05.03 - Evidences Manifold Notably the Moral

III. EVIDENCES MANIFOLD, NOTABLY THE MORAL The divine origin of revelation and the supreme authority of the Scriptures are proved not by one argument but by many, not by one kind of evidence but by all combined. Hence any attempt to destroy one form of argument, or to discredit one kind of evidence, however successful, cannot be said to destroy or to discredit Divine revelation itself. This is important to remember when dealing with destructive Criticism. We must not hastily conclude that because some particular theory of miracles, or argument from prophecy, or view of inspiration and revelation is proved untenable, that therefore the Divine origin of revelation and the authority of Scripture must be abandoned. Not so: the argument is broader and firmer than that. These arc but buttresses that have been demolished, the foundation standeth sure when even the buttresses are destroyed.

Evidences are not proofs, but aids to truth, helps to faith, great moral supports. These things do not compel faith but win it; they do not force conviction but produce it; the evidences adduced are not demon 1 Prophecy, p. 59. strative, but they create an atmosphere of probability, and give a ground for credence that becomes assuring in its likelihood and stability, and persuasive in its reasonableness and moral certainty. These things combined with the nature of the truths taught, the exalted character of the teaching, the sublime views put forth on such subjects as God and Christ and the Holy Spirit; of man, sin, and redemption; of righteousness, holiness, and happiness; of life, immortality, and eternal judgment are such as no uninspired mind ever has, or ever could have, conceived.