The Eastern Empire & Eastern Christianity

AUTHOR
Peter Roennfeldt

SYNOPSIS

In this book you will learn of a very different and largely unknown history of the Christian church. In the first centuries Christianity spread south and east, with Christianity becoming dominant across vast areas of Asia—but that is now mostly unknown for those countries were de-Christianised and the church disappeared. Follow the mostly unknown story of the 1000-year supremacy of Eastern Christianity and its reshaping of faith, church and mission. Track the beginnings of Christendom in the East, and its defining impact on Christian nationalism, supremacy and dominionism—which are rising again to control society and culture.

Peter Roennfeldt writes, “Christian nationalism, supremacy and dominionism are rising like ghosts from the Eastern Roman Empire to control and reshape global society and culture today!” Hear the call of this book to return to the Jesus of the gospels and His foundation for His church through the presence of the Holy Spirit.

BOOK REVIEWS

“A fascinating read. It provides a totally different perspective. A book I will share.”—Maureen Barnes, teacher, administrative secretary and research assistant

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“Peter Roennfeldt looks at the dramatic changes that took place in eastern Christianity in the areas of church, faith, and mission. This brief and fascinating survey of sometimes neglected aspects of Christian history give us new eyes to discern some of the theological, ecclesiological, missiological and political issues we are facing today.”—Dr Anthony MacPherson, Lecturer in Theology, Avondale University Seminary

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“While a survey of much of the contemporary landscape of visible Christianity can be discouraging, to recognise the depth and weight of history that has got us to this point is even more overwhelming. That was my first response to reading this little book. But there is hope—to adapt from Narnia, there is a deeper and older truth from the dawn of Christian faith. This is the ultimate call of this book: back to the Jesus of the gospels and His foundation for His church through the presence of the Holy Spirit. Confronting Christian nationalism, prosperity preaching and Christian superstitionism, the stories, teachings and hope of Jesus are our best response—and they are enough.”—Nathan Brown, author, Practising Justice

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“Peter Roennfeldt’s new book provides a stimulating journey of the Christian faith from the Eastern Empire to the contemporary Global South and North. He is spot on; this history has often been neglected! The book has rich historical, theological and practical insights that cause you to pause, reflect and assess your understanding, your local church and what God is up to in this world. The footnotes are very interesting with a number of acclaimed resources that are themselves worth exploring. Peter is a reliable guide with outstanding knowledge and deep experience to help us reflect on what is happening in contemporary Christianity, how the Holy Spirit has been leading in this world and, most importantly, how the Holy Spirit wants to lead each of us. Highly recommended!”—Dr Kayle de Waal, educator, author, Mission Shift: Multiplying Disciples in Your Community

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“This book is an insightful introduction to a compelling story, often overlooked by Western believers, of Eastern Christianity. Drawing from this rich history, it identifies key lessons, warnings, and inspiration for the life and mission of today’s church. I strongly recommend it to anyone concerned with what the church should mean in the 21st Century.” —Dr Gary Krause, director of Global Adventist Missions, author of God’s Great Missionaries.

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