Christian worldview refers to the framework of one’s beliefs through which a Christian interprets the world. Living in a secular society is a big reason for Christian historians to stand out and be bold about their faith. In Romans 12:2, it says, “Do not conform to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your minds.” By knowing who we are in Christ, we can be the light in the darkness to a lost world.
If the person does not have an understanding of why they are here on earth, then how can they understand the past? As Dr. Clyde Wilson said, the person has first to read and know the Bible in order to know and understand history.[1]
Figure 1. Athiest World View. LiveoutloudforGod.com. https://livelifeoutloudforgod.com/family-life-parenting/the-battle-christian-kids-in-public-school-with-a-biblical-or-secular-worldview/.
Dr. Sam Smith mentioned that a Christian worldview sees people and events of history through God’s perspective. Dr. Smith quoted John Calvin when he said, “Christians should view the world through the lens of Scripture.”[2] Seeing that people are born in the image of God should change our outlook on them. Seeing people, the way God sees them should shape the way we tell history.
A Christian worldview in history does not refer to spiritualizing history by attaching Bible verses to make a point. The Christian worldview in history is objective, honest, and ethical.[3]
Figure 2. Christian World View. LiveoutloudforGod.com. https://livelifeoutloudforgod.com/family-life-parenting/the-battle-christian-kids-in-public-school-with-a-biblical-or-secular-worldview/.
For Christian historians, when writing history, we need to adhere to some guidelines. We ultimately need to remember that Jesus Christ is central to human history.[4] Once we understand this, then we can see throughout history how the Lord has allowed good things and bad things to happen through His Will. The Christian historian Darryl Hart mentions that,
“The Doctrine of Providence teaches that God is at work in everything both good and not so good, but to determine what God intended in a particular event is another matter altogether.”[5]
Figure 3. Darryl Hart.
Christian historians simply cannot put in Bible verses to win a topic or to discredit another historian. Another guideline is being committed to objectivity and honesty is essential.[6] The goal of the historian is to interpret the past. By doing this effectively and accurately, we can glorify God through our work.
Overall, understanding what a Christian worldview in history is important because it challenges the historian to become better. It requires the historian to avoid having any bias. The overarching concept that Christian historians should understand is that even though man is sinful, God is sovereign over all history.
[1] Wilson, Dr. Clyde. “Conservatism and History.” Interview by Dr. Carey Roberts. Liberty University. Lynchburg, Va.
[2] Smith, Dr. Samuel. “Christian Worldview and History.” Presentation, Liberty University, Lynchburg, VA.
[3] Ibid.
[4] Ibid.
[5] Ibid.
[6] Ibid.
History_Hound 