Nuanced
Shepherd of Hermas not fully canonical; sometimes quoted; historical-theological value
The Old Catholic Church does not include the Shepherd of Hermas in the biblical canon, following the broader Catholic principle that only texts with apostolic witness are fully canonical. However, the Shepherd is recognized as a valuable post-apostolic Christian text.
Old Catholic theology may quote the Shepherd for historical and theological insight into early Christian teaching. It is not treated as Scripture but as an important patristic source.
Key Distinctions
- Canonical status:
- not fully canonical
- Historical value:
- Doctrinal authority:
- post-apostolic source
Scripture References
Sources
- Old Catholic theological tradition
- Old Catholic Church doctrinal positions