Scripture alone (sola scriptura); no ongoing revelation; tradition is subordinate
The LCMS affirms the principle of sola scriptura—Scripture alone is the norming norm of doctrine and practice. Scripture is the written Word of God and is complete, authoritative, and sufficient for all matters of faith and conduct. No additional revelation from God is being given in the present age; the canon is closed and Scripture is final.
While the LCMS acknowledges the value of Christian tradition (the insights and teachings of faithful Christians throughout history) and the Lutheran confessions, these are always subordinate to Scripture. Tradition and confessions are helpful guides for understanding Scripture, but they cannot contradict Scripture or claim authority equal to Scripture. When tradition and Scripture conflict, Scripture must be obeyed.
The LCMS rejects ongoing prophecy, private revelation, new visions, additional scriptures (such as claimed by Mormonism or Christian Science), and any claim that God is still revealing new doctrines or practices outside of Scripture. The gifts of prophecy and direct revelation, according to LCMS teaching, belonged to the apostolic era and ceased with the close of the New Testament canon. The Holy Spirit works in the present age through the proclaimed and written Word, not through new revelations.
Key Distinctions
- Current revelation:
- denied — no new revelations, prophecies, or scriptures in the present age
- Tradition authority:
- valuable but subordinate to Scripture; subordinate standards of interpretation
Scripture References
Sources
- Book of Concord: Smalcald Articles, Part II, on Scripture as sole authority
- LCMS doctrine on the sufficiency and finality of Scripture; cessationist eschatology