This volume is both a commemorative work honoring W.H.C. Frend, one of the most distinguished historians of the patristic era, and an important introduction to the early church. The essays provide a basically chronological presentation of the history of the early church, while devoting significant attention to the religious, political, social, and cultural backgrounds of early Christianity.
Interesting book but a word of warning for conservative readers: this collection of essays in honour of W.H.C. Frend are all written from a liberal perspective, so everything must be taken cum grano salis!