This book provides information from Church history concerning the recognition of the canonical status of the several books of the New Testament. Canonization was a long and gradual process of sifting among scores of gospels, epistles, and other books that enjoyed local and temporary authority - some of which have only recently come to light among the discoveries of Nag Hammadi. After discussing the external pressures that led to the fixing of
the limits of the canon, the author gives sustained attention to Patristic evidence that bears on the development of the canon not only in the West but also among the Eastern Churches, including the
Syrian, Armenian, Georgian, Coptic, and Ethiopian. Besides considering differences as to the sequence of the books in the New Testament, Dr Metzger takes up such questions as which form of text is to be regarded as canonical; whether the canon is open or closed; to what extent a canon should be sought within the canon; and whether the canon is a collection of authoritative books or an authoritative collection of books.
Industry Reviews
`He combines the sureness of touch and the courtesy for which he is renowned with an awesome breadth of learning deeply assimilated. Master of his evidence, he leaves no loose ends and never needs to overstate his case, but allows the true situation to speak for itself ... In Dr Metzger's hands it becomes not only the catalyst for a fascinating tapestry of church history, but also the occasion of important theological reflection.'
The Tablet
`distinguished by its author's sober judgement and legendary commmand of secondary literature ... The book will be valuable ... as an updating of earlier historical treatments of the New Testament Canon.'
The Expository Times
`Metzger's opinions throughout are judicious and moderate. ... The richly detailed factual information carefully organized here, and the bibliographical footnotes will make this a volume of continuing benefit and lasting value.'
J.K. Elliott, Journal of Theological Studies, Vol 39, 2, 1988
`Concerning each topic, the author gives us a clear formulation of the question and a sober and balanced treatment, avoiding extremes which are being defended even in recent publications. As a conclusion of the trilogy ... M.'s book on the canon is a valuable contribution to a ever-open discussion.'
Joël Delobel, Louvain Studies
`as a history of canon formation, this gracefully written and thoroughly documented book will surely become our classic reference work.'
Pheme Perkins, Boston College. The Catholic Biblical Quarterly
`This is unquestionably the best book on the subject available today and one of the best of all times. The debt of both the scholarly world and the church to Bruce M. Metzger is exceedingly great. The reviewer will always be grateful for the privilege of studying under him.'
James A. Brooks, Southwestern Journal of Theology
`Throughout the book a balanced, restrained judgment is exercised.'
B.T. Viviano, O.P., Revue Biblique
`splendid book ... The author is so well-read, both in ancient and in modern literature, that he constantly adds to the reader's knowledge.'
Roger Beckwith, Churchman
`Metzger's discussions are thorough and fair, keeping basically to what seems to be a legitimate reading of the historical evidence.'
Interpretation, A Journal of Bible & Theology
`An unusual aspect of Metzger's book is that ... Metzger has two chapters of literature on canon, the most complete bibliography on the canon I know.'
Albert C. Sundberg, Garrett-Evangelical Theological Seminary, Journal of American Academy of Religion
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