2 Tim 2:15 "Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth."
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WHY IS CHURCH HISTORY IMPORTANT FOR CHRISTIANS?
THURSDAY, OCTOBER 1
Deuteronomy 8:2
Psalm 78:5-6
“That the generation to come
might know them…”
WHY IS CHURCH HISTORY IMPORTANT FOR CHRISTIANS?
Many Christians today suffer from what Bruce L. Shelley called “historical amnesia,” i.e. the time between the Apostles and our own day often feels like one giant blank. Yet, this is hardly what God intends. Earle Cairns reminded us that Christians should have a special interest in history because the very foundations of our faith are rooted in history: God became man and lived in time and space in the person of Jesus Christ.
History began in Holy Scripture, and church history continues the story of God’s faithful dealings with His people. It records the ongoing life and work of Christ in the world. It connects the factual events of the Gospel in the past with its proclamation and application in the present, showing the Spirit of God at work through the church across the ages. Studying church history helps us understand and clarify what we believe, providing a context for evaluating our faith and practices in light of the teaching of the church throughout the centuries.
Church history is also a safeguard against error. There are no new heresies, only old ones dressed in new clothes. By studying the past, we see patterns and parallels that shed light on present-day challenges. This knowledge equips us to correct existing evils within the church and avoid false practices.
Beyond correction, church history offers edification and inspiration. Paul wrote that “whatever things were written aforetime were written for our learning, that we through patience and comfort of the scriptures might have hope” (Rom 15:4). In the same way, the lives of faithful believers throughout history provide mentors and heroes, i.e. guides who followed Christ and encourage us to do the same. Their witness promotes spiritual maturity and stirs us to heartfelt prayers for God to reform and revive His church.
THOUGHT: Do I delight in knowing how God has dealt with His church through the ages?
PRAYER: Father, impress upon my heart the importance of church history. May its lessons deepen my faith, guard me from error, and inspire me to walk faithfully with Christ.