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Article 07

THE SUFFICIENCY OF THE HOLY SCRIPTURES TO BE THE ONLY RULE OF FAITH

We believe that this Holy Scripture fully contains the will of God and that all that man must believe in order to be saved is sufficiently taught therein. (1) The whole manner of worship which God requires of us is written in it at length. It is therefore unlawful for any one, even for an apostle, to teach otherwise than we are now taught in Holy Scripture: (2) yes, even if it be an angel from heaven, as the apostle Paul says (Gal 1:8). Since it is forbidden to add to or take away anything from the Word of God (Deut 12:32), (3) it is evident that the doctrine thereof is most perfect and complete in all respects. (4)

We may not consider any writings of men, however holy these men may have been, of equal value with the divine Scriptures; nor ought we to consider custom, or the great multitude, or antiquity, or succession of times and persons, or councils, decrees or statutes, as of equal value with the truth of God, since the truth is above all; (5) for all men are of themselves liars, and are lighter than a breath (Ps 62:9). We therefore reject with all our heart whatever does not agree with this infallible rule, (6) as the apostles have taught us: Test the spirits to see whether they are from God (1 Jn 4:1). Likewise: If anyone comes to you and does not bring this teaching, do not receive him into your house or give him any greeting (2 Jn 1:10).

1. 2 Tim 3:16,17; 1 Pet 1:10-12.

2. 1 Cor 15:2; 1 Tim 1:3.

3. Deut 4:2; Prov 30:6; Acts 26:22; 1 Cor 4:6; Rev 22:18,19.

4. Ps 19:7; Jn 15:15; Acts 18:28;20:27; Rom 15:4.

5. Mk 7:7-9; Acts 4:19; Col 2:8; 1 Jn 2:19.

6. Deut 4:5,6; Is 8:20; 1 Cor 3:11; Eph 4:4-6; 2 Thess 2:2; 2 Tim 3:14,15.