5 Minutes in Church History with Stephen Nichols

Historian and English mysticism expert Stephen Nichols delves into the life and pilgrimage of Margery Kempe, a daring English mystic from the Middle Ages. The podcast discusses her mystical experiences, epic pilgrimage to Jerusalem, encounters with obstacles, and spiritual growth across Europe and the Middle East.

Guest James Woodrow, a controversial figure in the 1880s known for his beliefs on evolution, discusses the clash between evolutionary theory and biblical beliefs at Columbia Theological Seminary, leading to his dismissal and the closure of the seminary.

Explore Charles Spurgeon's escapes to the woods for peace and reflection, his love for nature, and the rejuvenating effects it had on him. Learn about his admiration for the support of beech trees and the importance of scripture in finding solace amidst a busy life.

Early church historian Stephen Nichols discusses the poet Caedmon who was miraculously gifted with a poet's hand at a monastery. The episode reflects on significant events in the year 600 A.D., theology, poetry, angelic history, and celebrates the milestone of 600 episodes.

Guest John Tweeddale discusses the life of John Owen, a prolific writer and renowned Puritan theologian. Topics include Owen's Puritan identity, extensive literary output, notable works like 'Death of Death and the Death of Christ', his political involvement, beliefs in religious tolerance, interactions with influential figures, and his death on a noteworthy day in Puritan history.

Vice president of academics at Reformation Bible College, John Tweeddale, shares summer reading recommendations including works by Martin Luther, Hermann Bavink, and Carl Truman. The suggestions cover biography, theology, history, devotional literature, and fiction, offering a diverse range of genres for seasonal enjoyment.

When political unrest drove John Owen to a small English village, he began ministering at the local church. Today, Stephen Nichols tells us about the two catechisms that Owen wrote to serve Christians of all ages in his congregation. Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/owens-two-catechisms/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://www.ligonier.org/donate/ Explore all of our podcasts: https://www.ligonier.org/podcasts

John Calvin’s Institutes of the Christian Religion have been cherished by students of theology for centuries. Today, Stephen Nichols opens the Institutes and points us to five portions of this influential book. Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/5-cites-in-calvins-institutes/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://www.ligonier.org/donate/ Explore all of our podcasts: https://www.ligonier.org/podcasts

What sites should you visit if you were to take a trip to Geneva, Switzerland? Today, Stephen Nichols points out five landmarks from this city filled with a treasury of history from John Calvin's life. Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/5-sites-in-calvins-geneva/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://www.ligonier.org/donate/ Explore all of our podcasts: https://www.ligonier.org/podcasts

Over the course of his life, Anselm took five important journeys. Today, Stephen Nichols takes us on the road with Anselm, pointing out notable events from this medieval theologian's travels. Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/travels-with-anselm/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://www.ligonier.org/donate/ Explore all of our podcasts: https://www.ligonier.org/podcasts