Denies
No new revelation after Scripture; cessationism; Word of God complete.
Plymouth Brethren reject ongoing prophetic revelation beyond Scripture. They maintain a cessationist position—the gifts of prophecy and new revelation ceased with the apostolic age. Scripture is complete and sufficient; no additional canonical or binding revelation comes after the biblical books. This does not prevent the Holy Spirit from illuminating Scripture or guiding believers, but any guidance is subject to Scripture's authority. The canon is closed.
Key Distinctions
- Current revelation:
- closed — public revelation ended with the death of the Apostles; Scripture is complete
- Prophetic gifts today:
- miraculous prophetic gifts ceased with the Apostolic age (cessationist)
- Tradition authority:
- Scripture alone (sola scriptura) is the final norm
Scripture References
Sources
- J.N. Darby, Lectures on Doctrine
- Plymouth Brethren doctrinal tradition