Historical

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Articles on Studying Christian History

Whether we’re talking about ancient Christians, cultures, or events, you can find it here under the historical category. We at Olive Tree think that ancient Christian history is important. It is our hope that the articles on studying Christian history will inspire you in your learning.

So, what are you waiting for? Start reading Augustine’s thoughts on the beatitudes, or learn how the Protestant reformation began. Get an overview with 14 Facts About Biblical Life or a short bio on John Wesley. Or, better yet, learn why you should care about ancient Christian history at all.

Historical

The Popularity of the Gospel of Matthew

The Gospel of Matthew was widely popular in the second and third centuries. In fact, it was much more popular than the other Gospels, earning its place at the front of the canon. The Bible Speaks Today series addresses this topic well. We took an excerpt from the introduction on…

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Return to the World of the Bible

Studying archaeology can help us return to the world of the Bible. Read this short article from author and archaeologist David Chapman to find out how. TANGIBLE REALITES One of the benefits to reading the Bible is to understand the culture behind the text. For example, when I am reading…

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Bonhoeffer: Discipleship and the Cross

BONHOEFFER Dietrich Bonhoeffer (1906-45) was a German theologian and pastor who spoke out against the Nazi regime during World War II. His resistance against Hitler’s regime culminated with him being hung in a concentration camp at Flossenbürg. Today, Bonhoeffer’s works are loved by many. His writing, despite time, is still youthful,…

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Why Read Books by Ancient Christians?

Not too many people loved reading Hamlet or Wuthering Heights in high school. Why? The language was confusing! Older literature takes time to understand due to cultural nuances, idioms, and unfamiliar vocabulary. This can be a huge deterrent for reading the works of ancient Christians. Reading translations of Augustine’s or…

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The Famous Preacher: H.A. Ironside

ABOUT H.A. IRONSIDE Henry Allen “Harry” Ironside was a Canadian-American Bible teacher, preacher, theologian, pastor, and author who pastored Moody Church in Chicago from 1929 to 1948. He also belong to the Plymouth Brethren, But Ironside didn’t wait until he was a pastor to preach. When he was 11 years…

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The Five Solas: God’s Glory Alone

SOLI DEO GLORIA Sola scriptura, Sola Fide, Sola Gratia, Solus Christus. Each of these on their own is a strong rallying cry and doctrine worth defending. Yet, each becomes stronger when joined with the final sola, soli deo gloria. Glory to God alone. This is the glue that holds all…

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How the Protestant Reformation Began

October 31st is the 501-year anniversary of the Protestant Reformation. Many Protestants are celebrating this day, all around the world! Although Olive Tree provides resources to a wide-variety of denominations, we thought this would be a great opportunity to talk a bit about how the Protestant Reformation began. Throughout the…

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A Tiny Biography of Menno Simmons

Have you ever heard of Menno Simmons? Now is your chance to learn a little bit about this Reformation hero. Check out the tiny biography below. NAME: Menno Simmons BIRTH: 1496, date unknown DEATH: January 31, 1561 HOMETOWN: Witmarsum, Friesland, modern-day Netherlands VOCATION: Catholic priest, Anabaptist pastor and author FAMILY:…

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The Five Solas: Christ Alone

“… for there is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved.” – Acts 4:12, speaking on Christ Alone CHRIST ALONE Of the five solas, solus Christus is the most important. This sola unifies all the others. Without the person and work of Jesus…

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The Message of the Reformers

Did you know that John Calvin made a point to write very little about himself—which is one reason why we don’t know much about his personal life? He isn’t the only one. The reformers didn’t write too many captivating memoirs, despite their brave and dangerous lives. Why didn’t the reformers…

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