This is a fascinating read that tackles some of the questions that people rightfully have about the Gospels. This would be a perfect companion book for AQA A-level, particularly looking at the authority of the Bible and the arguments on both sides.

I have really been more interested lately into trying to understand things written in the Bible now I have lots of time to dive into it. I loved in this book how the author gave many references and where they could be found if you needed more. For me, that is VERY helpful as I often need to go back and reference again items that may not make sense the first time. I am a big history buff so the use of these Bibliographical references along with his knowledge made me give it 4 stars. Very pleased as I felt what I learned I could easily be part of a discussion and use what I have learned.

Good reading but I kept my Bible on hand while reading to make sure what t was reading was going alone with the Bible

I thoroughly enjoyed this short book on the Gospels of the New Testament. Williams uses very broad brushstrokes to write about a very difficult topic. Thus this book reads like a primer for the lay person who is wanting to delve into whether we can trust the Gospels as they appear in our Bibles.

What is exceptionally good is the fact that while using broad brushstrokes Williams gives us a Bibliography that is filled with heavyweight works. Thus if you find yourself interested in a particular section you can find references to material that will further your study.

Williams talks about the non-Christian historians of the early 1st century as a platform to add value to the Gospels as being historical in that these non-Christians affirm the early Gospels and affirm the personhood of Jesus of Nazareth.

Further he gives some good evidence for ways to determine if a historical writer truly knows his subject or not by his use of culture, custom, geography, politics, etc. The four Gospels certainly stand up to this litmus test.

All in all the lay-person will find this short book very helpful in giving them an overview of the Gospels veracity and will also give you a good amount of documented works that you can further read through to add to your knowledge and your decision about whether the Gospels can be trusted.

Enjoy!

Discrediting the validity of the Bible would mean the the foundation of Christianity would be damaged. The Gospels are under specific attack since they speak about the life of Jesus. Can we be sure that they can be trusted and is there any other evidence that supports their trustworthiness? Peter J. Williams is sure they can be trusted.

With each chapter, he addresses topics such as other sources of information, did the authors know what they were writing about, did Jesus say what is recorded, and supposed contradictions. The information is fairly thorough, but not exhaustive. Williams makes it clear that the book is intended to be short and aimed at a broad range of people. Since each chapter deals with a particular aspect of the topic, it would be easy to reference whichever one you needed to find the information you're looking for.

The book is written in an easy to read and understand way, so you won't have to have a degree in Biblical studies to comprehend it. That makes it good for many ages and walks of life. It is aimed at people who may be wondering if what the Gospels say can be relied upon. However, anyone who reads it can find it useful, especially if they are wondering how to discuss the topic with others.

I received a complimentary copy from the publisher through NetGalley. All opinions are my own.