UMC Doctrine: The Bible

The United Methodist Church’s doctrinal standards discuss the Bible. Here is part of what they say.

Articles of Religion V and VI

The Holy Scripture containeth all things necessary to salvation; so that whatsoever is not read therein, nor may be proved thereby, is not to be required of any man that it should be believed as an article of faith, or be thought requisite or necessary to salvation. In the name of the Holy Scripture we do understand those canonical books of the Old and New Testament of whose authority was never any doubt in the church. …

The Old Testament is not contrary to the New; for both in the Old and New Testament everlasting life is offered to mankind by Christ, who is the only Mediator between God and man, being both God and Man. Wherefore they are not to be heard who feign that the old fathers did look only for transitory promises. Although the law given from God by Moses as touching ceremonies and rites doth not bind Christians, nor ought the civil precepts thereof of necessity be received in any commonwealth; yet notwithstanding, no Christian whatsoever is free from the obedience of the commandments which are called moral.

The Confession of Faith Article IV

We believe the Holy Bible, Old and New Testaments, reveals the Word of God so far as it is necessary for our salvation. It is to be received through the Holy Spirit as the true rule and guide for faith and practice. Whatever is not revealed in or established by the Holy Scriptures is not to be made an article of faith nor is it to be taught as essential to salvation.

These are both rather Protestant in their outlook. Both take pains to set up the Bible as a defense against the encroachments of human rules and practices. But they have positive content as well. Both establish the purpose of the Bible as existing for our salvation. It is a guide to all that is necessary and sufficient for that purpose. They also both hold together the Old and New Testaments. The Articles of Religion take special pains to emphasize the importance of the moral law of the Old Testament.

Perhaps taking a page from Joel Osteen, we should take a moment to hold up our Bibles during worship and recite these words from time to time.