The Early Church: Origins to the Dawn of the Middle Ages

by E. Glenn Hinson

An introduction to the history of the Christian church from its inception to approximately 600 C.E., this volume seeks to balance the traditional presentation of notable figures, councils, and controversies with the telling of the story of the ordinary Christian during this era. An important feature of this work is its attendance to the stories of ordinary lay Christians--particularly women--and what Christian faith meant within the overall context of their lives. Other emphases include the church's changing role in society during this period (and the fateful consequences those changes have had for modern Christians) and the development of early Christian spirituality.

Employing a socio-institutional approach, Hinson divides his material into five major
(1) Beginnings to 70 C.E.
(2) 70-180, during which Christianity broadcast itself throughout the Roman Empire and beyond
(3) 175-313, wherein the church achieved new status and came under official scrutiny as a threat to the empire
(4) 313-400, in which the church faced the major challenge of Christianizing the empire now embracing it
(5) 400-600, when the Germanic "invasions" led to a rift between East and West and posed new challenges to the church's survival and growth.

Genres: Church History

385 pages, Paperback

First published December 1, 1995

About the author

E. Glenn Hinson is emeritus professor of Spirituality and John Loftis Professor of Church History at Baptist Theological Seminary in Richmond, Virginia. In retirement he served as visiting professor at Lexington Theological Seminary, Louisville (Presbyterian) Seminary, Candler School of Theology (Emory University) and Baptist Seminary of Kentucky. His honors include the Cuthbert Allen Memorial Award for Ecumenism awarded by the Ecumenical Institute of Belmont Abbey/Wake Forest University.

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Reviews

[Ross West · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book provides an excellent survey of church history from New Testament times until the dawn of the Middle Ages. With two earned doctorates--one from Oxford--and more than four decades as a professor teaching in this area, Dr. Hinson is exceptionally qualified to present this subject. He is a trustworthy guide in the details as well as in the big picture. In addition, the book is organized well and is well-written.