Why do Christians recognize these sixty-six books as Scripture and not others?
Did church leaders decide centuries later which books belonged in the Bible? Were important books left out? Or did the early church recognize writings that had already been received as God’s inspired Word?
These questions have been discussed for centuries, and they remain important today. Understanding how the biblical canon developed helps us appreciate both the historical process and the confidence Christians have in the Bible they read.
The accompanying Apples of Gold article explores how the Old and New Testament canons developed, the principles the early church used to recognize inspired books, and why evangelical Christians believe the church recognized the canon rather than creating it.
Questions for Discussion
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When did you first learn how the biblical canon was formed?
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Do you think the church created the canon or recognized the books God had already inspired? Why?
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Why do you think apostolic authorship was such an important criterion for recognizing New Testament books?
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How should Christians respond to claims that important books were left out of the Bible?
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Why do you think books such as the Gospels of Thomas or Judas were not recognized as Scripture by the early church?
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Does learning about the history of the canon strengthen your confidence in the Bible? Why or why not?
I look forward to hearing your thoughts.
Related Apples of Gold article: