
5 Minutes in Church History with Stephen Nichols
This weekly podcast provides an informal and informative look at church history. Join us each week as we take a brief break from the present to go exploring the past. Travel back in time as we look at the people, events, and even the places that have shaped the story of Christianity. Each episode offers an easily digestible glimpse of how the eternal, unchangeable God has worked in the church over prior generations and how this can encourage us today. This is our story—our family history.
Latest episodes

May 21, 2025 • 5min
Trending in the 18th Century
Dive into the dynamic 18th century, where religious fervor surged with the Great Awakening. Explore the rise of pietism and the rich tapestry of English hymnody, showcasing influential figures like George Whitefield and Isaac Watts. Discover how this era laid foundational stones for global missions, even amidst the challenges of Enlightenment thinking. It's a captivating look back at how faith transformed lives and inspired a worldwide movement.

May 14, 2025 • 5min
What Everyone Needs to Know about John Witherspoon
Discover the fascinating life of John Witherspoon, a pivotal figure in American Presbyterianism. Learn about his journey from Scotland to becoming the only clergyman to sign the Declaration of Independence. Dive into his significant contributions during the Revolutionary War and his role as president of Princeton University. The discussion highlights his impact as a theologian and patriot, showcasing how his legacy continues to shape American religious thought.

May 7, 2025 • 5min
Deserted Island with Kevin DeYoung
What 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. Read the transcript: https://ligonier.org/podcasts/5-minutes-in-church-history-with-stephen-nichols/deserted-island-with-kevin-deyoung/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://donate.ligonier.org/ Explore all of our podcasts: https://www.ligonier.org/podcasts

Apr 30, 2025 • 5min
Raymund Lull: Medieval Missionary
Raymond 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. Read the transcript: https://ligonier.org/podcasts/5-minutes-in-church-history-with-stephen-nichols/raymund-lull-medieval-missionary/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://donate.ligonier.org/ Explore all of our podcasts: https://www.ligonier.org/podcasts

Apr 23, 2025 • 5min
Meet Dr. Paul Brand
Discover the inspiring journey of Dr. Paul Brand, a missionary doctor whose compassion transformed the lives of leprosy patients in India. He blended his medical expertise with a deep sense of care, reflecting the heart of Christ in his work. His pioneering research on nerve damage not only advanced healthcare but also emphasized the importance of serving the marginalized. Immerse yourself in a tale of resilience and humanity, exploring how one man's dedication reshaped the understanding of compassion in medicine.

Apr 16, 2025 • 5min
The Zwickau Prophets
In 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. Read the transcript: https://ligonier.org/podcasts/5-minutes-in-church-history-with-stephen-nichols/the-zwickau-prophets/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://donate.ligonier.org/ Explore all of our podcasts: https://www.ligonier.org/podcasts

Apr 9, 2025 • 5min
The Flushing Remonstrance
On 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. Read the transcript: https://ligonier.org/podcasts/5-minutes-in-church-history-with-stephen-nichols/the-flushing-remonstrance A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://donate.ligonier.org/ Explore all of our podcasts: https://www.ligonier.org/podcasts

Apr 2, 2025 • 5min
Isaac Watts in 5 Sayings
Isaac 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. Read the transcript: https://ligonier.org/podcasts/5-minutes-in-church-history-with-stephen-nichols/isaac-watts-in-5-sayings A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://donate.ligonier.org/ Explore all of our podcasts: https://www.ligonier.org/podcasts

Mar 26, 2025 • 5min
The Weight of Glory
What 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. Read the transcript: https://ligonier.org/podcasts/5-minutes-in-church-history-with-stephen-nichols/the-weight-of-glory A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://donate.ligonier.org/ Explore all of our podcasts: https://www.ligonier.org/podcasts

Mar 19, 2025 • 5min
Rhodes in History
If 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. Read the transcript: https://ligonier.org/podcasts/5-minutes-in-church-history-with-stephen-nichols/rhodes-in-history/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://donate.ligonier.org/ Explore all of our podcasts: https://www.ligonier.org/podcasts