The Highway Forums General Discussion Theology Discussion Forum WCOF

In reply to:

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[color:"blue"]Could the Westminster Confession of Faith contain error in it, or is it considered to be inerrant like the Bible?

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Here's what the Confession says about itself, albeit by inference, in Chapter I, Article X:

X. The supreme judge by which all controversies of religion are to be determined, and all decrees of councils, opinions of ancient writers, doctrines of men, and private spirits, are to be examined, and in whose sentence we are to rest, can be no other but the Holy Spirit speaking in the Scripture.

Clearly, the writers of the Confession did not consider it to be inspired nor the ultimate authority, but rather subservient to the Scriptures, which is the sole and final authority in all matters of faith and practice. In Chapter 31, Article III it says,

III. All synods or councils, since the Apostles' times, whether general or particular, may err; and many have erred. Therefore they are not to be made the rule of faith, or practice; but to be used as a help in both.

In reply to:

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[color:"blue"]Do those in the Presbyterian Church hold to the WCOF as being equal with the Bible or as a help added to it for understanding it.

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Well, as in any denomination, you are going to find a variety of views. Doubtless, there are some who act and speak as if the WCF was inspired of God and is the ultimate authority in all things. And, you will surely find that there are Presbyterians who haven't even heard of the Westminster Confession of Faith. It is hoped, of course, that the majority views and uses the Confession as it was intended, i.e., a subordinate authority, a true summary of the Scriptures' doctrines, a means to maintain uniformity of doctrine and order among the churches and as an aid to prevent the entrance of heresy, among other things.

In His Grace,