The Spreading Flame - The Rise and Progress of Christianity from its First Beginnings to Eighth-Century England [Paperback] F. F. Bruce

Every Christian should read this book

Had to throw book away. A very strong musty smell

F.F. Bruce was a world-renowned author and editor. I have NEVER read a book of his that I didn't like. He was more New Testament, H.L. Ellison of the same Plymouth Brethren denomination was more Old Testament, oriented in their publications, although Bruce did some O.T. also.This book is a true inspiration for small group Bible study and / or worship in that style , if nothing else.It perhaps is the progenitor of his later New Testament History which is more hum-drum academically based, whereas this has a more personal tone to it. His New International NIV commentary on Acts in English has some of the same kind of material in it. The other books of his which I particularly cherish fondly are Isral & the Nations , NIV English commentary on Hebrews , and The Message of the New Testament -- which the latter is short but neat and revealing.

With so many churches aspiring to become an "Acts church" I recently became intrigued by early church history and I heard this book would be a superb read from a reliable source. I will begin reading after the 4th.

I absolutely love this book. Unfortunately it is out-of-print. Dr. Bruce guides you through the early history of the Church using Acts as his backdrop. If you want to get a real feel for the evangelistic fervor of the Apostles and the early Christians you NEED to read this tome.