church History `101: Retrospective uNITY
The author of Ecclesiastes writes, “What has been is what will be, and what has been done is what will be done, and there is nothing new under the sun” (Ecclesiastes 1:9). His point is that what we see behind us looks an awful lot like that in front of us. Across church history, we see some of the most brilliant minds dealing with issues a lot like ours, and it would be to our detriment if we fail to learn from these faithful imitators of Christ. So, the intent of this series is to not only help you see the value of our study but to walk you through how Scripture itself places a priority on looking backward. As a result, this series is designed to help you see that thoughtful hindsight gives us faithful foresight. In other words, by looking backwards we learn something valuable about where we are and where we are going.
All of the lessons and the corresponding notes can be found below.
Church History 101, Part 1 - Introduction: A Retrospective GOd
Why should Christians study church history? In this introductory lesson, we explore Scripture’s emphasis on remembrance and discover how reflecting on God’s faithfulness throughout history shapes both our identity and our conduct. By learning from the triumphs and failures of those who came before us, we discover that thoughtful hindsight gives us faithful foresight.
Church History 101, Part 2 - The Age of Jesus and the Apostles (6 B.C. to A.D. 70)
How did Christianity emerge from its Jewish roots and become a movement distinct from the surrounding world? In this lesson, we trace the birth and rapid expansion of the early church, from the ministry of Jesus and the Day of Pentecost to the missionary journeys of Paul and the persecution of the apostles. Through their example, we discover that to be set apart from the world is to be at odds with the world, and that faithfulness to Christ is worth the cost.
Church History 101, Part 3 - The Age of Catholic Christianity (A.D. 70-312)
How did the early church maintain unity as Christianity spread throughout the ancient world? In this lesson, we explore the remarkable expansion of Christianity, the persecution believers faced under the Roman Empire, and the church’s response to false teachings through the development of creeds, the biblical canon, and church leadership. Through these challenges, we discover that as the church grows, so should its clarity, remaining firmly united around the person and work of Jesus Christ.
Church History 101, Part 4 - The Age of the Christian Roman Empire (A.D. 312-590)
What happens when Christianity moves from being persecuted by the Roman Empire to becoming its favored religion? In this lesson, we explore the dramatic transformation of the church under Constantine, the development of Christian doctrine through historic councils, the rise of monasticism and the papacy, and the spread of Christianity among the barbarian tribes. Through the triumphs and challenges of this remarkable era, we discover that the kingdom of God is not found in a crown, but in Christ.