Tradition can be the bane or blessing of the church. Reformed theology is historical and confessional. The Westminster Confession of Faith says, “The infallible rule of interpretation of Scripture is the Scripture itself: and therefore, when there is a question about the true and full sense of any Scripture (which is not manifold, but one), it must be searched and known by other places that speak more clearly.” 4. Reformed theology helps us by providing a systematic presentation of biblical truth so that we can interpret Scripture with Scripture (“the analogy of Scripture”). 3:16), the Bible presents a coherent message on each point of its doctrine and ethics. Since all Scripture is inspired or “breathed out” by God (2 Tim. The largest context is what the whole Bible teaches on the particular topic at hand. In Reformed exegesis and hermeneutics, context is king. Reformed theology helps us to understand and apply all Scripture. God is so much greater than we are, and his ways so much higher than ours, that we can only know him truly as he makes himself known in his Word.ģ. John Owen said, “The student of theology must demonstrate by his life the absolute authority of the Scriptures, and show himself devoutly submitting his own will and judgment to the authority of the Bible in all matters.” Therefore, Reformed theology builds all of its doctrines upon the study and interpretation of the Bible, the written Word of God (Isa. God is so much greater than we are, and his ways so much higher than ours, that we can only know him truly as he makes himself known in his Word (Isa. However, human wisdom cannot lead us to God (1 Cor. Otherwise, we speak in empty riddles that darken people’s minds instead of bringing light. We must use logic to communicate clearly and coherently. Reformed theology uses logic, but takes its stand on the Bible. Everywhere he sees God in His mighty stepping, everywhere he feels the working of His mighty arm, the throbbing of His mighty heart.” The magnificent obsession of Reformed Christianity, and indeed the very purpose for which mankind exists, is “to glorify God, and to enjoy him forever,” as the Westminster Shorter Catechism says. God in nature, God in history, God in grace. Warfield said, “The Calvinist, in a word, is the man who sees God. For this reason, it is often called “God-centered” theology. The heart and soul of Reformed theology is the glory of the triune God (Ps.
Reformed theology celebrates the glory of God. This article is part of the 10 Things You Should Know series.
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