‘How did Christianity Begin? is a lively and engaging dialogue between two stars of the new wave of New Testament scholarship, with very different “takes” on the beginnings of Christianity. Bird and Crossley discuss a wide range of topics, and their sharp yet good-humoured exchanges are utterly absorbing. This book makes a contribution to ongoing scholarly debates and also serves as an excellent primer on Christian origins.’
Edward Adams, Senior Lecturer in New Testament Studies, King’s College, London

‘Two rival accounts of Christian origins are here set side by side, with response and critique, both from the two main authors and from two other scholars, Maurice Casey and Scot McKnight. The result is a welcome provocation to readers to weigh the contrasting proposals, to reassess their own views on such matters, and to consider how far their religious and historical convictions shape their perspective on Jesus and the beginnings of Christianity.’
David G. Horrell, Professor of New Testament Studies, University of Exeter

‘Bird and Crossley go head-to-head in this provocative debate about the nature and essence of Christian origins. The arguments on both sides are marshalled with skill, insight and thoughtful reflection . . . Crossley and Bird present the evidence for their respective viewpoints strongly and then press each other where they see weaknesses in the opposing position. For readers, this respectful debate brings about much clarity and shows why the question of Christian origins remains vital.’
Paul Foster, Senior Lecturer in New Testament, School of Divinity, University of Edinburgh