What is the rule of faith?
The Rule of Faith: A Baptist Theological Perspective
The concept of the rule of faith refers to the authoritative standard or guiding principle by which matters of faith, doctrine, and Christian practice are evaluated. Although the phrase itself does not appear in Scripture, it was first introduced by Tertullian, an early church writer, in his work On Prescription Against Heretics. Tertullian used the term to emphasize the core teachings and doctrines that defined orthodox Christianity as opposed to heretical deviations. In this context, the rule of faith represents the foundational truths of the Christian faith as derived from the inspired Word of God.
From a Baptist theological perspective, the rule of faith is synonymous with the sufficiency of Scripture—the belief that the Bible alone is the complete and infallible guide for Christian faith and practice. This conviction is rooted in passages such as 2 Timothy 3:16–17: “All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work” (NKJV). This declaration emphasizes that Scripture alone makes the believer thoroughly equipped, leaving no need for additional sources of authority.
Biblical Basis for the Rule of Faith
The sufficiency of Scripture as the rule of faith is woven throughout the Bible:
Scripture as God’s Inspired Word:
The Bible is described as the very breath of God, making it authoritative and inerrant. 2 Peter 1:20–21 affirms, “Knowing this first, that no prophecy of Scripture is of any private interpretation, for prophecy never came by the will of man, but holy men of God spoke as they were moved by the Holy Spirit” (NKJV). This supernatural origin sets Scripture apart from any human tradition or supplemental writings.The Finality of God’s Revelation:
The New Testament completes God’s revelation to humanity. Jude 1:3 urges believers to “contend earnestly for the faith which was once for all delivered to the saints” (NKJV), indicating that the Christian faith has been fully revealed and preserved in Scripture.The All-Sufficient Word:
Scripture is described as sufficient for equipping believers in all aspects of life and godliness. Psalm 19:7 declares, “The law of the Lord is perfect, converting the soul; the testimony of the Lord is sure, making wise the simple” (NKJV). The perfection and completeness of God’s Word negate the need for external sources of authority.
The Rule of Faith in Church History
Throughout church history, the rule of faith has been defined differently by various groups, often leading to theological divergence. Below are some examples of how the rule of faith has been understood:
Roman Catholicism:
The Roman Catholic Church teaches that the rule of faith includes both Scripture and sacred tradition. This dual-source approach places the decrees of popes, ecumenical councils, and church tradition on equal footing with Scripture. For example, the Council of Trent declared that church tradition was of equal authority to the Bible. However, this approach contradicts Mark 7:6–13, where Jesus rebukes the Pharisees for nullifying the Word of God through human traditions. “You have made the commandment of God of no effect by your tradition” (Mark 7:13, NKJV).Gnosticism:
The early heretical movement of Gnosticism added mystical knowledge or secret revelations to the rule of faith, claiming that salvation came through enlightenment available only to an elite group. This is in stark contrast to the biblical teaching of salvation by grace alone through faith alone (Ephesians 2:8–9) and the clarity of Scripture’s message for all who believe.Mormonism:
Groups such as The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (Mormonism) have expanded their rule of faith to include additional texts such as The Book of Mormon, Doctrine and Covenants, and The Pearl of Great Price. These additions undermine the sufficiency of Scripture, as declared in Revelation 22:18–19: “For I testify to everyone who hears the words of the prophecy of this book: If anyone adds to these things, God will add to him the plagues that are written in this book” (NKJV).Wesleyan Quadrilateral:
The Wesleyan tradition introduced the idea of a “quadrilateral” rule of faith, comprising Scripture, tradition, reason, and experience. While Scripture is considered primary, this approach opens the door for subjective elements such as personal experience and human reasoning to influence doctrine. However, Proverbs 3:5 warns, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding” (NKJV). Elevating human experience to the same level as God’s Word risks distorting biblical truth.
Baptist Theology and the Rule of Faith
Baptists, as part of the evangelical tradition, hold steadfastly to Sola Scriptura, the doctrine that Scripture alone is the ultimate authority for faith and practice. This principle is grounded in several key convictions:
The Inerrancy and Infallibility of Scripture:
Baptists affirm that the Bible is without error and fully trustworthy in all it teaches. Proverbs 30:5 states, “Every word of God is pure; He is a shield to those who put their trust in Him” (NKJV).The Clarity of Scripture:
Baptists believe that Scripture is clear and accessible to all believers, not requiring the mediation of church authorities. Psalm 119:105 proclaims, “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path” (NKJV).The Priesthood of All Believers:
In alignment with 1 Peter 2:9, Baptists emphasize that every believer has direct access to God and is responsible for studying and applying His Word.The Sufficiency of Scripture:
Baptists reject the need for supplemental traditions or writings. As Isaiah 8:20 advises, “To the law and to the testimony! If they do not speak according to this word, it is because there is no light in them” (NKJV).
Conclusion: Scripture Alone as the Rule of Faith
The rule of faith, from a Baptist perspective, is firmly rooted in the sufficiency, clarity, and authority of Scripture. The Bible is God’s inspired Word, fully adequate to equip believers for every good work (2 Timothy 3:16–17). Baptists reject any additions to or deviations from Scripture, affirming that “The entirety of Your word is truth, and every one of Your righteous judgments endures forever” (Psalm 119:160, NKJV).
By adhering to the Bible alone as the rule of faith, Baptists strive to faithfully proclaim the gospel, defend the truth, and live lives pleasing to God. This commitment echoes the words of Jude 1:3: “Contend earnestly for the faith which was once for all delivered to the saints” (NKJV). Scripture, illuminated by the Holy Spirit, remains the unshakable foundation of the Christian life and the ultimate standard for faith and practice.
