The way Christianity spread across Europe has been compared to how Starbucks has dominated the global coffee market.
Discussing his book 'The Evolution of Everything: How Ideas Emerge' at the Chalke Valley History Festival, science writer Matt Ridley said both had "become ubiquitous, monopolistic and eventually intolerant" at the Daily Mail sponsored event.
"The notion that the Roman Empire was ripe for a monopoly religion to take it over at around the time of Christ is probably an inevitable one.
"There were a huge number of different religions in the Empire and the chances were that one of them would 'do a Starbucks', become ubiquitous, monopolistic and eventually intolerant and kick the other ones out.'
He claims in the first century AD, other figures were better known and followed than Jesus but their philosophies fell by the wayside for Christianity.
A Monthly Gift Of $11 Makes A World Of Difference
In a world of fake news there’s never been a greater need for quality Christian journalism. Premier’s mission is to provide the Church with the most up to date and relevant news, told from a Christian perspective. But we can’t do it without you.
Unlike many websites we haven't put up a paywall — we want to keep our journalism free at the point of need and as open as we can. Premier’s news output takes a lot of time, money and hard work to produce. No one in the USA is sharing news like we are across radio, magazines and online so please help us to continue that today.
For a monthly gift of $11 or more we’d also be able to send you a free copy of the brand new Premier Bible, a wonderful Anglicised version of the NLT packed with exclusive bonus content, reading plan and resources to help you get the most out of scripture.
Your monthly support will make a world of difference. Thank you.
Support Us
