Shapers of Early Christianity - by Roland H Worth (Paperback)

About the Book

In 100 A.D., Christianity was practiced only by a small, oppressed minority. Three hundred years later, these facts had changed dramatically, and Christianity had gone beyond simple approval and acceptance to become one of the world's major religions. But this change did not happen easily. The imperial government of Rome, intellectual tradition and battles within the church itself influenced the transformation. Every viewpoint had its champions and opponents, some of whom had a decisive influence on what shape the church would take. Whether they were "defenders of the faith" or those whom history later labeled heretics, they were part of the early evolution of Christianity.

Book Synopsis

In 100 A.D., Christianity was practiced only by a small, oppressed minority. Three hundred years later, Christianity had become one of the world's major religions. But this change did not happen easily. The imperial government of Rome, intellectual tradition and battles within the church itself influenced the transformation. Every viewpoint had its champions and opponents and whether they were "defenders of the faith" or those whom history later labeled heretics, they were part of the early evolution of Christianity.

This volume discusses more than 50 figures who played a role in the transformation from primitive Christianity to early Medieval Catholicism. As it examines the lives and influence of imperial rulers such as Constantine, proponents of the intellectual tradition including Gregory of Neocaesaria and Julius Africanus, and early Bible translators such as Tatian, Origen and Jerome, the work provides a fascinating look at Christian history.

Review Quotes

"Roland H. Worth, Jr. has provided a succinct overview of the first full three centuries of Christianity...[Worth's] approach is refreshing and commendable...his biographical format sets his book apart from the more conventional, and often dry, narrative histories...should appeal to many...this book should find a readership in academic and public libraries"-Against the Grain.

About the Author

The late Roland H. Worth, Jr., was the author of many books. He lived in Richmond, Virginia.