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Bible Stories: Fact, Fiction and Fantasy in Scripture
Beginning with the rise of modern Pentecostalism before tracking back 2,500-years, author and academic Gavin Evans traces the history of the Abrahamic faiths, Christianity, Judaism and Islam. In this book he explores the New Testament, Hebrew Bible and the Qur'an.
Delving into recent archaeological research, Bible Stories presents evidence that tales such as those of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob, and also Moses, Joshua and the Exodus, were entirely mythological. Robust interrogation of the evidence allows Evans to go further still, casting doubt on the Jesus story and arguing that even if he did exist as an historical figure, we know next to nothing about him.
As well as examining these key religious texts, Bible Stories also holds modern atheism to account - critiquing the work of some of its most ardent advocates, Evans rejects a militant approach and makes a compelling argument for a softer, more tolerant atheism.
Delving into recent archaeological research, Bible Stories presents evidence that tales such as those of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob, and also Moses, Joshua and the Exodus, were entirely mythological. Robust interrogation of the evidence allows Evans to go further still, casting doubt on the Jesus story and arguing that even if he did exist as an historical figure, we know next to nothing about him.
As well as examining these key religious texts, Bible Stories also holds modern atheism to account - critiquing the work of some of its most ardent advocates, Evans rejects a militant approach and makes a compelling argument for a softer, more tolerant atheism.
320 pages, Hardcover
Published February 17, 2026
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October 23, 2025
Gavin Evans’ Bible Stories: Fact, Fiction and Fantasy in Scripture is perfect for anyone interested in theology but also for Chrsitian readers seeking thoughtful engagement with the source material our faith is largely based on.
Evans invites readers into an evidence-based exploration of biblical texts. His approach is refreshingly genuine—he doesn’t mock belief. Instead, he examines the historical and literary roots of scripture and its links to mythological texts such as the Gilgamesh epic or Greek mythology.
What stands out most is Evans’ tone: curious, sincere, and never combative. He dissects the Bible’s books with scholarly precision, but also with an openness that honours their cultural and spiritual significance. Gavin's writing manages to be both critical and kind. It's also genuinely funny at times!
A bit about my own interest in theology. I read the Bible cover to cover when I was a teenager (agnostic) and again when I joined the Catholic Church at 20. Today I'm what I'd call a "bad Catholic" as I don't go to mass or confession, don't agree with half the teaching and certainly none of the social exclusion. My faith is personal, it helps me face difficulties and enriches my life. But for me it's a choice. And not one I'd force on anyone.
Rating: 4.5 because it needs to be longer!!
Evans invites readers into an evidence-based exploration of biblical texts. His approach is refreshingly genuine—he doesn’t mock belief. Instead, he examines the historical and literary roots of scripture and its links to mythological texts such as the Gilgamesh epic or Greek mythology.
What stands out most is Evans’ tone: curious, sincere, and never combative. He dissects the Bible’s books with scholarly precision, but also with an openness that honours their cultural and spiritual significance. Gavin's writing manages to be both critical and kind. It's also genuinely funny at times!
A bit about my own interest in theology. I read the Bible cover to cover when I was a teenager (agnostic) and again when I joined the Catholic Church at 20. Today I'm what I'd call a "bad Catholic" as I don't go to mass or confession, don't agree with half the teaching and certainly none of the social exclusion. My faith is personal, it helps me face difficulties and enriches my life. But for me it's a choice. And not one I'd force on anyone.
Rating: 4.5 because it needs to be longer!!
Displaying 1 of 1 review