Why Sola Scriptura Isn’t Enough: A Catholic Perspective

In a recent YouTube video by Kenny Burchard, I found myself deeply reflecting on the concept of sola scriptura, a doctrine central to many Protestant denominations which posits that Scripture alone is the final authority on matters of faith and morals. This resonated strongly with memories of lively discussions during the men's fellowship breakfasts I used to enjoy with friends like Chris, Ken, and Ted. Those mornings often stirred vigorous debate, especially around foundational issues of faith and the authority guiding Christian living. Today, from a Catholic standpoint, I want to explore why sola scriptura—though sincerely held by many—ultimately falls short as the exclusive basis for Christian life.

What Is Sola Scriptura?

Sola scriptura, Latin for "by Scripture alone," emerged prominently during the Protestant Reformation as an alternative to the Catholic understanding of authority. At its core, it holds that the Bible alone is sufficient to guide all aspects of faith, doctrine, and moral living.

The Catholic Understanding: Scripture, Tradition, and Magisterium

The Catholic perspective differs significantly. The Church teaches that divine revelation comes through a threefold authority:

1. Sacred Scripture – Inspired and authoritative texts.

2. Sacred Tradition – Teachings and practices handed down from the apostles.

3. Magisterium – The teaching authority of the Church, guided by the Holy Spirit, to interpret Scripture and Tradition faithfully.

Catholics see these elements as deeply intertwined, each essential to authentically understand God’s revelation.

Why Sola Scriptura Falls Short: Key Points

1. The Bible Does Not Claim Itself as Sole Authority

Interestingly, Scripture itself does not claim to be the only source of spiritual truth. In fact, it points to the importance of oral teachings and apostolic traditions. Consider Paul’s instructions:

• 2 Thessalonians 2:15 (RSVCE):

  "Stand firm and hold to the traditions which you were taught by us, either by word of mouth or by letter."

Paul explicitly affirms the legitimacy of both written and oral traditions.

2. Historical Development of Scripture

The Bible, as we know it, took centuries to compile. The Catholic Church, guided by Sacred Tradition and the Magisterium, discerned which books were divinely inspired and authoritative. If Scripture alone were sufficient, how would the Church have authentically discerned which texts to include or exclude?

3. Interpretative Challenges

Without a consistent interpretive authority, reliance on Scripture alone has resulted in thousands of denominations, each interpreting Scripture differently. This highlights the need for an authoritative interpretive body, which the Catholic Church sees fulfilled in the Magisterium, tracing back to the apostles.

4. Biblical Affirmation of Church Authority

Jesus established a visible, authoritative Church:

• Matthew 16:18–19 (NIV):

  "And I tell you that you are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church... I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven..."

Here, authority is explicitly given to Peter and the apostles, not solely to Scripture.

5. Tradition Is Vital for Context and Understanding

Tradition provides essential context. For instance, the doctrine of the Trinity, universally accepted by Christians, is not explicitly defined in Scripture but emerged through Church councils guided by Sacred Tradition and authoritative teaching.

Personal Reflections and Fellowship Memories

These theological insights resonate deeply because of my fellowship experiences with friends like Chris, Ken, and Ted. Those morning discussions often revealed how easily sincere believers could diverge significantly in their interpretations without a guiding authority beyond personal understanding of Scripture. I treasure those conversations precisely because they highlighted our common desire to seek truth—but they also revealed why relying solely on individual interpretations of Scripture can create confusion rather than unity.

Scripture in Harmony

While Scripture is central and foundational, God did not intend for it to stand alone. He provided a Church—rich in Sacred Tradition and guided by the Holy Spirit—to faithfully preserve and interpret His Word. Catholicism embraces Scripture wholeheartedly but within the fuller context of the Church’s living Tradition and teaching authority.

As Catholics, we are called not just to know Scripture, but to live within the harmonious truth upheld by Scripture, Tradition, and the Magisterium. This broader understanding offers a deeper, unified, and historically grounded approach to Christian faith.

I’d love to hear your thoughts on this. How do you understand the role of Scripture and tradition in your own faith journey?