“A marvelous read!”
Rodney Stark, codirector, Institute for Studies of Religion, Baylor University
“Jim Papandrea has done it again. An eminent scholar and theologian of the church fathers who has also written about Christianity in popular cinema, blends his love of history with his passion for narrative tales. This unique work punctuates a wonderful fictional story with pithy lessons about the life of early Christians. Dr. Papandrea’s style makes this a great read for anyone from age 12 to 112. Bravo!”
Anthony Gill, author of The Political Origins of Religious Liberty
“James L. Papandrea’s imaginative narrative builds on a substantial amount of strong historical scholarship, yet it is presented in a fresh and unique way. Contemporary readers will sense both continuity and discontinuity between the earliest church and their own lives. When looking back at first century Christians in Rome, current practices of the faith amid modern cultural challenges appear both familiar and strange at the same time. One does not need to agree with every aspect of Papandrea’s imaginative narrative to benefit greatly from his historical re-creation. I occasionally teach a course in Rome and this is now a required textbook; any Christian visiting this great city should read this book before they go!”
Kelly M. Kapic, professor of theological studies, Covenant College