Petition for more book talk

[En Kristo]

This one piqued my interest given our dark days.

Can yo possibly give more detail regarding it? Thank you in advance, brother.

From Shame to Sin: The Christian Transformation of Sexual Morality in Late Antiquity by Kyle Harper

As a consequence of his studies of ancient pagan civilization, Kyle Harper was put off by pagan ethics, or lack thereof. Western civilization is radically different, much more humane and virtuous. It was obvious that what accounted for the enormous improvement was Christianity. From my perspective, the book provided specific examples of how Christ redeemed the culture; through the covenant that God made with Abraham, every family of the world has indeed been blessed.

What intrigued me about this book is that it was written by a historian who isn't particularly religious, but who nevertheless came to the conclusion that Christianity profoundly influenced western culture and for the good. The first couple chapters of the book describe ancient pagan attitudes towards sexual relations - not an easy read. They are particularly disgusting in light of the fact that we are rapidly returning to the pagan culture from which Christ freed us.

 

[Theoretical]

I've been enjoying Michael Haykin's Iron Sharpens Iron: Friendship and the Grace of God for its interesting look at several evangelical English men's friendships in the 18th Century, as well as Christian friendship more broadly. One of the things I appreciate about Haykin is how he can deftly address both the macro and the micro sides of Church history, bringing to light quite a number of men and women who'd otherwise be forgotten.