Church History

Posted byGroundedOkPosted in9-12, Bible, Church History, Elective, High School, History, Laura Lamb

Laura Lamb

9th – 12th Grade

Textbook: Church History in Plain Language by Bruce L. Shelley

Materials: 3-ring binder
Workbook TBD

Supply Fee: $15 per semester

Length: 1 hour Class

Class Description: This high school Bible History course introduces students (grades 9–12) to the story of the Christian Church from the time of the apostles to the modern era. Using Church History in Plain Language by Bruce Shelley, students will explore how God has worked through imperfect people across centuries to preserve, shape, and grow His Church.

Throughout the year, students will examine key events, movements, and leaders that influenced Christian doctrine, worship, missions, and cultural engagement. Major units include:
• The Apostolic Age and the Early Church
• The Persecuted Church and the rise of early doctrine
• The Medieval Church and the development of Christian institutions
• The Reformation and its global impact
• The Modern Church and Christianity around the world

Students will not only learn historical facts but also develop critical thinking skills as they evaluate theological debates, cultural challenges, and the faithfulness of believers in different eras. Class activities may include guided discussions, primary source readings, short research assignments, presentations, and unit assessments.

By the end of the course, students will:
• Understand the major periods of church history and their significance
• Recognize influential Christian leaders and movements
• Trace the development of core Christian doctrines
• Strengthen their ability to think biblically about history and culture
• Gain a deeper appreciation for their place in God’s ongoing story

This course is designed to strengthen students’ faith, broaden their understanding of the global Church, and encourage them to live thoughtfully and faithfully in today’s world.

Teacher Biography: Laura Lamb is a wife, a mom of four, teacher, and a student of the Word who loves helping others see the beauty and history of the Bible. A believer for 17 years, Laura has spent much of that time homeschooling, raising her children, taking care of her home, teaching and discipling women at her church, sharing her heart for Scripture with a grace-filled and practical approach.

This year, she is stepping into the classroom for the 3rd year at Grounded to teach Middle School Bible and Bible History. While her background is in Music Education, her real passion lies in digging into the “why” and “how” of the biblical narrative, helping students connect the dots between ancient history and their lives today.

Laura and her husband, Jeffrey, have been married for 21 years and have a full, busy household with their four kids:

Their oldest (20), Jaxon, is currently serving in the U.S. Marines.

Their 17-year-old, Cooper, is a recent high school graduate and has completed training for certificates in Cybersecurity.

Their 15-year-old, Asher, is a high school sophomore.

Their youngest, Katelynn, an 12-year-old daughter, rounds out the crew.

When she isn’t teaching or keeping up with her teenagers, you can usually find Laura supporting her family and finding joy in the everyday rhythms of life and faith.