An Inquiry Concerning the Origin of Christianity

A deconstruction of the Bible to separate the historical character of Jesus from later supernatural myths, first published in 1838.

Charles Christian Hennell (Author)

9781108019644, Cambridge University Press

Paperback / softback, published 19 August 2010

488 pages
21.6 x 14 x 2.8 cm, 0.62 kg

Charles Christian Hennell (1809–1850) was a theological writer best known for his association with and influence on George Eliot. First published in 1838, this volume contains Hennell's deconstruction of the Bible to separate the historical character of Jesus from later myths which became incorporated into Christianity. Hennell examines the Gospels and other parts of the New and Old Testaments which are concerned with Jesus, demonstrating that all miraculous events can be explained without reference to supernatural intervention and emphasising the importance of the historical context. Despite Hennell's unorthodox conclusions this volume is not intended as an attack on Christianity, which Hennell praises as the 'purest form of natural religion'. This volume is described as his most important theological work and is one of the Biblical criticisms which inspired George Eliot to question her faith in the 1840's. Hennell's 1839 work Christian Theism is also included in this volume.

Preface
1. Historical sketch, from the Babylonish captivity to the death of Jesus
2. Historical sketch, continued to the end of the first century
3. On the date and credibility of the Gospel of Matthew
4. On the date and credibility of the Gospel of Mark
5. On the date and credibility of the Gospel of Luke
6. On the date and credibility of the Gospel of John
7. Examination of the accounts of the Resurrection and Ascension
8. Remarks on the other miracles in the four Gospels
9. General objections to the miracles of Jesus
10. Remarks on the miracles in the Acts of the Apostles
11. On the evidence afforded to the miracles by the apostolic writings
12. On the prophecies
13. On the parts of Isaiah supposed to relate to Christ
14. On the book of Daniel
15. Whether Jesus foretold his own death and resurrection
16. On the character, views, and doctrines of Jesus
17. Comparison of the precepts of Jesus with the Jewish writings
18. Concluding reflections
Christian theism.

Subject Areas: Church history [HRCC2]