The Early Church course provides more than an introduction to church history. It helps people ask the key questions Christians have faced over two millennia - and provides answers for those questions for today.

Click on the order button below to download this Christian History Study as a Word file. You can choose individual studies or the complete course.

You do not have to be a historian or seminary graduate to teach this course successfully. Concepts and events are explained fully, and as a leader you get helpful background material. Plus, each session gives you everything you need--activities, presentation points, discussion starters, and questions.

The Early Church contains at least six weeks of material for your Sunday school class or Bible study - and can be downloaded for your immediate use:

Session 1 - Paul and His Times - FREE!
The apostle Paul was the church's greatest missionary.

Session 2 - Early Martyrs
In the first three centuries, many Christians courageously gave their lives to testify to the lordship of Jesus Christ.

Session 3 - Defenders of the Faith
When the early Christians were attacked by pagan critics, articulate individuals rose up to defend Christianity.

Session 4 - The Search for Spiritual Christianity
As a result of the Montanist controversy of the second and third centuries, the church was forced to grapple with what it means to be a true Christian.

Session 5 - Worship in the Early Church
Our worship practices today have roots deep in the life of the early church.

Session 6 - The Lifestyle of Early Christians
The faith of the early Christians shaped their social, economic, and political activities.

Conclusion - What the Early Church Teaches Us

Each session begins with a Key Question and a few paragraphs of context. This tells you what the session is about.

Next, the Preparation section tells you what is included in each session. Most sessions use articles from the award-winning Christian History magazine--and they're included FREE with your lesson. Other sessions provide a short reading or handouts you can photocopy for the group.

The Class Section guides you through the study in four steps - Opening, Historical Setting, Application, and Closing.

- Each study lasts between 45 and 70 minutes.
- Preparation time may take up to 60 minutes.
- Total number of pages for all 6 sessions - 79
- Files can be easily saved, edited, and printed. For questions, e-mail CBSStore@ChristianityToday.com.

You have permission to make up to 1,000 copies for use in your local church.