The Christianization of the Vikings-Part 1 2

The other day my family and I went to our local Half-Price Books where I found a copy of The Vikings by Else Roesdahl.  I have been doing some recent reading on the spread of the gospel to Scandinavia and how the gospel transformed a barbaric people, who eventually sent their own missionaries across the world.

Also, I just found out on Sunday that a the new movie, Thor, is set to be released next month.  So, maybe my interest in the Viking Age is more in touch with reality than most would assume. 🙂

Just as there is much value in Historical Theology, there is also much value in Historical Missiology, or the history of missions as is commonly known.  Our present and future of missionary activity is based on 2000 years of history.  It is unwise for any missionary–including those serving in North America–to not know their history.  There are many important lessons to learn from those who have gone before us–both things to do well and grave mistakes to avoid.

While I’ll let you continue your study on the Vikings, I do want to share a few thoughts with you.

The Viking Age existed for about 300 years, from the latter part of the eight century to the eleventh century.  Some of the most notable missionaries were:

Willibrord–first known missionary; labored in Denmark in the early eight century; experienced few visible results

Ebo, Archbishop of Reims–preached in Denmark in 823; baptized many people

Ansaar (Ansgar or Anskar)–called “Apostle to the North;” labored in trading centers of Birka, Hedeby, and Ribe, places where a Christian presence already existed or Christian traders visited; saw many people baptized; saw construction of many church facilities

Concerning Anskar, Stephen Neill writes, “Anskar is a memorable and prophetic figure, not because of what he acieved, but because of the patience and devotion with which he  pushed against a door which was not yet ready to open, and because he is the first of a great succession of bishops who worked outwards from a well-established Christian centre into the regions beyond which were still pagan” (A History of Christian Missions, 82).

Tomorrow, I plan to finish this two-part series, and share what we can learn.  Until then, what do you know about the past missionary labors among the Vikings?

Don’t forget your history–remember, you are making it today!