On Sola Scriptura

This paper examines the doctrine of sola scriptura, the claim that Scripture alone is the only infallible rule of faith, by comparing it against the Catholic understanding of Scripture, Tradition, and the Magisterium. It is structured as a series of paired arguments: each major argument is presented in its strongest form, followed by the most substantial objection to it. Arguments for sola scriptura include the sufficiency and clarity of Scripture, the practice of Christ and the Apostles, and the fallibility of tradition and councils. Arguments against include the formation of the canon, historical and temporal priority, the need for a living interpreter, oral tradition, and the covenantal promises of Church indefectibility. The analysis draws on the Greek text of key passages and on patristic and scholastic sources, including Augustine, Irenaeus, Athanasius, Aquinas, and Newman. It concludes in favour of the Catholic position, but the author is still open to criticism. Solo scriptura is not addressed.