A Short History of Christianity: Second Edition, Revised, With Additions

"A Short History of Christianity" by J. M. Robertson is a historical account written in the early 20th century. The book delves into the origins and development of Christianity, exploring its roots in Judaism, the various sects that emerged, and the socio-political influences that shaped its trajectory over centuries. It aims to provide a critical and condensed view of Christian history, positing that the narrative of Christianity has been heavily influenced by myth-making and the blending of different religious traditions. The opening of the book begins with Robertson discussing the challenges of succinctly presenting the complex history of Christianity. He highlights the nature of early Christian documentation, noting that the earliest texts, such as the Epistles of Paul, show a lack of knowledge of the gospel narratives and seem to focus more on the cult of a crucified Jesus rather than his teachings. He emphasizes that there was likely a significant gap between the alleged life of Jesus and the development of the narratives surrounding him, suggesting that these accounts were shaped by myth rather than strict historical fact. The author sets the stage for an exploration of how Christianity evolved from primitive beliefs into the established religion it is today, shaped by various cultural and intellectual currents over time.