Question: Please explain "agrapha." Has this subject any spiri­tual importance?

Answer: The Oxford Dictionary states that "Agrapha" is a plural noun describing "sayings of Christ not recorded in the gospels." The word means "unwritten things."

In considering the spiritual value of Agrapha, there are impor­tant truths to be underlined. Several sources may be noted of unwritten things in the gospels, spoken by Christ which are found in the New Testament outside of the gospel. Three of these are authenticated by Paul (Acts 20:35, 1 Cor. 11:26; 1 Thess. 4:15).

To answer the question whether the subject of "agrapha" has spiritual significance, we believe there is important truth indi­cated. The entire collection of Agrapha from all sources is limited:

Three are found in the sayings and writings of Paul (Acts 20:35, 1 Cor. 11:24; 1 Thess. 4:15); the recall of Peter (Acts 11:16) and James (James 1:12).

When these are placed together their spiritual value is evident, covering great teachings of the Lord Jesus.

1. The Lord’s Supper. The Lord’s request "in remembrance of me" (1 Cor 11:24). His words to Paul were not written until many years later when Luke’s gospel was complete.

2. The Lord’s coming (1 Thess. 4:15). Given directly to Paul.

3. The Lord’s precept (Acts 20:35). "It is more blessed to give than to receive."

4. The word’s recalled by Peter not recorded until Acts 1:5, but known to Peter (Acts 11:16). Here we have the coming of the Holy Spirit indicated.

5. The promised crown. James heard the Lord make the prom­ise (James 1:12). No written record in the gospels is given.

These indicate the interest and importance of "agrapha."