3-EN ( 英文 ), 0300-Missionary ( 宣教研究 ), 0330-教會歷史 

This "fresh, blunt, and highly persuasive account of how the West was won—for Jesus" (Newsweek) is now available in paperback. Stark's provocative report challenges conventional wisdom and finds that Christianity's astounding dominance of the Western world arose from its offer of a better, more secure way of life.

"Compelling reading" (Library Journal) that is sure to "generate spirited argument" (Publishers Weekly), this account of Christianity's remarkable growth within the Roman Empire is the subject of much fanfare. "Anyone who has puzzled over Christianity's rise to dominance...must read it." says Yale University's Wayne A. Meeks, for The Rise of Christianity makes a compelling case for startling conclusions. Combining his expertise in social science with historical evidence, and his insight into contemporary religion's appeal, Stark finds that early Christianity attracted the privileged rather than the poor, that most early converts were women or marginalized Jews—and ultimately "that Christianity was a success because it proved those who joined it with a more appealing, more assuring, happier, and perhaps longer life" (Andrew M. Greeley, University of Chicago). 

Conversion and Christian growth -- The class basis of early Christianity -- The mission to the Jews : why it probably succeeded -- Epidemics, networks, and conversion -- The role of women in Christian growth -- Christianizing the urban empire : a quantitative approach -- Urban chaos and crisis : the case of Antioch -- The martyrs : sacrifice as rational choice -- Opportunity and organization -- A brief reflection on virtue.