Bullies and Saints
An Honest Look at the Good and Evil of Christian History
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Bullies and Saints
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Narrated by:
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John Dickson
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By:
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John Dickson
About this listen
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.
What listeners say about Bullies and Saints
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Overall5 out of 5 stars
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- Mrs. B C Murrill
- 26-08-2021
Great insights into historic Christianity
Well researched and insightful overview of the good the bad and the ugly parts of Christianity. Really worth getting to understand that no generation of Christians gave it right and we must keep going back to the source to express true faith in Jesus
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- Peter Spring
- 05-07-2023
Fair and Balanced Account
A very Fair and Balanced account of Christianity and it’s impact on human history and culture.
Exhaustively researched and very engagingly presented by the author.
Extremely insightful and informative.
Thank you John Dickson.
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Overall5 out of 5 stars
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- Anonymous User
- 29-08-2021
An honest account of Church history
I enjoyed but was challenged by John's account of Christian action in history. I found myself resonating with those who sought the good of others - singing the melody of Christ. At the same time I was saddened by those who abused their power to achieve what might have been considered good outcomes. Yet, I was challenged, have I done this myself? This book challenged my humility and made me want to ensure I wasn't caught up in my own view that thinks I know better than others and will forcefully put my view across.
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- Kirsten Anstey
- 15-11-2022
such a good listen
so helpful in understanding the realities of the past and buy us of many in a world today, without dodging the unchristian ways that many have lived
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- Zak F.
- 17-07-2021
Heartbreaking and Hopeful
John did a fantastic job at outlining the tragic and terrific history of the church. It seemed to me to be a reasonably balanced view considering his own convictions. The audio version was great too, very engaging.
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- Soph
- 23-10-2023
Balanced, well resourced
Great overview of the harms associated with Christianity. The author, as an ancient historian, is sincere and draws on sources from or close to that time. I recognise its not possible to “cover everything”. Would have liked a bit more on Christians and Judaism. Very brief on modern period - to be expected given author’s credentials.
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- Nate R
- 12-06-2022
Definitely worth your time
The documentary, ‘For the Love of God’, was my introduction to John Dickson, and it was a significant experience. ‘Bullies and Saints’ is an excellent deeper resource to dive into following that production. I learned things about church history that I didn’t know, and was equipped with a deeper understanding of many of the key moments of church history where the church was ‘out of tune’ of Jesus’ original melody for the church. Dickson takes moments to highlight the great contributions of the church over the centuries while also not shying away from the uglier, heartbreaking times of dissonance and the resulting controversies.
I also appreciate that the recording is done by Dickson - always nice to hear the author’s own delivery.
100% worth having a read/giving a listen.
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- Malcolm
- 18-09-2021
Excellent read for all about the history of the church
Fantastic book where Dickson evenhandedly evaluate the good, the bad and the ugly in church history. Christian or not, you will be surprised and challenged by how Christians have acted in the name of Jesus. And of course, the book is far the better for being read by John Dickson himself. Can’t recommend the book more highly!!
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- shk
- 26-02-2023
Thought provoking. Well read
This book gives an overview of the history of Christianity and the good and evil that has associated with this religion. I have enjoyed listening to it. In particular, I have found the final chapters very thought-provoking, I will recommend this book to my friends.
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- Anonymous User
- 30-10-2022
Enlightening reading.
I was always a Christian admitting to the church's guilt and bad reputation. now I know a bit better.
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