👉 “Theology is the study of God, meaning, and human existence.”
Authority of Scripture: Canon, Transmission, and Trust
By The Most Reverend Dr. Kelvin Simmons, D.Div.
Certified Bishop and Imam • Universalist Theologian • 2018 Cancer Survivor – Founder & Director, New Hope Theological Society
📌 This is part of the NHTS Foundational Theology Series.
Start here → https://newhopetheologicalsociety.wordpress.com/2026/03/27/what-is-theology-and-why-it-matters-today/
Sacred texts play a central role in many religious traditions, yet few people understand how these texts were formed, preserved, and interpreted.
The authority of scripture rests on three key elements: canon, transmission, and trust.
Canon refers to which writings are recognized as authoritative. This process developed over time as religious communities evaluated texts based on authorship, consistency, and usage.
Transmission refers to how those texts were preserved. Before printing technology, manuscripts were copied by hand, which introduced variations. However, the existence of thousands of manuscripts allows scholars to compare and reconstruct highly reliable versions of the original texts.
Trust is built not on blind acceptance, but on careful study. When examined through historical and textual analysis, many sacred writings demonstrate remarkable consistency and preservation.
Interpretation remains critical. Understanding context, language, and historical background is essential to avoid misreading or oversimplifying complex texts.
At the New Hope Theological Society, we approach scripture with both respect and intellectual honesty. We believe sacred texts should be examined carefully, not blindly accepted or casually dismissed.
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About the Author
The Most Reverend Dr. Kelvin Simmons, D.Div., Certified Bishop and Imam, Universalist Theologian, 2018 Cancer Survivor.
New Hope Thological Society (NHTS) 
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