While most people think that the twenty-seven books of the New Testament are the only sacred writings of the early Christians; this is not at all the case. A companion volume to Bart Ehrman's Lost Christianities; this book offers an anthology of up-to-date and readable translations of many non-canonical writings from the first centuries after Christ--texts that have been for the most part lost or neglected for almost two millennia.Here is an array of remarkably varied writings from early Christian groups whose visions of Jesus differ dramatically from our contemporary understanding. Readers will find Gospels supposedly authored by the apostle Philip; James the brother of Jesus; Mary Magdalen; and others. There are Acts originally ascribed to John and to Thecla; Paul's female companion; there are Epistles allegedly written by Paul to the Roman philosopher Seneca. And there is an apocalypse by Simon Peter that offers a guided tour of the afterlife; both the glorious ecstasies of the saints and the horrendous torments of the damned; and an Epistle by Titus; a companion of Paul; which argues page after page against sexual love; even within marriage; on the grounds that physical intimacy leads to damnation.In all; the anthology includes fifteen Gospels; five non-canonical Acts of the Apostles; thirteen Epistles; a number of Apocalypses and Secret Books; and several Canon lists. Ehrman has included a general introduction; plus brief introductions to each piece. This important anthology gives readers a vivid picture of the range of beliefs that battled each other in the first centuries of the Christian era.
#63203 in Books Cullen; Jim 2004-06-14Original language:EnglishPDF # 1 5.30 x .60 x 7.90l; .41 #File Name: 0195173252224 pagesOxford University Press USA
Review
0 of 0 people found the following review helpful. High level writing.By Evelyn UyemuraI was hoping to use this as a reading text for my college-level ESL classes; but it's too obscure for that. But for me; it was interesting.2 of 2 people found the following review helpful. A thoughtful readBy RLDPA short and very interesting read. I found many thought provoking and profound insights in this short book that explores the various ways in which Americans have defined the "American Dream" over several centuries. Also a good reminder that we are still defining and pursuing that dream; but getting it right requires work and attention by all.1 of 1 people found the following review helpful. Five StarsBy TiWayne DefilsIt is a very interesting book that's holds many facts that most Americans should be aware of.
