An Apostolic Gospel
The 'Epistula Apostolorum' in Literary Context

Built around a new translation of a neglected text, this book offers new perspectives on early gospel literature.

Francis Watson (Author)

9781108794619, Cambridge University Press

Paperback / softback, published 3 November 2022

306 pages
21.6 x 13.8 x 0.8 cm, 0.38 kg

The so-called Epistula Apostolorum is an early gospel-like text in which the eleven apostles recount a question-and-answer session with the risen Jesus on Easter morning, intended to equip them for the worldwide mission to which they are now called. The Epistula draws selectively from the Gospels of John and Matthew, while disagreeing with its sources at a number of points and claiming definitive status for its own rendering of the apostolic gospel. This book is based on a new translation of this important but neglected text, drawing on the Coptic, Ethiopic, and Latin manuscript evidence and with variants noted in an English-language critical apparatus. Extensive additional notes are provided 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.

Acknowledgements, Introduction
Part I. Recovering the epistula: 1. An Ambiguous Legacy: the Epistula Apostolorum and its Editors
2. Translation
Part II. Themes: 3. The miracle sequence
4. Resurrection and Eschatologies
5. Narratives of Incarnation
6. Paul and the Apostolic Mission
7. Vindicating Divine Justice
Part III. Additional notes on text and translation: Appendix: Testament in Galilee, chapters 1–11
Bibliography.

Subject Areas: Biblical studies & exegesis [HRCG], Literary studies: classical, early & medieval [DSBB]