Section 1
For fifty years Basic Christianity has exposed the backbone of the Christian faith. Its uncompromising clarity, intelligent logic and easy application make this one of the most enduring of Christian classics. In a time of ambiguity and confusion I can think of no other book I would rather recommend. Every evangelist should consider Basic Christianity a masterclass in communicating the gospel. This book is a must-read for those who are seeking God, those wishing to refresh their own faith, or those who hope to lead others into the loving arms of Jesus Christ.
Rev. William Van Der Hart, evangelist and pastor
Lucid, clear and compelling. After Mere Christianity, perhaps no other book has helped more people come to faith. I’m thrilled that this classic has been appropriately shaped and refreshed for a modern audience without losing any of its timeless charm and persuasive brilliance. Having led and organized university missions for over twenty-five years I was sobered to be reminded of what a debt we all owe to this book and its author. ‘Christ is Christianity’ and no other book exemplifies a Christ-centred apologetic more simply and clearly.
Rev. Richard Cunningham, Director of UCCF: The Christian Unions
We can thank God that in the past few years those committed to Christian orthodoxy have been realizing the importance of the subjective and experiential aspects of the Christian gospel and using these in introducing Christianity to others. But the danger is that we can get so carried away by this that we forget the heart of what Christianity is all about. At such times it is good to go back to tried and tested expositions that have stood the test of time. And what better resource is there for this than John Stott’s classic Basic Christianity?
Ajith Fernando, National Director, Youth for Christ, Sri Lanka
Clear, penetrating and fresh, Basic Christianity has everything that you want to say to someone who wants to know what Christianity is all about. With an engaging and accessible style, John Stott lays out the truth of the gospel. The account of the Bible’s message is wonderfully straightforward and the challenge to respond to Jesus Christ is compelling. By the time you’ve read the first few pages you’ll already be thinking of people to give this book to: don’t pull back!
Rev. Dominic Smart, Gilcomston South Church, Aberdeen
This was the classic forerunner of strong, balanced evangelistic books, and I am delighted it is being republished fifty years later. It led many to faith then, and it will again.
Canon Dr Michael Green
Anything John Stott says is worth listening to...anything he writes is worth reading. Basic Christianity is not only a classic ‘must-read’ for every believer, it is truly a blessing preserved on the written page for the enrichment of this generation, and those to come.
Anne Graham Lotz, author and speaker
John Stott’s books have helped millions around the world to a better understanding of the Christian faith. I, for one, am extremely grateful for the way in which he explains complex and difficult issues with great clarity, insight and wisdom. Basic Christianity has become a classic of our time.
Nicky Gumbel, Vicar of Holy Trinity Brompton and pioneer of the Alpha course
[This slim volume] has introduced more people to Christ than any book I know other than the Bible.
Jim Sire, author