Our Only Safeguard
The Bible vs. The Apocrypha
This section explores the epic debate over the Inspired Word of God. In the 16th century, the Reformers faced a critical choice: follow the traditions of men or the "Bible, and the Bible only." This study examines how The Great Controversy identifies the Scriptures as our only shield against the final delusions of history.
1. The Great Debate: Reformers & The Word
The Protestant Reformation was built upon the principle of Sola Scriptura. Reformers like Martin Luther, John Calvin, and John Wycliffe recognized that for a doctrine to be inspired, it must bear the seal of Heaven. They rejected the Apocrypha as the basis for doctrine because these books—while historically interesting—often contain teachings (such as prayers for the dead) that contradict the clear "Thus saith the Lord" found in the 66 canonical books.
"But God will have a people upon the earth to maintain the Bible, and the Bible only, as the standard of all doctrines and the basis of all reforms."
— The Great Controversy, p. 595
2. Gallery of the Inspired Reformers
The following pioneers staked their lives on the belief that the Bible is the supreme authority.
John Wycliffe
"The Morning Star of the Reformation"
First to translate the Bible into English so the common person could have the safeguard.
Martin Luther
The Defender of Faith
At the Diet of Worms, he declared his conscience was captive to the Word of God alone.
William Tyndale
The Martyr for the Word
Famous for stating that a "ploughboy" should know more of Scripture than the clergy.
Athanasius
The Guardian of Canon
One of the earliest to list the 27 New Testament books as the exclusive inspired canon.
3. Biblical Proof: Our Only Safeguard
The Bible itself warns that in the last days, "spirits of darkness" will perform miracles and signs. Our only protection is to test every spirit by the Word.
Isaiah 8:20
"To the law and to the testimony: if they speak not according to this word, it is because there is no light in them."
Psalm 119:105
"Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path."
2 Timothy 4:3
"For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears."
Matthew 24:24
"For there shall arise false Christs, and false prophets, and shall shew great signs and wonders; insomuch that, if it were possible, they shall deceive the very elect."
4. Lessons from The Great Controversy
Chapter 37 – "The Scriptures a Safeguard"
In the final struggle between Christ and Satan, The Scriptures a Safeguard is the decisive factor. According to Ellen White:
The Counterfeit
Satan's deceptions will so closely resemble the truth that only those who have fortified their minds with the Bible will be able to distinguish between them.
The Test
To every soul will come the searching test: "Shall I obey God rather than men?"
The Duty
It is the first and highest duty of every rational being to learn from the Scriptures what is truth.
🎧 Listen & Learn – The Scriptures a Safeguard
Listen to a dramatized reading of The Great Controversy, Chapter 37: The Scriptures a Safeguard.
📚 Deepen Your Study – Logos Bible Resources
For a deeper look at how the Apocrypha differs from the inspired canon, and to read the original reformers' debates, explore these Logos resources:
Continue Your Study with Logos
Access the Logos Factbook for comprehensive research on the Apocrypha, including manuscripts, historical context, and scholarly analysis.