--A Book Review by Madeleine Glaser
Early Christian Traditions by Rebecca Lyman tells the compelling story of the early Christian church and how that history shaped the theology of the Anglican/Episcopal tradition. Lyman calls it a "brief introduction to the foundational era of Christian history (2)".
Lyman introduces the reader to the historical and cultural context that frames the church's teachings. Beginning with records from the first century, the author maps church history through the fifth century. This places the reader in a historical academic approach to the church's chronological time line. Lyman shows that history counts because it shapes our cultural, social, and religious beliefs and practices. When we embrace all that it teaches, we continue in that tradition and write the present church history, one that will be read and told by future generations.
Secondly, this book connects present Anglican traditions to early worship practices. Lyman challenges the reader to formulate a rationale for belief in a thought-provoking analysis of early Christian teaching and practice. Reading this book gives Christians a powerful tool with which to defend their belief in relationship to the ancient church’s teachings. Lyman documents the scores of scholars, aesthetics, and martyrs who have left this legacy for the benefit of all.
Finally, Lyman encourages the reader to examine his or her beliefs and to understand the reasons for tradition in worship practice. This book helps readers to appreciate the strength and resilience of the first Christians - their ability to endure and hold fast to their faith in spite of schisms begun with arguments over issues that presented apparent unresolvable differences. The church has proven its endurance in its resolve to preserve tradition. Just as a cactus in the desert which has burned black and appears dead has the restorative power to produce new growth from its roots and flower in the spring, the church will continue to live because it can trace its roots to the first Christians who left a record for all future believers.
Our modern day understanding of the church’s customs and beliefs is founded on a historical record dating back to the early Christians who formulated the creeds and customs of worship and faith. Read the book. Reflect upon its story. In its inspiring pages, you may discover the truth of history.
Rebecca Lyman, Early Christian Traditions. Boston: Cowley, 1999.
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