Confessional Bibliology Blog
Presuppositional Analysis of The King James Only Controversy by James R. White
Presuppositional Analysis of The King James Only Controversy by James R. White Purpose and Scope of Analysis: This presuppositional analysis critically evaluates The King James Only Controversy by James R. White, focusing on the author’s
Which Textus Receptus? A Response to Mark Ward’s Critique of Confessional Bibliology
Introduction The debate over the authenticity and authority of the Textus Receptus (TR) is not new, yet it remains a focal point of discussion within textual criticism and evangelical circles. Mark Ward’s Which Textus Receptus?
Book Review: The King James Only Controversy by James R. White
1. Introduction: Title: The King James Only Controversy: Can You Trust Modern Translations? Author: James R. White Topic: An alleged critique of the King James Only (KJVO) movement, aimed at questioning the validity of limiting
Debate Over the Preservation and Authority of Scripture. Part 5
8. Conclusion: Reaffirming Owen’s Legacy and the Doctrine of Preservation John Owen’s writings on the authority, inspiration, and preservation of Scripture provide a robust theological framework that stands in sharp contrast to Enlightenment-influenced approaches to
Debate Over the Preservation and Authority of Scripture. Part 4
6. Brash’s Reinterpretation in Light of Enlightenment Assumptions In his work, Richard Fraser Brash attempts to reframe John Owen’s views on Scriptural preservation within the broader context of Enlightenment-era developments in textual criticism. Brash argues
The Erosion of Authority
How Enlightenment Textual Criticism Undermined the Word and Weakened the Western Church Introduction In the centuries following the Reformation, the Word of God held a place of supreme authority in the life of the church.
Debate Over the Preservation and Authority of Scripture. Part 3
4. Owen’s Response to Walton’s Emphasis on Variants One of the most significant challenges to John Owen’s doctrine of Scriptural preservation came from Brian Walton’s Biblia Polyglotta. Walton’s work, published in the mid-seventeenth century, included
The Importance of the Word of God Concept
Understanding the Vox Dei in Lutheran Orthodoxy The concept of the Word of God occupies a central place in Christian theology, particularly within the Lutheran tradition. For Lutherans, the Word of God—or vox Dei (Latin
Debate Over the Preservation and Authority of Scripture. Part 2
2. Providential Preservation vs. Human Reconstruction John Owen’s doctrine of providential preservation stands in stark contrast to Enlightenment methodologies that rely on human efforts to reconstruct an "original" text. For Owen, the integrity and authority
Psalm 12:6-7 and Providential Preservation
An Analysis of the Foundation for Textual Preservation in Scripture Introduction Psalm 12:6-7 has become central in discussions on the doctrine of providential preservation, see Mark Ward's recent video in which he fumbles the ball,
The Role of Reason in Reformed Theology
Examining the Relationship Between Scripture and Human Reason The Lutheran tradition, born out of the Reformation, took a definitive stance on the place of Scripture and reason in theology. As Martin Luther and subsequent
Defining the King James Only Movement: Misrepresentations and Oversimplifications
Introduction In The King James Only Controversy, James R. White attempts to provide a comprehensive critique of what he terms the “King James Only” (KJVO) movement. White’s categorization of the KJV Only movement is segmented
The Foundational Role of Revelational Epistemology in the Doctrine of Preservation
The doctrine of the preservation of Scripture is a central pillar in Confessional Bibliology. This doctrine asserts that God, through His providence, has not only inspired the original manuscripts but also preserved His words across
Debate Over the Preservation and Authority of Scripture. Part 1
Introduction and Overview The Debate Over the Preservation and Authority of Scripture: John Owen, Enlightenment Critiques, and Modern Reinterpretations In the ongoing conversation about the preservation and authority of Scripture, few figures are as pivotal
How Modern Translations Undermine Christ’s Deity
A Confessional Analysis of Key Texts Introduction: The doctrine of Christ’s deity lies at the heart of orthodox Christian theology, encapsulating the belief that Christ is both fully divine and co-eternal with the Father. Any
A Critical Examination of Dr. Mark Ward’s Presuppositional Flaws in the KJV Readability Debate
The debate between Dr. Dan Haifley and Dr. Mark Ward on the readability of the King James Version (KJV) of the Bible reveals fundamental differences in their approach to the translation of Scripture. Mark Ward’s
Erasmus’ Greek New Testament & Back Translation
In refuting Jeffrey Stivason’s article Erasmus & the Final Verses of Revelation, it is crucial to address not only the historical inaccuracies but also the selective presentation of evidence that undergirds the popular claim of
The Linguistic Foundation of Accessibility
Anglo-Saxon Versus Latinized Words in Bible Translations The English language is a rich tapestry, woven from various linguistic influences over centuries. Of these, two primary strands dominate: Anglo-Saxon (Old English) and Latin-based vocabulary. This dichotomy
Revelational Epistemology and the Necessity of a Preserved Scripture
John 17:17 Sanctify them through thy truth: thy word is truth. The idea of revelational epistemology holds that human knowledge of truth must ultimately rest on a source that is transcendent, yet simultaneously accessible to
Verbal and Plenary Inspiration Explained
How Reformed Theologians Understood Inspiration The 17th century was a defining era for Lutheran Orthodoxy, a period marked by rigorous theological discourse and defense of key doctrines inherited from the Reformation. Among these, the doctrine
Erasmus and Beza vs Krans
Reformers in a Pre-Enlightenment Era and the Providential Preservation of Scripture In this analysis, we will explore the historical and theological contexts that shaped the textual work of Desiderius Erasmus and Theodorus Beza, the
Romans 4:25 and the Hermeneutics of Justification
A Critical Evaluation of Translational Differences The theological implications of Romans 4:25 are of critical importance to the study of soteriology and the doctrine of justification. This verse, used by the Apostle Paul to articulate
The Meaning and Significance of Sola Scriptura
Why This Principle Was Foundational to Reformed Theology When discussing the foundational principles of the Protestant Reformation, sola scriptura (Latin for “Scripture alone”) stands as a key doctrine. It formed the bedrock of Lutheran
Richard Simon’s Critical History of the New Testament
A Deliberate Attack on Sola Scriptura Richard Simon, a 17th-century Catholic priest, published A Critical History of the Text of the New Testament in 1689. This work is often heralded as pioneering in the field
Revelational Epistemology and the Preservation of Scripture
Affirming the Confessional View Introduction: The Issue of Scriptural Foundation The debate over the preservation of Scripture centers on a pivotal question: on what authority do we rest our confidence that the Scriptures we
How Enlightenment Philosophy Distorts Biblical Preservation
A Response to Stephen Steele’s Modern Interpretation The ongoing debate about the preservation and authority of the biblical text centers around a critical question: what did the Reformers and the Westminster Divines believe regarding the
Confessional Bibliology vs. KJV-Onlyism
A Response to Mark Ward’s Mischaracterization In his recent critique, “Breaking My Two-Year Silence on Confessional Bibliology,” Mark Ward addresses what he perceives as the Confessional Bibliology movement’s similarities to KJV-Onlyism. Despite acknowledging key theological
Exploring 17th-Century Lutheran Views on Scripture
When we look back at the 17th century, especially within the Lutheran Church, we're peering into a fascinating time often dubbed the era of Lutheran Orthodoxy or Lutheran Scholasticism. Imagine a period where theologians were
The Place of the King James Bible in Today’s Church
The Place of the King James Bible in Today’s Church: A Case for Retention and Study References: TBS Word List Mark Ward's article where William Sandell Refutes his thesis in the comments: https://byfaithweunderstand.com/ The
Matthew 17:21
Verse: Matthew 17.21 Textus Receptus/Byzantine Text: Howbeit this kind goeth not out but by prayer and fasting. (Matthew 17:21 Authorised Version) Nestle Aland 27: [Omit] Manuscript/Patristic Support:
No concord between Christ & textual atheists
"It is much the fashion to abuse the great men of the Reformation age, for what is called their intolerance and bitterness towards adversaries. Our moderns affect a great advance upon their manners, and are
Textual Tuesday – Mt 9:13b
Verse: Matthew 9.13b Textus Receptus/Byzantine Text: I am not come to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance. (Matthew 9:13 KJV) Nestle Aland 27: I have not come to call the righteous,
1 John 5:7 Vindicated Serm1.Pt1
SERMON I. 1 JOHN. V. 7. For there are Three that bear Record in Heaven, the FATHER, the WORD, and the Holy Ghost; and these Three are One. 171 KNOW not a Passage
Textual Tuesday – Mt 5:44
Verse: Matthew 5.44 Textus Receptus/Byzantine Text: But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them
Textual Tuesday – Matthew 6:13
Verse: Last half of Matthew 6.13 Textus Receptus/Byzantine Text: For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever. Amen. (Mat 6:13 KJV) Nestle Aland 27: [Omit] Manuscript/Patristic Support:
RESTORATIONIST TEXTUAL CRITICISM’S VERIFICATION PROBLEM
IGNORING THE ISSUE With every textual claim put forth by advocates of RTC, whether Critical Text, Majority Text, or something else, they all suffer from the same flaw: an inability to verify their textual choices.
Textual Tuesday – Matthew 5:44
Verse: Matthew 5.44 Textus Receptus/Byzantine Text: But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them
Textual Tuesday – Matthew 5:22
Verse: Matthew 5.22 Textus Receptus/Byzantine Text: But I say unto you, That whosoever is angry with his brother without a cause shall be in danger of the judgment… (Matthew 5:22 Authorised Version) Nestle
The Blinde Guide by William Jenkyn – Chap 1-Part 1
THE Blinde-Guide GUIDED. Chapter 1. Directed more particularly to the reverend and learned subscribers of the late testimony to the truth with-in the Province of London. Shewing the senseless railings, the gross untruths, the shameless boastings; expressed
Textual Tuesday – Matthew 6:1
Verse: Matthew 6.1 Textus Receptus/Byzantine Text: Take heed that ye do not your alms before men, to be seen of them… (Mat 6:1 KJV) Nestle Aland 27: "Beware of practicing your righteousness
The Blinde Guide by William Jenkyn Introduction
THE Blinde Guide, or the Doting Doctor. Composed by way of Reply to a late tediously trifling Pamphlet, Entitled, The Youngling Elder, &c. written by John Goodwin, and containing little or nothing in it, but what plainly speaketh
Confessional Bibliology Podcast Introduction
https://www.buzzsprout.com/1782594/8530000-confessional-bibliology-podcast-introduction.mp3?download=true
Theodore Letis on Richard Simon
The Age of Reason was generally hostile to how the Reformation determined the text—and soon Rome perceived this apparent weakness in the Protestant armor, as well. In 1689, a Roman Catholic priest named Richard Simon
Preserved Purity: An Introduction
In Garnet H. Milne's book Has the Bible Been Kept Pure?, he quotes extensively from the writings of the Reformers. However, if you're like me, you want to read the entire passage or even work
Learning Greek & Latin
Pastor Pooyan Mehrshahi asked me to put together a post with resources to help seminary students learn Greek. So here is what I used and am using. When it comes to learning Greek, one needs
The Strange Case of the Inconsistent Mr. White
In a previous post, James White denies the existence of Scripture, I pointed out that Mr. White's denial of an objective, universal, invariant standard was the logical equivalent of one denying the existence of Scripture.
Argument Analysis Introduction
This begins a series based in part off of Dr. Greg L. Bahnsen's series entitled Practical Apologetics. This series provides perhaps the best model for taking any argument and evaluating it Biblically. Above you can
James White denies the existence of Scripture
During the second debate between Mr. White and Dr. Riddle, there was a question and answer section at the end for the audience. I asked a question directed at him, which was the following: "What
Why this isn’t a textual issue
I've been away from this issue for a while to take a much needed break from the nonsense RTC Advocates engage in. And I have focused most of my time upon reading the works of
Confessional Bibliology Podcast Episode 001
Theodore Letis Resources: https://confessionalbibliology.com/the-resources/theodore-letis-resources/ Kept Pure in All Ages in March: https://www.fivesolas.church/conference-kept-pure-in-all-ages Dr. Jeff Riddle vs James R. White debate: Part 1 & Part 2 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KswCzsdvXxU&t=148s
Thomas Manton’s Preface to James
OR, A PREFACE WHEREIN, BESIDES AN EXPLICATION OF THE TITLE, SEVERAL NECESSARY PRELIMINARY QUESTIONS ARE HANDLED AND DISCUSSED. I INTEND, by the assistance of God’s Holy Spirit, in the weekly returns of this lecture, to
Thomas Manton on Preservation
SERMON XXIX Sanctify them through thy truth: thy word is truth.—JOHN 17:17. SECONDLY, The church hath owned the word. You see how God hath owned it; he saith it is my word. Let us see
Why New Testament Textual Criticism Can Never Arrive at Truth
RTC AS A THOUGHT EXPERIMENT So let’s pretend we have completed such an experiment. We begin our experiment by printing off a copy of the book of Matthew. This printed copy (autograph)
Captain Deflector vs The Glaring Inconsistency
In a recent comment dealing with this post by Taylor DeSoto’s There is No Modern Doctrine of PreservationThere is No Modern Doctrine of Preservation James White has decided he’s going to “examine” Taylor’s post. Here’s the
Captain Deflector vs The Reformation
JAMES WHITE’S LATEST LYING ESCAPADES The article in question: https://pulpitandpen.org/2019/09/18/five-good-reasons-reformed-and-confessional-christians-should-use-the-kjv/ Mr. White’s foolish response: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Hf50qEUu6yU He mentions his written debate with Doug Wilson. Everyone should listen to this Word Magazine: WM # 80: Review: Douglas Wilson and James
The Arrogance of Scholars
One of the most common and socially acceptable sins in Christendom is the bearing of false witness. This sin usually takes the form of the logical fallacy known as the ad hominem. And while it is
Our Daily Metzger – Amos or Amon
In our previous post Asa or Asaph, we saw how Metzger had no qualms calling the Holy Ghost a liar when he stated, “the evangelist may have derived material for the genealogy, not from the Old Testament
Our Daily Metzger – Asa or Asaph
This is the first in a series that will cover some of the more outrageous and foolish claims by Dr. Bruce Metzger in his Textual Commentary. The series will also show that Restorationist Textual Criticism’s
Do we correct the Textus Receptus with new discoveries?
This objection to the Confessional View of Scripture keeps popping up along with the claim that we have no consistent methodology for textual criticism. Both of these are due to the assumption of RTC advocates that
Doctrinal Significance of John 1:18
HOW THE CRITICAL TEXT TEACHES THE GNOSTIC AND ARIAN HERESIES IN JOHN 1:18 AV/Textus Receptus/Byzantine Priority John 1:18 No man hath seen God at any time; the only begotten Son, which is in the bosom of the Father,
The Verification Problem
IGNORING THE ISSUE With every textual claim put forth by advocates of RTC, whether Critical Text, Majority Text, or something else, they all suffer from the same flaw: an inability to verify their textual choices.
Lest Arius Be Offended
For do I now persuade men, or God? Or do I seek to please men? For if I yet pleased men, I should not be the servant of Christ. – Galatians 1:10 Introduction What
Captain Deflector Hits a Truth Wall
This page is one of those originally lost when the site crashed. It contained a link to a pdf and screenshots exposing Mr. White's ignorance about science, papyri, and the longer ending of Mark. Here's
Textual Issue in John 10:29
From Dean Burgon’s Causes of Corruption We are sometimes able to trace the origin and progress of accidental depravations of the text: and the study is as instructive as it is interesting. Let me invite
The Doctrine Relating to Canon – Method of Faith – 3
CHAPTER IV THE ADVANTAGES OF THE METHOD OF FAITH. 416. The method of faith, on the contrary, by requiring you to study profoundly the divine facts recorded in the Word in order to find your
The Doctrine Relating to Canon – Method of Faith – 2
CHAPTER II OBJECTIONS TO THE METHOD OF SCIENCE. 410. This method of science, which can render such valuable service to the cause of God as long as it is not allowed to pass the limits
The Doctrine Relating to Canon – Method of Faith
The Doctrine Relating to Canon THE METHOD OF FAITH by Louis Gaussen 401. We are come to what, after all, forms the surest foundation of our confidence relative to the entire collection of the Scriptures.
Matthew 2:11 & WCF 1.8
As the Confessional Bibliology Facebook Group is a confessional group affirming the original intent of WCF/2LBCF 1.8 we have the following in our pinned post from Dr. Garnet Milne’s Has the Bible Been Kept Pure
Why New Testament Textual Criticism Can Never Arrive at Truth
RTC as a Thought Experiment https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=W3OatkjM1gU So let’s pretend we have completed such an experiment. We begin our experiment by printing off a copy of the book of Matthew. This printed copy (autograph) is
William Whitaker on the Canon – Part 2
CHAPTER IV. WHEREIN THE ARGUMENT OF THE ADVERSARIES IS PROPOSED AND CONFUTED. Having now premised a brief explanation of these matters, we will come to the discussion of the cause and question proposed. And first,
William Whitaker on the Canon – Part 1
THE FIRST CONTROVERSY. QUESTION I. CHAPTER I. WHEREIN THIS WHOLE CONTROVERSY IS DISTRIBUTED INTO ITS PARTICULAR QUESTIONS. We will lay the foundation of this controvery in those words of Christ which are to be found
The Doctrine Relating to Canon – Part 1
THE DOCTRINE RELATING TO THE CANON. The doctrine which concerns the canon of Scripture is this that God himself has made Himself its guarantee, that His almighty providence is engaged for the preservation of this
Kruger, White, & Lovecraft Walk Into a Bar
Kruger, White, & Lovecraft Walk Into a Bar At the recent G3 conference in Georgia, Dr. Michael Kruger & Mr. James White had a discussion on the Doctrine of the Canon*. The first part of
Robert Rollock – Whether the Scripture be the Word of God
THE NUMBER OF THE CONTROVERSIES WHICH ARE CONCERNING THE WRITTEN WORD : AND OF THE FIRST CONTROVERSY, WHETHER THE SCRIPTURE BE THE WORD OF GOD. There be two kinds of controversies concerning the holy Scripture.
Bullinger's Sermon on the Word of God
Of The Word Of God; The Cause Of It; And How, And By Whom, It Was Revealed To The World. THE FIRST SERMON. ALL the decrees of Christian faith, with every way how to live
James White, Inconsistency, & Lying
James White, Inconsistency, & Lying ##UPDATE#3 (29SEP2019): On the Dividing Line from 24 Sep 2019, (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YA9aoDtJx08) Mr. White attempted to deal with this post and failed multiple ways. First, he equivocated between disputed texts and
Are You a KJVO?
From time to time as one who holds to the Confessional (Biblical) Textual View you will be asked, Are You a KJVO? The very asking of this question when we are arguing not about a