In 1994 Piper read Stephen Neil’s A History of Christian Missions. What were some takeaways about the spread of the Christian Movement?

1. First and foremost was the burning conviction which possessed a great number of the early Christians.
2. The solid historical message which Christians brought was indeed good news, and a welcome alternative to the mystery religions of the day.
3. The new Christian communities commended themselves by the purity of their lives.
4. The Christian communities were marked by mutual loyalty and an overcoming of antagonisms between alienated classes.
5. The Christians were known for an elaborate development of charitable service, especially to those within the fellowship
6. The persecution of Christians and their readiness to suffer made a dramatic impact on unbelievers. 

Read Piper’s article “Inspired by the Incredible Early Church.”