An Apostolic Gospel: The 'Epistula Apostolorum' in Literary Context

The Epistula Apostolorum is an early gospel-like text that recounts a question-and-answer session with the risen Jesus on Easter morning, equipping the eleven apostles for their worldwide mission. It draws selectively from the Gospels of John and Matthew and claims definitive status for its own rendering of the apostolic gospel. This new translation is based on manuscript evidence and provides extensive additional notes to clarify issues of text, translation, and exegesis. The central chapters explore major theological themes such as incarnation, resurrection, and eschatology in the light of related texts within and beyond the New Testament.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 306 pages
Publication date: 03 November 2022
Publisher: Cambridge University Press

The Epistula Apostolorum, often referred to as an early gospel-like text, presents a recounting of a question-and-answer session between the risen Jesus and the eleven apostles on Easter morning. Its primary purpose was to equip these apostles for their worldwide mission, to which they had been called. While the Epistula selectively draws from the Gospels of John and Matthew, it also diverges from its sources at certain points and assertively claims its own interpretation of the apostolic gospel. This book is based on a newly translated version of this significant yet overlooked text, utilizing Coptic, Ethiopic, and Latin manuscript evidence, along with English-language critical apparatuses that note variant readings. Extensive additional notes are provided to clarify text, translation, and exegesis-related issues.

The central chapters of the Epistula delve into profound theological themes, such as incarnation, resurrection, and eschatology, while contextualizing them within and beyond the New Testament. Through this exploration, the reader gains a deeper understanding of these core Christian beliefs and their significance in shaping the faith.

The Epistula Apostolorum serves as a valuable resource for scholars, theologians, and anyone interested in exploring the early Christian literature and its theological implications. Its meticulous translation and comprehensive annotations provide a rich and accessible entry point into this important text, shedding light on its historical context, linguistic challenges, and theological significance.

Weight: 586g
Dimension: 139 x 215 x 25 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781108794619