimed that the proofs do not obviously carry?
WLC Q5 treats the same ground. What does it add, and why might it put things differently?
WLC Q1 treats the same ground. What does it add, and why might it put things differently?

Read alongside

WLC Q5 · WLC Q1 · WLC Q2 · WLC Q3 · WLC Q4 · WSC Q1 · WSC Q2 · WSC Q3 · BC 1.1 · BC 1.2 · HC Q1 · HC Q2 · BC 1.3 · BC 1.4 · BC 1.5 · BC 1.6 · BC 1.7 · 1689 1.1 · SD 1.1 · IAR 1.1 · SC60 6.4 · SHC 1.1 · SHC 1.2

Leader's notes

A Commentary on the Confession of Faith (A.A. Hodge): This section affirms that the Scriptures are in such a sense 'perspicuous that all that is necessary for man to know, in order to his salvation or for his practical guidance in duty, may be learned therefrom, and that they are designed for the personal use and are adapted to the instruction of the unlearned as well as the learned. Protestants admit that many of the truths revealed in the Scriptures in their own nature transcend human understanding, and that many prophecies remain intentionally obscure until explained by their fulfilment in the developments of history. Nevertheless, Protestants affirm and Romanists deny {a) that every essential article of faith and rule of practice may be clearly learned from Scripture; and (6)…

An Exposition of the Confession of Faith (Robert Shaw): These sections relate to the perfection and perspicuity of the Scriptures. 1, In regard to the ])erfection, or sufficiency, of the Scriptures, it is acknowledged that there are some circumstances concerning the worship of God, and government of the Church, in regard to which no express injunctions are given in Scripture, and which are to be ordered by the light of nature and Christian prudence, according to the general rules of the Word. The Apostolic rule in such cases is, — " Let all things be done decently and in order," — 1 Cor. xiv. 40 ; but this general iide does not authorise the introduction into the Church of rites and ceremonies of human invention, in order to set…

1.8. Of the Holy Scripture

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. 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.

Proof texts

Matt. 5:18 — [18] For truly, I say to you, until heaven and earth pass away, not an iota, not a dot, will pass from the Law until all is accomplished.
Isa. 8:20 — [20] To the teaching and to the testimony! If they will not speak according to this word, it is because they have no dawn.
Acts 15:15 — [15] And with this the words of the prophets agree, just as it is written,
John 5:39, 46 — [39] You search the Scriptures because you think that in them you have eternal life; and it is they that bear witness about me, [46] For if you believed Moses, you would believe me; for he wrote of me.
John 5:39 — [39] You search the Scriptures because you think that in them you have eternal life; and it is they that bear witness about me,
1 Cor. 14:6, 9, 11, 12, 24, 27, 28 — [6] Now, brothers, if I come to you speaking in tongues, how will I benefit you unless I bring you some revelation or knowledge or prophecy or teaching? [9] So with yourselves, if with your tongue you utter speech that is not intelligible, how will anyone know what is said? For you will be speaking into the air. [11] but if I do not know the meaning of the language, I will be a foreigner to the speaker and the speaker a foreigner to me. [12] So with yourselves, since you are eager for manifestations of the Spirit, strive to excel in building up the church. [24] But if all prophesy, and an unbeliever or outsider enters, he is convicted by all, he is called to account by all, [27] If any speak in a tongue, let there be only two or at most three, and each in turn, and let someone interpret. [28] But if there is no one to interpret, let each of them keep silent in church and speak to himself and to God.
Col. 3:16 — [16] Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly, teaching and admonishing one another in all wisdom, singing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, with thankfulness in your hearts to God.
Rom. 15:4 — [4] For whatever was written in former days was written for our instruction, that through endurance and through the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope.

For discussion

The Assembly cited Matt. 5:18 in support of this answer. Read it in context — how does it bear on what is claimed here?
8 passages are cited here. Which does the most work, and is anything claimed that the proofs do not obviously carry?
WLC Q5 treats the same ground. What does it add, and why might it put things differently?
WLC Q1 treats the same ground. What does it add, and why might it put things differently?

Read alongside

WLC Q5 · WLC Q1 · WLC Q2 · WLC Q3 · WLC Q4 · WSC Q1 · WSC Q2 · WSC Q3 · BC 1.1 · BC 1.2 · HC Q1 · HC Q2 · BC 1.3 · BC 1.4 · BC 1.5 · BC 1.6 · BC 1.7 · 1689 1.1 · SD 1.1 · IAR 1.1 · SC60 6.4 · SHC 1.1 · SHC 1.2

Leader's notes

A Commentary on the Confession of Faith (A.A. Hodge): This section teaches : 1st. That the Old Tastament having been originally written in Hebrew and the New Testament in Greek, which were the common languages of the large body of the Church in their respective periods, the Scriptures in those languages are the absolute rule of faith, and ultimate appeal in all controversies. 2d. That the original sacred text has come down to us in a state of essential purity. 3d. That the Scriptures should be translated into the vernacular languages of all people, and copies put into the hands of all capable of reading them. The true text of the ancient Scriptures is ascertained by means of a careful collation and comparison of the following : 1st. Ancient…

An Exposition of the Confession of Faith (Robert Shaw): There are four heads embraced in these sections. Fhst, That the Scriptures, in the original languages, have come down to us uncorrupted, and are, therefore, authentical. Secondly, That the Scriptures are to be translated into the vulgar language of every nation unto which they come^ Thirdly^ That the infallible rule of the intei-pretation of Scnpture is the Scripture itself. Fourthly, That the Scriptures are the supreme standard of religious triith; and that the Suisreme .Judge, by which all controversies in religion are to be determined, is the Holy Spirit speaking to us in the Scriptures. 1. The Old Testament, except a few passages which were written in Chaldee, was originally written in Hebrew, the language of the Jews, to whom…

1.9. Of the Holy 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.

Proof texts

2 Pet. 1:20, 21 — [20] knowing this first of all, that no prophecy of Scripture comes from someone's own interpretation. [21] For no prophecy was ever produced by the will of man, but men spoke from God as they were carried along by the Holy Spirit.
Acts 15:15, 16 — [15] And with this the words of the prophets agree, just as it is written, [16] “‘After this I will return, and I will rebuild the tent of David that has fallen; I will rebuild its ruins, and I will restore it,

For discussion

The Assembly cited 2 Pet. 1:20, 21 in support of this answer. Read it in context — how does it bear on what is claimed here?
2 passages are cited here. Which does the most work, and is anything claimed that the proofs do not obviously carry?
WLC Q5 treats the same ground. What does it add, and why might it put things differently?
WLC Q1 treats the same ground. What does it add, and why might it put things differently?

Read alongside

WLC Q5 · WLC Q1 · WLC Q2 · WLC Q3 · WLC Q4 · WSC Q1 · WSC Q2 · WSC Q3 · BC 1.1 · BC 1.2 · HC Q1 · HC Q2 · BC 1.3 · BC 1.4 · BC 1.5 · BC 1.6 · BC 1.7 · 1689 1.1 · SD 1.1 · IAR 1.1 · SC60 6.4 · SHC 1.1 · SHC 1.2

Leader's notes

A Commentary on the Confession of Faith (A.A. Hodge): These sections teach : 1st. That the infallible and only true "rule'' for the interpretation of Scripture is Scripture itself. 2d. That the Scriptures are the supreme "judge'' in all controversies concerning religion. The authority of the Scriptures as the ultimate rule of faith rests alone in the fact that they are the word of God. Since all these writings are one revelation, and the only revelation of his will concerning religion given by God to men, it follows : 1st. That they are complete as a revelation in themselves, and are not to be supplemented or explained by light drawn from any other source. 2d. That the different sections of this revelation mutually supplement and explain one another. The…

An Exposition of the Confession of Faith (Robert Shaw): There are four heads embraced in these sections. Fhst, That the Scriptures, in the original languages, have come down to us uncorrupted, and are, therefore, authentical. Secondly, That the Scriptures are to be translated into the vulgar language of every nation unto which they come^ Thirdly^ That the infallible rule of the intei-pretation of Scnpture is the Scripture itself. Fourthly, That the Scriptures are the supreme standard of religious triith; and that the Suisreme .Judge, by which all controversies in religion are to be determined, is the Holy Spirit speaking to us in the Scriptures. 1. The Old Testament, except a few passages which were written in Chaldee, was originally written in Hebrew, the language of the Jews, to whom…

1.10. Of the Holy 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.

Proof texts

Matt. 22:29, 31 — [29] But Jesus answered them, “You are wrong, because you know neither the Scriptures nor the power of God. [31] And as for the resurrection of the dead, have you not read what was said to you by God:
Eph. 2:20 with Acts 28:25

For discussion

The Assembly cited Matt. 22:29, 31 in support of this answer. Read it in context — how does it bear on what is claimed here?
2 passages are cited here. Which does the most work, and is anything claimed that the proofs do not obviously carry?
WSC Q3 treats the same ground. What does it add, and why might it put things differently?
WLC Q5 treats the same ground. What does it add, and why might it put things differently?

Read alongside

WSC Q3 · WLC Q5 · WLC Q1 · WLC Q2 · WLC Q3 · WLC Q4 · WSC Q1 · WSC Q2 · BC 1.1 · BC 1.2 · HC Q1 · HC Q2 · BC 1.3 · BC 1.4 · BC 1.5 · BC 1.6 · BC 1.7 · 1689 1.1 · SD 1.1 · IAR 1.1 · SC60 6.4 · SHC 1.1 · SHC 1.2

Leader's notes

A Commentary on the Confession of Faith (A.A. Hodge): These sections teach : 1st. That the infallible and only true "rule'' for the interpretation of Scripture is Scripture itself. 2d. That the Scriptures are the supreme "judge'' in all controversies concerning religion. The authority of the Scriptures as the ultimate rule of faith rests alone in the fact that they are the word of God. Since all these writings are one revelation, and the only revelation of his will concerning religion given by God to men, it follows : 1st. That they are complete as a revelation in themselves, and are not to be supplemented or explained by light drawn from any other source. 2d. That the different sections of this revelation mutually supplement and explain one another. The…

An Exposition of the Confession of Faith (Robert Shaw): There are four heads embraced in these sections. Fhst, That the Scriptures, in the original languages, have come down to us uncorrupted, and are, therefore, authentical. Secondly, That the Scriptures are to be translated into the vulgar language of every nation unto which they come^ Thirdly^ That the infallible rule of the intei-pretation of Scnpture is the Scripture itself. Fourthly, That the Scriptures are the supreme standard of religious triith; and that the Suisreme .Judge, by which all controversies in religion are to be determined, is the Holy Spirit speaking to us in the Scriptures. 1. The Old Testament, except a few passages which were written in Chaldee, was originally written in Hebrew, the language of the Jews, to whom…