Rediscovered in modern times, these "non-canonical" gospels, epistles, and other pieces were excised from the standard Bible by various church councils in the first four centuries of the Christian era. Here, among other texts, are writings describing the girlhood and betrothal of Mary and her life before Christ's birth; the childhood of Jesus, as described by Peter and Nicodemus; and the appearance of Christ before the gates of Hell, from whence he leads Adam and the saints to Paradise.
Translated from the original languages, with 32 illustrations from ancient paintings and missals, "The Lost Books of the Bible, " helps give depth to the historical characters of Jesus, Mary, the apostles, and other figures of the New Testament. Presented without argument or commentary, these apocryphal texts are fascinating, often provocative, reading.
An essential resource for the study of biblical history and theology, this authentic presentation of the "lost" Scriptures can be enjoyed for its beauty and directness, while also adding to one's understanding of life in Judea during the first century A.D.

Several Gospels and Epistles were considered not suitable to be included in the Canon of Scripture. These texts are fascinating writings, offering theological and social insights. This book brings them together, included are: The Gospel of Peter; The Didache; The Gospel Of The Birth Of Mary; The Gospel Called The Protevangelion; The First Gospel Of The Infancy Of Jesus Christ; The Second, Or St. Thomas's Gospel Of The Infancy Of Jesus Christ; The Gospel Of Nicodemus, Formerly Called The Acts Of Pontius Pilate; The Epistles Of Jesus Christ & Abgarus King Of Edessa; The Epistle Of St. Paul The Apostle To The Laodiceans; The Epistles Of St. Paul The Apostle To Seneca, With Seneca's To Paul; The Acts Of St. Paul And Thecla; The First Epistle Of Clement To The Corinthians; The Second Epistle Of Clement To The Corinthians; The General Epistle Of Barnabas; The Epistle Of Ignatius To The Ephesians; The Epistle Of Ignatius To The Magnesians; The Epistle Of Ignatius To The Trallians; The Epistle Of Ignatius To The Romans; Ignatius To The Philadelphians; Ignatius To The Smyrneans; Ignatius To Polycarp; The Epistle Of Polycarp To The Philippians; The First Part Of The Book Of Hermas Called His Vision; The Second Part Of The Book Of Hermas, Called His Commands; The Third Part Of The Book Of Hermas, Called His Similitudes.