The Messenger
Our Weekly Bulletin
Our Weekly Bulletin
The term “canon” comes from a Greek word meaning rule or standard. When applied to Scripture, it refers to the recognized collection of books that are divinely inspired and authoritative. The Bible consists of 66 books, these books were not chosen by men but were recognized by God’s people as inspired fully by the Holy Spirit. 2 Peter 1:20-21 says, “knowing this first, that no prophecy of Scripture is of any private interpretation, for prophecy never came by the will of man, but holy men of God spoke as they were moved by the Holy Spirit.”
One of the most important questions regarding the Bible is how we know which books belong in it. The collection of books we call the Bible is known as the “canon of Scripture”; meaning the standard or rule by which God’s inspired Word is recognized. Understanding the formation of the canon helps us appreciate God’s providence in preserving His truth.
The Old Testament canon was recognized by the Jewish people long before Jesus’ time. Jesus Himself affirmed the Hebrew Scriptures, referring to them as the “Law, the Prophets, and the Psalms” (Luke 24:44). The New Testament canon, consisting of the 27 books we have today, was written by inspired (God breathed) men, (2 Timothy 3:16-17; 2 Peter 1:20-21). The early church recognized these writings as authoritative because they came from God.
Some claim that the canon was the result of human decisions, but Scripture shows that God is the One who ensures His Word endures (Psalm 119:89; Matthew 24:35). The Bible was not assembled by councils but recognized by the church through divine guidance. By the second century, nearly all books of the New Testament were widely accepted, and by the fourth century, the complete canon was confirmed. The canon of Scripture is crucial because it affirms that we have God’s complete and sufficient Word (2 Timothy 3:16-17). We do not need additional revelations or lost books, for God has given us “all things that pertain to life and godliness” (2 Peter 1:3). As we study and apply the Bible, we can trust that it is the inspired, inerrant, and preserved Word of God.
Let us always be thankful that God has revealed His will and preserved it for us today. May we continue to study, teach, and live by His Word! “All flesh is as grass, and all the glory of man as the flower of the grass. The grass withers, and its flower falls away, but the word of the Lord endures forever.” 1 Peter 1:24-25.
God Bless -Todd
Download PDF
Stay up-to-date on events and information by receiving a digital copy of our weekly Messenger in your email by completing the form below. The office staff also sends emails as needed to keep our church family informed of any important news or developments within the congregation.