Exposition and Theology of WCF 1.7: The Clarity of Scripture

Exposition

1. Not All Scripture Is Equally Clear:

   • WCF 1.7 begins by acknowledging that "all things in Scripture are not alike plain in themselves, nor alike clear unto all." This means that while some passages in the Bible may be difficult to understand (e.g., 2 Pet. 3:16), others are more straightforward. The Confession affirms the diversity of Scripture in terms of accessibility.

2. Clarity of Necessary Truths:

   • Despite the varying levels of difficulty, the Confession asserts that "those things which are necessary to be known, believed, and observed for salvation" are presented so clearly in Scripture that even the unlearned can understand them with ordinary means. This reflects the doctrine of perspicuity, which emphasizes that the Bible is sufficiently clear in its teaching on salvation (Ps. 19:7; 119:130; John 20:31).

3. Accessibility to All:

   • The Confession affirms that the Bible is not a document reserved for scholars or clergy but is accessible to all believers. By "ordinary means," it refers to the use of common tools such as reading, hearing sermons, and studying Scripture with guidance from the Church.

4. Role of Ordinary Means:

   • The phrase "due use of ordinary means" underscores the necessity of effort in understanding Scripture. This includes prayer, reliance on the Holy Spirit’s illumination, and faithful study within the community of believers (1 Cor. 2:12–14).

Theology of WCF 1.7

1. The Clarity of Essential Truths:

   • The Confession affirms that Scripture is clear where it matters most: on the doctrines necessary for salvation, such as the nature of God, human sin, the work of Christ, and the way of salvation through faith in Him. This clarity ensures that all believers can understand and respond to the gospel.

2. Unity of the Church:

   • The doctrine of clarity promotes unity within the Church, as it assures believers that God's Word is not esoteric or hidden but accessible. This stands against claims that only the clergy or special individuals can interpret Scripture authoritatively (Rom. 15:4; Eph. 3:4–6).

3. Rejection of Roman Catholic Claims:

   • The Confession counters Roman Catholic teaching that Scripture’s meaning is obscure and requires the magisterium to interpret it authoritatively. It insists that God’s Word is meant to be understood by all believers, not mediated through an elite class.

4. The Role of the Spirit and Effort:

   • While Scripture is clear, human understanding is limited by sin. Thus, the illuminating work of the Holy Spirit is vital for grasping spiritual truths. At the same time, believers must engage Scripture actively, using ordinary means like reading, listening, and study (Deut. 29:29; Ps. 119:105).

5. Encouragement for Personal Study:

   • The doctrine of clarity encourages personal engagement with Scripture, affirming that believers can and should study the Bible for themselves. This personal responsibility reinforces the Protestant emphasis on sola Scriptura, where Scripture alone is the final authority for faith and life.

Historical Debates Surrounding the Clarity of Scripture

The doctrine of Scripture’s clarity was central to the Reformation. Roman Catholic theologians argued that the Bible was obscure, necessitating the Church’s authoritative interpretation. The Reformers, including the Westminster divines, rejected this view, asserting that God intended His Word to be understood by all believers. They emphasized the role of Scripture as self-interpreting, with its clarity on essential matters made evident through the Spirit’s work.

Questions for Study Group

1. What does the doctrine of the clarity of Scripture mean, and why is it important for understanding salvation?
2. How does the acknowledgment that "all things in Scripture are not alike plain" encourage humility in studying the Bible?
3. Why is the concept of "ordinary means" significant for understanding Scripture? What practical steps can we take to use these means?
4. How does WCF 1.7 counter the idea that only trained clergy or scholars can interpret the Bible? What implications does this have for the Church today?
5. In what ways does the clarity of Scripture encourage personal study and engagement with the Word of God? How can this impact your spiritual growth?