What Christianity Has Done for the World

By Rose Publishing

A recent study concluded that Christianity’s image is the United States is declining, especially among young people. Only 16% of non-Christians between the ages of 16 and 29 have a good impression of Christianity according to Barna Research. Evangelicals come under the severest criticism, with only 3% of 16-29 year-olds having a favorable view of this group of Christians.

This pamphlet was written to show this generation some of the good deeds that Christians have done over the past 2000 years. The Scriptures say that even non-Christians will glorify God when they see the kindness and good works done by Christians (Matthew 5:16; 1 Peter 2:12)

It includes dozens of examples, from the abolition of slavery in England to advances in medicine and science. Includes specifics about educating the poor, feeding the hungry, caring for lepers, and reforming laws to protect the weak. This is a valuable reference guide—buy one for a skeptical friend and another for yourself. Examples are taken from art, literature, science, medicine, law, education, philosophy, charity, and equality for all people.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Tyndale House Publishers
• Release date: Mar 1, 2014
• ISBN: 9781628621068

Book preview

What Christianity Has Done for the World

Jesus said, For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in, I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to visit me … whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did for me.

—Matthew 25: 35-36, 40

Acts of Compassion

Following the example of these powerful words of Jesus, Christians throughout the centuries have reached out with love to those in need especially the poor, weak, and needy.

During the Roman Empire, families were encouraged to abandon unwanted children and allow infants to die. Christians spoke against these acts; they rescued infants, cared for orphans, widows, and the outcasts of society.

Despite their own need, early Christians voluntarily pooled their resources¹ and the church’s property² in order to support orphans, widows, the sick, prisoners, the disabled, and others in need of help.

Basil of Caesarea and St. Chrysostom of Constantinople (4th century): Both "urged the construction of orphanotrophia"² to care for orphans. This was part of a trend within Christianity, from its earliest days, to care for orphans and others who were helpless.