The book by the outstanding French historian, philosopher and writer is the fourth volume of “The History of the First Centuries of Christianity” and is most in tune with the dramatic collisions of our time. The author has done a tremendous job of finding, systematizing and deciphering ancient manuscripts. He interprets many texts of the New Testament in his own way and paints portraits of his heroes within the framework of the dramatic events of their lives that unfolded against the broad historical background of Ancient Rome, Jerusalem, and Middle Asia. A living reconstruction of a century during which there was a bitter struggle between three religions - Jewish, pagan and Christian - is of lasting importance.