Why are there books mentioned in history that are not in the Bible?
Some historical writings and religious texts are mentioned throughout ancient history but are not included in the Bible. This raises questions about how the Biblical canon was formed and why certain writings were included while others were not. Scripture provides guidance about divine inspiration and authority.
Why people ask this question
Readers sometimes notice references to other writings in Scripture or discover ancient religious books and wonder if important information was removed from the Bible. The Bible teaches that Scripture is defined by divine inspiration rather than by historical existence alone.
The Bible teaches that Scripture is defined by divine inspiration
2 Timothy 3:16–17 (KJV)
All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: That the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works.
2 Peter 1:20–21 (KJV)
Knowing this first, that no prophecy of the scripture is of any private interpretation. For the prophecy came not in old time by the will of man: but holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost.
Scripture sometimes references other historical writings
Numbers 21:14 (KJV)
Wherefore it is said in the book of the wars of the LORD, What he did in the Red sea, and in the brooks of Arnon,
Joshua 10:13 (KJV)
And the sun stood still, and the moon stayed, until the people had avenged themselves upon their enemies. Is not this written in the book of Jasher? So the sun stood still in the midst of heaven, and hasted not to go down about a whole day.
These references show that other historical records existed, but Scripture does not present those writings as divinely inspired.
God guided the recognition of inspired Scripture
Isaiah 40:8 (KJV)
The grass withereth, the flower fadeth: but the word of our God shall stand for ever.
Matthew 24:35 (KJV)
Heaven and earth shall pass away, but my words shall not pass away.
Jesus affirmed the authority of recognized Scripture
Luke 24:44 (KJV)
And he said unto them, These are the words which I spake unto you, while I was yet with you, that all things must be fulfilled, which were written in the law of Moses, and in the prophets, and in the psalms, concerning me.
Key word study (Strong’s Definitions)
Scripture (Greek: γραφή)
Strong’s G1124 — graphē: Sacred writing, inspired Scripture.
Inspiration (Greek: θεόπνευστος)
Strong’s G2315 — theopneustos: God-breathed, divinely inspired.
What this means
- Not every historical or religious writing was inspired by God.
- Scripture was recognized based on divine inspiration and authority.
- The Bible acknowledges other historical documents without elevating them to Scripture.
- God preserved the writings He intended to reveal as His Word.
Gospel connection
Romans 10:17 (KJV)
So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.