Church History in Plain Language, Fifth Edition: The Story of the Church for Today's Readers

Want to breeze through a survey of Christian Church History? This is the book. It is easy reading, and very informative.

I ordered this book because I am taking another Seminary course through our church. It came very highly recommended, and is an easy to read, story type of literature with many biographies, quotes and ties it together with the political and economical climate of the times from the first century church to the 21st century. The original version was written by Dr. Bruce Shelley around 1980. This 5th edition was completed by his son, Dr. Marshall Shelley in an even more familiar style. I have only begun this study and have also ordered the workbook. Many people know the Bible story and a few of the faithful saints over the next 2000 years, but to put it all together in its proper setting is not only eye opening, but soul stirring.

I got this as a book and audiobook. Narrator is a male and is easy to understand. The review of church history is thorough for a lay person. I found the style of writing engaging. I haven’t taken notes since I graduated college in 2007 but found myself doing so because there were SO many light bulbs of understanding was going on in my mind! I wholeheartedly recommend this book for anyone who wants to understand church history. Now on to a book that describes Eastern Thought and Culture during the 2nd Temple Era.

This book came recommended from my pastor. I enjoyed the content though at times it felt like it was a bit hard to read since the print is not very dark.

Great for school.

Great book. Anyone can understand it. Clearly this is a book all should have in there library. It answers all those questions as to why we have all these denominations and how the Catholic Church came about and the meaning of the word Catholic. It’s not a political book or religious just a history book of our origins.

good book

This provides a high level overview of Christian history. Its presentation is logical, concise and still challenging. Certainly some eras are stronger than others, but for an overview of those saints that went before us, please read.

it’s a great book with a lot of easy to read history of Christianity/“The Church”. Love the historical pictures and the Bible references as well. Would definitely recommend.

I strongly recommend this to every Christian. Church history makes it very clear that the church can only grow stronger.

Great read. Easy to understand

This book was so easy to read, and covered Christianity from the time of Jesus until now. It flowed like a grand story that we are all a part of. I loved it!