Sola Scriptura

This is one of the most intellectual and proof having portions that I've devised on
Sola Scriptura. Why? It's because the one area many Bible Believers have trouble
with exposing Catholics or explaining to Catholics in leading them to Christ is
about Sola Scriptura. The Catholic mentality is that the Bible isn't enough and
tradition is needed to supplant the scripture. Also, the Papacy believes that only
tradition existed in Christ's day not NT scripture so tradition must be followed as well.
The truth is that Word of God in the OT did exist in Jesus Christ‘s time on Earth
physically. These concerns are answered in this article. It's shows historical,
biblical, and religious evidence to back Sola Scriptura. Sola Scriptura means that
the Scriptures alone are sufficient (and infallible) for our spiritual and edification
needs. This doesn’t mean we are banned from read books or historical articles for
instruction, but this does mean that the Scriptures are superior to other forms of
tradition.

Enjoy.

Sola Scriptura:

1). 2 Timothy 3:15-16 All Scripture is inspired. Also see Psalm 89:34 .Not even God
would alter his word. 2 Peter 1:20-21 says his written word is inspired and not given
by private inspiration. The prophecy came by holy men of God moved by the Holy
Spirit.
2). Psalms 138:2 Gods word are placed above his name. Is tradition mentioned or
implied in Bible with such distinction and honor? No.

3). John 10:35 Scripture cannot be broken. (Tradition isnt mentioned or included in
that profound statement. If tradition and scripture were equal, would scripture and
tradition cannot be broken? Scripture is only there to show the uniqueness of Gods
word superior to tradition.

4). Psalm 119:142 Thy law is Truth (Emphasis to solely given to Gods word not
tradition.)

5). Mt. 22:29 Not knowing Gods word or commandments and basing solely on tradition
can lead to error. If both are equal, can tradition alone just like scripture alone by
itself is error-free? Tradition creates error by being utilized alone.

6). 1 Cor. 4:6 Think not above with which is written. (Tradition that contradicts Gods
word should be rejected.) See also John 14:23-24 saying to Keep Gods words and
sayings.

7). 2 Peter 1:20-21 Private interpretation of Scripture is forbidden, yet that occurs
with the magisterium, Vatican II, etc with their decrees. The origin of Gods word is
God Himself not man, but using man to record it as by the inspiration of the Holy
Spirit.

. Psalm 19:7 The law of God is perfect. (The total reverence is shown to Gods word
excluding tradition by any name whatsoever.

9). 2 Timothy 3:14-17 Scripture makes people wise unto salvation and the scriptures
are God-breathed. The word of God completes man and man doesnt complete the
word of God. If it makes the man of God perfect (complete) then tradition isnt
necessary to have some supplement to the Bible. Tradition never has the inspiring
power like that or is equal to the Bible as Catholicism teaches. Tradition alone can
never man the man of God perfect, only scripture.

10). Psalm 119:97 Mediation of Gods word reaps great benefits. See also Acts 17:10-13
showing the Bereans use a method of comparing scriptures to the apostles saying to
test their doctrine.

11). Luke 24:25-27 The scriptures and the prophets were expounded to prove Christ is
the one, I AM, God, the Messiah, etc.

12). Acts 17:1-5 Reasoned with them out of the scriptures. (You cant reason
conclusively using tradition since it varies in many religious documents, etc. Scripture
is superior to tradition since you can conclusively reason to incorporate validate
doctrines, etc.) Scripture is also complete with 66 books at your sites to compare
easily.

Tradition on the other hand has many inaccessible parts and its difficult to deduce
sometimes its origin, range, and concepts.

Today, Catholics and Catholic apologists when confronting opposition constantly

obsess with Sola Scriptura and say there is not one verse that shows Sola Scriptura.
The fact is that Sola Scriptura means that the Bible is the supreme source of
information for religious usage, the final court of appeal for doctrine, and sufficient
guide for any religious walk. Those 3 signs can be easily derived from Gods word.

13). Isaiah 18:19-20 Check witches sayings against the Word of God not tradition. If
someones sayings conflict with Gods word, there is no light in them. The Word of God
can only verify authentic tradition or teaching and that makes tradition secondary and
subordinate to Gods word.

14). Mt. 15:3 Tradition that tries to override Gods commandments was rebuked by
Christ. See also John 20:30-31 saying the written word is sufficient for salvation.

15). Hebrews 4:12 The power of the Word of God is displayed (Its even greater than
inconsistent, changing tradition. Tradition is a wide and not narrow concept covering
tons of documents that arent even necessarily based on the scriptures. The scriptures
are narrow and consistent with non-varying information.

Even the early church believed in Sola Scriptura. Polycarp wrote in his Epistle to the
Philippians in Chapter 8 that who perverts the oracles of God is the firstborn of Satan.

Later Basil calls the Scriptures God-inspired and the method to figure which doctrines
are in line with Christianity. Gregory of Nyssa called the Scripture the rule and
measure of every tenet and Athansius classifies Gods word as sufficient above all
things.

Crysostom called Gods word an exact standard and rule of all things. Thats solid proof
of the early Church designating the Scriptures as having high importance and value.
Even Augustine in his City of God Book called the Sciptures having paramount or
supreme authority.

No early church leader designated scripture as equal or inferior to tradition until

centuries later by Catholicism and other cults. Waldensians, Wycliffe, the Reformers
of especially Martin Luther and John Knox believed in the superiority of God-inspired
scriptures indeed. Its been here for more than 3,000 + years and its the most popular
and greatest prose of literature of all time.

16). Luke 10:26, Luke 16:29, John 5:39, Romans 4:3 Scriptures are sufficient
(Tradition can never compare with the scriptures).
17). Romans 2:16 We are judged by Christ according to the gospel. (Man is judged by
the written word of God=scriptures not tradition.)

1 . Psalm 119:106 Great importance of Gods word is shown. (Tradition is never

proclaimed like that.

19). Psalm 1:1-2/ John 5:39 The scriptures testify of Christ and lead people to eternal
life. Can tradition provide that equally? No.

20). 2 Peter 1:16-21 Scripture is inspired and tradition isnt. God condemns certain
traditions, but not one scripture shows scripture being condemned by God and that
makes the scriptures superior.

21). Galatians 3:22 Scripture has shown that all are sinners (even Mary) and we have
the promise of faith by Jesus Christ to those that believe. Tradition is mainly void on
that.

22). Romans 10:11 The scripture proclaims the way to salvation not necessarily
tradition.

23). John 17:17 Thy word is truth (Tradition isnt included nor implied to be pure
truth. It doesnt say Thy Tradition is Truth, but Thy Word is Truth. Theres a big
difference.)

24). Psalm 12:6-7 Gods promise to preserve his word forever and is maintained to this
day forever. See also 2 Thes. 2:13 speaking of the Bible as the word of God not of
men (traditions). Tradition varies from time to time and is never in essence equal to
scripture indeed.

25). Joshua 1:1 God always promoted the great importance of keeping his written
word. (Preserving tradition is never mentioned in Gods word and Jesus rebuked the
Pharisees for attempting to make their false tradition equal to the Torah and the OT.

26). 1 Cor. 15:3-4 Paul confirms the gospel truth by the Scriptures. (Tradition can
never be entirely affirmed or give a consistent, entirely accurate truth over the
centuries except Gods word.)

27). Rec. 22:18-19 Adding or subtracting from Gods word is wrong and sinful that will
cause many errors. The Bible is therefore sufficient and complete. See also Prov.
30:6, Deut. 12:32, and Ecc. 3:14.

2 . 1 Peter 1:24 The word of the Lord shall endure forever. Tradition can never
endure forever in an unchanging existence like the Bible can.

29). The Bible declares itself as having:

A). Acts 1:1-2 All necessary things Jesus did

B). Luke 1:3-4 Certainty of His and teaching

C). John 20:30-31 Life in the name of Jesus

D). 2 Tim. 3:15 Instruction to salvation

E). 1 Cor.14:37 Commands of the Lord

F). 2 Tim. 3:16-17 Every good work

G) 1 John 2:1 Protection against sinful living

H). 1 John 5:13 An assurance of eternal life. See also John 5:39.

I). Acts 17:11 Standard by which teachings and doctrines are tested.

J). 1 Cor. 4:6 Standard which we cannot go beyond

K). Rev. 1:3 Blessing from God

L). 1 John 1:3-4 Joy that is complete. See also Jer. 15:16

M). Rev. 20:12 Standard by which you are judged by.

Written documents like the Bible are more reliable than oral tradition anyway.
Scripture is obviously vastly superior to all tradition.

To assume that tradition is equal to the Bible, you must deny the all-sufficient Word
of God. By sufficient and complete I mean that the scriptures are composed of 66
books of the OT and NT combined. Its all there to use. In contrast, tradition is made
up of uninspired documents (1,000s of them) that vary and cant be entirely looked up
for comparison or find all of it (Some tradition are inaccessible in many of its
portions).

Tradition has changed so rapidly over time. Nobody whether its clergy or otherwise
cant receive all tradition entirely as a result.

Therefore, no verse in Gods word presents the equality of the Bible and tradition.

Some tradition can be useful, but all of it must be subjected and secondary to Gods
word. If any tradition contradicts Gods word, that false tradition is rejected and
discarded. Using the process of elimination mainly makes the case for Sola Scriptura.
The burden of proof rests upon tradition not scripture making tradition inferior.
Another point is that in 1559 the Roman Catholic Church issued the Index Liborum
Probihitorum or the Index of Forbidden Books. It restricted all books of the Protestant
Reformers, Protestant Bibles, works of Erasmus, etc. Pope Paul VI only revoked this in
1959.

Thats 400 yrs. of illegal restriction of literature by Catholicism yet again. Before that
in 1229, there was the Council of Toulouse, which restricted the Bible to laymen of
the OT and NT.

In the Council of Trent, it was the same thing, but access was only granted by a
license given only in rare cases. Even the clergy had to receive a license from bishops
to read the Bible. It was the Protestants and Bible believers who created and spread
Gods word worldwide not Catholics. Now, Catholic sheep have 100 % full access to the
scriptures though.

30). Hebrews 4:12 The Bible is sharper than any two-edged sword and holds its own
weight. The extent of the rule and standard of faith are those 66 books, yet Catholics
are even disagreeing on their rule of faith having dispute on whether how many of the
thousands of decrees or papal documents are infallible. The conflict makes tradition
inferior to the Bible and by other reasons as well.

31). 2 Thes. 2:15 Paul talked about to hold fast to traditions youve been taught
whether by word (in Acts 26:22 Paul stated he spoke nothing other than the OT
scripture) and our epistle (which is the NT scripture). Every minute tradition of all
church history will have to be 100% accurate and true to be equal to scripture, but
thats an impossibility.

32). 1 John 2:7 The Holy Spirit interprets His own Word by comparing scriptures
helping believers to understand. See also Rom. 8:9 and Job 32:8.

The Holy Spirit is the only interpreter of scripture not the magisterium, not through a
church, or through any other influences. Catholics are to follow authority figures in
order to check out Scripture. This is the opposite of the Bible, which tells us that we
should use Scripture to check out the teachings of authority figures. (From the
magisterium, etc.)

35). Rev. 1:11 Jesus commanded John to write information in the scriptures to
instruct the church, etc. Written scripture has a great deal of importance indeed and
superior to all tradition. Besides tradition cannot claim to us everything that He said
and did anyway.

36). 1 Cor. 14:3 Acknowledge what Paul writes. All Scripture is accurate and true in
the OT and NT, but all tradition isnt accurate and true. Therefore, scripture cant be
equal to tradition.

The burden of proof is on tradition and tradition must always be in accord with the
scriptures and be bounded by it being secondary. There is no burden of proof on the
scriptures neither can scripture be bounded by tradition thus making tradition
inferior.

37). 1 Cor. 1:2, 1 Thes. 5:27, Col. 4:16, Rev. 1:3, Acts 17:11, Acts 28:31, Romans 1:1-
2, Romans 16:25-26 These following verses prove beyond a shadow of a doubt that the
early church was a Bible-reading church. Since it was a reading and teaching church,
many of the scriptures were already written before 100 A.D. for religious or spiritual
usage.

3 . Jer. 15:16 Finding the word of God can cause spiritual nourishment.

39). Acts 26:22-23 No other teaching is mention in the Bible but the sufficient Gospel.
All basic gospel info is mentioned in the Bible, so why is tradition necessary to be
added unto it? It isnt logical. Tradition has the burden of proof not the scriptures
making scripture better among tons of other reasons.

40). 1 Cor. 1-11 The whole sufficient gospel is mentioned in a summary, so why is
addition of tradition needed? Why is needed when the Bible gives sufficient
information on the history of the early church, requirement for salvation, baptism,
communion, worship, pastors, Jesus, etc. It isnt necessary for additions if the facts
are already presented in Gods word for a great religious experience. Heres a timeline
of OT development:

-1400 B.C. Moses by God directly creates the Torah

-1400 B.C.-200 B.C. Various books written down of the O.T. proven by historical
archaeology, etc.
-285-200 B.C. Septuagint created from Jews in Egypt (mainly a myth)
-100s BC.-70 AD. Nash Papyrus
-100s B.C. Samartian Pentateuch made
-75-115 AD. The Council of Jamnia confirms the OT. as canonically true.
-100s AD. Meilto, a Christian writer lists 22 books of the OT. Meito of Sardis dies by
180 AD. The Apocrypha isnt included at all in the list. Josephus, Athanansius, Jerome,
Philo, and other people didnt include the Apocrypha or called it canonical scripture.
-130 AD. Aquilas version created
-150-200 AD. Theodotions version made.
-170 AD. Symmachus version written
-150-200 AD. Onkelos version of the Torah done from Hebrew to Aramaic
-150 AD. An unknown text known by Jacob of Edessa, Ot made by Jews given to
Abgar, king of Edessa.
-322 AD. Jonathan ben Uzziels version of the Prophets. (done from Hebrew to
Aramaic)
-400 AD. The Geniza Fragments with over 200,000 Hebrew texts are created.
-1000 AD. Jewish peole created the Mazzoretic text (perfect 100 % accurate. None to
little criticism or debate over its accuracy.

41). Deut. 6:6-9 The word of God was to be written and taught to children. Tradition
is not commanded by Almighty God to be written.

42). Isaiah 34:16 The prophet exhorts people to Seek and read Gods word. Every
single oral tradition is not preserved, yet the written scriptures are preserved for
3,000 + yrs. For the OT and 2000 yrs. involving the NT scriptures so tradition is
inferior.

43). Luke 24:44 Jesus Christ mentioned his usage of the word of God in the OT (The
NT wasnt around then) saying The law of Moses, the prophets, and the Psalms. Not
one OT-era tradition is mentioned like the Apocryphal books. It is obvious who is
superior and what is subjected and secondary. Tradition is simply inferior.

44). Mt. 22:23-9 Jesus, when debating, point them (Pharisees and other unbelievers)
to the word of God not tradition. The Sadducees in that situation were ignorant of
Gods word and that lead them to error. You shouldnt compete tradition against
scripture. The word of God is an easy winner against any form of tradition. Heres the
NT timeline for the development of the NT scriptures before 400 AD:
- Before 66 A.D Barcelona Papyrus (P67) contains Matthew 3:9, 15; Matthew 5:20-22,
25-28.
-ca. 66 A.D. The Paris Papyrus (P4) of Luke dated not more than Johannine Codex
(P66) we have almost a complete portion of Johns gospel dating to about 125 A.D.
-45-75 AD. The majority of the NT was created.
-Papyrus P66 contains a large portion of the Gospel of John dates back to around 200
A.D.
-Papyrus P75 contained sections of John and Luke from the early 3rd century
-65 AD. Madgen Papyrus discovered very recently showing some of the Gospels. One of
the earliest NT copies ever discovered yrs. ago.
-80-95 AD. The writings of John (1st-3rd) and Revelations are written down.
-100 AD. All of the NT books are finally written down and began to spread through the
world.
100-125 AD. Numerous copies of the NT are discovered in portions.
-125 AD. Early copy of the NT are found and the Muratori Canon written by Maricon, a
heretic though.
-147 AD. Syrian Peshitta written
-157 AD. The Old Latin Vulgate (Old Itala) was created.
-177 AD. The Gallic or Celtic version formulated in France.
-185-220 AD. Origen, born in Alexandria mentions all of the Books of the OT and NT.
He makes over 18,000 citations.
-250 AD. Sadhidic version was created from upper Egypt.
-266 AD. Synod of Antioch rejected Paul of Samosata heresy referring to the
ecclesiastical canon.
-250-300 AD. Akhmimic version (based on the Sahidic)
-300 ADs AD. Bohairic version created from Lower Egypt
-300s AD. Ethoipic version written down (related to Traditional text)
-325 AD. Codex Claromatanus
-326 AD. Athanasius, bishop of Alexandria mentions all of the NT and OT books.
-330 AD. The Gothic version created by Bishop Ulfilas for the Goths and 8 copies are
extant.
-330-340 AD. Codex A (Sinaiticus) and Codex B (Viticanius) created to make Eusibus 50
copies.
-363 AD. Synod of Laodicea says only canonized books of the OT and NT are to be read
in the Churches.
-385 AD Cheltenham Canon
-397 AD. The Council of Carthage lead by Jerome to create his Latin Vulgate
(Catholic-based Bible)

Summary of early church scriptural access before 300 AD from www.letusreason.org:

For example: Ignatius who lived somewhere around 70-110 A.D. quotes from 15 of the
27 books of the New Testament. This is significant because of the fact of how early it
is. Papias the Bishop of Hierapolis was a personal student of the apostle John he lived
in the period of 130 A.D. He wrote An Explanation of the Lord's Discourses," in which
he quotes from John, and records traditions about the origin of Matthew and Mark.

Papais noted that the apostle Mark in writing his Gospel "wrote down accurately ...
whatsoever he [Peter] remembered of the things said or done by Christ. Mark
committed no error ... for he was careful of one thing, not to omit any of the things
he [Peter] had heard, and not to state any of them falsely. Fragments of Papias'
Exposition of the Oracles of the Lord, ca. 140 A.D. (III, XIX, XX) attests that the
Gospels of Matthew, Mark, and John are all based on reliable eyewitness testimony
(his portion on Luke is missing).

Polycarp, in his Letter to the Philippians (69-155 A.D.), quotes much of the NT Matt.,
Acts, Hebrews Philippians, and reproduces phrases from nine other of Paul's letters
and I Peter. Irenaeus a disciple of Polycarp 135-210 A.D. says there are only 4
Gospels.

He quotes Paul and over 200 quotes from all the New Testament books except
Philemon, Jude, James and 3 John, he has 1,819 quotes. Ignatius, in his Seven
Letters, written about 110 A.D., during his journey from Antioch to Rome for his
martyrdom, quotes from Matthew, I Peter, I John, cites nine of Paul's Epistles, and his
letters bear the impress of the other three Gospels. Clement of Alexandria, who lived
about AD 150 A.D. 212, has 2,406 quotes from all but three books of the New
Testament.

Tertullian, who was an elder of the church in Carthage Africa lived around 160-220
A.D., quotes the New Testament 7,258 times. Of these quotes, around 3,800 are from
the gospels. Other quotes from Church fathers include Justin Martyr, a native of
Samaria in the second century, used in the Septuagint in all his writings, has 330
quotes.

Justin Martyr (100-160 A.D.) quotes all 4 Gospels, Acts and the epistles of Paul and
Revelation. Portions of the gospels were read every Sunday in church. Tatian, about
A.D. 160, made a "Harmony of the Four Gospels called the "Diatessaron," affirming
that only Four Gospels, were recognized among the churches.

Clement, of Alexandria (165-220 AD) names all the books of the New Testament
except Philemon, James, 2 Peter and 3 John. Origen 185-254 names all the books of
both the Old and New Testaments 17,922 quotes.

By 200 AD. Athanasius (who preserved the Trinity among the Church) had all 27 books
of the New Testament. He said they were the springs of salvation do not add nor take
away. Origen an African church father 185-254 A.D. names all the books of both the
Old and New Testaments. In The Hexapla he harmonized the gospels in six columns in
Hebrew and Greek.
Hippolytus, (A.D. 170-235) recognized twenty-two books. He had 1,378 quotes of
Scripture.

From 100-300 A.D. we have total of 36,289 patristic quotes of the Greek New
Testament. This is not to be considered an endorsement of everything these men
wrote, but only to show the immediate understanding of their time and the proof of
the Greek New Testament.

The Didache, written in Greek between 60 AD at the earliest to100 A.D, makes 22
quotations from Matthew with references to Luke, John, Acts, Romans, Thessalonians,
I Peter; and speaks of The Gospel as a already written document. This was used as
church manual and is significant because of its early age and quoting other books of
the Bible.

The earliest complete list of Scripture from Eusebius a church historian (who died 340
A.D.) He had 5,176 quotes of Scripture. He distinguished books universally received
and accepted by the majority of the church. There were six books held back their
acceptance. They could not be traced directly to an apostolic source.

This action shows that the church wanted to ensure that the books bore direct and
authentic testimony to be accepted. The concern was not of excluding canonical
books, but of not including non-canonical books. The book of 2 Peter and especially
Revelation had widespread hesitation as its message in symbolism was veiled, these
were the last two accepted. (end of website source)

Heres the surviving NT manuscripts today:

Type Number
Latin Vulgate 10,000+
Ethiopic 2,000+
Slavic 4,181
Syria Peshitta 350+
Armenian 2,586
Total with Boharic, Arabic, Old Latin, and other texts. 19,200+

45). Mat. 4 Jesus rebuked Satan using only scripture by saying It is written Jesus didnt
use a combination of scripture or tradition to do it, but only scripture. You can easily
validate concepts or rebuke people by using scripture alone.

46). 2 Tim. 2:15 You can study to show yourself approved unto God, a workman that
needeth not be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth. The scriptures are
sufficient to do that.

47). Luke 4:4 Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word of God. (not
tradition). Is tradition perceived in this verse as the means you must go or live by? No,
only the word of God is the rule of faith that which all Christians should live by.

Here are some questions that Catholic apologists or all Catholics cant answer
conclusively:

A). 2 Timothy 3:15-16 says that all scripture is inspired. Does the Bible say that
tradition is inspired or completes man?

B). John 10:35 says that scripture cannot be broken. Does the Bible or Jesus Christ say
that tradition cant be broken?

C). Psalm 19:7 says that the Law of God is perfect. Does the Bible or God say that
tradition is perfect?

D). Isaiah 8:19-20 says that if you go against the Word of God, you have no light. Does
the Bible or God say if you are against tradition, there is no light in you?

E). John 5:39 says that if you search the scriptures you can find salvation. Does the
Bible or God say if you find tradition then you will have eternal life?

F). Psalm 138:2 speaks of Gods word being placed above Gods name. Does the Bible or
God say that tradition is above Gods name?

G). John 17:17 says, THY WORD IS TRUTH. Does the Bible or God (Jesus Christ) say
that tradition is also truth?

H). Luke 4:4 says that Man must live by every word of God. Does the Bible or God say
you must live by tradition alone?

I). Psalm 12:6-7 says that God made a promise to preserve his words forever. Did the
Bible or God say he will preserve tradition forever?

J). Matthew 15:1-9 says that Christ condemns (some but not all) tradition used by the
Pharisees which contradict the Bible. Did God or the Bible condemn any scripture or
any portion of the scriptures?

K). Luke 24:25-27 says that the scriptures were expounded to confirm that Christ is
the Messiah, The One, I AM, GOD, etc. Does God or the Bible say that tradition can
accomplish all of this by itself?

L). If the scriptures are in need of supplament by tradition, then what is the exact
extend of the tradition needed? Is this tradition 100% accurate and what historical
evidence can you back up to claim this tradition is pure, inerrant, unchanging, etc?

The answer to all of those questions is a resounding NO.

*To make the claim of equality of both scripture and tradition or the use of tradition
to supplant scripture, you must prove that each can show the same qualities of being
expounded of Christ, being the TRUTH, perfect, above his name, etc. all by itself
without either help. That cant be down conclusively since the scriptures are obviously
superior to all forms of tradition.

The Scriptures characteristics include being:

-Preserved for over 3,000 yrs. And being written as early as 1,300 B.C. for the OT and
45 AD. For the Nt.
-Has 66 books easily accessible to use and you can find all scripture for usage and
comparison.
-Has sufficient info for a great Christian walk life and includes concepts and facts:

(Method of salvation, Christs birth, life, death, resurrection, and ascension into
heaven, baptism and church worship, clergy structure plus church roles outlined for
men and women, Trinity or Godhead, equality of all believers and all human beings,
early church history, heaven and hell, end times, prophecy, great amounts of world
history, commands of God, Blessings from God, joy, protection against sinful living,
The apostles, Mary, and other figures, Gods promises, covenants, and
commandments, a Great Christian lifestyle and walk, some science and the origin of
the universe and mankind [God is that origin], and teaches morality and ethics that
are useful.)

The list goes on and on. If scripture has that, then there is nothing I need from
tradition since the Bible tells all the ingredients of living righteously, etc. Where is
the need for addition to scripture when the scriptures already tell me the concepts
needed to live a godly life, etc. Written scriptures have a higher chance to be
preserved than oral tradition or written tradition.

Also, the scriptures cannot contradict other scripture. There are versions of the
scriptures maintained in ancient times like the Peshitta, Old Latin, Ethiopic, Gothic,
etc. plus the scriptures are never condemned by God whether in the Bible or
otherwise. Its always accurate, complete, and inerrant.

The scriptures of the OT are quoted in the NT, as one example is Jesus Christ quoting
them. Also, the sayings of Jesus are quoted in other parts of the NT not only the
Gospels. The Scriptures are preserved today with over 20,000 + copies for comparison.
Church patriarchs, history, studies, and other proofs making it dissimilar to tradition
conclusively prove its accuracy. Wow. The Bible is obviously very unique and both
Catholics and Protestants agree on that, but the issue of tradition is what we disagree
on. Catholics believe they are equal, yet Protestants think they are inferior and
secondary to the Bible.

Now on to Tradition. Tradition possesses characteristics of being:

They were primarily preserved first orally and later written down in church
documents. They vary easily since now there are thousands of traditions from
different people, places, etc. with little or no set standards to preserve it making it
not consistent.

There is little stability or criteria to classify tradition other than any document or
work that discusses religiously the history of the church or has some involvement with
Christianity. Even some Catholic scholars today are disputing which Papal decrees are
infallible and which arent.

Much of tradition is varied even amongst the patriarchs (i.e. Justin Martyr pretty
much believes in transubstantiation, but Tertullian, Augustine, and Ireaneus, plus
Cyprian denied it. Origen calls Peter and every disciple a rock, yet Augustine, Jerome,
Eusibus, and others called Christ the Rock of the Church.)

Some traditions are accessible, but others are inaccessible for usage.

To follow all tradition, you must find all of tradition, but the truth is you cant find all
of tradition at all. You can find all of the scriptures though. Oral tradition is part of
tradition also and oral tradition has the greatest chance to be distorted over time.

To assume all oral tradition even from the 1st and 2nd century is 100 % accurate and
reliable today is absurd. Jesus (GOD) in the Bible condemned some of tradition. All
tradition isnt false, but all carry a burden of proof being subjected and secondary to
the Bible. The Bible or portions of it was never condemned by Christ or carry a burden
of proof. To claim the equality of both scripture and tradition, you must prove among
other things that both arent condemned; yet some of tradition is condemned.

Tradition is also too broad to make the claim of equality to Gods word. Tradition
includes patriachs sayings, church uninspired writings, Papal decrees, etc. Some of
that doesnt present a uniform, consistent message as the Bible can.

(i.e. early Popes and I know some denied Immaculate Conception and the Assumption
of Mary, yet later ones accepted those beliefs, etc.)

By the time Roman Catholicisms unbiblical addition traditions (the papacy,

Assumption of Mary, Immaculate Conception, etc) raised up in the historical record;
the Bible was already finished and spread across the globe in certain places like
Europe, Africa, Asia, etc. Yes, this is Gods truth.

Bye for now

By Timothy
July 2, 2003
8:24 am. EST

______________________________________________
 Sola Scriptura Part 2

Gods Word [The Bible]

Yea, and all that live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution. But evil men shall
wax worse and worse, deceiving, and being deceived. But continue thou in the things
which thou hast learned and hast been assured of, knowing of whom thou hast
learned them.

And that from a child, thou have known the holy Scriptures, which are able to make
thee wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus. All scripture is given by
inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for
instruction in righteousness. That the man of God may be perfect furnished unto all
good works. (2 Timothy 3:12-17)

And now I am no more in the world, but these are in the world, and I come to thee.
Holy Father, keep through thine own name those whom thou hast given me, that they
may be one, as we are. While I was with them in the world, I kept them in thy name:
those that thou gavest me I have kept, and none of them is lost, but the son of
perdition; that the scripture might be fulfilled.
And now come I to thee; and these things I speak in the world, that they might have
my joy fulfilled in themselves. I have given them thy word; and the world hath hated
them, because they are not of the world, even as I am not of the world. I pray not
that thou shouldest take them out of the world, but that thou shouldest keep them
from the evil. They are not of the world, even as I am not of the world. Sanctify them
through thy truth: thy word is truth. (John 17:11-17)

Polycarp [Sola Scriptura/ Scripture Access or Availability]

For whosoever does not confess that Jesus Christ has come in the flesh, is
antichrist; and whosoever does not confess the testimony of the cross is of the
devil; and whosoever perverts the oracles of the Lord to his own lusts, and says
that there is neither a resurrection nor a judgment, he is the first-born of Satan.
(The Epistle of Polycarp to the Philippians, Chapter

For I trust that ye are well versed in the Sacred Scriptures, and that nothing is hid
from you; but to me this privileges is not yet granted. It is declared therein these
Scriptures, Be ye angry, and sin not, and Let not the sun go down upon your
wrath. Happy is he who remembers this, which I believe to be the case with you.
(The Epistle of Polycarp to the Philippians, Chapter 12)

Hippolytus [Sola Scriptura]

There is, brethren, one God, the knowledge of whom we gain from the Holy
Scriptures, and from no other source. For just as a man if he wishes to be skilled in
the wisdom of this world, will find himself unable to get at in any other way than by
mastering the dogmas of philosophers, so all of us who wish to practice piety will be
unable to learn its practice from any other quarter than the oracles of God.

Whatever things then the Holy Scriptures declare, at these let us look, and
whatsoever things they teach these let us learn. (Against the Heresy of One Noetus, 9)

Irenaeus [Sola Scriptura]

We must necessarily appeal to the testimony of the Scriptures without which our
discourses are entitled to no credit. (Homily I on Jeremiah)

We have learned from none others the plan of salvation than from these through
whom the gospel is come down to us, which they did at one time proclaim in public,
and at a later period, by the will of God, handed down to us in the Scriptures, to be
the ground and pillar of our faith. (Ante-Nicene Fathers, volume I, Irenaeus, Against
Heresies 3.1.1, p. 414)
Tertullian [Sola Scriptura]

Let heretics be left to prove their points from Scripture alone, and they will not be
able to stand. (De Carni Christi. C. 6)

Let the shop of Hermogenes show that it is written. If it not written, let him fear that
more which destined for those who add or take from Scripture. (ADV. Hermog. C. 22).

Basil or Basil of Caesarea [Sola Scriptura]

Without doubt, it is a most manifest fall from faith and a most certain sign of pride to
introduce anything that is not written in the Scriptures, our blessed Saviour having
said My sheep hear my voice and the voice of strangers they will not hear and to
distract from Scripture or to add anything to the faith that is not there, is most
manifestly forbidden by the Apostle, saying, If it is but a mans testament, no man
addeth there to. (De Faith Vol. 2)

If custom is to be taken in proof of what is right, then it is certainly competent for me

to put forward on my side the custom which obtains here. If they reject this, we are
clearly not bound to follow them. Therefore let God-inspired Scripture decide
between us; and on whichever side be found doctrines in harmony with the word of
God, in favor of that side will be cast the vote of truth. (Basil of Caesarea, Letter
CLXXXIX; A Select Library of Nicene and Post-Nicene Fathers of the Christian Church,
Series (Grand Rapids: Eerdmans, 1983), Page 229)

Those who are instructed in the Scriptures ought to test the things that are said by
their teachers, and to receive what agrees with the Scriptures, and to reject what
disagrees. (Cont. Litt. Petilani, III. 6, Volume IX) also (Moralia. Reg. 72)

Enjoying as you do the consolation of the Holy Scriptures, you stand in need of neither
of my assistance nor of that of anybody else to help you comprehend your duty. You
have the all-sufficient counsel and guidance of the Holy Spirit to lead you to what is
right. (Philip Schaff and Henry Wace, Nicene and Post-Nicene Fathers (Peabody:
Hendrinkson, 1995), Second Series: Volume VIII, Basil: Letters and Select Works,
Letter CCLXXXIII, p. 312.)

Cyril of Jerusalem [Sola Scriptura]

In regard to the divine and holy mysteries of the faith, not the least part may be
handed on without the Holy Scriptures. Do not be led astray by winning words and
clever arguments. Even to me, who tell you these things, do not give ready belief,
unless you receive from the Holy Scriptures the proof of the things which I announce.
The salvation in which we believe is not proved from clever reasoning, but from the
Holy Scriptures. (Catechetical Lectures, 4:17)
12. But in learning the Faith and in professing it, acquire and keep that only, which is
now delivered51 to thee by the Church, and which has been built up strongly out of
all the Scriptures. For since all cannot read the Scriptures, some being hindered as to
the knowledge of them by want of learning, and others by a want of leisure, in order
that the soul may not perish from ignorance, we comprise the whole doctrine of the
Faith in a few lines.

This summary I wish you both to commit to memory when I recite it52 , and to
rehearse it with all diligence among yourselves, not writing it out on paper53 , but
engraving it by the memory upon your heart54 , taking care while you rehearse it that
no Catechumen chance to overhear the things which have been delivered to you. I
wish you also to keep this as a provision55 through the whole course of your life, and
beside this to receive no other, neither if we ourselves should change and contradict
our present teaching, nor if an adverse angel, transformed into an angel of light56
should wish to lead you astray.

For though we or an angel from heaven preach to you any other gospel than that ye
have received, let him be to you anathema57 . So for the present listen while I simply
say the Creed58 , and commit it to memory; but at the proper season expect the
confirmation out of Holy Scripture of each part of the contents.

For the articles of the Faith were not composed as seemed good to men; but the most
important points collected out of all the Scripture make up one complete teaching of
the Faith. And just as the mustard seed in one small grain contains many branches, so
also this Faith has embraced in few words all the knowledge of godliness in the Old
and New Testaments. Take heed then, brethren, and hold fast the traditions59 which
ye now receive, and write them an the table of your heart. (Catechetical Lectures,
5:12)

Gregory of Nyssa [Sola Scriptura]

The generality of men still fluctuate in their opinions about this, which are as
erroneous as they are numerous. As for ourselves, if the Gentile philosophy, which
deals methodically with all these points, were really adequate for demonstration, it
would certainty be superfluous to add a discussion on the soul to those speculations.
But while the latter proceeded, on the subject of the soul, as for in the direction of
supposed consequences as the thinker pleased, we are not entitled to such license, I
mean that of affirming what we please; we make the Holy Scriptures the rule and
measure of every tenet; we necessarily fix our eyes upon that, and approve that alone
which may be made to harmonize with the intention of those writings. (Gregory of
Nyssa: Dogmatic Treatises On the Soul and the Resurrection, p. 439. Nicene and Post-
Nicene Fathers, Second Series: Volume V.)

Jerome [Sola Scriptura]

As we accept those things that are written, so we reject those things that are not
written (in Scripture) (Adv. Helvid.).

These things which they invent, as if by Apostolic tradition, without the authority of
Scripture, the sword of God smites. (In Aggari. Proph. Cap. I. II).

Athanasius [Sola Scriptura]

Vainly then do they run about with the pretext that they have demanded Councils for
the faiths sake; for divine Scripture is sufficient above all things; but if a Council be
needed on the point, there are the proceedings of the Fathers, for the Nicene Bishops
did not neglect this matter, but stated the doctrines so exactly, that persons reading
their words honestly, cannot but be reminded by them of the religion towards Christ
announced in divine Scripture. (De Synobis, 6)

Crysostom [Sola Scriptura]

All things are plain and simple in Holy Scriptures; all things necessary are evident.
(Homily 3 de. Laz.)

That may not be considered Catholic, which appears contrary to the statements of
Scripture. (Homily on Adam and Eve)

You have an exact standard and rule of all things. I beseech you, do not regard what
this or that man thinks, but enquire all things of the Scriptures. (2 Corinthians 6
Homily 13)

Augustine [Sola Scriptura]

This Mediator (Jesus Christ), having spoken what He judged sufficient first by the
prophets, then by His own lips, and afterwards by the Apostles, has besides produced
the Scripture which is called canonical, which has paramount authority, and to which
we yield assent in all matters of which we ought not be ignorant, and yet know of
ourselves. (St. Augustine, City of God, Book XI, Chapter 3)

what more can I teach you, than what we read in the Apostles? For holy Scripture
setteth a rule to our teaching, that we dare not be wise than it behoveth to be wise.
(St. Augustine, City of God, Book XI, Chapter 3)

The mediator (Jesus Christ), first through the Prophets, then by his own lips,
afterwards through the Apostles, revealed whatever he considered necessary. He also
inspired the Scriptures, which is regarded as canonical and of supreme authority and
to which we give credence concerning all those truths we ought to know and yet, of
ourselves, are unable to learn. (City of God, copyright 1958 by Fathers of the Church,
Inc., edited by Vernon J. Bourke, ISBN 0-385-02910-1, page 207).

For holy Scripture setteth a rule to our teaching, that we dare not be wise more than
it behoveth to be wise.Be it not therefore for me to teach you any other thing, save
to expound to you the words of the Teacher, and to treat the mass the Lord shall give
me. (Augustine, De Bono Viduitatis (On the Good of Widowhood).

Martin Luther [Sola Scriptura]

"Daily I feel how difficult it is to divest oneself of scruples long entertained. Oh! The
pain it has cost me, though with the Scriptures before me, to justify myself to myself,
for daring singly to set myself up against the Pope, and hold him as Antichrist! What
tribulations have I not suffered! How often have I not addressed to myself in
bitterness of the spirit the arguments of the Papists: 'Art thou alone wise?

Are all others in error? Can they have been so many years deceived? What if thou
deceivest thyself, and draggest along with thee in thy error so many souls to
everlasting damnation?' Thus I used to argue within myself until Jesus Christ with His
own, His infallible Word, fortified me, and strengthened my soul against such
arguments, as a rock raised above the waves laughs their fury to scorn." (Letters, Vol.
2, p. 107.)

John Knox [Sola Scriptura]

Chapter 19
The Authority of the Scriptures
As we believe and confess the scriptures of God sufficient to instruct and make the
man of God perfect, so do we affirm and avow the authority of the same to be of
God, and neither to depend on men nor angels.[1]

We affirm, therefore, that such as allege the scripture to have no authority, but that
which is received from the kirk, to be blasphemous against God, and injurious to the
true kirk, which always hears and obeys the voice of her own Spouse and Pastor, but
takes not upon her to be mistress over the same.[2]
1. 1 Tim. 3:16-17.
2. John 10:27. (The Scottish Confession of Faith, 1560)

Cyril Lucaris [Sola Scriptura]

Chapter2. We believe the Holy Scripture to be given by God, to have no other author
but the Holy Spirit. This we ought undoubtedly to believe, for it is written. We have a
more sure word of prophecy, to which you do well to take heed, as to light shining in
a dark place. We believe in the authority of the Holy Scripture to be above the
authority of the Chruch.

To be taught by the Holy Spirit is a far different things from being taught by man; for
man may through ignorance err, deceive and be deceived, but the word of God
neither deceives nor is deceived, nor can err, and is infallible and has eternal
authority. (The Confession of Cyril Lucarius, Chapter II)
By Timothy
8:37 am. EST
July 9, 2003