Philippi: How Christianity Began in Europe By EduardVerhoef. London: Bloomsbury, 2013. Pp. xii+114. Paper, $29.95.

Archaeological research at the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Philippi, combined with historical analysis, reveals key insights into the early development and social structure of Christianity in Europe. Eduard Verhoef's work highlights that the first-century Philippian church was likely composed of working-class individuals, including Lydia, who may have owned a spacious home serving as a gathering place for believers. By integrating field visits to archaeological sites with regional inscriptions and artifacts, Verhoef estimates that Philippi had around 10,000 inhabitants during this period, providing a vivid context for understanding Paul's letter to the Philippians and Acts of the Apostles. The study underscores how archaeological evidence can bring ancient texts to life, offering a tangible glimpse into the early Christian community's size and social dynamics.

Gupta, N. K. (2016). Philippi: How Christianity Began in Europe By EduardVerhoef. London: Bloomsbury, 2013. Pp. xii+114. Paper, $29.95. Religious Studies Review, 42(1), 47. Portico. https://doi.org/10.1111/rsr.12340