Scripture and Tradition
Catholics receive the inspired Scriptures within the apostolic Tradition by which the Church hands on the gospel. Tradition is more than old customs, and the teaching office of the bishops in communion with the pope serves the Word of God rather than adding a new revelation. Scripture, Tradition, and the Magisterium have distinct roles in this account.
Why it matters
The way a church receives and interprets revelation shapes every later doctrinal question.
Historical context
The New Testament canon was recognized over time in the Church's worship and teaching. Vatican II's Dei Verbum explains the modern Catholic relationship of Scripture, Tradition, and the teaching office; it should be read with the biblical passages rather than inferred from one proof text.
Tradition note
Follow local parish or diocesan formation guidance for sacramental preparation.
Pastoral note
This introduction supports study; ask a parish or diocesan formation team about preparation and reception in your local church.
Key points
- Read Scripture within the Church's living Tradition.
- Learn the role of bishops and the Magisterium in interpretation.
Learning objectives
- Distinguish Scripture, apostolic Tradition, and the Magisterium.
- Explain why a local custom is not automatically binding doctrine.
- Read a disputed passage alongside the Church's stated interpretation.
Essentials
- Scripture is inspired and central in Catholic teaching.
- The Church distinguishes apostolic Tradition from changeable traditions.
- The Magisterium interprets the deposit of faith; it does not stand above God's Word.
Common questions
- Does Tradition mean every old practice is binding?
- Can the Magisterium contradict Scripture?
Practice and discussion
- Read a Gospel continuously and compare the Sunday lectionary reading.
- Read Dei Verbum 7–10 and write down each source of authority it names.
Scripture
- 2 Timothy 3:14–17 — Paul calls Scripture God-breathed and useful for teaching.
- 2 Thessalonians 2:15 — Paul refers to teaching handed on by word and letter; Catholic interpretation places this within apostolic Tradition.
- Luke 24:44–49 — Christ opens the Scriptures and commissions apostolic witness.
Primary sources
Dei Verbum §10 states:
Vatican II's Dei Verbum describes Scripture and Tradition as one sacred deposit of God's word.
Sacred tradition and Sacred Scripture form one sacred deposit of the word of God
Passage context and translation
A Catholic conciliar formulation of revelation's transmission, not a quotation from the New Testament.
After the excerpt
committed to the Church.