Survey Studies in Reformed Theology
Syllabus for the Genevan Institute for Reformed Studies
by Bob Burridge ©1996, 2006, 2010, 2016
Unit One: Prolegomena
by Pastor Bob Burridge ©1996, 2006, 2010, 2016
Revelation, Scripture, its Use and Interpretation
Westminster Confession of Faith chapter 1
The only authoritative standard for the interpretation of Scripture is the Scripture itself. All else lacks certainty. If we are to do theology biblically, then we must base our work on data directly derived from the canonical books of the Bible alone. This is what the Latin term “Scriptura Scripturae interpres” means. Literally it is “Scripture interprets Scripture.”
The articles in this study help lay this foundation. I strongly recommend that you study the topics in the order in which they are listed. The later topics assume the earlier ones. The technical name for this field of study is “Prolegomena”. It means “before study” since we must know how to determine the mind of God before we do any other study about him.
This unit was updated in 2016.
1. Knowing Truth the possibility of knowledge, systematic truth, the value of written confessions – (Video)
2. Revelation general and special revelation – (Video)
3. The Canon of Scripture Which books belong in the Bible? – (Video)
4. The Inspiration of Scripture organic, verbal, and plenary – (Video)
5. The Preservation of the text of Scripture confidence in the biblical text, some problem texts – (Video)
6. The Translation of Scripture the value and use of Bible translations – (Video)
7. The Interpretation of Scripture apologetics, orthotomic study, Spirit illumination – (Video)
Reading Assignments
Bob Burridge: This Syllabus: Prolegomena
A. A. Hodge: Commentary on the Confession of Faith: Introduction, ch 1
C. Hodge: Systematic Theology (Vol 1, Introduction)
W. G. T. Shedd: Dogmatic Theology (Vol 1 Introduction, Bibliology)
L. Berkhof: Principles of Biblical Interpretation
Westminster Faculty: The Infallible Word (a symposium)
Berkeley Mikelsen: Interpreting the Bible (pages 99-176)
Cornelius Vantil: The Defense of the Faith
O. Palmer Robertson: The Christ of the Covenants