From Christ to Christianity: How the Jesus Movement Became the Church in Less Than a Century

The Christian movement transformed from a rural, Hebrew-Aramaic-speaking movement to an urban, Greek-speaking, gentile movement by the early second century, spreading through the Greco-Roman world with a mission agenda and church organization distinct from its roots in Jewish Galilee.

\n Format: Paperback / softback
\n Length: 320 pages
\n Publication date: 06 July 2021
\n Publisher: Baker Publishing Group
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The Christian movement, founded by Jesus, experienced significant transformation in the first seventy-five years after his death compared to the two thousand years since. This remarkable journey is explored in this book, which delves into the historical progression of the Christian movement. Initially, the movement was characterized by its informal nature, rural setting, and primary language of Hebrew and Aramaic, closely tied to the Jewish synagogue. However, by the early second century, the Christian movement had undergone a profound shift. It became predominantly urban, adopting the Greek language and attracting a gentile audience. This expansion spread the Christian message throughout the Greco-Roman world, accompanied by a distinct mission agenda and organizational structure that deviated from its Jewish Galilee roots.

Furthermore, this book highlights the enduring witness of the early church, which continues to inspire and guide the church today. It explores how the early Christians' unwavering commitment to their faith, their willingness to share their experiences, and their deep understanding of the Scriptures shaped the development of the Christian church. The early church's example serves as a valuable lesson for contemporary believers, reminding them of the foundational principles upon which the Christian faith was built and encouraging them to remain faithful to their calling in the present age.

In conclusion, this book provides a captivating account of the transformation of the Christian movement from its humble beginnings to its global presence. It sheds light on the historical factors, cultural influences, and spiritual dynamics that shaped this remarkable journey. By examining the early church's witness, the book offers valuable insights and inspiration for the church today, as it seeks to continue spreading the message of Jesus and making a positive impact on the world.

\n Weight: 444g\n
Dimension: 153 x 227 x 25 (mm)\n
ISBN-13: 9781540961402\n \n