Christian Scriptures Critical Thinking Example

Significance of the Book of Enoch

Enoch and Genesis
Enoch and Jude
Reasons why it could be considered canonical
Non-Canonical Writing
One of the non-canonical writings that has been debated for some time about its worthiness in the scriptures is the Book of Enoch (Johnson 525). This is a favorite non-canonical book because it appears the New Testament writers were aware of its presence and it specifically influenced the letter of Jude. The Book of Enoch is a Jewish religious work that has been described as being part of Enoch tradition. This is the Enoch who has been attributed with being the great-grandfather of Noah. The book has been subjected to much scrutiny regarding its authority and no current Christian group recognizes its authority (“The Book of Enoch”). There are several instances throughout the book which appear to promote false doctrines, which cast doubt upon its divine authorship. There are clear discrepancies between it and some of the history taught in the Old Testament which is why it is not considered part of the Bible.
The Book of Enoch describes the Watchers and the Nephilim, as well as many visions and dreams by Enoch himself. The Nephilim are mentioned in Genesis, so this is another instance where the Book of Enoch is referenced. The Watchers are described in the book as the angels who fathered the Nephilim, referenced in Genesis 6 (DeSilva 845). The book of Jude also makes reference to this book as well in verses 14-15. Jude writes, “Enoch, the seventh from Adam, prophesied about them: See the Lord is coming with thousands of his holy ones to judge everyone, and to convict all of them all the ungodly acts they have committed (Jude 14-15 NIV).” Because this book is referenced within the canonical text, there does seem to be a good case for it to be included within the scriptures. If the Biblical writers were inspired by God to use this text, there must be something special about it and its content. It has many similarities and messages as the book of Jude, so it could be considered on the same level as Jude. \

Works Cited

Johnson, Luke Timothy. The Writings of the New Testament: An Interpretation. Pbk. ed. Philadelphia: Fortress, 2010. Print.
Senior, Donald. The Catholic Study Bible. New York: Oxford UP, 1990. Print.
DeSilva, David. An Introduction to the New Testament Contexts, Methods, and Ministry Formation. Downers Grove, IL: InterVaristy Press, 2004.
"The Book of Enoch." Web. 14 Apr. 2015. <http://www.sacred-texts.com/bib/boe/index.htm>.