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Bruce presents a strong case for determining canonicity by thoroughly explaining the process by which certain documents received recognition as Scripture. Whether the Old Testament was originally divided into twenty-two divisions or forty-four books, he informs the reader that there was, long ago, a specific collection of books recognized and referred to as “Scripture”, and that the Old Testament canon was likely closed not by an official counsel but by the people (i.e. those who referred to the texts in their worship of Yahweh). Similarly, he points out that when the church gathered together to decide which books they believed were canonical, the council simply endorsed what was already generally accepted from East to West. From the Hebrew to its Greek relative, the Old Testament was joined by the New, and Bruce spares no reference, name, or historical circumstance to prove how it came to be and that it was appropriate to do so. This reader agrees with Bruce’s assessment of the decision made during the Council of Trent, how the books of the Bible were not acknowledged as canonical because they were derived from the mind of godly men and afterward canonized by the authority of the church. But the books of the Bible are indeed the measuring-rod, the rule, because God is the author, and He gave the books to the church. Without His words (the rod) reaching the hearts of men, and those men sharing God’s heart via their pen, all hope for the world would be spoiled. While this reader agrees with the attention Bruce gives to inspiration, this reader disagrees with Bruce when he says that only one of the New Testament writers (John the Beloved) bases their authority on prophetic inspiration. Paul made it quite clear all Scripture is been inspired by God. He also said, “If any man think himself to be a prophet, or spiritual, let him acknowledge that the things that I write unto you are the commandments of the Lord.” Peter said that if anyone speaks he should speak as with “the oracles of God.” In the end, Bruce and this reader may actually be in agreement—Bruce merely making a point about apostolic authority versus inspiration—because he does say, for example, “the Divine inspiration of the Gospels of Mark and Luke is not to be denied, but these works were accepted, first as authoritative and the as canonical scripture, because they were recognized to be trustworthy witnesses to the saving events.” Canon is a good read for any person curious to know just how the Bible came to be. It is simply written, thorough in content, and sure to build confidence in one’s faith in the Bible as the inspired Word of God; all sixty-six books worthy of their place as “Scripture.”Read full review
I bought this book as a text book for a class at the Shephered's Theological Seminary, Old Testament Introduction. So far I like this book because it seems to give a good history or back ground of the Old Testament. Since I have not finished the book I cannot complete this review at this time, but I'm glad I have it.
Describes the formation of the O.T. and N.T as we know it. Very valuable knowledge.
Verified purchase: Yes | Condition: Pre-owned
Happy
Verified purchase: Yes | Condition: Pre-owned
Recommended for anyone studying God's Word in depth.
Verified purchase: Yes | Condition: Pre-owned
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