1689 LONDON BAPTIST CONFESSION OF FAITH

Systematic Theology Course 2

Study 6: Of the Holy Scriptures 1:9,10

9. The infallible rule of interpretation of Scripture is the Scripture it self; 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 by other places that speak more clearly (a).

a. 2 Pet 1:20,21; Acts 15:15,16.

10. 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 Scripture
delivered by the Spirit, into which Scripture so delivered, our faith is finally resolved (a).

a. Mt 22:29,31; Eph 2:20; Acts 28:23.

6.1 The Interpretation of Scripture

How can we accurately understand the meaning of Scripture? How can we be sure that
our interpretation is the right one? These are important questions to ask and we must
arrive at the right answers to them.

One of the most foundational truths for the correct understanding of Scripture, is to
remember that the Bible is one harmonious whole (Lk 24:44,45; Jn 5:39). The various
books do not give off different sounds, but one united chord. When this is understood,
the Bible then becomes the yardstick for every interpretation of every Bible passage.
The Bible will not contradict itself, for the one Spirit is its whole primary Author (2 Tim
3:16; 2 Pet 1:19-21).

If some part of Scripture is difficult to understand, then go to a part that is easier to

understand and dealing with the same subject. By comparing Scripture with Scripture,
the right understanding can be found. Useful in this correct method of arriving at the
Biblical interpretation of a passage are concordances, dictionaries, commentaries and so
on. These will help you to find similar passages, parallel passages, same word usage and
so on.

1689 Baptist Confession of Faith Study Series - 6. Of the Holy Scriptures 1:9,10
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QUESTION:

What are the dangers of using commentaries and dictionaries in Biblical interpretation?

6.2 The Scriptures are the Final Authority

Today a plethora of beliefs and a multitude of denominations and sects confront us.
How are we to know what to believe? One group says this, and another says that. How
can we know who is right?

It is necessary to ‘prove all things; hold fast that which is good (1 Thess 5:21).’ How are
we to do this? This is to be done by appealing to the Scriptures (Is 8:19,20; Acts
15:14-18; 17:11). Since the Scriptures are sufficient ‘concerning all things necessary for
His own glory, man’s salvation, faith and life (1.6)’, it is to these that we must turn, ‘so
as in all controversies of religion, the church is finally to appeal to them (1.8).’

Having discovered what the Bible has to say on the subject, it is here that we are to rest.
Whether we find the Bible’s declaration palatable or not, we must content ourselves
with what it says. It is the final authority (Mt 22:23-33; Acts 28:23).

QUESTION:

What would your response be to a person who says ‘Oh that’s just your interpretation’?

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1689 Baptist Confession of Faith Study Series - 6. Of the Holy Scriptures 1:9,10
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