The Christian faith is rich and complex, spanning thousands of years and reaching into the lives of people all over the globe. When studying this grand faith, one should begin with the essentials, like Christianity's historical roots and development, the distinctiveness of its worldview, and its response to tough cultural and ethical issues.

In this volume, author James Eckman first walks readers through the defining moments, theological process, and institutional development of the church-from the day of Pentecost, through the Reformation and Enlightenment, and to the modern age. He then examines a variety of popular belief systems such as Buddhism, Judaism, Islam, Roman Catholicism, and specific cults and then offers, in contrast, a compelling look at Christianity's distinctives. Finally, Eckman presents the important difference between ethics and morals and suggests a modern-day ethical strategy that views hot-button issues like abortion, euthanasia, bioethics, war, capital punishment, and the environment through the lens of Scripture.

With brief chapters and thought-provoking questions, this book is perfect for personal or group study. It provides an introductory understanding of the richness of the faith and the church for you or your small group.