I. The Scripture
 

The Bible is the written revelation of God. The sixty-six books of the Bible given to us by the Holy Spirit constitute the plenary (inspired equally in all parts) Word of God. The Word of God is an objective, propositional revelation, verbally inspired in every word, absolutely inerrant in the original documents, infallible, and God-breathed. 1 Corinthians 2:7-14; 1 Thessalonians 2:13; 2 Timothy 3:16; 2 Peter 1:20-21
 

God spoke His written Word by a process of dual authorship. The Holy Spirit superintended the human authors so that what they wrote are the very words of God yet also according to each individual’s personality and different style of writing. They recorded and composed God's Word to man without error. Matthew 5:18; Ephesians 4:17; 2 Timothy 3:16; 2 Peter 1:20-21.

 

The Bible is to be interpreted according to the literal, grammatical-historical method of interpretation which affirms that the opening chapters of Genesis present creation in six literal days. Genesis 1:31; Exodus 31:17.
 

The Bible constitutes the only inerrant and infallible rule of faith and practice and must be obediently submitted to in every aspect of life. Matthew 5:18; 24:35; John 10:35; 16:12-13; 17:17; 2 Timothy 3:15-17; Hebrews 4:12; 2 Peter 1:20-21.
 

There are several applications of any given passage of Scripture, but there is only one correct interpretation. Scripture's meaning is found as the believer consistently applies the literal, grammatical-historical method of interpretation under the enlightenment of the Holy Spirit. It is the responsibility of believers to carefully ascertain the true intent and meaning of Scripture, recognizing that proper application of biblical truth is binding on all Christians. The Bible is the standard of conduct for all people and stands in judgment of them; never do people stand in judgment of the Bible. It is vested with God’s authority. John 7:17; 16:12-15; 1 Corinthians 2:7- 15; 1 John 2:20.
 

A book’s canonicity is determined by its inspiration, not by men or church council. The recognition of this inspiration and the collection of the books together were governed by God. Deuteronomy 31:25-27; Luke 11:51; John 17:17; 1 Timothy 5:18.