The Early Christians - by Tertullian & Hermas & Justin & Ignatius & Polycarp & Irenaeus & Origen & Clement Of Alexandria (Hardcover)

Book Synopsis

In these firsthand accounts of the early church, the spirit of Pentecost burns with prophetic force through the fog enveloping the modern church. A clear and vibrant faith lives on in these writings, providing a guide for Christians today. Its stark simplicity and revolutionary fervor will stun those lulled by conventional Christianity.

The Early Christians is a topically arranged collection of primary sources. It includes extra-biblical sayings of Jesus and excerpts from Origen, Tertullian, Polycarp, Clement of Alexandria, Justin, Irenaeus, Hermas, Ignatius, and others. Equally revealing material from pagan contemporaries - critics, detractors, and persecutors - is included as well.

Review Quotes

A compelling, fascinating, and direct account of one of the most important periods in the history of modern man.--James Luther, Adams Harvard Divinity School

If you hold, like Arnold does, that Christianity is no longer Christianity if it departs too radically from its beginnings, you must read this book.--Roland H. Bainton, Professor Emeritus, Yale University

This selection will not only help readers understand early Christianity intellectually; it will also challenge them to live more fully, abundantly, and even radically.--Justo L. Gonzalez, Emory University

This welcome anthology of writings from the first two centuries of Christendom is full and practical - and fervent.--America Magazine