Canonical Books in the Bibles

948 Words2 Pages

It is widely accepted through the theological study of the Bible that the gathering and the selection of information included in the final compilation was an extensive and controversial process. Specifically, the events and movements that were influential in the recognition of the canonical books. According to Britannica, the canonical books are recognized as the quintessential corner stone of the New Testament, which also means that they are a foundational part of the current beliefs and practices of most of today’s Christians. Even more important is the process, culmination, and the compilations of events that lead to what Christians currently accept as the Word of God.
There are several key historical references that were influential and these references are imperative to understanding the full context of the canonical books and their relevance to the Christian faith. In most instances, the opposition of generally accepted truths is challenged and when the opposed truth is the winner, it emerges more accepted than it was before. This is the case for the canonical books as well. Challenges of opposing faiths are a major part of their emergences as the truth. Therefore, early Christianity experienced opposition from individuals and their following, thusly creating a devote need for clarification and a solidified statement of beliefs for all Christians. This was a part of the events that shaped the canonical books and it also contributed to the clarification and interpretation of what it actually meant to be a Christian and the consensus of what that meant to an individual seeking to serve the one true living God (Brueggeman 1978). In an analysis of the most prolific influences of the canonical books, the Gnostics, the ideals of...

... middle of paper ...

...he canonical book represents an act to preserve the teachings of Christ in order for it to maintain perpetuity. Essentially, the process of the culmination of these books represents a struggle to preserve the word of God. It is within this struggle that the early Church solidifies the Gospel and lays the spiritual foundation for Christianity to continue to reach the masses in its written truth.

Works Cited

Brueggemann, W.. "Book Review: Canon And Authority." Interpretation: A Journal of Bible and Theology 32, no. 3 (1978): 326-327.

Grant, Robert . "New Literature." The Biblical World 23, no. 4 (1904): 318.

Humphries, Mark. Early Christianity. London: Routledge, 2006.

Quispel, Gilles. "Marcion And The Text Of The New Testament." Vigiliae Christianae 52, no. 4 (1998): 349.

Wilson, R. McL.. "Gnostic Origins." Vigiliae Christianae 9, no. 1 (1955): 193-211.

Open Document