Α

CONTAINING

A DESCRIPTION AND' SYSTEMATIC ARRANGEMENT

OF THE

SEVERAL BRANCHES OF DIVINITY:

ACCOMPANIED WITH

AN ACCOUNT BOTH OF THE PRINCIPAL AUTHORS, AND OF THE PROGRESS, WHICH HAS BEEN MADE AT DIFFERENT PERIODS,

IN

Theological Learning.

BY

HERBERT MARSH, D. D. F. R. S. & F.A.S.

LORD BISHOP OF PETERBOROUGH,

AND MARGARET PROFESSOR OF DIVINITY.

PART VI.

On the Credibility of the New Testament.

CAMBRIDGE:

Printed by J. Smith, Printer to the University;

AND SOLD BY DEIGHTONS, NICHOLSONS, AND BARRETT, CAMBRIDGE.

AND F. C. & J. RIVINGTON, LONDON.

[Entered at Stationers' Hall.]

CONTENTS.

LECTURE XXVII.

Page

THE inquiry into the Credibility of the New Testament distinct from the inquiry into its Authenticity. Explanation of the term Authenticity: the use of it in these Lectures, and the reasons for so using it. Transition from Authenticity to Credibility apparently more easy in regard to the books of the New Testament, than in regard to common books. Reasons why it is not so. The Credibility of the New Testament must be established independently of its Inspiration, because the proof of Inspiration depends on the proof of Credibility. Arguments for the Credibility of the New Testament reduced to two heads. We may argue from the character and situation of the writers, or we may argue from the writings themselves. When we argue from the character of the writers to the Credibility of their writings, we argue on the supposition of the Integrity of the New Testament. Explanation of this term. Difference between a perfect text of the Greek Testament, and