Book excerpt: The Expansion of Christianitytells the fascinating story of how Christianity developed from its beginnings as a persecuted sect in an outpost of the Roman empire to become the largest religion on earth. For Timothy Yates human zeal and courage are key to the story, and his book concentrates on the missionary pioneers--people such as Paul, Columba, Willibrord, Francis Xavier, John Eliot, William Carey and Mary Slessor.Yates examines continents individually, showing how Christian mission has moved forward despite many periods of retreat. By the twentieth century churches had been planted in every major ethnic group in the world, with estimates putting the number of Christians across the globe today at two thousand million--33% of the population.All those interested in history and the growth of a truly worldwide religion will findThe Expansion of Christianitya rich and enlightening resource.