The Lutheran Confessions state that the Scriptures alone are the only rule and norm for faith and life. The Latin expression "sola scriptura" (scripture alone) was coined by reformers like Martin Luther and refers to the authority of the Holy Scriptures to serve as the sole norm for all that is taught and confessed in the church.
In numerous places the Scriptures themselves claim authority as the inspired Word of God. Paul writes in 2 Tim. 3:16 that "All scripture is inspired by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness," The Apostle Peter also declares that "no prophecy of scripture is a matter of one's own interpretation, for no prophecy ever came about by the impulse of man, but men moved along by the Holy Spirit spoke from God" (2 Pet. 1:20-21).
Acceptance of the Bible as the sole authority for teaching comes not from rational arguments or human traditions, but a conviction produced by the Holy Spirit in the human heart. It is a matter of faith worked by the Holy Spirit through the Means of Grace and the Scriptures themselves.
As the Holy Spirit reveals this to us, we are renewed, refreshed, and reformed by the power of God's Word, as we come to realize that it's time for us to get "Back to the Bible".
The Reformers were right. Verbum Dei Manet Aeternum - The Word of the Lord endures forever.
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