Late textual addition; Trinitarian content affirmed but not relied upon as proof
Presbyterian Church in America recognizes that 1 John 5:7-8 (the Comma Johanneum) is a late textual addition not found in early Greek manuscripts. However, the PCA affirms the Trinitarian content of the passage: 'three bear witness in heaven: the Father, the Word, and the Holy Ghost: and these three are one.' This doctrinal truth is maintained on the basis of other, more reliable passages.
The PCA's defense of the Trinity does not depend on this verse. The Westminster Confession of Faith grounds Trinitarianism in the broad witness of Scripture (John 1:1, Matthew 28:19, 2 Corinthians 13:14, etc.). The Comma, while expressing a true doctrine, is not employed as the primary proof text. The PCA's scholarly tradition is willing to acknowledge the textual-critical evidence while maintaining doctrinal confidence.
Some PCA pulpits may cite the Comma when teaching the Trinity, with a note about its uncertain manuscript status. The doctrine of the Trinity stands on solid scriptural ground apart from this verse. The PCA's approach demonstrates a commitment to both accurate textual scholarship and doctrinal orthodoxy.
Key Distinctions
- Textual status:
- late addition; doctrine affirmed elsewhere; not primary proof text for Trinity
- Trinitarian grounding:
- Canonical status:
Scripture References
Sources
- Westminster Confession of Faith, Chapter II