What is a Christian worldview of history?  First of all, a Christian worldview is only one of many views and perspectives that can be used in the study of history.  As historians, we need to remember first and foremost that history is about interpreting the past.  According to Dr. Samuel Smith in the video "Christian Worldview and History", the task of the historian is to be as objective as possible in the study of history and interpretation of evidence.[1]  Now that we have established what the role of the historian actually is, let's explore how we can incorporate a Christian worldview into our study of history.  As Christians, we know that God is at the center of our existence.  

However, as a Christian historian, we need to maintain God’s sovereignty and also make sure we remain objective and honest in our analysis and interpretation of past events and people.  

It is not our place as responsible Christian historians to try to explain why God allowed events to happen.  This would be a Providentialist approach to history and not a Christian worldview of history.  Maintaining a Christian worldview of history allows us, as individuals and historians, to remain obedient in our faith while also remaining obedient to our commitment of an honest interpretation of the past.  

According to Liberty University’s history department there are nine principles of a Christian worldview of history:

It is important to keep these nine principles in mind as we continue to interpret the past.

 

---

[1] Dr. Samuel Smith, “Christian Worldview and History” (video lecture in HIST 491 at Liberty University, Lynchburg, VA, February 8, 2019).