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Test Explanation Purpose

Internal Consistency

Statement must be consistent with itself and other statements in a given context

Negative test reveals what cannot be possibly true.

External Consistency

Truth claims must be consistent with confirmed truths previously known to all fields of study.

Negative test that reveals what cannot be possibly true.

Correspondence

Truth is discovered through corresponding statements, affirmations, and propositions to reality as it exists

Positive tests that identifies what is absolutely true.

Practical Benefit

Investigates the logical and practical conclusions of adopting a particular truth claim. If the statement or system yields no practical value, it may be false.

Test that seeks to discover the practical benefits, whether constructive or destructive, as the truth claim pertains to life and conduct.

Comprehensive Test

Truth must be all- extensive and able to answer and stand against difficult questions and issues within its category as well as remain consistent with other known universal truths.

Negative test which seeks to discover the soundness of a truth claim as it extends universally to a broad category of issues.

Authority

Attempt to understand the credentials, reputation, character, motivation, and bias of eyewitnesses that serve as authoritative sources supporting a truth claim in an effort to discover their credibility.

A circumstantial test in which emphasis is placed on discovering the qualifications, personal nature, and motivating factors associated with an authority for a particular truth claim.

Chart taken from Charts of Apologetics and Christian Evidences by H. WAYNE HOUSE. Copyright 2006 by H. Wayne House. Used by permission of Zondervan. To find out more info about Charts of Apologetics and Christian evidences, see http://www.Zondervan.com. ISBN# 031021937X

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