131 Christians Everyone Should Know, a Review                

by: T. C. Pinckney                                                                                      Vol. XIII, No. 9, Nov/Dec 2000

131 Christians Everyone Should Know is written by the editors of Christian History magazine and has just been produced by the SBC publishing house, Broadman & Holman. Its format is unique in my experience, for it gives a two to three page summary of the life and work of each of 131 notable Christians. These individuals are grouped by the nature of their ministries: theologians; evangelists and apologists; pastors and preachers; musicians, artists, and writers; poets; denominational founders; movers and shakers; missionaries; inner travelers; activists; rulers; scholars and scientists; and martyrs. Each category contains eight to ten easy-read reviews.

An interesting and very helpful addition is that the book's early pages include a timeline running from 30 to 1989 a.d., and each biographical sketch starts with an excerpt from that timeline placing the subject person in historical context.

If you revel in detailed biography, this book is not for you. However, if you have often wished for a quick reference to provide a condensed precis of who an historical Christian was and what he did, 131 Christians Everyone Should Know is an excellent choice.

Christmas is near. This book would make an excellent gift, $14.99 at your Lifeway Baptist Bookstore.