Christianity has a deceptively simple core, but is an extremely diverse religion. Frankiel approaches that diversity by a historical study that traces the contours of development and identifies some of the major different religious styles, worldviews, and directions within the religion. She then examines the characteristics of Christianity that endure over timethose that make it distinct from other religions. This multidimensional approach provides a rich picture of Christianity by utilizing a variety of perspectives, bringing some material into view more than once to reinforce learning and provoke questions.