The Great Apostasy

The Great Apostasy examines the historical period following the death of Jesus Christ's apostles, documenting what the LDS Church views as Christianity's departure from its original teachings and authority. This 1909 text by James E. Talmage presents scriptural evidence alongside secular historical records to support the Mormon doctrine of a universal falling away from Christ's original church. The book was created as an educational resource for Mormon youth organizations and draws from earlier Protestant scholarly works that critiqued Roman Catholicism. Talmage's work became a foundational text in Mormon theology, serving as required reading for LDS missionaries and remaining in continuous publication through Deseret Book. Published during a pivotal era in Mormon intellectual history, The Great Apostasy stands as a systematic presentation of the LDS Church's position on early Christian history and the need for religious restoration. The text bridges scriptural prophecy and historical analysis to present a comprehensive religious narrative that continues to influence Mormon theological understanding.

Readers appreciate Talmage's methodical presentation of historical evidence for apostasy in early Christianity. Multiple reviews note his clear writing style and logical progression of arguments, though some find his tone formal and dated. Positive comments focus on: - Detailed documentation of changes in early Christian practices - Clear explanations of complex theological concepts - Value as a reference work for religious discussions Common criticisms include: - Mormon-centric perspective limits broader appeal - Some historical claims lack modern scholarly support - Writing can be dense and academic Ratings: Goodreads: 4.3/5 (889 ratings) Amazon: 4.6/5 (238 ratings) Notable reader comments: "Presents the LDS view of apostasy with thorough research" - Goodreads reviewer "Too biased toward Mormon theology to be truly objective" - Amazon reviewer "Helped me understand early church history, despite denominational differences" - Deseret Book reviewer Most readers approach it as a theological study rather than pure history.

The Apostasy and Restoration by Hugh Nibley This volume examines historical evidence of changes in early Christian doctrine and authority through ancient documents and archaeological findings.

Early Christians and Their Doctrines by B.H. Roberts The text traces the transformation of Christian beliefs and practices from the time of Christ through the medieval period.

The Story of Christianity by Justo L. González This work chronicles the development of Christianity from its origins through major historical shifts in doctrine and organization.

The Great Apostasy: Considered in Light of Scriptural and Secular History by ::Mark E. Petersen:: The book presents historical records and documents that demonstrate changes in original Christian practices and teachings through centuries of church history.

The First Two Thousand Years by W. Cleon Skousen This historical analysis covers the period from Adam to Abraham with focus on religious authority and doctrinal changes through generations.

🔸 James E. Talmage wrote the book while serving as president of the University of Utah (1894-1897), making him one of the few university presidents to author major religious texts during their tenure. 🔸 The book was first published in 1909 and was developed from a series of lectures Talmage delivered at LDS Church colleges in the early 1900s. 🔸 Talmage held a PhD from Illinois Wesleyan University and incorporated academic historical research methods unusual for religious texts of that era. 🔸 The concept of a "Great Apostasy" discussed in the book traces its roots to Protestant Reformation ideas, particularly those of Martin Luther and John Wesley. 🔸 The work remains in continuous print after more than 110 years and has been translated into over 15 languages, serving as required reading in LDS missionary training.