The Story

This book picks up where the medieval church left off and runs straight into the modern age. It follows the chain reaction started by Martin Luther and other reformers, showing how splitting the church in Europe led to wars, new nations, and entirely new ways of thinking. The story doesn't stop there. Kurtz then tracks how Christianity spread across the globe, faced the challenges of science and reason, and tried to find its place in a world that was changing faster than ever before.

Why You Should Read It

What I love about this volume is how it makes sense of our current moment. Reading about the fierce debates over scripture and authority during the Reformation, you'll see the roots of today's religious discussions. Kurtz shows how the church's story is messy, full of both inspiring courage and human failure. It helps you understand why certain Christian groups believe and act the way they do today, tracing their lineage back through these huge historical shifts.

Final Verdict

This is for the curious reader who wants to look behind the curtain. It's perfect if you enjoy history, but are tired of dry facts and dates. You'll get the most out of it if you have a basic idea of key events like the Protestant Reformation. While it's a serious history book, Kurtz's clear writing makes a complex story accessible. Be ready for a deep dive, but one that's genuinely rewarding and eye-opening.