Includes bibliographical references and index.

How we understand the tradition. What is the tradition? ; How have we understood tradition historically? ; How do we understand the tradition today? -- Expanding circles of inquiry. Who am I? Christian history and Christian identity ; A great cloud of witnesses ; Accountability partners ; Mentors and friends -- Tradition serving the church. Rightly dividing the word of truth -- Tradition and ministry.

'For many Christians who believe the Bible is the only ultimate authority for faith and life, questions about the role and value of the church's traditions can be difficult to tackle. But let's be honest: even those of us who admit that church history is important are often too intimidated or busy to delve into it deeply. And for students, it's sometimes difficult to see how church history matters in practical ways for future vocations inside and outside the contemporary church. In this wide-ranging book, veteran teacher Bob Rea tackles these barriers to understanding and embracing the significance of the faith and practice of our spiritual forebears. Rea not only skillfully explains why church history matters--he shows why it should matter to you.' --Back Cover