Without presupposing prior knowledge this accessibly written introduction to Christianity covers the entire history of the religion from its Old Testament foundations up to the present, including the significant individuals, events, doctrines, and rituals of the faith. Sinclair surveys the major historical forms of Christianity (Catholicism, Eastern Orthodoxy, Protestantism) and the contemporary issues that divide Christians today (e.g., homosexuality). The book also tackles such difficult topics as the origin and relevance of biblical prophecy, the historicity and significance of the miracles of Jesus (and the resurrection), combining evolution and biblical faith, and producing an intellectually coherent explanation of the Trinity and the Incarnation. Throughout the book, Sinclair carefully explains what he himself believes as a contemporary critical Christian and why, and provides readers with enough information to form their own independent opinions. He also acknowledges the dark side of Christian history—the crusades, anti-Semitism, the wars between Catholics and Protestants, the forced imposition of Christianity on native peoples—even as he celebrates the spiritual depth and dazzling cultural achievements of the largest religion in the world.
