Download: Restoration Theology Student Notes

Introduction to Bible Series

7-part series: Manuscripts, textual criticism, translation, interpretation, application.

Cover basics; go deeper if interested.

Two key principles: Primacy (Bible first) and perspicuity (Bible is clear).

Primacy of Scripture

Primacy: First importance/authority (e.g., diplomacy over war).

Sources of knowledge: Perception, innate, introspection, memory, reasoning, others, revelation.

Conflicts: Trust God most (ultimate expert).

Bible as revelation: 2 Tim 3:16-17 – God-breathed, useful for teaching/correction.

Primacy over tradition, reason, experience.

Perspicuity of Scripture

Perspicuity: Clarity; Bible understandable without experts.

Not all parts equally clear (e.g., Revelation vs. basics).

Clear on essentials (salvation, morals).

Early views: Church fathers like Chrysostom affirmed clarity.

Reformation: Luther vs. Catholic need for magisterium.

Inerrancy and Infallibility

Inerrancy: idea that the Bible contains no errors

Infallibility: idea that the Bible contains no mistakes

Historiography: Ancient standards differ on precision

Conclusion: Bible is primary and clear on essentials.