How are Buddhist Sacred Texts used in practice and historically, given the questioned authenticity of some of them

I'm curious on how Buddhist Sacred Texts are used in teachings and in practice. The Buddha often says not to solely follow transmitted tradition, instead Buddhists are "exhorted to know for themselves." (Pg 2-3, of [Scriptural Authority: A Buddhist Perspective](http://muse.jhu.edu/journals/buddhist-christian_studies/v030/30.zhiru.pdf) by Shi Zhiru). However, some sutras give sacred texts a much stronger authority (Pg 4). Given that some sacred texts are not evidently authentic, some of which are written hundreds or even thousands of years after the Buddha's passing, what authority do practicing monks and the Sangha give to the sacred texts? How are these texts used? Are they used merely as a guidebook or as intensely analyzed, as say, the Christian Bible? I appreciate any answers with any sources if used! Thanks