"An
exciting, engaging and intellectually serious book that gives a really
comprehensive picture of how Christians behave, what they think and how they
believe their faith makes a difference in today’s world. John Young
offers us a first-class survey of doctrine and history along with a sympathetic
account of prayer and ethics as Christians understand them." Dr
Rowan Williams, Archbishop of Canterbury.
'This is a well-researched, accessible guide to the central themes of the Christian faith. It is not only a useful resource to those exploring Christianity for the first time, but I'm sure experienced believers will find it a most invaluable point of reference.'
The Archbishop of York, John Sentamu
'This important book ... a warts and all presentation of the Christian faith. It is highly readable and gives the reader access to the heart of the Christian story'.
The Bishop of Liverpool, James Jones
'I am very happy to commend this comprehensive work.'
The Cardinal Archbishop of Westminster, Cormac Murphy-O'Connor
'...not only informs, it excites, and in doing so invites the reader on a journey of discovery'
Dr David Hope, former Archbishop of York
'Excellent material ... timely and right on target. There is a crying need for such a book.'
Bishop Michael Marshall
'An amazing compilation ... Brilliant!'
Dr Peter Brierley, Executive Director of
Christian Research
The author
The Reverend Canon John Young is a Canon Emeritus of York Minster and has written over twenty books/booklets. His work is in several languages, including Chinese and Russian.
About the book
Now in its fourth edition, this paperback in the popular
Teach Yourself... series has established itself as a standard text. The term 'standard text' might give the impression 'dry as dust'. Dr David Hope's comments (above) make clear that this is not the case.
This inexpensive paperback covers a wide range of topics. Some are predictable - there are chapters on Jesus Christ's life, teaching, death and resurrection; on the Bible; on Christian experience of God; prayer and worship; church history. In addition there are chapters on facing death; Christian faith in a scientific age; the Church in society, art and architecture, music and literature.
The Glossary and comprehensive Index ensure that the book can be used for reference purposes, as well as being enjoyed by the interested reader who wants an accessible introduction to Christianity.
The book has 21 Chapters and is divided into 5 Parts:
1 The Central Figure
2 Christian Belief and Practice
3 The Christian Church
4 Key Events in Church History
5 A Great Inheritance