From Jerusalem to Timbuktu: A World Tour of the Spread of Christianity

Christianity started in Jerusalem. For many centuries it was concentrated in the West, in Europe and North America. But in the past century the church expanded rapidly across Africa, Latin America, and Asia. Thus Christianity's geographic center of density is now in the West African country of Mali - in Timbuktu.

What led to the church's vibrant growth throughout the Global South? Brian Stiller identifies five key factors that have shaped the church, from a renewed openness to the move of the Holy Spirit to the empowerment of indigenous leadership. While in some areas Christianity is embattled and threatened, in many places it is flourishing as never before.

Discover the surprising story of the global advance of the gospel. And be encouraged that Jesus' witness continues to the ends of the earth.

REVIEWS

"The church is growing around the world! Believe it or not, Christianity is stronger than ever and is thriving in unexpected places. In this behind-the-scenes exploration of the global church, Brian Stiller describes and gives examples of what's driving this remarkable expansion of Christianity. Be encouraged. Christian faith is alive and well around the world."

• Ed Stetzer, executive director of the Billy Graham Center for Evangelism, Wheaton College

"It is important for us to be firmly planted in the context where God has called us to live and serve. But for our own health, we sometimes need to take a few steps back and look at the big picture of what is happening with God's people in the rest of the world. This book serves this purpose admirably. As we read, we are sometimes thrilled, sometimes sobered, and always we find lessons to help us in our life and witness. But this is not only a historical survey. Undergirding what is said are deeply sensitive reflections on the theological issues facing the church today as illustrated by the events reported. Brian Stiller's wide experience as a global ambassador for evangelicals and his considerable learning are combined to give an inspiring and instructive book. "

• Ajith Fernando, teaching director, Youth for Christ, Sri Lanka

"From Jerusalem to Timbuktu offers an expansive introduction to the momentous fact that the majority of Christians now live in the Global South. Stiller helps us understand the multifaceted implications of this reality and presents a vigorous invitation to embrace the future of Christianity. Important."

• Ronald J. Sider, distinguished professor of theology, holistic ministry, and public policy, Palmer Seminary at Eastern University

"This book tells the exciting story of why Christianity continues to grow at a phenomenal rate in the twenty-first century - this despite setbacks, persecutions, and the dying of the light in lands where biblical faith was once vibrant and strong. Brian Stiller is a world Christian statesman and he tells this story with passion, insight, and in the power of the Spirit. Highly recommended!"

• Timothy George, founding dean of Beeson Divinity School, Samford University, general editor, the Reformation Commentary on Scripture

Publisher Description

:Christianity started in Jerusalem. For many centuries it was concentrated in the West, in Europe and North America. But in the past century the church expanded rapidly across Africa, Latin America, and Asia. Thus Christianity's geographic center of density is now in the West African country of Mali-in Timbuktu. What led to the church's vibrant growth throughout the Global South? Brian Stiller identifies five key factors that have shaped the church, from a renewed openness to the move of the Holy Spirit to the empowerment of indigenous leadership. While in some areas Christianity is embattled and threatened, in many places it is flourishing as never before. Discover the surprising story of the global advance of the gospel. And be encouraged that Jesus' witness continues to the ends of the earth.