Dr. Glen L. Thompson
Book Code: #0111
The Christian faith grew rapidly after the resurrection and ascension of Jesus. After only 350 years, it had become the only legal religion in the Roman Empire and had spread far beyond it. By A.D. 1400 it had become the only recognized faith for all of Europe. Over that period, however, it changed so dramatically in form, structure, and practice that it would have been almost unrecognizable to its early adherents. Geographical and doctrinal divisions further complicated the situation. This volume allows the reader to hear this story in the words of those experiencing it. It contains excerpts (with brief introductions) from Christian historians and writers of each period, as well as from church councils and secular laws and historians. It will introduce the most important heroes of faith, church leaders, pivotal events, and debates about Christian teaching.
The more than 100 selections in this book have each been carefully chosen to illustrate important developments within the larger story of the church and its spread. Dr. Thompson has divided and arranged the selections to match the 34 chapters in his narrative history, The Ancient and Medieval Church (to A.D. 1400). By using these two volumes together, thirteen centuries of Christian history will come alive for the reader.