History: A Student’s Guide

Knowledge of the past is integral to understanding the present and looking forward to the future. An appreciation of what came before is indeed foundational to nearly every other field of study.

This guide by professor Nathan A. Finn explores the nature of history and historical context, compares different schools of historical interpretation, and addresses contemporary issues related to the intersection of faith and history. This volume will help students critically engage with history in the light of God’s providential care over the past, the present, and the future.

“I heartily recommend Nathan Finn’s brisk and thoughtful History: A Student’s Guide. I do not know of a better introduction to historical studies, or a more cogent assessment of how Christians should think about history.”
Thomas S. Kidd, Distinguished Professor of History, Baylor University; author, The Great Awakening: The Roots of Evangelical Christianity in Colonial America

“Nathan Finn’s adept introduction to the art and discipline of history and historical scholarship will provide many students, especially those with explicit faith commitments, with the resources needed to participate in the ongoing conversations of the guild.”
Richard A. Bailey, Associate Professor of History, Canisius College; author, Race and Redemption in Puritan New England

“This mature, thorough, and insightful Christian treatment of history and the historian’s craft will prove to be an indispensable tool for students. In this concise and engaging book, Nathan Finn employs characteristic wit and wisdom as he guides his readers through the essentials of understanding the ‘foreign country’ of the past. Here’s a book every aspiring historian must read.”
John D. Wilsey, Assistant Professor of History and Christian Apologetics, Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary; author, American Exceptionalism and Civil Religion

Introduction: History and the Christian Worldview

1. Understanding History
2. Historical Interpretation
3. Faith and the Historian
4. History: An Invitation