Sufficiency of Scripture

In comparison to many sacred writings, scripture is very unique. First, scripture is inspired by God. Hence, God impressed upon certain people to write down His thoughts and teachings so that they could be shared with other people (2 Pet. 1:20-21). Because scripture is inspired by God, it is good for teachings, correcting someone in love, and instructing someone how to live a righteous life within Christ (2 Tim. 3:16).

Second, scripture is alive. Its power is capable of piercing into the core of a man’s heart and separate their thoughts from the interests of their heart (Heb. 4:12; 1 Pet. 1:23). Third, scripture is eternal and strong. It has existed for many years and across many cultures. Even amongst adverse cultures such as those of the Middle East, scripture has remained strong (Is. 40:8; 1 Pet. 1:23, 25). Fourth, scripture is pure. Scripture is not corrupt; it is without blemish (Ps. 18:30, Prov. 30:5).  Fifth, scripture is true and certain. It has been tested and found to be correct (Ps. 18:30; 33:5). Because it is truth, it holds the power to sanctify (Jn. 17:17). 

Sixth, scripture brings about peace. It holds the power to bring the attribute of patience, comfort, and hope into a person (Rom. 15:4). Finally, scripture fulfills its mission. For instance, if scripture is aimed at bringing about peace to a person’s heart, it will do so. Scripture always fulfills its mission and does not return without doing so (Is. 55:11). In closing, in comparison to many sacred writings that exist throughout the world, scripture holds the ability to meet all of the needs of a person. It has no need to be supplemented; it can exist and work on its own through the power of the Holy Spirit.

The first scriptures (2 Pet. 1:20-21), were chosen because they make reference towards God’s involvement in communication with His creation. The second scripture (2 Tim. 3:16) was chosen because of its further elaboration of God’s involvement in communicating with His creation, but also in regards to obeying and relating with Him. The third scripture set (Heb. 4:12; 1 Pet. 1:23) was chosen because of the power of scripture to separate abstract things; those which cannot be done outside of God.  The fourth scripture set (Is. 40:8; 1 Pet. 1:23, 25), was chosen simply because it presents the strength and endurance of scripture.  The fifth scripture set (Ps. 18:30, Prov. 30:5) was chosen because it presents the pureness of scripture (Ps. 18:30, Prov. 30:5). 

The sixth scripture set (Ps. 18:30; 33:5) was chosen because it presents the validity of scripture; it holds up to its word. The seventh scripture (Jn. 17:17) was chosen because it simply speaks over the power of sanctification through scripture. The eighth scripture (Rom. 15:4) was chosen because it presents its ability to bring about peace. The last scripture (Is. 55:11) was chosen because it presents how scripture has a goal, and is set on accomplishing its goal.