Canon, Transmission & Translation

Read the text

Luke 24:44–49

Read the primary passage aloud twice. On the first reading, listen for the burden of the text. On the second, mark repeated words, contrasts, commands, promises, causes, and conclusions.

• Deuteronomy 4:2
• 1 Timothy 5:18
• 2 Peter 3:15–16

Language desk

Words that clarify—not words that perform.

Confirm each gloss by its use in this context. A lexicon offers possibilities; the sentence, paragraph, author, and canon determine what a word is doing here.

Form the doctrine

The theological claim

The church recognized the canon under providence; it did not confer divine authority on it.

Defense drill

Say it under pressure.

Answer ‘Constantine chose the Bible’ with history and biblical categories.

• State the opposing claim in a form its adherent could recognize.
• Open the controlling passage and establish the immediate context.
• Make one clear argument before adding supporting texts.
• Ask a diagnostic question, listen to the answer, and return to Christ and the gospel.

Wednesday assignment

Carry the truth into the week.

Explain textual variants and why they do not erase the recoverability of the text.