The Changing Shape of Church History

by Justo Gonzalez

History is not just about the past -- it is a dialogue between the present and the past, with historians posing questions and receiving answers that depend on their perspectives. In "The Changing Shape of Church History," renowned theologian Justo Gonzáles listens to voices from centers other than the North Atlantic to help us see a different perspective of church history -- a global story that includes those previously marginalized -- as he offers us a hopeful outlook for the future of world Christianity. Gonzáles recognizes the field of church history is undergoing significant changes, driven not only by new sources and scholarship but also by the evolving nature of the church and the world. These changes can be found in various areas such as the relationship between pagan and Christian in the early church, the study of gnosticism, analysis of medieval manuscripts, exploration of medieval mystics and heretics, new interpretations of influential figures like Luther, Calvin, and Wesley, and even in obscure topics being researched in dissertations. However, the challenge lies in connecting these cutting-edge areas to ministry in the present-day. "The Changing Shape of Church History" explores the significant changes already underway in the field of church history and their lasting impact.

Genres: History, Christianity, Church History, Religion

159 pages, Paperback

First published June 1, 2002

Reviews

[Jeremy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Can we do church history as a history not the center but from the margins?

[Dennis Podryadchikov · Rating 5 out of 5]

Enumerating different facts Justo Gonzalez gradually proves the point that our view of history, including church history, changes as we realize how church tried to find its place throughout different stages of history. Gonzalez' last point is that the most appropriate place for church to look at its both past and future history is that of incarnation. The book is a mind-challenging read not only for students of or interested in history, but also for missionaries and all those who try to avoid mistakes of the past.

[AskHistorians]

Today, churches in Europe go vacant and African congregations send missionaries to evangelize the United States. Gonzalez grapples with how this shift of Christianity's focal points to the global south affects how we tell the story of Christianity--not just today, but from its foundations.

[Jeremy Meeks · Rating 3 out of 5]

So much good, so much not so hot. Interested in Christian history and where it might be headed (it is not all great). Pick it up, though I do have some trouble with parts