The Social Structure of the Early Christian Communities deals with a small number of topics which, in one way or another, have long attracted the attention of students of early Christianity. Above all, it is an attempt to investigate the social origins and the social positions of the early Christians. Recent studies are arriving at the conclusion, contrary to long-held views, that the primitive Christian communities, those which emerge after the first chapters of Acts, did not consist of the 'dregs of the populace'. However, in spite of the important work which is being done on the subject, few of the recent books concerned with such sociological issues go far beyond the New Testament age. What still requires investigation is the composition of the early communities from the first years of the mission to the Gentiles down to the age of Constantine, when large sections of the population, from all social classes, started joining the Christian churches.

The book deals with the relation between identity, ethics, and ethos in the New Testament. The focus falls on the way in which the commandments or guidelines presented in the New Testament writings inform the behaviour of the intended recipients. The habitual behaviour (ethos) of the different Christian communities in the New Testament are plotted and linked to their identity. Apart from analytical categories like ethos, ethics, and identity that are clearly defined in the book, efforts are also made to broaden the specific analytical categories related to ethical material. The way in which, for instance, narratives, proverbial expressions, imagery, etc. inform the reader about the ethical demands or ethos is also explored.

Aune's comprehensive study of early Christian prophecy includes a review of its antecedents (Greco-Roman oracles, ancient Israelite prophecy, prophecy in early Judaism), a discussion of Jesus as prophet, and analyses of Christian prophetic speeches from Paul to the middle of the second century A.D.

While historians of Christianity have generally acknowledged some degree of Germanic influence in the development of early medieval Christianity, Russell goes further, arguing for a fundamental Germanic reinterpretation of Christianity. This first full-scale treatment of the subject follows a truly interdisciplinary approach, applying to the early medieval period a sociohistorical method similar to that which has already proven fruitful in explicating the history of Early Christianity and Late Antiquity. The encounter of the Germanic peoples with Christianity is studied from within the larger context of the encounter of a predominantly "world-accepting" Indo-European folk-religiosity with predominantly "world-rejecting" religious movements. While the first part of the book develops a general model of religious transformation for such encounters, the second part applies this model to the Germano-Christian scenario. Russell shows how a Christian missionary policy of temporary accommodation inadvertently contributed to a reciprocal Germanization of Christianity.

Christianity is the largest religion in the world with approximately 2.1 billion adherents. Nonetheless, when measured by the gold standard-early Christian teachings and practice-we find considerable slippage. Two words describe current church problems and failures: dull and devious. At the highest levels of Catholic leadership, for example, we find scandals galore. Top officials pilfer $40 million in Detroit to build national shrines, Cardinals and bishops cover up priest sexual abuse, and the pope most recently ignores high ranking bishops and cardinals' pleas to allow Catholics to use condoms to prevent the spread of HIV/AIDS. That is the devious part. At the lower end of the totem pole are priests and laity that just don't get it. They say their prayers, go to mass, and have their baptisms; they wonder why their kids don't go to church any more. Not enough priests? We will close the small churches and build a mega church. One small city in Wisconsin (pop. 40,000) did this at the cost of $12 million. Care to measure the cost of celibacy? Pay, pray, and obey is the mantra and the young people don't like it. Little wonder that only 1 in 3 Christians practice their faith to any appreciable degree and fail to pass religious traditions on to the next generation. Instead of going after the lost sheep, the pope says maybe we need a small dedicated remnant of believers. Interesting strategy when you have driven the sheep away with questionable policies: no women priests, no married priests, no condoms to fight AIDS.

The Sunday Times bestseller, with a new introduction by Nassim Nicholas Taleb 'If great books encourage you to look at the world in an entirely new way, then Dominion is a very great book indeed' Dominic Sandbrook, Sunday Times History Book of the Year 'Terrific: bold, ambitious and passionate' Peter Frankopan Dominion tells the epic story of how those in the West came to be what they are, and why they think the way they do. Ranging from Moses to Merkel, from Babylon to Beverley Hills, from the emergence of secularism to the abolition of slavery, it explores why, in a society that has become increasingly doubtful of religion's claims, so many of its instincts remain irredeemably Christian. Christianity's enduring impact is not confined to churches. It can be seen everywhere in the West: in science, in secularism, in gay rights, even in atheism. It is - to coin a phrase - the greatest story ever told. PRAISE FOR DOMINION 'A masterpiece of scholarship and storytelling' John Gray, New Statesman 'Filled with vivid portraits, gruesome deaths and moral debates... Holland has all the talents of an accomplished novelist' Terry Eagleton, Guardian 'This extraordinary book is vintage Tom Holland: history boldly and elegantly retold' Diarmaid MacCulloch

In this volume, Chrys C. Caragounis examines linguistic, exegetical, historical, and theological matters diachronically. The copious utilization of Hellenic sources from all periods of the language throws new light on the subjects discussed. Some of the highlights of the present volume include discussions of the concept of Logos and of the Weltanschauung of the New Testament authors, critiques of sociological reconstructions of Corinthian Christianity, and of the 'New Perspective on Paul', a comparison between immortality (Platon) and resurrection (Paul) as well as an informed treatment of expiation versus propitiation.

Horton brings together the latest research on the origins of the gospels and their transmission, and provides the only guide to the Chester Beatty Codex P45. Provides an introduction to the gospel genre and examining literacy among early Christians and all that is known about the origins and transmission of the gospels. Also focuses on the significance of P45, its place as the earliest Christian gospel-book, its unique readings, the earliest extant version of the gospel of Mark, and how the manuscript was found piece by piece by an American collector.

Discover the depths of the New Testament with this comprehensive guide that delves into its historical setting, cultural background, and context. "THE NEW TESTAMENT: Its Background, Setting & Content" by Thomas F. Marshall is an essential resource for Christians seeking a more profound understanding of the Word of God. In this meticulously researched and engaging book, readers will find a wealth of information to enrich their Bible study experience. By examining the people, governments, and religious leaders of the time, along with the geographical and historical context of the New Testament writings, Marshall enables readers to extract the true meaning of the Scriptures as intended by the original authors. This invaluable guide empowers Christians to move beyond shallow study and towards a deeper, more nuanced comprehension of the Bible. As Dr. Lee M. Fields writes, "’Deep’ study is no guarantee that mature faith will result, but shallow study guarantees that immaturity continues." With Marshall's expert guidance, you will gain the tools and insights needed to elevate your understanding of the New Testament and fortify your faith. Whether you are a seasoned Bible scholar or a curious newcomer, "THE NEW TESTAMENT: Its Background, Setting & Content" is a must-read resource that will enrich your spiritual journey and bring the ancient world of the New Testament vividly to life.

La 4e de couverture indique : "In this monograph, Timothy J. Murray studies early Christian practices of financial generosity by examining when, why and how they restricted their generosity. He analyzes the New Testament in its social context, arguing that common cultural ideals of mutual support in a family were adopted by the fictive-family of the early church."