An engaging and informative introduction to early church history will appeal to both students and interested laypeople and offers an account of early Christianity that pays special attention to non-Western events and leaders. Discover the Unity and Diversity of the Early Church The Christian church of the early centuries spread throughout much of Asia, Africa, and Europe, spoke many languages, was situated within diverse cultural settings, and had varied worship practices; yet it maintained a vital unity on core teachings. In The Global Church--The First Eight Centuries Video Lectures Donald Fairbairn helps learners understand both the unity and diversity of the church in this pivotal era by: Re-centering the story of the church in its early centuries, paying greater attention to Africa, Turkey, and Syria, where most of the church's intellectual energy was nurtured Highlighting Christian communities outside the Roman Empire, as far afield as Persia and India, alongside those within it Identifying key events by their global, not merely Western, significance and taking into account early Christian interactions with other religions, particularly Islam The Global Church--The First Eight Centuries Video Lectures is an ideal introduction to the patristic era that broadens the narrative often recounted and places it more firmly in its various cultural contexts. Students of early Christianity, formal and informal alike, will appreciate the fresh approach and depth of insight it provides. Show Less