All synods or councils, since the Apostles' times, whether general or particular, may err; and many have erred. Therefore they are not to be made the rule of faith, or practice; but to be used as a help in both.
Reformed Protestants carry no water for the idea that church councils are infallible. While we have great respect for the first four general ecumenical councils they remain subordinate to the authority of Scripture. To the extent that the decisions and decrees of a church council aligns with Scripture they are to be heeded, as we discussed yesterday. Only Scripture can be the rule of faith and practice. Yet councils, being composed of wise and experienced Christians, many of whom have steeped themselves in the wisdom of Scripture and have much sanctification, are valuable resources for the church and may offer great help that is perilous to disregard. This is the esteem in which we hold the Westminster Assembly--a great and good council, yet fallible, and always subject to correction by the Scriptures.
Tomorrow: Church assemblies and the civil magistrate.
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