First published 2009
Biblical scholars face intense debate when the Gospel of Judas surfaces after centuries. Elaine Pagels and her colleague tackle the explosive questions this ancient text raises. How could any Christian writer portray Judas the betrayer as Jesus's chosen disciple? What drove the gospel's author to express such fury toward the other apostles? The scholars dig into the text's radical vision of God itself. Their investigation reveals Christianity's chaotic early years, when competing groups fought over fundamental beliefs. The book examines three explosive topics that divided ancient Christians and still provoke arguments today: what God's true nature might be, why Jesus had to die, and whether martyrs truly gain salvation through suffering. These same questions that ignited controversy nineteen centuries ago continue to challenge believers and skeptics alike.
Genres: history, religion, christianity, ancient-history, academic
Vibes: intimate, suspenseful, thought-provoking
Tropes: academic-investigation, religious-debate
Setting: Christianity
Period: 1st Century, 21st Century
208 pages · Paperback · Editorial Kairos