Scripture as authoritative guide; infallibility affirmed; verbal inerrancy not required
The Church of the Brethren affirm the authoritative character of Scripture. The Bible is the word of God and the primary source for faith and practice. Believers should trust Scripture and obey its teachings.
However, the denomination does not require strict affirmation of absolute verbal inerrancy. This represents a moderate evangelical position. The Bible may contain ancient literary forms, cultural assumptions, and human language limitations while remaining authoritative and trustworthy for salvation and Christian living.
The Church of the Brethren emphasizes that Scripture is interpreted within the community (the church), not individualistically. The community's tradition (Brethren heritage), reason, and experience guide interpretation. This communal hermeneutic prevents both fundamentalism (claiming to have the only correct interpretation) and pure subjectivism.
Key Distinctions
- Inerrancy scope:
- Scripture is authoritative and trustworthy for faith and practice
- Hermeneutic approach:
- community interpretation; Scripture, tradition, reason, and experience together
Scripture References
Sources
- Church of the Brethren Church Manual and confessions
- CoB theological education materials and catechisms
- Brethren Life and Thought (theological journal)