It is widely accepted in the theological study of the Bible that the collection and selection of the information included in the final compilation was a thorough 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 founding part of the current beliefs and practices of most Christians today. Even more important is the process, culmination, and compilation 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 There are several key historical references that have been influential and these references are imperative to understanding the full context of the canonical books. and their relevance to the Christian faith. In most cases, the opposition of generally accepted truths is challenged and when the opposing truth prevails, it emerges more accepted than it was before. This is also the case for canonical books. The challenges of opposing religions are an important part of their emergence as truth. Therefore, early Christianity experienced opposition from individuals and their supporters, creating a constant need for clarification and solidified statement of beliefs for all Christians. This was among the events that shaped the canonical books and also contributed to the clarification and interpretation of what it really meant to be a Christian and to the consensus on what it meant for an individual seeking to serve the one true and 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 to preserve the teachings of Christ so that he for maintain perpetuity. In essence, the process of bringing these books to fruition represents a struggle to preserve the word of God. It was through this struggle that the early Church solidified the Gospel and laid the spiritual foundation for Christianity to continue reaching the masses in its written truth. Works Cited Brueggemann, W.. "Book Review: Canon And Authority". Interpretation: A Journal of Bible and Theology 32, no. 3 (1978): 326-327. Grant, Robert. “New Literature”. The Biblical World 23, no. 4 (1904): 318. Humphries, Mark. Early Christianity. London: Routledge, 2006. Quispel, Gilles. “Marcion and the text of the New Testament.” Vigiliae Christianae 52, no. 4 (1998): 349. Wilson, R. McL. “Gnostic Origins.” Vigiliae Christianae 9, no. 1 (1955): 193-211.