Global Church---The First Eight Centuries: From Pentecost through the Rise of Islam

The early Christian church was diverse and unified, with core teachings at its heart. Donald Fairbairn's book "The Global Church--The First Eight Centuries" helps readers understand this pivotal era by re-centering the story in Africa, Turkey, and Syria, highlighting Christian communities outside the Roman Empire, and identifying key events with global significance. It is an ideal introduction to the patristic era.

Format: Hardback
Length: 416 pages
Publication date: 25 May 2021
Publisher: Zondervan

The Christian church, which emerged in the early centuries, expanded its influence across Asia, Africa, and Europe, encompassing a diverse array of cultures and languages. Despite its geographical dispersion and diverse worship practices, the early church maintained a profound unity in its core teachings, which formed the foundation of the Christian faith. In his book "The Global Church: The First Eight Centuries: From Pentecost through the Rise of Islam," author Donald Fairbairn aims to shed light on both the diversity and unity of the church during this crucial period.

Fairbairn re-centers the narrative of the church in its early centuries, paying particular attention to regions such as Africa, Turkey, and Syria, where a significant intellectual energy was nurtured. He also highlights Christian communities outside the Roman Empire, extending as far as Persia and India, alongside those within it. By examining key events from a global perspective rather than solely from a Western lens, Fairbairn emphasizes the significance of early Christian interactions with other religions, particularly Islam.

"The Global Church: The First Eight Centuries" serves as an excellent introduction to the patristic era, offering a fresh perspective that broadens the narrative often recounted. It provides students of the early church, both formal and informal, with a depth of insight that enhances their understanding of this pivotal period. Through its comprehensive exploration of the variety and unity of the early church, this book offers valuable insights into the complex tapestry of Christian history and its enduring impact on the world.

Weight: 626g
Dimension: 162 x 236 x 38 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780310097853