Church History, Vol. 3 of 3 by J.H. Kurtz is an incredibly comprehensive and insightful account of the history of the Christian Church. This final volume, as part of a trilogy series, delves into the period from the Reformation to the present day, offering readers a deep understanding of the Church's journey through time.
One of the most striking aspects of Kurtz's book is his ability to present historical facts in a captivating and engaging manner. His writing style is concise yet filled with richness, making the often complex subject matter accessible to both scholars and general readers. Kurtz's extensive research is evident, as he covers a wide range of topics including major religious movements, theological debates, and influential figures.
The author's unbiased approach is another commendable aspect of this book. Kurtz successfully presents the history of the Church without emphasizing a particular denominational perspective, allowing readers to form their own opinions and interpretations. This objective approach adds to the book's credibility and ensures that readers of different faith backgrounds can benefit from its contents.
Notably, Kurtz emphasizes the significance of the Reformation and its lasting impact on Christianity. He explores the theological differences between Protestantism and Catholicism, shedding light on the historical events and ideas that shaped these distinct branches of the Church. By providing historical context to the key theological doctrines, he enables readers to grasp the reasons behind the divisions within Christianity and to appreciate the diverse traditions that exist today.
Furthermore, Kurtz includes lesser-known anecdotes and lesser-known aspects of Church history, keeping the narrative fresh and intriguing. This attention to detail not only makes the reading experience more enjoyable but also adds depth to the understanding of the historical context in which significant events unfolded.
One potential drawback of this book is its length, as it can be quite intimidating for readers who are not already familiar with Church history. However, its thoroughness is also one of its strengths, as it ensures that readers gain a comprehensive understanding of the subject matter.
Overall, Church History, Vol. 3 of 3 by J.H. Kurtz is a remarkable achievement. It is a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the progression of Christianity over time. Kurtz's meticulous research, engaging writing style, and objective approach make this book an invaluable resource for both scholars and enthusiasts alike. Whether you have a strong theological background or are simply curious about the history of the Church, this book will undoubtedly provide you with a wealth of knowledge and a newfound appreciation for the fascinating journey of Christianity.
First Page:
Church History By
Professor J. H. Kurtz
Authorized Translation From Latest Revised Edition by the
Rev. John MacPherson, M.A.
In Three Volumes. Vol. III.
Second Edition
London: Hodder and Stoughton
1893
CONTENTS
Second Section. Church History Of The Seventeenth Century. I. Relations between the Different Churches. § 152. East and West. § 153. Catholicism and Protestantism. § 154. Lutheranism and Calvinism. § 155. Anglicanism and Puritanism. II. The Roman Catholic Church. § 156. The Papacy, Monkery, and Foreign Missions. § 157. Quietism and Jansenism. § 158. Science and Art in the Catholic Church. III. The Lutheran Church. § 159. Orthodoxy and its Battles. § 160. The Religious Life. IV. The Reformed Church. § 161. Theology and its Battles. § 162. The Religious Life. V. Anti and Extra Ecclesiastical Parties. § 163. Sects and Fanatics. § 164. Philosophers and Freethinkers. Third Section. Church History Of The Eighteenth Century... Continue reading book >>