“And I tell you that you are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church, and the gates of Hades will not overcome it.”
Matthew 16:1
When I tell people I have a history degree, I often get a subdued, “Oh.” I’m surprised to learn that some find the study of history boring. So before you put down this devotional with its church history theme, let me try to win your heart. The subject may sound dusty and dry, but when you look at the key events and people God has used to carry His gospel to the world, it actually gets very exciting. God can and does use regular old sinners saved by grace—people like you and me—to proclaim His good news.
Dr. Stephen Nichols has said that “[Church history] is our story, our family history.” As with any family history, there are highs and lows. But we always learn that God has been faithful to His people. The Bible shows us this from cover to cover. And God is building His kingdom over which “the gates of hell will not prevail.”
Church history has value because we see how Jesus has taken care of His sheep since the beginning of time. It ought to encourage all of us to know He’s still tending to us, His sheep, today.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Troy T. Lamberth
For 10 years Troy Lamberth has been an integral part Haven Ministries. He is the executive producer for the Haven Today radio program and has written two Anchors. His BA in history along with his MFA in film opened the door to a side project he co-created with his wife called Five Solas Media, an enterprise which produces Christian history films for families. He also is one of the pastors at his church where he preaches occasionally, teaches Sunday school, and coordinates Vacation Bible School. He and his wife Melissa have three children ages 11-14 who fill their lives with much activity and laughter.
Dr. Stephen Nichols has said that “[Church history] is our story, our family history.” As with any family history, there are highs and lows. But we always learn that God has been faithful to His people. The Bible shows us this from cover to cover. And God is building His kingdom over which “the gates of hell will not prevail.”
Church history has value because we see how Jesus has taken care of His sheep since the beginning of time. It ought to encourage all of us to know He’s still tending to us, His sheep, today.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Troy T. Lamberth
For 10 years Troy Lamberth has been an integral part Haven Ministries. He is the executive producer for the Haven Today radio program and has written two Anchors. His BA in history along with his MFA in film opened the door to a side project he co-created with his wife called Five Solas Media, an enterprise which produces Christian history films for families. He also is one of the pastors at his church where he preaches occasionally, teaches Sunday school, and coordinates Vacation Bible School. He and his wife Melissa have three children ages 11-14 who fill their lives with much activity and laughter.
Scripture Focus
Matthew 16:13-19
Insight
“Church History is the record of God’s gracious, wonderful … deeds, showing how by his Spirit and Word he rules his Church and conquers the world.” (Nils Forsander, 1889-1950)
Bible In A Year
- 1 Kings 4-5
- Proverbs 1
- Titus 1-3
