Holy Scripture (5)

A much fuller exposition of the Quaker doctrine of the Scriptures is given by Robert Barclay in his 1673 work A Catechism and Confession of Faith. Chapter II bears the title "Of the Rule and Guide of Christians and of the Scriptures." Barclay treats the distinction between the Old and New Covenants in a way that exalts their dis-unity over against unity. His emphasis is rather on the role of the Spirit as the guide and rule of Christians under the Gospel. He makes much of the teaching ministry of the Holy Spirit. Thus, in answer to the question "Is it an inward principle, then that is to be the guide and rule of Christians?" he quotes I John 2:27 and I Thessalonians 4:9 as affirmative answers. This naturally raises the question about the purpose of Scripture. To answer that he refers to Romans 15:4-it was given to comfort and strengthen us. It does not, however, lead us to the truth; this the work of the Holy Spirit.

We have previously mentioned Barclay's other writing An Apology for the True Christian Divinity. This work consists of 15 propositions and an exposition of each. Proposition III deals with the Quaker doctrine of Scripture, and refutes other options. Barclay describes Scripture as having proceeded from the Spirit of God and containing (1) "a faithful historical account of the actings of God's people in divers ages," (2) a prophetical account of things which have to come to pass and things yet to occur, and (3) "a full and ample account of all the chief principles of the doctrines of Christ." (Barclay, An Apology for the True Christian Divinity, 72-73). The Scriptures are not, however, "the adequate primary rule of faith and manners" (73). The Spirit is the principle rule; Scripture is secondary to the Spirit.