Hi, Musket -the "canon" of Scripture was more-or-less set by general acceptance by 150 AD, and officially accepted in the 300s. Many people here have questioned why other writings such as the gnostic gospels were not accepted into scripture. Most of the gnostic writings were newer, maybe 150-200 AD. The decision was based mostly on what people used among the religious writings of the time. There doesn't seem to be any evidence of a plan for what should and should not be accepted as Scripture.
There's lots of embarrassing stuff left in the bible, so I don't think that "bad stuff" was intentionally edited out. Some of the Hebrew
Scriptures, particularly Genesis, show signs of heavy editing. As centuries passed, people added their own stories and customs. I think it might be most accurate to say that the Scriptures went through the
Folk Process, not through heavy, intentional editing.

Steve Shaw, despite your preconceived notions about what and how I believe, my faith really doesn't work that way - and it certainly doesn't impair my ability to study the science of things. My faith give me joy - that's why it's part of my life. If it doesn't work for you, that's fine - but let me have my joy, unmolested.

-Joe-