Gospel of Nicodemus

Pseudepigrapha — not canonical

Two originally separate works bound together in the medieval Latin and Greek manuscripts: the Acts of Pilate (chapters 1–16), narrating the trial, crucifixion, and resurrection of Jesus from the Roman administration's point of view, with extensive testimony from those Christ healed; and the Descensus Christi ad Inferos (chapters 17–27), narrating Christ's descent to the realm of the dead between his crucifixion and resurrection, his liberation of the patriarchs and prophets, and his triumph over Satan and Hades. The Descensus is the single most detailed early narrative of what 1 Peter 3:18–20, 1 Peter 4:6, Ephesians 4:8–9, and ultimately D&C 138 describe — Christ preaching to the spirits in prison. Composed in Greek probably in the fourth century, drawing on traditions much older. The work was widely read in the medieval church and shaped the Harrowing-of-Hell iconography that pervades Eastern Orthodox Easter liturgy.

29 chapters · Roberts & Donaldson / Alexander Walker, Ante-Nicene Fathers vol. 8 (1886) — Latin Form A (Acts of Pilate 1–16, Descensus 17–27, Letter of Pilate to Claudius 28–29)

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