Harnack is often critical of the "Hellenizing" of Christianity in the writings of Sts. Peter and John, yet few sources for Church history can equal the volumn of Greek footnotes (as well as Latin and Hebrew, some several pages long) found in the History of Dogma. Definitely not light reading, but unsurpassed as a political, dogmatic (kerygmatic), exegetical and linguistic reference. Excellent organization and index, provides a good foundation for any first millenium European historical perspective.

Since I am the son-in-law of the author, you might think I am a little biased. That is completely true, but who would not, if he was married to such a daughter? No seriously, a must for those who are interested in 16th century history or theology.