Sola Scriptura - Scripture Alone!

Sola Scriptura – Scripture Alone!
By Creth D. Hopkins

In the forty-plus years I have been in God’s ministry, I have never heard a question for which the Bible did not have an appropriate answer. The reason why the Bible is so pertinent and ‘to the point’ is simple: it is God’s Holy Word. While the Bible was written over a period of some 1,500 years by over forty writers, its sole Author is God Himself:

16 “All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, 17 that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work.” 2 Timothy 3:16-17

The word inspiration actually means “God-breathed.” When you read the Bible you are actually reading the exhaled breath of God on printed page. God is the sole Author as well as the sole Interpreter of His Word:

20 “knowing this first of all, that no prophecy of Scripture comes from someone's own interpretation. 21 For no prophecy was ever produced by the will of man, but men spoke from God as they were carried along by the Holy Spirit.” 2 Peter 1:20-21

It is called the Holy Bible because God, as its Author, is holy. You can depend upon it because it has been tested and found trustworthy. We are warned not to add to it:

“Every word of God is tested; He is a shield to those who put their trust in Him. Do not add to His words, lest He rebuke you, and you be found a liar.” Proverbs 30:5-6

God makes His will very clear to us concerning His Bible:

“Everything that I command you, you shall be careful to do. You shall not add to it or take from it.” Deuteronomy 12:32

Many cults add the teachings of their leadership to the Bible and say that their doctrine is as inspired as is the Holy Bible. God had the Apostle Paul write the following warning:

8“But even if we or an angel from heaven should preach to you a gospel contrary to the one we preached to you, let him be accursed. 9 As we have said before, so now I say again: If anyone is preaching to you a gospel contrary to the one you received, let him be accursed.” Galatians 1:8-9

How we handle the Bible is a serious matter. We are to read it, trust it, and obey it. It is dangerous to mishandle the Bible. The Apostle John gives us a final warning:

18 “I warn everyone who hears the words of the prophecy of this book: if anyone adds to them, God will add to him the plagues described in this book, 19 and if anyone takes away from the words of the book of this prophecy, God will take away his share in the tree of life and in the holy city, which are described in this book.” Revelation 22:18-19