Let’s see if we can summarize these matters. The term “sola scriptura” is not found in the Bible, as it is a Latin phrase created by some men to describe a belief system and to distance themselves from another belief system that was created by a different group of men. As a manmade expression, its meaning can vary from person to person. Even if such a belief system “sounds good” or “seems to align with what the Bible teaches,” why not just go to the Bible and let the Bible teach what the Bible teaches?
First, the Bible teaches that ALL Scripture in the Old Testament and New Testament is inspired of God. Second, the Bible teaches that the 66 books of the Old Testament and New Testament are ALL-sufficient for man today. Third, the Bible teaches that the truth of God’s Word has been once for ALL delivered. Fourth, the Bible teaches that the Bible is ALL-authoritative in our lives. Finally, the Bible teaches that the Bible is PERFECT and demands (and deserves) ALL respect and obedience.
When Jesus came to this earth, the Catholic church did not exist (and would not for hundreds of years). When Jesus came to this earth, the protestant movement and “sola scriptura” did not exist (and would not for over one thousand years). When Jesus came to this earth, He set the standard for us in “handling aright the word of truth” by not holding to any manmade doctrines or traditions. Listen to Jesus: “For I have not spoken on My own authority; but the Father who sent Me gave Me a command, what I should say and what I should speak. And I know that His command is everlasting life. Therefore, whatever I speak, just as the Father has told Me, so I speak” (John 12:49-50).
If Jesus Himself would not speak on His authority apart from what the Father commanded, who are we to do any different? If Jesus Himself would only speak what the Father said, who are we to do any different? His Word is perfect, complete, sufficient, final, enduring, authoritative and our only means to eternal life (John 6:68). I don’t need to know Catholic dogmas or protestant terminology. I only need to concern myself with, “What does the Bible say?” Let’s just go back to the Bible. Let’s speak where the Bible speaks. Let’s call Bible things by Bible names, do Bible things in Bible ways, and believe, teach and practice only those things that are in accordance with God’s full revelation in the Bible.
Heaven is too important! Jesus said, “Not everyone who says to Me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ shall enter the kingdom of heaven, but he who does the will of My Father in heaven” (Matt. 7:21). Let’s go to the Bible, teach only the Bible, do His will as revealed in the Bible, and help others to do the same.