5 Minutes in Church History with Stephen Nichols

What was it like to grow up in a missionary home on the edge of the American frontier? Today, Stephen Nichols tells the story of Esther and Jonathan Edwards Jr., two of Jonathan Edwards' children, and their unforgettable years in Stockbridge. Read the transcript: https://ligonier.org/podcasts/5-minutes-in-church-history-with-stephen-nichols/missionary-kids-in-stockbridge/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://donate.ligonier.org/ Explore all of our podcasts: https://www.ligonier.org/podcasts

What was trending in the 18th century? Today, Stephen Nichols walks through five key developments that shaped the church, including revival, hymnody, and the early sparks of global missions. Read the transcript: https://ligonier.org/podcasts/5-minutes-in-church-history-with-stephen-nichols/trending-in-the-18th-century/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://donate.ligonier.org/ Explore all of our podcasts: https://www.ligonier.org/podcasts

John Witherspoon was an integral figure in American Presbyterianism. Today, Stephen Nichols and Kevin DeYoung explore this Scottish pastor's legacy as a theologian, patriot, and president of Princeton University. Read the transcript: https://ligonier.org/podcasts/5-minutes-in-church-history-with-stephen-nichols/what-everyone-needs-to-know-about-john-witherspoon/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://donate.ligonier.org/ Explore all of our podcasts: https://www.ligonier.org/podcasts

What would you read on a deserted island? Today, Stephen Nichols is joined by Dr. Kevin DeYoung to discuss five of his most treasured books—each reflecting his love for theology, church history, and pastoral ministry. Read the transcript: https://ligonier.org/podcasts/5-minutes-in-church-history-with-stephen-nichols/deserted-island-with-kevin-deyoung/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://donate.ligonier.org/ Explore all of our podcasts: https://www.ligonier.org/podcasts

Raymond Lull devoted his life to proclaiming the gospel to Muslims and Jews. Today, Stephen Nichols tells the story of this medieval missionary whose love for Christ led him to a ministry of study, debate, and bold witness. Read the transcript: https://ligonier.org/podcasts/5-minutes-in-church-history-with-stephen-nichols/raymund-lull-medieval-missionary/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://donate.ligonier.org/ Explore all of our podcasts: https://www.ligonier.org/podcasts

Raised in India and trained in London, Dr. Paul Brand combined medical skill with gentle compassion. Today, Stephen Nichols explores how this missionary doctor's care for leprosy patients reflected the heart of Christ. Read the transcript: https://ligonier.org/podcasts/5-minutes-in-church-history-with-stephen-nichols/meet-dr-paul-brand/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://donate.ligonier.org/ Explore all of our podcasts: https://www.ligonier.org/podcasts

In the early days of the Reformation, not all voices were united. Today, Stephen Nichols tells the story of the Zwickau Prophets, a group of radical preachers whose mystical and apocalyptic teachings clashed with Martin Luther's commitment to Scripture alone. Read the transcript: https://ligonier.org/podcasts/5-minutes-in-church-history-with-stephen-nichols/the-zwickau-prophets/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://donate.ligonier.org/ Explore all of our podcasts: https://www.ligonier.org/podcasts

On December 27, 1657, a group of Dutch colonists in New Netherland took a stand for religious liberty. Today, Stephen Nichols tells the story of the Flushing Remonstrance, one of the earliest American documents to defend religious freedom. Read the transcript: https://ligonier.org/podcasts/5-minutes-in-church-history-with-stephen-nichols/the-flushing-remonstrance A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://donate.ligonier.org/ Explore all of our podcasts: https://www.ligonier.org/podcasts

Isaac Watts' influence extends far beyond the hymns he penned. Today, Stephen Nichols reflects on five powerful sayings from Watts, revealing his deep theological insight and enduring impact on Christian worship. Read the transcript: https://ligonier.org/podcasts/5-minutes-in-church-history-with-stephen-nichols/isaac-watts-in-5-sayings A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://donate.ligonier.org/ Explore all of our podcasts: https://www.ligonier.org/podcasts

What does it mean to seek true glory? Today, Stephen Nichols explores C.S. Lewis' The Weight of Glory, reflecting on our deepest longings, the promise of eternity, and how the gospel shapes our view of others. Read the transcript: https://ligonier.org/podcasts/5-minutes-in-church-history-with-stephen-nichols/the-weight-of-glory A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://donate.ligonier.org/ Explore all of our podcasts: https://www.ligonier.org/podcasts

If you visit the Island of Rhodes, you'll experience centuries of history. Today, Stephen Nichols explores this island's rich past—from the towering Colossus of Rhodes to the influence of the Knights of St. John—and its connections to biblical and church history. Read the transcript: https://ligonier.org/podcasts/5-minutes-in-church-history-with-stephen-nichols/rhodes-in-history/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://donate.ligonier.org/ Explore all of our podcasts: https://www.ligonier.org/podcasts

What is saving faith? Today, Stephen Nichols looks to Charles Hodge's teaching on Galatians 2:20, exploring how true faith rests in Christ alone, trusts in His love, and clings to His atoning work for our salvation. Read the transcript: https://ligonier.org/podcasts/5-minutes-in-church-history-with-stephen-nichols/charles-hodge-what-is-saving-faith/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://donate.ligonier.org/ Explore all of our podcasts: https://www.ligonier.org/podcasts

What is systematic theology? Today, Stephen Nichols delves into Charles Hodge's definition of theology as a science, reflecting on how Hodge arranged biblical truths in a harmonious system while emphasizing the necessity of the Holy Spirit. Read the transcript: https://ligonier.org/podcasts/5-minutes-in-church-history-with-stephen-nichols/charles-hodge-what-is-systematic-theology/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://donate.ligonier.org/ Explore all of our podcasts: https://www.ligonier.org/podcasts

In the second century, Athenagoras of Athens defended the Christian faith before Emperor Marcus Aurelius. Today, Stephen Nichols explains how his treatise, A Plea for the Christians, reflects the early church's responses to persecution. Read the transcript: https://ligonier.org/podcasts/5-minutes-in-church-history-with-stephen-nichols/athenagoras/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://donate.ligonier.org/ Explore all of our podcasts: https://www.ligonier.org/podcasts

Athens stands as a cornerstone of Western civilization, philosophy, and church history. Today, Stephen Nichols takes us to this ancient city, exploring its legacy as the home of democracy, Socratic thought, and Paul's famous sermon on Mars Hill. Read the transcript: https://ligonier.org/podcasts/5-minutes-in-church-history-with-stephen-nichols/athens-in-church-history/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://donate.ligonier.org/ Explore all of our podcasts: https://www.ligonier.org/podcasts

Constantine's first church in Constantinople, the Hagia Irene, played a significant role in the development of the Nicene Creed. Today, Stephen Nichols explores this church's rich history and its transformation through the centuries. Read the transcript: https://ligonier.org/podcasts/5-minutes-in-church-history-with-stephen-nichols/istanbul-the-hagia-irene/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://donate.ligonier.org/ Explore all of our podcasts: https://www.ligonier.org/podcasts

Emperor Justinian transformed the city of Constantinople by commissioning a magnificent church: the Hagia Sophia. Today, Stephen Nichols explores five key moments in the church's history. Read the transcript: https://ligonier.org/podcasts/5-minutes-in-church-history-with-stephen-nichols/istanbul-the-hagia-sophia/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://donate.ligonier.org/ Explore all of our podcasts: https://www.ligonier.org/podcasts

Who was Louis IX? Today, Stephen Nichols explores the remarkable life of this medieval French king, renowned for his piety, moral leadership, and role in the Crusades. Read the transcript: https://ligonier.org/podcasts/5-minutes-in-church-history-with-stephen-nichols/louis-ix/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://donate.ligonier.org/ Explore all of our podcasts: https://www.ligonier.org/podcasts

Christian literature has played a vital role in spreading the gospel and shaping evangelical thought. Today, Stephen Nichols continues to trace the history of Christian publishing in America, highlighting key figures in the 20th century. Read the transcript: https://ligonier.org/podcasts/5-minutes-in-church-history-with-stephen-nichols/american-christian-publishing-20th-century-contributions/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://donate.ligonier.org/ Explore all of our podcasts: https://www.ligonier.org/podcasts

How did Christian publishing take root in America? Today, Stephen Nichols traces the development of Christian literature, highlighting the innovative ways the gospel has been spread through the printed word. Read the transcript: https://ligonier.org/podcasts/5-minutes-in-church-history-with-stephen-nichols/american-christian-publishing-19th-century-roots/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://donate.ligonier.org/ Explore all of our podcasts: https://www.ligonier.org/podcasts

Christian radio transformed how the gospel reached the masses in the 20th century. Today, Stephen Nichols explores the history of this powerful medium, highlighting figures whose programs brought God's Word into homes around the world. Read the transcript: https://ligonier.org/podcasts/5-minutes-in-church-history-with-stephen-nichols/christian-radio/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://donate.ligonier.org/ Explore all of our podcasts: https://www.ligonier.org/podcasts

When did January 1 become New Year's Day? Today, listen as Stephen Nichols traces the history of the calendar, exploring how church traditions and historical events shaped the observance of the new year. Read the transcript: https://ligonier.org/podcasts/5-minutes-in-church-history-with-stephen-nichols/happy-new-year/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://donate.ligonier.org/ Explore all of our podcasts: https://www.ligonier.org/podcasts

What makes Christmas truly meaningful? Today, Stephen Nichols reflects on Dietrich Bonhoeffer's 1939 Christmas sermon, uncovering timeless insights on the miracle of the incarnation, the sacred mystery of God becoming man. Read the transcript: https://ligonier.org/podcasts/5-minutes-in-church-history-with-stephen-nichols/christmas-with-bonhoeffer/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://donate.ligonier.org/ Explore all of our podcasts: https://www.ligonier.org/podcasts

Bible camps and conference centers have played a significant role in shaping the spiritual lives of countless Christians. Today, Stephen Nichols traces the history of these retreats, reflecting on their unique contribution to the life of the church throughout the 20th century. Read the transcript: https://ligonier.org/podcasts/5-minutes-in-church-history-with-stephen-nichols/bible-camps/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://donate.ligonier.org/ Explore all of our podcasts: https://www.ligonier.org/podcasts

Dietrich Bonhoeffer's life of faith and adversity offers profound lessons for Christians in our day. Today, Stephen Nichols reflects on five powerful sayings from Bonhoeffer, illuminating his steadfast commitment to Christ, even in the face of immense trials. Read the transcript: https://ligonier.org/podcasts/5-minutes-in-church-history-with-stephen-nichols/bonhoeffer-in-5-sayings/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://donate.ligonier.org/ Explore all of our podcasts: https://www.ligonier.org/podcasts

In 1836, Tryon Edwards, Jonathan Edwards' great-grandson, delivered a Thanksgiving sermon celebrating the Puritans' perseverance and faith. Today, Stephen Nichols explores their strong belief in God's providence and their dedication to pure worship. Read the transcript: https://ligonier.org/podcasts/5-minutes-in-church-history-with-stephen-nichols/another-thanksgiving-sermon/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://donate.ligonier.org/ Explore all of our podcasts: https://www.ligonier.org/podcasts

What Thanksgiving traditions do you cherish? Today, Stephen Nichols explores Thanksgiving's roots in church history, highlighting how the holiday has helped Christians focus on the biblical theme of gratitude throughout the years. Read the transcript: https://ligonier.org/podcasts/5-minutes-in-church-history-with-stephen-nichols/thanksgiving-day-sermons/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://donate.ligonier.org/ Explore all of our podcasts: https://www.ligonier.org/podcasts

What's on your wish list this year? Today, Stephen Nichols continues sharing books that have shaped his life, suggesting five books from church history that offer a glimpse into the rich theological heritage that has shaped the church. Read the transcript: https://ligonier.org/podcasts/5-minutes-in-church-history-with-stephen-nichols/what-i-want-for-christmas-influential-books/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://donate.ligonier.org/ Explore all of our podcasts: https://www.ligonier.org/podcasts

What books have left a lasting impact on your life? Today, Stephen Nichols shares a curated list of classic literature and church history writings that have profoundly shaped him, titles we might want to add to our own libraries. Read the transcript: https://ligonier.org/podcasts/5-minutes-in-church-history-with-stephen-nichols/what-i-want-for-christmas-classic-writings/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://donate.ligonier.org/ Explore all of our podcasts: https://www.ligonier.org/podcasts

Many of the hymns we know and love are paired with classical tunes. Today, Stephen Nichols explores how compositions from Beethoven, Haydn, Mendelssohn, and others have shaped our beloved hymns. Read the transcript: https://ligonier.org/podcasts/5-minutes-in-church-history-with-stephen-nichols/classical-tunes-for-classic-hymns/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://donate.ligonier.org/ Explore all of our podcasts: https://www.ligonier.org/podcasts

At the Diet of Worms, Martin Luther boldly affirmed Scripture's authority over all else—including church councils and papal decrees. Today, Stephen Nichols examines this pivotal moment and Luther's final words, “We are beggars. This is true.” Read the transcript: https://ligonier.org/podcasts/5-minutes-in-church-history-with-stephen-nichols/luther-in-5-sayings-defender-of-scripture/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://donate.ligonier.org/ Explore all of our podcasts: https://www.ligonier.org/podcasts

Martin Luther's journey from monk to Reformer was shaped by a spiritual transformation. Today, Stephen Nichols explores Luther's early life, including a vow made during a storm and his realization that salvation comes through Christ alone. Read the transcript: https://ligonier.org/podcasts/5-minutes-in-church-history-with-stephen-nichols/luther-in-5-sayings-convicted-monk/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://donate.ligonier.org/ Explore all of our podcasts: https://www.ligonier.org/podcasts

Zion Presbyterian Church, founded by John Lafayette Girardeau in 1858, was one of the first integrated congregations in the American South. Today, Stephen Nichols tells the story of a historic church in "The Holy City," Charleston, South Carolina. Read the transcript: https://ligonier.org/podcasts/5-minutes-in-church-history-with-stephen-nichols/zion-presbyterian-church/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://donate.ligonier.org/ Explore all of our podcasts: https://www.ligonier.org/podcasts

Jonathan Edwards was known for his deep reflections on God's mercy, sovereignty, and providence. Today, Stephen Nichols examines Edwards' sermons and writings on these key doctrines. Read the transcript: https://ligonier.org/podcasts/5-minutes-in-church-history-with-stephen-nichols/edwards-in-5-sayings-key-doctrines/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://donate.ligonier.org/ Explore all of our podcasts: https://www.ligonier.org/podcasts

Jonathan Edwards was a prominent figure in American theology. Today, Stephen Nichols examines Edwards' reflections on God's creation, his exaltation of God's sovereignty, and his heart for sinners in need of Christ's mercy. Read the transcript: https://ligonier.org/podcasts/5-minutes-in-church-history-with-stephen-nichols/edwards-in-5-sayings-american-theologian/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://donate.ligonier.org/ Explore all of our podcasts: https://www.ligonier.org/podcasts

During a period of theological upheaval, J. Gresham Machen firmly defended Christian orthodoxy. Today, Stephen Nichols highlights Machen's commitment to doctrine, his awe at God's majesty, and his hope in the active obedience of Christ. Read the transcript: https://ligonier.org/podcasts/5-minutes-in-church-history-with-stephen-nichols/machen-in-5-sayings-defender-of-orthodoxy/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://donate.ligonier.org/ Explore all of our podcasts: https://www.ligonier.org/podcasts

J. Gresham Machen stood as a stalwart defender of Christian orthodoxy in the early 20th century. Today, Stephen Nichols explores key quotes that reveal the courage and scholarship that defined Machen's lasting impact on the church. Read the transcript: https://ligonier.org/podcasts/5-minutes-in-church-history-with-stephen-nichols/machen-in-5-sayings-courageous-scholar/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://donate.ligonier.org/ Explore all of our podcasts: https://www.ligonier.org/podcasts

Throughout his ministry, R.C. Sproul made theology accessible by applying the deep truths of the Christian faith to everyday life. Today, Stephen Nichols attempts to summarize Dr. Sproul's major ideas into five key phrases. Read the transcript: https://ligonier.org/podcasts/5-minutes-in-church-history-with-stephen-nichols/rc-sproul-in-5-sayings/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://donate.ligonier.org/ Explore all of our podcasts: https://www.ligonier.org/podcasts

Which of Augustine's teachings and ideas have had a lasting impact on the church? Today, Stephen Nichols explores Augustine's theological thought through five key sayings from his most influential works. Read the transcript: https://ligonier.org/podcasts/5-minutes-in-church-history-with-stephen-nichols/augustine-in-5-sayings/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://donate.ligonier.org/ Explore all of our podcasts: https://www.ligonier.org/podcasts

The Apocalypse Tapestry was created to teach a mostly illiterate audience about the book of Revelation. Today, Stephen Nichols highlights how biblical storytelling and medieval artistry are combined in this tapestry to instruct and inspire. Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/the-meaning-of-the-apocalypse-tapestry/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://www.ligonier.org/donate/ Explore all of our podcasts: https://www.ligonier.org/podcasts

Commissioned by Louis I and completed in 1382, the massive Apocalypse Tapestry is a visual representation of the book of Revelation. Today, Stephen Nichols discusses the creation of this masterpiece and its eventual restoration after surviving damage during the French War. Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/the-history-of-the-apocalypse-tapestry/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://www.ligonier.org/donate/ Explore all of our podcasts: https://www.ligonier.org/podcasts

Jonathan Edwards quickly noticed corruption in the school intended to teach Native American children in Stockbridge, MA. Today, Stephen Nichols explains the dramatic events that transpired around this conflict. Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/august-1752/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://www.ligonier.org/donate/ Explore all of our podcasts: https://www.ligonier.org/podcasts