Cannon Received
Canon Received
In the Sunday morning sermon, I made mention of the Pseudo Gospels. These were largely 2-5th century Gnostic works that added to what is recorded in the 4 Gospels about the life and ministry of Christ. They provide fictional tales about Jesus, which do not comport with what is recorded in Scripture. However, over the last decade, these ‘Apocryphal Gospels’ have become popular in our wider culture. That is largely due to various movies and books, which claim the church intentionally left out these ‘Lost Gospels,’ because it was trying to spin a message.
The argument is there was wild diversity in the church on what constituted Christianity, and no one knew the right or wrong books which were to be included in the New Testament (NT). What we have today is the byproduct of ‘the side that won the fight.’ However, that is simply not the case. When we look at the NT, it is self-attesting. For example, in 1 Tim. 5:18, Paul quotes Luke 10:7, “The laborer deserves his wages,” as Scripture. Luke’s Gospel was recognized as inspired by God. And 2 Pet. 3:16, Peter identifies Paul’s letter as Scripture. He equated them with the Old Testament. Within the 1st century, the NT, large in part, was recognized as Scripture. The early church did not determine which books got into the canon. By the illuminating power of the Holy Spirit, they received the NT books. We can have confidence in the Bible’s veracity, because God is the one who gave it, and preserves it for his people, that they might know Christ and grow in Christ.
Listen to this series by Dr. Michael Krueger (RTS Charlotte), and this one from Ligonier ministries, as he explains the reception and nature of the NT. You will be edified and assured of God’s Word. You will be led to worship the God who has revealed himself in Scripture, and who keeps Scripture for his glory and your good.
—Pastor Clif
You can also watch this video from The Gospel Coalition on this topic.