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In your opinion, what is the role and importance of the Apocrypha?
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I believe the Apocrypha is non-canonical, i.e. it does not carry the inspiration, inerrancy and authority of true Scripture. However, its value is like other extrabiblical material in providing background information, particularly about the folk religion of the Jews in Biblical times, especially in the intertestamental interlude. Just like the Hebrews in the Divided Kingdom practised syncretism by merging Judaism and Canaanite religions, I believe the returned exiles practised syncretism, mixing the law of God with popular legends and superstitions, as well as their aspirations for national freedom and victory. These beliefs are reflected in the Apocrypha. They were not all true, but the common folk truly believed them, and that explains their behaviour. An example is the book of Tobit which claimed that the archangel Raphael healed Tobit using fish gall. This could have led to the common folk believing that Raphael would stir the waters of the pool of Bethesda sporadically and heal the first person who jumped into the pool. This explains why the ill and the disabled gathered around the pool in Jesus’ time (John 5:1-7). Likewise, the historical books 1 and 2 Maccabees help us to understand how the nationalistic spirit had escalated up to Jesus’ time, causing them to expect their Messiah to overthrow Rome.
#Apocrypha
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As long as the Scriptures as we have it, 66 books, Inspired by God, we can read them knowing they are portraying the truth, I believe then that reading The Apocrypha should not do any harm.
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They offer information on culture, beliefs, and practices, as well as historical views that can augment what is in the scriptures.
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Like Martin Luther, I believe that the Apocrypha gives us good intertestamental history. I adds to the books of canon but, I think, gives us more of an idea regarding the cultural, the traditions, the legends and traditions not mentioned in scripture. It doesn’t change the basis, the real meaning of the canon, just adds to it. I strongly believe that all of the books not included in the orginal Canon must be read with prayer, insight and the leading of the Holy Spirit.
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The Apocrypha can be read as extra information about events or teachings in the Old Testament but they are probably not inspired Words of God because many seem to have been written years after the books they are supposedly related to.