Universal Church of the Kingdom of God
The Wesleyan Church
Nuanced

Scripture is Word of God and authoritative; inerrancy in originals affirmed by many; no creedal formula

The Church of God (Anderson) holds a high view of Scripture as the Word of God, recognizing it as authoritative and trustworthy for all matters of faith and practice. While many Church of God members affirm the inerrancy of Scripture in the original manuscripts, the church has not issued a formal, binding creedal statement requiring all members to affirm inerrancy. This reflects the church's principle of Scripture alone: each believer is responsible for their own interpretation of Scripture rather than being bound by denominational formulations.

The church affirms that Scripture is inspired by God and reliable for guidance in Christian faith and life. Whether one emphasizes 'inerrancy,' 'infallibility,' or 'divine authority,' the shared conviction is that Scripture is God's reliable word to His people. The church avoids making specific theories of inspiration and inerrancy tests of fellowship, preferring to emphasize practical devotion to Scripture and doctrinal humility in interpretative matters.

Key Distinctions

Inerrancy scope:
in original autographs (widely affirmed); specific formula not binding
Hermeneutic approach:
no binding inerrancy formula; Scripture interpretation left to individuals

Scripture References

Sources

  • Church of God (Anderson) Article I — Scripture (non-prescriptive on inerrancy formulas)
  • Daniel S. Warner, Biblical Authority Writings
  • Church of God (Anderson) Official Statements