Roots, Rupture, Renewal: How Christianity changed, and is returning to its Apostolic roots

Christianity has never stood still. It has grown, fractured, reformed, revived, and now, after two thousand years, is returning to the simplicity and supernatural life of its Apostolic roots. Roots, Rupture, Renewal traces the sweeping story of Christian history with clarity and depth, revealing how the church moved from the vibrant, Spirit-filled communities of the first century into institutional power, medieval hierarchy, Reformation upheaval, Enlightenment scepticism, revival fire, Pentecostal outpouring, and the modern search for authentic faith. Across this journey, Jennifer Bramley uncovers the patterns that shaped the church, and the ruptures that changed it. From Constantine to Luther, from Wesley to Azusa Street, from Darby and Scofield to the Charismatic and Apostolic movements of today, this book shows how Christianity has continually reinvented itself while carrying the seeds of its original DNA. This is the story of how Christianity changed and how it is returning to the life, power, and simplicity of the early church. Readers will discover a summary showing: - how the Apostolic church functioned before institutional structures- the major ruptures that reshaped Christian belief and practice- the surprising influence of Enlightenment thinking on modern theology- how revival, Pentecostalism, and the Charismatic movement restored supernatural Christianity- why today's global Apostolic and house-church movements resemble the first-century church more than ever- where Christianity may be heading next- a comprehensive Bibliography for further reading on any chapter.Roots, Rupture, Renewal is both historical and hopeful, a clear, compelling narrative for believers who sense that God is calling His church back to its origins. If you've ever wondered how we got here and where the church may be going, this book will give you the map.