"Was there life before Contemporary Christian Music?" is a question that few under the age of 40 are able to answer with any certainty today. The so-called "worship wars" of recent years have polarised opinion and split congregations. Not that this should surprise us. Christian music has sparked controversy ever since its first mention in the book of Genesis.

In his new book, author Mike Spencer delves into the history of music in the church, from Bible times right through to the present day. He looks at the relationship between music and some of the great events in church history, and examines the lives of some of the men and women of God who have contributed to our rich musical heritage.