Today in Church His-Story Podcast

On Today in Church His-Story (Episode 46) we discover the significance of the Second Scottish Confession, otherwise known as the Negative Confession. The signing of this document on January 28, 1581 reminds the church of her duty to not only stand up for what she believes in an era of error, but to also stand up for what she is against. We do this with firm confidence that our King stands with us when we stand with truth.

On Today in Church His-Story (Episode 45) we consider how the Root and Branch Petition has modern day application.

On Today in Church His-Story (Episode 44) we meet the intriguing group of men known as the Fifth Monarchy Men. Who were they? What was their relationship to Charles II, King of England? And what does it have to do with Christians today?

On Today in Church His-Story (Episode 43) we learn about the erroneous charges leveled against “The Morning Star of the Reformation”, John Wycliffe. Learn how his influence spread into our own day, and why it is critically important for pastors to be bold scholars of truth.

On Today in Church His-Story (Episode 42) we commemorate March 24, 1861. On this day, Charles Spurgeon preached his first sermon in the newly built Metropolitan Tabernacle. The first words of this first sermon reveal Spurgeon’s entire philosophy of ministry. There is much the church can learn in just these brief sentences.

On Today in Church His-Story (Episode 41) we learn about a young preacher whose life was cut short. But from this stump came many fruitful branches of gospel preachers. Patrick Hamilton was the first martyr of the Scottish Reformation. He preached the pure gospel before George Wishart and John Knox. He wrote a work entitled Patrick’s Places, an affirmation that salvation is by grace alone in Christ alone. On this podcast we discover Patrick’s place in history. (Music on this Podcast furnished by Bensound, Mid-Air Machine)

On Today in Church His-Story (Episode 40) we commemorate February 26, 398. On this date, John Chrysostom, the golden mouthed preacher of the early church, was ordained as Bishop of Constantinople. This expositor of the early Greek fathers left a legacy of bold preaching. His boldness led to blessing as well as sacrifice. His life and commitment to preaching sound theology, while also calling for holy living, is a reminder to all expository preachers that preaching Scripture faithfully always comes with a cost. (Music on this Podcast furnished by Bensound, Mid-Air Machine)

On Today in Church His-Story (Episode 39) we commemorate the death of the Reformer and fortress for truth, Martin Luther (1483-1546). What did he say in his remaining hours on this earth? Was his faith in Christ strong? Did he stand by the gospel he preached? Find out on today’s podcast. Music on this podcast: Bensound, A Whale on It’s Side

On Today in Church His-Story (Episode 38) we remember the first “Marian Martyr”, John Rogers. Rogers was burnt at the stake on February 4, 1555. A biblical scholar and gospel soldier, Rogers’ martyrdom led the way for a long line of martyrs under Queen Bloody Mary. In this podcast, we also discover Rogers relationship with William Tyndale.(Music on this Podcast furnished by Bensound, Mid-Air Machine)

On Today in Church His-Story (Episode 37) we commemorate January 14, 1739, the day George Whitefield was ordained to preach. Forced to forsake the ornate buildings of the Church of England, Whitefield was noted for his field preaching. Carrying a portable pulpit everywhere he went, Whitefield became the most celebrated preacher of the First Great Awakening to the glory of God. What can preacher’s today learn from Whitefield’s stamina, faithfulness, orthodoxy, and boldness in the task of preaching? Find out on this episode.*At the 5 minute mark, I make a remark that may sound like I’m suggesting John Wesley wasn’t a hard worker. Much to the contrary. Wesley taught the unbiblical doctrine of perfectionism and therefore emphasized the work and diligence of a Christian. He was a hard worker to be sure. What I was trying to communicate was that what separated Wesley and Whitefield were their doctrinal differences not their industrious spirits, which they both shared. In spite of Whitefield’s affirmation of predestination, he yet possessed a hard working drive. He was not apathetic in spite of his Calvinism. He did not believe, but heartily rejected perfectionism, and yet he was driven in holiness and working with excellence to the glory of God. Music on this Podcast furnished by royalty free music: Mid-Air Machine, A Whale On It’s Side

On Today in Church His-Story (Episode 36) we unveil a decision that changed the course of history. Ulrich Zwingli is considered to be the father of the Swiss Reformation. But what sparked the fire of reformation in Switzerland? Find out on today’s segment.

On Today in Church His-Story (Episode 35) we learn some important lessons from the life and ministry of John Cotton who was born on this day, December 4, 1584. Considered to be the patriarch of New England, Cotton was one of the most influential Puritans to migrate to America.

On Today in Church His-Story (Episode 34) we are privileged to have some special guests describe the significance of Reformation Day. On this day, October 31, 1517, Martin Luther hammered his way into history.

On Today in Church His-Story (Episode 33) we take a trip down the St. John’s River in Florida via the Atlantic Ocean. Our port of departure was in France where we’ve been commissioned by the French government to establish a colony for religious freedom. But on September 20, 1565 Pedro Menendez, the Spanish Commander, was sent by Phillip II to destroy the men, women, and children in this permanent settlement in the United States. The settlement was not Jamestown or Plymouth Rock, but Fort Caroline. The settlers were Calvinists. Learn about this rarely spoken about event in church history and why it matters for today.

On Today in Church His-Story (Episode 32) we consider one of the most important dates of the Reformation era, September 13, 1541. On this day in history, John Calvin came to the rescue of Geneva. After being chased out of town by the city council three years earlier, Calvin was happily pastoring in Strasbourg. He said he’d rather die a hundred deaths than return to Geneva. But they needed him. They wanted him to return! Find out why on this episode as we tell about one of the most unlikely, providential twists in church history.

On Today in Church His-Story (Episode 31) we discuss what happened this day in the first century when John the Baptist was beheaded by Herod Antipas for standing against his adulterous marriage to Herodias. What do we learn about stances for truth in our own day from this? How can Christians be like John the Baptist–both gospel proclaimers and moral reformers? Are these two mutually exclusive? Where’s the balance? Find out my suggestions to these questions on this episode.

On Today in Church His-Story (Episode 30) we consider the legacy of the Puritan preacher, Increase Mather, who died on this day in 1723. Mather was a modern day prophet, calling New Englander’s to Christ. He sought revival and believed that many of those with Christian roots were not believers since they were incapable of making credible professions of faith. Later he endorsed less restrictions for admitting people into church membership. We consider what all this means for us today in this podcast.

On Today in Church His-Story (Episode 29) we look back to the closing of the Council of Nicaea, which occurred on this day, July 25, 325. Some historians say it was August 25. Nobody is for certain. What is for certain, however, is what took place at Nicaea. A creed affirming the orthodox view of the doctrine of the person of Christ was established in this first ecumenical council. On this episode, we consider the influence of three men in particular: Origen, Constantine, and Athanasius. This council changed history. Athanasius’ stand changed history. We learn that it was also one letter of one word that also changed history. See also The Theological Precision of Athanasius

On Today in Church His-Story (Episode 28) we look at the most bizarre place the sacrament of the Lord’s Supper has ever reportedly been observed. It’s kind of “out there” to consider, literally out there. On this date in 1969, astronaut Buzz Aldrin took part in a private observance of the Lord’s Supper in outer space during the first moon landing mission. Listen as we ask and answer whether this was biblically permissible. We also consider whether it’s ever biblically permissible to partake of the Lord’s Supper privately apart from the gathering of the local church assembly.

On Today in Church His-Story (Episode 27) we take a look at the Reformed theology of the young Lady Jane Grey. Her given name was Jane Dudley. It was on this day, July 10, 1553, that Lady Jane Grey became the Queen of England. Grey ascended the throne to become the Queen of England at 16 years old. She reigned only nine days. At just 17, she was martyred by the Roman Catholic, Queen Bloody Mary. In this episode we consider Lady Jane Grey’s theology by taking a glance at her response to Archbishop Feckenham, as well as the letter she wrote to her sister Katherine from the Tower of London just hours before being led to her place of execution.

On Today in Church His-Story (Episode 26) we take a look at John Flavel, one of the most faithful non-conforming English Puritans. He died on June 26, 1691 after many years of battle-hardened service to King Jesus. This man was willing to do whatever was necessary to fulfill his calling to preach the Word. Whether preaching on soon to be submerged islands, in the woods, or in private homes, Flavel was relentless in his quest to feed his flock with the Scriptures. He ran from the authorities, sometimes disguising himself, in order to finish sermons he had already started before being broken up by the king’s soldiers. Flavel demonstrates the one word that must mark every minister–faithful. He was faithful to the Word, faithful to the people he pastored, and faithful to his Lord. May God graciously give us more men who are marked by conviction, not compromise! Flavel demonstrates both convictions preached and lived out. For more details on John Flavel, read John Flavel’s Unflagging Commitment to Preaching

On Today in Church His-Story (Episode 25) we look at the charismatic figure, Aimee Semple McPherson. Once thought to be dead, a memorial service was held in her honor by her mother. But after five weeks she reappeared in a Mexican desert. Credited as the founder of the Foursquare Gospel churches, McPherson’s influence on the charismatic movement could hardly be overestimated. Her antics bear the marks of modern day charismatic leaders. As the first female at the helm of a megachurch, McPherson set the stage for later women claiming to be called into the ministry as preachers and pastors. In many respects, she can be considered a modern day Jezebel.

Luther, the former monk, married von Bora, the former nun. Together they had a large family. Through his pastoral letters, sermons, lectures, and treatises, Luther spoke much about Biblical marriage.

Listen to see how soldier Spurgeon wields the Sword of the Lord one final time before being laid to rest.

William Carey launched the modern missions movement, and then got a ship and launched himself into missionary activity!

John Wycliffe survived an earthquake because he was standing on the solid ground of Scripture.

G. Campbell Morgan was relentless in the study, which made his sermon delivery effortless.

Matthew Henry was the son of a minister who was saved under his father’s preaching. His father’s biblical convictions became Matthew’s own, and the Lord used him mightily. Listen to find out how.

Listen to learn about the many reasons why the greatest of all Reformers, John Calvin, was kicked out of his first pastorate.

Philipp Melanchthon was more mild tempered than Luther. Even still, his intellect and leadership skills left him with a reputation as one of the most articulate spokesmen of the Protestant Reformation.

Listen to find out the significance of the Edict of Nantes, as well as why governmental policies will all ultimately fail. There is only one King of Kings who has power to change hearts.

Ambrose of Milan was a scrappy theological fighter against the Arians. He was also an eloquent preacher whose sermons led to Augustine’s own conversion.

See how Cranmer, the Archbishop of Canterbury, shows resolve and patience in his efforts of reforming the church in England.

John Gill was a man criticized for defending God’s glory in election and predestination. Dr. Tom Nettles makes a compelling case that Gill actually promoted, rather than inhibited, evangelistic zeal.

A corrupt plot for selfish gain by church leaders is sovereignly used by God to bring revival.

Though not as well known as John Knox, Knox himself was shaped by this man’s bold declaration of God’s truth. Meet the forerunner to the Scottish Reformation, George Wishart.

Eric Liddell ran the race of life…and it was victorious.

Learn how an influential minister passed on a legacy of faithful gospel ministry to a younger man.

MacArthur warns about the danger of playing church…50 years later he’s sounding the same alarm.

Calvin preaches his last sermon…a lesson in faithfulness for the long haul.

Erasmus of Rotterdam unleashed a flood of his own making. Find out why it was worth it by taking a listen.

On Today in Church His-Story (Episode 5), we analyze a secret letter written by Pliny the Younger to Emperor Trajan. What seems like an exchange of gentlemanly correspondence turns out to be a scandalous plot to kill more Christians. Consider what this means for us today.

On Today in Church His-Story (Episode 4), discover how King James’ commissioning of the Authorized Version impacted the English language. Behind this historical phenomenon is a very important lesson for Christians today regarding the power of God’s Word.

On Today in Church His-Story (Episode 3), we find out that even great missionaries like David Brainerd are mortal. Brainerd’s journal entries provide inspiring spiritual encouragement to God’s people today. But on January 14, 1743, Brainerd writes some surprising words. They are dark words, but beneath them is light. Behind them is encouragement for your weary soul.

On Today in Church His-Story (Episode 2), we see a the modern effects of a scandal that rocked the 19th century. America’s most beloved pastor spoke powerfully to a generation disillusioned by the Civil War. Unfortunately, his public moral failure led to a common trend in the American church and culture that extends into our day. Consider how this event should shape our Biblical understanding of ministry, pastors, and sin.

On Today in Church His-Story Episode 1, we discover what led to the Pope’s excommunication of Martin Luther from the church. This initial episode sets the tone for the theme of this podcast, which is God’s sovereignty in orchestrating events in the theater of His world for the express purpose of His own glory.