Epistle of Barnabas

About this text

An allegorical interpretation of the Old Testament arguing that Christians — not Jews — are the true heirs of God's covenant. Not actually by the biblical Barnabas.

Significance

Included in the Codex Sinaiticus alongside the New Testament books.

Key excerpts

"Before we believed in God, the habitation of our heart was corrupt and weak, like a temple built with hands."

Scripture cross-references

• 1 Corinthians 3:16 — "You are God's temple" — same concept
• Acts 17:24 — God does not dwell in temples made with hands

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This text is one of 19 in the Early Christian Writings (Non-Canonical) category, and one of 62 across the entire library.