FAP Indoctrination Series #3: The Authority of Scripture Alone (Sola Scriptura)

Lesson Objective

To establish that the Bible alone is the highest and final authority in all matters of faith and practice, rejecting any claim of modern prophets or denominational authority (such as Ellen G. White or SDA Church leadership) equal to or above Scripture.

Opening Prayer (5 minutes)

The leader or volunteer prays for discernment and courage to submit to God’s Word alone.

I. What Is Sola Scriptura? (10 min)

Definition:

Sola Scriptura (Latin: “Scripture Alone”) means the Bible is the supreme authority for the Christian faith, above church councils, traditions, or human opinions.

Key Verses:

"All Scripture is inspired by God and is profitable for teaching, for rebuking, for correcting, for training in righteousness, so that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work." 2 Timothy 3:16-17 (CSB)

"Your word is a lamp for my feet and a light on my path." Psalms 119:105 (CSB)

"The people here were of more noble character than those in Thessalonica, since they received the word with eagerness and examined the Scriptures daily to see if these things were so." Acts 17:11 (CSB)

II. Ellen G. White’s Claim to Authority (10 min)

SDA Position:

SDAs officially state Ellen White’s writings are an inspired, authoritative source of truth for the church.

Key Statements:

“Her writings are a continuing and authoritative source of truth which provide for the church comfort, guidance, instruction, and correction…” (27 Fundamental Beliefs, #17)

Problem:

Ellen White’s conflicting statements with Scripture on doctrines like Investigative Judgment, Sabbath-keeping for salvation, and final atonement.

III. The Dangers of Adding to God’s Word (15 min)

Key Verses:

"You must not add anything to what I command you or take anything away from it, so that you may keep the commands of the LORD your God I am giving you." Deuteronomy 4:2 (CSB)

"I testify to everyone who hears the words of the prophecy of this book: If anyone adds to them, God will add to him the plagues that are written in this book. And if anyone takes away from the words of the book of this prophecy, God will take away his share of the tree of life and the holy city, which are written about in this book." Revelation 22:18-1 (CSB)

Illustration:

Imagine a contract signed by the King. If anyone adds a new rule or changes its terms, it invalidates the agreement.

Lesson: God’s Word is a finished, complete revelation.

Note: Creeds and confessions are subordinate summaries of Scripture, unlike Ellen White’s claimed revelations.

IV. Decision Time: Whose Word Will You Trust? (5 min)

Ask:

• Will you trust Scripture alone?

• Or continue relying on extra-biblical revelations?

Closing Prayer (5 minutes)

Thank God for preserving His Word and for giving the Holy Spirit to lead us into truth.

For more inquiries, contact us:

Email: formeradventist.ph@gmail.com

Website: formeradventistph.blogspot.com

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Phone: 09695143944