Church History 101: An Introduction for Presbyterians (ISBN 0664502776)

A solid, well- researched overview of the history of the Christian church:
Though intended especially for Presbyterians, Church History 101: An Introduction for Presbyterians is a solid, well- researched overview of the history of the Christian church from the era when Jesus Christ walked the earth to the present. Written by a retired Presbyterian minister, Church History 101 draws on a wide variety of scriptural, historical and archaeological resources to reconstruct the daily lives of Christian faithful as well as the monumental impacts of rulers, persecutions, crusades, alleged heresy, and attempts at reformation. The text reads fluidly, and is highly accessible especially to lay readers and study groups. Discussion questions such as "To what extent does the church in our country reflect the ideas of the Puritans? To what extent should it do so?" and "What has caused Presbyterians to divide in the past? How helpful have schisms proved to be? What has helped bring many of us back together?" follow each chapter, to better stimulate contemplation and the exchange of ideas. A highly recommended resource and history refresher.