Chapter 1 – Of the Holy Scripture – Covenant Presbyterian Church

Chapter 1, paragraph 1 of the Westminster Confession of Faith explains the necessity and purpose of Scripture. It teaches that while God has revealed Himself to humanity in various ways, including through creation and providence (Psalm 19:1; Romans 1:19-20), these general revelations are not enough to give people the knowledge of salvation. Because of this, God chose to reveal Himself more clearly and fully through the Scriptures, which contain everything needed for knowing Him and achieving salvation (2 Timothy 3:15-17).

The paragraph emphasizes that Scripture is essential because human reason is limited, and we cannot discover God’s will for salvation on our own. This is why God communicated His truth through prophets, apostles, and ultimately in written form. The Bible serves as the final, complete, and authoritative source of knowledge about God and His plan for humanity.

Historically, this statement was written during the Protestant Reformation, a time when the Reformers emphasized the sufficiency and clarity of Scripture (sola Scriptura) in response to the Roman Catholic Church’s reliance on church traditions, councils, and the Pope’s authority. The Reformers wanted to make clear that the Bible, not human traditions, is the ultimate guide for faith and life. They also believed that Scripture is accessible to all believers and contains everything necessary for salvation without needing additional revelations.

Key biblical references support this view:

2 Timothy 3:15-17: Scripture is inspired by God and equips believers for every good work.
2 Peter 1:19-21: Prophets spoke as they were carried along by the Holy Spirit, affirming the divine origin of Scripture.
Deuteronomy 29:29: God’s revealed Word belongs to His people, providing what they need to follow Him.

In summary, this paragraph teaches that while God has revealed Himself in nature, only Scripture provides the full and clear knowledge necessary for salvation. The Bible is complete, sufficient, and accessible to believers, serving as the ultimate authority for faith and life. This was a foundational Reformation principle, directly opposing the Catholic emphasis on tradition and additional sources of authority.

Chapter 1, paragraph 2 of the Westminster Confession of Faith explains which books are included in the Bible and why they are considered God’s Word. It lists the 39 books of the Old Testament and the 27 books of the New Testament as the complete canon of Scripture, emphasizing that these are the only inspired and authoritative writings for faith and life.

The paragraph asserts that these books were inspired by God and given through His prophets and apostles. They are considered God’s direct revelation and are the ultimate standard for what Christians should believe and how they should live. No other writings—whether ancient, modern, or part of church tradition—are equal in authority to the books of the Bible.

Historically, this statement was made during the Protestant Reformation to address disagreements with the Roman Catholic Church, which includes additional books, known as the Apocrypha, in its canon. The Reformers rejected the Apocrypha, arguing that it was not divinely inspired and had never been accepted as Scripture by the Jewish people or the early church. This stance reinforced the principle of sola Scriptura (Scripture alone), emphasizing the Bible’s sufficiency and rejecting the authority of additional writings or traditions.

Key biblical references support this teaching:

2 Timothy 3:16-17: All Scripture is inspired by God and sufficient for teaching, correction, and equipping believers.
2 Peter 1:20-21: Scripture comes not from human will but through men moved by the Holy Spirit.
Luke 24:27, 44: Jesus affirms the Old Testament as Scripture by referring to the Law, Prophets, and Writings.

In summary, this paragraph affirms that the 66 books of the Old and New Testaments are the only divinely inspired Scriptures. They are complete, authoritative, and sufficient for salvation and Christian living. This teaching directly challenges the Roman Catholic inclusion of the Apocrypha, emphasizing that Scripture alone, without additions from human tradition, is the final authority for the church.

Chapter 1, paragraph 3 of the Westminster Confession of Faith emphasizes that the Bible is complete and nothing should be added to or taken away from it. It declares that God’s revelation, as recorded in Scripture, is final and sufficient. This means that no new revelations, human traditions, or additional writings are to be treated as equal to the Bible in authority.

The paragraph explicitly rejects the Apocrypha, books included in the Roman Catholic Bible but excluded from the Protestant canon, stating that these writings are not divinely inspired and do not hold any authority for faith or life. The Confession insists that only the 66 books of the Old and New Testaments are God’s Word.

Historically, this was written during the Protestant Reformation in response to the Roman Catholic Church’s use of the Apocrypha and its reliance on church traditions and teachings as sources of authority alongside Scripture. The Reformers firmly rejected these additions, emphasizing sola Scriptura (Scripture alone) as the foundation of faith. By excluding the Apocrypha, the Reformers upheld the belief that the Bible, as originally recognized by the Jewish people and the early church, is the only source of divine revelation.

Key biblical references support this view:

Deuteronomy 4:2: God commands His people not to add to or take away from His Word.
Proverbs 30:5-6: Every word of God is true, and adding to it leads to judgment.
Revelation 22:18-19: A warning against adding to or subtracting from the words of Scripture.

In summary, this paragraph teaches that the Bible is complete and sufficient, and nothing outside of it—whether new revelations, traditions, or writings like the Apocrypha—should be accepted as authoritative. This reflects the Protestant Reformation’s commitment to the sufficiency of Scripture and its rejection of additional sources of authority upheld by the Roman Catholic Church.

Chapter 1, paragraph 4 of the Westminster Confession of Faith explains that the Bible’s authority comes from God alone, not from the opinions or approval of any human, church, or organization. The Scriptures are the Word of God, inspired by Him, and therefore carry His ultimate authority. Because of this, we are to believe and obey them, not because others tell us to, but because they are from God Himself.

This teaching directly challenges the Roman Catholic view, which holds that the Church has the authority to determine and confirm the canon of Scripture and to interpret it definitively. In contrast, the Confession states that Scripture’s authority does not depend on human endorsement but is intrinsic because God is its author.

Historically, this statement was written during the Protestant Reformation, when Reformers like Martin Luther and John Calvin argued that Scripture, not the Church, was the final authority on faith and life. This was part of the broader rejection of the Catholic Church’s teaching that church councils and traditions held equal authority to the Bible. The Reformers emphasized that God’s Word stands independently as the ultimate standard of truth.

Key biblical references support this:

2 Timothy 3:16: All Scripture is inspired by God, showing its divine origin and authority.
Isaiah 8:20: Calls people to test teachings against God’s Word, highlighting its authority.
Galatians 1:8: Paul warns against accepting teachings contrary to the gospel revealed in Scripture, reinforcing its supreme authority.

In summary, this paragraph asserts that the Bible’s authority comes directly from God as its divine author, not from human institutions or approval. It was a crucial declaration during the Reformation, emphasizing Scripture’s ultimate authority in contrast to the Roman Catholic view that tied the Bible’s authority to the Church. Believers are called to accept and obey the Bible because it is the Word of God, standing above all human traditions or opinions.

Chapter 1, paragraph 5 of the Westminster Confession of Faith explains how we can be confident that the Bible is truly God’s Word. It highlights the many qualities of Scripture that show its divine origin: its majesty, the harmony of its teachings, its ability to change lives, and its consistent message about God’s glory and salvation through Jesus Christ. These traits provide strong evidence that the Bible is inspired by God.

However, the Confession emphasizes that full conviction about Scripture’s divine authority comes through the Holy Spirit. While these qualities make it clear that the Bible is special, it is the work of the Spirit in a person’s heart that ultimately confirms its truth and inspires faith.

This teaching reflects a key difference between Protestantism and Roman Catholicism. The Roman Catholic Church teaches that the Church’s authority (the Magisterium) is necessary to confirm and interpret Scripture. In contrast, the Reformers taught that Scripture’s authority is self-evident, and the Holy Spirit enables believers to recognize it as God’s Word. The Protestant emphasis on the Holy Spirit’s role ensures that individuals, not just church leaders, can know the Bible’s truth.

Historically, this statement arose during the Reformation when the Reformers rejected the Catholic view that church councils and traditions were needed to validate Scripture. They emphasized sola Scriptura (Scripture alone) and the sufficiency of the Holy Spirit to lead believers to recognize the Bible’s authority.

Key biblical references include:

1 Corinthians 2:10-12: The Spirit reveals the things of God, including the truth of Scripture.
John 16:13: The Holy Spirit guides believers into all truth.
1 Thessalonians 1:5: The gospel came not just with words but with power and the Holy Spirit, showing the Spirit’s role in confirming God’s message.

In summary, this paragraph teaches that while the Bible’s divine qualities provide strong evidence of its truth, it is the Holy Spirit who ultimately convinces people that the Scriptures are God’s Word. This teaching highlights the Protestant Reformation’s focus on the sufficiency of Scripture and the Spirit’s work in believers, standing in contrast to the Roman Catholic reliance on the Church’s authority to validate the Bible.

Chapter 1, paragraph 6 of the Westminster Confession of Faith teaches that the Bible contains everything necessary for knowing God’s will for salvation, faith, and life. While not every detail about every situation is spelled out, the principles in Scripture provide all the guidance needed. If questions arise about how to live or what to believe, Christians can use Scripture, guided by the Holy Spirit and sound reasoning, to understand God’s will.

The Confession also states that nothing should be added to the Bible—whether new revelations, human traditions, or opinions. This reinforces the idea that the Bible is complete and sufficient, and believers are not dependent on outside sources to understand God’s will.

However, it acknowledges that some practices, like church governance or worship forms, may not be directly outlined in Scripture. In these cases, Christians can use general biblical principles and practical wisdom, as long as they remain faithful to what Scripture teaches.

Historically, this statement reflects the Protestant Reformation’s rejection of Roman Catholicism’s reliance on church traditions, councils, and papal decrees as equal authorities alongside the Bible. The Reformers emphasized sola Scriptura (Scripture alone), declaring that the Bible, not human additions, is the ultimate guide for Christian faith and practice.

Key biblical references include:

2 Timothy 3:16-17: Scripture is sufficient to equip believers for every good work.
Deuteronomy 4:2: God commands not to add to or take away from His Word.
Acts 17:11: The Bereans examine the Scriptures daily to confirm teachings.
1 Corinthians 10:31: Encourages believers to do all things for God’s glory, showing how Scripture applies broadly to life.

In summary, this paragraph emphasizes that the Bible is complete and sufficient for understanding God’s will and living a faithful life. It provides all the guidance needed for salvation and daily decisions through its teachings and principles. Christians are not to add to Scripture or rely on outside sources for ultimate authority, reflecting the Protestant Reformation’s rejection of Catholic traditions as equal to the Bible. Instead, believers rely on Scripture, the Holy Spirit, and sound reasoning to discern God’s will.

Chapter 1, paragraph 7 of the Westminster Confession of Faith teaches that the Bible is clear and understandable in the essential truths needed for salvation and faithful living. While some parts of Scripture may be harder to understand, the key teachings about God, salvation through Jesus, and how to live a godly life are plainly communicated and accessible to all who seek them. This means that everyone, regardless of education or background, can grasp these truths through ordinary means like reading and studying with the guidance of the Holy Spirit.

The paragraph also emphasizes the role of the Holy Spirit in helping believers understand Scripture. Even though the Bible is clear, the Spirit illuminates the hearts and minds of believers, helping them to comprehend and apply its teachings. Additionally, the Confession highlights the importance of using the ordinary means God provides—like preaching, teaching, and study—to understand the harder parts of Scripture.

Historically, this statement arose during the Protestant Reformation, when the Reformers emphasized the clarity (perspicuity) of Scripture in contrast to the Roman Catholic Church’s teaching. The Catholic Church often held that Scripture was too difficult for the average person to interpret without the Church’s guidance and that church traditions were necessary for understanding. The Reformers rejected this, affirming that the Bible’s core message is clear and that ordinary believers can understand it without relying on church traditions or leaders to mediate its meaning.

Key biblical references include:

Psalm 19:7: The Word of God makes the simple wise.
2 Timothy 3:15: Scripture is able to make even a child wise for salvation.
Deuteronomy 30:11-14: God’s Word is near, clear, and accessible for obedience.
John 16:13: The Holy Spirit guides believers into truth.

In summary, this paragraph asserts that the Bible clearly communicates the essential truths about salvation and godly living, and anyone can understand them with the help of the Holy Spirit and diligent study. While some parts of Scripture may be more difficult, God provides ordinary means, like teaching and preaching, to aid understanding. This teaching reflects the Protestant Reformation’s emphasis on the clarity of Scripture and its rejection of the idea that church traditions or leaders are necessary to understand God’s Word.

Chapter 1, paragraph 8 of the Westminster Confession of Faith addresses the preservation, translation, and accessibility of Scripture. It teaches that God has preserved His Word throughout history in its original languages (Hebrew for the Old Testament and Greek for the New Testament), ensuring its accuracy and reliability. These texts are the final standard for faith and practice.

Since not everyone can read the original languages, the Confession affirms that Scripture should be translated into common languages so all people can read and understand God’s Word. This ensures that everyone has access to the truths necessary for salvation and godly living.

This paragraph emphasizes that while translations are important, they must faithfully reflect the original texts to convey God’s Word accurately. It also highlights the need for careful study of Scripture to properly understand its meaning.

Historically, this reflects the Protestant Reformation’s commitment to making the Bible accessible to ordinary people. At the time, the Roman Catholic Church primarily used the Latin Vulgate, a translation that was not understood by most people. The Reformers, like Martin Luther and William Tyndale, worked to translate the Bible into languages people could read, believing that Scripture’s truths should not be hidden behind a language barrier. They also trusted that God had preserved the original texts, enabling accurate translations.

Key biblical references include:

Isaiah 40:8: God’s Word stands forever, showing its preservation.
Matthew 5:18: Jesus affirms that not even the smallest part of God’s Word will pass away.
1 Corinthians 14:9-11: Paul stresses the importance of understanding language to benefit from God’s message.
Acts 2:6-11: The gospel was proclaimed in many languages, emphasizing accessibility.

In summary, this paragraph teaches that God has preserved His Word in its original languages and that faithful translations are essential for making the Bible accessible to all people. Everyone should be able to read and understand Scripture in their own language. This reflects the Reformation’s commitment to the accessibility of God’s Word, breaking from the Roman Catholic Church’s use of Latin, which limited ordinary people’s understanding. Through translations, the Bible continues to reach and transform lives worldwide.

Chapter 1, paragraph 9 of the Westminster Confession of Faith emphasizes that the Bible is the ultimate standard for what Christians believe and how they live. It teaches that all beliefs, teachings, and practices in the church must be tested against Scripture. If anything in the church or tradition conflicts with the Bible, it must be corrected or rejected. Scripture is the final authority in all matters of faith and practice.

This paragraph was written in the context of the Protestant Reformation, a period when Reformers were challenging the Roman Catholic Church’s authority. The Catholic Church had placed tradition and the teachings of the Pope on equal footing with Scripture. The Reformers rejected this, asserting that Scripture alone (known as sola Scriptura) should be the foundation for all Christian teaching and practice.

The Confession emphasizes that Scripture’s authority is supreme, and that it is not subject to the interpretation of church authorities if it contradicts what is plainly taught in the Bible. This reinforces the idea that no human or institutional authority—such as popes, councils, or church traditions—can overrule or alter what is taught in Scripture.

Key biblical references supporting this teaching include:

2 Timothy 3:16-17: All Scripture is inspired by God and is sufficient for teaching, rebuking, and training in righteousness.
Acts 17:11: The Bereans were commended for examining the Scriptures daily to see if what they were being taught was true.
Matthew 15:9: Jesus warns against teachings that are based on human traditions rather than God’s Word.
Isaiah 8:20: To the law and to the testimony! If they do not speak according to this word, there is no light in them.

In summary, this paragraph teaches that Scripture alone is the ultimate authority for Christian belief and practice. All teachings, practices, and traditions must be judged by the Bible, and anything that contradicts it should be rejected. This reflects the Reformers’ commitment to sola Scriptura, rejecting the idea that church traditions or human authorities could be on equal footing with the Bible.

Chapter 1, paragraph 10 of the Westminster Confession of Faith declares that the supreme judge in all matters of faith and life is Scripture itself. It teaches that when there are disagreements about religious teachings, practices, or interpretations, the Bible is the ultimate authority for settling these disputes. No human authority—whether an individual, a church council, or a leader—can override or contradict the Word of God.

This statement reflects the Protestant Reformation’s core principle of sola Scriptura (Scripture alone). During the Reformation, Protestants rejected the Roman Catholic Church’s teaching that church leaders, councils, or the Pope had the final authority in matters of faith. Instead, they affirmed that God’s Word, not human institutions, is the ultimate standard for truth.

The paragraph also underscores the role of the Holy Spirit in guiding believers to understand Scripture correctly. It is not enough to simply refer to the Bible; interpretation must align with the overall message and intent of God’s Word as revealed through the Spirit.

Key biblical references include:

Isaiah 8:20: God’s Word is the standard against which all teachings are tested.
Acts 15:15-18: Early church leaders settled disagreements by turning to Scripture.
Matthew 22:29: Jesus rebukes those who err because they do not know the Scriptures.
2 Timothy 3:16-17: Scripture is inspired by God and sufficient for teaching and correcting.

In summary, this paragraph teaches that the Bible is the final authority in all matters of faith and life. It is the ultimate judge for resolving disagreements and guiding Christians, and no human authority can contradict or overrule it. This reflects the Protestant Reformation’s rejection of the Roman Catholic Church’s claim that church traditions or leaders had equal or greater authority than Scripture. Instead, the Confession affirms that God’s Word, guided by the Spirit, is the supreme standard for truth.