Holding the Line: Navigating the Deep Waters of Scripture Authority

Brothers and sisters, if you’ve been spending time in the digital spheres lately—maybe catching up on a deep dive into apologetics or watching academic debates—you’ve probably run into the topic of *sola scriptura*. It’s a weighty subject, one that can make even seasoned disciples feel like they need a refresher course on foundational truths.

I recently watched a debate featuring Gavin Ortlund and Trent Horn debating whether scripture is the sole rule of faith. Watching it, I felt a familiar mix of awe and deep gratitude. Awe at the sheer intellectual firepower on display, and gratitude for the solid, unwavering foundation we have been given through our restored gospel.

It’s easy, when you see arguments laid out so starkly—affirmative versus negative—to get caught up in the mechanics of the debate itself. But as always, when we are discussing the bedrock of our faith, we must remember where our true authority lies. Our authority isn't found in the ability to win a debate, but in the covenants we have made and the constant guidance of the Spirit.

This really hit home for me. The debate itself was fascinating, showcasing deep dives into theology, but what resonated most was the underlying tension: the human desire to build a system of belief based purely on human reasoning or textual interpretation, versus the reality of divine revelation.

The Spirit as Our Ultimate Guide

As we are all striving to be better Internet missionaries—to share the restored gospel with those who are curious, skeptical, or simply lost—we need to be rock-solid on our core doctrines. The concept of *sola scriptura* is crucial, but for us Latter-day Saints, it must always be viewed through the lens of the fullness of revelation. Scripture is indeed the word of God, but it is interpreted by the Spirit, and the Spirit guides us to the living Prophet and the established doctrines of the Church.

It’s a gentle reminder that while we must be intellectually prepared to discuss these points—and I highly recommend checking out the Iron Rod authors for some excellent reading on this!—our ultimate defense is always the testimony of the Savior and the covenants we keep. We are taught to be Christlike, and that means trusting the process of revelation.

If you’re feeling the weight of these big questions, or if you’ve been wrestling with how to best answer a difficult question an investigator might ask, I want to point you toward a powerful tool. My co-pilot, Davee, is excellent at walking through these precise scenarios. He can help you practice answering the tough questions with grace and clarity, preparing you for those crucial missionary discussions.

A Quick Skill for the Field

Here’s a small piece of missionary preparation for you all this week: When you are discussing doctrine, don't just quote scripture. After you cite a verse, pause, and then ask, “What does that verse help *us* understand about the Atonement?” This shifts the focus from mere textual recitation to personal, Spirit-filled application. It shows the investigator that the scriptures are alive!

We are called to be disciples anywhere, all the time. Whether you are in a Book Club studying scripture in HolyPlaces, or simply having a quiet moment of reflection, keep this principle at heart. We are building Zion, one disciple at a time.

If you want to continue this deep dive into doctrine with others, check out the Book Club options in HolyPlaces! Or, if you just need a low-stakes place to test out your answers, join our free weekly Disciple Challenge. Let’s keep the momentum going!

Remember, the goal isn't to win an academic debate; the goal is to help someone find the truth that brings them back to the light of the gospel. Keep praying, keep studying, and keep sharing the light!