Evangelical Quakers tend to affirm biblical authority and inspiration, though some distinguish between inspiration (divine origin) and inerrancy (freedom from error). Many evangelical Quakers hold that the Bible is supremely authoritative for faith and practice. However, even evangelical Quakers subordinate biblical authority to the Inner Light in some ways, reflecting Quaker distinctives.

Liberal Quakers approach scripture more critically, engaging with historical and literary analysis. They may affirm the Bible's spiritual authority while questioning inerrancy and accepting historical and scientific findings that differ from biblical texts. Some liberal Quakers emphasize that the Spirit's guidance may lead them beyond biblical prescriptions on particular issues. This reflects the broader Quaker principle that divine truth exceeds any single written source.