What constitutes the Word of God?

The concept of the Word of God, as defined in the Westminster Shorter Catechism, encompasses the entirety of the Holy Scriptures found in both the Old and New Testaments. This understanding reflects the belief that the Bible collectively serves as divine revelation, inspired by God and authoritative in matters of faith and practice.

By recognizing the Old and New Testaments together as the complete Word of God, this view emphasizes the continuity of God's message throughout history and the fulfillment of biblical prophecy and teachings. It acknowledges the Old Testament's foundational role, including the law and the prophets, and the New Testament's fulfillment through the life and teachings of Jesus Christ and the writings of the apostles.

The other options, while acknowledging aspects of Scripture or divine revelation, do not capture the full scope of what constitutes the Word of God. For instance, referring solely to historical texts underestimates their spiritual significance, whereas limiting it to just the New Testament neglects the vital teachings and context provided by the Old Testament. Additionally, while the words spoken by prophets are indeed part of Scripture and contribute to the Word of God, they are not the entirety of it. The comprehensive view represented in the correct answer thus aligns more fully with traditional Christian doctrine as articulated in the Catechism.