Church History

Definition of Church History

For purposes of this course, term used in broadest sense: the scholarly discipline of recording and

interpreting the experiences of the worldwide body of people who claim to

follow Jesus Christ, since the Pentecostal baptism of the Spirit

(Acts 2) against the backdrop of man’s kingdom, and in the cradle of divine providence.

Definition of Church History (cont)

The term “Church” The term “History”

Historical Process Relationship between “Church History”

and “World History” Secular and Sacred History Church History as the Hub

Encouraging an Appreciation for Church History

History and Divine Revelation Time – medium God creates to reveal his glories to

man Progressive Revelation

Gen 1:1 – “In the beginning” – unity of Bible Gen 3:15 – progressive unfolding of this war and

redemption Bible is incomprehensible apart from historical

records History and the Providence of God

Divine sovereignty over all that comes to pass. Nothing left to chance.

Weak interest in history reflects a weak theology.

History and Sanctification Salvation history is directly linked to the

believer’s sanctification. Exod 12:24-27a; Josh 4:1-7; Ps 102:18 – second

generation knows God through the first Rom 6:20-21; 1 Cor 6:9-11; 10:6-12; 11:23-25

History provides negative and positive motivation (Heb 11-12)

History provides practical insight for ministry History and the Love of God (Eph 2:11-22;

Titus 2:14) History and Theological Studies

Knowledge of God supported by those who have gone before

Theology deteriorates or matures over time