jjares reviewed History of Christianity: An Enthralling Overview of the Most Important Events that Shaped the Christian Church (Religion in Past Times) on + 3294 more book reviews
Enthralling History points out that they are trying to show how and why Christianity is such a powerful religion, not trying to convert readers. Although I've read much of the early History of Christianity before, Enthralling History rounds out its overview by looking at Christianity in the 20th century.
I was particularly intrigued by German nationalists (during WW II) who tried to blend Christianity with the German state. I wasn't aware some German dissidents formed the Confessing Church. In 1934, the Barmen Declaration officially condemned the German state and reaffirmed the church's traditional views.
Another surprise was learning that Stalin encouraged religion during the dark days of WWII. Then, I thought the Russian leadership viewed religion as opium for the masses.
The most interesting conclusion is that since the establishment of Israel, there has been a stronger emphasis on "end times' within the Christian churches.
I found this overview to be thought-provoking and worthwhile reading.
I was particularly intrigued by German nationalists (during WW II) who tried to blend Christianity with the German state. I wasn't aware some German dissidents formed the Confessing Church. In 1934, the Barmen Declaration officially condemned the German state and reaffirmed the church's traditional views.
Another surprise was learning that Stalin encouraged religion during the dark days of WWII. Then, I thought the Russian leadership viewed religion as opium for the masses.
The most interesting conclusion is that since the establishment of Israel, there has been a stronger emphasis on "end times' within the Christian churches.
I found this overview to be thought-provoking and worthwhile reading.
