As Christian homeschool families, we have been given the incredible opportunity to shape our children’s education according to our beliefs and values. One crucial aspect of our children’s education is history, which tells the story of our past, shapes our present, and influences our future. As we seek to guide our children towards a Christ-centered worldview, it is essential to use a Christ-centered history curriculum in our homeschool.
First and foremost, a Christ-centered history curriculum helps our children understand that history is not just a series of events; rather, it is a grand narrative of God’s plan for redemption. From Creation to the Fall, from the Exodus to the Cross, and from the Reformation to the present day, God’s hand is at work in history. A Christ-centered history curriculum helps our children see how the threads of God’s redemptive plan are woven throughout history, and how His plan for salvation unfolds through the lives of people and nations. When our children understand that history is not just a random sequence of events, but a purposeful plan of God, they are better equipped to see their own lives and the world around them through a Biblical lens.
Second, a Christ-centered history curriculum helps our children understand the impact of sin on individuals, societies, and nations. History is full of examples of people who pursued their own interests, ignored God’s commands, and brought destruction upon themselves and others. A Christ-centered history curriculum helps our children understand the root cause of all sin and the consequences of turning away from God. Through studying the lives of people in history, our children can see the destructive effects of sin and the hopelessness of trying to find meaning and purpose apart from the Lord. They can also see the difference that a life surrendered to Him can make, both in the lives of individuals and in the course of history.
Third, a Christ-centered history curriculum helps our children develop critical thinking skills and discernment. In a world full of competing worldviews, our children need to learn how to evaluate ideas and beliefs through the lens of Scripture. A Christ-centered history curriculum helps our children develop the ability to discern truth from error and to recognize the impact of ideas on society. By studying the lives and ideas of people in history, our children can learn to think critically about the world around them and to evaluate everything through a Biblical worldview.
One of my favorite Christ-centered history curriculums for homeschoolers is Kevin Swanson’s two-volume History of the World Set, available here from the Generations bookstore. We’ve been reminded of how essential it is for Christian students and families to view world history through a Christ-centered lens. This unique world history course does just that, placing the Lord Jesus squarely at the center of human history, from Creation to the present. It goes beyond simply telling the story of the great empires and early civilizations, for it follows the tracks of the Carpenter from Nazareth and His disciples into every major nation, empire, and tribe around the world. This is one of the best options out there for you if you want to teach your children history from a Biblical perspective.
In conclusion, as Christian homeschool families, we have a great responsibility to educate our children with a Christ-centered worldview, and using a Christ-centered history curriculum is an essential part of that responsibility. By teaching our children that God is at work in history and that everything happens for a purpose, we can help them understand their place in His plan and His call on their lives. Furthermore, a Christ-centered history curriculum equips our children with critical thinking skills, enabling them to discern truth from error and evaluate ideas through a Biblical lens. Let us pray to the Lord for grace and strength as we strive to raise up a generation of children who understand the grand narrative of the Lord’s plan for redemption, and who are equipped to make a difference in the world for His glory!
All for our King’s glory,
Christian
P.S. While we’re on the subject of history… I’d love to invite your family to join me this week (April 3-7, 2023) for the God-Centered History Summit, hosted by Homeschool Summits! This free online event features Douglas Bond, Kevin Swanson, Eric Metaxas, Michael Farris, and other world-class speakers who will showcase how God’s mighty hand has worked throughout history for His glory. The Summit promises to be a thrilling storytelling experience that will transform your view of history and inspire your children to advance Christ’s kingdom. Don’t miss this opportunity! Register now for free at VibrantHomeLife.com/history.
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