Church history in plain language updated 4th edition

I have always wanted to read a history of the Christian church from Jesus' resurrection to now. But the books I started were all dense and more for a seminarian. Dr. Bruce Shelley's Church History in Plain Language (updated by R. L. Hatchett for the Fourth Edition) charts the complexity of the Christian church movement through the ages. This sweep through the history of the church moves quickly through complex change in the structure of the local church throughout the world.My takeaways are: the church is messy, Christians are messier, but God's hand is steady and sure. While the evangelical author/editor have an opinion, they do a good job of presenting the historical facts and mostly let the reader form his/her own opinion.Covering 2000+ years in 500 pages does not allow the authors to dwell on anyone one phase in great depth although they slow down to set the stage for the events and explain how the events shaped the church as we know it today.One theme, that struck me throughout church history, is that the local church rediscovers "the church" and then at some point its "leaders" highjack the movement for their benefit. Constantine's rule is a reminder of our desire for the church to have "the power of the state" when the power of the Gospel is all that is needed. The history of the Roman Catholic church is another example of the excesses that occur when man attempts to use the church for the benefit of the institution over the good of the gospel. Most interesting to me was how much I have misunderstood what has happened in the last 4oo years both in America and in the world.To read about the rapid growth of the gospel in East Africa fueled by Ugandan pastors is inspiring. The American church of 2017 can learn a lot from what is happening in Africa, Asia, and even the middle east.The "national leadership" of the American church has been more focused (out of fear) in attacking the moral depravity of our nation when the gospel is the only true message of the church. Jesus Christ was a man and God. Yet in America we tend to strip Him of His supernatural power to not only save but to transform.One of the clear messages of the book is that our interest in protecting the church using state power/legislation, proven methods, revivals, camp meetings, programs, etc. takes the focus away from the gospel and that is the only source of power of the church of Jesus Christ.I will read this one again and maybe even again. Good read!

Great book, if you don't want to get into the fullest depths of church history. This is a nice condensed book to get. Well written.

In Church History in Plain Language, Shelly lay’s out the foundations of the faith by showing students the history of their religion. Shelley aims to educate Christians as to where their faith came from and to enlighten them about the many movements and world-shaping events that were caused by a desire to follow Christ.From Constantine to Nsibambi, Shelly accomplishes this goal with excellence. (The only exception being some creative license that he took in the first few chapters that I found disagreeable.)While reading this book I was swept away by the many highs and lows of our Faith and its proponents. But, one thing The Lord showed me through this book is that despite the pain caused by men or the rejection of God by others, we remain hopeful because He is still in charge!I heartily recommend this book to anyone who professes to be a believer in Christ to become more mature and know the movements your faith has caused.

I learned a lot from reading this. The title is spot on in terms of the book's contents... Church History is exactly what it is, from Pentacost to present. "In Plain Language" is exactly correct too. The title also indicates that, in my opinion, it's not exactly a "page turner" unless history textbooks are your thing. 4 stars for concise, accurate, thorough enough for what I need, easy to understand text. Not 5 stars just because of the lack of "thrill and excitement". Maybe I'm being too tough because I chose to read knowing this. I have to say it was interesting. Maybe 4.5 stars would be better but no half grades in Amazon. Another aspect was the author's objectivity in reporting was good. The times some subjectivity snuck in there didn't bother me because I agreed with him.

History told in a series of brief stories. Very engaging approach.

This book is a great way to learn church history! The chapters are a good length and very interesting. I got this for a class I am taking but I want to read all of the chapters. It is inspiring to read about those that have gone before us. This makes the history interesting and accessible.

An excellent read. This text has help to answer so many questions. Used in my Bible study class, everyone seemed to enjoy it.

This provides a high level overview of Christian history. Its presentation is logical, concise and still challenging. Certainly some eras are stronger than others, but for an overview of those saints that went before us, please read.