Again, touching the question of bias and prejudice, it is worthy of
observation that skeptics fail to apply the same rules of criticism to
sacred that they employ in profane literature. It is contended by them
that the Evangelists are unworthy of belief because their writings
record the words and deeds of their own Lord and Master. It is asserted
that this sacred and tender relationship warped and blinded their
Judgment, and disqualified them to write truthfully the facts and
circumstances connected with the life and ministry of the founder of
their faith. But these same critics do not apply the same tests of
credibility to secular writers sustaining similar relationships. The
Commentaries of Cæsar and the Anabasis of Xenophon record the mighty
deeds and brilliant achievements of their authors; but this fact does
not destroy their reliability as historical records in the estimation of
those who insist that the Gospel writers shall be rejected on grounds of
bias and partiality. The Memorabilia of Xenophon, "Recollections of
Socrates," is the tribute of an affectionate and admiring disciple; and
yet, all the colleges and universities of the world employ this work as
a text-book in teaching the life and style of conversation of the great
Athenian philosopher. It is never argued that the intimate relationship
existing between Xenophon and Socrates should affect the credibility of
the author of the Memorabilia. The best biography in the English
language is Boswell's "Life of Johnson." Boswell's admiration for Dr.
Johnson was idolatrous. At times, his servile flattery of the great
Englishman amounted to disgusting sycophancy. In spite of this, his work
is a monumental contribution to historical literature. The "Encyclopedia
Britannica" says that "Boswell has produced the best biography the world
has yet seen"; but why not reject this book because of its author's
spaniel-like devotion to the man whose life he has written? If Matthew,
Mark, Luke, and John are to be repudiated on the ground of bias, why not
repudiate Cæsar, Xenophon, and Boswell? It is respectfully submitted
that there is no real difference in logic between the tests of
credibility applicable to sacred, and those required in the case of
profane writers. A just and exact criticism will apply the same rules to
both.
Public-domain text, read in full here on John Shaqi.
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