The Apocryphal Gospels A Very Short Introduction

by Foster, Paul

• ISBN13: 9780199236947
• ISBN10: 0199236941
• Format: Paperback
• Copyright: 2009-04-25
• Publisher: Oxford University Press

Summary

This Very Short Introduction offers a clear, accessible, and concise account of the apocryphal gospels--exploring their origins, their discovery, and discussing how the various texts have been interpreted both within and outside the Church. Looking at texts ranging from the Gospels from Nag Hammadi to the Dialogues with the Risen Savior, Paul Foster shows how the apocryphal gospels reflect the diversity that existed within early Christianity, and considers the extent to which they can be used to reconstruct an accurate portrait of the historical Jesus. Foster demonstrates how close analysis of text, contents, and context are vital in assessing the value and authenticity of such ancient documents. Including discussions of controversies and case-studies such as the alleged hoax surrounding the discovery of Secret Mark, Foster concludes that the non-canonical texts, considered in the correct context, can help us reach a more complete understanding of the multi-faceted nature of early Christianity.

Author Biography

Paul Foster is Lecturer in New Testament Literature, Language and Theology, University of Edinburgh.

Table of Contents

The Apocryphal Gospels - What's in a Name?

The 'Gospels' from Nag Hammadi

The Infancy Gospels

Gospels set during the Earthly Life of Jesus

Secret Revelations and Post-Resurrection Dialogues

Insights from the Non-Canonical Gospels

Further Reading

Index

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