Canon and the Ancient Christian Bible — Canon Development
The Muratorian Canon
Late second century
The Muratorian fragment lists most New Testament books and distinguishes received apostolic writings from rejected works.
Full Account
The document's damaged beginning likely followed discussion of Matthew and Mark; it clearly names Luke and John, Acts, thirteen Pauline letters, Jude, two letters of John, and Revelation. It rejects several writings and comments on the Shepherd of Hermas as useful but too recent for public scriptural reading.
Its omissions and textual difficulties require caution, but it shows that Christians were evaluating books by apostolic connection, antiquity, doctrine, and church use.
Historical Significance
The fragment is early evidence for a substantial New Testament collection and for distinctions between Scripture and respected Christian literature.
People, Places and Sources
- Key people: Unknown compiler; the apostles; Hermas
- Key places: Possibly Rome; western church
- Languages: Greek, Latin