Bullies and Saints

An Honest Look at the Good and Evil of Christian History

By: John Dickson

Narrated by: John Dickson

Is the world better off without Christianity?

Combining narrative with keen critique of contemporary debates, author and historian John Dickson gives an honest account of 2,000 years of Christian history that helps us understand what Christianity is and what it's meant to be.

To say that the Christian Church has an "image problem" doesn't quite capture it. From the Crusades and the Inquisition to the racism and abuse present in today's Church--both in Catholic and Protestant traditions--the institution that Christ established on earth has a lot to answer for. But the Church has also had moments throughout history when it has been in tune with Jesus' teachings--from the rise of charity to the invention of hospitals.

For defenders of the faith, it's important to be able to recognize the good and bad in the church's history and be inspired to live aligned with Christ. For skeptics, this book is a thought-provoking introduction to the idea that Christianity is, despite all, an essential foundation of our civilization.

Bullies and Saints will take you on a big-picture journey from the Sermon on the Mount to the modern church:

• Giving contextual accounts of infamous chapters of Christian history, such as the Crusades, and acknowledging their darkness.
• Outlining the great movements of the faith and defending its heroes and saints, some of whom are not commonly recognized.
• Examining the Church beside the teachings and life of Jesus and how it has succeeded in its mission to imitate Christ.

Christian’s should read this book!

I always love when an author narrates his own book and this did not disappoint. The church of Jesus suffers the more myopic it becomes. And the USA church is very myopic. I have been challenged recently to broaden my understanding of the church relative to geography and time. Dickson does a great job of letting us understand the good and bad of our history.

A masters of reflective criticism

Keen insight saturates this scholarly reflection of the Christian heritage. Ironically only a true Christian could so meticulously mourn his faith’s flaws even as he hums the original tune of the Nazerene

Covers a lot of history

The author packs a lot of history (education) in just a few hours of listening.

Refreshingly honest

This is an awesome book. As a Christian and Church goer I really appreciated the honest discussion of the good and the bad of Christianity throughout history. Thank you John Dickson.

Honest. Humbling. Inspiring.

Grateful for this fantastic book. The blend of historical work and thoughtful application was right on time. Enjoy.