The Secrets of Judas | James M. Robinson

The Secrets of Judas: The Story of the Misunderstood Disciple and His Lost Gospel

Extended Synopsis

The discovery of the long-lost Gospel of Judas Iscariot has fundamentally challenged traditional views within biblical history. While the canonical gospels of Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John present an inconsistent portrait of the disciple who betrayed Jesus, the revelation of this ancient text offers a radical alternative: a depiction of Judas as a chosen follower whose actions were essential to a divine plan for the Passion and subsequent resurrection.

In The Secrets of Judas, expert early Christian historian James M. Robinson meticulously dissects biblical and extra-canonical records to discover what can factually be known about the historical Judas. Robinson details the sensational narrative behind the manuscript's recovery, exploring its profound theological consequences and examining whether modern religious institutions should reevaluate Judas's role in history and the Christian faith.

Reader Targeting

• Scholars, students, and readers of early Christian history, Gnosticism, and theology.
• Individuals interested in historical methodology, ancient manuscript discoveries, and apocryphal texts.
• Academic book discussion groups seeking rigorously factual evaluations of biblical figures.

About the Author

James M. Robinson (1925–2016) was a highly respected historian of early Christianity and Professor Emeritus of Religion at Claremont Graduate University. Renowned for his foundational work on the Nag Hammadi library, he stood as a premier authority on ancient Coptic texts and the historical origins of the Christian movement.

Accolades & Features

This definitive HarperOne trade paperback edition includes an insightful introduction by the author, comprehensive translation footnotes, cross-referenced canonical comparisons, and an exhaustive subject index engineered for reference-level precision.

Bust-Down Books: More Than a Bookstore