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On this week's program, embattled Kanakuk Kamps CEO Joe White announced he will retire at the end of this summer. We'll have details. Plus, Ligonier Ministries is under scrutiny after it announced that Stephen Nichols, one of its teaching fellows, would be leaving his role. This, around the same time he was excommunicated from St. Andrew's Chapel. We'll take a look at the fallout. And, with many eyes on Iran, one ministry with boots on the ground is encouraging Iranian Christians and sharing the gospel with Muslims affected by the war. But first, a court has ruled that the Chicago-area church led by well-known pastor Dane Ortlund illegally fired an employee back in 2021. The producer for today's program is Jeff McIntosh. We get database and other technical support from Stephen DuBarry, Rod Pitzer, and Casey Sudduth. Writers who contributed to today's program include Tony Mator, Kim Roberts, Jessica Eturralde, Stacey Horton, Erik Tryggestad, Bob Smietana, and Makella Knowles. A special thanks to Lifeway Research for contributing material for this week's podcast. Until next time, may God bless you.
In this episode of The Conquering Truth, we explore "contumacy"—the most common reason for excommunication in faithful churches today. While many assume church discipline is only for overt scandals like adultery, contumacy is a stubborn refusal to submit to the biblically established authority of the church. We discuss why this sin is comparable to the judicial concept of "contempt of court" within the body of Christ and how it manifests as a breach of the membership covenant and ask the following questions: Is it possible to simply "resign" from a local church to avoid the judgment of the elders? Or does this reveal a lack of respect for the universal church and the commands of Matthew 18? And if someone does flee to avoid discipline, is it wrong to excommunicate them for their refusal to recognize the authority of the church? Furthermore, if someone has been excommunicated from a church, is there any way that this can be appealed to other churches, or does scripture require a governing authority for this to happen?Many people first heard of contumacy because of the 2026 controversy involving Stephen Nichols and St. Andrew's Chapel, and while we will mention it in passing in the episode, we do not have sufficient information to discuss it in detail. Instead, we examine the normative process and the jurisdictional complexities that arise when members attempt to flee discipline. Many Christians today treat the church as if it has no real authority, as if it is a purely voluntary association that one can walk away from at any time. Theology impacts every facet of life, including how we resolve conflict and honor God's structure for His people. Discover why understanding contumacy is essential for the peace and purity of the church today.Thumbnail image by www.quotecatalog.comTimecodes00:00:00 What is it?00:07:00 Church Authority00:17:15 Our Experience00:25:00 Respecting Discipline00:28:15 Loving Your Neighbor00:32:40 Honoring Other's Excommunication00:52:40 Cult Behavior?01:01:05 Causing DivisionProduction of Reformation Baptist Church of Youngsville, NCPermanent Hosts - Dan Horn, Charles Churchill and Joshua HornTechnical Director - Timothy KaiserTheme Music - Gabriel Hudelson
In this episode of The Conquering Truth, we explore "contumacy"—the most common reason for excommunication in faithful churches today. While many assume church discipline is only for overt scandals like adultery, contumacy is a stubborn refusal to submit to the biblically established authority of the church. We discuss why this sin is comparable to the judicial concept of "contempt of court" within the body of Christ and how it manifests as a breach of the membership covenant and ask the following questions: Is it possible to simply "resign" from a local church to avoid the judgment of the elders? Or does this reveal a lack of respect for the universal church and the commands of Matthew 18? And if someone does flee to avoid discipline, is it wrong to excommunicate them for their refusal to recognize the authority of the church? Furthermore, if someone has been excommunicated from a church, is there any way that this can be appealed to other churches, or does scripture require a governing authority for this to happen?Many people first heard of contumacy because of the 2026 controversy involving Stephen Nichols and St. Andrew's Chapel, and while we will mention it in passing in the episode, we do not have sufficient information to discuss it in detail. Instead, we examine the normative process and the jurisdictional complexities that arise when members attempt to flee discipline. Many Christians today treat the church as if it has no real authority, as if it is a purely voluntary association that one can walk away from at any time. Theology impacts every facet of life, including how we resolve conflict and honor God's structur
Five-time Emmy nominee Thom Racina joined me for a fascinating look back at a remarkable career in daytime television and beyond.Thom shared behind-the-scenes stories from General Hospital's iconic Luke & Laura wedding, casting Stephen Nichols as Patch on Days of Our Lives, and what it was like bringing the legendary Elizabeth Taylor to Port Charles. His stories were candid, funny, and filled with history that longtime soap fans will appreciate.We talked about the evolution of daytime storytelling, writing unforgettable characters, and the creative risks that defined his career.Thom also revealed what may be the next exciting chapter. He is currently working with producer Tom Mazza on a limited series adaptation of his thriller Snow Angels. Thom said getting this project made would feel like the perfect capstone to a wonderful career — not only because it is a great thriller, but because it would put a meaningful bow on decades of storytelling.This was a conversation soap fans and lovers of great storytelling won't want to miss.
On today's program, Robert Morris is released from jail after serving 6 months behind bars. The former megachurch pastor released a statement apologizing to Cindy Clemishire, who he abused when she was just 12 years old. We'll take a look. And, a Christian school teacher has been charged for using AI to create child sexual abuse materials using the faces of his students. We look at steps parents can take to protect their children. Plus, red kettle rebound. The Salvation Army released numbers from the 2025 holiday season, and they showed an uptick in both in-person and online donations. But first, the Presbyterian Church in America is speaking out in defense of Stephen Nichols after St. Andrew's Chapel publicly excommunicated him. The producer for today's program is Jeff McIntosh. We get database and other technical support from Stephen DuBarry, Rod Pitzer, and Casey Sudduth. Writers who contributed to today's program include Kim Roberts, Bob Smeitana, Tony Mator, and Jessica Eturralde. A special thanks to The Nonprofit Times for contributing material for this week's podcast. Until next time, may God bless you.
3 Reformed institutions eject leader Stephen Nichols, as turmoil from church spreads … GUEST Daniel Silliman … senior reporter/editor at The Roys Report … Dan began his two decades in journalism covering crime in Atlanta and has since led major investigations into abuse and misconduct in Christian contexts. Anthropic fight w the Pentagon amid Iran war put Ethics of AI warfare in focus … GUEST Dr Charles Camosy … Prof at the Catholic University of America in the nation’s capitol … author of 7 books, incl “Beyond the Abortion Wars,” and “Resisting Throwaway Culture” … his most recent book is “Living and Dying Well: A Catholic Plan for Resisting Physician-Assisted Killing” … Charlie advises the Faith Outreach office of the Humane Society of the US & the pro-life commission of the Archdiocese of NY … He & his wife Paulyn have 4 kids, 3 of whom they adopted from a Filipino orphanage in 2016.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
How did Puritan pastor John Cotton end up on England's most wanted list? Today, Stephen Nichols continues his conversation with Stephen Yuille, exploring Cotton's flight to New England and the convictions that shaped his ministry. Read the transcript: https://ligonier.org/podcasts/5-minutes-in-church-history-with-stephen-nichols/5-things-everyone-should-know-about-john-cotton-a-committed-congregationalist/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://donate.ligonier.org/ Explore all of our podcasts: https://www.ligonier.org/podcasts
How did Puritan pastor John Cotton end up on England's most wanted list? Today, Stephen Nichols continues his conversation with Stephen Yuille, exploring Cotton's flight to New England and the convictions that shaped his ministry. Read the transcript: https://ligonier.org/podcasts/5-minutes-in-church-history-with-stephen-nichols/5-things-everyone-should-know-about-john-cotton-a-committed-congregationalist/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://donate.ligonier.org/ Explore all of our podcasts: https://www.ligonier.org/podcasts
On March 16, 2009, Rhonda Casto went on a hike in Oregon's Columbia River Gorge with her boyfriend, Stephen Nichols, only to never return home. Before Casto headed out on her hike, she joked to a friend that Nichols was either “going to propose or kill me”. Somewhere along the trail, she slipped or fell 150 feet to her death. “48 Hours" Correspondent Peter Van Sant reports. This classic "48 Hours" episode last aired on 9/08/2018. Watch all-new episodes of “48 Hours” on Saturdays and stream on demand on Paramount+. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
A theological system that interprets the Bible by dividing history into distinct periods called "dispensations," each characterized by a unique way God interacts with humanity. Dispensationalism emphasizes a literal interpretation of scripture, particularly Old Testament prophecies about Israel, and distinguishes between God's plan for Israel and his plan for the Church. It also typically includes a premillennial eschatology, meaning a belief in a literal thousand-year reign of Christ on Earth following his second coming, and a Great Tribulation and Rapture of Christians before the expected Second Coming of their Messiah, Jesus. 5 Minutes in Church History podcast at https://amzn.to/3BoedCq Open Book podcast with Stephen Nichols at https://amzn.to/42eiQJL Stephen J. Nichols books at https://amzn.to/3IF19MG Christian Theology books at https://amzn.to/481a31s ENJOY Ad-Free content, Bonus episodes, and Extra materials when joining our growing community on https://patreon.com/markvinet SUPPORT this channel by purchasing any product on Amazon using this FREE entry LINK https://amzn.to/3POlrUD (Amazon gives us credit at NO extra charge to you). Mark Vinet's TIMELINE video channel: https://youtube.com/c/TIMELINE_MarkVinet Mark's History of North America podcast: www.parthenonpodcast.com/history-of-north-america Website: https://markvinet.com/podcast Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mark.vinet.9 Twitter: https://twitter.com/HistoricalJesu Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/denarynovels Mark's books: https://amzn.to/3k8qrGM Audio credits: 5 Minutes in Church History with Steve Nichols: Dispensationalism, 29apr2020 & John Nelson Darby, May 4, 2022. Audio excerpts reproduced under the Fair Use (Fair Dealings) Legal Doctrine for purposes such as criticism, comment, teaching, education, scholarship, research and news reporting.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Who was John Cotton, and why was he such an influential Puritan pastor? Today, Stephen Nichols welcomes Stephen Yuille to discuss several key facts about Cotton's life, ministry, and legacy. Read the transcript: https://ligonier.org/podcasts/5-minutes-in-church-history-with-stephen-nichols/5-things-everyone-should-know-about-john-cotton-a-pastors-heart/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://donate.ligonier.org/ Explore all of our podcasts: https://www.ligonier.org/podcasts
Daily Soap Opera Spoilers by Soap Dirt (GH, Y&R, B&B, and DOOL)
Click to Subscribe: https://bit.ly/Youtube-Subscribe-SoapDirt Days of our Lives predictions indicate that Jeremy Horton, played by Trevor Donovan, will get wounded, while Cat Greene, played by AnnaLynne McCord, will likely resort to questionable tactics, including kissing EJ DiMera, portrayed by Dan Feuerriegel. DOOL predictions hint that Dr. Wilhelm Rolf, played by Richard Wharton, is expected to discover Stephanie Johnson (Abigail Klein) and Jeremy, but might choose to ignore them to avoid jeopardizing his resurrection project with EJ DiMera. Days of our Lives spoilers show that Steve Johnson, played by Stephen Nichols, might encounter a shocking revelation as he spots Owen in the park. Meanwhile, Shawn Brady, enacted by Brandon Beemer, might get wounded in a police shootout, which could eventually lead to a reconciliation with Belle Black, played by Martha Madison. Stephanie and Jeremy's escape might take a dangerous turn, leading to Jeremy getting injured. This incident might prove Jeremy's innocence, leading to much-needed apologies from various characters. DOOL spoilers reveal that Cat Greene might use her chemistry with EJ DiMera to extract a confession. Days of our Lives fans are eagerly anticipating these developments, which promise to add more twists to the intricate plotlines of Salem. This episode was hosted by Belynda Gates-Turner for Soap Dirt. Visit our Days of our Lives section of Soap Dirt: https://soapdirt.com/category/days-of-our-lives/ Listen to our Podcasts: https://soapdirt.podbean.com/ And Check out our always up-to-date Days of our Lives Spoilers page at: https://soapdirt.com/days-of-our-lives-spoilers/ Check Out our Social Media... Twitter: https://twitter.com/SoapDirtTV Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SoapDirt Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/soapdirt/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@soapdirt Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/soapdirt/
Adoniram Judson lived by the conviction that missionary service required total dedication. Today, Stephen Nichols tells the story of how God sustained Judson through danger, imprisonment, and loss to bring the gospel to the people of Burma. Read the transcript: https://ligonier.org/podcasts/5-minutes-in-church-history-with-stephen-nichols/to-burma/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://donate.ligonier.org/ Explore all of our podcasts: https://www.ligonier.org/podcasts
How did a sudden storm and a simple prayer meeting spark a global missions movement? Today, Stephen Nichols tells the story of the Haystack Prayer Meeting and the five college students whose faith helped shape American foreign missions. Read the transcript: https://ligonier.org/podcasts/5-minutes-in-church-history-with-stephen-nichols/the-haystack-prayer-meeting/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://donate.ligonier.org/ Explore all of our podcasts: https://www.ligonier.org/podcasts
What do definitions of words like "truth" and "theology" reveal about a person's beliefs? Today, Stephen Nichols revisits Noah Webster's 1828 dictionary and its deep Christian roots. Read the transcript: https://ligonier.org/podcasts/5-minutes-in-church-history-with-stephen-nichols/noah-webster-more-words/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://donate.ligonier.org/ Explore all of our podcasts: https://www.ligonier.org/podcasts
An encounter with Christ struck Paul blind. When he couldn't see anything else, Paul finally saw Jesus for who He really is. Today, Stephen Nichols revisits the year 401, when Augustine delivered a marvelous sermon on Paul's conversion. Read the transcript: https://ligonier.org/podcasts/5-minutes-in-church-history-with-stephen-nichols/401-again/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://donate.ligonier.org/ Explore all of our podcasts: https://www.ligonier.org/podcasts
Some years stand out in church history: 325, 1054, 1517. But the year 401 is more obscure. Today, Stephen Nichols takes us to a time when Augustine helped Christians in Carthage navigate conflict in the church and pressure from the world. Read the transcript: https://ligonier.org/podcasts/5-minutes-in-church-history-with-stephen-nichols/401/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://donate.ligonier.org/ Explore all of our podcasts: https://www.ligonier.org/podcasts
Who was Noah Webster, beyond the dictionary that bears his name? Today, Stephen Nichols explores Webster's influence on American language and how his Christian convictions shaped both his life and his work. Read the transcript: https://ligonier.org/podcasts/5-minutes-in-church-history-with-stephen-nichols/noah-websters-dictionary/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://donate.ligonier.org/ Explore all of our podcasts: https://www.ligonier.org/podcasts
Within 20 years of Muhammad's death, Islam dominated a region as large as the Roman Empire. Today, W. Robert Godfrey presents the rise of Islam and its relationship to the medieval Christian West. For your donation of any amount, get W. Robert Godfrey's monumental study series, A Survey of Church History, on DVD. You'll also receive lifetime digital access to all 73 video messages and 6 study guides spanning 2,000 years of church history: https://gift.renewingyourmind.org/4573/offer Live outside the U.S. and Canada? Request digital access to every message and the study guides with your donation: https://www.renewingyourmind.org/global Go back in time every Wednesday with Stephen Nichols on the 5 Minutes in Church History podcast: https://5minutesinchurchhistory.com/ Meet Today's Teacher: W. Robert Godfrey is a Ligonier Ministries teaching fellow and chairman of Ligonier Ministries. He is president emeritus and professor emeritus of church history at Westminster Seminary California. Meet the Host: Nathan W. Bingham is vice president of media for Ligonier Ministries, executive producer and host of Renewing Your Mind, and host of the Ask Ligonier podcast. Renewing Your Mind is a donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Explore all of our podcasts: https://www.ligonier.org/podcasts
How did Methodism spread across the American frontier? Today, Stephen Nichols looks at the lives of circuit riders who carried Methodism westward. Read the transcript: https://ligonier.org/podcasts/5-minutes-in-church-history-with-stephen-nichols/early-methodism-circuit-riders-and-camp-meetings/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://donate.ligonier.org/ Explore all of our podcasts: https://www.ligonier.org/podcasts
How did a small group of Oxford students shape a global movement? Today, Stephen Nichols traces the early roots of Methodism, from high moral standards and revival preaching to its growth in Great Britain and colonial America. Read the transcript: https://ligonier.org/podcasts/5-minutes-in-church-history-with-stephen-nichols/early-methodism-beginnings-and-revival/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://donate.ligonier.org/ Explore all of our podcasts: https://www.ligonier.org/podcasts
What prompted Jonathan Edwards to publish a collection of sermons during a period of spiritual decline? Today, Stephen Nichols looks at Edwards' Discourses on Various Important Subjects and the pastoral concerns that shaped this influential book. Read the transcript: https://ligonier.org/podcasts/5-minutes-in-church-history-with-stephen-nichols/the-story-of-5-sermons/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://donate.ligonier.org/ Explore all of our podcasts: https://www.ligonier.org/podcasts
Looking for a meaningful way to start the new year? Today, Stephen Nichols offers five practical suggestions for diving deeper into church history in 2026. Read the transcript: https://ligonier.org/podcasts/5-minutes-in-church-history-with-stephen-nichols/church-history-resolutions-for-the-new-year/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://donate.ligonier.org/ Explore all of our podcasts: https://www.ligonier.org/podcasts
Why is the incarnation at the center of our hope as Christians? Today, Stephen Nichols looks to Jonathan Edwards' sermon on Revelation 5, reflecting on the humility and majesty of Jesus' birth. Read the transcript: https://ligonier.org/podcasts/5-minutes-in-church-history-with-stephen-nichols/christmas-in-new-england/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://donate.ligonier.org/ Explore all of our podcasts: https://www.ligonier.org/podcasts
In the 1700s, Delaware witnessed powerful movements that shaped American Christianity. Today, Stephen Nichols continues exploring this colony's church history, from George Whitefield's Great Awakening preaching to the rise of Methodism. Read the transcript: https://ligonier.org/podcasts/5-minutes-in-church-history-with-stephen-nichols/a-little-church-history-of-a-middle-colony-the-first-great-awakening/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://donate.ligonier.org/ Explore all of our podcasts: https://www.ligonier.org/podcasts
We've been hacked. Everything is down. Or more mundane - there was a power surge and 5% of our cyber gear is fried. How do we get back into operation fastest? Stephen Nichols of Acronis joins us to look at rapid recovery of OT systems - from the mundane to the arcane.
We've been hacked. Everything is down. Or more mundane - there was a power surge and 5% of our cyber gear is fried. How do we get back into operation fastest? Stephen Nichols of Acronis joins us to look at rapid recovery of OT systems - from the mundane to the arcane.
Though Delaware is small, its church history is rich. Today, Stephen Nichols explores how this middle colony was shaped by William Penn's vision of religious freedom, Anglican and Swedish influences, and enduring places of worship that still tell the story of faith in early America. Read the transcript: https://ligonier.org/podcasts/5-minutes-in-church-history-with-stephen-nichols/a-little-church-history-of-a-middle-colony-early-influences/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://donate.ligonier.org/ Explore all of our podcasts: https://www.ligonier.org/podcasts
On November 5, 1605, a plot to destroy England's Parliament was foiled. Today, Stephen Nichols reflects on how this event has reminded generations to give glory to God for His providential deliverance. Read the transcript: https://ligonier.org/podcasts/5-minutes-in-church-history-with-stephen-nichols/gunpowder-and-a-proclamation/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://donate.ligonier.org/ Explore all of our podcasts: https://www.ligonier.org/podcasts
What shaped the Thanksgiving holiday as we know it? Today, Stephen Nichols explores the holiday's roots in colonial America, significant presidential proclamations, and enduring reflections on gratitude drawn from great figures in church history. Read the transcript: https://ligonier.org/podcasts/5-minutes-in-church-history-with-stephen-nichols/thanksgiving-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
Send us a textGUEST: DR. STEPHEN NICHOLS, president, Reformation Bible CollegeThe dictionary defines theology as the study of God and religious belief. It may sound intellectual and academic but in reality everyone has beliefs about God and religion. The real question is whether those beliefs accurately represent God based on the standard—His inspired Word.Every few years, Ligonier Ministries conducts The State of Theology survey, as they put it, “to take America's theological temperature, revealing what people actually believe—both outside and inside the church. Our goal is to diagnose prominent errors and to prescribe the cure: the clear teaching of sound doctrine.”The State of Theology survey contains 35 statements that over 3000 Americans from all walks of life answer.Dr. Stephen Nichols, chief academic officer at Ligonier Ministries and president of Reformation Bible College, joins us to discuss some of the key findings of the survey with regard to the evangelical church and the general public. Because the real point of theology is not just to study God but to know, love, and worship Him!PROGRAM NOTES:Request a copy of the DECEMBER issue of the TCW Journal (before Nov 24).Manger in Danger — Available for a donation of $30 of more!
John Newton preached three sermons on the Hallelujah Chorus from Handel's Messiah. Today, Stephen Nichols explores how Newton used these sermons to remind believers that Christ reigns as King of kings and calls all people to repent and believe the gospel. Read the transcript: https://ligonier.org/podcasts/5-minutes-in-church-history-with-stephen-nichols/3-sermons-on-the-hallelujah-chorus/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://donate.ligonier.org/ Explore all of our podcasts: https://www.ligonier.org/podcasts
Though few know his name, many know his work. Today, Stephen Nichols introduces Charles Jennens, who compiled the biblical texts for Handel's Messiah to proclaim Christ's glory and defend the truth against deism. Read the transcript: https://ligonier.org/podcasts/5-minutes-in-church-history-with-stephen-nichols/charles-jennens-libretto/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://donate.ligonier.org/ Explore all of our podcasts: https://www.ligonier.org/podcasts
Even with Christmas approaching, it's easy to lose focus on the Son of God who took on flesh to save us. Today, Nathan W. Bingham is joined by Stephen Nichols to discuss his book Peace, created to rekindle wonder at the Savior's incarnation. For your donation of any amount, get Stephen Nichols' heirloom book, Peace: Classic Readings for Christmas: https://gift.renewingyourmind.org/4398/offer Live outside the U.S. and Canada? Request the Peace ebook with your donation: https://www.renewingyourmind.org/global Are you prepared for the spiritual battle unfolding before us? Register today for Ligonier's free online event, Fighting the Good Fight of Faith, streaming November 18: https://www.ligonier.org/goodfight Meet Today's Speakers: Stephen Nichols is president of Reformation Bible College, chief academic officer for Ligonier Ministries, and a Ligonier Ministries teaching fellow. Nathan W. Bingham is vice president of media for Ligonier Ministries, executive producer and host of Renewing Your Mind, and host of the Ask Ligonier podcast. Renewing Your Mind is a donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Explore all of our podcasts: https://www.ligonier.org/podcasts
Amid persecution and turmoil, Cyprian of Carthage stood firm in his faith and led the church with wisdom. Today, Stephen Nichols reflects on Cyprian's call for unity, repentance, and steadfast faith in times of suffering. Read the transcript: https://ligonier.org/podcasts/5-minutes-in-church-history-with-stephen-nichols/cyprian-of-carthage-crisis-in-the-3rd-century/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://donate.ligonier.org/ Explore all of our podcasts: https://www.ligonier.org/podcasts
The third century brought afflictions, instability, and opposition for Christians in the Roman Empire. Today, Stephen Nichols examines how the Lord preserved His church in the midst of these adversities. Read the transcript: https://ligonier.org/podcasts/5-minutes-in-church-history-with-stephen-nichols/crisis-in-the-3rd-century/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://donate.ligonier.org/ Explore all of our podcasts: https://www.ligonier.org/podcasts
What can archaeology teach us about the world of the Bible and the early church? Today, Stephen Nichols highlights how archeological discoveries bring historical context to the life and faith of God's people. Read the transcript: https://ligonier.org/podcasts/5-minutes-in-church-history-with-stephen-nichols/digging-deeper-5-things-about-archeology/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://donate.ligonier.org/ Explore all of our podcasts: https://www.ligonier.org/podcasts
In AD 230, Christians in Galilee left behind a remarkable testimony to their faith in Christ. Today, Stephen Nichols examines the Megiddo Mosaic, uncovering five insights it provides into early church life. Read the transcript: https://ligonier.org/podcasts/5-minutes-in-church-history-with-stephen-nichols/5-things-about-the-megiddo-mosaic/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://donate.ligonier.org/ Explore all of our podcasts: https://www.ligonier.org/podcasts
What did the earliest Christian churches look like? Today, Stephen Nichols traces their history and introduces the Megiddo Mosaic, the floor of one of the oldest church buildings ever discovered. Read the transcript: https://ligonier.org/podcasts/5-minutes-in-church-history-with-stephen-nichols/the-earliest-church-yet/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://donate.ligonier.org/ Explore all of our podcasts: https://www.ligonier.org/podcasts
Why did many of the Reformers identify the pope as the antichrist? Today, Stephen Nichols continues his survey of Christian views on the antichrist and interpretations of the number 666, moving from the Reformation to the present day. Read the transcript: https://ligonier.org/podcasts/5-minutes-in-church-history-with-stephen-nichols/naming-the-antichrist-reformation-and-modern-views/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://donate.ligonier.org/ Explore all of our podcasts: https://www.ligonier.org/podcasts
Who is the antichrist? The beast? The man of lawlessness? Today on episode 666 of the podcast, Stephen Nichols explores how several church fathers and medieval theologians wrestled with these questions—and whom they named as the antichrist. Read the transcript: https://ligonier.org/podcasts/5-minutes-in-church-history-with-stephen-nichols/naming-the-antichrist-ancient-and-medieval-views/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://donate.ligonier.org/ Explore all of our podcasts: https://www.ligonier.org/podcasts
Have you read My Utmost for His Highest? And did you know it was published 10 years after its author died? Today, Stephen Nichols tells the story of Oswald Chambers and his wife Biddy, whose copious notes from Oswald's sermons turned into more than 50 books. Read the transcript: https://ligonier.org/podcasts/5-minutes-in-church-history-with-stephen-nichols/oswald-chambers/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://donate.ligonier.org/ Explore all of our podcasts: https://www.ligonier.org/podcasts
In addition to being our Redeemer, Jesus is our perfect example for the Christian life. Today, Stephen Nichols considers a stirring sermon that B.B. Warfield preached on the humble, self-sacrificial life that Christ modeled for us. Read the transcript: https://ligonier.org/podcasts/5-minutes-in-church-history-with-stephen-nichols/warfield-on-imitating-the-incarnation/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://donate.ligonier.org/ Explore all of our podcasts: https://www.ligonier.org/podcasts
What can sermons from over a century ago teach us today? Today, Stephen Nichols introduces The Savior of the World by B.B. Warfield, a collection of Christ-centered sermons that invite us to marvel at the good news of the gospel. Read the transcript: https://ligonier.org/podcasts/5-minutes-in-church-history-with-stephen-nichols/some-sermons-of-warfield/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://donate.ligonier.org/ Explore all of our podcasts: https://www.ligonier.org/podcasts
What is sin, and why must we take it seriously? Today, Stephen Nichols highlights Not the Way It's Supposed to Be by Cornelius Plantinga Jr., a book that explores the biblical view of sin and our deep need for God's redeeming grace. Read the transcript: https://ligonier.org/podcasts/5-minutes-in-church-history-with-stephen-nichols/a-good-book-on-a-bad-subject/ 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 live in community with other Christians? Today, Stephen Nichols explores the wisdom of Dietrich Bonhoeffer's Life Together, offering insights into how believers grow together in grace under God's Word. Read the transcript: https://ligonier.org/podcasts/5-minutes-in-church-history-with-stephen-nichols/life-together-2025/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://donate.ligonier.org/ Explore all of our podcasts: https://www.ligonier.org/podcasts
There are many good things that you can pursue in life. But what is the ultimate good—the highest good? Today, Stephen Nichols looks to the joy-filled life and writing of Jonathan Edwards to answer this question. Get Stephen Nichols' teaching series about Jonathan Edwards on DVD for your donation of any amount. We'll include lifetime digital access to all six messages and the study guide: https://gift.renewingyourmind.org/4255/offer Live outside the U.S. and Canada? Request digital access to the Jonathan Edwards teaching series and study guide with your donation: https://www.renewingyourmind.org/global Meet Today's Teacher: Stephen Nichols is president of Reformation Bible College, chief academic officer for Ligonier Ministries, and a Ligonier Ministries teaching fellow. Meet the Host: Nathan W. Bingham is vice president of media for Ligonier Ministries, executive producer and host of Renewing Your Mind, and host of the Ask Ligonier podcast. Renewing Your Mind is a donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Explore all of our podcasts: https://www.ligonier.org/podcasts
Many consider Jonathan Edwards the greatest theologian that America has ever produced. Today, Stephen Nichols illuminates the details of Edwards' life—good and bad—so we might better understand how God shaped him for His service. Get Stephen Nichols' teaching series about Jonathan Edwards on DVD for your donation of any amount. We'll include lifetime digital access to all six messages and the study guide: https://gift.renewingyourmind.org/4255/offer Live outside the U.S. and Canada? Request digital access to the Jonathan Edwards teaching series and study guide with your donation: https://www.renewingyourmind.org/global Meet Today's Teacher: Stephen Nichols is president of Reformation Bible College, chief academic officer for Ligonier Ministries, and a Ligonier Ministries teaching fellow. Meet the Host: Nathan W. Bingham is vice president of media for Ligonier Ministries, executive producer and host of Renewing Your Mind, and host of the Ask Ligonier podcast. Renewing Your Mind is a donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Explore all of our podcasts: https://www.ligonier.org/podcasts
Why study church history? Today, Stephen Nichols celebrates the twelfth anniversary of 5 Minutes in Church History by reflecting on twelve ways church history has enriched his faith and deepened his understanding of God's work through the ages. Read the transcript: https://ligonier.org/podcasts/5-minutes-in-church-history-with-stephen-nichols/happy-12th-anniversary/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://donate.ligonier.org/ Explore all of our podcasts: https://www.ligonier.org/podcasts
Is salvation the work of God alone? Or can we earn forgiveness by partnering with His grace? Today, Stephen Nichols joins Nathan W. Bingham to discuss Martin Luther's thunderous defense of the gospel in his classic book The Bondage of the Will. Request Ligonier's special 500th-anniversary of The Bondage of the Will book by Martin Luther with your donation of any amount. We'll include lifetime digital access to R.C. Sproul's teaching series Willing to Believe and the companion study guide: https://gift.renewingyourmind.org/4167/donate Live outside the U.S. and Canada? With your donation, get the ebook edition of The Bondage of the Will and lifetime digital access to the Willing to Believe teaching series and study guide: https://www.renewingyourmind.org/global Meet Today's Teacher: Stephen Nichols is president of Reformation Bible College, chief academic officer for Ligonier Ministries, and a Ligonier Ministries teaching fellow. He is host of the podcasts 5 Minutes in Church History and Open Book. Meet the Host: Nathan W. Bingham is vice president of ministry engagement for Ligonier Ministries, executive producer and host of Renewing Your Mind, and host of the Ask Ligonier podcast. Renewing Your Mind is a donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Explore all of our podcasts: https://www.ligonier.org/podcasts