A fascinating history that reveals Christianity’s roots, its often-unknown and surprising traditions, and its influence on the world today. There is the accepted, often-repeated version of Christian history—and then there’s the real story. In this gripping volume, author J. Steven Paul uncovers the little-known details of the world’s largest religion. How did Christianity originate? Who created its earliest writings? Who decided which books would be in the Bible? Where did the ideas of heaven and hell originate, and when did people begin taking the Bible literally? How did Christianity evolve and fracture into the many forms it takes today? From fascinating background on its central tenets to curious details that have been largely swept under the rug, this comprehensive overview traces Christianity from ancient practices through its centuries-long rise in popularity, power, influence, and dominance. Paul’s detailed account sheds light on doctrine, dogma, and traditions, observing Christianity’s interaction with related faiths, including Judaism, Islam, “heretical” Christian sects, and atheism. Paul outlines how this once-tiny religious cult has shaped centuries of Western civilization and inspired great acts of compassion and kindness. But, in the process, it also viciously attacked its enemies, legitimized the practice of slavery, and collaborated in colonialism and imperialism while shaping the way communities continue to view social and scientific issues. To understand Christian history is to unearth the roots of our current divisive American culture—and hopefully find the tools to fix it in order to grow into a more cooperative society. "Offers a . . . nuanced history of Christianity featuring events and details that are . . . often glossed over by Christians of various denominations. . . . Paul writes in a style effectively geared to evangelical laypeople who, like him, are uncomfortable with what they see as their church's pat answers to difficult questions. . . . The book provide[s] evangelical and traditionalist Christians with a historical overview that explores its subject matter in a meaningful way. "A comprehensive account of Christianity's varied history." — Kirkus Reviews "Much of everything you've ever wondered about Christian history is summarily answered in In Search of Christian Origins . J. Stephen Paul has compiled a treasure trove of forgotten roots and historical milestones bookended by his own illuminating reflections. An invaluable reference book to understand how Christian beliefs, practices, and movements originated and evolved. Will help many rethink Christianity and distinguish man-made religion from Jesus' love ethic. Highly recommended." —Michael Camp, author of Craft Brewed Jesus: How History We Never Knew Taps a Spirituality We Really Need and podcaster at The Spiritual Brewpub "Wow, Steve, you really did your homework! For folks who want to know in detail where the Christianity that still shapes so much of our national conversation came from, the story you tell will be invaluable." —Bart Campolo, co-author of Why I Left, Why I Stayed: Conversations on Christianity Between an Evangelical Father and His Humanist Son