What is “Regula Fidei”?
What is "Regula Fidei" and is this principle of interpretation considered obsolete by those who practice the Grammatical Historical approach to hermeneutics or does it survive in some form?
The rule of faith is the standard by which faith is measured. The Catholic church certainly practices the Grammatical Historical (GH) approach and their regula fidei is the Magesterium representing the church. But they do not only practice the GH approach.
For those who solely practice GH, the Chicago Statements on Biblical Inerrancy and Hermeneutics are attempts at such a rule. However, one can only rule what one can destroy. So in practice, the rule can only be applied within the bounds of recognized authority. If one cannot be excommunicated, then no rule can be enforced. It is a bit odd that Reformation theologians would attempt to form a new priesthood above the average believer who is instructed by God to study to show themselves approved.
Therein lies the tension. How can a rule of faith be enforced when your statements of faith make us a nation of priests and individually responsible for understanding and obeying the scriptures.
So the direct answer is, No. Those who practice GH alone currently believe they can enforce a rule of faith through fellowshipping and coersion, as demonstrated by the production of the Chicago statements and the political fallout in the respective denominations that adopted them.
