We begin our third annual Reformation Lecture Series by considering the basis of authority in the church. We see that one of the hallmarks of the Reformation was the cry for the church to return to the Scriptures alone as the final authority in all matters of faith and practice. We consider the teaching of the Roman Catholic Church on this subject and review the Council of Trent, in which various authorities are put forward as the basis for reform of the church. We see that Scripture is unequivocal in claiming sole authority and that traditions, leaders and whatever other authorities are put forward should be rejected.

Finally, we look at ways in which Protestant churches themselves can and do depart from the unique authority of Scripture and we are challenged to ensure that we do not follow this trend but look to Scripture alone as our authority in the Christian faith.