Rule of faith

Scripture

Rom 12:6-8

⁶ Since we have gifts that differ according to the grace given to us, let us exercise them: if prophecy, in proportion to the faith [ἀναλογίαν τῆς πίστεως];

⁷ if ministry, in ministering; if one is a teacher, in teaching;

⁸ if one exhorts, in exhortation; if one contributes, in generosity; if one is over others, with diligence; if one does acts of mercy, with cheerfulness.

Gal 6:14-16

¹⁴ But may I never boast except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, through which the world has been crucified to me, and I to the world.

¹⁵ For neither does circumcision mean anything, nor does uncircumcision, but only a new creation.

¹⁶ Peace and mercy be to all who follow this rule and to the Israel of God.

Patristic Era

Ignatius (Philadelphians 7-9); Irenaeus (Against Heresies 3:17); and Tertullian (Prescription, 9,13,37,44).

Tertullian(160-225 AD)

Let our "seeking," therefore be in that which is our own, and from those who are our own, and concerning that which is our own, - that, and only that, which can become an object of inquiry without impairing the rule of faith.

Etymology

Greek

ἀναλογίαν

κανών

Latin

regula fidei

analogia fidei

English

analogy

rule, ruler

canon

Links

• Wikipedia, "The Rule of Faith."