The idea of a “Bible-only” church may sound appealing at first—it suggests a direct, unmediated approach to Scripture, free from human interference. However, in practice, such a concept is impossible. Every church, no matter how much it emphasizes the authority of the Bible, operates within the framework of interpretation, tradition, and community. Here’s why:
1. The Bible Requires Interpretation
The Bible is not a list of bullet-pointed instructions; it’s a collection of diverse texts written in various genres, languages, and cultural contexts. From parables and poetry to laws and letters, Scripture often requires interpretation to understand its meaning.
For example, consider Jesus’ command to “turn the other cheek” (Matthew 5:39). Does this mean Christians should never defend themselves or their families? Or Paul’s instructions on head coverings in 1 Corinthians 11—are these meant to be followed literally today? Churches inevitably make interpretive decisions when applying biblical principles to modern contexts, and those interpretations are shaped by theological frameworks, historical traditions, and communal understanding.
2. Creeds and Confessions Reflect Biblical Doctrine
Even churches that claim to rely solely on the Bible often use doctrinal statements, creeds, or confessions to articulate their beliefs. These summaries serve as lenses through which Scripture is read and understood. For example:
- The Nicene Creed affirms the doctrine of the Trinity, which is derived from Scripture but not explicitly spelled out in a single verse.
- The Apostles’ Creed summarizes key elements of the gospel, offering a unifying foundation for Christian belief.
These documents show that the church has always needed tools outside the Bible itself to define and defend orthodox faith.
3. The Role of Tradition in Shaping Theology
Protestants often reject the notion of tradition as having equal authority with Scripture, but tradition still plays a role in every church. For instance:
- The Protestant doctrine of sola scriptura (Scripture alone) emerged from the Reformation, but this very doctrine is a tradition passed down through centuries.
- How we worship, organize church leadership, and interpret controversial topics like baptism, communion, or the end times often depends on traditions inherited from prior generations.
Even the decision to read the Bible in a certain translation or to prioritize specific passages reflects an underlying tradition.
4. Community Shapes Understanding
The Bible was never meant to be read in isolation. From the earliest days of the church, Scripture has been read, discussed, and interpreted within a community of believers. In Acts 15, for instance, the apostles and elders met in Jerusalem to determine how to apply Old Testament law to Gentile believers. Their decisions were based on Scripture, prayer, and communal discernment—a clear example of the interplay between the Word of God and the church’s interpretive authority.
Similarly, today’s churches rely on pastors, theologians, and the broader Christian tradition to guide their understanding of Scripture. No church exists in a vacuum, and no one interprets the Bible without the influence of prior teaching and communal input.
The Inescapable Role of Tradition
In reality, every church is shaped by tradition, even if it denies it. The key is to recognize this role and ensure that our traditions align with the teachings of Scripture and the essentials of the Christian faith. While the Bible remains the ultimate authority, the church’s interpretive frameworks, creeds, and communal practices help us navigate its complexities and live out its truths.
Instead of striving to be a “Bible-only” church—a concept that doesn’t truly exist—let us embrace being a Bible-centered church, rooted in the Word, guided by the Spirit, and informed by the faithful witness of the global and historic church.
