The NRBC School of Theology: Systematic Theology Course 2

6. OF THE HOLY SCRIPTURES 1:9,10:
The 1689 London Baptist Confession of Faith

This course is based on the text, 'The 1689 London Baptist Confession of Faith,' with notes by Kevin Matthews. Please feel free to print these notes to allow you to study the text online/offline. This lesson may be used in other study situations if you like (eg. Groups, Bible Studies, etc).

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.

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 ‘test all things; hold fast what 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’?

NOTE: If you wish to email me regarding your answers to this first lesson, please copy and paste them into an email (Attachments will not be opened). I will then get back to you as soon as I can (expect a delay due to various committments).

Links to Online Texts

• 1689 London Baptist Confession of Faith
• 1689 London Baptist Confession of Faith

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