Authority of Scripture
Self-Authentication (Autopistia)
Bibliology · 6 verses
Scripture authenticates itself through its inherent divine qualities and does not depend upon the testimony of the church or human reason for its authority. The Bible carries its own credentials of divinity—its majesty, purity, efficacy, and comprehensive scope all testify to its divine origin. The church recognizes but does not confer canonical authority; it submits to the self-evident voice of God in Scripture.
Scripture References
“If we receive the witness of men, the witness of God is greater: for this is the witness of God which he hath testified of his Son.”
“Search the scriptures; for in them ye think ye have eternal life: and they are they which testify of me.”
“Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path.”
“The law of the LORD is perfect, converting the soul: the testimony of the LORD is sure, making wise the simple. The statutes of the LORD are right, rejoicing the heart: the commandment of the LORD is pure, enlightening the eyes. The fear of the LORD is clean, enduring for ever: the judgments of the LORD are true and righteous altogether. More to be desired are they than gold, yea, than much fine gold: sweeter also than honey and the honeycomb. Moreover by them is thy servant warned: and in keeping of them there is great reward.”
“For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any twoedged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.”
“And my speech and my preaching was not with enticing words of man's wisdom, but in demonstration of the Spirit and of power: That your faith should not stand in the wisdom of men, but in the power of God.”