Church History in Plain Language, Fifth Edition
The Story of the Church for Today's Readers
- History & Biography
- Publisher: Zondervan Academic (Zondervan)
- Published: 2022
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Publisher's Description
Over 330,000 copies sold. This is the story of the church for today's readers. Bruce Shelley's classic history of the church brings the story of global Christianity into the twenty-first century. Like a skilled screenwriter, Shelley begins each chapter with three elements: characters, setting, plot. Taking readers from the early centuries of the church up through the modern era he tells his readers a story of actual people, in a particular situation, taking action or being acted upon, provides a window into the circumstances and historical context, and from there develops the story of a major period or theme of Christian history. Covering recent events, this book also: Details the rapid growth of evangelical and Pentecostal Christianity in the southern hemisphere Addresses the decline in traditional mainline denominations Examines the influence of technology on the spread of the gospel Discusses how Christianity intersects with other religions in countries all over the world For this fifth edition, Marshall Shelley brought together a team of historians, historical theologians, and editors to revise and update this father's classic text. The new edition adds important stories of the development of Christianity in Asia, India, and Africa, both in the early church as well as in the twentieth and twenty-first centuries. It also highlights the stories of women and non-Europeans who significantly influenced the development of Christianity but whose contributions are often overlooked in previous overviews of church history. This concise book provides an easy-to-read guide to church history with intellectual substance. The new edition of Church History in Plain Language promises to set a new standard for readable church history.
Endorsements (4)
“Church History in Plain Language is just plain good. No, make that great —accessible, reader friendly, and interesting. A superb overview of the church’s story. Especially with the addition of recent historical developments, it’s the first book I recommend to those newly curious about the history of our faith.”
“way it elevated and integrated women and men from every nation, tribe, and tongue into God’s redemptive story.”
“Nearly four decades ago Bruce Shelley penned his magnum opus, Church History in Plain Language. It quickly acquired popular acclaim for how accessible and enjoyable it was to read. Along the way it became a personal favorite of mine as well as of the innumerable students I’ve had in class over the years. Now we are blessed to have this new edition that records the ongoing development, influence, and expansion of the church over two millennia. If you want a stimulating journey through the rich history of Christianity, this is the one book you must read.”
“introduce readers to their brothers and sisters in faith, and suggested reading lists point out avenues for further research. Christian history needs to belong to everybody. This book will help it do just that.”
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