The Story of the Church by Robert G. Clouse, Richard V. Pierard, Edwin M. Yamauchi

I have always been interested in church history, especially in the way it flowed down throughout the years, so The Story of the Church was a wonderful find for me (thrift store $1.99).  It was very easy to read, all 345 pages, with lots of pictures, maps and drawings.  The three scholars gave details on the growth of the church breaking it down into three sections.  Included was the persecutions, rival religious groups, pagan society, government, missionaries, reforms and much more that influenced the church. After reading this book, I felt like the present church is a part of the story in the making and actually sensed excitement as to the part of the story this church generation is bringing about and this gave hope and meaning to lots of the current issues.