Chapter 1: The Holy Scriptures

We believe the Bible, the sixty-six books of the Old and New Testaments, is the inspired Word of God. It is the infallible and authoritative rule for faith and conduct.

“All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness” (2 Timothy 3:16). The writers did not invent their message: “holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost” (2 Peter 1:21). Scripture is also a guide for daily life: “Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path” (Psalm 119:105).

Because the Word is complete, it is not to be added to or taken from (Revelation 22:18-19). Every teaching, experience, and prophecy is tested by it (Isaiah 8:20; Acts 17:11).

Where the traditions stand. All of these churches begin here. The Assemblies of God places Scripture first among its Fundamental Truths. Evangelical Baptists hold that Scripture alone is the final authority. The Foursquare Church holds that the Bible is the inspired and only infallible rule for faith and practice. Spirit-filled churches add that the Spirit who inspired the Word also illuminates it for the reader.

Carry this verse: “Thy word is truth” (John 17:17).