Furthermore, whether talking with a Jehovah's Witness, a liberal
theologian, or a New Ager, Christians are very likely to run
into questions concerning the extent, adequacy, and accuracy of
the Bible as God's revealed Word. In this essay, therefore, we
will consider the development of the doctrine of the Scriptures
in the Church Age. Just how did the church decide on the books
for inclusion in the New Testament? This discussion will include
both how the Canon was established and the various ways
theologians have viewed the Bible since the Canon was
established. The period immediately following the passing of the
Apostles is known as the period of the Church Fathers. Many of
these men walked with the Apostles and were taught directly by
them. Polycarp and Papias, for instance, are considered to have
been disciples of the Apostle John. Doctrinal authority during
this period rested on two sources, the Old Testament (O.T.) and
the notion of Apostolic succession, being able to trace a direct
association to one of