This weekly podcast provides an informal and informative look at church history. Join us each week as we take a brief break from the present to go exploring the past. Travel back in time as we look at the people, events, and even the places that have shaped the story of Christianity. Each episode offers an easily digestible glimpse of how the eternal, unchangeable God has worked in the church over prior generations and how this can encourage us today. This is our story—our family history.
5 Pieces of Art from Chicago
Throughout history, many painters have chosen biblical themes as the subject for their artwork. Today, Stephen Nichols describes five paintings that are housed at the Art Institute of Chicago. Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/5-pieces-of-art-from-chicago/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://www.ligonier.org/donate/ Explore all of our podcasts: https://www.ligonier.org/podcasts
1/31/2024 • 5 minutes
Francis Scott Key
Francis Scott Key is famously remembered as the man who penned "The Star-Spangled Banner." Did you know that he wrote hymns as well? Today, Stephen Nichols discusses several of these hymns. Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/francis-scott-key/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://www.ligonier.org/donate/ Explore all of our podcasts: https://www.ligonier.org/podcasts
1/24/2024 • 5 minutes
The Second Great Awakening Overlook
What took place during the Second Great Awakening? Today, Stephen Nichols offers a bird's-eye view of this significant movement in 19th-century America. Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/the-second-great-awakening-overlook/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://www.ligonier.org/donate/ Explore all of our podcasts: https://www.ligonier.org/podcasts
1/17/2024 • 5 minutes
Asahel Nettleton
When health challenges stopped Asahel Nettleton from becoming an overseas missionary, he took his ministry local. Today, Stephen Nichols recounts the life of a lesser-known yet influential 1800s evangelist. Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/asahel-nettleton/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://www.ligonier.org/donate/ Explore all of our podcasts: https://www.ligonier.org/podcasts
1/10/2024 • 5 minutes
1827
When Charles Finney introduced his "New Measures" for practicing Christianity, a group of ministers met to discuss their concerns. Today, Stephen Nichols sets the scene for the New Lebanon Conference of 1827. Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/1827/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://www.ligonier.org/donate/ Explore all of our podcasts: https://www.ligonier.org/podcasts
1/3/2024 • 5 minutes
5 New Year’s Resolutions
At the start of a new year, many people like to set goals for the year ahead. Today, Stephen Nichols shares several of Jonathan Edwards' life resolutions, made when he was a young man far from home. Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/5-new-years-resolutions/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://www.ligonier.org/donate/ Explore all of our podcasts: https://www.ligonier.org/podcasts
12/27/2023 • 5 minutes
Three Christmas Greetings
The message of Christmas is rich with the good news of Jesus Christ. Today, Stephen Nichols brings us Christmas greetings from three individuals in church history: Augustine, Martin Luther, and D. Martyn Lloyd-Jones. Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/three-christmas-greetings/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://www.ligonier.org/donate/ Explore all of our podcasts: https://www.ligonier.org/podcasts
12/20/2023 • 5 minutes
London on Location: St. Giles Cripplegate
St. Giles Cripplegate church is home to more than 1,000 years of church history. Today, Stephen Nichols is on location in London, discussing the many notable figures who ministered at or attended this historic church. Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/london-on-location-st-giles-cripplegate/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://www.ligonier.org/donate/ Explore all of our podcasts: https://www.ligonier.org/podcasts
12/13/2023 • 5 minutes
London on Location: The English Reformation in 5 Acts
Iconic sites from church history can be found around many corners of the city of London. Today, Stephen Nichols is on location to discuss five acts of legislation that shaped the English Reformation. Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/london-on-location-the-english-reformation-in-5-acts/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://www.ligonier.org/donate/ Explore all of our podcasts: https://www.ligonier.org/podcasts
12/6/2023 • 5 minutes
London on Location: The Great Awakening in London
During the Great Awakening in England, God used faithful preachers to spread the good news of Jesus Christ. Today, Stephen Nichols introduces us to several prominent figures from this period of church history. Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/london-on-location-the-great-awakening-in-london/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://www.ligonier.org/donate/ Explore all of our podcasts: https://www.ligonier.org/podcasts
11/29/2023 • 5 minutes
Confessing Like It’s 1559: Italians in Geneva
When Italian refugees arrived in Germany in 1557, some of them brought confusion around central Christian doctrines. Today, Stephen Nichols explores the Formulario, the first confession of faith written in Italian. Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/confessing-like-its-1559-italians-in-geneva/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://www.ligonier.org/donate/ Explore all of our podcasts: https://www.ligonier.org/podcasts
11/22/2023 • 5 minutes
Confessing Like It’s 1559: Pińczów
The Pinczow Confession of 1559 primarily focuses on the person of Jesus Christ. Today, Stephen Nichols takes us to Poland to tell us about this confession of faith and the main individual who drafted it. Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/confessing-like-its-1559-pinczow/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://www.ligonier.org/donate/ Explore all of our podcasts: https://www.ligonier.org/podcasts
11/15/2023 • 5 minutes
Confessing Like It’s 1559: Paris
In 1559, a group of pastors in Paris drafted the French Confession of Faith. Today, Stephen Nichols discusses the history of this confession and provides an overview of its first five articles. Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/confessing-like-its-1559-paris/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://www.ligonier.org/donate/ Explore all of our podcasts: https://www.ligonier.org/podcasts
11/8/2023 • 5 minutes
Be Thou My Vision: A History
The hymn "Be Thou My Vision" has been sung by Christians for hundreds of years. Today, Stephen Nichols tells us about the origins of this beloved song, rich with biblical truth, poetry, and history. Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/be-thou-my-vision-a-history/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://www.ligonier.org/donate/ Explore all of our podcasts: https://www.ligonier.org/podcasts
11/1/2023 • 5 minutes
John of Damascus
John of Damascus was an Arab Christian monk, apologist, and prolific writer. Today, Stephen Nichols introduces us to this significant figure in the Eastern Orthodox tradition. Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/john-of-damascus/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://www.ligonier.org/donate/ Explore all of our podcasts: https://www.ligonier.org/podcasts
10/25/2023 • 5 minutes
Mr. Warfield’s Neighborhood
Did you know that two seminaries merged to form Pittsburgh Theological Seminary? Today, Stephen Nichols tells us about several faculty members who taught at these Pittsburgh seminaries through the years. Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/mr-warfields-neighborhood/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://www.ligonier.org/donate/ Explore all of our podcasts: https://www.ligonier.org/podcasts
10/18/2023 • 5 minutes
Pittsburgh 1931
Before Harold John Ockenga took his post as minister of Point Breeze Presbyterian Church, J. Gresham Machen had an important message for him. Today, Stephen Nichols recounts how Machen charged Ockenga to stand firm for the gospel. Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/pittsburgh-1931/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://www.ligonier.org/donate/ Explore all of our podcasts: https://www.ligonier.org/podcasts
10/11/2023 • 5 minutes
On Edwards’ Porch
After the death of his son-in-law, Jonathan Edwards took office as the third president of Princeton University. Today, Stephen Nichols discusses the short yet impactful tenure that Edwards held at this institution. Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/on-edwards-porch/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://www.ligonier.org/donate/ Explore all of our podcasts: https://www.ligonier.org/podcasts
10/4/2023 • 5 minutes
Presbyterians in Pittsburgh
What does the battle for Fort Duquesne in 1758 have to do with the emergence of Protestantism in Pittsburgh? Today, Stephen Nichols tells us about how Presbyterianism spread in this region. Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/presbyterians-in-pittsburgh/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/donate/
9/27/2023 • 5 minutes
William Gouge
William Gouge was known by many as a compassionate minister of the gospel. Today, Stephen Nichols tells us about the ministry, writings, and legacy of this English Puritan. Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/william-gouge/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/donate/
9/20/2023 • 5 minutes
Maximus of Turin
In the face of rising spiritual and political threats, Maximus of Turin charged his congregation to remain steadfast in trusting the Lord. Today, Stephen Nichols describes the legacy of this fifth-century bishop. Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/maximus-of-turin/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/donate/
9/13/2023 • 5 minutes
Jonathan Dickinson
During the Great Awakening, Jonathan Dickinson and his colleagues made plans to found a college to train Presbyterian ministers. Today, Stephen Nichols introduces us to the first president of Princeton University. Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/jonathan-dickinson/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/donate/
9/6/2023 • 5 minutes
10th Anniversary: Why Church History?
The church is a family with a long and glorious story, woven together by God's grace. As we continue to celebrate ten years of 5 Minutes in Church History, today Stephen Nichols underscores the importance of knowing, remembering, and retelling our story. Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/10th-anniversary-why-church-history/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/donate/
8/30/2023 • 5 minutes
10th Anniversary: Revisiting Augustine
Ten years ago, we set out on a journey in this podcast to witness God's faithfulness throughout the story of Christianity. To celebrate a decade of 5 Minutes in Church History, today Stephen Nichols revisits an old friend from our very first episode: Augustine of Hippo. Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/10th-anniversary-augustine-again/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/donate/
8/23/2023 • 5 minutes
Deserted Island: Two More Books for a Stranded Podcast Host
Reading material is essential for anyone headed to a deserted island. Today, the retired host of Renewing Your Mind, Lee Webb, continues a discussion with Stephen Nichols about which books he would bring with him to a deserted island. Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/deserted-island-two-more-books-for-a-stranded-podcast-host/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/donate/
8/16/2023 • 5 minutes
Deserted Island: A Stranded Podcast Host and His Books
The tides have turned, and our host is being sent to a deserted island. Today, Lee Webb swaps places with Stephen Nichols in order to ask him this question: Which five books would you bring to a deserted island? Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/deserted-island-a-stranded-podcast-host-and-his-books/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/donate/
8/9/2023 • 5 minutes
Deserted Island with Lee Webb: A Pilgrim, a Puritan, and a Prisoner of War
Have you ever read a book so compelling that it felt impossible to put down? Today, Dr. Stephen Nichols invites the retired host of the Renewing Your Mind podcast, Lee Webb, to talk about several of his favorite books. Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/deserted-island-with-lee-webb-a-pilgrim-a-puritan-and-a-prisoner-of-war/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/donate/
8/2/2023 • 5 minutes
Deserted Island with Lee Webb: Bunyan, Sproul, and the Trinity Hymnal
There is always time for a good book on a deserted island. Today, Dr. Stephen Nichols sends special guest Lee Webb to this island, allowing him to bring only five books. Which will he choose? Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/deserted-island-with-lee-webb-bunyan-sproul-and-the-trinity-hymnal/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/donate/
7/26/2023 • 5 minutes
Spurgeon’s Church
Where did Charles Spurgeon preach his sermons? Today, Dr. Stephen Nichols takes us on a journey through church history, arriving at the church where Spurgeon would preach until his death in 1892. Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/spurgeons-church/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/donate/
7/19/2023 • 5 minutes
Spurgeon’s Publisher
Charles Spurgeon's sermons have been edifying Christians for hundreds of years. Today, Dr. Stephen Nichols tells the story of two men who teamed up to publish these messages that still encourage believers to this day. Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/spurgeons-publisher/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/donate/
7/12/2023 • 5 minutes
Jonathan Edwards on Deacons
What important role do deacons play in the church? Today, Dr. Stephen Nichols takes us back to 1739 to Jonathan Edwards' church in Northampton, MA, to look at a sermon that Edwards preached on this topic. Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/jonathan-edwards-on-deacons/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/donate/
7/5/2023 • 5 minutes
PA Highway 263
Did you know that 63 colleges can trace their roots back to a humble roadside college that was located in rural Pennsylvania? Today, Dr. Stephen Nichols tells us about the seismic impact that Log College had on church history. Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/pa-highway-263/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/donate/
6/28/2023 • 5 minutes
Deserted Island, Church Fathers Edition: Augustine & Cyril of Alexandria
Writings by the church fathers could offer hours of enriching study on a desert island. Today, special guest Dr. Michael Reeves shares why he would bring works by Augustine and Cyril of Alexandria to his literary oasis. Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/deserted-island-church-fathers-edition-augustine-and-cyril-of-alexandria/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/donate/
6/21/2023 • 5 minutes
Deserted Island, Church Fathers Edition: Irenaeus & Athanasius
Which books written by the church fathers would you want on a deserted island? Today, Dr. Michael Reeves joins Dr. Stephen Nichols to discuss two of the books he would bring. Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/deserted-island-church-fathers-edition-irenaeus-and-athanasius/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/donate/
6/14/2023 • 5 minutes
My Favorite British Monarch
Who was King Edward VI? Today, Dr. Stephen Nichols is joined by special guest Dr. Michael Reeves to discuss the life of this English monarch who helped advance the spread of the Protestant Reformation. Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/my-favorite-british-monarch/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/donate/
6/7/2023 • 5 minutes
Let’s Talk about the Trials in Spurgeon’s Life with Steven Lawson
Throughout his ministry, Charles Spurgeon faced opposition from every side. Today, Dr. Steven Lawson joins Dr. Stephen Nichols to discuss how the Lord used the trials that Spurgeon faced to further the message of the gospel. Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/lets-talk-about-the-trials-in-spurgeons-life-with-steven-lawson/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/donate/
5/31/2023 • 5 minutes
Let’s Talk about Spurgeon's Early Years with Steven Lawson
Did you know that Charles Spurgeon began preaching at the young age of fifteen? Today, Dr. Stephen Nichols is joined by special guest Dr. Steven Lawson to discuss the early years of Spurgeon's ministry. Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/lets-talk-about-spurgeons-early-years-with-steven-lawson/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/donate/
5/24/2023 • 5 minutes
The Apple and the Whale
Church history is filled with biblical imagery. Today, Dr. Stephen Nichols considers the differences in how artists through the centuries have depicted the fruit that Adam and Eve ate in the garden of Eden and the fish that swallowed Jonah. Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/the-apple-and-the-whale/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/donate/
5/17/2023 • 5 minutes
How Jonathan Edwards Wrote Books
Jonathan Edwards spent many hours with a quill pen in his hand writing books, sermons, and more. Today, Dr. Stephen Nichols takes us behind the scenes to explore the writing process of this prolific theologian. Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/how-jonathan-edwards-wrote-books/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/donate/
5/10/2023 • 5 minutes
The Shakers
In 1774, Ann Lee and eight other Shakers arrived on the shores of America. Who were the Shakers? Today, Dr. Stephen Nichols discusses this community of people, walking us through their beliefs and way of life. Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/the-shakers/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/donate/
5/3/2023 • 5 minutes
Bede and the Bible
Although best known for his work as a church historian, the Venerable Bede also spent many hours of his life studying God's Word in great detail. Today, Dr. Stephen Nichols tells us about Bede's contributions as a Bible commentator. Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/bede-and-the-bible/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/donate/
4/26/2023 • 5 minutes
The Haldane Brothers
When the Haldane brothers saw that the church in Scotland needed ministers, they funded academies to train them. Today, Dr. Stephen Nichols introduces two men who supported the work of the church with the resources that God entrusted to them. Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/the-haldane-brothers/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/donate/
4/19/2023 • 5 minutes
Zinzendorf
To this day, if you walk around the city of Bethlehem, PA, you will find churches and schools named after the Moravians. Today, Dr. Stephen Nichols tells us about the influence that Nikolaus Ludwig von Zinzendorf had on the Moravian church. Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/zinzendorf/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/donate/
4/12/2023 • 5 minutes
Rembrandt in the Wind
With every brushstroke, Rembrandt brought biblical characters to life through his artwork. Today, Dr. Stephen Nichols gives us a tour of one of his masterpieces, recounting the life of this famous Dutch painter along the way. Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/rembrandt-in-the-wind/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/donate/
4/5/2023 • 5 minutes
Sunken Treasure
Not too long ago, a sunken treasure was discovered off the coast of Cape Canaveral in Florida. Today, Dr. Stephen Nichols invites us to sift through the sand with him to discover important relics from church history. Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/sunken-treasure/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/donate/
3/29/2023 • 5 minutes
Quick, Get the Horse, Mrs. Cole: Nathan Cole
Before cars were invented, you needed a strong horse to make it to your destination on time. Today, Dr. Stephen Nichols tells the story of a husband and wife who rode for miles to hear George Whitefield preach. Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/quick-get-the-horse-mrs-cole-nathan-cole/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/donate/
3/22/2023 • 5 minutes
Luther and Columbus
What does the Protestant Reformation have to do with the exploration of the New World? Today, Dr. Stephen Nichols discusses the overlap between these two pivotal moments in history and the impact that they had on the church. Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/luther-and-columbus/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/donate/
3/15/2023 • 5 minutes
Amy Carmichael
When Amy Carmichael heard the Great Commission for the first time, her life changed forever. Today, Dr. Stephen Nichols takes us around the world to the places where this beloved missionary labored for the sake of the gospel. Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/amy-carmichael/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/donate/
3/8/2023 • 5 minutes
The Didache
What was it like to be part of the church nearly 2,000 years ago? Today, Dr. Stephen Nichols opens up the Didache, an ancient text that gives us a glimpse into how the early church viewed certain elements of worship and church order. Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/the-didache/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/donate/
3/1/2023 • 5 minutes
Jerusalem
Jerusalem, sometimes called the "holy city," is the epicenter of four major world religions. Today, Dr. Stephen Nichols walks us through the many centuries of religious history that have taken place in this city. Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/jerusalem/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/donate/
2/22/2023 • 5 minutes
Rome
It was from a Roman cell that the Apostle Paul wrote his prison epistles to the church. Today, Dr. Stephen Nichols describes five unforgettable moments from church history that took place in Rome, known as the "eternal city" Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/rome/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/donate/
2/15/2023 • 5 minutes
Ephesus
Along the Mediterranean Sea stands a city that was central to the Apostle Paul's ministry and echoes with biblical history that dates back to the first century. Today, Dr. Stephen Nichols tells us about the ancient port city of Ephesus, located in Turkey. Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/ephesus/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/donate/
2/8/2023 • 5 minutes
Cambridge
The city of Cambridge in the United Kingdom is home to several churches and academic institutions that are steeped in church history. Today, Dr. Stephen Nichols takes us on a tour of this English city. Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/cambridge/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/donate/
2/1/2023 • 5 minutes
American Church History in 5 Movements
While history is composed of accounts about specific people and events, overarching themes also emerge when we look at the big picture. Today, Dr. Stephen Nichols divides American church history into five movements. Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/american-church-history-in-5-movements/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/donate/
1/25/2023 • 5 minutes
Julian the Apostate
Though educated by the leading theologians of his day, Julian the Apostate did not think that Rome would benefit from embracing Christianity. Today, Dr. Stephen Nichols describes the shift toward paganism that occurred under the rule of this emperor. Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/julian-the-apostate/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/donate/
1/18/2023 • 5 minutes
Charnock on Providence
When a shifting political landscape forced him to go into hiding, Stephen Charnock continued to faithfully minister to God's people. Today, Dr. Stephen Nichols discusses how this Puritan's life and work bore witness to the providence of God. Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/charnock-on-providence/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/donate/
1/11/2023 • 5 minutes
Amazing Grace 250th
Christians around the world have been singing John Newton's hymn Amazing Grace for hundreds of years. Today, Dr. Stephen Nichols tells us about the very first time this hymn was ever sung. Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/amazing-grace-250th/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/donate/
1/4/2023 • 5 minutes
7. T Is for Trinity (and Tertullian)
Terms like "Old and New Testament" and "Trinity" are common in modern theological discourse. Who originally coined these terms? Today on our journey back through the archives, Dr. Stephen Nichols helps us get to know the early church father Tertullian. Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/7-t-is-for-trinity-and-tertullian/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/donate/
12/28/2022 • 5 minutes
313. Theologians Who Love Christmas
What do Charles Spurgeon, Dietrich Bonhoeffer, and R.C. Sproul have in common? Today on our journey back through the archives, Dr. Stephen Nichols explains the love for Christmas that these gifted theologians shared. Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/313-theologians-who-love-christmas/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/donate/
12/21/2022 • 5 minutes
408. Handel
George Frideric Handel wanted people to be not only entertained but also moved by his music. Today on our journey back through the archives, Dr. Stephen Nichols provides an overview of Handel's life and work. Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/408-handel/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/donate/
12/14/2022 • 5 minutes
11. Deserted Island Top 5: R.C. Sproul
If you were stranded on an island, you'd have a lot of time to read. Today on our journey back through the archives, Dr. Stephen Nichols challenges Dr. R.C. Sproul to name the five books that he would bring with him to a deserted island. Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/11-deserted-island-top-5-rc-sproul/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/donate/
12/7/2022 • 5 minutes
174. Fort Caroline
Contrary to popular belief, the first Thanksgiving likely did not take place in New England. Today on our journey back through the archives, Dr. Stephen Nichols takes us further south. Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/174-fort-caroline/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/donate/
11/30/2022 • 5 minutes
361. Thanksgiving
The first Thanksgiving was not a family meal but three days of entertainment and feasting. In today's journey back through the archives, Dr. Stephen Nichols describes these events from 1621. Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/361-thanksgiving/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/donate/
11/23/2022 • 5 minutes
76. Augustine on Friendship
True friends are a gift from God. In today's journey back through the archives, Dr. Stephen Nichols introduces us to several of Augustine's close friends and discusses his view on friendship. Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/76-augustine-on-friendship/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/donate/
11/16/2022 • 5 minutes
172. The Three Cappadocians
Who were the Cappadocian Fathers? In today's journey back through the archives, Dr. Stephen Nichols introduces us to three ancient defenders of the doctrine of the Trinity. Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/172-the-three-cappadocians/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/donate/
11/9/2022 • 5 minutes
98. Calvin on Prayer
Prayer is an unmerited privilege and a glorious gift that God gives to His people. In today's journey back through the archives, Dr. Stephen Nichols outlines John Calvin's view on prayer as it appears in the Institutes of the Christian Religion. Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/98-calvin-on-prayer/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/donate/
11/2/2022 • 5 minutes
252. The 95 Theses, Part 2
What did Martin Luther say to those who taught that salvation could be obtained through the merits of the saints? Today on our journey back through the archives, Dr. Stephen Nichols explains Luther's gospel-centered response. Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/252-the-95-theses-part-2/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/donate/
10/26/2022 • 5 minutes
242. Luther on Psalm 118
Martin Luther revered the whole book of Psalms, but there was one psalm that the German Reformer cherished most of all. Today on our journey back through the archives, Dr. Stephen Nichols and Dr. W. Robert Godfrey discuss Luther's "own beloved psalm." Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/242-luther-on-psalm-118/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/donate/
10/19/2022 • 5 minutes
236. Two Kinds of Righteousness
Where does the spiritual fruit that we bear in our Christian lives come from? Today on our journey back through the archives, Dr. Stephen Nichols discusses a noteworthy sermon that Martin Luther preached on two kinds of righteousness. Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/236-two-kinds-of-righteousness/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/donate/
10/12/2022 • 5 minutes
244. Martin & Katie
Martin Luther didn't plan on getting married, but that changed when he met Katharina von Bora. Today on our journey back through the archives, Dr. Stephen Nichols offers a glimpse into the marriage of this Reformation couple--one filled with love, respect, and intentionality. Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/244-martin-and-katie/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/donate/
10/5/2022 • 5 minutes
344. Elisabeth Elliot
After her missionary husband was martyred, she returned to serve the tribe that had killed him. Today on our journey back through the archives, Dr. Stephen Nichols recalls the extraordinary life of Elisabeth Elliot. Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/344-elisabeth-elliot/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/donate/
9/28/2022 • 5 minutes, 15 seconds
332. J.C. Ryle
Sometimes God can use a single verse from His Word to draw us to Himself. Today on our journey back through the archives, Dr. Stephen Nichols looks at a verse that transformed the life of the English bishop J.C. Ryle: Ephesians 2:8. Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/332-jc-ryle/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/donate/
9/21/2022 • 5 minutes, 24 seconds
400. What Governs History?
Many ancient Greeks and Romans believed that history is subject to the arbitrary governance of fate. Today on our journey back through the archives, Dr. Stephen Nichols considers how one scholar from old Princeton responded to this idea. Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/400-what-governs-history/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/donate/
9/14/2022 • 5 minutes, 18 seconds
30. Monica: A Mother’s Prayer
Monica desired only one thing before she left this world: to see her son become a Christian. Today on our journey back through the archives, Dr. Stephen Nichols introduces us to the mother of Augustine--a woman faithful in prayer. Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/30-monica-a-mothers-prayer/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/donate/
9/7/2022 • 5 minutes, 10 seconds
384. C.S. Lewis Essayist
While Europe was embroiled in World War II, brilliant essays flowed from the pen of C.S. Lewis. Today on our journey back through the archives, Dr. Stephen Nichols examines some of the other writings that came from the author of The Chronicles of Narnia. Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/384-cs-lewis-essayist/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/donate/
8/31/2022 • 5 minutes, 20 seconds
102. Peter Martyr Vermigli
How did a devout monk become a Protestant on the run from the authorities because of his faith? Today on our journey back through the archives, Dr. Stephen Nichols introduces us to the life and work of Peter Martyr Vermigli, a daring Reformer. Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/102-peter-martyr-vermigli/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/donate/
8/24/2022 • 5 minutes, 18 seconds
404. History of Atheism
We are witnessing a rise of professing atheists and practical atheism in the 21st century. Where did all this unbelief come from? Today on our journey back through the archives, Dr. Stephen Nichols traces the development of atheism in the modern world. Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/404-history-of-atheism/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/donate/
8/17/2022 • 5 minutes, 15 seconds
259. Johann Sebastian Bach: JJ
The Lutheran composer Johann Sebastian Bach often signed his compositions with the initials “JJ” and “SDG.” Today on our journey back through the archives, Dr. Stephen Nichols explains the significance of these letters. Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/259-johann-sebastian-bach-jj/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/donate/
8/10/2022 • 5 minutes
349. The King James Bible
Each translation of the Bible has a unique history of its own. Today on our journey back through the archives, Dr. Stephen Nichols visits the Museum of the Bible in Washington, DC, to take a look at the history of the English Bible. Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/349-the-king-james-bible/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/donate/
8/3/2022 • 5 minutes, 36 seconds
501. The First Episode
In this podcast, we've observed the history of God's faithfulness to His people over twenty centuries. Today, we begin a journey back through the archives as Dr. Stephen Nichols revisits our very first episode on Augustine's Confessions. Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/the-first-episode/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/donate/
7/27/2022 • 5 minutes, 29 seconds
The 500th Episode with Chris Larson
The history of the Christian faith is a story for all generations. On this special 500th episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols is joined by Ligonier President Chris Larson to discuss the beginnings of this podcast and the importance of knowing our family history as Christians. Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/the-500th-episode-with-chris-larson/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/donate/
7/20/2022 • 5 minutes, 24 seconds
My Favorite Puritan with Michael Reeves
For hundreds of years, Christians have benefited from the rich theological insights of the Puritans. On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols gives special guest Dr. Michael Reeves the challenging assignment of naming one favorite Puritan. Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/my-favorite-puritan-with-michael-reeves/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/donate/
7/13/2022 • 5 minutes
Luther on Galatians
Martin Luther's reputation as a lover of Scripture precedes him. And one of his favorite books of the Bible was Galatians. On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols traces the history of Luther's writings and teachings on this book. Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/luther-on-galatians/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/donate/
7/6/2022 • 5 minutes
Newton on Handel’s Messiah
John Newton is famously known for writing the hymn "Amazing Grace." On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols recounts how Newton's love of both music and God's Word prompted him to preach 50 sermons on Handel's Messiah. Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/newton-on-handels-messiah/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/donate/
6/29/2022 • 5 minutes
Hodge’s Systematic Theology
Before English textbooks were common in American higher education, many were written in Latin. On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols describes how Charles Hodge responded to linguistic shifts at Princeton by writing a three-volume work for his students. Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/hodges-systematic-theology/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/donate/
6/22/2022 • 5 minutes
John Witherspoon
Do you know the story of the only clergyman whose signature is on the Declaration of Independence? On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols presents John Witherspoon: university president, esteemed preacher, and American patriot. Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/john-witherspoon/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/donate/
6/15/2022 • 5 minutes
F.F. Bruce
F.F. Bruce was a biblical scholar who traversed the secular academy with devotion to the truth of the gospel. On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols introduces a theologian who was marked by his love of God's Word. Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/ff-bruce/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/donate/
6/8/2022 • 5 minutes
Louis Berkhof
In his fervent study of God's truth, Louis Berkhof spent years crafting and refining his systematic theology. On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols presents this theologian's life and work. Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/louis-berkhof/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/donate/
6/1/2022 • 5 minutes
Deserted Island with Michael Reeves
Do you find it challenging to choose a favorite book? On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols invites special guest Dr. Michael Reeves to share which five books he would take with him on a deserted island and why. Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/deserted-island-with-michael-reeves/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/donate/
5/25/2022 • 5 minutes
Deserted Island with Harry Reeder
What five books would you take with you on a deserted island? On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols interviews special guest Dr. Harry Reeder about several books that have impacted him. Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/deserted-island-with-harry-reeder/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/donate/
5/18/2022 • 5 minutes
William Perkins
Upon his conversion to Christianity, William Perkins devoted his life to the preaching of God's Word. On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols shares several of Perkins' influential writings, which later impacted many Puritan preachers. Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/william-perkins/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/donate/
5/11/2022 • 5 minutes
John Nelson Darby
John Nelson Darby sacrificed a promising law career to pursue Christian ministry, but it wasn't until a horse-riding injury that his theological ideas took full shape. On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols introduces the founder of dispensationalism. Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/john-nelson-darby/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/donate/
5/4/2022 • 5 minutes
The Liddell Family of Missionaries
Eric Liddell gave up a life of athletic prestige to serve the Lord as a missionary, joining others in his family who had committed their lives to advancing the gospel. On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols introduces the Liddells. Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/ the-liddell-family-of-missionaries/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/donate/
4/27/2022 • 5 minutes
Trending in the 11th Century
If social media had existed in the 11th century, one might have scrolled to find commentary on the Crusades called by Pope Urban II. On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols describes several memorable people and events from the 11th century. Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/trending-in-the-11th-century/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/donate/
4/20/2022 • 5 minutes
Beza
Theodore Beza began at the Geneva Academy as a Greek professor, but when John Calvin died, he assumed the responsibility of leading the school. On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols tells the story of how God directed Beza's life at every unexpected turn. Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/beza/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/donate/
4/13/2022 • 5 minutes
June 5, 1559
On June 5, 1559, John Calvin helped found the academy at Geneva. On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols explains the significant role that this school played in equipping young men to boldly proclaim the gospel. Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/june-5-1559/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/donate/
4/6/2022 • 5 minutes
Trending in the 6th Century
If social media had existed in the 6th century, what topics would be trending? On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols highlights noteworthy events from an age defined by lethal plagues, controversial heresy, and the spread of the gospel. Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/trending-in-the-6th-century/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/donate/
3/30/2022 • 5 minutes
History Makers: David Zadok
Every day, Christians are making church history. On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols interviews Rev. David Zadok, pastor of Grace and Truth Church, to learn about his ministry and the state of the Christian church in Israel. Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/history-makers-david-zadok/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/donate/
3/23/2022 • 5 minutes
Trending in the 3rd Century
During the 3rd century, the church was under constant attack from heresies and persecution. On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols describes the darkness of this age without forgetting the faithful Christians who took a stand for truth. Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/trending-in-the-3rd-century/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/donate/
3/16/2022 • 5 minutes
Deserted Island with Derek Thomas, Part 2
What better reading could you ask to have on a deserted island than a rich collection of Puritan prayers? On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Derek Thomas returns to share several of his favorite books with Dr. Stephen Nichols. Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/deserted-island-with-derek-thomas-part-2/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/donate/
3/9/2022 • 5 minutes
Deserted Island with Derek Thomas, Part 1
From thick theology tomes to biographies of opera composers, what books would Dr. Derek Thomas want to have with him on a deserted island? On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, he joins Dr. Stephen Nichols to share some of his selections. Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/deserted-island-with-derek-thomas-part-1/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/donate/
3/2/2022 • 5 minutes
Corrie ten Boom
After the Nazis invaded Holland, Corrie ten Boom hid more than 700 Jews in her home, six at a time, before helping them escape. On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols tells the story of this remarkable Christian woman. Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/corrie-ten-boom/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/donate/
2/23/2022 • 5 minutes
1377
From corruption and bloodshed to the publication of important works, the year 1377 was a pivotal time in medieval Europe. On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols outlines significant moments from this eventful year in the 14th century. Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/1377/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/donate/
2/16/2022 • 5 minutes
Deserted Island with Conrad Mbewe
Out of all the books that could help you grow in your faith and in your knowledge of God, which five would you bring with you to a deserted island? On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Conrad Mbewe joins Dr. Stephen Nichols to explain his five choices. Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/deserted-island-with-conrad-mbewe/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/donate/
2/9/2022 • 5 minutes
The Hymns of James M. Boice
After receiving a diagnosis of advanced-stage liver cancer, Dr. James Boyce wrote hymns of praise to God in the final months of his life. On this episode of 5 Minute in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols looks at the verses penned by this gifted minister and longtime friend of Dr. R.C. Sproul. Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/the-hymns-of-james-m-boice/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/donate/
2/2/2022 • 5 minutes
Eleazer Wheelock
In 1754, Eleazar Wheelock founded a school to train Native American Christians to become missionaries among their own tribes. On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols talks about Wheelock's involvement in the Great Awakening in colonial New England. Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/eleazer-wheelock/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/donate/
1/26/2022 • 5 minutes
A Most Intriguing Event with Derek Thomas
In 451, leaders in the early church gathered at the city of Chalcedon to defend the Bible's teaching about the divinity and humanity of Jesus Christ. On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Derek Thomas joins Dr. Stephen Nichols to discuss the Chalcedonian Creed. Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/a-most-intriguing-event-with-derek-thomas/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/donate/
1/19/2022 • 5 minutes
Thankful for Shoes
Every time we look down and see shoes on our feet, we should be reminded of our Father's care for us. On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols considers the wonderful ways in which Martin Luther taught children about God in his Small Catechism. Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/thankful-for-shoes/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/donate/
1/12/2022 • 5 minutes
The Puritans 101
Who were the English and American Puritans? On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols introduces us to the keen minds and passionate hearts of those who sought to apply the biblical truths of the Reformation to all of life. Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/the-puritans-101/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/donate/
1/5/2022 • 5 minutes
Resolutions with Edwards
When Jonathan Edwards wrote 70 resolutions for life, he was careful to remind himself of his reliance on God's grace to live for His glory. On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols draws principles from Edwards to help us begin the new year with intentionality. Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/resolutions-with-edwards/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/donate/
12/29/2021 • 5 minutes
Christmas with Spurgeon
Exactly 166 years ago this week, Charles Spurgeon preached a sermon about the child who was born a King. On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols explores the rich insights of Spurgeon's Christmas sermon. Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/christmas-with-spurgeon/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/donate/
12/22/2021 • 5 minutes
Avignon
Why were three elected popes active at the same time in the early 1400s? On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols sketches the Roman Catholic corruption and intrigue surrounding the city of Avignon in the 14th and 15th centuries. Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/avignon/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/donate/
12/15/2021 • 5 minutes
Genesis 6:16
In Genesis 6:16, God instructs Noah to build the roof of the ark over its three decks. On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols records from the roof of the full-scale Ark Encounter in Williamstown, Kentucky, a testament to the truth and authority of the Bible. Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/genesis-616/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/donate/
12/8/2021 • 5 minutes
Buchanan’s Book
In the 19th century, Scottish theologian James Buchanan wrote, “Nothing could well be more new than the old theology of the Reformation.” What did he mean? On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols opens Buchanan’s classic book on justification. Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/buchanans-book/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/donate/
12/1/2021 • 5 minutes
James Buchanan
When hundreds of ministers broke away from the Church of Scotland in the Disruption of 1843, a pastor named James Buchanan became the first moderator of the Free Church. On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols introduces us to this noteworthy theologian. Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/james-buchanan/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/donate/
11/24/2021 • 5 minutes
History Makers: Conrad Mbewe
The church of Jesus Christ is growing by leaps and bounds on the continent of Africa. On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Conrad Mbewe returns to tell Dr. Stephen Nichols what hopes, concerns, and prayers he has for the African church. Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/history-makers-conrad-mbewe/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/donate/
11/17/2021 • 5 minutes
Spurgeon in Africa
The ministry of C.H. Spurgeon has much to teach the church today, not only in the West but also in Africa and around the world. On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Conrad Mbewe joins Dr. Stephen Nichols to discuss the influence of Spurgeon's doctrinally rich preaching. Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/spurgeon-in-africa/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/donate/
11/10/2021 • 5 minutes
Edwards’ First Letter
Jonathan Edwards was a prolific letter writer, and his surviving letters give a fascinating glimpse into life in colonial America. On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols looks at the earliest letter we have from Edwards, written to his sister Mary when he was 12 years old. Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/edwards-first-letter/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/donate/
11/3/2021 • 5 minutes
A Most Intriguing Figure with Derek Thomas
The preaching of D. Martyn Lloyd-Jones had an enormous impact on evangelical Christians in the 20th-century English-speaking world. On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Derek Thomas joins Dr. Stephen Nichols to describe the influence Dr. Lloyd-Jones had on his life. Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/a-most-intriguing-figure-with-derek-thomas/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/donate/
10/27/2021 • 5 minutes
Charlemagne’s Chapel
Soon after he was crowned the Holy Roman Emperor, Charlemagne oversaw the completion of an impressive church at his royal residence. On this episode of 5 Minutes of Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols guides us through the Palatine Chapel, where emperors would be crowned for centuries to come. Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/charlemagnes-chapel/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/donate/
10/20/2021 • 5 minutes
Church History Makers with Ken Mbugua
By God's grace, biblical preaching and theological book publishing are on the rise in the African continent. On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Rev. Ken Mbugua joins Dr. Stephen Nichols to share why he is hopeful about the future of the church in Africa. Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/church-history-makers-with-ken-mbugua/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/donate/
10/13/2021 • 5 minutes
A Most Intriguing Event with Ken Mbugua
God did not give us His Word so it would be known only by elite scholars. On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Rev. Ken Mbugua joins Dr. Stephen Nichols to remember the foundational efforts made during the Reformation to translate the Bible into the languages of everyday people. Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/a-most-intriguing-event-with-ken-mbugua/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/donate/
10/6/2021 • 5 minutes
Deserted Island with Ken Mbugua
Good, gospel-saturated books help us better understand our own hearts, our relationships, and the life of the local church. On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Rev. Ken Mbugua joins Dr. Stephen Nichols to discuss five books he would want with him on a deserted island. Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/deserted-island-with-ken-mbugua/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/donate/
9/29/2021 • 5 minutes
My First Anchor
From his deathbed, John Knox told his wife Margaret, "Go where I cast my first anchor." She immediately opened her Bible to John 17. On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols surveys the life and death of the great Scottish Reformer. Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/my-first-anchor/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/donate/
9/22/2021 • 5 minutes
A Most Intriguing Event with John MacArthur
When we recall the Christians who have suffered for translating God's Word into the language of ordinary people, we should cherish our Bibles all the more. On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. John MacArthur joins Dr. Stephen Nichols to speak about the Reformation translator William Tyndale. Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/a-most-intriguing-event-with-john-macarthur/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/donate/
9/15/2021 • 5 minutes
Deserted Island with John MacArthur
What five books would you take with you to a deserted island? On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols is joined by Dr. John MacArthur as he reminds us of important books from the church's past and present. Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/deserted-island-with-john-macarthur/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/donate/
9/8/2021 • 5 minutes
A Most Intriguing Figure with John MacArthur
One hundred years before Martin Luther’s time, Jan Hus began paving the road to church reformation. On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols is joined by Dr. John MacArthur to discuss this often overlooked figure from church history. Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/a-most-intriguing-figure-with-john-macarthur/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/donate/
9/1/2021 • 5 minutes
R.C. at the Beach: Volume 4
The final volume of Right Now Counts Forever features several themes that were central to Dr. R.C. Sproul's life and enduring legacy. On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols concludes his study of books we should bring to the beach. Throughout the month of August 2021, you can enter to win a free copy of Right Now Counts Forever, a 4-volume book collection containing more than 40 years of R.C. Sproul's columns from Tabletalk magazine. Enter the giveaway: https://giveaway.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/ Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/rc-at-the-beach-volume-4/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/donate/
8/25/2021 • 5 minutes
R.C. at the Beach: Volume 3
From Edgar Allen Poe to John Bunyan, the written word has been a powerful tool used to chisel the forms of our civilization. On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols offers us a glimpse into R.C. Sproul's thoughts on art and literature from the third volume of Right Now Counts Forever. Throughout the month of August 2021, you can enter to win a free copy of Right Now Counts Forever, a 4-volume book collection containing more than 40 years of R.C. Sproul's columns from Tabletalk magazine. Enter the giveaway: https://giveaway.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/ Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/rc-at-the-beach-volume-3/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/donate/
8/18/2021 • 5 minutes
R.C. at the Beach: Volume 2
What is the "big idea" of the Christian life? On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols explores several of Dr. R.C. Sproul's columns from the second volume of the new Right Now Counts Forever collection. Throughout the month of August 2021, you can enter to win a free copy of Right Now Counts Forever, a 4-volume book collection containing more than 40 years of R.C. Sproul's columns from Tabletalk magazine. Enter the giveaway: https://giveaway.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/ Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/rc-at-the-beach-volume-2/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/donate/
8/11/2021 • 5 minutes
R.C. at the Beach: Volume 1
Through the years, Dr. R.C. Sproul helped us give careful thought to topics ranging from the birth of Jesus to professional football. On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols canvasses the first volume of Right Now Counts Forever, a collection of 40 years of theological reflection from Dr. Sproul. Throughout the month of August 2021, you can enter to win a free copy of Right Now Counts Forever, a 4-volume book collection containing more than 40 years of R.C. Sproul's columns from Tabletalk magazine. Enter the giveaway: https://giveaway.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/ Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/rc-at-the-beach-volume-1/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/donate/
8/4/2021 • 5 minutes
R.C. at the Beach: Right Now Counts Forever with Chris Larson
As Dr. R.C. Sproul said, "What we do today counts forever." On this special episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols is joined by Chris Larson to celebrate Ligonier's 50th anniversary and discuss Right Now Counts Forever, a new landmark resource featuring 40 years of Dr. Sproul's trusted teaching. Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/rc-at-the-beach-right-now-counts-forever-with-chris-larson/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/donate/
8/1/2021 • 5 minutes
The Holy Spirit at the Beach
As we were once dead in our trespasses and sin, we needed to be brought from death to life. On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols shows how this truth is outlined in John Owen's book The Holy Spirit. Throughout the month of July 2021, you can enter to win a free copy of the Treasures of John Owen Box Set, a 5-volume book collection that contains some of John Owen's most cherished writings. Enter the giveaway: https://giveaway.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/ Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/the-holy-spirit-at-the-beach/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/donate/
7/28/2021 • 5 minutes
The Glory of Christ at the Beach
At the end of his life, John Owen penned his final book, The Glory of Christ. What were the last words this towering figure of the faith wanted to tell us? On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols explores Owen's writings on one of the greatest privileges we have as believers, both in this world and for eternity. Throughout the month of July 2021, you can enter to win a free copy of the Treasures of John Owen Box Set, a 5-volume book collection that contains some of John Owen's most cherished writings. Enter the giveaway: https://giveaway.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/ Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/the-glory-of-christ-at-the-beach/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/donate/
7/21/2021 • 5 minutes
Mortification of Sin at the Beach
Why should we mortify, or "put to death," our sin? On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols highlights John Owen's book on the new birth and our three-front battle against sin. Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/mortification-of-sin-at-the-beach/ Throughout the month of July 2021, you can enter to win a free copy of the Puritan Classics Box Set, a 10-volume collection of cherished Christian books by 17th-century pastors and theologians. Enter the giveaway: https://giveaway.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/donate/
7/14/2021 • 5 minutes
Owen at the Beach with Sinclair Ferguson
At John Owen's funeral, it was said that "the great burden of his life was to see people grow in holiness." On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols speaks with Dr. Sinclair Ferguson on this 17th-century theologian, a man of letters and a man of action. Throughout the month of July 2021, you can enter to win a free copy of the Treasures of John Owen Box Set, a 5-volume book collection that contains some of John Owen's most cherished writings. Enter the giveaway: https://giveaway.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/ Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/owen-at-the-beach-with-sinclair-ferguson/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/donate/
7/7/2021 • 5 minutes
William Bridge at the Beach
Our God is a merciful God, extending His grace freely to poor, downcast sinners in need. On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols discusses A Lifting Up for the Downcast by William Bridge. Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/william-bridge-at-the-beach/ Throughout the month of June 2021, you can enter to win a free copy of the Puritan Classics Box Set, a 10-volume collection of cherished Christian books by 17th-century pastors and theologians. Enter the giveaway: https://giveaway.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/donate/
6/30/2021 • 5 minutes
Thomas Brooks at the Beach
After he began preaching, Thomas Brooks wrote a book to remind us of the devices of Satan--and the "precious remedies" God has given us to combat them. On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols takes a look at the next Puritan book we should bring to the beach. Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/thomas-brooks-at-the-beach/ Throughout the month of June 2021, you can enter to win a free copy of the Puritan Classics Box Set, a 10-volume collection of cherished Christian books by 17th-century pastors and theologians. Enter the giveaway: https://giveaway.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/donate/
6/23/2021 • 5 minutes
Watson Again
In his book All Things for Good, Thomas Watson calls us to love and trust in the Lord whose ways are above our ways. On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols looks at the final parts of Watson's book and the important doctrines they uncover. Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/watson-again/ Throughout the month of June 2021, you can enter to win a free copy of the Puritan Classics Box Set, a 10-volume collection of cherished Christian books by 17th-century pastors and theologians. Enter the giveaway: https://giveaway.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/donate/
6/16/2021 • 5 minutes
Thomas Watson at the Beach
The Puritans were a people committed to the deep study of the Word of God. On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols introduces us to All Things for Good, Thomas Watson's meditation and application of Romans 8:28. Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/thomas-watson-at-the-beach/ Throughout the month of June 2021, you can enter to win a free copy of the Puritan Classics Box Set, a 10-volume collection of cherished Christian books by 17th-century pastors and theologians. Enter the giveaway: https://giveaway.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/donate/
6/9/2021 • 5 minutes
Puritans at the Beach with Sinclair Ferguson
Why read the Puritans--and why read them "again and again, as old friends"? On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols speaks with Dr. Sinclair Ferguson on the richness and nourishment he gleans from the old Puritan writers. Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/puritans-at-the-beach-with-sinclair-ferguson/ Throughout the month of June 2021, you can enter to win a free copy of the Puritan Classics Box Set, a 10-volume collection of cherished Christian books by 17th-century pastors and theologians. Enter the giveaway: https://giveaway.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/donate/
6/2/2021 • 5 minutes
A Puritan Poet
Just three years before Anne Bradstreet's death, this weary Puritan penned verses describing a longing for eternity and escape from the cares of this world. On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols reads from his wife's book on Bradstreet, America's first published poet. Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/a-puritan-poet/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/donate/
5/26/2021 • 5 minutes
Jerome of Prague
Jerome of Prague, like the Reformers who would come a century later, believed that the teachings of the Bible should be directly studied and obeyed by every Christian. On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols looks at this 15th-century martyr. Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/jerome-of-prague/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/donate/
5/19/2021 • 5 minutes
Monothelitism
Does Jesus have one will since He is one person? Or does He have two wills because He is truly God and truly man? On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols describes an ancient heresy that was a challenge to Christ's humanity. Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/monothelitism/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/donate/
5/12/2021 • 5 minutes
Bibline
C.H. Spurgeon once said of a man, ";He cannot speak without quoting a text, for his very soul is full of the Word of God." On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols looks at this man whose "blood is bibline." Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/bibline/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/donate/
5/5/2021 • 5 minutes
Lewis on Learning in War-Time
During World War II, C.S. Lewis addressed the student body at Oxford University to answer the question, "Should we learn in wartime?" On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols looks at how learning in the midst of crisis can be a way to remind us of the divine reality of heaven. Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/lewis-on-learning-in-war-time/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/donate/
4/28/2021 • 5 minutes
Middleburg
During the reign of Queen Elizabeth, one non-conformist, exiled Puritan drew up an important Reformation text, instructing ministers to lead their congregation through the entire Word of God. On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols explores the history of Thomas Cartwright and his Middleburg Liturgy. Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/middleburg/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/donate/
4/21/2021 • 5 minutes
Burned-Over District
Unlike the Great Awakening of the 18th century, the revivalist preaching of the so-called "Second Great Awakening" left many people disillusioned with Christianity. On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols takes us to a region in New York that still bears scars from the 19th century. Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/burned-over-district/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/donate/
4/14/2021 • 5 minutes
The Symbol
Nearly fifty years ago, R.C. Sproul penned The Symbol, expositing phrases from the Apostles' Creed to articulate truths about our holy God and His work in our lives. On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols surveys the purpose, contents, and even humor embedded in Dr. Sproul's first published book. Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/the-symbol/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/donate/
4/7/2021 • 5 minutes
The Christian Admiral
Founder of a newspaper, a radio program, and several Christian organizations, Carl McIntire was incredibly influential in the 20th-century fundamentalist movement. On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols tells the story of this colorful figure. Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/the-christian-admiral/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/donate/
3/31/2021 • 5 minutes
Collective Wisdom
If we study the Bible without ever considering the collective wisdom of Christians who came before us, we are impoverishing ourselves of a wealth of insight. On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols examines J. Gresham Machen's thoughts on reading Scripture in light of church history. Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/collective-wisdom/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/donate/
3/24/2021 • 5 minutes
Life Together
Although the seminary at Finkenwalde was shut down by the Nazis in 1937, Dietrich Bonhoeffer continued to work and write in order to help Christians understand the life and ministry of the church in this world. On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols analyzes Bonhoeffer's classic book Life Together. Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/life-together/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/donate/
3/17/2021 • 5 minutes
An Underground Seminary
After the national church in Germany endorsed the Nazi party, Dietrich Bonhoeffer began an underground seminary to train ministers to defend the truth of God's Word. On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols describes the challenges that this small school faced under Nazi suppression. Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/an-underground-seminary/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/donate/
3/10/2021 • 5 minutes
Augustine: Kingdom without End
As his body grew frail and the great city of Rome burned, Augustine laid his hope in "the city that has foundations" (Heb. 11:10). On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols examines Augustine's written masterpiece The City of God. Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/augustine-kingdom-without-end/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/donate/
3/3/2021 • 5 minutes
Augustine: The Triumph of Grace
Augustine fervently defended the truth of God's grace against distortions. In fact, his whole life was a testimony to the triumph of grace. On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols considers Augustine's famous controversy with Pelagius. Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/augustine-the-triumph-of-grace/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/donate/
2/24/2021 • 5 minutes
Augustine: The Bishop and the General
As a bishop, Augustine counseled people from all walks of life, including the Roman general Boniface. On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols considers how their correspondence gives us great insight into the way Augustine cared for souls. Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/augustine-the-bishop-and-the-general/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/donate/
2/17/2021 • 5 minutes
Augustine: Bishop
Augustine was installed as bishop of Hippo Regius when he was 41 years old, and he held this position until his dying day. On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols offers a glimpse into what comprised Augustine's service and ministry. Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/augustine-bishop/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/donate/
2/10/2021 • 5 minutes
Augustine: Teacher
Augustine had published books before his conversion. But in AD 386, he began a whole new writing career. On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols examines several of these early, influential works. Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/augustine-teacher/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/donate/
2/3/2021 • 5 minutes
Augustine: A Garden in Milan
At first, Augustine had no real interest in Christianity. Then he heard the preaching of Ambrose. On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols examines how the Lord brought about the conversion of this influential figure. Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/augustine-a-garden-in-milan/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/donate/
1/27/2021 • 5 minutes
Augustine: Voyage to Rome
Augustine the brilliant student went on to become Augustine the teacher, and his fame was on the rise. But something was missing. On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols reveals what Augustine was searching for that ultimately led him to Rome. Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/augustine-voyage-to-rome/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/donate/
1/20/2021 • 5 minutes
Augustine: Africa
Where did the famous church father Augustine come from? On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols paints a picture of Augustine's early life in the North African village of Thagaste. Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/augustine-africa/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/donate/
1/13/2021 • 5 minutes
Augustine: Why?
The writings of Augustine overflow with God's grace and power in the lives of His people. On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols begins to closely examine the life of Augustine of Hippo. Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/augustine-why/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/donate/
1/6/2021 • 5 minutes
Mayflower 400
King James I was opposed to religious dissenters, fearing they would divide the Church of England. Consequently, the Puritans advocated for a total, 3,000-mile separation. On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols describes the tumultuous journey of the Mayflower from England to the New World. Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/mayflower-400/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/donate/
12/30/2020 • 5 minutes
Christmas 800
On Christmas Day AD 800, Pope Leo III crowned Charlemagne as the Holy Roman Emperor. On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols explains how this crucial moment directed the shape of Christian civilization for the next 700 years. Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/christmas-800/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/donate/
12/23/2020 • 5 minutes
Aaron Burr Sr.
A key witness of the First Great Awakening, Aaron Burr Sr. made a lasting impact on the American colonies in the 18th century. On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols traces the life of this notable minister, author, educator, and Princeton University co-founder. Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/aaron-burr-sr/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/donate/
12/16/2020 • 5 minutes
The Conversion of Jonathan Edwards
In his younger years, Jonathan Edwards objected to the sovereignty of God as a "horrible doctrine." On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols shows how that all changed at Edwards' conversion. Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/the-conversion-of-jonathan-edwards/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/donate/
12/9/2020 • 5 minutes
Equipping the Spanish-Speaking Church
History is being made in Central America as the Lord builds up His church in the biblical doctrines of the historic Christian faith. On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Pastor Sugel Michelén joins Dr. Stephen Nichols to discuss the encouraging future of the Spanish-speaking church. Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/equipping-the-spanish-speaking-church/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/donate/
How should we contend for the truth claims of Christianity? On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols continues his discussion of apologetic methods in the 20th century. Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/20th-century-apologetics-presuppositions-and-evidence/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/donate/
11/25/2020 • 5 minutes
20th-Century Apologetics: Addressing Modernism
At the start of the 20th century, the church began to face new challenges to Christianity. On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols explains several of the methods Christians used to defend their faith in a changing world. Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/20th-century-apologetics-addressing-modernism/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/donate/
11/18/2020 • 5 minutes
History of the Spanish Bible: Latin America
Though European colonies appeared throughout the New World in the 16th century, the Reformation did not take hold in Latin America for centuries. On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Pastor Sugel Michelén joins Dr. Stephen Nichols again to consider how the Spanish Bible finally crossed the Atlantic. Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/history-of-the-spanish-bible-latin-america/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/donate/
11/11/2020 • 5 minutes
History of the Spanish Bible: Europe
Despite fearsome opposition during the Spanish Inquisition, Protestants worked diligently to translate God's Word for Spanish readers. On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Pastor Sugel Michelén joins Dr. Stephen Nichols to outline the history of the Spanish Bible. Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/history-of-the-spanish-bible-europe/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/donate/
11/4/2020 • 5 minutes
The Icelandic Reformation
In the 16th century, a German-made printing press was shipped across the sea to Iceland, and the first book printed on it was an Icelandic New Testament. On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols explains how the Reformation reached this North Atlantic nation. Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/the-icelandic-reformation/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/donate/
10/28/2020 • 5 minutes
Handel
From the prophecies of the coming Christ to the day of judgment when He comes in glory, Handel's Messiah reflects on the promises and person of Jesus. On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols offers a synopsis of what might be considered Handel's magnum opus. Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/handel/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/donate/
10/21/2020 • 5 minutes
Troublechurch Browne
Meet "Troublechurch" Browne, the man who was arrested for his views 32 times over the course of his ministry. On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols surveys the life and work of this English separatist. Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/troublechurch-browne/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/donate/
10/14/2020 • 5 minutes
Martin Micronius
Who was Martin Micronius, and why was he important? On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols offers a brief synopsis of this sixteenth-century Dutch Reformer who was intent on carefully ministering the Word of God. Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/martin-micronius/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/donate/
10/7/2020 • 5 minutes
Alexander of Hales
From his beginnings in a remote English valley, Alexander of Hales went on to field theological questions for three straight days at the University of Paris. On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols surveys the history of the medieval scholar who would become known as "The Irrefutable Teacher." Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/alexander-of-hales/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/donate/
9/30/2020 • 5 minutes
History of Atheism
We are witnessing a rise of professing atheists and practical atheism in the 21st century. Where did all this unbelief come from? On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols outlines the development of atheistic thinking in the modern world. Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/history-of-atheism/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/donate/
9/23/2020 • 5 minutes
Luther and Difficult Times
In 1524, German peasants began a massive revolt against the lords and princes of the land, and the Roman Catholic Church blamed Martin Luther. How did he respond? On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols tells the gripping story. Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/luther-and-difficult-times/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/donate/
9/16/2020 • 5 minutes
Sawdust
In the first half the 20th century, no tent revival meeting was complete without an invitation to "hit the sawdust trail." On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols paints a vivid picture of this memorable era. Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/sawdust/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/donate/
9/9/2020 • 5 minutes
Glossa Ordinaria
What was the most important book of the 12th century? On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols reveals his answer: a collection of annotations and commentaries that became the standard text in biblical studies for 600 years. Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/glossa-ordinaria/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/donate/
9/2/2020 • 5 minutes
What Governs History?
What guides the direction of history? Fate? Random chance? On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols evaluates how one Princetonian scholar went about answering this age-old question. Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/what-governs-history/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/donate/
8/26/2020 • 5 minutes
1910 Edinburgh Missionary Conference
Early in the 20th century, 1,200 Protestants gathered in Scotland to discuss the global need of evangelism and missions. On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols probes into five important features of this 10-day conference. Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/1910-edinburgh-missionary-conference/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/donate/
8/19/2020 • 5 minutes
The Plague of Justinian I
As he sought to bring back the glory days of the Roman Empire through conquest, lawmaking, and building projects, Justinian I was faced with the first pandemic of recorded history. On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols looks into the life of an emperor who survived the bubonic plague. Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/the-plague-of-justinian-i/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/donate/
8/12/2020 • 5 minutes
Augustine’s Teenage Coauthor
Augustine's beloved son, Adeodatus, died as a teenager. A year earlier, they worked together on a book. On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols examines their insightful volume and the relationship Augustine shared with his son. Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/augustines-teenage-coauthor/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/donate/
8/5/2020 • 5 minutes
Christina Rossetti
Writing of God's redeeming grace, Christina Rossetti described herself as a "broken bowl" that had been remolded into "a royal cup for Him, my King." On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols examines the works of this Victorian-era poet. Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/christina-rossetti/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/donate/
7/29/2020 • 5 minutes
Carthage
Second only to Rome within the empire, the city of Carthage was the site of many significant and foundational events in ancient church history. On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols provides an overview of this Mediterranean harbor city and its influence. Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/carthage/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/donate/
7/22/2020 • 5 minutes
To the People
The Reformation was characterized by a desire to deliver the truth of God's Word out of the hands of a privileged few and into the minds of everyday people. On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Stephen Nichols examines how Martin Luther embodied this principle by using the printing press to publish his writings in German. Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/to-the-people/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/donate/
7/15/2020 • 5 minutes
James Montgomery Boice
From the Philadelphia Conference on Reformed Theology to the International Council on Biblical Inerrancy, James Montgomery Boice partnered with R.C. Sproul and others to defend the gospel and build up the church. On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols takes a look at the life and legacy of Dr. Boice. Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/james-montgomery-boice/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/donate/
7/8/2020 • 5 minutes
Moby Dick Chapter Eight
Some people are surprised to discover the rich theological reflections that appear in Herman Melville's classic novel Moby Dick. On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols examines the vivid description of a pulpit in an early chapter of the book. Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/moby-dick-chapter-eight/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/donate/
7/1/2020 • 5 minutes
The Pulpit
Some ministers preach from pulpits, others speak from lecterns, and some stand beside a table. Does it really make any difference? On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols observes the significant role of the pulpit from the earliest centuries of the church. Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/the-pulpit/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/donate/
6/24/2020 • 5 minutes
David Hume the Philosopher
Can we have certainty in what we know? On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols revisits David Hume, the father of philosophical skepticism. Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/david-hume-the-philosopher/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/donate/
6/17/2020 • 5 minutes
David Hume the Historian
Today, David Hume is known primarily for his skeptical philosophy. But in his own day, Hume received more recognition for his historical writings. On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols examines Hume's account of the Westminster Assembly. Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/david-hume-the-historian/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/donate/
6/10/2020 • 5 minutes
Who Is Strong?
For 35 years, James Strong labored to catalog more than 14,000 Hebrew and Greek words into the exhaustive concordance that bears his name. On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols examines Strong's influence on biblical studies and Bible translation. Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/who-is-strong/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/donate/
6/3/2020 • 5 minutes
Paul's Religion
Is the Jesus of the Gospels different from the Christ taught by the Apostle Paul? On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols outlines the controversy that drove J. Gresham Machen to write his monumental book on the origin of Christianity. Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/pauls-religion/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/donate/
5/27/2020 • 5 minutes
Isaac Newton
The more Isaac Newton studied God’s universe, the more he was led to worship the Creator. On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols introduces us to the father of modern science. Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/isaac-newton/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/donate/
5/20/2020 • 5 minutes
5 Cathedrals
The great cathedrals of Europe have witnessed centuries of church history, and each has stories of its own to tell. On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols takes us on a journey to five of these iconic structures. Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/5-cathedrals/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/donate/
5/13/2020 • 5 minutes
C.S. Lewis, Essayist
While Europe was embroiled in World War II, brilliant essays flowed from the pen of C.S. Lewis. On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols examines some of the other writings that came from the author of The Chronicles of Narnia. Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/c-s-lewis-essayist/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/donate/
5/6/2020 • 5 minutes
Dispensationalism
When we hear the word "dispensational," our thoughts might turn to discussions of prophecy and the rapture. But there's far more to this theological movement. On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols defines four major features of dispensationalism. Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/dispensationalism/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/donate/
4/29/2020 • 5 minutes
Faith in Times of Plague - Grimké
When a health crisis ravages the land, God's people are presented with a unique opportunity to take inventory of their spiritual lives. On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols observes how Francis Grimke guided his congregation through the Spanish flu of 1918. Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/faith-in-times-of-plague-grimke/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/donate/
4/22/2020 • 5 minutes
Faith in Times of Plague - Luther
Ours is not the first age in which Christians have faced the danger of viruses and infectious disease. On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols assesses how Martin Luther advised his church to trust in God during a deadly outbreak of the bubonic plague. Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/faith-in-times-of-plague-luther/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/donate/
4/15/2020 • 5 minutes
The Church in Times of Crisis
In a time of crisis, will we give up all hope? Or will we trust that God is orchestrating all things to accomplish His good purposes in the world? On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols turns to Augustine of Hippo as an example of steadfast faith amid challenging circumstances. Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/the-church-in-times-of-crisis/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/donate/
4/8/2020 • 5 minutes
5 Latin Words
How good is your Latin? On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols defines five Latin terms that have been used by Christians through the ages to describe key theological truths. Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/5-latin-words/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/donate/
4/1/2020 • 5 minutes
5 Reformers on the Psalms
Every one of the Psalms is about Christ, so every psalm has something to say to the church. On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols highlights five Protestant Reformers who wrote commentaries on the book of Psalms. Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/5-reformers-on-the-psalms/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/donate/
3/25/2020 • 5 minutes
Re-Thinking Missions
In 1932, a report was issued declaring that the church needed a new mission that represented the realities of the 20th century. On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols explains why J. Gresham Machen's commitment to the gospel required him to part ways with a changing denomination. Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/re-thinking-missions/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/donate/
3/18/2020 • 5 minutes
3 Types of Theology
Can you explain the difference between Augustinianism, Pelagianism, and Semi-Pelagianism? On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols outlines three overarching views in church history of the relationship between sin and grace. Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/3-types-of-theology/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/donate/
3/11/2020 • 5 minutes
The Watchmaker
Just as the existence of a wristwatch requires a watchmaker, so the cosmos necessitates the existence of God. On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols walks through William Paley's teleological argument for God's existence. Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/the-watchmaker/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/donate/
3/4/2020 • 5 minutes
A Very Long Word
What is disestablishmentarianism? On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols surveys the relationship between church and state throughout the centuries. Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/a-very-long-word/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/donate/
2/26/2020 • 5 minutes
Augustus Toplady
As a brand-new pastor just out of college, Augustus Toplady wrote those memorable words, "Nothing in my hand I bring; simply to Thy cross I cling." On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols retells the short life of this London pastor and poet. Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/augustus-toplady/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/donate/
2/19/2020 • 5 minutes
Blaise Pascal
"Pascal," the name of a programming language and a unit for measuring internal pressure, were both named after Blaise Pascal. On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols discusses this French mathematician, physicist, philosopher, and theologian. Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/blaise-pascal/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/donate/
2/12/2020 • 5 minutes
The Cambridge Seven
In 1885, seven British aristocrats committed themselves to delivering the gospel to the ends of the earth. On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols presents the men who have been called the Dream Team of Missions. Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/the-cambridge-seven/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/donate/
2/5/2020 • 5 minutes
Sir William Ramsay
Through his study of Scripture and archeology, Sir William Ramsay stunned his liberal colleagues by concluding that the New Testament is reliable. On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols introduces this biblical scholar from the nineteenth and twentieth centuries. Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/sir-william-ramsay/ A donor supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/donate/
1/29/2020 • 5 minutes
Bonus Episode: 6 Years of 5 Minutes
What are some of your favorite moments from 5 Minutes in Church History? On this special bonus episode, Dr. Nichols, Lee Webb, and Nathan W. Bingham reflect on the past six years of this podcast. For a limited time, you can download Dr. Nichols' ebook 5 Minutes in Church History for free. Visit https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/freeoffer to receive your copy.
1/27/2020 • 27 minutes, 9 seconds
The Vulgate
At the end of the fourth century, the church father Jerome led a team of translators to produce a Latin edition of the Bible. On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols examines the Vulgate. Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/the-vulgate/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://gift.ligonier.org/1041/5-minutes-in-church-history
1/22/2020 • 5 minutes
Robertus Stephanus
In 1550, Robertus Stephanus published what has come to be known as the Textus Receptus, the edition of the Greek New Testament that would form the basis of Bible translations for centuries. On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Stephen Nichols conveys the importance of this giant in Bible printing history. Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/robertus-stephanus A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/donate/
1/15/2020 • 5 minutes
The Jesus People
From the birth of Christian rock to the rise of the Christian bookstore industry, American evangelicalism was significantly shaped by the Jesus People in the 1970s. On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Stephen Nichols discusses this unique and influential movement. Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/the-jesus-people/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/donate/
1/8/2020 • 5 minutes
Resolutions with Jonathan Edwards
Prior to his twentieth birthday, Jonathan Edwards wrote 70 resolutions to guide and guard the direction of his life. On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols analyzes some of Edwards' resolutions related to time management, Bible reading, and growing in self-control. Read the transcript. A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries.
1/1/2020 • 5 minutes
Three Christmas Hymns
Christmas comes with the reminiscent sound of carols and hymns. On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Stephen Nichols explores the intriguing history behind three classic Christmas hymns. Read the transcript. A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries.
12/25/2019 • 5 minutes
Scriptorium: John Bunyan & Persecution
Just as the Lord promised, the people of God have suffered greatly for His name throughout history. Recorded at the Scriptorium in Orlando, Florida, Stephen Nichols examines books by John Bunyan and John Foxe on the topic of suffering and martyrdom on this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History. Read the transcript. A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries.
12/18/2019 • 5 minutes
Scriptorium: The Van Kampen Collection
The revolutionary advent of the printing press made it possible to get the Bible into more hands more easily. On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols looks through the Van Kampen Collection of Bibles and Bible memorabilia at the Scriptorium in Orlando, Florida. Read the transcript. A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries.
12/11/2019 • 5 minutes
Scriptorium: Spurgeon's Letters
You can gain interesting glimpses into someone’s life by reading the mail he sends out. On location at the Scriptorium in Orlando, Florida, Stephen Nichols pages through the letters of C.H. Spurgeon on this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History. Read the transcript. A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries.
12/4/2019 • 5 minutes
Thanksgiving
What was it like on the first Thanksgiving? On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols reads from Edward Winslow’s letter describing the festivities. Read the transcript. A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries.
11/27/2019 • 5 minutes
Trending in the 7th Century
From Beowulf to Boniface III, the seventh century was a period of rich literary history and significant theological controversy. On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols grants us an overview of seventh-century people and events. Read the transcript. A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries.
11/20/2019 • 5 minutes
5 Ways of Theology, Part 2
Have you ever heard of elenctic theology? On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols addresses the definition and history of this theological method. Read the transcript. A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries.
11/13/2019 • 5 minutes
5 Ways of Theology, Part 1
What is the difference between dogmatic theology and systematic theology? On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols defines several major strands of theological study that have been prominent throughout church history. Read the transcript. A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries.
11/6/2019 • 5 minutes
Patrons of the Reformation
The Reformers did not stand alone in the cause of biblical truth. On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols introduces several of the patrons who generously supported the Reformers in their cause. Read the transcript. A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries.
10/30/2019 • 5 minutes
Who Was Anne Locke?
The life of Anne Locke spanned the crucial decades of the English Reformation. On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols describes this sixteenth-century poet and translator. Read the transcript. A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries.
10/23/2019 • 5 minutes
Maximus the Confessor
What is Dyothelitism? On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols introduces Maximus the Confessor, one of the early champions of this doctrine. Read the transcript. A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries.
10/16/2019 • 5 minutes
Fatal Books
On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols teaches on several books in church history that have proven fatal to their authors and printers. Read the transcript. A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries.
10/9/2019 • 5 minutes
17 in 1765
On June 17, 1765, seventeen men petitioned the court of Williamsburg to establish a Presbyterian church in the Anglican colony of Virginia. On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols goes on location to tell their story. Read the transcript. A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries.
10/2/2019 • 5 minutes
Bruton Parish
On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Steven Lawson joins Dr. Stephen Nichols in Williamsburg, Virginia, the place where George Whitefield began his first American evangelistic tour. Read the transcript. A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries.
9/25/2019 • 5 minutes
Samuel Davies
On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols is on location in Virginia to remember the pastor and educator who influenced Thomas Jefferson in his appeals for religious liberty. Read the transcript. A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries.
9/18/2019 • 5 minutes
Luther's Pastor
We sometimes have a vision of men like Martin Luther standing alone against the world. But even Luther needed a pastor. On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History recorded live at the Museum of the Bible in Washington, DC, Dr. Stephen Nichols acquaints us with Johannes Bugenhagen. Read the transcript. A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries.
9/11/2019 • 5 minutes
The King James Bible
On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols visits the Museum of the Bible in Washington, DC to take a look at one of the most renowned translations of Scripture in the English language. Read the transcript. A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries.
9/4/2019 • 5 minutes
Christianity in Africa: Past and Present, Part 2
For a church to become healthy and grow, sometimes it simply requires the right resources in the right hands. On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Ken Mbugua and Dr. Stephen Nichols consider the present challenges and hopeful future of Christianity in Africa. Read the transcript. A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries.
8/28/2019 • 5 minutes
Christianity in Africa: Past and Present, Part 1
Ken Mbugua, Managing Director of Ekklesia Africa, joins Dr. Stephen Nichols on this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History to discuss the history of missions in Africa. Read the transcript. A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries.
8/21/2019 • 5 minutes
Savannah
On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols takes us to the oldest city in Georgia, where both George Whitefield and John Wesley preached. Read the transcript. A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries.
8/14/2019 • 5 minutes
Charles Simeon
Charles Simeon wanted a church that took the gospel seriously. On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols introduces us to an Anglican minister with an intense passion for preaching, missions, and church reform. Read the transcript. A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries.
8/7/2019 • 5 minutes
Elisabeth Elliot
After her missionary husband was martyred, she returned to serve the tribe that had killed him. On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols recalls the extraordinary life of Elisabeth Elliot. Read the transcript. A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries.
7/31/2019 • 5 minutes
The Angel of the Reformation
On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols introduces us to Swiss theologian Pierre Viret and explains how he got the nickname “the angel of the Reformation.” Read the transcript. A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries.
7/24/2019 • 5 minutes
Deserted Island Top 5: Pepe Mendoza
On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols asks Pepe Mendoza to share five books he would want on a deserted island. Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/deserted-island-top-5-pepe-mendoza>/
7/17/2019 • 5 minutes
Latin American Pioneers
On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Pepe Mendoza joins Dr. Stephen Nichols to introduce the pioneers who brought the gospel to Latin America. Read the transcript:https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/latin-american-pioneers/
7/10/2019 • 5 minutes
The Leipzig Disputation
On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Drs. Stephen Nichols and W. Robert Godfrey discuss a key moment that helped shape Martin Luther's understanding of the authority of Scripture. Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/the-leipzig-disputation/
7/3/2019 • 5 minutes
Fuller Seminary
On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols is on location at Fuller Theological Seminary in Pasadena, California, to discuss its founding and history. Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/fuller-seminary/
6/26/2019 • 5 minutes
Sister Aimee
On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols introduces us to one of the most colorful yet overlooked figures in church history: Aimee Semple McPherson. Read the transcript:https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/sister-aimee/
6/19/2019 • 5 minutes
Azusa Street
On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols takes us to 312 Azusa Street, the warehouse-turned-church in Los Angeles where William Seymour led his famous revival meetings. Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/azusa-street/
6/12/2019 • 5 minutes
California Missions Trail
On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols takes us to the Royal Road, a 600-mile trail that connects 21 missionary outposts in California. Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/california-missions-trail
6/5/2019 • 5 minutes
History Makers with Sugel Michelén
On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, special guest Pastor Sugel Michelén joins Dr. Stephen Nichols to share how the Lord is awakening His people in Latin America. Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/history-makers-sugel-michelen/
5/29/2019 • 5 minutes
Deserted Island Top 5: Sugel Michelén
On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols asks Sugel Michelén to share five books he would want on a deserted island. Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/deserted-island-top-5-sugel-michelen/
5/22/2019 • 5 minutes
Adam Smith
How does theology relate to the economy? On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols looks at the life and thought of Adam Smith, Scottish Presbyterian and founder of modern economics. Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/adam-smith/
5/15/2019 • 5 minutes
J.C. Ryle
On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols looks at the Bible verse that God used to convert J.C. Ryle. Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/j-c-ryle/
5/8/2019 • 5 minutes
Rowland Taylor
Rowland Taylor never wrote any books. He never published a sermon. Yet he faithfully preached the gospel and gave his life as a martyr. On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols looks at Taylor’s legacy. Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/rowland-taylor/
5/1/2019 • 5 minutes
Perpetua and Felicitas
Jesus gives us the strength to endure through suffering. On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols and Jeremy Vuolo recount the story of two bold martyrs. Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/perpetua-and-felicitas/
4/24/2019 • 5 minutes
Church History with Jeremy Vuolo
On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols and Jeremy Vuolo discuss the remarkable influence of Martyn Lloyd-Jones and George Whitefield. Read the transcript.
4/17/2019 • 5 minutes
The Influence Behind C.S. Lewis
On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols introduces us to the writer C.S. Lewis regarded as his “master.” Read the transcript.
4/10/2019 • 5 minutes
History Makers: John MacArthur
Church history is still being made in our day. On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, special guest Dr. John MacArthur joins Dr. Stephen Nichols to share insights from his almost fifty years of pastoral ministry. Read the transcript.
4/3/2019 • 5 minutes
What Is An Evangelical?
On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols explains what a joke from George Whitefield has to do with modern-day evangelicalism. Read the transcript.
3/27/2019 • 5 minutes
SBTS
On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols visits the campus of The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary and gives us a tour of its rich history. Read the transcript.
3/20/2019 • 5 minutes
Braşov, Transylvania
On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols introduces us to the man who brought the Reformation to Transylvania. Read the transcript.
3/13/2019 • 5 minutes
Turku, Finland
On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols introduces us to a farmer from Finland who gained the respect of Martin Luther. Read the transcript.
3/6/2019 • 5 minutes
Seville, Spain
On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols takes us to an unlikely place where the Reformation took hold: Seville, Spain. Read the transcript.
2/27/2019 • 5 minutes
The 3 Foot Manuscript
On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols introduces us to A.T. Robertson and one of his monumental achievements: a 1500-page grammar of the Greek New Testament. Read the transcript.
2/20/2019 • 5 minutes
Trending in the 13th Century
People love to hear about the latest trends. But what was trending in the 1200s? On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols looks at the people, places, and events of this momentous century. Read the transcript.
2/13/2019 • 5 minutes
The Sun King
On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols introduces us to King Louis XIV of France and explains why he was called the Sun King. Read the transcript.
2/6/2019 • 5 minutes
Francis Schaeffer
On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols introduces us to Francis Schaeffer—the pastor, the missionary, and the political activist. Read the transcript.
1/30/2019 • 5 minutes
Iona
When Columba traveled from Ireland to Scotland, he brought the gospel with him. On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols introduces us to this missionary, scribe, and hymn writer. Read the transcript.
1/23/2019 • 5 minutes
5 Johns in the Colonies
Many “Johns” helped spread the gospel in colonial New England. On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols introduces us to John Eliot, John Davenport, John Tennent, John Brainerd, and John Wauwaumpequunnaunt. Read the transcript.
1/16/2019 • 5 minutes
Mrs. Spurgeon
When Susannah Thompson first heard Charles Spurgeon preach, she wasn’t that impressed. But eventually he won her over. On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols introduces us to Mrs. Spurgeon. Read the transcript.
1/9/2019 • 5 minutes
Top 5 Events in History
What do you think are the most significant events in history? On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols takes us through the emergence of Christendom, the rise of Islam, the Reformation, the Enlightenment, and more. Read the transcript.
1/2/2019 • 5 minutes
Theologians Who Love Christmas
Jesus Christ came into this world for the purpose of redemption. On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols explains why Charles Spurgeon, Dietrich Bonhoeffer, and R.C. Sproul loved Christmas. Read the transcript.
12/26/2018 • 5 minutes
Books of Hours
Medieval manuscripts were often highly ornate—decorated with jewels and gold leaf—and prayer books were no exception. On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols introduces us to the famous “books of hours.” Read the transcript.
12/19/2018 • 5 minutes
The 9 Heroes
Who are your heroes? On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols introduces us to nine larger-than-life figures and the medieval tapestries that celebrate them. Read the transcript.
12/12/2018 • 5 minutes
Charles Spurgeon, Part 2
Toward the end of his life, Charles Spurgeon found himself having to defend biblical truth against the onslaught of unbelief. On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History recorded live at Ligonier’s 2018 West Coast Conference, Drs. Stephen Nichols and Steven Lawson continue their discussion on Spurgeon’s life and legacy. Read the transcript.
12/5/2018 • 5 minutes
Charles Spurgeon, Part 1
Who was the “prince of preachers”? On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History recorded live at Ligonier’s 2018 West Coast Conference, Drs. Stephen Nichols and Steven Lawson look at the life and legacy of Charles Spurgeon. Read the transcript.
11/28/2018 • 5 minutes
The 400th Anniversary of Dort
Jacobus Arminius challenged the bedrock doctrines of the Reformation—but the Reformed churches pushed back. On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols interviews Dr. W. Robert Godfrey on the Synod of Dort and why we still celebrate its anniversary 400 years later. Read the transcript.
11/21/2018 • 5 minutes
The Synod of Dort
Where did the five points of Calvinism come from? On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols takes us back 400 years to the Synod of Dort. Read the transcript.
11/14/2018 • 5 minutes
Philip Schaff
On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols introduces us to Philip Schaff and explains why a library is named after him. Read the transcript.
11/7/2018 • 5 minutes
The Reformers and the Bible
On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols interviews Dr. Jonathan Gibson on the riches of studying Scripture in its original languages: Hebrew, Aramaic, and Greek. Read the transcript.
10/31/2018 • 5 minutes
John Williamson Nevin
What is “the anxious bench,” and why was John Williamson Nevin so critical of it? On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols looks at the life and legacy of this 19th-century theologian. Read the transcript.
10/24/2018 • 5 minutes
Church History in Stained Glass
Stained glass windows are not just beautiful works of art; they also teach us about our past. On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols looks at the windows inside Santee Chapel at Lancaster Theological Seminary. Read the transcript.
10/17/2018 • 5 minutes
Philadelphia Museum of Art Miscellany
On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols looks at a variety of paintings in the Philadelphia Museum of Art. Read the transcript.
10/10/2018 • 5 minutes
Constantine in Threads
On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols returns to the Philadelphia Museum of Art and walks us through a series of tapestries depicting Constantine’s life. Read the transcript.
10/3/2018 • 5 minutes
Sixth Century Scotland
The story of how the gospel came to Scotland is shrouded in mystery. On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Drs. Stephen Nichols and Sinclair Ferguson introduce us to two “monk-evangelists” who took the gospel from town to town. Read the transcript.
9/26/2018 • 5 minutes
A.D. with S.F.
We can learn a great deal from our Christian friends and family members. But we can also learn by studying the lives of the saints who came before us. On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols interviews Dr. Sinclair Ferguson on his book In the Year of Our Lord. Read the transcript.
9/19/2018 • 5 minutes
Medieval Art
On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols walks us through the Philadelphia Museum of Art and its collection of medieval paintings, sculptures, and manuscripts. Read the transcript.
9/12/2018 • 5 minutes
Primož Trubar
Who was the “Slovenian Martin Luther”? On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols takes us back to 1508 and introduces us to Primoz Trubar. Read the transcript.
9/5/2018 • 5 minutes
A Divine & Supernatural Light
The subject of awakening has a rich history in the American church. On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History recorded live at Ligonier’s 2018 National Conference, Dr. Stephen Nichols considers how Jonathan Edwards’ sermons laid the groundwork for revival. Read the transcript.
8/29/2018 • 5 minutes
Memoir & Remains of Robert Murray M'Cheyne
On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History recorded live at Ligonier’s 2018 National Conference, Dr. Stephen Nichols asks Dr. Sinclair Ferguson to share his favorite figure from Scottish church history. Read the transcript.
8/22/2018 • 5 minutes
Deserted Island Top 5: Kevin DeYoung
On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History recorded live at Ligonier’s 2018 National Conference, Dr. Stephen Nichols asks Dr. Kevin DeYoung to share what five books he would want on a deserted island. Read the transcript.
8/15/2018 • 5 minutes
Bonnie Banks and Communion Tokens
What is a “communion token”? On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols explains why church members in Scotland had to present these little metal coins to take the Lord’s Supper. Read the transcript.
8/8/2018 • 5 minutes
The Letters of John Newton
John Newton wrote hundreds of pastoral letters. On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols looks at Newton’s letters to his adopted daughter Betsy. Read the transcript.
8/1/2018 • 5 minutes
The Life of John Newton
Amazing Grace is perhaps one of the most famous hymns. On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols introduces us to its author: John Newton. Read the transcript.
7/25/2018 • 5 minutes
Henry VIII's Last Wife
Being the wife of King Henry VIII was no simple task. On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols introduces us to Catherine Parr, Henry’s sixth and final wife. Read the transcript.
7/18/2018 • 5 minutes
The Life of Bunyan
When we think of John Bunyan, we usually think of The Pilgrim’s Progress. But he actually wrote many books. On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols looks at the life of this tinkerer, pastor, and author. Read the transcript.
7/11/2018 • 5 minutes
The Writings of the Angelic Doctor
On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. James Dolezal joins Dr. Stephen Nichols in the studio to discuss the breadth and depth of Thomas Aquinas’ writings. Read the transcript.
7/4/2018 • 5 minutes
William Cowper
On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols introduces us to William Cowper, a man whose sensitive spirit and familiarity with suffering led him to create some of the most beautiful hymns. Read the transcript.
6/27/2018 • 5 minutes
The Venerable Bede
On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols introduces us to one of the first church historians: the Venerable Bede. Read the transcript.
6/20/2018 • 5 minutes
History Makers: Tim Keesee
Church history is being written today as the gospel advances in hard-to-reach places. On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Tim Keesee joins Dr. Stephen Nichols in the studio to discuss the 25th anniversary of Frontline Missions International. Read the transcript.
6/13/2018 • 5 minutes
The History of the Doctrine of God, Part 2
God is simple but not simplistic. On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. James Dolezal joins Dr. Stephen Nichols in the studio to discuss the simplicity of God. Read the transcript.
6/6/2018 • 5 minutes
The History of the Doctrine of God, Part 1
God is infinite, transcendent, and unfathomable. On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. James Dolezal joins Dr. Stephen Nichols in the studio to discuss the greatness of God.
5/30/2018 • 5 minutes
Augustus Caesar
On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols considers why early Christians graffitied a statue of Augustus Caesar.
5/23/2018 • 5 minutes
Adoniram Judson
On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols takes us from Calcutta to Burma as he chronicles the five journeys of Adoniram Judson, America’s pioneer Baptist missionary.
5/16/2018 • 5 minutes
Daniel Payne
During the years surrounding the Civil War, Daniel Payne devoted his life to educating African-American ministers. On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols takes us back to 1830 when Payne founded his first school.
5/9/2018 • 5 minutes
The Most Important Thing to the Reformers (Part 2)
Worship should be God-centered and Word-centered. On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols continues his discussion with Jonathan Gibson and Mark Earngey, coauthors of Reformation Worship.
5/2/2018 • 5 minutes
The Most Important Thing to the Reformers (Part 1)
What is the role of liturgy in worship? On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols is joined in the studio by Jonathan Gibson and Mark Earngey, coauthors of Reformation Worship.
4/25/2018 • 5 minutes
William Farel
On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols considers the life and ministry of William Farel, the man who brought the Reformation to Geneva.
4/18/2018 • 5 minutes
The Minister, a Book, and a Controversy
On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols takes us back to 1700 when an obscure book ignited a controversy in the Scottish church.
4/11/2018 • 5 minutes
Bonhoeffer In London
What is the only question a church should ask its pastor? Dr. Stephen Nichols considers Dietrich Bonhoeffer’s answer on today’s episode of 5 Minutes in Church History.
4/4/2018 • 5 minutes
Dietrich Bonhoeffer
On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols considers the life and work of Dietrich Bonhoeffer, a German theologian who was martyred as a direct order by Hitler himself.
3/28/2018 • 5 minutes
The 60 Pound Commentary
On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols tells us about a commentary not for the faint of heart—weighing 60 pounds and almost 12 inches thick.
3/21/2018 • 5 minutes
Tacitus
On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols introduces us to Tacitus, a first-century Roman historian and one of the first references to Christ outside of the New Testament.
3/14/2018 • 5 minutes
Francis Grimké
On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols considers the life of Francis Grimké, a former slave who became a faithful minister.
3/7/2018 • 5 minutes
The Moral Argument
What is the moral argument for the existence of God? On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols discusses Immanuel Kant’s apologetic.
2/28/2018 • 5 minutes
1812
On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols takes us back to 1812 and introduces us to the men who founded Princeton Theological Seminary.
2/21/2018 • 5 minutes
Macrina
Who was Macrina the Younger? On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols returns to the early church to introduce this significant woman of the faith.
2/14/2018 • 5 minutes
Peter Lombard
On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols introduces us to the Medieval theologian Peter Lombard and his magnum opus, the Four Books of Sentences.
2/7/2018 • 5 minutes
The Abbey of St. Victor, Paris
The Abbey of St. Victor was frequented by a number of very famous medieval people. On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols introduces us to three fascinating people who spent time there.
1/31/2018 • 5 minutes
The Tyger and the Lamb
On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols introduces the early Romantic poet William Blake and two of his significant poems.
1/24/2018 • 5 minutes
5 Responses to Modernism
In this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols discusses five ways the church has responded to modernism.
1/17/2018 • 5 minutes
Just War
How should Christians think about war? On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols discusses how Augustine helps us to approach this question from a Christian perspective.
1/10/2018 • 5 minutes
Esther Edwards Burr
On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols introduces Esther Edwards Burr: daughter of Jonathan Edwards, wife to a Princeton President, and mother of a US vice president.
1/3/2018 • 5 minutes
Tyndale's Only Surviving Letter
Only one of William Tyndale's letters has survived throughout the years. On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols discusses what Tyndale wrote when he was a prisoner at Vilvoorde Castle in Belgium.
12/27/2017 • 5 minutes
Remembering R.C. Sproul
On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols reflects on the life and ministry of Dr. R.C. Sproul.
12/20/2017 • 5 minutes
Johann Sebastian Bach: JJ
On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols discusses the Lutheran composer behind the initials JSB, JJ, and SDG.
12/13/2017 • 5 minutes
On the Church
There are 37 million local congregations in the world. Every one has a history. On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols looks at some of the interesting histories of local churches.
12/6/2017 • 5 minutes
Trending in the 14th Century
If there had been a social media buzz in the 14th century, what would have been “trending”? In this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols looks at the big events of this important century.
11/29/2017 • 5 minutes
Shakespeare's Bible
The Bible is all through Shakespeare. On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols looks at Shakespeare’s use of the Bible, the versions he used, and the books he quoted most often.
11/22/2017 • 5 minutes
Deserted Island Top 5: Burk Parsons
In this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols is joined by Dr. Burk Parsons. He asks Dr. Parsons to share what five books he would want if on a deserted island.
11/15/2017 • 5 minutes
The Baptist Catechism of 1693
In this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols discusses the mysterious origin and the doctrinal content of the Baptist Confession of 1693.
11/8/2017 • 5 minutes
The Next Day
In this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols takes time to reflect on the legacy of the Reformation and how it shapes the task of the church today.
11/1/2017 • 5 minutes
The 95 Theses, Part 2
500 years ago today, it all started at the doors of the Castle Church in Wittenberg. Recorded on location, Dr. Stephen Nichols concludes his discussion on the significance of the Martin Luther's Ninety-Five Theses.
10/31/2017 • 5 minutes
The 95 Theses, Part 1
On today's episode, recorded on location at the Castle Church in Wittenberg, Germany, Dr. Stephen Nichols discusses Martin Luther's Theses against indulgences.
10/30/2017 • 5 minutes
Repent
The Ninety-Five Theses were a call to debate. Recorded on location in Wittenberg, Dr. Stephen Nichols discusses Martin Luther's first thesis.
10/29/2017 • 5 minutes
R.C. Sproul & Luther
On this special Reformation month episode, Dr. Stephen Nichols is joined by Dr. R.C. Sproul. Listen as they discuss Martin Luther and anticipate the 500th anniversary of the Reformation.
10/28/2017 • 5 minutes
Legacy of Luther
There’s more to Martin Luther’s legacy than the act of posting the Ninety-Five Theses. Recorded on location in Germany, Dr. Stephen Nichols examines five points of Luther’s legacy.
10/27/2017 • 5 minutes
February 18, 1546
Martin Luther was born in Eisleben, and it was there that he died on February 18th, 1546. Recorded on location, Dr. Stephen Nichols considers how Luther clung to the Bible as his comfort in his death.
10/26/2017 • 5 minutes
Last 4 Sermons
Martin Luther preached his final four sermons at St. Andreas Church in Eisleben. Recorded on location, listen as Dr. Stephen Nichols discusses the history and significance of this church.
10/25/2017 • 5 minutes
January 1546
What would Martin Luther have wanted us to know? Recorded on location in Wittenberg, Dr. Stephen Nichols discusses what we can learn from Luther’s final month.
10/24/2017 • 5 minutes
Martin & Katie
One of the most important people in Martin Luther’s life was his wife, Katie. Recorded on location at the Luther’s Wittenberg home, Dr. Stephen Nichols discusses how a former monk and a former nun helped redeem marriage.
10/23/2017 • 5 minutes
Luther & the Bible
When it comes to the Reformation, one of the most important topics to discuss is Martin Luther on Scripture. Recorded on location in Germany, Dr. Stephen Nichols looks at Luther’s teaching on Scripture and his three steps for reading and studying the Bible.
10/22/2017 • 5 minutes
Luther on Psalm 118
On today’s episode, Dr. Stephen Nichols is joined by Dr. W. Robert Godfrey on location in Wittenberg, Germany. Together they discuss Martin Luther’s commentary on what he called "his own beloved psalm."
10/21/2017 • 5 minutes
The Bondage of the Will
Martin Luther considered his treatise The Bondage of the Will “the centerpiece of the Reformation.” Recorded on location in Wittenberg, Dr. Stephen Nichols discusses Luther’s magnum opus.
10/20/2017 • 5 minutes
Table Talk
Many conversations took place around Martin Luther's dinner table. These were later collected as a unique piece of literature known as Table Talk. Recorded on location in Wittenberg, Dr. Stephen Nichols discusses how these dinner table conversations give us insight into Luther as a theologian of the people.
10/19/2017 • 5 minutes
Hymns
Martin Luther believed that the church not only needed to reform its theology, it also needed to reform its music. Recorded on location in Germany, Dr. Stephen Nichols introduces the hymns of Luther.
10/18/2017 • 5 minutes
Catechism
At the end of his life, Martin Luther said, “You can burn all of my books except for two, The Bondage of the Will and the Small Catechism.” Recorded on location in Germany, listen as Dr. Stephen Nichols discusses Luther's Small Catechism.
10/17/2017 • 5 minutes, 1 second
3 Treatises
By 1520, Martin Luther wanted to reform the nation, the church, and the individual. Recorded on location, listen as Dr. Stephen Nichols explains how three treatises address each of these groups.
10/16/2017 • 5 minutes
2 Kinds of Righteousness
Martin Luther preached at St. Mary’s Church in Wittenberg, Germany, from 1512 to 1546. Recorded on location, listen as Dr. Stephen Nichols discusses Luther's significant sermon on "Two Kinds of Righteousness.”
10/15/2017 • 5 minutes
Luther & Germany Today
Luther & Germany Today
10/14/2017 • 5 minutes
Melanchthon
A scholar, theologian, and friend of the Reformation, Philip Melanchthon went almost anywhere Martin Luther went. Dr. Stephen Nichols discusses Master Philip’s life and works on location in Wittenberg.
10/13/2017 • 5 minutes
The Wittenberg 5
Luther had several friends from both the university and monastery that helped his reformation efforts. Recorded on location in Germany, Dr. Stephen Nichols introduces these important colleagues.
10/12/2017 • 5 minutes
Junker Jorg
To protect himself from the possibility of arrest or murder, Martin Luther disguised himself as Junker Jorg. Listen as Dr. Stephen Nichols tells the story on location at the Wartburg Castle.
10/11/2017 • 5 minutes
Worms
Recorded on location in Germany, Dr. Stephen Nichols introduces us to the four figures at the four corners of the Reformation monument in Worms.
10/10/2017 • 5 minutes
Heidelberg
We know about the Ninety-Five Theses, but what about the Twenty-Eight Theses? Recorded on location in Germany, Dr. Stephen Nichols introduces us to this less familiar text of the Reformation.
10/9/2017 • 5 minutes
A Tale of 2 Churches
Two churches were very important to the life of Martin Luther. Recorded on location in Wittenberg, Dr. Stephen Nichols explains what’s important is not just the buildings themselves but what happened inside these buildings.
10/8/2017 • 5 minutes
2 Princes
Two politicians from Saxony played significant roles in the life of Martin Luther. Recorded on location in Germany, Dr. Stephen Nichols describes the influence of Frederick the Wise and John the Steadfast on Martin Luther.
10/7/2017 • 5 minutes
Luther & Bach
Eisenach was the city in which J.S. Bach was born. Recorded on location, Dr. Stephen Nichols discusses the significance of this city, not only for Bach, but also for Martin Luther and the Reformation.
10/6/2017 • 5 minutes
The Gates of Paradise
Martin Luther described his conversion as feeling "altogether born again” and that “the very gates of paradise opened up before [him].” Recorded on location in Wittenberg, Dr. Stephen Nichols discusses this crucial event in Luther's life.
10/5/2017 • 5 minutes
The Goose & the Swan
“Today you burn a goose, but in one hundred years a swan will arise which you will prove unable to boil or roast.” Recorded on location at the burial place of Johannes Zacharias, the bishop of Erfurt, Dr. Stephen Nichols tells the story of the Goose and the Swan.
10/4/2017 • 5 minutes
5 Things at Erfurt
Recorded on location in Erfurt, Dr. Stephen Nichols examines five important facts about Luther and the city where he joined the Augustinian order.
10/3/2017 • 5 minutes
November 10, 1483
Martin Luther was born on November 10, 1483. Recorded on location in Eisleben, Dr. Stephen Nichols takes us back to Luther's childhood.
10/2/2017 • 5 minutes
31 Days with Luther
October 2017 marks the five-hundredth anniversary of the Protestant Reformation, and the beginning of our 31 day celebration. In this first Reformation month episode recorded on location throughout Europe, Dr. Stephen Nichols introduces the five major divisions of Martin Luther's life.
10/1/2017 • 5 minutes
The Adventurous Life of John Knox
On today's episode, Dr. Stephen Nichols looks at the adventurous life of the bodyguard turned Socttish Reformer, John Knox.
9/27/2017 • 5 minutes
Useful for These Times
On today's episode, Dr. Stephen Nichols explains why in 1668 Thomas Watson thought it timely to write about repentance.
9/20/2017 • 5 minutes
The Reformation in Spain
We're all familiar with the Reformation in Germany. But what about the Reformation in Spain? On today's episode, Dr. Stephen Nichols looks at two Spanish Reformers.
9/13/2017 • 5 minutes
29 Years of Age (Part 2)
On today's episode, Dr. Stephen Nichols continues his examination of the life of Robert Murray M’Cheyne and all he accomplished in his brief 29 years.
9/6/2017 • 5 minutes
29 Years of Age (Part 1)
On today's episode of 5 Minutes of Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols introduces Robert Murray M’Cheyne, a pastor who lived only 29 years.
8/30/2017 • 5 minutes
A Little Book
On today's episode, Dr. Stephen Nichols is joined by Dr. Burk Parsons to discuss John Calvin's "A Little Book on the Christian Life."
8/23/2017 • 5 minutes
B.B. & Annie
B.B. Warfield's wife required constant attention and care during her married life. On today's episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols recounts the tragic love story of B.B. and his wife Annie.
8/16/2017 • 5 minutes
Luther on Vocation: Michael Horton
On today's episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols is joined by Dr. Michael Horton to discuss Martin Luther's recovery of the doctrine of vocation.
8/9/2017 • 5 minutes
William Ellery Channing
On today's episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols introduces the founder of Unitarianism, William Ellery Channing.
8/2/2017 • 5 minutes
What Happened to the Puritans
On today’s episode, Dr. Stephen Nichols examines what really happened to the New England Puritans.
7/26/2017 • 5 minutes
On the Canon
On this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols is joined by Dr. Michael Kruger to discuss how the canon was recognized in the early church.
7/19/2017 • 5 minutes
Calvin & Missions
On today’s episode of 5 Minutes in Church History , Dr. Stephen Nichols is joined by Dr. Michael Haykin to discuss John Calvin’s view of missions.
7/12/2017 • 5 minutes
8 Women You Should Know
On today's episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols sits down with Dr. Michael Haykin to discuss 8 women you should know.
7/5/2017 • 5 minutes
The 100th Anniversary
It's the 100th anniversary of 1917. In this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols explains the significant events of that year that cast their shadow over the twentieth century.
6/28/2017 • 5 minutes
The $14 MIllion Book
A $14 million book? On today's episode of 5 MInutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols tells the story of Europe’s oldest intact book.
6/21/2017 • 5 minutes
Deserted Island Top 5: Michael Horton
In this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols is joined by Dr. Michael Horton. He asks Dr. Horton to share what five books he would want if on a deserted island.
6/14/2017 • 5 minutes
The Welsh Revivals
Why do the Welsh sometimes sing hymns at football matches? In this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols tells us of Evan Roberts and the Welsh Revival.
6/7/2017 • 5 minutes
What Luther Expects
What Luther Expects
5/31/2017 • 5 minutes
Look, There's the Kingdom
Leo Tolstoy had an interesting but very false idea about the kingdom of God. In this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols discusses the idea that would gain a lot of traction in the twentieth century.
5/24/2017 • 5 minutes
Dear Khan,
In this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols tells us about the time the pope and the Great Khan were unsuccessful pen pals.
5/17/2017 • 5 minutes
Engraver of the Reformation
In this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols tells us about Albrecht Dürer, the engraver who used his gifts to advance the message of the Reformation.
5/10/2017 • 5 minutes
The 200th Episode with a Special Guest
In this 200th-anniversery episode, Dr. Stephen Nichols is joined by a special guest to celebrate 5 Minutes in Church History.
5/3/2017 • 5 minutes
Philip Melanchthon
Who was "Master Philip" and what did he contribute to the Reformation? In this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols tells us about the life of Philip Melanchthon.
4/26/2017 • 5 minutes
Joan of Arc
In this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols tells the intriguing story of the life and death of Joan of Arc.
4/19/2017 • 5 minutes
Cruce, Libro, et Atro
If there were bumper stickers in the Middle Ages, the phrase "Cruce, libro, et atro" may well have been a popular one. In this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols tells us about this monastic ideal.
4/12/2017 • 5 minutes
17th Century Theological Poets
What did Anne Bradstreet, Edward Taylor, John Milton, Ben Johnson, and George Herbert have in common? In this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols introduces us to several 17th century poets.
4/5/2017 • 5 minutes
John Knox's Bible
Why should we care about the discovery of John Knox's Bible? In this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols explains.
3/29/2017 • 5 minutes
The Ghent Alterpiece
What is a "triptych" and "polyptych"? In this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Stephen Nichols takes us to the Ghent Altarpiece.
3/22/2017 • 5 minutes
Marcion
Who did Polycarp call "firstborn son of the devil”? In this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Stephen Nichols tells the tale of Marcion and Polycarp's first meeting.
3/15/2017 • 5 minutes
Three British Martyrs: Chaplain Bradford
In this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Stephen Nichols tells the story of the dishonest clerk who became a martyr.
3/8/2017 • 5 minutes
Three British Martyrs: Bishop Hooper
In this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Stephen Nichols introduces us to the Cambridge-educated bishop who was burned at the stake in 1555.
3/1/2017 • 5 minutes
Three British Martyrs: Dr. Taylor
He wasn’t a celebrity, but he was a martyr of the faith. In this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols begins a 3-part series by telling the story of Dr. Rowland Taylor.
2/22/2017 • 5 minutes
Rio 1558
Who were the 16th-century Calvinist missionaries of Brazil? In this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Stephen Nichols tells the fascinating history of the Guanabara Confession of Faith.
2/15/2017 • 5 minutes
The Divinity School Address
What was wrong with Ralph Waldo Emerson's Christology? In this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols explores the legacy of Emerson.
2/8/2017 • 5 minutes
Feathery Christians
What is a "feathery Christian"? In this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols explains the significance of the great Puritan pastor Thomas Watson.
2/1/2017 • 5 minutes
The Ten Theses of Berne
What were the Ten Theses of Berne? In this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols tells the fascinating story of the Reformation's effect on the city of Berne.
1/25/2017 • 5 minutes
Augustine's Handbook for Life
Did you know that Augustine wrote a catechism for a Roman tribune living in Africa? In this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols discusses Augustine's 420 A.D. book, the Enchiridion.
1/18/2017 • 5 minutes
As He Spoke from the Pulpit
In this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols discusses the lesser known pastoral side of John Calvin.
1/11/2017 • 5 minutes
The Enduring Problem
How does Christianity relate to culture? In this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols reviews H. Richard Niebuhr's five models for understanding this relationship.
1/4/2017 • 5 minutes
Bishop Ussher
In this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols introduces us to the Irish Bishop who helped continue the Reformation in the 17th century.
12/28/2016 • 5 minutes
Forgotten Founder: Cotton Mather
In this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols examines the Puritan pastor who is also one America’s forgotten founding fathers.
12/21/2016 • 5 minutes
500th Anniversary of 1516
Next year we celebrate the 500th anniversary of Martin Luther posting his Ninety-Five Theses. In this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols considers the 500th anniversary of 1516.
12/14/2016 • 5 minutes
The Song of Roland
The medieval era was the era of epic poems. In this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols introduces us to The Song of Roland.
12/7/2016 • 5 minutes
Thesis #37
In this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols examines the 37th of Martin Luther's 95 Theses.
11/30/2016 • 5 minutes
Augustine on the Psalms
In this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols introduces us to Augustine's "Explanations of the Psalms," a long book that took him more than 20 years to complete.
11/23/2016 • 5 minutes
Cane Ridge, KY
Cane Ridge, Kentucky, was the site of one of the most important events in American religious history. In this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols takes us back to 1801.
11/16/2016 • 5 minutes
Machen on 11/11
Friday is Veterans Day. In this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols takes us back to World War I and J. Gresham Machen's work with the YMCA.
11/9/2016 • 5 minutes
Fort Caroline
Where was the first Thanksgiving on American soil? In this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols takes us to Fort Caroline.
11/2/2016 • 5 minutes
What Is Reformation Day?
What is Reformation Day? In this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols explains the significance of October 31, 1517 and why Christians celebrate Reformation Day.
10/26/2016 • 5 minutes
The Three Cappadocians
In this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols takes us back to the early church and introduces us to the Three Cappadocians.
10/19/2016 • 5 minutes
Seeing Is Believing with Tim Challies
In this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols is joined by Tim Challies to discuss his book Visual Theology.
10/12/2016 • 5 minutes
Happy Birthday, Rev. Edwards
October 5 is Jonathan Edwards’ birthday. In this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, in honor of what would have been Edwards' 313rd birthday, Dr. Stephen Nichols revisits this man and what life was like in the 1700s.
10/5/2016 • 5 minutes
Deserted Island Top 5: Tim Challies
In this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols is joined by Tim Challies. He asks Tim to share what five books he would want if on a deserted island.
9/28/2016 • 5 minutes
Calvin on Civil Government
John Calvin ends the Institutes of the Christian Religion with a discussion of civil government. In this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols considers what Calvin wrote.
9/21/2016 • 5 minutes
Clement, Again
In this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols returns to Clement in the first century to hear what he has to say about the church as the body of Christ.
9/14/2016 • 5 minutes
Clement
In this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols takes us back to the first century to introduce us to a man named Clement and his affirmation of the doctrine of justification by faith.
9/7/2016 • 5 minutes
The Hungarian Reformed Bishops (with a special guest)
In this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols is joined by Dr. W. Robert Godfrey to share what Dr. Godfrey calls one of the world's "great neglected secrets."
8/31/2016 • 5 minutes
Deserted Island Top 5: Miguel Núñez, Part 2
In this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols is joined again by Dr. Miguel Núñez to finish discussing what five books he would want if on a deserted island.
8/24/2016 • 5 minutes
Deserted Island Top 5: Miguel Núñez, Part 1
In this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols is joined by Dr. Miguel Núñez. He asks Dr. Núñez to share what five books he would want if on a deserted island.
8/17/2016 • 5 minutes
Trending in the 12th Century
The culture is concerned with what's trending today. In this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols introduces us to what was trending in the 12th century.
8/10/2016 • 5 minutes
Machen & the Meaning of Missions
In this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols tells how Dr. J. Gresham Machen responded to the 1932 report, "Re-Thinking Missions."
8/3/2016 • 5 minutes
Trending in the 10th Century
The culture is concerned with what's trending today. In this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols introduces us to what was trending in the 10th century.
7/27/2016 • 5 minutes
Ambrose of Milan
In this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols introduces us to Ambrose of Milan and the role he played in the life of Augustine.
7/20/2016 • 5 minutes
History Makers: Miguel Núñez
In this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols is joined by Pastor Miguel Núñez, a pastor and ministry leader in Latin America.
7/13/2016 • 5 minutes
The Doctor: D. Martyn Lloyd-Jones, Part 2
In this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols concludes his brief introduction to the life and legacy of Dr. D. Martyn Lloyd-Jones.
7/6/2016 • 5 minutes
The Doctor: D. Martyn Lloyd-Jones, Part 1
The Doctor: D. Martyn Lloyd-Jones, Part 1
6/29/2016 • 5 minutes
The Baseball Evangelist
Billy Sunday was born William Ashley Sunday Jr. In this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols introduces us to the "baseball evangelist."
6/22/2016 • 5 minutes
67 Walloons
Who were the sixty-seven Walloons? In this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols tells the story of Wallonia and its Reformation confession.
6/15/2016 • 5 minutes
The Evangel, a Yacht
In this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols shares the story of a yacht named The Evangel.
6/8/2016 • 5 minutes
My 5 Favorite Baptists: Mark Dever
In this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols is again joined by Dr. Mark Dever. This week, Dr. Dever shares his 5 favorite Baptists.
6/1/2016 • 5 minutes
Deserted Island Top 5: Mark Dever
In this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols is joined by Dr. Mark Dever. He asks Dr. Dever to share what five books he would want if on a deserted island.
5/25/2016 • 5 minutes
How Samuel Rutherford Changed My Life
In this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols is again joined by Dr. Guy Richard. Together, they travel back to the 17th century and introduce us to Samuel Rutherford.
5/18/2016 • 5 minutes
Deserted Island Top 5: Guy Richard
In this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols is joined by Dr. Guy Richard. He asks Dr. Richard to share what five books he would want if on a deserted island.
5/11/2016 • 5 minutes
According to Webster's
In this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols introduces us to Noah Webster, the man behind the American dictionary.
5/4/2016 • 5 minutes
Leipzig
In this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols takes us to the German city of Leipzig and shares Martin Luther's influence there.
4/27/2016 • 5 minutes
First Century Moments
What was so significant about the first century? In this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols is joined by Dr. Guy Waters to discuss why the first century was so important.
4/20/2016 • 5 minutes
History Makers: Lordship Controversy with John MacArthur
In this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols is joined by Dr. John MacArthur to discuss the Lordship Salvation Controversy and MacArthur's book The Gospel According to Jesus.
4/13/2016 • 5 minutes
Deborah Hatheway
What advice would Jonathan Edwards give a young Christian? In this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols shares a portion of a letter Edwards wrote to a young lady named Deborah.
4/6/2016 • 5 minutes
Phoebe Bartlett
What does conversion look like? In this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols introduces us to the fascinating story of four-year-old Phoebe Bartlett.
3/30/2016 • 5 minutes
Bishop Latimer
What would be your final words if you were condemned to death for your faith? In this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols teaches us about the life and martyrdom of Bishop Hugh Latimer.
3/23/2016 • 5 minutes
Martyrs' Memorial, Oxford
As Tertullian wrote, "The blood of the martyrs is the seed of the church." In this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols takes us to the Martyr's Memorial in Oxford, England, which was erected to commemorate the martyrs of the English Reformation.
3/16/2016 • 5 minutes
An Eight-Syllable Heresy
Apollinarianism is a very long name for an early Christian heresy. In this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols explains what it is and how the early church dealt with it.
3/9/2016 • 5 minutes
John Colet
There were many forerunners of the Reformation of the sixteenth century. In this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols introduces us to John Colet.
3/2/2016 • 5 minutes
Boston's Fourfold State
Thomas Boston wrote the book "The Fourfold State." In this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols briefly explains the four states of man: the state of innocence, the state of nature, the state of grace, and the state of eternity.
2/24/2016 • 5 minutes
Martin Bucer
Martin Luther wasn't the only Augustianian monk involved in the Reformation. In this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols discusses the life and ministry of Martin Bucer.
2/17/2016 • 5 minutes
Communion Controversy
The Lord’s Supper has been the subject of much controversy over the centuries. In this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols surveys some of these controversies.
2/10/2016 • 5 minutes
Know a Good River?
In this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols takes us along the Rhine River to tell the history of the Reformation.
2/3/2016 • 5 minutes
Deserted Island Top 5: John MacArthur
In this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols is joined by Dr. John MacArthur. He asks Dr. MacArthur to share what five books he would want if on a deserted island.
1/27/2016 • 5 minutes
The Council of Trent
What does the Roman Catholic Church believe about Scripture, justification, and imputation? In this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols takes us to the Council of Trent.
1/20/2016 • 5 minutes
Apostle to the Indians
In this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols goes back and tells the story of John Eliot, the "apostle to the Indians."
1/13/2016 • 5 minutes
Three Bible Firsts
When was the first Bible printed in America? In this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols explains why you could give any of 3 answers and still be right.
1/6/2016 • 5 minutes
Calvin on Slippery Forgetfulness
Do you have a slippery forgetfulness of God? In this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols turns to John Calvin's Institutes as he considers this question.
12/30/2015 • 5 minutes
Twentieth Century Martyrs
In this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols introduces us to a modern-day martyr as he tells the story of Wang Zhiming.
12/23/2015 • 5 minutes
History Makers: The New Perspective on Paul with Dr. Guy Waters
Is the New Perspective on Paul really all that new? In this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols is joined by Dr. Guy Waters to discuss this crucial departure from the orthodox understanding of the gospel.
12/16/2015 • 5 minutes
John Murray
In this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols introduces us to John Murray and several of his books.
12/9/2015 • 5 minutes
The Poet of Paradise
What must it have been like for Adam and Eve after the fall? In this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols introduces us to the life and work of John Milton, the British poet who penned "Paradise Lost" and "Paradise Regained."
12/2/2015 • 5 minutes
Blues Man? Preacher?
The "Father of the Delta Blues" wanted above all to be a preacher. In this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols introduces us to Charley Patton.
11/25/2015 • 5 minutes
The Thirty Years' War
Who were the Huguenots? In this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols introduces us to these French Protestants as he provides an overview of the Thirty Years' War.
11/18/2015 • 5 minutes
Mrs. Luther
Who was Martin Luther's wife? What was so significant about their marriage? In this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols introduces us to Katharina von Bora.
11/11/2015 • 5 minutes
Top 5 of the 95: Take Two
Last week, we heard about Martin Luther's 95 Theses. In this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols discusses his top 5 of the 95 theses.
11/4/2015 • 5 minutes
What Is Reformation Day?
What is Reformation Day? In this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols explains the significance of October 31, 1517 and why Christians celebrate Reformation Day.
10/28/2015 • 5 minutes
B.B.'s Book Reviews
B.B. Warfield loved books. And he wrote many book reviews. In this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols gives us a glimpse into one of those reviews.
10/21/2015 • 5 minutes
March 28, 1754
What doctrine did Jonathan Edwards preach on March 28, 1754? In this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols takes us back to the sermon Edwards preached at the installation service of Edward Billing.
10/14/2015 • 5 minutes
Luke the Historian
In this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols is joined by Dr. Guy Waters to introduce us to Luke the historian.
10/7/2015 • 5 minutes
Fanny Crosby
Fanny Crosby wrote more than 9,000 hymns. In this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols tells her story.
9/30/2015 • 5 minutes
Caesarea Maritima
The Christian faith is grounded in history. In this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols takes us to Caesarea Maritima and its connection with biblical history.
9/23/2015 • 5 minutes, 1 second
Jerome
Who was Jerome and why was he significant? In this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols introduces us to the translator of the Latin Vulgate.
9/16/2015 • 5 minutes, 1 second
Stockbridge Statements of Faith
On June 22, 1750, Jonathan Edwards was dismissed from his church. In this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols tells the fascinating story of what happened next.
9/9/2015 • 5 minutes, 1 second
The Sermon at the Treaty
In this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols recounts the time Jonathan Edwards preached the gospel to some Mohawk tribesmen at the signing of a treaty.
9/2/2015 • 5 minutes, 1 second
Robinson Crusoe's Conversion
Have you read Robinson Crusoe? In this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols tells us the fascinating tale of Crusoe's conversion.
8/26/2015 • 5 minutes, 1 second
The Catacombs
Under the city of Rome lies a vast system of catacombs. In this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols takes us to these catacombs and explains how they bear witness to the lives and beliefs of early Christians.
8/19/2015 • 5 minutes, 1 second
Pliny the Younger
How did the Roman empire view Christianity? In this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols introduces us to Pliny the Younger and his persecution of the church.
8/12/2015 • 5 minutes, 1 second
With a Name like That
In this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols introduces us to the Muratorian fragment and how it revealed some of the reasoning that went into the church’s process of recognizing the canon.
5/27/2015 • 5 minutes
Calvin on Prayer
In this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols discusses John Calvin's "5 rules for praying right."
5/20/2015 • 5 minutes
Little Wolf's Bible
In this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols tells the story of "Little Wolf's Bible" and the contested legacy of an early church figure named Wulfila.
5/13/2015 • 5 minutes
The First Reformation Confession
In this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols takes us back to 1527 and the first confession written during the Reformation.
5/6/2015 • 5 minutes
Borden of Yale
In this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols shares the story and legacy of William Whiting Borden.
4/29/2015 • 5 minutes
Canterbury
In this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols explores the history of the English city of Canterbury.
4/22/2015 • 5 minutes
The Pastor in the River
In this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols tells the story of how Thomas Reid earned the title, "The Pastor in the River."
4/15/2015 • 5 minutes
Here's to the Middle Stanzas
In this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols reminds us of some of the great "middle stanzas" from church hymnody.
4/8/2015 • 5 minutes
On & Off the Track: Eric Liddell
In this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols introduces us to the Olympic star Eric Liddell and his role as a missionary in China.
4/1/2015 • 5 minutes
Forgotten Founding Father: Francis Makemie
In this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols introduces us to Francis Makemie and his work in the founding of American Presbyterianism.
3/25/2015 • 5 minutes
The Edwardian Homilies
In this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols introduces us to the Edwardian Homilies—a collection of sermons from 1547 that served to provide a clear and concise introduction to the art for preaching.
3/18/2015 • 5 minutes
The Stewart Brothers & Their Book
In this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols continues his look at Christian philanthropy. He introduces us to two brothers, Lyman and Milton Stewart, and tells the story of their stand against liberalism.
3/11/2015 • 5 minutes
Wanamaker's Hymnal
In this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols introduces us to John Wanamaker, his department store, his organ, and his hymnal.
3/4/2015 • 5 minutes
Phillis Wheatley
In this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols introduces us to the poetry of Phillis Wheatley, the first African-American woman to be published.
2/25/2015 • 5 minutes, 1 second
Medical Missionary to Scotland
In this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols introduces us to Paul Crawar, a medical missionary to Scotland, and tells the story of his eventual martyrdom.
2/18/2015 • 5 minutes, 1 second
A Fiery Preacher on a Fiery Preacher
In this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols is joined by Dr. Steven Lawson to discuss the fiery preacher John Knox.
2/11/2015 • 5 minutes, 1 second
Deserted Island Top 5: Steven Lawson
In this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols is joined by Dr. Steven Lawson. He asks Dr. Lawson to share what five books he would want if on a deserted island.
2/4/2015 • 5 minutes, 1 second
The PCA: Happy Birthday!
In this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols is joined by Dr. Sean Lucas to discuss the birth and growth of the Presbyterian Church in America.
1/28/2015 • 5 minutes
Deserted Island Top 5: Sean Lucas
In this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols is joined by Dr. Sean Lucas. He asks Dr. Lucas to share what five books he would want if on a deserted island.
1/21/2015 • 5 minutes
St. Pierre's Cathedral
In this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols takes us to St. Pierre's Cathedral in Geneva, Switzerland, the cathedral where John Calvin served as pastor in the 16th century.
1/14/2015 • 5 minutes
St. John Lateran Church
In this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols takes us to the St. John Lateran church in Rome and introduces us to several of the objects there and its connection to Martin Luther.
1/7/2015 • 5 minutes
James Joule
In this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols introduces us to James Joule, the scientist that demonstrated the validity of the First Law of Thermodynamics.
12/31/2014 • 5 minutes
Herman Bavinck
In this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols introduces us to the Dutch theologian Herman Bavinck.
12/24/2014 • 5 minutes
Augustine on Friendship
In this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols considers Augustine and his "theology of friendship."
12/17/2014 • 5 minutes
Charles Hodge & His Book
In this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols introduces us to Charles Hodge and the story of his 3 volume Systematic Theology.
12/10/2014 • 5 minutes
Newburyport, Mass.
In this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols takes us to First Presbyterian Church in Newburyport, Mass., a church founded during the First Great Awakening.
12/3/2014 • 5 minutes
The Bethel Confession
In this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols continues his stay in Germany by introducing us to The Bethel Confession of 1933.
11/26/2014 • 5 minutes
The Barmen Declaration
In this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols takes us to Germany in the year 1934 and introduces us to The Barmen Declaration.
11/19/2014 • 5 minutes
The Heidelberg Theses with Carl Trueman
In this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols is joined by Dr. Carl Trueman to discuss Martin Luther's crucial text The Heidelberg Theses.
11/12/2014 • 5 minutes
Bride of the Reformation
In this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols continues his celebration of Reformation Day by introducing us to Wibrandis Rosenblatt, the "bride of the Reformation."
11/5/2014 • 5 minutes
Happy Reformation Day!
In this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols is joined by Dr. R.C. Sproul to celebrate Reformation Day.
10/29/2014 • 5 minutes
Who Was Pelagius?
In this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols introduces us to an early church figure known as Pelagius and his teaching on man's morality.
10/22/2014 • 5 minutes
Deserted Island Top 5: Carl Trueman
In this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols is joined by Dr. Carl Trueman. He asks Dr. Trueman to share what five books he would want if on a deserted island.
10/15/2014 • 5 minutes
Beowulf
In this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols explains the important truth contained in the famous Old English poem Beowulf.
10/8/2014 • 5 minutes
The City of God
In this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols introduces us to Augustine's classic work, The City of God.
10/1/2014 • 5 minutes
History Makers: R.C. Sproul
In this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols speaks with Dr. R.C. Sproul to discuss his significant involvement in the development of the Chicago Statement on Biblical Inerrancy.
9/24/2014 • 5 minutes
The Chicago Statement
In this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols introduces us to the Chicago Statement on Biblical Inerrancy and explains the significance of this landmark treatise on the doctrine of Scripture.
9/17/2014 • 5 minutes
Raphael: Stanza Della Segnatura
In this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols introduces us to Raphael and his painting "Stanza Della Segnatura."
9/10/2014 • 5 minutes
Calvin's Sermons on Job: Derek Thomas
In this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols is joined by Dr. Derek Thomas to discuss John Calvin's 159-part sermon series on the book of Job.
9/3/2014 • 5 minutes
Deserted Island Top 5: Derek Thomas
In this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols is joined by Dr. Derek Thomas. He asks Dr. Thomas to share what five books he would want if on a deserted island.
8/27/2014 • 5 minutes
Read Any Good Books Lately?
In this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols reminds us of the importance of reading books.
8/20/2014 • 5 minutes
Anniversary Week: 1923
In this final anniversary week episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols takes us to 1923 when the Fundamentalist-Modernist Controversy came to a head and J. Gresham Machen published his classic text, "Christianity and Liberalism."
8/15/2014 • 5 minutes
Anniversary Week: 1740
In this special anniversary week episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols highlights a sermon by Jonathan Edwards as he takes us to the Great Awakening in 1740.
8/14/2014 • 5 minutes
Anniversary Week: 1517
In this special anniversary week episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols takes us to the moment that began the Protestant Reformation, October 31, 1517.
8/13/2014 • 5 minutes
Anniversary Week: 1245
In this special anniversary week episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols looks to the year 1245 as he shares another of his top 5 favorite moments in church history.
8/12/2014 • 5 minutes
Anniversary Week: 325
In this special anniversary week episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols takes us to 325 and begins a week long series on his top 5 favorite moments in church history.
8/11/2014 • 5 minutes
Wilberforce
In this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols introduces us to William Wilberforce and tells the story of his conversion to Christ.
8/6/2014 • 5 minutes
A Preface
In this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols reminds us of the importance of the "old books" as he discusses C.S. Lewis' preface to Athanasius’ On The Incarnation.
7/30/2014 • 5 minutes
Deserted Island Top 5: Michael Reeves
In this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols is joined by Dr. Michael Reeves. He asks Dr. Reeves to share what five books he would want if on a deserted island.
7/23/2014 • 5 minutes
The Fourteenthers
In this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols explains the debate throughout church history regarding when Easter should be celebrated.
7/16/2014 • 5 minutes
Savonarola
In this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols introduces us to Girolamo Savonarola and his book "The Triumph of the Cross."
7/9/2014 • 5 minutes
My 5 Favorite Church Historians
In this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols shares with us his 5 favorite church historians.
7/2/2014 • 5 minutes
Lyon
In this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols takes us back to AD 177 and tells the story of the Christian martyrs at Lyon.
6/25/2014 • 5 minutes
The 28 Theses
In this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols introduces us to Martin Luther's Heidelberg Disputation and shares what may be the most beautiful sentence Luther ever wrote.
6/18/2014 • 5 minutes
Charles II's Great Escape
In this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols tells us the story of the difficult "great escape" of Charles II.
6/11/2014 • 5 minutes
The 5 Ways of Thomas Aquinas
In this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols gives us an overview of Thomas Aquinas' "5 ways" for arguing the existence of God.
6/4/2014 • 5 minutes
This Church Father Could Preach
In this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols introduces us to the "golden mouth" of the early church, John Chrysostom.
5/28/2014 • 5 minutes
Ben Chimes in on George
In this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols describes the friendship of Benjamin Franklin and George Whitefield.
5/21/2014 • 5 minutes
Two Great Little Books, Part 2
In this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols considers why Jesus came and why He died on the cross as explained by Anselm in his book Cur Deus Homo.
5/14/2014 • 5 minutes
Two Great Little Books, Part 1
In this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols introduces us to the ontological argument for the existence of God as outlined by Anselm in his book Proslogion.
5/7/2014 • 5 minutes
The Roaring 20s
In this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols takes us back to the "Roaring 20s," a decade in which the 20th century church faced many battles.
4/30/2014 • 5 minutes
Five Point Deliverance, Part 2
In this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols concludes a series on the fundamental doctrines of orthodox Christianity that were expressed in the Five Point Deliverance.
4/23/2014 • 5 minutes
Five Point Deliverance, Part 1
In this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols starts a 2-part series looking at the Five Point Deliverance and the Fundamentalist-Modernist controversy at the beginning of the twentieth century.
4/16/2014 • 5 minutes
Deserted Island Top 5: W. Robert Godfrey
In this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols is joined by Dr. W. Robert Godfrey. He asks Dr. Godfrey to share what five books he would want if on a deserted island.
4/9/2014 • 5 minutes
Machen & Mountains
In this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols explains why J. Gresham Machen wrote, "I do love the mountains, and I have loved them ever since I can remember anything at all."
4/2/2014 • 5 minutes
The God of Abraham Praise
In this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols introduces us to "The God of Abraham Praise," a hymn written by a man converted under the preaching of George Whitefield.
3/26/2014 • 5 minutes
What Is the Church?, Part 2
In this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols continues his look at John Bunyan's "The Pilgrim's Progress" to conclude his answer to this very important question.
3/19/2014 • 5 minutes
What Is the Church?, Part 1
In this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols looks at John Bunyan's "The Pilgrim's Progress" as he begins to answer a very important question.
3/12/2014 • 5 minutes
Monica: A Mother's Prayer
In this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols introduces us to Augustine's prayerful mother.
3/5/2014 • 5 minutes
The Briggs Case
In this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols takes us to the trial of Charles Augustus Briggs to remind us of the importance of the inerrancy of Scripture.
2/26/2014 • 5 minutes
1799: Oh, What A Feeling
In this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols takes us back to the year 1799 and the beginnings of modern liberalism.
2/19/2014 • 5 minutes
Slave, Minuteman, Pastor: Lemuel Haynes
In this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols encourages us to be courageous as he shares the five character traits of a pastor as written by Lemuel Haynes.
2/12/2014 • 5 minutes
1638: The Scottish Reformation, Part 3
In this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols finishes his 3 part series on the Scottish Reformation with the story of Jenny Geddes and what she threw at her minister.
2/5/2014 • 5 minutes
1558: The Scottish Reformation, Part 2
In this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols continues his introduction to the Scottish Reformation with the story of an 82 year old martyr, Walter Milne.
1/29/2014 • 5 minutes
1528: The Scottish Reformation, Part 1
In this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols introduces us to Patrick Hamilton and the beginning of the Scottish Reformation.
1/22/2014 • 5 minutes
Tradition, Take 2
In this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols looks to Paul's words in 2 Timothy 2:2 to help us think about "tradition" in a healthy way .
1/15/2014 • 5 minutes
Tradition?
In this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols returns to the subject of "tradition" as he shares a cautionary tale from the legend of Saint Sebastian.
1/8/2014 • 5 minutes
Sausage Supper
In this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols shares what he believes is one of the most interesting events in all of church history: the famous sausage supper of 1522.
1/1/2014 • 5 minutes
Merry Christmas, Mr. Watts
In this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols introduces us to the great Christmas hymn, "Joy to the World," and its author, Isaac Watts.
12/25/2013 • 5 minutes
David Brainerd's Hebrew Dictionary
In this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols takes us to the library at Princeton University to tell the story of a man who owned a book bound in otter skin.
12/18/2013 • 5 minutes
Two Disciples of John: Polycarp
In this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols introduces us to another disciple of the Apostle John, the church father Polycarp.
12/11/2013 • 5 minutes
Two Disciples of John: Ignatius
In this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols introduces us to Ignatius, the first of two church fathers we'll consider in the coming weeks who were disciples of the Apostle John.
12/4/2013 • 5 minutes
5 Members of the Westminster Assembly Everyone Should Know
In this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols concludes his series on "Westminster" by introducing us to 5 members of the Westminster Assembly everyone should know.
11/27/2013 • 5 minutes
5 Things Everyone Should Know About the Westminster Standards
In this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols introduces us to the Westminster Standards, a collection of documents that have been described as "the fullest and ripest expression of the Reformation and Reformation thought."
11/20/2013 • 5 minutes
Martin Luther: The 95 Theses, Take 2
In this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols spends another week in Martin Luther's "95 Theses" to remind us of our weakness and constant need to cling to the cross of Christ.
11/6/2013 • 5 minutes
Martin Luther: Top 5 of the 95
In this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols celebrates Reformation Day by taking us back to 1517 and sharing his "Top 5" from Martin Luther's "95 Theses".
10/30/2013 • 5 minutes
Deserted Island Top 5: R.C. Sproul
In this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols is joined by Dr. R.C. Sproul. He asks Dr. Sproul to share what five books from church history he would want if on a deserted island.
10/23/2013 • 5 minutes
1066: A Good Year for a Monk
In this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols gives us reasons to be thankful as he takes us back to 1066, a crucial year for William the Conqueror, the history of England, and the life of one monk.
10/16/2013 • 5 minutes
The Pursuit of Happiness: According to William Ames
In this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols introduces us to William Ames and reminds us that theology isn't dry academic study, rather it's the pursuit of the good life—the Godward life.
10/9/2013 • 5 minutes
Bonus Episode: Happy 310th Birthday, Jonathan Edwards
In this bonus episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols shares 5 reasons to celebrate Jonathan Edwards' 310th birthday.
10/5/2013 • 5 minutes
A Tale of Two Genevans: Calvin and Rousseau
In this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols considers two opposing views of mankind as he tells the tale of two Genevans, John Calvin and Jean-Jacques Rousseau.
10/2/2013 • 5 minutes
T is for Trinity (and Tertullian)
In this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols introduces us to Tertullian, the theologian known for coining the terms "Old and New Testament" and "Trinity."
9/25/2013 • 5 minutes
What a Mosaic Can Teach Us: Hinton St. Mary Dorset
In this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols reminds us that Christ is the center, the beginning and the end, as he describes an ancient mosaic.
9/18/2013 • 5 minutes
Is Spurgeon Right?
In this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols considers a well-known quote from Charles Spurgeon as he pauses to reflect on the importance of Christians studying church history.
9/11/2013 • 5 minutes
Jonathan Edwards' Favorite Word
In this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols asks the question, "What is Jonathan Edwards' favorite word?" The answer is not what many would expect.
9/4/2013 • 5 minutes
A Book in His Hand
In this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols takes us to the grave of John Bunyan to tell the story of a man with a book in his hand.
8/28/2013 • 5 minutes
Lost Letter to the Corinthians
In this episode of 5 Minutes in Church History, Dr. Stephen Nichols shares an intriguing story from the life of John Calvin and offers us encouragement during times of worry.