Ques. 93. What proof have we that the Bible is the inspired Word of God, and by what authority do we know that the Apocrypha is not inspired? M. G.
Ans. The Bible claims in both Old and New Testament to be the Word of God. (Isa. 1:2, 10, etc.; 2 Tim. 3:15-17; 2 Peter 1:21.) To unbelief there is no proof, but to faith it proves itself to be God's Word by what it works in the soul. Applied by the, Spirit it makes us feel our need, and presents Christ to us, meeting the need and satisfying our affections. Everything in it circles around Him. The Scriptures have one mind, viz, to honor Him. It is this that proves it to faith to be the Word of God. It declares Christ to be the Son of God. It is woven together as one mind He gives it authority in the soul. John 5:39, 46, 47.
Those who have examined the Apocrypha say that it lacks the above qualities and is thus proven to be an imitation, the writings of uninspired men.