I am reading "The Next Christendom" by Philip Jenkins. It created a big stir when it came out some years ago. I wasn't very interested to read it then, but decided to pick it up from the library recently, and am finding it a very interesting read.

Jenkins talks about the "changing face of global Christianity", which is fair enough, and mostly common sense, as those of us from non-Western countries are aware that Africa, Asia and Latin America (the South) that the West (or North) has gone pretty secular, and many of the most vibrant churches are in the South instead of the North.

What's interesting about his book is the details. Jenkins traces the early Christian movements in China, India, Egypt, Ethiopia, and other places, some of which were wiped out around the time of the Middle Ages, and others of which have continued, like the Copts, or the Mar Thoma. He surveys the effects of Western influence, and the rapid growth of African indigenous movements.

I'm about halfway through. Precise and considered, but not too academic. Much recommended. A good read.