History of Early Christianity

Markus Öhler’s History of Early Christianity portrays the history of the origins of the early Christian movement in a balanced, multifaceted-yet-focused manner. Based on the most recent research, it presents the actors and settings as well as the socioreligious milieus and contexts of Christ-believers around the Mediterranean area. By offering historical lines of events up to 135 CE, Öhler has outstandingly succeeded in composing an account that will have an effect on New Testament studies far beyond the classroom.

~Eve-Marie Becker, Professor of New Testament, University of Münster

Markus Öhler’s History of Early Christianity is a comprehensive and accessible guide to the fascinating beginning of one of the world’s most influential religions. It escorts readers on an illuminating journey through the cultural, social, and religious landscapes of the ancient world, examining key figures, events, and ideas that shaped the development of Christian history. Drawing upon the latest research and scholarship, Öhler explores in detail the teachings of Jesus of Nazareth, the writings of the apostles, and the rise of early Christian communities. With this volume, students, scholars, or simply those interested in Christian origins will gain a deeper understanding of the diverse perspectives and theological debates that characterized the early Christian movement and the complex relationships between Christianity and the political and social structures of the ancient world.

~Clare K. Rothschild, Professor of Scripture Studies, Lewis University

Öhler provides the chronological and geographical development of an array of early Christ groups, situating them clearly within their particular socio-cultural contexts, and demonstrating how the early Christ followers forged their identity as they moved from a conversion-based religion to a tradition-based religion. The work is historically grounded and rightfully cautious, integrating the best of recent scholarship with academic rigor and care, yet it reads smoothly in a way that will appeal to students and professors alike.

~Richard Ascough, Professor of Religion, Queen’s University