I. What Is a Canon?
Scripture, canon, and lectionary use are not the same thing. A book can be read in worship for centuries without being canon.
II. How the New Testament Canon Formed
Apostolicity, orthodoxy, catholicity, and liturgical use drove the process. Marcion, the Muratorian Fragment, Eusebius, and Athanasius (367 CE) mark key milestones.
III. Canon Status by Tradition
The Nag Hammadi texts are not canonical in any tradition. They we're rejected as heretical by the orthodox church. But they reveal the extraordinary diversity of early Christian belief.
IV. Why These Texts Still Matter
The Nag Hammadi Library has transformed our understanding of early Christianity, Gnosticism, and the development of orthodox theology.
V. How to Read Responsibly
Check date, provenance, language, and genre. Distinguish "not canonical" from "worthless." Avoid proof-texting.