The Rise of Christianity: A Sociologist Reconsiders History

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Description

The idea that Christianity started as a clandestine movement among the poor is a widely accepted notion. This book addresses beliefs and historical facts, and brings a sociologist's perspective to bear on the puzzle behind the success of early Christianity. It provides insights into why people convert and how new religious groups recruit members.

Reviews

"Brilliant. . . . Using what is known about contemporary religious cults and the principles of social science, Stark fills many blanks in the historical and archeological records. The result is a fresh, blunt and highly persuasive account of how the West was wonfor Jesus."---Kenneth L. Woodward, Newsweek
"This book raises, simply and brilliantly, just the kinds of questions anyone concerned with early Christianity should ask." * Christian Century *
"Stark uses contemporary social-scientific data, about why people join new religious movements and how religions recruit members, to investigate the formative history of Christianity. . . . Stark's conclusion that the rapid rise of early Christianity was due mainly to high fertility rates and social policies rather than to faith in the messianic message of Jesus is likely to generate spirited argument." * Publishers Weekly *
"This book is an exciting and important addition to the literature on early Christianity. . . . It is a book of fascinating detail, yet its broad sociological assumptions will intrigue any person interested in church growth. It will challenge common theological assumptions. But, its creative and persuasive insights also will engage the thoughtful person. It is a very significant book." * Choice *
"Compelling reading . . . highly recommended." * Library Journal *

Author Bio

Rodney Stark (19342022) was Distinguished Professor of the Social Sciences at Baylor University, where he was former codirector of the Institute for Studies of Religion. His many books include The Churching of America, 1776-1990 (with Roger Finke) and A Theory of Religion (with William Sims Bainbridge).