Why the Apocrypha is Not in the Bible

Explore the intriguing reasons behind the exclusion of the Apocrypha from the Bible. Discover the historical, doctrinal, and canonical criteria that these texts failed to meet, and understand why they are not considered inspired scriptures despite their historical and literary value. Join us in uncovering the truth and deepening your biblical knowledge.

[@soundpreacher]

The Apocrypha came up in class this morning. I told people to look at this video, because I knew it would be an in-depth study.

[@timsmith2525]

Interesting, but some specific examples of contradictions would be helpful.

[@LGministry]

Here are a few noted contradictions between the Apocrypha and the Bible or historical facts:
1. Doctrinal Inconsistencies
Prayer for the Dead (2 Maccabees 12:45-46):
2 Maccabees promotes the idea of praying for the dead, suggesting that prayers can help the souls of the departed.
Contradiction:
The canonical books of the Bible do not support the concept of praying for the dead. For example, Hebrews 9:27 states, "And as it is appointed unto men once to die, but after this the judgment," implying that judgment follows death immediately and that the state of the soul cannot be altered posthumously.
2. **Historical Errors
King Nebuchadnezzar and Nineveh (Judith 1:1):
The book of Judith claims that Nebuchadnezzar was the king of the Assyrians and reigned in Nineveh.
Contradiction:
Historically, Nebuchadnezzar was the king of Babylon, not Assyria, and he reigned from Babylon. Nineveh was the capital of the Assyrian Empire and was destroyed before Nebuchadnezzar's time.
3. Contradictory Teachings on Salvation
Works and Almsgiving (Tobit 12:9):
Tobit suggests that almsgiving can deliver from death and purge away sins: "For almsgiving delivers from death and keeps you from going into the darkness."
Contradiction:
The Bible teaches that salvation is by faith and not by works. Ephesians 2:8-9 states, "For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God, not of works, lest anyone should boast."
4. Inconsistent Chronology
Chronology in Baruch:
The book of Baruch claims to be written by Baruch, the scribe of Jeremiah, in Babylon. However, it describes events and contains references that suggest a later composition, inconsistent with the timeline of Baruch’s life.
Contradiction:
Jeremiah and Baruch lived in the 6th century B.C., during the Babylonian exile, but the historical details and language suggest that Baruch was written much later, possibly in the 2nd century B.C.
5. Angels and Magic
Raphael’s Instructions (Tobit 6:5-7):
In the book of Tobit, the angel Raphael instructs Tobias to use a fish’s heart and liver to drive away demons and heal blindness.
Contradiction:
The Bible does not endorse the use of magical practices or charms for healing or exorcism. Instead, healing and exorcism are attributed to the power of God. Acts 19:19 records how converts in Ephesus renounced magical practices, burning their books of spells.
6. Ethical Issues
**Deception and Assassination (Judith 9:2-4; 13:8):**
The story of Judith involves her deceiving and assassinating Holofernes, which is portrayed as a heroic act.
Contradiction:
The Bible, while recording historical accounts that include deception and killing, generally promotes truthfulness and condemns murder. Proverbs 12:22 states, "Lying lips are an abomination to the Lord, but those who deal truthfully are His delight."
Conclusion
While some traditions regard the Apocrypha as valuable for historical or moral lessons, these texts are not considered inspired Scripture by many Christian denominations due to the contradictions and inconsistencies with the canonical Bible. These contradictions include doctrinal differences, historical inaccuracies, and ethical concerns that do not align with the teachings and standards found in the accepted books of the Bible.

[@timsmith2525]

@@LGministry Thank you!

[@tml721]

ASSUMPTION of Moses is also used by Jude but does not mean it is authority

[@LGministry]

You comment is too vague for me to understand what you are trying to say.

[@tml721]

@@LGministry This video makes comments about other documents being quoted in the New Testament. I'm adding one to the list.