5 Minutes in Church History Episodes
Travel back in time with Stephen Nichols to look at the people, events, and places that have shaped the story of Christianity. This podcast offers an accessible glimpse into how God has worked in the church and how this can encourage us today.

Digging Deeper: 5 Things About Archeology
October 22, 2025 The Ancient ChurchWhat 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.
5 Things About the Megiddo Mosaic
October 15, 2025 The Ancient ChurchIn 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.
The Earliest Church Yet
October 8, 2025 The Ancient ChurchWhat 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.
Naming the Antichrist: Reformation and Modern Views
October 1, 2025 The Return of ChristWhy 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.
Naming the Antichrist: Ancient and Medieval Views
September 24, 2025 The Return of ChristWho 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.
Oswald Chambers
September 17, 2025 TheologiansHave 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.
Warfield on “Imitating the Incarnation”
September 10, 2025 The Twentieth CenturyIn 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.
Some Sermons of Warfield
September 3, 2025 The Twentieth CenturyWhat 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.
A Good Book on a Bad Subject
August 27, 2025 The Twentieth CenturyWhat 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.
Life Together
August 20, 2025 Christian ClassicsWhat 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.
Happy 12th Anniversary
August 13, 2025 General Church HistoryWhy 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.
Ancient Wisdom
August 6, 2025 Christian ClassicsWhat’s on your reading list? Today, Stephen Nichols introduces On the Incarnation by Athanasius, a timeless book defending the deity of Christ and the hope of the resurrection.
A Good Atlas
July 30, 2025 General Reference WorksWhat can a map teach us about the Bible? Today, Stephen Nichols explains how understanding Scripture’s geography can deepen our grasp of redemptive history.
The Works of Edwards in 2 Volumes
July 23, 2025 TheologiansJonathan Edwards’ writings reveal profound insights into theology, philosophy, and the human condition. Today, Stephen Nichols explores the rich content of Edwards’ works and explains why his writings are still relevant to the church today.
Edwards’ First Published Sermon
July 16, 2025 TheologiansIn his first published sermon, Jonathan Edwards emphasized the glory of God in redemption. Today, Stephen Nichols revisits this early message to reflect on our need for dependence on Christ and the grace that secures our salvation.
Deserted Island with Joel Kim: Theology and Pastoral Wisdom
July 9, 2025 Christian ClassicsWhat books have most shaped your faith? Today, Stephen Nichols continues his conversation with Joel Kim as he adds more titles to his deserted island library, each offering timeless encouragement for the Christian life.
Deserted Island with Joel Kim: History and Leadership
July 2, 2025 TheologiansIf you could take only five books to a deserted island, which would you choose? Today, Joel Kim joins Stephen Nichols to share titles he’d bring, and what they reveal about leadership, perseverance, and history.
Derek Thomas on “The Doctor”
June 25, 2025 TheologiansWhat makes a great preacher? Today, Stephen Nichols is joined by Derek Thomas to reflect on the life and legacy of Martyn Lloyd-Jones, a medical-doctor-turned-pastor whose powerful preaching marked the church in the 20th century.
Derek Thomas on the Welsh Revival
June 18, 2025 Geographical PerspectivesWhat impact did the 1904 Welsh Revival have on the church and on culture? Today, Stephen Nichols is joined by Derek Thomas to reflect on this remarkable season of gospel awakening in Wales and how its legacy endures today.
Augustine’s Friend
June 11, 2025 TheologiansAugustine’s legacy is well known, but what about his closest friend? Today, Stephen Nichols introduces us to Alypius, a faithful companion who walked alongside Augustine from their days as students to bishops in neighboring towns.
Brothers in Church History
June 4, 2025 BiographyBehind several well-known names in church history stand faithful brothers whose stories are often untold. Today, Stephen Nichols shares how these men, though less recognized, played meaningful roles in the life of the church.
Missionary Kids in Stockbridge
May 28, 2025 Missionary BiographyWhat 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.
Trending in the 18th Century
May 21, 2025 The Eighteenth CenturyWhat 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.
What Everyone Needs to Know about John Witherspoon
May 14, 2025 TheologiansJohn 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.