What are the agrapha in Christian texts?

Definition and Origin of the Term

The word “agrapha” (from the Greek ἄγραφα, meaning “not written”) refers to sayings purportedly spoken by Jesus that do not appear in the four canonical Gospels. These sayings can sometimes be found within the New Testament (but outside the Gospels), in early Christian writings, or even in later traditions passed down through Church Fathers. The concept echoes the biblical reminder that Jesus spoke and did more than what has been recorded in Scripture:

“Jesus did many other things as well. If all of them were written down one by one, I suppose that even the world itself would not have room for the books that would be written.” (John 21:25)

Some of these sayings recorded outside the Gospels have been studied over the centuries to determine their authenticity, origin, and theological value.

Examples in the New Testament

One of the most well-known agrapha appears in the Book of Acts, when the Apostle Paul states:

“Remember the words of the Lord Jesus, how He Himself said, ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.’” (Acts 20:35)

This teaching is not found in any of the four Gospels, yet it is specifically credited to Jesus in the inspired text of Acts. Some researchers consider this a prime example of an “agraphon” (“unwritten” saying) preserved in canonical Scripture.

Other verses, while not quoting an exact statement separate from the Gospels, may suggest that early believers and apostles held onto many teachings spoken by Jesus that were transmitted orally before or alongside the composition of the Gospels. Over time, various attributions were preserved, and some found their way into early Christian documents.

Early Church Recognition and Patristic Sources

The early Church Fathers often referenced or indirectly cited such “unwritten” teachings. For instance, Papias of Hierapolis (early second century) referred to traditions passed down by elders who had direct contact with Jesus’ disciples. Church historian Eusebius (fourth century) recorded quotations from Papias discussing these oral traditions.

In certain non-canonical works, such as the Gospel of Thomas, there are writings that claim to include words of Jesus not recorded by the canonical authors. Scholars, however, evaluate these writings with caution because they originated in circles outside the recognized apostolic tradition. The question of authenticity involves linguistic study, consistency with proven manuscripts, and historical context.

Criteria for Authenticity

Over the centuries, biblical scholars and textual critics have developed criteria to evaluate whether an agraphon reflects an authentic teaching of Jesus:

• Consistency with recognized apostolic doctrine: Teachings must not conflict with the established teachings of Scripture (cf. Galatians 1:8–9).

• Early attestation: The older and more widespread the testimony, the more plausibly it preserves an original saying.

• Alignment with the historical and cultural setting of first-century Judea: Authentic words typically reflect the Jewish context of Jesus’ ministry and the language patterns common to that era.

The relatively brief “It is more blessed to give than to receive” in Acts 20:35 is generally accepted since it is preserved within the inspired writings themselves. Other alleged agrapha found solely in secondary sources or later patristic writings receive more scrutiny.

Purpose and Significance

The inclusion of agrapha in discussions about Jesus’ life and teachings underscores that Christ’s ministry was extensive and not exhaustively chronicled in the Gospels. John’s Gospel alludes to innumerable deeds and words that Jesus performed (John 21:25), highlighting the vast scope of His earthly work.

When genuine, these additional sayings enrich believers’ understanding of Jesus’ character and doctrine. Even so, agrapha do not hold the same canonical weight as the four Gospels or the rest of Scripture—especially if they are preserved only in extra-biblical sources. They can, however, confirm or illuminate certain aspects of Christ’s teaching without contradicting the biblical record.

Manuscript Evidence and Consistency

Throughout history, a large number of New Testament manuscripts—spanning centuries and translated into many languages—demonstrates the care with which scribes preserved the inspired text. Modern textual critics, drawing upon extensive manuscript evidence, note that the canonical Scriptures maintain remarkable consistency. Alleged agrapha within the pages of some manuscripts or early Christian writings can still be measured against this large body of textual tradition.

This careful preservation reflects a longstanding historical process where believers vigorously protected and transmitted Jesus’ teachings. Some scholars cite this as an example of providential oversight, showing how the core truths, as recorded in Scripture, remained intact (cf. Isaiah 40:8).

Comparison with Apocryphal and Gnostic Writings

Certain apocryphal and Gnostic works, such as certain fragments from the Nag Hammadi library, include statements attributed to Jesus that are absent from the canonical Gospels. Scholars evaluate these texts on grounds of historical reliability, doctrinal consistency, and alignment with apostolic witness. Most of these writings emerged in communities distanced from first-century apostolic tradition and often reflect theological views contradictory to the broader biblical witness.

By contrast, the recognized books of the New Testament underwent close apostolic scrutiny or bore apostolic authority from the outset, aligning with the historical accounts retained and affirmed by the early Christian community. Alleged sayings of Jesus that evidently emerged long after the close of the apostolic age are thus treated with caution.

Relevance for Study and Devotion

Carefully examined agrapha can encourage believers and seekers alike to appreciate the breadth of Jesus’ ministry and the faithful transmission of His words. They serve as a reminder that He taught and performed many additional works during His time on earth. The existence of these sayings also fosters deeper respect for the scholars, scribes, and early Christians who worked diligently to preserve and pass down truth for future generations (cf. 2 Timothy 2:2).

In quieter devotion, reflecting on Jesus’ words—even when located outside the four Gospels—can inspire gratitude and moral reflection. For instance, Christ’s emphasis on giving in Acts 20:35 highlights a heart of compassion and generosity that believers can emulate in everyday life.

Conclusion

“Agrapha” are noteworthy elements in Christian tradition. They are supplemental references to Jesus’ words found either within Scripture (outside the Gospels) or in early Christian writings. The best-known agraphon is recorded in Acts 20:35, where Paul cites Jesus’ statement, “It is more blessed to give than to receive.”

Over the centuries, biblical scholars have examined various other potential agrapha. While these can deepen insight into the culture and oral tradition of the early Church, the discerning believer measures them against the authoritative witness of Scripture. Studying agrapha within their historical context ultimately reinforces the cohesive message of the New Testament: that Jesus taught and accomplished far more than the written pages can hold, yet what has been preserved stands firmly consistent and life-giving for all who seek to know Him.