Why does this teaching matter?
MacArthur's statement affirms the historic Protestant doctrine of Sola Scriptura — that the Bible alone is the final authority for faith and practice. In an age of claimed 'new revelations,' prophetic words, and extra-biblical authority, this declaration draws a line that separates biblical Christianity from every form of mysticism and false prophecy.
What did John MacArthur teach?
"The Bible is the only source of divine revelation. It is complete, sufficient, and authoritative for all matters of faith and practice."
Speaker: John MacArthur
Source: The Master's Seminary Statement of Faith
What does Scripture confirm?
2 Timothy 3:16-17
"All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work."
— NKJV
Scripture makes the man of God COMPLETE and THOROUGHLY equipped. If the Bible fully equips believers for every good work, no additional revelation is needed. Claims of new prophecy imply Scripture is insufficient.
Psalm 19:7
"The law of the Lord is perfect, converting the soul; The testimony of the Lord is sure, making wise the simple."
— NKJV
God's Word is described as PERFECT — lacking nothing. It converts souls and gives wisdom. No supplement is needed for what is already perfect.
Revelation 22:18-19
"For I testify to everyone who hears the words of the prophecy of this book: If anyone adds to these things, God will add to him the plagues that are written in this book; and if anyone takes away from the words of the book of this prophecy, God shall take away his part from the Book of Life."
— NKJV
God's final warning in Scripture is against addition or subtraction. Those who claim new revelations equal to Scripture are adding to what God has completed.