List of IllustrationsPrefaceCh. 1Conversion and Christian Growth3Ch. 2The Class Basis of Early Christianity29Ch. 3The Mission to the Jews: Why It Probably Succeeded49Ch. 4Epidemics, Networks, and Conversion73Ch. 5The Role of Women in Christian Growth95Ch. 6Christianizing the Urban Empire: A Quantitative Approach129Ch. 7Urban Chaos and Crisis: The Case of Antioch147Ch. 8The Martyrs: Sacrifice as Rational Choice163Ch. 9Opportunity and Organization191Ch. 10A Brief Reflection on Virtue209Notes217Bibliography223Index243
This brilliant and highly provocative book will revolutionize the way people think about both biblical studies and church history. -- Irving Hexham A provocative, insightful, challenging account... It is marvelous exercise in sociological imagination and a warning to those who like simple explanations. -- Andrew M. Greeley
Rodney Stark (1934–2022) was Distinguished Professor of the Social Sciences at Baylor University, where he was former codirector of the Institute for Studies of Religion. His many books include The Churching of America, 1776-1990 (with Roger Finke) and A Theory of Religion (with William Sims Bainbridge).
"This book is an exciting and important addition to the literature on early Christianity... It is a book of fascinating detail, yet its broad sociological assumptions will intrigue any person interested in church growth. It will challenge common theological assumptions. But, its creative and persuasive insights also will engage the thoughtful person. It is a very significant book."--Choice "Stark provides compelling reading, adding depth and coherence to the often nebulous hyperbole of historical hypotheses."--Library Journal "... likely to generate spirited argument."--Publishers Weekly
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