Redemption: The Church in Ancient Times (Luke H. Davis)

Redemption

The Church in Ancient Times (3 BC – 476 AD)

The story of the ancient Church is one of a people who were finding their way over many years by the light that God shined forth for them. Today, we are looking back over the centuries with many more years of understanding.  But we stand on the shoulders of those who braved persecution, death, debate, and mystery on behalf of generations to come.

For the early church persecution was so intense that a number of Christians were martyred. Bishops such as Ignatius, Polycarp, and Cyprian were among them.

The Church produced many great writers, thinkers, bishops, and pastors to offer deep and practical guidance. Justin Martyr, Tertullian, Origen, Athanasius, Ambrose, John Chrysostom, Jerome, and Augustine

From the Apostle Peter at Pentecost in Jerusalem to St. Patrick on the shores of Ireland in the year 432 – the ancient church has much to teach the church of today.

Book 1 in the Risen Hope Series

Book 1: Redemption (The Church in Ancient Times)
3 BC – 476 AD

Book 2: Reign (The Church in the Middle Ages)
476-1400

Book 3: Reform (The Church at the Birth of Protestantism)
1485–1600

Book 4: Renewal (The Church Expands Outward)
1600–1890

Book 5: Resolve (The Church that Endures Onward)
1890-2023

Endorsements

“Luke Davis has written a very accessible and enjoyable introduction to early church history.  An ideal starting point for anyone’s first plunge into those formative years of the church’s life, faith, and worship.”

— Nick Needham, Lecturer in Church History, Highland Theological College, Dingwall, Scotland and author of the 2,000 Years of Christ’s Power series

“A perfect family read-aloud or companion to world history studies for homeschoolers or Christian school students, or those who would like an initial foray into the often confusing and overwhelming realm of church history. This series makes it clear, enjoyably so.”

— Cathleen Smythe, Middle school teacher, former homeschooler and Children’s Ministry Director, Truth Point Church, Florida

“According to the Psalms, God’s people praise and glorify Him as they tell of His mighty acts from one generation to the next (Psalm 145:4).  Today the church is in need of storytellers who will teach the next generation the great things God has done through His people throughout the centuries.  With sparkling prose, backed by solid research, Luke Davis makes church history come alive for the young reader (and readers of all ages!).  What makes this work unique is that it offers engaging historical fiction but also provides timelines, factual summaries of significant figures and events, and insightful reflection. This is a powerful combination. You will be inspired to serve the Lord today, as you read of the trials and triumphs of the saints who have gone before us.  I look forward to sharing these stories with my children!”

— Ben Wagner, Anglican Church of the Resurrection, Chesterfield, Missouri

About the Author

Luke Herron Davis teaches ethics and church history at Westminster Christian Academy in St. Louis. He has authored books in the Cameron Ballack Mysteries and the Merivalkan Chronicles, as well as Tough Issues, True Hope. He has also penned lyrics to over seventy new hymns. Ordained in the Anglican Church, Luke and his wife Christi and family reside in St. Charles, Missouri.