There is a difference between source and interpretation. We all agree that the Scriptures are the inspired Word of God, and that it is sufficient for showing us the way to salvation and how to live a godly life. The problem is interpretation. The Protestant idea that everyone has the authority to read and to interpret Scripture on his own has been a source of the fragmentation within Protestantism. Protestantism has no single teaching authority that determines the correct interpretation of Scripture and the development of doctrine. The only alternative that the Lutherans had was to advocate those educated in theological studies. It is a mess. The question is whether or not there is a viable alternative. Councils and church fathers are not without error. Apostolic succession is no guarantee of truth. As I see it, Christianity does not have a solution to this horrible problem
“The question is whether or not there is a viable alternative. Councils and church fathers are not without error. Apostolic succession is no guarantee of truth. As I see it, Christianity does not have a solution to this horrible problem.”
So the problem is that people have difficulty following the authority of Christ, so the solution is to let every man interpret for himself? From where I sit, Apostolic succession and Church councils are the best way to preserve the teachings of Christ. That along with having a clear heirarchy with the priest at the top.