This book deserves four stars just because of the subject that it is dealing with. So misunderstood in modern day Christendom, but something unashamedly set forth in this book. As a Reformed Baptist, the style of this book is not my own. He is an Eastern Orthodox, and he weighs much on church tradition. However, he does not neglect to be Scriptural and consider Scriptural evidence. Also this book clearly shows how the early church understood and believed this doctrine of Christ's descent into Hell (Hades). Yes, this doctrine developed in some ways beyond what the Scriptures teach, we need to be aware of this. However, so have many doctrines in Reformed and Evangelical churches gone beyond what Scripture teaches and been over-emphasised and developed. But that does not mean that we ignore doctrines because in certain traditions they are abused or over-emphasised.
This book is a good source to see this doctrine and its presence in the worship of the early church. I believe the doctrine. The author however does go too far in saying this doctrine implies the universal salvation of all mankind. It does not, it implies the universal resurrection of all, yes, but not universal salvation. This is where I differ most with the author. Other than that, though I recommend it for study. ( )