Extra-biblical Revelation

The PCA affirms sola scriptura—Scripture alone is the authoritative rule for faith and practice—and denies that God continues to give new revelation to the church through prophecy, visions, or other extra-biblical means. The apostolic age, when prophets and apostles received direct revelation, has concluded.

While the PCA affirms the ongoing work of the Holy Spirit in illumination (helping believers understand Scripture), it denies that the Spirit gives new information beyond Scripture. Illumination is the Spirit's work in applying the finished revelation to hearts; it is not additional revelation.

The PCA is cessationist: the miraculous sign gifts, including apostolic prophecy, were unique to the apostolic era and have ceased. Charismatics and Pentecostals who claim ongoing prophecy are viewed as erring in their understanding of the closure of the canon and the sufficiency of Scripture. The church is called to submit all experience and practice to the test of Scripture.