Please follow the outline:
Students will complete 5 doctrinal statement papers covering the eight major areas of doctrine in the course. Each paper should be 3-4 pages, 1.5 spaced, size 12 font in either Calibri or Times New Roman, and should reflect the personal convictions of the student on the major topics in each area of doctrine. Students will support their positions with relevant Scripture as well as interaction with the major views.
Doctrinal Paper 1: Scripture
For your first doctrinal paper on Scripture, you’ll want to outline your personal convictions on key topics related to the doctrine of Scripture. Here’s a suggested structure to help you organize your thoughts and write a comprehensive doctrinal statement:
1. Introduction
• Begin with a brief introduction to the doctrine of Scripture. Explain why this doctrine is foundational to Christian faith and theology.
• State your thesis, summarizing your personal conviction regarding Scripture (e.g., “I believe that Scripture is the inspired, inerrant Word of God, authoritative for faith and practice…”).
2. The Inspiration of Scripture
• Define what you believe about the inspiration of Scripture. Is it verbally inspired, plenary (every part), or another form of inspiration?
• Reference key Scriptures that support your position (e.g., 2 Timothy 3:16, 2 Peter 1:21).
• Interact with other views (e.g., limited inspiration theory, neo-orthodox view) and explain why you agree or disagree.
3. The Inerrancy of Scripture
• Clarify your stance on inerrancy: Do you believe the Bible is without error in all it affirms (e.g., historical, scientific, moral)?
• Support your view with scriiptural evidence and theological reasoning.
• Address major counterarguments (e.g., the concept of “limited inerrancy”) and provide a response.
4. The Authority of Scripture
• Discuss the authority of Scripture in matters of faith, conduct, and doctrine.
• Highlight biblical passages that emphasize the authority of God’s Word (e.g., Psalm 119, Matthew 5:18).
• Compare with other perspectives that might limit biblical authority (e.g., cultural relativism, the authority of tradition over Scripture).
5. The Clarity and Sufficiency of Scripture
• Express your belief about the clarity (perspicuity) of Scripture: Can all essential truths be understood by ordinary believers?
• Argue for the sufficiency of Scripture: Is Scripture alone enough for knowledge of salvation and godly living? What does 2 Timothy 3:15-17 say about this?
• Evaluate alternative positions (e.g., the need for additional revelation or tradition).
6. Application to the Christian Life
• Discuss how your views on Scripture impact your daily walk with God, your study of the Bible, and your engagement with the world.
• Include personal reflections on how your view of Scripture has shaped your faith journey.
7. Conclusion
• Summarize your key points.
• Reaffirm your thesis and personal conviction.
• Encourage readers to consider their own beliefs about Scripture in light of its importance.
8. Bibliography
• Include all the Scripture references used and any other theological texts or resources cited in your paper.
Tips:
• Ensure your paper is well-organized, clear, and concise, staying within the 3-4 page limit.
• Be sure to integrate Scripture thoroughly to support your points.
• Interact with major theological views to demonstrate critical thinking and engagement with broader doctrinal discussions.
This structure should help you develop a strong doctrinal statement on Scripture that reflects your convictions and is wel
l-supported biblically and