The Apocryphal Gospels: A Very Short Introduction

• An accessible guide to the history, meaning, and interpretation of the Apocryphal Gospels
• Shows how close analysis of text, contents and context are vital in assessing the value and authenticity of such ancient and valuable texts.
• Discusses the limitations of using the apocryphal gospels to reconstruct an accurate portrait of the historical Jesus - and sets this against the limitations of using the New Testament gospels.

Readership: Non-specialist readers interested in early Christianity, the Bible, and the teachings and life of Jesus; also students of theology or biblical studies.

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

""Very Short" could just as truthfully be described as "Very Informative"... Illuminating and accessible." - Methodist Recorder

"He writes with elegance and clarity, and presents... complex arguments... with simplicity and grace." - John Drane, Baptist Times

"Fascinating reading." - David Sexton, Evening Standard

1: The Apocryphal Gospels - What's in a Name?
2: The 'Gospels' from Nag Hammadi
3: The Infancy Gospels
4: Gospels set during the Earthly Life of Jesus
5: Secret Revelations and Post-Resurrection Dialogues
6: Insights from the Non-Canonical Gospels
Further Reading
Index