Christianity : how a despised sect from a minority religion came to dominate the Roman Empire /

As this book's subtitle notes, Christianity quickly evolved from a small movement of lay Jewish people to a worldwide force. Hill (Zondervan Handbook to the History of Christianity) provides a rapid yet thorough overview of the spread of Christianity and the varying views of scholars on first- through fourth-century Christianity. Many Christians are generally familiar with the New Testament history of the very early followers of Christ from Acts, but the years thereafter remain a mystery. This book sheds light on those first four centuries-revealing the persecutions, theological controversies, beginnings of monastic life, and intersection of Roman rulers and the church. VERDICT Lavishly illustrated with maps, medieval artwork, and modern photos, this book is not a dry, dusty read but a fascinating narrative that will hold readers' attention. Lay historians of the early church and general readers seeking a history of early Christianity will enjoy this book. The illustrations alone are worth browsing, and the bibliography adds value.-Ray Arnett, Fremont Area Dist. Lib., MI (c) Copyright 2011. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.