Why Isn’t the Book of Enoch in the Bible? What Believers Should Know About Fallen Angels and Hidden History
The Book of Enoch has stirred curiosity, controversy, and deep questions for centuries. Why was it left out of the Bible? What does it reveal about fallen angels, the Nephilim, and humanity’s ancient past? In this episode of The Radiant Mission Podcast, we explore the significance of the Book of Enoch, its content, and why it still matters for believers today.
What Is the Book of Enoch?
The Book of Enoch is an ancient Jewish text attributed to Enoch, the great-grandfather of Noah. Although not included in the traditional Bible canon, it was once widely read and even referenced in the New Testament. Jude 1:14–15 quotes directly from Enoch, giving it an unmistakable tie to biblical history.
So why is this book no longer considered part of Scripture?
Why Was the Book of Enoch Excluded?
The Book of Enoch didn’t meet the criteria established by early church leaders when forming the canon. These criteria included apostolic authorship, theological consistency, and widespread use among early churches. Since Enoch lived long before the apostles and some of its content appears symbolic or apocalyptic, church leaders ultimately excluded it.
However, the Book of Enoch was included in the Ethiopian Orthodox Bible and revered by early Christians. In fact, its influence is undeniable—it shaped Jewish thought during the Second Temple period and even early Christian eschatology.
Who Wrote the Bible?
Understanding who wrote the Bible helps clarify why Enoch didn’t make the cut. The Old Testament was written by prophets and leaders inspired by God: Moses, David, Isaiah, and others. The New Testament was authored by the apostles or their direct companions—people who walked with Jesus or were taught by those who did.
The Book of Enoch, while ancient, doesn’t align with this apostolic thread of authority. Its exclusion wasn’t necessarily due to heresy—but due to concerns about authorship, symbolism, and acceptance across early Christian communities.
What Does the Book of Enoch Actually Say?
The Book of Enoch dives deep into supernatural themes: angels who left heaven, giants (Nephilim) born from human-angel unions, and God’s judgment on wickedness. It even names some of these fallen angels and details their sins—like Azazel, who taught humans warfare and weaponry, and Semjaza, who led the rebellion of watchers and taught sorcery and enchantments.
These stories help explain Genesis 6:1–4, where the “sons of God” took human wives and produced giants. They also paint a more detailed picture of how evil spread before the flood.
For believers, these insights help bridge gaps in Scripture and offer context for the spiritual warfare we face today.
Should Christians Read the Book of Enoch?
The Book of Enoch is not part of the Bible, but that doesn’t mean it has no value. Like historical records or ancient writings, it can help believers better understand the spiritual realm and biblical history. When approached with discernment, Enoch can deepen your understanding of topics like:
- The fall of the angels
- The origin of giants
- God’s judgment and righteousness
- End-times imagery and spiritual warfare
While we shouldn’t treat it as equal to Scripture, reading it can build knowledge and stir a deeper awe for God’s justice and sovereignty.
How Enoch Connects to Today
Much of what the Book of Enoch describes—fallen angels, secret knowledge, corruption on the earth—feels eerily relevant. Could the increasing moral decay we see today have spiritual roots that date back to the rebellion of these heavenly beings?
Many scholars and believers think so. In a time when evil is normalized and deception is widespread, revisiting ancient truths reminds us how long this spiritual battle has raged.
Enoch also highlights God’s holiness and His plan to bring justice. That message resonates deeply today as we long for truth and redemption in a dark world.
Bible Verses Mentioned:
Genesis 6:1–4
Jude 1:14–15
Watch or Listen
The Radiant Mission Podcast | Episode 146
Host: Rebecca Twomey @theradiantmission
Thank you for listening to The Radiant Mission podcast! We are on a mission to encourage and inspire you on your walk with Christ and as you journey through life.
Why was the Book of Enoch left out of the Bible? Discover its mysteries, fallen angels, and how it connects to Scripture and the Nephilim in episode 146 of The Radiant Mission Podcast.
Resources:
➡ Follow The Radiant Mission on Instagram
➡ Follow The Radiant Mission on Facebook
➡ Subscribe to The Radiant Mission on YouTube
➡ Support the Podcast
➡ Subscribe to Receive Emails
Thank You for Joining Us!
🎧 Listen on Buzzsprout
🎧 Apple Podcasts
🎧 Spotify
🎧 More Listening Options
