2. Reformed theology uses logic, but takes its stand on the Bible.
We must use logic to communicate clearly and coherently. Otherwise, we speak in empty riddles that darken people’s minds instead of bringing light. However, human wisdom cannot lead us to God (1 Cor. 1:21). 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. 55:6–11). Therefore, Reformed theology builds all of its doctrines upon the study and interpretation of the Bible, the written Word of God (Isa. 8:20). 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.”
—Dr. Joel Beeke, Reformed Systematic Theology
Reformed churches are often criticized for giving greater authority to confessions than to Scripture. This is an inaccurate criticism and untrue of Bethel. The Shorter Catechism, Q. 2 states our convictions very clearly. To the Question “What rule hath God given to direct us how we may glorify and enjoy him?” The answer is given, “The Word of God, which is contained in the Scriptures of the Old and New Testaments, is the only rule to direct us how we may glorify and enjoy him.” Our theology as expressed in the ancient confessions and catechism is the result of careful study of the Scriptures by godly scholars over the history of the church. They express how we understand or interpret the teaching of Scripture. We do not impose our theology upon the Scriptures, instead, our theology comes from the Bible.
Our view of Scripture can also be seen in my preaching. I usually preach through a book or section of Scripture going verse by verse. Week after week we considered what God says to us in His word and apply it to our lives. It is the Word of God, infallible and inerrant, that is our authority and the voice of God to us today and “everything that we need for life and godliness.” (II Peter 1:3)
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