Unlocking the Power of Church History
The ESV Church History Study Bible is built on the fundamental principle that we have much to learn from those who have gone before us. As Charles Spurgeon once encouraged his students, “The Holy Spirit is not an exclusive or individual gift to any one believer.” We can tap into the wisdom of the past, recognizing that the Holy Spirit has been teaching the church throughout the centuries.
Lessons from the Giants of Faith
This study Bible introduces readers to the teachings of giants of the faith, such as John Calvin, Martin Luther, Augustine, Jonathan Edwards, and Charles Spurgeon. Their commentary notes provide valuable insights into the biblical text, offering a deeper understanding of the Gospel narratives.
The Crucifixion and Resurrection of Jesus
In the ESV Church History Study Bible, we see Christ’s complete and perfect substitution for sinners through the commentary notes of J. C. Ryle and Matthew Henry. We witness the contrast between the second Adam and the first, as Jesus stands before Pilate, bearing the crown of thorns, and ultimately, the weight of our sins.
The Significance of Christ’s Death and Resurrection
Through the writings of John Calvin, Ambrose, and Cyril of Alexandria, we grasp the magnitude of Christ’s sacrifice and the triumph of his resurrection. We see how creation itself mourned the loss of its Lord, as the sun was darkened, the rocks were rent, and the temple veil was torn in two.
The Victory of Christ
In the end, we celebrate the victory of Christ, who overcame sin, death, and God’s wrath, securing our salvation. As Richard Sibbes so eloquently puts it, “Whenever your soul is truly humbled in the sense of sin, look not at sin in your conscience… but at Christ.”
Unlocking the Secrets of Church History
The ESV Church History Study Bible invites readers to stand on the shoulders of giants, gaining a deeper understanding of the biblical text and the significance of Christ’s death and resurrection. By embracing the wisdom of the past, we can better navigate the complexities of our faith today.
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