Believe Quote by John Calvin
“Let this point therefore stand: that those whom the Holy Spirit has inwardly taught truly rest upon Scripture, and that Scripture itself is self-authenticated. . . . Therefore, illumined by his power, we believe neither by our own nor by any one else's judgment that Scripture is from God; but above human judgment we affirm with utter certainty (just as if we were gazing upon the majesty of God himself) that it has flowed to us from the very mouth of God by the ministry of men.”
About This Quote
Source Treat: Institutes of the Christian Religion, Book 3, 1559
Calvin asserts that Scripture validates itself through the Holy Spirit, not human judgment, and is divinely authored.
In simple terms: Scripture validates itself and comes from God, not human opinion.
Key Takeaway
Trust Scripture’s divine origin.
Themes
theology
authority
faith
Mood
reverent
confident
Type
doctrinal
theological
When to use this quote
- personal study
- preaching
- doctrinal debates
- church teaching
Key Concepts
Self-authentication
divine inspiration
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you discern the Spirit’s guidance?
- Can authority be fully self‑authenticating?
A Different Perspective
Human interpretation can still mislead without spiritual discernment.
