Prophecy and words of knowledge continue but must align with Scripture
Calvary Chapel's continuationist position on spiritual gifts means that it affirms contemporary prophecy, words of knowledge, and other revelatory gifts. However, these are firmly subordinated to Scripture. No contemporary revelation is regarded as adding to or superseding the biblical canon. All claimed prophetic words must be tested against Scripture.
This balance — affirming ongoing revelatory gifts while insisting on Scripture's supremacy — is characteristic of Calvary Chapel's middle-ground position. The movement avoids both the cessationist closure ('God no longer speaks this way') and the excessive subjectivism of some charismatic circles where personal prophecies can overshadow biblical authority.
Key Distinctions
- Current revelation:
- closed — public revelation ended with the death of the Apostles; Scripture is complete
- Prophetic gifts today:
- open but cautious — tongues and prophecy practiced; not required as initial evidence
- Tradition authority:
- Scripture alone (sola scriptura) is the final norm
Scripture References
Sources
- Calvary Chapel Distinctives (Chuck Smith)