Theology Terms Explained: “Authority of Scripture”
In this series on the blog, we’re providing sound doctrine for everyday people by providing you with clear and simple definitions that will strengthen your theological foundation. Each article covers 4 categories including:
The Term – We lay out how it’s pronounced or synonymous terms.
The Definition – We provide the Merriam-Webster definition and an everyday version.
The Biblical Connection – We show you where the term connects with Scripture.
Used in an Everyday Conversation – We use it in a basic conversation.
The Term
Authority of Scripture
(sometimes called the supreme authority of Scripture)
The Definition
Merriam-Webster (adapted): The power or right to command belief and obedience.
FTG Expanded Explanation:
The authority of Scripture means that the Bible carries the very authority of God Himself. Because Scripture is God’s Word, it speaks with divine authority over what we believe and how we live. The Bible is not merely a helpful spiritual resource or a collection of wise teachings. It is the final standard for truth, doctrine, morality, and practice. Every person, church, and culture stands under the authority of God’s Word. When Scripture speaks, God speaks.
The Biblical Connection
Scripture consistently presents itself as the final authority for truth and life.
Matthew 4:4 – “But He answered and said, “It is written, ‘MAN SHALL NOT LIVE ON BREAD ALONE, BUT ON EVERY WORD THAT PROCEEDS OUT OF THE MOUTH OF GOD.’”
Mark 7:6-13 – “And He said to them, “Rightly did Isaiah prophesy of you hypocrites, as it is written: ‘THIS PEOPLE HONORS ME WITH THEIR LIPS, BUT THEIR HEART IS FAR AWAY FROM ME. ‘BUT IN VAIN DO THEY WORSHIP ME, TEACHING AS DOCTRINES THE PRECEPTS OF MEN.’ Neglecting the commandment of God, you hold to the tradition of men. He was also saying to them, “You are experts at setting aside the commandment of God in order to keep your tradition.”
Acts 17:11 – “Now these were more noble-minded than those in Thessalonica, for they received the word with great eagerness, examining the Scriptures daily to see whether these things were so.”
James 1:22 – “But prove yourselves doers of the word, and not merely hearers who delude themselves.”
Hebrews 4:12 – “For the word of God is living and active and sharper than any two-edged sword, and piercing as far as the division of soul and spirit, of both joints and marrow, and able to judge the thoughts and intentions of the heart.”
The authority of Scripture means that the Bible does not merely inform our lives, but it governs them.
Used in Everyday Conversation
“I don’t ask what culture says first. I ask what Scripture says.”
“My opinions don’t sit above the Bible. My opinions sit under the Bible.”
“When God’s Word speaks clearly, the discussion is settled.”
