Four Ways to Make Church History Come Alive

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“If you’re someone who loved old books–because you love church history and want others to share your enthusiasm–group Bible study can seem like a balancing act between trying to be helpful on one hand and appearing prideful on the other,” writes Travis Hearne for Southern Equip.

  1. Teach Theology through Historic Controversies: Teach gripping stories from the past where different arguments come to life. “Gripping stories are great teaching devices, and the theological controversies from the church’s past are an excellent way to grapple with the deep things of God.”

  2. Summarize Truths through Biblical Confessions: While there is some overlap with point one, many controversies produced statements of truth. “Creeds are helpful because they unite us with a shared belief in a common heritage.”

  3. Capture Emotions through Old Hymns: “There is a wealth of spirituality waiting to be used in Bible study. Old hymns are artistic. And they don’t have to feel out of place if the topic is clear. Hymns offer an avenue to respond to truth, even if we aren’t singing them.”

  4. Explore the Bible through Ancient Commentaries: Old commentaries still contain value. “They may not confront the current critical issues of our day, but they provide insight into how the Holy Spirit ministered to the church in the past.”

Go Deeper: Read the full article on how to make church history come alive on Southern Equip.

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