The First Christian Century: Notes on Dr. Moffatt's Introduction to the Literature of the New Testament
Overview
In an attempt to dispel inaccuracies in historical records, this volume engages a discussion of biblical criticism. As Ramsay says in regards to Christ, "That the most powerful and lasting movement of the human mind originated in the Church's misunderstanding of a simple person, and was nursed in the 'pseudonymous' composition of legend or half-legend about him, is a theory against which I hope always to contend." The volume centers around analysis of a lecture given by an important biblical scholar of the time, Dr. Moffat.
- Title: The First Christian Century: Notes on Dr. Moffatt's Introduction to the Literature of the New Testament
- Author: William Mitchell Ramsay
- Publisher: Hodder and Stoughton
- Publication Date: 1911
- Pages: 216
W. M. Ramsay (1851–1939) was professor of humanity at the University of Aberdeen. He was most well-known for his archaeological endeavors, as he traveled extensively throughout Asia Minor, studying the missionary journeys of Paul, conducting archaeological research, and writing numerous books on his findings and adventures.
He studied at Oxford, the University of Aberdeen, and Gottingen, and he later went on to become the first ever professor of classical archaeology at Oxford. Ramsey received awards for his work from Pope Leo XII, the University of Pennsylvania, the Royal Geographical Society, and the Royal Scottish Geographical Society. He was knighted in 1906.
His works include St. Paul the Traveller and Roman Citizen. His original intent was to disprove Christianity through archaeology, but through his research he realized that the Bible was accurate and converted to Christianity.