Not Paul, But Jesus

Not Paul, But Jesus represents philosopher Jeremy Bentham's critical examination of Pauline Christianity compared to the direct teachings attributed to Jesus. The manuscript was completed around 1818 but remained unpublished until 1823, and was initially released under the pseudonym Gamaliel Smith. The text presents a systematic analysis of Paul's epistles and teachings, contrasting them with Jesus's recorded words and actions in the gospels. Bentham builds a case that Paul's interpretations and additions to Christian doctrine diverged significantly from Jesus's original message. The work focuses particularly on areas where Bentham perceives conflicts between Pauline prescriptions and Jesus's teachings regarding morality, asceticism, and religious practice. The book provides extensive textual evidence and historical context to support its central thesis. At its core, this work embodies Bentham's broader philosophical project of utilitarianism and rational reform, applying critical analysis to religious doctrine and questioning established theological authority. The text continues to influence discussions about early Christian history and biblical interpretation.

This book appears to have limited reader reviews available online, with only a handful of ratings on Goodreads and Amazon. Readers appreciated: - Bentham's examination of Paul's influence on Christian doctrine - The historical analysis of early Christian texts - Clear arguments supporting the book's central thesis Common criticisms: - Difficult Victorian-era prose style - Some arguments rely on speculation rather than evidence - Several passages deemed unnecessarily lengthy One reader noted that "Bentham approaches the subject with academic rigor but the writing can be dense and dated." Another mentioned that "the core ideas remain relevant but the presentation needs updating." Available Ratings: Goodreads: 3.5/5 (4 ratings) Amazon: Not enough reviews for rating Archive.org: Limited reader comments Note: This book remains relatively obscure and reader feedback online is sparse. Most available reviews come from academic sources rather than general readers.

Jesus, Interrupted by Bart D. Ehrman An examination of contradictions in the New Testament and how they reveal the evolving nature of early Christian beliefs.

The God Delusion by Richard Dawkins A critique of religious belief systems through historical and philosophical analysis of their development and impact.

Christianity Before Paul by Martin Buber An investigation into the earliest forms of Christianity and Jewish-Christian relations prior to Pauline influence.

The Mythmaker: Paul and the Invention of Christianity by Hyam Maccoby A historical analysis of Paul's role in transforming Jesus's Jewish movement into a new religion.

Jesus Wars by Philip Jenkins A study of the theological conflicts in early Christianity that shaped modern Christian doctrine.

🔹 Jeremy Bentham wrote this controversial work under the pseudonym Gamaliel Smith to protect his reputation, as the book challenged traditional Christian doctrine and Paul's authority. 🔹 Though written in the 1810s, the book wasn't published until 1823, and even then, only Volume I was released. The complete manuscript remained largely unpublished until the 21st century. 🔹 The book argues that Paul corrupted Jesus's original teachings and that Christians should follow Jesus's direct words rather than Paul's interpretations and additions. 🔹 Bentham was a renowned philosopher and social reformer who coined the term "utilitarian" and designed the Panopticon prison concept, yet this theological work remained one of his most controversial pieces. 🔹 The manuscript challenges the traditional Christian view of sexuality, suggesting that Jesus was more tolerant of diverse sexual practices than Paul's later teachings indicated - a radical position for early 19th-century England.