Rodney Stark, The Rise of Christianity: How the Obscure, Marginal Jesus Movement Became the Dominant Religious Force in the Western World in a Few Centuries (aff). (New York: Harper One, 1996). 246 pages.
This book by Rodney Stark, Christian sociologist and professor of sociology and comparative religion at the University of Washington, examines sociological reasons for Christianity’s rapid rise within the Roman Empire. He argues that its popularity was unlikely. The pagan religion was deeply entrenched in the ancient world. Judaism was widespread, and many new religions constantly attempted to enter the “market.”
Stark dissects various factors he believes helped catapult Christianity to popularity. He estimates that there were only around 1,000 Christians in the entire world by 40 AD. I believe this number is low, as does he (11). If 3,000 were added to the church at Pentecost, then clearly that figure is too low. He argues, conservatively, that by the 4th century there were six million Christians, which demonstrates a 40% per decade growth rate (5-6). This increase is not as “explosive” as one may assume, but it would be significant over time.
Stark challenges the assumption that the movement grew rapidly because Christians proclaimed the truth (which they did!). He notes that his studies demonstrate that religious movements grow through established relationship patterns (18). He points out that converts to new religions generally come from irreligious backgrounds (19). He also discusses “closed” and “open” networks. Christianity remained open to new adherents, whereas many movements soon become closed. He suggests that Christianity may have been based much more on the middle to upper classes than has traditionally been believed (33). He notes that cult members in America tend to skew toward above-average education levels. He claims, “In short, people must have a degree of privilege to have the sophistication to understand new religions and to recognize a need for them” (39). He believes Paul was most successful with the middle to upper classes.
Stark also suggests that the early church heavily evangelized the Jewish population as late as the fourth century (49). Stark notes that new religions grow when there is a “cultural continuity” (55). Christians accepted the Old Testament and were monotheists like the Jews. Many of their moral beliefs also coincided, so it was easier for Jews to convert to Christianity.
Stark includes an interesting discussion on epidemics and church growth, which is poignant considering the Covid-19 pandemic. He notes there were two major epidemics in 165 and 251 AD. The first was probably smallpox; the second was measles. Millions died each time (73). Stark argues that Christians handled the epidemics far better than pagans did. Whereas pagans fled the cities in terror, Christians remained and helped the sick. Many of them died. But because Christians ministered to the infirm, their survival rate was much higher than that of the general population. Additionally, numerous pagans converted due to the care they received from Christians. By the end of the epidemics, the percentage of Christians in the population increased. Stark quotes Emperor Julian chastising pagan priests for not being as brave as the Christians (83). Pagans didn’t generally believe in an afterlife. If a priest got sick, he had no hope of heaven. Crises tended to display the emptiness of some religions and the robustness and hope found in others.
Stark also contrasts Christian and pagan views of women. Romans routinely aborted female babies or committed infanticide. Christians opposed this practice. Christians tended to have more children, especially girls. Churches often had a surplus of women, which led many pagan men to marry them and eventually become Christians themselves. Stark demonstrates the high view Christians took toward women, which attracted many females. Christianity also valued children, so Christian birth rates tended to be much higher than that of pagans (115).
Stark then examines ancient cities. He argues that they tended to foster more unconventionality. They attracted people from various cultures, and new residents tended to be open to new religions. Unsurprisingly, Paul and others had much more success in cities than in rural areas.
Stark also unpacks how martyrdom affected church growth. He claims fewer people died in the Roman persecutions than is typically assumed (163). He notes that many secular sociologists believe Christians were masochistic fanatics who sought martyrdom. Stark points out that Christianity offered great rewards while demanding a high level of commitment. Overall, he argues, Christianity was the best “bargain” around (167). He suggests many religions suffer from the “free rider” problem, in which people hang around for the services provided but contribute little in return. This behavior was unlikely among Christians, as persecutions chased away the uncommitted.
Stark makes several interesting points about the rise of Christianity. He doesn’t dismiss the truth of the Gospel or the power of the Holy Spirit, but he notes how much of Christianity’s popularity was due to its unique approach to many issues in the ancient world.
I’m not a sociologist, and I’m often skeptical of their studies. I side with scripture when sociology challenges biblical teachings. Nevertheless, religion involves people, and humanity’s tendencies are static throughout generations. This book, especially considering Covid-19, shed light on how the church ought to operate today. Some experts urge churches to adapt to cultural trends. But history demonstrates that Christianity gained a rapid following because it differed from mainstream culture.
I recommend this book. I have read several of Stark’s works, and they are always stimulating. He isn’t afraid to challenge assumptions, which is refreshing.
Rating: 3
