First Christians: Pentecost and the Spread of Christianity

by Paul L. Maier

By Rev. Raymond Talavera (New York, NY) - See all my reviewsThis review is First Pentecost and the spread of Christianity (Hardcover) When I first read this book years ago, it was of immense help to me in my understanding of the book of Acts. Paul Meir's presentation of the background to the biblical events proved both educational and frankly fascinating. I read it repeatedly over the years, and it always seemed to be a fresh, new reading. I made the mistake of loaning it to someone (I've long since forgotten who) who never returned it, and now it's unfortunatey out of print. But thank God for Amazon, who has just found a copy for me! I will treasure it among my collection of Bible study aids, and recommend it to everyone reading this review. God's peace be with you!

Genres: History, Christian, Nonfiction, Church History

160 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 1976

About the author

Paul L. Maier was an American historian and novelist. He wrote several works of scholarly and popular non-fiction about Christianity and novels about Christian historians. He was the Russell H. Seibert Professor of Ancient History at Western Michigan University, from which he retired in 2011, retaining the title of professor emeritus in the Department of History. He previously served as Third Vice President of the Lutheran Church–Missouri Synod.

Reviews

[Mwrogers · Rating 4 out of 5]

We have been using this book as the basis for our recent Sunday School lessons. Combines scripture with history and archeology. Very informative.

[Linda · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have read other books by Paul Maier. This is my favorite. Maier was a professor of Ancient History. He adds dimension to the stories of the first Christians I have not read before. This short book (160 pages) would be a great companion to any study of the book of Acts.

[Marilyn Pettigrove · Rating 4 out of 5]

T

[P · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fascinating little history book, going over the events of the book of Acts, and interweaving them with the missionary journeys of the apostle Paul and their corresponding letters from the New Testament. Accompanied by photos, a few charts, and plenty of references from extra-biblical historical sources, this book makes a good timeline of church history from about 33 AD through 68 AD. Very interesting & easy to read.