What Is the Sufficiency of Scripture — In Biblical Context

The Biblical Context

The sufficiency of Scripture is the doctrine that the sixty-six books of the Bible contain all the words God intends His people to have for faith and life in this age. We do not need new revelations, dreams, visions, or extra-biblical traditions added to Scripture to know God's will. The classic proof text is 2 Timothy 3:16-17: 'All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: That the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works.' Notice the result: the believer is 'throughly furnished unto all good works.' If Scripture furnishes us for every good work, no additional source is necessary. Psalm 19:7 testifies, 'The law of the LORD is perfect, converting the soul: the testimony of the LORD is sure, making wise the simple.' 2 Peter 1:3 says God 'hath given unto us all things that pertain unto life and godliness, through the knowledge of him.' Sufficiency does not mean the Bible answers every question we might ask — it is silent on medicine, engineering, or what we should eat for breakfast. But it does answer every question necessary for salvation and sanctification. It also means we must not subtract from or add to Scripture (Deuteronomy 4:2; Revelation 22:18-19). The Roman Catholic addition of tradition, the Mormon addition of the Book of Mormon, and the charismatic claim of ongoing revelation all undermine this doctrine. Practically, sufficiency drives us to study, memorize, and meditate on Scripture rather than chase after experiences. It frees us from anxiety about needing 'more' from God — He has spoken fully in His Word and finally in His Son (Hebrews 1:1-2). The Bible is enough.

Where It Sits in Scripture

Supporting Passages