- 1. The New Testament Canon: Formation and Authority refers to the complex historical processes and theological debates that led to the establishment of the New Testament as an authoritative collection of texts within the Christian faith. The formation of the New Testament canon was not an instantaneous decision but rather a gradual process that took place over several centuries, starting in the first century AD and culminating in the late fourth century. Early Christians produced and circulated various writings, including the letters of Paul, the Gospels, and other epistles, each of which was valued for its theological insight and apostolic connection. As diverse Christian communities flourished, the need arose to delineate which of these texts were to be regarded as sacred scripture. Influential figures, such as Irenaeus and Athanasius, contributed to this dialogue by advocating for certain texts based on their apostolic origin and widespread usage among churches. The Council of Carthage in 397 AD is often cited as a significant moment in the formal recognition of the 27 books of the New Testament as canon, solidifying their authority in the life of the church. Questions of authenticity, relevance, and theological consistency were central to discussions about which writings should be included, leading to the exclusion of others, deemed apocryphal or inconsistent with orthodox teaching. The resultant New Testament canon serves not only as a foundational text for Christian doctrine and ethics but also as a testament to the early church's efforts to preserve and articulate its faith in the face of diverse interpretations and challenges.
What is the New Testament canon?
A) A historical document of early church leaders.
B) A collection of Christian writings accepted as authoritative scripture.
C) A list of all early Christian writings.
D) A compilation of Jewish scriptures.
- 2. How many books are in the New Testament?
A) 66
B) 27
C) 39
D) 24
- 3. What criteria were used to determine the New Testament books?
A) They must be written in Greek.
B) Only books with miracles.
C) Popularity and size.
D) Apostolicity, orthodoxy, and widespread usage.
- 4. What was the main language of the New Testament?
A) Greek.
B) Aramaic.
C) Latin.
D) Hebrew.
- 5. Who is traditionally believed to have written the most books in the New Testament?
A) John.
B) Luke.
C) Peter.
D) Paul.
- 6. What does the term 'Gospel' mean?
A) Teachings of prophets.
B) Ancient story.
C) Good news.
D) Sacred text.
- 7. What book follows the Gospels in the New Testament?
A) Revelation.
B) Psalms.
C) Epistles.
D) Acts of the Apostles.
- 8. Which Gospel emphasizes Jesus' divinity?
A) The Gospel of Mark.
B) The Gospel of Matthew.
C) The Gospel of Luke.
D) The Gospel of John.
- 9. The Book of Acts is a sequel to which Gospel?
A) John
B) Luke
C) Mark
D) Matthew
- 10. The New Testament canon was fully established by which century?
A) 5th century AD
B) 1st century AD
C) 3rd century AD
D) 4th century AD
- 11. Which apostle is credited with receiving the 'keys to the kingdom'?
A) John.
B) Peter.
C) James.
D) Paul.
- 12. How were the New Testament texts originally transmitted?
A) By public recitations only.
B) By digital formats.
C) By printed books.
D) By oral tradition and handwritten copies.
- 13. What was the major dispute at the Council of Jerusalem?
A) The nature of Christ.
B) The number of books in the New Testament.
C) The role of women in the church.
D) Whether Gentiles must follow Jewish laws.
- 14. Which apostle is traditionally believed to have written the Book of Revelation?
A) John.
B) Peter.
C) Paul.
D) Matthew.
- 15. Which New Testament epistle is known for its focus on love?
A) The Letter to the Ephesians
B) 1 Corinthians 13
C) The Letter of Jude
D) The Letter to the Romans
- 16. The Sermon on the Mount is found in which Gospel?
A) Matthew
B) Mark
C) Luke
D) John
- 17. Which church father played a crucial role in establishing the New Testament canon?
A) Athanasius
B) Augustine
C) Irenaeus
D) Tertullian
- 18. In which book does the 'fruit of the Spirit' appear?
A) Colossians.
B) Philippians.
C) Ephesians.
D) Galatians.
- 19. Who was the first Christian martyr documented in the New Testament?
A) Peter.
B) James.
C) Stephen.
D) Paul.
- 20. The term 'canon' comes from a Greek word meaning what?
A) Sacred or holy
B) Rule or measuring rod
C) Book or writing
D) History or record
- 21. Which New Testament book focuses heavily on faith and works?
A) Philippians
B) Galatians
C) James
D) Romans
- 22. Which of the following books is not considered an epistle?
A) Revelation.
B) Philippians.
C) Ephesians.
D) Romans.
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