
The Sean McDowell Show
Sean McDowellThe Real Story Behind the Protestant Bible
November 14, 2025 ● 64 minShare this episode
When did Christians first recognize the biblical canon and how do we know we have the right books? Today, we have New Testament scholar Dr. Michael Kruger (The Question of Canon) to unpack what “canon” means, why recognition began far earlier than the 4th century, and how both intrinsic factors (covenant, apostles) and extrinsic factors (heretics like Marcion) shaped the process. We also address why Protestants, Catholics, and Orthodox differ, and what to make of texts like The Shepherd of Hermas and the Gospel of Thomas.
READ: The Question of Canon: Challenging The Status Quo In The New Testament Debate by Michael J. Kruger (https://amzn.to/4nPtbE0)
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Today's Devotional
A Prayer for a Summer of Kindness - Your Daily Prayer - July 1
This summer, may we all choose to stand up for what is right, to speak up against bullies, and to extend kindness to all people.
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