Unravel the long arc of Rome’s authority within the early church and see how power, unity, and doctrine tangled over the centuries.
This scholarly work traces how the Western see evolved in relation to its rivals and neighbors, from late antiquity into the early medieval era. It surveys key debates, councils, and figures to reveal the debates over papal authority, church unity, and the shaping of Christian communities across the Mediterranean world. The discussion draws on lectures that examine patristic writings, ecumenical councils, and the shifting bonds between Rome and the East, offering a clear, source-based view of how the Roman see came to its influential place in church history.
- A guided overview of the growth of papal power and its historical context.
- Close looks at major councils and pivotal moments in East–West relations.
- Biographical and doctrinal notes on influential church leaders and theologians.
- Structured, lecture-style analysis that connects events to broader church unity discussions.
Ideal for readers of church history, patristics, and students seeking a thorough, accessible account of Rome’s role in shaping the early Christian world.
The Primitive Saints: And the See of Rome