Product Description

Since its first publication in 1967, this collection of writings from the most important moments in the history of Christianity has established itself as a classic work. Now incorporating a wealth of new material, this new edition will be an essential reference source for anyone interested in the history of the Christian Church.
While retaining the original material selected by Henry Bettenson, Chris Maunder has added a substantial section of more recent writings. These new entries illustrate the Second Vatican Council; the theologies of liberation; Church and State from 'Thatcher's Britain' to Communist Eastern Europe; Black, feminist, and ecological theology; ecumenism; and inter-faith dialogue. The emphasis on moral debate in the contemporary Churches is reflected in selections dealing with modern issues such as homosexuality, divorce, AIDS, and in-vitro fertilization. With the publication of this new edition, Documents of the Christian Church provides insights into the whole 2000 years of Christian theological and political debate.

Product Details

• Amazon Sales Rank: #7747 in Books
• Published on: 1999-09-16
• Original language: English
• Number of items: 1
• Binding: Paperback
• 496 pages

Review
"Extremely useful for students of Church history because it gives them exposure to the primary texts upon which their textbook accounts are based."--John Mackett, Elmbrook Christian Study Center

"A fine collection of the most important source materials for the history of Christianity."--The Christian Century

"No student of church history can afford to be without it."--The Churchman

"Excellent illustrative and primary source material."--Terry A. Chaney, Ozark Christian College

"'Documents' is a time-proven collection of some of the most significant writings in the history of Christianity. This compilation leads the earnest student of church history beyond second-hand appropriation and straight into the character and spirit of the people and movements which have given shape to the Church of Christ through the ages."--Brad Creed, George W. Truett Theological Seminary

"Very good on early reformation church historical documents. Would like to have seen more material related to American church history."--David C. Hard, Philadelphia College of Bible

"Great selection of sources."--Dr. Don Bowdle, Lee College

"A vital and concise source, along with narrative history, for hands-on encounter with the Christian tradition."--Professor David P. Whitelaw, Point Loma Nazarene College

"Text ranks with the classics, in pulling together into one volume a multiplied number of significant quotes and historic documents from throughout Church History."--Melvin H. Shoemaker, Azuso Pacific University

About the Author

Chris Maunder is Senior Lecturer in Theology and Religious Studies at the University College of Ripon and York St John.

Customer Reviews

Some Observations
I agree with other reviewers that this is an indispensable volume for anyone studying the history of Christianity. Also, the use of primary sources, which is a hallmark of the classical school movement, allows you to examine the actual words of a document rather than having it filtered through someone else's point of view. I realize not every document could be included, but I was disappointed that Urban II's speech calling for the Crusades was not included as it has relevance to world politics today. Also, some longer works, such as The Rule of St. Benedict, have been ellipted so one must still look elsewhere to get the complete work. Still, this is a fabulous, reasonably priced volume to have at hand.

Books-Documents of the Christian Church
Just what I was looking for. It's a valuable resource.

detailed reference
This book is a good "topic reference" book. It is compiled of many original source writings. It is used in my seminary history class to supplement the main history text. A very good source for many topics.