Paragraph I
Summary
- God reveals Himself in creation and providence, but Scripture is necessary to provide the saving knowledge of God.
Scripture References
- Romans 2:14–15; Romans 1:19–20; Psalm 19:1–3; Romans 1:32; Romans 2:1; Hebrews 1:1; 1 Corinthians 1:21; Proverbs 29:18; Acts 17:30–31
Paragraph II
Summary
- The canonical books of the Old and New Testaments are the inspired Word of God and the rule of faith and life.
Scripture References
- Luke 24:27; Luke 24:44; Romans 3:2; 2 Peter 1:21
Paragraph III
Summary
- The Apocrypha are not inspired Scripture and therefore have no authority in the church.
Scripture References
Paragraph IV
Summary
- The authority of Scripture rests entirely upon God its author, not upon human testimony.
Scripture References
- 2 Peter 1:19–21; 2 Timothy 3:16; 1 John 5:9; 1 Thessalonians 2:13
Paragraph V
Summary
- The church recognizes Scripture's authority, but full assurance of its truth comes from the Holy Spirit bearing witness through the Word.
Scripture References
- John 16:13–14; 1 Corinthians 2:10–12; 1 John 2:20; 1 John 2:27
Paragraph VI
Summary
- Scripture contains all things necessary for salvation, and nothing may be added to it, though the Spirit is required for proper understanding.
Scripture References
- 2 Timothy 3:15–17; Galatians 1:8–9; 2 Thessalonians 2:2; John 6:45; 1 Corinthians 2:9–12
Paragraph VII
Summary
- The essential teachings of Scripture are clear enough to be understood by all believers.
Scripture References
- Psalm 119:105; Psalm 119:130; 2 Peter 1:19
Paragraph VIII
Summary
- The original languages of Scripture are authoritative, but translations allow all people access to God's Word.
Scripture References
- Matthew 5:18; 1 Corinthians 14:6; 1 Corinthians 14:9; 1 Corinthians 14:11–12; 1 Corinthians 14:24; 1 Corinthians 14:27–28
Paragraph IX
Summary
- Scripture interprets itself, and difficult passages must be understood using clearer passages.
Scripture References
- 2 Peter 1:20–21; Acts 15:15
Paragraph X
Summary
- The Holy Spirit speaking through Scripture is the final authority in all matters of faith.
Scripture References
- Matthew 22:29; Ephesians 2:20; Acts 28:25
Why This Chapter Matters
God has not left His people to human opinion or tradition. Through Scripture, He has revealed Himself fully and sufficiently for salvation and faithful living. Because Scripture is God's Word, it stands as the highest authority for doctrine, worship, and life, and all truth must be tested by it.
Related Catechism Questions
Westminster Shorter Catechism
Q2; Q3
Westminster Larger Catechism
Q2; Q3; Q4; Q5