The Highway Forums General Discussion Theology Discussion Forum Sola Scriptura

You state that you agree that the Scriptures are sufficient[/b], however, it would be helpful if you defined what you mean by [i]sufficient... and sufficient for what?

I'm not sure what you mean by "the usefulness and Inspiriation of Scripture is commended to the power of the oral tradition." Are you asserting that "Inspiration" applies to something other than the written God-breathed (inspired) Word of God, aka: the Scriptures?

I would not deny the necessity of "teachers" within the Church (cf. Eph 4:11ff). However, it still remains true that the Scriptures are in and of themselves perspicuous and self-interpreting, else how would the teacher come to understand what they say? The "missing element" is of course, the Holy Spirit Who works through and by the Scriptures to enlighten the mind. (Jh 14:26; 1Jh 1:27) Without the initial work of regeneration, the Scriptures will not be able to be rightly understood and especially put into practice. (cf. Rom 8:7,8; 1Cor 2:14-16)

I'm not sure I suggested that "Tradition was at first inspired,... etc." Where did "tradition" come into this dialog? I surely didn't mention it.

Re: "Apostolic oral tradition" continues you say? How could that be since the Apostles have all died. Are you suggesting that the office of Apostle has continued, i.e., Apostolic Succession so that there are actual Apostles today who meet the qualifications of Apostle which the original 12 plus Paul had to meet, not excluding having been with the Lord Christ during His earthly ministry? Paul seems to refute any such idea of some apostolic tradition by finalizing their role in his letter to the Ephesians:

Once the foundation of a building is layed, it does not continue to be built. It's sole purpose is to undergird all that proceeds. Everything thereafter is built upon the foundation.