The Search for the Twelve Apostles

by William Steuart McBirnie

Book Overview

Simon Peter, Andrew, James the son of Zebedee, John, Philip, Bartholomew, Thomas, Matthew, James the son of Alphaeus, Jude, Simon, Judas, and Matthias-what happened to the men who answered Jesus' call... This description may be from another edition of this product.

• Format: Hardcover
• ISBN: B001GYL148
• ISBN13: 9780739496817
• Release Date: January 2004
• Publisher: Tyndale House Publishers
• Length: 258 Pages
• Weight: 1.25 lbs.

Customer Reviews

well researched

The sheer amount of information provides on the apostles in the Bible is amazing. There are many pointers to other places to look for information. I found this to be a good source for a small research paper as well as leading me to other sources.

Enjoyable overview of the Apostles' lives

The Protestant theologian who wrote this 312-page book in 1973 provides a highly readable summary of known information about the life and fate of Christ's original twelve apostles plus a number of other important New Testament characters such as Paul, Barnabas and John the Baptist. The is little or no discussion of theological aspects of each character but rather an effort to gather known facts and references from disparate sources about each man (no female characters are covered) in an effort to provide an account of their probable life story, particularly after Christ's crucifixion. It is particularly interesting to learn about the evidence of travel and missions for the lesser known apostles and explanations and theories about Apostolic journeys to India. McBirnie tries to stay with verifiable facts and sources that are considered historically reliable rather than speculate too much about unknown or unknowable matters. Following 44 pages of general background on the early Christian era and available historic sources McBirnie provides a chapter each for 19 men in 250 pages. That is followed by an appendix listing New Testament references for each character, five-page bibliography and a seven-page index. I did not find the author is be as negative regarding relics, etc., as some other reviewer do. I enjoyed this book and recommend it an entertaining read as well as Christian study reference.

The Final Word On The Apostles

All other books on the apostles will be judged against this one. This is the definitive account on what happened to the Apostles. Granted, a lot of the material is heresay and legend. But these men lived so long ago that reliable facts about them are few and far between. Sketchy ideas are better than no ideas, and the McBirnie makes it very clear how accurate the theories are. The author delves deep into history to discover the fate of the twelve closest disciples of the lord, and does an incredible job, considering what a daunting task it was.

excellent addition to anyone who loves church history

I have read this book many times. It is extremely well written and inspiration to all Christians. As much as possible this book is historically accurate. The author provides information about where the early church leaders went and many of the traditions associated with such people as Mary, Lazarus, and the 12 apostles. He also talks about where they travelled, how they died, and where they are buried.A truly outstanding book, easy to read, and when you are going thru difficult times...a book which will uplift your spirit.

Terrific Resource!

I have bought a LOT of copies of this book and handed them out to friends. This is a must for you library. Dr. McBirnie does an excellent job of tracking down not only the twelve apostles, but Luke, Mark, Paul, Lazarus, etc. He makes a clear distinction of Church history, legend and myth. Very useful to anyone teaching from the New Testament. The author does an excellent job listing his resources at the end of the book (in case you are hungry for more) and includes a comprehensive index. Highly recommended.