HIS 216 & REL 216 Church History I: Ancient & Middle Ages

How did the early Christian movement, which began among Jewish people and in close association with the Jewish temple and synagogues of the first century, develop into a predominantly Gentile movement by the end of the first century? Was this "parting of the ways" spurred by internal tensions within the Christian church, socio-political factors in the Roman city of Antioch, or growing hostility from the larger Jewish community? Thomas A. Robinson addresses these intriguing historical question by taking a careful look at the writings of one of the few Christian writers who wrote about this parting firsthand.

Readings from the Church Fathers (including Ignatius of Antioch), selected, and with an introduction by James R. Payton, Jr. (emeritus professor of history at Redeemer University College). The writings of the Church Fathers constitute the "first story" of the Christian faith, built upon its apostolic foundation. Patristic scholar James Payton makes the Fathers more accessible by selecting passages that are easily applicable to the average Christian's life.

Augustine. Tertullian. Origen, Ignatius of Antioch. For too many Christians such names are abstract, one-dimensional legends, innocuous voices from antiquity no longer relevant to modern needs and concerns. However, a closer look at these church fathers reveals writers whose reflections on the apostolic teachings edify all generations of believers.

This companion brings together a team of contemporary theologians and writers to provide substantial introductions to the key people who shaped the Christian story and tradition. Structured accessibly around five periods: early centuries, middle ages, reformation period, the Enlightenment, and the twentieth-century to the present.