ARE SOF’S BAD?

For I delivered to you as of first importance what I also received…  1 Corinthians 15:3

The Campbellite church of my youth prided itself in not having a formal creed, expressed in their oft repeated slogan “No Creed but Christ!” Their boast was that in rejecting written confessions, they were championing the unique authority of the Scriptures. The truth is, however, that Campbellites most certainly DO have a distinctive content of belief (creed) that defines the perimeters of fellowship acceptance, affirming various distinguishing doctrines (e.g., Baptismal Remission).

As Grace Brethren, we affirm the Reformation’s battle cry of “Sola Scripture,” meaning that we uphold the unique infallible authority of the Bible—which is expressed in our historic motto “The Bible, the whole Bible, nothing but the Bible.” However, this is in no wise inconsistent with the fact that we have a formal written Statement of Faith (SOF) which we freely recognize as uninspired and capable of error, thus subject to correction and/or revision.

That said, our 12-point SOF (which every church member should be very familiar with) is important as an instrument of unity that defines the perimeters of what it means to be authentically Grace Brethren. While we believe in local church autonomy, we also affirm the importance of binding standards that give our collective fellowship real substance and meaning. It is important that we have a clear synopsis of what we as Grace Brethren believe the Bible to be teaching regarding essential doctrines, and then to pass these truths on to others. Indeed, it is suggested that certain Biblical passages are indicative of condensed “received” truth that was employed in catechistic instruction (e.g.,1 Corinthians 15:3-7). 

SOF’s are helpful and necessary, provided they do not usurp the Bible’s unique place of authority (as with the Roman Church).

Terry L. Reese