Article 2 sets forth the two means by which we can know God: Creation and Scripture. Some have called this: “general revelation” and “special revelation”. Creation shows the power and Godhead of our God-so that all men are without excuse. Scripture sets forth both the glory of God and our salvation through Jesus Christ.
Article 3 treats of God’s “special” revelation in Scripture. Until Moses, this revelation came through tradition, dreams, visions, appearances, etc. Through the prophets and apostles, God caused His Word to be committed to writing: our Holy Scripture.
QUESTIONS TO BE ANSWERED:
1. Why is it important to know that we can find out about God?
2. Can revelation of God in creation lead one to salvation? Explain.
3. Why must the reprobate be without excuse?
4. What is man’s conscience? Can the conscience be our guide? Explain.
5. What does it mean when we confess that the Bible is “perspicuous? (see dictionary).
6. Comment on the statement: “The Bible is not a textbook on science.”
7. Do all men have an innate (see dictionary) knowledge of God?
8. (Art. 3) Comment on the statement: “The Word of God is contained in the Bible”.
9. What is “Higher Criticism”? Explain what is wrong with this.
10. Explain the following terms: (see dictionary and “Essentials”)
a. Inspiration
b. Infallibility
c. Verbal inspiration
d. Organic inspiration
e. Plenary inspiration
11. Find two proof-texts for inspiration.
II Tim 3:16; II Pet 1:20-21