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.

Athens in Church History
February 19, 2025 Geographical PerspectivesAthens 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.
Istanbul: The Hagia Irene
February 12, 2025 The Byzantine EastConstantine’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.
Istanbul: The Hagia Sophia
February 5, 2025 The Byzantine EastEmperor 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.
Louis IX
January 29, 2025 BiographyWho 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.
American Christian Publishing: 20th-Century Contributions
January 22, 2025 American Church HistoryChristian 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.
American Christian Publishing: 19th-Century Roots
January 15, 2025 American Church HistoryHow 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.
Christian Radio
January 8, 2025 The Twentieth CenturyChristian 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.
Happy New Year?
January 1, 2025 The ReformationWhen 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.
Christmas with Bonhoeffer
December 25, 2024 The Twentieth CenturyWhat 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.
Bible Camps
December 18, 2024 American Church HistoryBible 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 twentieth century.
Bonhoeffer in 5 Sayings
December 11, 2024 TheologiansDietrich 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.
Another Thanksgiving Sermon
December 4, 2024 American Church HistoryIn 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.
Thanksgiving Day Sermons
November 27, 2024 American Church HistoryWhat 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.
What I Want for Christmas: Influential Books
November 20, 2024 Christian ClassicsWhat’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.
What I Want for Christmas: Classic Writings
November 13, 2024 Fiction and LiteratureWhat 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.
Classical Tunes for Classic Hymns
November 6, 2024 MusicMany 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.
Luther in 5 Sayings: Defender of Scripture
October 30, 2024 TheologiansAt 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.”
Luther in 5 Sayings: Convicted Monk
October 23, 2024 TheologiansMartin 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.
Zion Presbyterian Church
October 16, 2024 American Church HistoryZion 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.
Edwards in 5 Sayings: Key Doctrines
October 9, 2024 TheologiansJonathan 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.
Edwards in 5 Sayings: American Theologian
October 2, 2024 TheologiansJonathan 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.
Machen in 5 Sayings: Defender of Orthodoxy
September 25, 2024 TheologiansDuring 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.
Machen in 5 Sayings: Courageous Scholar
September 18, 2024 TheologiansJ. 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.
R.C. Sproul in 5 Sayings
September 11, 2024 TheologiansThroughout 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.