Christianity

Reviews / Votes

'Christianity is such a complex, diverse phenomenon that an introduction must simplify, but without simplification: and this Philip Kennedy achieves with admirable success. His book captures Christianity in all its allure and diversity. Kennedy's prose is limpid, but his judgments sharp and challenging. For the rich Christianity offers the divine, cosmic Christ, but for the poor there is the human Jesus, humiliated but triumphant in his blessings; and in the interplay between these two images, Kennedy finds reason for the success and conflicts of the Christian story. This is a simply superb introduction to Christianity in all its contradictions and variety.' - Gerard Loughlin, Professor of Theology and Religion, Durham University; 'What an epic and what a read! From the Babylonian Empire to the banking crisis at the end of the first decade of the third millennium; from messianic stirrings to the Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse - Kennedy combs times and geographies like a contemporary Faust. His prose is lucid, his observations deft and the figuring of events, cultural achievements and people masterly. This is not a summary and it is not just an overview. It is a magnificent story about divine longing and human frailty. Anyone interested in Christianity past and present will learn immensely from this panoramic odyssey.' - Graham Ward, Professor of Contextual Theology and Ethics, University of Manchester; 'Several features of the book will suit undergraduates very well. While it does not try to be encyclopedic, it is nevertheless plenty comprehensive for an introductory course. It includes a valuable time-line and an excellent guide to common terms. The sections on doctrine are accurate without being apologetic; in fact, the emphasis on cultural history will appeal to instructors whose principal aims are not at all theological. Beginning students will appreciate the long section on Christianity in a Globalized WorldA", in which Kennedy surveys such subjects as ecumenism, the ordination of women, the Second Vatican Council, and the advent of mega media churches. This is an excellent portrayal of the range and depth of Christianity's engagement with the world.' - Terry F Godlove, Professor of Philosophy and Religion, Hofstra University