This first.
But then further, the Scriptures for the very reason because they were known to be the Word of God became a mark for the shafts of Satan from the beginning.

They were by consequence as eagerly solicited by heretical teachers on the one hand, as they were hotly defended by the orthodox on the other.

Alike from friends and from foes therefore, they are known to have experienced injury, and that in the earliest age of all.

Nothing of the kind can be predicated of any other ancient writings.

This consideration alone should suggest a severe exercise of judicial impartiality, in the handling of ancient evidence of whatever sort.
For I request it may be observed that I have not said--and I certainly do not mean--that the Scriptures themselves have been permanently corrupted either by friend or foe.