CBB Review – Ministers and Martyrs: The Ultimate Guide to the Apostolic Age

A.D. The Bible Continues: Ministers & Martyrs tells the story of the early Church. Author Mike Aquilina takes us to the early days of Christianity to give the reader an overview of what exactly those first days after Pentecost were like. It serves as a great introduction to this period as well as the perfect companion book to the latest project from Mark Burnett and Roma Downey, A.D. The Bible Continues.

It becomes pretty evident in the early pages of the book that the Apostles, and in turn those who followed them, were led by something greater than themselves. Peter was the leader of the original Twelve….an unlikely candidate to lead this unlikely group of ordinary men who would do extraordinary things. No one could have imagined what was to follow after the Romans crucified Christ. Those in authority thought this movement led by Jesus was finished. “Jesus’ opponents felt sure that his execution would solve the problem that he had become. That was the way Roman authority typically dealt with troublesome religious movements – with exemplary public violence. Once the charismatic leaders were removed and the treasuries emptied, the followers usually lost their ardor for the cause.” That method may have worked in the past….but not this time.

The infant Church grew. The foundation Christ laid was a solid one and the Apostles he chose built upon that foundation taking the Good News to the far corners of the Roman Empire and beyond. Chapters are devoted to Peter’s role as the rock and the Apostles, the ones who were sent. Succession was a key component of how the Apostles assured the continuation of what they were building. “The Apostles established the life of the Church as a “tradition,” something “handed on” or “delivered” – something that the churches would have to hand on in turn”. The Apostles were the ones who went out and established churches which were in essence precursors to our modern day parishes. The Apostles setup the hierarchy of priests, deacons and bishops all overseen by the head of the Church, the first Pope, Peter. They made certain these positions were handed on from age to age to make sure the Church continued until the end of time.

Mike effectively details all of this and more. The early years of Christianity were not all roses……far from it. The Romans did not like these Christians who in effect told them their self-centered lifestyle was wrong and would ultimately lead them to ruin. Martyrdom was something the early Christians faced down and accepted willingly.

You will also learn of a few of the many heresies the church had to deal with in its early years. Simony, Judaizing, Docetism, and Gnosticism were overcome. “In spite of the efforts of the heretics, the Church preserved its unity, first in the persons of the Apostles and later in their teaching, guarded by their successors.

As a side note that must be mentioned, this book is chock full of foot notes. The numerous books and writings of the Church Fathers referenced gives readers ample fodder for further study on this period. As the saying goes, to know the Church Fathers is to know the Catholic Church.

Mike Aquilina in my opinion is one of the most knowledgeable patristic experts out there today. He effectively leads us on a journey back in time to the early days of the Church. This book takes you to ground level to see what the struggles and successes really were for the Apostles and their successors as they established the Church which Christ laid the foundation for. Ministers and Martyrs is a thoroughly enjoyable book that will lead the reader into a new appreciation for the early church.

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