This course gives a scholarly and balanced perspective on the complex issues
surrounding the formation of the Christian canon of scripture.
surrounding the formation of the Christian canon of scripture.
The primary textbook is Lee McDonald’s approach to this complex and critical
subject in his balanced and respected textbook The Formation of the Christian Biblical Canon.
The course also aims at exposing students to debates and apologetics associated with disagreements among Christians regarding the status of several disputed books.At the end of the course, the student shall be able to understand and articulate the complexity of the concepts of scripture, inspiration and canonicity as well as the mind of various historical figures on these topics. In particular, the following concepts should be mastered:
Masoretic text
- LXX / Letter of Aristeas
- “canonical”
- “deuterocanonical”
- Codices
- Council of Jamnia
- Importance and role of Origen
- Eusebius’ records
- Athanasius’ festal letter
- Jerome’s position
- Augustine’s position
- Council of Trent
Course Content
Periods
Status
