After the Apostles: Christianity in the Second Century

Perhaps the most enigmatic period of the Christian era, the second century was nonetheless decisive for the survival and posture of the fledgling churches. Their scriptural canon, liturgical practices, church structure, doctrinal norms - all were forged in the tumult of this century.

Through deft use of available data and texts, Wagner brings this period to life. Selecting five fateful challenges - issues of Creation, human nature, Jesus' identities, roles of the church, and Christians in so...