Un Pagan Christianity

Exploring the Real Roots of Our Church Practices

By: Brad Chase

Narrated by: Kevin McAlister

Length: 2 hrs and 10 mins

Publisher's summary

The book is meant as a follow up to those who have already read or listened to the book Pagan Christianity by Frank Viola and George Barna. It was written to bring to light the biblical roots to Christianity that were omitted in Pagan Christianity and to help give another perspective on the Institutional church. Although the content shared in this book challenges Frank and George’s perspective (the authors of Pagan Christianity), what unites us (our love for Christ) is far greater than what divides us. I hope you enjoy another look at the Un Pagan Roots of the Institutional Church.

©2021 Bradley Chase (P)2021 Bradley Chase

Helps to Give a Balanced Perspective

After reading Pagan Christianity by Frank Viola, this has helped me to gain a more balanced perspective. Some of the chapter are very short, compared to Pagan Christianity, but some of these do not require a long chapter to give a good rebuttal, though some arguments were weaker than others.

I especially appreciated learning the history of the church instituting the tithe, as well as other historical allusions, and quotes from early church leaders.

There was, however, one chapter I think the author got the information wrong about. The chapter on Christian Education (which overall I found to be a compelling argument), mentions the Alexandrian catechetical school being founded by John the apostle, but when I briefly searched the internet, tradition ascribes the founder to be John Mark. The author goes on to say that Polycarp and Irenaeus were attendees here, which source I cannot find. I believe the author mistakenly says this because Polycarp was a disciple of John the Apostle, who did not found this school.

Also, the narrator, to me, narrates too quickly. I had to listen at .85 speed the whole time.

Lazy arguments

My main issue with this rebuttal book is that it waters down the hard work of Frank Viola and partners put in. I’m not saying that Pagan Christianity should be 100% followed, but if you’re going to refute their claims, please put a bit more effort. I would recommend reading only because I believe in taking in different views but meh other than that.