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.

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.
Deserted Island with Kevin DeYoung
May 7, 2025 Christian ClassicsWhat 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.
Raymund Lull: Medieval Missionary
April 30, 2025 Missionary BiographyRaymond 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.
Meet Dr. Paul Brand
April 23, 2025 Missionary BiographyRaised 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.
The Zwickau Prophets
April 16, 2025 The ReformationIn 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.
The Flushing Remonstrance
April 9, 2025 American Church HistoryOn 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.
Isaac Watts in 5 Sayings
April 2, 2025 TheologiansIsaac 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.
The Weight of Glory
March 26, 2025 The Twentieth CenturyWhat 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.
Rhodes in History
March 19, 2025 Geographical PerspectivesIf 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.
Charles Hodge: What Is Saving Faith?
March 12, 2025 Historical TheologyWhat 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.
Charles Hodge: What Is Systematic Theology?
March 5, 2025 TheologiansWhat 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.
Athenagoras
February 26, 2025 BiographyIn 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.
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.