Charles Payne's Writings on the Authority of Scripture: A Review

John Wesley, a renowned Christian theologian and evangelist, left behind a rich legacy of writings that continue to inspire and challenge believers today. One area of his work that deserves attention is his thoughts on the authority of scripture. In this article, we will explore some of the key passages in Wesley's writings that shed light on his views on scriptural inspiration.

The Biblical Must Be Given by Divine Inspiration

Wesley firmly believed that the Bible must be given by divine inspiration. He argued that it could not have been written by either good or bad men, as they would not produce a book that commands all duty and forbids all sin while condemning their souls to hell for eternity. This conclusion is based on his understanding of the nature of God's revelation in scripture.

The Bible: A Product of Divine Inspiration

Wesley proposed three options for the origin of the Bible: it must have been written by good men or angels, bad men or devils, or by God Himself. He then went on to present several short, clear, and strong arguments that prove the divine inspiration of the holy Scriptures.

The Four Grand Pillars of Christianity

According to Wesley, Christianity is built upon four grand pillars: the power, understanding, goodness, and holiness of God. These pillars are reflected in the Bible's accounts of miracles, prophecies, the doctrine, and the moral character of its writers. Each of these elements flows from divine inspiration and provides evidence of the Bible's authority.

The Four Arguments for Divine Inspiration

Wesley identified four powerful arguments that induce us to believe that the Bible must be from God: miracles, prophecies, the goodness of the doctrine, and the moral character of the writers. These arguments are still relevant today and provide a solid foundation for understanding the authority of scripture.

A Clear and Concise Proof of Divine Inspiration

In his writings, Wesley provided a clear and concise proof of the divine inspiration of the holy Scriptures. While there may be room for interpretation on some points, it is clear that he believed devotion to scriptural teachings was essential for keeping and renewing the Christian faith.

John Wesley's views on the authority of scripture are a testament to his commitment to the Christian faith and his desire to return to the original life, faith, and experience of Christianity. His writings continue to inspire and challenge believers today, providing a foundation for understanding the importance of scriptural authority in our lives.

Charles payne wes christian