Institutes of the Christian Religion by John Calvin - Scriptures Must Be Confirmed by the Witness of the Spirit. Thus May Its Authority Be Established as Certain; And It Is A Wicked Falsehood That...

John Calvin, in "Institutes of the Christian Religion," asserts that Scripture's authority originates from God, not the church. He argues against the notion that Scripture's weight depends on church consent, deeming it a "pernicious error." Calvin emphasizes that the church is built upon the foundation of the prophets and apostles, whose teachings held authority before the church existed. Therefore, the church does not grant authority to Scripture but rather recognizes and venerates it as God's truth.Calvin refutes the idea that Augustine believed Scripture's authority derived from the church, clarifying that Augustine's statement was directed at unbelievers, not the godly. For believers, the certainty of Scripture comes from a different foundation. Calvin insists the ultimate proof of Scripture's authority lies in God speaking through it. He contends that the highest proof comes from recognizing God as the author of the words.He posits that true conviction comes not from human reasoning or judgments, but from the "secret testimony of the Spirit." While rational arguments for Scripture's divine origin exist, Calvin emphasizes that the Spirit's inward testimony is superior and necessary for genuine acceptance. He states that Scripture is "self-authenticated" and attains certainty through the Spirit's witness, not human proof. Believers, illumined by the Spirit, recognize Scripture as flowing directly from God's mouth, surpassing human judgment and guesswork. This conviction, sealed by the Spirit, provides a secure and constant repose for the mind, born of heavenly revelation.Reformed Theologian GPT: https://chat.openai.com/g/g-XXwzX1gnv-reformed-theologianPatreon: patreon.com/edi_reformed