The Acts of John is an ancient writing that claims to describe the ministry and experiences of the apostle John after the time of the New Testament. It is often grouped with other apocryphal writings such as the Acts of Peter, Acts of Paul, and Acts of Thomas. While it may appear at first glance to be a valuable historical or spiritual resource, it is important to evaluate it carefully in light of Scripture.
The Bible warns believers to test all teachings:
“Beloved, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits, whether they are of God” (1 John 4:1, NKJV).
This principle applies especially when considering writings outside the Bible.
What Is the Acts of John?
The Acts of John is a second-century document, meaning it was written well after the time of the apostles. It is not part of the New Testament and is considered apocryphal, meaning it is not inspired Scripture.
The book contains stories about the apostle John’s missionary work, miracles, and teachings. It also includes unusual and symbolic narratives, some of which differ significantly from the teachings of the Bible.
Unlike the canonical Book of Acts in the New Testament, which was written by Luke under divine inspiration, the Acts of John does not claim apostolic authority in a reliable or verifiable way.
Historical Background
The Acts of John likely originated in the late second century (around A.D. 150–200). This places it at least several decades after the death of the apostle John.
Early church leaders rejected this book as unreliable. It was not included in the biblical canon because:
- Its authorship is uncertain
- Its teachings contain doctrinal errors
- It was not widely accepted by the early Christian church
The Bible itself gives a standard for inspired writings:
“All Scripture is given by inspiration of God” (2 Timothy 3:16, NKJV).
The Acts of John does not meet this standard.
Key Themes in the Acts of John
1. Miracles and Legendary Stories
The book includes dramatic and sometimes fantastical stories about John performing miracles. While miracles are present in the Bible, the accounts in the Acts of John often appear exaggerated or symbolic in ways that differ from the straightforward style of Scripture.
2. Docetic Teachings About Jesus
One of the most serious concerns about the Acts of John is its connection to Docetism, an early heresy.
Docetism taught that Jesus did not truly come in the flesh but only appeared to have a physical body. This contradicts clear biblical teaching:
“And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us” (John 1:14, NKJV).
“For many deceivers have gone out into the world who do not confess Jesus Christ as coming in the flesh” (2 John 7, NKJV).
Because the Acts of John reflects these ideas in some passages, it is considered doctrinally unsound.
3. Mystical and Symbolic Elements
The book includes mystical teachings and symbolic visions that are not consistent with the clear and grounded message of Scripture. While the Bible does contain symbolism, it always aligns with truth and does not contradict core doctrines.
Why Is the Acts of John Not in the Bible?
The process of recognizing the books of the Bible (the canon) was guided by several key principles:
Apostolic Origin
Books included in the New Testament were written by apostles or their close associates. The Acts of John was written long after John’s lifetime.
Doctrinal Consistency
Scripture is unified in its teaching. Any writing that contradicts the gospel message is rejected.
“Even if we, or an angel from heaven, preach any other gospel to you… let him be accursed” (Galatians 1:8, NKJV).
The Acts of John contains teachings that conflict with the biblical gospel.
Widespread Acceptance
The early church widely recognized and used the books of the New Testament. The Acts of John was never accepted as authoritative Scripture.
Comparing the Acts of John with the Bible
The New Testament presents a clear and consistent picture of the apostle John:
- A witness to Jesus’ life and ministry
- A teacher of truth and love
- The author of the Gospel of John, three epistles, and Revelation
In contrast, the Acts of John portrays events and teachings that lack historical reliability and doctrinal soundness.
The Bible emphasizes truth rooted in reality:
“That which we have seen and heard we declare to you” (1 John 1:3, NKJV).
The Acts of John does not meet this standard.
The Danger of Apocryphal Writings
Reading non-biblical texts without discernment can lead to confusion. The Bible warns against adding to God’s Word:
“Do not add to His words, lest He rebuke you, and you be found a liar” (Proverbs 30:6, NKJV).
Apocryphal books like the Acts of John may contain imaginative stories, but they should not be treated as authoritative or inspired.
Should Christians Read the Acts of John?
While it may be studied for historical curiosity, it should never be used as a source of doctrine. Believers must always prioritize Scripture as the final authority.
“Your word is truth” (John 17:17, NKJV).
If such writings are read, they should be evaluated carefully and compared with the Bible.
The Sufficiency of Scripture
God has already provided everything necessary for faith and salvation through His Word:
“…that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work” (2 Timothy 3:17, NKJV).
There is no need to rely on extra-biblical writings to understand God’s will.
Conclusion
The Acts of John is an ancient apocryphal writing that claims to describe the apostle John’s ministry. However, it is not part of the Bible and is not considered inspired Scripture.
Its late authorship, questionable teachings, and lack of acceptance by the early church all demonstrate that it does not belong in the biblical canon. Most importantly, some of its ideas contradict the clear teaching of the Bible, particularly regarding the nature of Christ.
Believers are called to stand firmly on God’s Word:
“Forever, O Lord, Your word is settled in heaven” (Psalm 119:89, NKJV).
Rather than seeking truth in uncertain sources, Christians should rely on the Bible, which alone is inspired, trustworthy, and sufficient for all matters of faith and life.
Comments
Be the first to comment on this article — share your thoughts above and start the discussion.