David W Kling Knihy

In this first in-depth and wide-ranging history of Christian conversion, David Kling examines the dynamic of turning to the Christian faith by individuals, families, and people groups. Global in reach and engaging recent methods and theories in conversion studies, the narrative progresses from early Christian beginnings in the Roman world to Christianity's expansion into Europe, the Americas, China, India, and Africa. Although conversion is often associated with a particular strand of modern Christianity (evangelical) and a particular type of experience (sudden, overwhelming), when examined over two millennia, it emerges as a phenomenon far more complex than any one-dimensional profile would suggest.

This book explores the intricate relationship between Scripture and the social and cultural contexts that have influenced its interpretation throughout Western history. It highlights how biblical texts have shaped societal movements while simultaneously being shaped by the times. The narrative follows specific verses, chapters, and portions of Scripture that have inspired transformative movements across history. Each chapter is structured like an hourglass, focusing on a pivotal moment where a text is reinterpreted, serving as the central theme. Text selection criteria include their historical significance in Christianity, the diversity of traditions, and the various interpretive strategies that reflect a range of exegetical and hermeneutical approaches. The ten chapters cover significant events, such as Anthony's desert call inspired by Matthew 19:21, the biblical basis for the papacy in Matthew 16:18, Bernard of Clairvaux's reflections on the Song of Songs, and the impact of Romans 1:16-17 on Martin Luther. Other topics include the Anabaptist non-violent ethic from the Sermon on the Mount, the exodus motif in African American history, the origins of modern Pentecostalism, Galatians 3:28's support for women's ministry, the missionary motivation from the "Great Commission" in Matthew 28:18-20, and the ongoing debate surrounding biblical texts on male homosexuality.