Walking in Faith

[original posted in the TTP forums which can be found here.]

1. Discuss again the importance that we have the right canon?

The “right” canon will always be a controversial topic. The OT and NT canon is the inspired word of God. It has the authority of the LORD and is determined solely by Him. Practicing believers read, study, memorize and practice Scripture contained in the canon. If the canon is wrong, our ideologies may be wrong. I am a firm believer that we have a fallible collection of infallible writings. Does that mean that I need to alter my faith because there are other writings that should be included? No. The historicity and the instructions of salvation are the key to the canon.

2. Are all books of the canon equally important? Do you think that you would ever have noticed if 3 John did not make “the cut”?

Another tricky question. Important, yes. Application to current situation, perhaps not. The example of Philemon given in the video illustrates that point precisely. While I don’t know that I would comment on 3 John specifically, I don’t believe that I would have noticed if any one book was excluded. In my mind, if that book was not included that was because God felt the canon sufficient without the book. He can accomplish His purposes with or without selected books in the canon.

3. Further discuss the importance of the early acceptance of the Gospels and the Pauline corpus.

Acceptance allowed for a clear, concise and consistent message. This message became the foundation for the unity of the Church. Then, and now, debates over controversial topics creates problems. Paul addressed these problems in the Pauline corpus allowing people in the first century (and continuing into the 21st century) to know the Word of the LORD.

4. Can you think of any essential doctrine that is not dealt with in the Gospels and the Pauline corpus? How is this significant?

I cannot think of any essential doctrine that isn’t covered. I would be surprised if Romans doesn’t cover every essential doctrine alone! This is significant for several reasons:

• unity - again, unity in the Church is key! Christians do not need to be arguing over matters of doctrine — they should be witnessing to others!
• uniform - the Scripture is not changing. The message is the same 2000 years ago as it is today. All one has to do is read the Scripture to find the answers to questions. The Bible is constantly changing to adapt to the modern society. The doctrines would become more blurry as the message became corrupted.

5. Are you more or less confident about the canon of Scripture after this lesson? Explain.

I am more confident based on the sources that give validity to their acceptance. From an OT perspective, the controversy mostly circles around the Apocrypha, the Gospel of Thomas, etc. While I have not read these works, I would imagine that the message of salvation through Christ alone is not altered. The information around the NT was much more affirming to me beliefs. There seems to be solid evidence from all sources that the NT testament is fairly well accepted. As I understand more how other’s reference this text, that helps to strengthen my confidence.

6. How does your view of the providence and sovereignty of God affect this study?

God is able to accomplish His plans through whatever means. I am confident that He enabled the current Bible to be constructed with the books we have included today. If the Apocrypha or other works were meant to be included, He would have made that happen. He is control of every situation and ensures that things happen precisely the way He wants them to happen. That is extremely reassuring!

7. How has this lesson most challenged your thinking?

The biggest impact to me from this lesson is my ability to present this information to others. It has challenged me to think about how I can take this knowledge and share it with others so that they may be equipped to explain to others why we, as believers, have the hope that we have.