The Apocrypha

by David A. deSilva

Using a thematic approach, David A. deSilva gives a brief introduction and summary of the largely unknown and unappreciated books of the Apocrypha. He also gives an overview to the social and cultural context of the world of the Apocrypha and early Christianity. From there, the book highlights the Apocrypha’s relevance and impact on Christian practices, spiritual formation, and on Early Church doctrine and theology.

Genres: Biblical Studies, Theology

170 pages, Hardcover

First published November 1, 2012

About the author

David A. deSilva (PhD, Emory University) is Trustees’ Distinguished Professor of New Testament and Greek at Ashland Theological Seminary in Ashland, Ohio. His numerous books include Introducing the Apocrypha and An Introduction to the New Testament: Contexts, Methods, and Ministry Formation.

Reviews

[Adam Ross · Rating 3 out of 5]

A generally helpful introduction to the Apocrypha with some interesting insights for why the study of the Apocrypha is important for the Church today. deSilva takes the Apocrypha to be a lesser authority than the canonical Scriptures, but argues that it is extremely helpful for understanding both the NT (though I disagree that Paul or Jesus had any apocryphal traditions *in mind* when they spoke or wrote). His case is well made, and I will have to pay more attention to this body of works in the future.