The Ancients The Apocryphal Gospels
23 snips
Jun 29, 2025 
Catherine Nixey, a renowned journalist and author specializing in early Christian history, uncovers the vibrant tapestries woven by lesser-known apocryphal gospels. She unpacks tales of the Infancy Gospel of James, where skepticism leads to miraculous consequences for a midwife, and the Infancy Gospel of Thomas, depicting a young Jesus with astonishing powers. Nixey reveals how these texts challenge traditional narratives, showcasing the radical diversity and mystical beliefs of early Christianity, including alternative views on the virgin birth and depictions of the Antichrist.
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Diversity of Early Christianities
- Early Christianity was diverse, with many different groups having unique beliefs and practices.
- It is more accurate to say there were "early Christianities" rather than one unified early Christianity.
Infancy Gospel of James Birth Story
- The Infancy Gospel of James describes Mary giving birth in a cave with Joseph's skepticism and a midwife present.
- A skeptical woman tests Mary's virginity by thrusting her hand in, which is immediately burnt off, proving the virgin birth.
Mary's Expanded Role in Apocrypha
- Apocryphal gospels give much more detail about Mary and fill in gaps left by the canonical Gospels.
- These texts satisfy the curiosity about backstories and puzzling biblical references, showing the hunger for stories about Mary and others.
