Subordinating Analogies and Examples to Biblical Authority
Subordinating Analogies and Examples to Biblical Authority
The concept of subordinating analogies and examples to biblical authority is rooted in the understanding that Scripture is the ultimate source of truth and guidance for Christian doctrine and practice. This principle is reflected in the way biblical authors and interpreters use cross-references to establish connections between different parts of Scripture [1, 2].
In the New Testament, the apostle Paul frequently cites the Old Testament to support his arguments and illustrate theological concepts. For example, in 1 Corinthians 3:20, Paul quotes Psalm 94:11 to demonstrate that the wisdom of this world is foolishness with God [3]. This use of cross-references and citations underscores the importance of grounding theological arguments in Scripture.
one commentary tradition tradition, as represented by Jamieson, Fausset & Brown, emphasizes the need to subject human analogies and examples to the authority of Scripture. In their commentary on Proverbs 19:12, they note that the passage provides a motive for submission to lawful authority, highlighting the importance of aligning human authority with divine authority [4].
In the context of Christology, the Protestant academic tradition, as represented by Tyndale House, emphasizes the significance of Jesus' ascension as an exaltation to a position of authority over all creation. This understanding is grounded in passages such as Acts 2:32-36 and Ephesians 1:19-23, which demonstrate Jesus' authority as Lord [5].
one commentary tradition tradition also highlights the importance of humility and obedience in relation to Christ's authority. In their commentary on Philippians 2:9, Jamieson, Fausset & Brown note that Christ's exaltation is a consequence of his self-humiliation and obedience, serving as a model for believers to follow [6].
The use of analogies and examples in biblical interpretation can be helpful in illustrating theological concepts, but it is essential to subordinate these to the authority of Scripture. As Jerome noted, "We are not to follow the errors of the fathers, but the authority of Scripture and of God" [7]. This principle is crucial in ensuring that theological arguments and interpretations remain grounded in the biblical text.
Sources
- OpenBible.info “Cross-reference: 2Chr.14.11 → Ps.37.5 (confidence: 10 votes)”
- OpenBible.info “Cross-reference: Ps.35.1 → 1Sam.24.15 (confidence: 12 votes)”
- 1 Corinthians (Baptist/Reformed) “John Gill on 1 Corinthians 3:20: And again,.... Not in the same place, nor in the same book, but in the Psalms, in Psa 94:11. This form of citing Scriptures answers to and moreover, used by the Jewish doctors when the matter does not so clearly appear from the first proof, and therefore they produce another (q): and so here the apostle, for the further confirmation and illustration of this point, that the wisdom of this world is foolishness with God, to the testimony of Eliphaz, adds this of David, the Lord knoweth the thoughts of the wise, that they are vain; in the Psalms it is, "the Lord ”
- Proverbs (Presbyterian) “Jamieson, Fausset & Brown on Proverbs 19:12: (Compare Pro 16:14-15; Pro 20:2). A motive to submission to lawful authority.”
- Luke (Protestant academic) “Tyndale House on Luke 24:51: 24:51 Cp. 2 Kgs 2:11. Jesus’ ascension was his exaltation to a position of authority over all creation (see Acts 2:32-36; 5:31; Eph 1:19-23; Phil 2:9-11; Heb 1:13).”
- Philippians (Presbyterian) “Jamieson, Fausset & Brown on Philippians 2:9: Wherefore--as the just consequence of His self-humiliation and obedience (Psa 8:5-6; Psa 110:1, Psa 110:7; Mat 28:18; Luk 24:26; Joh 5:27; Joh 10:17; Rom 14:9; Eph 1:20-22; Heb 2:9). An intimation, that if we would hereafter be exalted, we too must, after His example, now humble ourselves (Phi 2:3, Phi 2:5; Phi 3:21; Pe1 5:5-6). Christ emptied Christ; God exalted Christ as man to equality with God [BENGEL]. highly exalted--Greek, "super-eminently exalted" (Eph 4:10). given him--Greek, "bestowed on Him." a name--along with the corresponding re”
- Jeremiah (Presbyterian) “Jamieson, Fausset & Brown on Jeremiah 9:14: (Jer 7:24). Baalim--plural of Baal, to express his supposed manifold powers. fathers taught them-- (Gal 1:14; Pe1 1:18). We are not to follow the errors of the fathers, but the authority of Scripture and of God [JEROME].”