Canon
The canon refers to the recognized collection of books received by the people of God as Holy Scripture.
Formal Definition
The canon is the set of writings uniquely inspired by God and therefore received by the church as authoritative Scripture.
Key Scriptures
Luke 24:44
John 10:35
2 Timothy 3:16
2 Peter 3:15–16
John 10:35
2 Timothy 3:16
2 Peter 3:15–16
Explanation
The church did not create the canon by granting books authority. Rather, the people of God recognized the books that already bore divine authority. Canon questions involve apostolic witness, covenantal continuity, doctrinal consistency, and reception among God’s people.
Scripture Index
Deuteronomy 31:24–26
Joshua 24:26
Luke 24:44
1 Timothy 5:18
2 Peter 3:15–16
Joshua 24:26
Luke 24:44
1 Timothy 5:18
2 Peter 3:15–16
Subtopics
Old Testament canon
New Testament canon
Recognition of authority
New Testament canon
Recognition of authority
Application / Why It Matters
A stable canon gives believers confidence that the church stands under a received word rather than an endlessly changing one.
Historical / Church Reflection
Canon discussions developed through use, recognition, and defense of the books already functioning as Scripture in the worshiping community.
Viewpoints / Debates
Differences arise over deuterocanonical books, historical reception, and the criteria used to describe recognition.