It is widely accepted throughout theological study of the Bible that the gathering and selection of information included in the final compilation was an extensive and controversial process. Specifically, the events and movements that influenced the recognition of canonical books. According to Britannica, the canonical books are recognized as the quintessential cornerstone of the New Testament, which also means that they are a fundamental part of the current beliefs and practices of most Christians today. Even more important is the process, culmination, and collection of events that lead to what Christians currently accept as the Word of God. There are several key historical references that have been influential, and these references are indispensable to understanding the full context of the books canons. and their relevance to the Christian faith. In most cases, the opposition of generally accepted truths is questioned and when the opposing truth turns out to be the winner, it emerges more accepted than it was before. This also applies to canonical books. The challenges of opposing faiths are an important part of their emergence as truth. Thus, early Christianity experienced opposition from individuals and their followers, thus creating a devout need for clarification and a consolidated statement of beliefs for all Christians. This was part of the events that shaped the canonical books and also contributed to the clarification and interpretation of what it actually meant to be a Christian and the consensus on what it meant for an individual seeking to serve the one true living God (Brueggeman 1978). In an analysis of the most prolific influences of the canonical books, the Gnostics, the ideals of...... middle of paper ......the canonical book represents an act of preservation of the teachings of Christ so that it can maintain perpetuity. Essentially, the process that leads to the conclusion of these books represents a struggle to preserve the word of God. It is within this struggle that the early Church consolidates the Gospel and lays the spiritual foundation for Christianity to continue to reach the masses in its written truth. Works Cited Brueggemann, W.. “Book Review: Canon and Authority.” Interpretation: Journal of Bible and Theology 32, n. 3 (1978): 326-327. Grant, Robert . "New literature". The Biblical World 23, n. 4 (1904): 318.Humphries, Mark. Primitive Christianity. London: Routledge, 2006.Quispel, Gilles. "Marcion and the Text of the New Testament". Vigiliae Christianae 52, n. 4 (1998): 349.Wilson, R. McL.. “Gnostic Origins.” Vigiliae Christianae 9, n. 1 (1955): 193-211.