"Holy Scripture may be compared to the fiery cloud and pillar which in every age precedes the community and all its members as an invariably authentic direction to the knowledge of its Lord, to the gift which he gives and the accompanying task which he sets. It can and should be confessed always and everywhere and by all. It raises the claim to be heard, to be heard obediently and to be recognised as authoritative always and everywhere and by all. The biblical word is thus the concrete vinculum pacis of the church in every age and place. The community is always and everywhere summoned to regard its claim, to gather around its message, to pursue its investigation, exposition and application. We never do injury to a Christian or the community, nor are we in danger of leading a Christian astray, nor is it arbitrary but always and everywhere salutary and good, if we set ourselves and the community on the way which leads backwards or rather forwards to Holy Scripture. For since in Holy Scripture true words are always to be heard, this way is always the way backwards or rather forwards to Jesus Christ, to the one Word, to the reconciliation accomplished in him, to the one covenant between him and man, to the salvation effected and to be found in this covenant. However well or badly it may be followed, this way is always the good way, and to tread it is always and in all places commanded of the community and individual Christians, and is full of promise for them."
-CD IV/3, p130
No comments:
Post a Comment