Discover the fascinating journey of how the Bible became the collection we know today. Unravel the historical debates surrounding the New Testament texts and the significant influence of Marcion on canon formation. Explore Martin Luther's concerns about including certain books and the differing views between Roman Catholic and Protestant Bibles. Understand the church's crucial role in establishing the canon and learn the criteria used to determine which texts were deemed sacred. Gain confidence in the inspiration and authority of the Scriptures.
Marcion's selective editing of biblical texts prompted early church leaders to establish a definitive list for the New Testament canon.
The formation of the canon was a historical process guided by divine providence, ensuring the integrity of the chosen texts.
Deep dives
Marcion's Influence on Biblical Canon
Marcion's approach to the Bible significantly impacted the formation of the New Testament canon. He created a selective version of the scriptures, discarding any texts that he believed contradicted his view of a loving God in the New Testament versus a vengeful God in the Old Testament. This process of cherry-picking texts forced early church leaders to recognize the need for a definitive list of authoritative books. Consequently, Marcion's actions prompted the church to establish criteria for the New Testament canon that would preserve its integrity and authenticity.
The Historical Process of Canon Formation
The process of determining which books belonged in the Bible involved extensive discussions and meetings throughout early church history. By the end of the fourth century, particularly at the Third Council of Carthage, significant decisions were made regarding the canon. However, it's important to recognize that the early church already acknowledged many texts as sacred scripture well before these formal meetings took place. This historical context underscores that recognition of the New Testament writings occurred organically as the church sought to adhere to the teachings of the apostles.
Confident in the Authority of Scripture
The church's discernment in forming the canon is rooted in the belief that it was guided by divine providence, allowing for a level of confidence in the chosen texts. Although some may question whether certain books belong in the canon, the weight of historical consensus strongly supports the decisions made regarding scripture. The Protestant perspective emphasizes that while the compilation process was not infallible, it aimed to faithfully represent the inspired works of the apostles. This assurance, coupled with the easy access to the scriptures in contemporary times, reinforces the belief in the Bible as the authoritative word of God.
The Bible is not simply one book, but a collection of 66 books written over hundreds of years. How do we know for sure that all the right books were included? Today, R.C. Sproul explains how we got the Bible we have today.
Get R.C. Sproul’s booklet Can I Trust the Bible?, his teaching series Hath God Said? on DVD, and lifetime digital access to the messages and study guide for your donation of any amount: https://gift.renewingyourmind.org/3911/donate
Meet Today’s Teacher: R.C. Sproul (1939–2017) was known for his ability to winsomely and clearly communicate deep, practical truths from God’s Word. He was founder of Ligonier Ministries, first minister of preaching and teaching at Saint Andrew’s Chapel, first president of Reformation Bible College, and executive editor of Tabletalk magazine. Meet the Host: Nathan W. Bingham is vice president of ministry engagement for Ligonier Ministries, executive producer and host of Renewing Your Mind, host of the Ask Ligonier podcast, and a graduate of Presbyterian Theological College in Melbourne, Australia. Nathan joined Ligonier in 2012 and lives in Central Florida with his wife and four children.
Renewing Your Mind is a donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Explore all of our podcasts: https://www.ligonier.org/podcasts
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