Not canonical; patristic literature valued for history but not Scripture
Christadelphians deny canonical status to the Shepherd of Hermas. While the work is acknowledged as patristic literature valuable for understanding early Church history and thought, it is not treated as Scripture or given doctrinal authority. Christadelphian emphasis on the biblical canon and apostolic Scripture as the sole source of binding doctrine means that second-century writings, no matter how valuable historically, are not elevated to scriptural status.
The Shepherd of Hermas may be read for spiritual reflection or historical understanding, but it does not carry authority in Christadelphian doctrinal debate or practice. The focus remains on the Hebrew Bible and New Testament as the authoritative written revelation.
Key Distinctions
- Canonical status:
- Historical value:
- acknowledged for patristic studies
- Doctrinal authority:
- no doctrinal authority
Scripture References
- No canonical status
Sources
- Christadelphian Statement of Faith on canon