112. Cultural Christianity

In this book, Ernest William Barnes examines the rise of Christianity using the methods of analytical scholarship and the principles of modern science. The work delves into the historical and theological aspects of Christianity, including the life and teachings of Jesus, the events of Passion Week, the resurrection faith, and the early Christian church. Barnes discusses these topics while maintaining a balance between scientific inquiry and theological interpretation.

Written between 413-426 CE, 'The City of God' is a response to pagan claims that the sack of Rome by barbarians was a consequence of the abolition of pagan worship by Christian emperors. Augustine argues that Christianity saved the city from complete destruction and that Rome’s fall was due to internal moral decay. The book divides humanity into two metaphorical cities: the City of God, characterized by devotion to God, and the City of Man, characterized by self-love. It also outlines Augustine’s theological interpretation of human history, from the Creation to the Second Coming of Christ, and critiques paganism and pagan philosophy while presenting the true history of the City of God[2][5][6].

Eusebius of Caesarea's "Ecclesiastical History" is a foundational work in early Christian historiography. It chronicles the history of the Christian Church from its origins to the early 4th century, providing valuable insights into the development of Christian doctrine, the lives of early Christians, and the relationship between the Church and the Roman Empire. The work is structured chronologically, covering major events, theological debates, and the lives of prominent figures. Eusebius's perspective is inherently Christian, shaping his interpretation of events and his selection of sources. The "Ecclesiastical History" remains a crucial primary source for understanding the early Church and its place in the Roman world.