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"Christianity The First 2,000 Years" was produced as an A&E documentary and released in October of 2001. At 6 hours and 40 minutes in length, these DVDs give a general overview of how the original church was established and the people and events that played an important part in Christian history. Many people either love it for its overview or hate it for its errors.

On the positive side, these DVDs examine the historical background of the church, why it split into eastern (Orthodox) and western (Roman) factions and how the role of Christianity in the imperial family allowed it to grow and spread faster than it otherwise would have. There are many interviews with scholars, reenactments, photographs and music which allow the viewer to be introduced to the early church, its problems and the ideas of those who established it and kept it from falling into obsolescence. Ancient texts and scripture are examined to elicit the truth of Christian beginnings while visits to historical Christian sites are explored to give the viewer a feeling of connection to events which occurred two millennia ago. It is important to remember, however, that the purpose of these DVDs is not necessarily to study the Bible, its history or specific ideas behind Christianity. As such, weighty theological issues are not presented in-depth. The viewer is given, however, ideas of where to start exploring if they want answers to their more penetrating questions. Overall, this documentary gives an overview and starting place for students of history and theology to begin deeper research.

On the negative side, this production contains several errors which could 1.) lead the uninformed to incorrect conclusions and 2.) irritate those who are deeply knowledgeable on Christianity and its roots. One of the most noticeable errors is the statement that James was left as leader of the Church. The great majority of scholars and theologians today believe Peter was charged with leading the Church. Another error is that Pope Pious XII did nothing to save the Jews. In fact, he saved 800,000 people in various ways from persecution and death. Also, the term "Catholic Church" isn't mentioned until the second DVD which starts with the year 1000. However, the term was first coined by Ignatius, the disciple of John the apostle, in the second century. He used this term to distinguish between heretics and those of the Orthodox Church. Other errors exist but to those who know better, these are ones that are particularly exasperating.

Errors exist in this documentary, but in general, it is a good introduction to Jesus and the Church's history. It is not, however, complete enough or in-depth enough for those already deeply familiar with the events and people surrounding the establishment and rise of the Church.

Learn more about this author, R Anderson.
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