The published statement of the elders and apostles made it possible for believers to communicate accurately the advice of the council. Heresies arise as a result of our imperfections. Since the earliest days of the church there have been those who have misused the Bible and attached their own meanings to it. This creed explains what the Bible teaches about the nature of man as a finite, changeable creature, and his corruption due to his fall into sin. It confirms that errors will arise unavoidably.
Creeds help identify departures from the clear teachings set forth in Scripture.
Good creeds point to the authority of the Bible alone. The confession immediately lays down the Bible as its own foundation. The Westminster Assembly carefully maintained a cautious reliance upon biblical language and expressions as doctrines were explained. It forbids all human speculation in stating what is true. The Westminster standards would rather say less about God and our duties than to speculate in areas of less clarity or where faithful, believing, students of the Bible admit a need for continuing study.