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Balancing Christ's Example with Scripture as Primary Authority

The relationship between Christ's example and the authority of Scripture is a foundational aspect of Christian theology, with various traditions emphasizing different facets of this dynamic. Scripture is consistently presented as divinely inspired and authoritative, while Christ is understood as both divine and the ultimate embodiment of God's will and character [1, 2, 5].

The Bible itself asserts its own divine origin, stating that it is "given by inspiration of God" (2 Timothy 3:16) and "given by inspiration of the Holy Spirit" (Acts 1:16; 2 Peter 1:21) [2]. Christ himself sanctioned the Scriptures by appealing to them and teaching from them (Matthew 4:4; Mark 12:10; Luke 24:27; John 7:42) [2]. This establishes Scripture as the "Word of God" and the "Word of Christ" [2]. For many traditions, this divine inspiration means that Scripture is the primary and infallible rule for faith and life. Matthew Henry, a Nonconformist commentator, describes religion as a "practical religion, that tends to the right ordering of the conversation," designed to "inform our judgments, but to reform our hearts and lives" [11]. The Old Princeton theologian Charles Hodge emphasizes that Scripture is the "only trustworthy guide in matters of religious doctrine" [10].

Christ's example, on the other hand, is presented as the perfect human life, a model for believers to emulate. Hebrews 12:2 exhorts believers to "fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith" [7]. Christ demonstrated qualities such as early rising for devotion (Mark 1:35; Luke 21:38; John 8:2) [6] and acted as a prophet, priest, and king [1, 3]. His life is seen as the embodiment of God's instruction and wisdom [13]. The incarnation of Christ is a profound mystery to be adored, not merely analyzed [15].

The tension, or rather the balance, arises in understanding how these two authorities—the written Word and the living Word—interact.

Christ as the Embodiment of Scripture One perspective views Christ as the ultimate fulfillment and living embodiment of the Scriptures. The Old Testament, for instance, contains prophecies about Christ's kingly office, which he fulfills as the "sovereign Head over his Church and over all things to his Church" [3]. Isaiah's prophecy of a kingdom established with "judgment and with righteousness" is seen by Calvin as a description of Christ's kingdom, which serves as "the model of the best kind of government" [18]. In this view, Christ's life and teachings do not contradict Scripture but rather illuminate and complete it. John Gill, a Baptist/Reformed commentator, refers to the Gospel as the "doctrine of Christ" because Christ is its author, recipient from the Father, preacher, and its very substance [16].

The Role of Christ's Divinity and Humanity Christ's dual nature—fully God and fully human—is crucial to understanding his authority. As God, he is identified with Jehovah, the Creator, and the First and the Last [1, 5]. As the Son of God, he is one with the Father [1]. This divine nature underpins his authority as the source of truth. As a human, he provides a relatable example. Aquinas, in his Summa Theologica, discusses Christ's humanity as having the power of "influence," suggesting that his human actions and life have a profound effect on believers [17]. The Methodist commentator Adam Clarke notes that "God was in Christ," meaning Christ is the Messiah, the Anointed One, who fulfills the roles of prophet, priest, and king for humanity [14].

Union with Christ and Obedience to His Word The concept of "union with Christ" is central to how believers relate to both his example and his authoritative word. This union is described as Christ being in believers and believers being in Christ, maintained by faith, abiding in him, and his word abiding in them [4]. This implies that following Christ's example is not merely imitation but a result of an internal spiritual transformation. Obedience to Christ is a key aspect of this union (1 John 3:24) [4]. Therefore, Christ's example is not a separate authority but an integral part of the divine revelation found in Scripture, which guides believers in their walk with God.

The Practical Application of Christ's Example While Scripture provides explicit commands and doctrines, Christ's life offers a living illustration of how to apply these principles. For instance, Mary's response to the angelic announcement, "Behold the handmaid of the Lord," is seen by Adam Clarke as an act of faith and obedience, leading to the conception of Jesus [12]. This demonstrates how a human life, lived in submission to God's word, can align with divine purposes. The Magnificat, Mary's song of praise, highlights God's care for the oppressed and the reversal of fortunes, a theme that resonates throughout Luke's Gospel and exemplifies Christ's own ministry [8].

Avoiding False Dichotomies The challenge lies in avoiding a false dichotomy between Christ's example and scriptural authority. The two are not in competition but are mutually reinforcing. Christ's example is understood through the lens of Scripture, and Scripture's teachings are illuminated by Christ's life. The apostle Paul, for instance, chose to preach "Christ crucified" not with worldly wisdom but with heavenly wisdom, emphasizing the divine power inherent in the message of Christ [9]. This suggests that the message about Christ, as contained in Scripture, is paramount.

Sources

  1. Torrey's Topical Textbook “Torrey's Topical Textbook: Excellency and Glory of Christ, The — As God -- Joh 1:1-5; Php 2:6,9,10. As the Son of God -- Mt 3:17; Heb 1:6,8. As one with the Father -- Joh 10:30,38. As the First-born -- Col 1:15,18. As the First-begotten -- Heb 1:6. As Lord of lords, &c -- Re 17:14. As the image of God -- Col 1:15; Heb 1:3. As creator -- Joh 1:3; Col 1:16; Heb 1:2. As the Blessed of God -- Ps 45:2. As Mediator -- 1Ti 2:5; Heb 8:6. As Prophet -- De 18:15,16; Ac 3:22. As Priest -- Ps 110:4; Heb 4:15. As King -- Isa 6:1-5; Joh 12:41. As Judge -- Mt 16:27; 25:31,33. As Shepherd -- Isa 40:10,11; Joh”
  2. Torrey's Topical Textbook “Torrey's Topical Textbook: Scriptures, The — Given by inspiration of God -- 2Ti 3:16. Given by inspiration of the Holy Spirit -- Ac 1:16; Heb 3:7; 2Pe 1:21. Christ sanctioned, by appealing to them -- Mt 4:4; Mr 12:10; Joh 7:42. Christ taught out of -- Lu 24:27. Are called the Word. -- Jas 1:21-23; 1Pe 2:2. Word of God. -- Lu 11:28; Heb 4:12. Word of Christ. -- Col 3:16. Word of truth. -- Jas 1:18. Holy Scriptures. -- Ro 1:2; 2Ti 3:15. Scripture of truth. -- Da 10:21. Book. -- Ps 40:7; Re 22:19. Book of the Lord. -- Isa 34:16. Book of the law. -- Ne 8:3; Ga 3:10. Law of the Lord. -- Ps 1:2; Isa”
  3. Easton's Bible Dictionary “Easton's Bible Dictionary: Kingly office of Christ — One of the three special relations in which Christ stands to his people. Christ's office as mediator comprehends three different functions, viz., those of a prophet, priest, and king. These are not three distinct offices, but three functions of the one office of mediator. Christ is King and sovereign Head over his Church and over all things to his Church (Eph. 1:22; 4:15; Col. 1:18; 2:19). He executes this mediatorial kingship in his Church, and over his Church, and over all things in behalf of his Church. This royalty differs from that whic”
  4. Torrey's Topical Textbook “Torrey's Topical Textbook: Union With Christ — As Head of the Church -- Eph 1:22,23; 4:15,16; Col 1:18. Christ prayed that all saints might have -- Joh 17:21,23. Described as Christ being in us. -- Eph 3:17; Col 1:27. Our being in Christ. -- 2Co 12:2; 1Jo 5:20. Includes union with the Father -- Joh 17:21; 1Jo 2:24. Is of God -- 1Co 1:30. Maintained by Faith. -- Ga 2:20; Eph 3:17. Abiding in him. -- Joh 15:4,7. His word abiding in us. -- Joh 15:7; 1Jo 2:24; 2Jo 1:9. Feeding on him. -- Joh 6:56. Obeying him. -- 1Jo 3:24. The Holy Spirit witnesses -- 1Jo 3:24. The gift of the Holy Spirit is an ev”
  5. Torrey's Topical Textbook “Torrey's Topical Textbook: Christ is God — As Jehovah -- Isa 40:3; Mt 3:3. As Jehovah of glory -- Ps 24:7,10; 1Co 2:8; Jas 2:1. As Jehovah, our RIGHTEOUSNESS -- Jer 23:5,6; 1Co 1:30. As Jehovah, above all -- Ps 97:9; Joh 3:31. As Jehovah, the First and the Last -- Isa 44:6; Re 1:17; Isa 48:12-16; Re 22:13. As Jehovah's Fellow and Equal -- Zec 13:7; Php 2:6. As Jehovah of Hosts -- Isa 6:1-3; Joh 12:41; Isa 8:13,14; 1Pe 2:8. As Jehovah, the Shepherd -- Isa 40:11; Heb 13:20. As Jehovah, for whose glory all things were created -- Pr 16:4; Col 1:16. As Jehovah, the Messenger of the covenant -- Mal ”
  6. Torrey's Topical Textbook “Torrey's Topical Textbook: Early Rising — Christ set an example of -- Mr 1:35; Lu 21:38; Joh 8:2. Requisite for Devotion. -- Ps 5:3; 59:16; 63:1; 88:13; Isa 26:9. Executing God's commands. -- Ge 22:3. Discharge of daily duties. -- Pr 31:15. Neglect of, leads to poverty -- Pr 6:9-11. Practised by the wicked, for Deceit. -- Pr 27:14. Executing plans of evil. -- Mic 2:1. Illustrates spiritual diligence -- Ro 13:11,12. Exemplified Abraham. -- Ge 19:27. Isaac, &c. -- Ge 26:31. Jacob. -- Ge 28:18. Joshua &c. -- Jos 3:1. Gideon. -- Jdj 6:38. Samuel. -- 1Sa 15:12. David. -- 1Sa 17:20. Mary, &c. -- Mr ”
  7. Hebrews “Hebrews 12:2 (BSB) — Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before Him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.”
  8. Luke (Protestant academic) “Tyndale House on Luke 1:46: 1:46-55 Mary’s song is the first of three songs of praise in the birth narrative. It is called the Magnificat (“magnifies”), from the first word in the Latin translation. The song has many parallels to Hannah’s prayer in 1 Sam 2:1-10. The fact that God cares for the oppressed and reverses their fortunes is a common theme throughout Luke’s Gospel. The coming of God’s Kingdom brings salvation to rejected and outcast people.”
  9. 1 Corinthians (Presbyterian) “Jamieson, Fausset & Brown on 1 Corinthians 2 (introduction): PAUL'S SUBJECT OF PREACHING, CHRIST CRUCIFIED, NOT IN WORLDLY, BUT IN HEAVENLY, WISDOM AMONG THE PERFECT. (1Co. 2:1-16) And I--"So I" [CONYBEARE] as one of the "foolish, weak, and despised" instruments employed by God (Co1 1:27-28); "glorying in the Lord," not in man's wisdom (Co1 1:31). Compare Co1 1:23, "We." when I came-- (Act 18:1, &c.). Paul might, had he pleased, have used an ornate style, having studied secular learning at Tarsus of Cilicia, which STRABO preferred as a school of learning to Athens or Alexandria; here, doubt”
  10. CCEL (Reformed (Old Princeton)) “Charles Hodge, Systematic Theology, Vol. 3, section 26: to him; but also that his guilt should be removed, his sins expiated, and justice satisfied, as the preliminary condition of his enjoying this new life, and being restored to the favour of God. And secondly, that such is the constant representation of Scripture, our only trustworthy guide in matters of religious doctrine. The Bible makes quite as prominent what Christ does for us, as what He does in us. It says as much of his objective, expiatory work, as of the communication of a higher spiritual life to believers. It is only by ignoring”
  11. Romans (Nonconformist/Puritan) “Matthew Henry on Romans 12 (introduction): The apostle, having at large cleared and confirmed the prime fundamental doctrines of Christianity, comes in the next place to press the principal duties. We mistake our religion if we look upon it only as a system of notions and a guide to speculation. No, it is a practical religion, that tends to the right ordering of the conversation. It is designed not only to inform our judgments, but to reform our hearts and lives. From the method of the apostle's writing in this, as in some other of the epistles (as from the management of the principal minister”
  12. Luke (Methodist/Wesleyan) “Adam Clarke on Luke 1:38: Behold the handmaid of the Lord - I fully credit what thou sayest, and am perfectly ready to obey thy commands, and to accomplish all the purposes of thy grace concerning me. It appears that at the instant of this act of faith, and purposed obedience, the conception of the immaculate humanity of Jesus took place; and it was Done unto her according to his word. See Luk 1:35.”
  13. Psalms (Protestant academic) “Tyndale House on Psalms 1:1: Pss 1–8 Psalms 1 and 8 form an inclusio (set of literary bookends) that describes what God expects of the ideal person (cp. Pss 19; 33; 104; 145), contrasts the godly person with the wicked, and extols the godly person’s dignity. Jesus the Messiah (Ps 2)—the sovereign Lord (Heb 2:6-8; see 1 Cor 15:27) and perfection of humanity—embodies this ideal. Pss 1–2 The first two psalms are an introduction to the entire Psalter. Psalm 1 introduces the Lord’s instruction in wisdom, while Ps 2 introduces God’s rule over a rebellious, sinful world. Together, these psalms invite”
  14. 2 Corinthians (Methodist/Wesleyan) “Adam Clarke on 2 Corinthians 5:19: That God was in Christ - This is the doctrine which this ministry of reconciliation holds out, and the doctrine which it uses to bring about the reconciliation itself. God was in Christ: 1. Christ is the same as Messiah, the Anointed One, who was to be prophet, priest, and king, to the human race; not to the Jews only, but also to the Gentiles. There had been prophets, priests, and kings, among the Jews and their ancestors; and some who had been priest and prophet, king and priest, and king and prophet; but none have ever sustained in his own person the three”
  15. Matthew (Nonconformist/Puritan) “Matthew Henry on Matthew 1:18: The mystery of Christ's incarnation is to be adored, not pried into. If we know not the way of the Spirit in the formation of common persons, nor how the bones are formed in the womb of any one that is with child (Ecc 11:5), much less do we know how the blessed Jesus was formed in the womb of the blessed virgin. When David admires how he himself was made in secret, and curiously wrought (Psa 139:13-16), perhaps he speaks in the spirit of Christ's incarnation. Some circumstances attending the birth of Christ we find here which are not in Luke, though it is more la”
  16. Hebrews (Baptist/Reformed) “John Gill on Hebrews 6:1: Therefore leaving the principles of the doctrine of Christ,.... The Gospel is the doctrine of Christ, and is so called, because Christ, as God, is the author of it; as Mediator, he received it from his Father; as man, he was the preacher of it; and he is also the sum and substance of it: the principles of this doctrine are either the easier parts of the Gospel, called milk in the latter part of the preceding chapter; which are not to be left with dislike and contempt, nor so as to be forgotten, nor so as not to be recurred to at proper times; but so as not to abide in”
  17. theology (Catholic (Scholastic)) “Aquinas, Summa Theologica, Third Part (Tertia Pars), Of the Grace of Christ as He Is the Head of the Church, Art. 2: Article: Whether Christ is the Head of men as to their bodies or only as to their souls? I answer that, The human body has a natural relation to the rational soul, which is its proper form and motor. Inasmuch as the soul is its form, it receives from the soul life and the other properties which belong specifically to man; but inasmuch as the soul is its motor, the body serves the soul instrumentally. Therefore we must hold that the manhood of Christ had the power of "influence,"”
  18. CCEL (Reformed) “Calvin, Commentary on Isaiah, Vol. 1, section 15.24: his kingdom with judgment and with righteousness. These are the means by which earthly governments prosper and take deep roots; but those which are only administered by fear and violence cannot be lasting. Since, therefore, justice is the best guardian of kingdoms and governments, and since the happiness of the whole of the people depends on it, by this clause Isaiah shows that the kingdom of Christ will be the model of the best kind of government. Judgment and righteousness do not here relate to outward affairs of state. We must observe the”
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