New Apostolic Church
Old Catholic Church
Denies

Not canonical; valued as early Christian literature but not Scripture

Thomas Christians do not include the Shepherd of Hermas in the biblical canon, though they recognize its historical and spiritual value. The Eastern Orthodox tradition, which influences the Thomas Christians, distinguishes between canonical Scripture and valuable patristic writings.

Key Distinctions

Canonical status:
not canonical
Historical value:
historically and spiritually significant
Doctrinal authority:

Scripture References

Sources

  • Eastern Orthodox canon
  • Thomas Christian tradition