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Biblical criticism & interpretation (general), History
The 2nd revised, extended, enriched edition of John Henson's most provocative, most controversial, and some have said most subversive book.
From the very beginning Christians have sought alternative authorities apostolic authority, the Church Fathers, Catholicism, Scripture, Calvinism, scholarship, charismatic ecstasy. When Luke wrote his volume Two (Acts), the sequel to his Gospel, was he, like Paul, aware of the danger? Did he write simply to extol the exploits of the first Christians and prepare their leaders for canonization? This book suggests that Luke may have had other agendas. The unique opportunity his researches gave him to compare the ministry of Jesus with that of his followers led him to record some events that show the apostles in a bad light. John Henson believes that when Luke sets down these events his disapproval may be detected. In this second edition John Henson also shows how Luke champions an alternative team of apostles.
This is an unusual approach to the study of Acts. The aim is not to debunk the apostles but to encourage Christians to seek over and over again the mind of Jesus.
Click on the circles below to see more reviews
...a fascinating read and there is plenty here to engage and stimulate the intelligent reader. ~ Becky Lowe, Movement, Magazine of the student Christian Movement
A very personal work of creative imagination, though by no means throwing scholarship completely out of the window. In 'listing' his true apostles, who exhibit a spirit of service, modest wise counsel and encourgement, joy and love, rather than laying claim to their power, precedence and authority, the author does succeed in bringing his very huanan chracters to life, making for a lively read! ~ Ernest Baker, Faith and Freedom
To John Henson: Dear John, I just finished reading The Bad Acts of the Apostles. It was well written, full of new ways of looking at how the apostles acted as described by Brother Luke. You have a brilliant mind. Keep up the good work. Sincerely, Tony Campolo. P.S. – I also am enjoying Good as New. ~
He does it again in this popular book - of which the first edition was quickly sold out. John shows how the Acts of the Apostles reveals, to our surprise, how the Apostles soon deviated in some respects from the teaching of Jesus. Reading it challenges us to ask ourselves whether we do the same. ~ Adrian Smith, Catholic priest and former missionary, author of Tomorrow's Faith
John Henson has done it again. He manages to bring to Scripture what is lacking in lots of other commentators - imagination that is grounded in radical theology and rooted in a commitment to the God who is like Jesus. Always thoughtful, sometimes provocative, never dull, the Bad Acts of the Apostles gives readers a different take on members of the early church. An enriching read. ~ Howard Sharp, Moderator of the Mersey Synod of the United Reformed Church
