Theology
Why Study History? Reflecting on the Importance of the Past, 2nd ed. John Fea The interpretation of the past is at the core of many of today’s divisive political and cultural debates. In this introductory text- book, historian John Fea shows how studying the past can help us understand the present world in which we live. He explains why Christians should study history, how faith is brought to bear on our understanding of the past, and how studying the past can help us more effectively love God and others. Deep historical thinking can relieve us of our narcissism; cultivate humility, hospitality, and love; and transform our lives more fully into the image of Jesus Christ. The first edition of this book has been used widely in Christian col - leges. The second edition contains updates throughout. “A wonderful introduction to what historians do and how they think. I am pleased to see a second edition in print.” —BENJAMIN WETZEL, Taylor University “I’ve been using John Fea’s textbook for as long as I’ve taught my department’s Introduction to History course, and I’m eager for my students to start reading his updated edition. Why Study History? remains an accessible, winsome, and thought-provoking case for the power of history from a leading scholar who approaches the study of the past as a Christian vocation.” —CHRISTOPHER GEHRZ, Bethel University; author of Charles Lindbergh: A Religious Biography of America’s Most Infamous Pilot PRAISE FOR THE FIRST EDITION “A great conversation starter in a wide array of Christian college classrooms.” —DOUGLAS A. SWEENEY, Beeson Divinity School, Samford University “Performs a tremendous service for all students, teachers, and readers of history. Fea’s provocative, entertaining approach raises all the right questions about the historical vocation.” —THOMAS S. KIDD, Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary
MARCH 2024 • 184 pp. • paper • $24.99 • 9781540966605
John Fea (PhD, State University of New York at Stony Brook) is distinguished professor of American history at Messiah University and executive editor of Current. He is the author of several books, including Believe Me: The Evangelical Road to Donald Trump and Was America Founded as a Christian Nation? He writes a popular daily blog, The Way of Improvement Leads Home .
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