Scripture's evidence is not metaphysical demonstration; its light is moral evidence that induces the pious and prudent

The evidence that belongs to Scripture is not of the former kind. For that Scripture is divinely inspired is not a thing known of itself, as these principles are — The whole is greater than its part; The same thing cannot at once be and not be. Nor can that be demonstrated logically or mathematically, as experience shows. For no one has ever been able to bring any demonstration of this truth. Add that if the matter stood so, the assent we would give to sacred Scripture would be science, not faith, since the definition of science itself is that it is a demonstrative habit.

Therefore sacred Scripture has no other light or evidence besides that moral evidence we have named. For although it is not known of itself, nor can it properly be demonstrated, that sacred Scripture came forth from God, yet this is urged by so many and so probable arguments, and Scripture has in itself so many and so marked notes and indications of its divinity, that from them a pious and prudent man is effectively led to believe that it is true and divine.