Christians in the Age of Islamic Enlightenment: A Review Essay
Lamin Sanneh
International Bulletin of Missionary Research, Vol. 34, No. 3 E bedraggled from imperial repression and reeling the sudden inrush Greek science philosophy, Christianity achieved at hands Constantine a measure guarded cohesion before splintering further under Justinian in sixth century. The Christological controversy, which had taken its toll by time rise Islam seventh century, survived into Islamic phase with renewed vigor. Rather than flinching, fledgling movement set upon Christian world two different directions: without, sequestration territory, east against Byzantium west Spain; within, criticism Scripture doctrines. In centuries following collapse Roman Empire, was consolidating hold on Mediterranean century challenged it seriously. time, caliphate proceeded to papacy ransom for hundred years, much longer Europe danced tune caliph and, later, that Sublime Porte Istanbul. Meanwhile, held tenaciously view is corrupted religion whose doctrines are invalid. Muslims may expedience tolerate Christians, but they not countenance religion. Split fashion, Christians were granted protected status as matter social policy while remained legal restriction. Nowhere double fact territorial disinheritance religious disqualification more evident Bethlehem, Jesus’ birthplace belonging Muslim sphere. It continues lie remote, exotic rim Age Enlightenment: A Review Essay
International Bulletin of Missionary Research