Church History

By Lorelee Siemens

Delve into the captivating narrative of 'The Church History Podcast,' a remarkable journey that unfolds the history of God's Church from the time of Jesus Christ to the present day. Hosted by Lorelee ... more

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FAQs about Church History:

How many episodes does Church History have?

The podcast currently has 249 episodes available.

Church History episodes:

November 17, 2025 The Heretic of Peace: Tolstoy's Christian Communism
In this episode, we delve into the complex life of Leo Tolstoy, a man who navigated the intersection of faith and philosophy. From his noble beginnings to his experiences in the Crimean War, Tolstoy's journey encompasses the struggles of morality, the impact of war, and his eventual excommunication from the Russian Orthodox Church.
Join Lorelee Siemens as she unpacks how Tolstoy sought to merge Christian teachings with socialist ideals, challenging the status quo and igniting debates that resonate even today. Explore how his legacy continues to influence discussions about faith, power, and the fundamental nature of humanity.
Chapters:
(00:42) Today, there are many in the church trying to combine Christianity with communism
(04:03) Leo Tolstoy blurred the lines between Christian morality and socialist ideals
(08:01) Count Leo Tolstoy's Crimean War experiences changed him forever
(14:06) Tolstoy's philosophy is radical and leaves out the deity of Christ
Episode Sponsor:
The church is corrupted https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DKFSXQTR
The church is born https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09BGLZ7C1
Alexander Henry Coffee https://alexanderhenrycoffee.ca Use CODE: churchhistory for 20% off
Links:
https://linktr.ee/loreleesiemens
An Africa mission I recommend: https://globaltrain.org
If you enjoyed this episode, listen to these as well:
The Church's role in World War 1: https://loreleesiemens.com/media/771671-3210084-35078519/faith-and-fury-the-churchs-role-in-world-war-i
Defiance in Darkness: The Underground Church of Russia https://loreleesiemens.com/media/771671-3210084-35067672/defiance-in-darkness-the-underground-church-of-russia
How Faith Survived When Empires Fell https://loreleesiemens.com/media/771671-3210084-35063416/how-faith-survived-when-empires-fell
The History of Hymns with Lorelee Siemens: https://loreleesiemens.com/podcasts/hymns
...more
20min
November 10, 2025 The Doctor Who Became a Preacher: Martin Lloyd Jones
In this episode, we delve into the life and legacy of David Martin Lloyd-Jones, a preacher who profoundly shaped the spiritual landscape of London during the tumultuous era of World War II.
Host Lorelee Siemens takes us through Lloyd Jones' journey from a successful medical career to a life devoted to preaching the gospel amidst the chaos of war. Discover how his powerful sermons and unwavering faith brought hope to a broken city and how his teachings continue to resonate today.
Episode Sponsor:
The church is corrupted https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DKFSXQTR
The church is born https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09BGLZ7C1
Alexander Henry Coffee https://alexanderhenrycoffee.ca Use CODE: churchhistory for 20% off
Links:
https://linktr.ee/loreleesiemens
An Africa mission I recommend: https://globaltrain.org
If you enjoyed this episode, listen to these as well:
The Church role in world war 1: https://loreleesiemens.com/media/771671-3210084-35078519/faith-and-fury-the-churchs-role-in-world-war-i
One Story Among Two Million: Aurora's Journey https://loreleesiemens.com/media/771671-3210084-35081073/one-story-among-two-million-auroras-journey
Armenian Genocide: Aurora's Fight for Freedom https://loreleesiemens.com/media/771671-3210084-35084508/armenian-genocide-auroras-fight-for-freedom

The History of Hymns with Lorelee Siemens: https://loreleesiemens.com/podcasts/hymns
...more
13min
November 04, 2025 Soup, Faith, and Courage: The Story of Sarah Broom McNaughton
In this gripping episode, we journey back to Antwerp in 1914, where we meet Sarah Broom McNaughton, a woman who defied societal norms to serve on the front lines of war.
Join Lorelee Siemens as she narrates Sarah's transformation from a successful novelist to a dedicated humanitarian amidst the chaos of World War I.
Discover how Sarah's unwavering faith and compassion in the face of destruction became her greatest acts of courage.
This episode is a testament to the power of service and the call to action that resonates through time.

Chapters:
(00:52) Church Sings is a new book about church songs
(01:53) Sarah McNaughton volunteered to go to the front lines during WWI
(10:29) Lorelee Siemens wishes you a blessed week ahead
Episode Sponsor:
The church is corrupted https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DKFSXQTR
The church is born
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09BGLZ7C1
Alexander Henry Coffee https://alexanderhenrycoffee.ca Use CODE: churchhistory for 20% off
Links:
https://linktr.ee/loreleesiemens
An Africa mission I recommend: https://globaltrain.org
If you enjoyed this episode, listen to these as well:
The Church role in world war 1: https://loreleesiemens.com/media/771671-3210084-35078519/faith-and-fury-the-churchs-role-in-world-war-i
One Story Among Two Million: Aurora's Journey https://loreleesiemens.com/media/771671-3210084-35081073/one-story-among-two-million-auroras-journey
Armenian Genocide: Aurora's Fight for Freedom https://loreleesiemens.com/media/771671-3210084-35084508/armenian-genocide-auroras-fight-for-freedom

The History of Hymns with Lorelee Siemens: https://loreleesiemens.com/podcasts/hymns
...more
12min
October 28, 2025 Confronting Empire: The Legacy of Francis James Grimke
In this episode, we explore the life and legacy of Francis James Grimke, a prophetic pastor and social critic during a tumultuous time in American history. As America entered World War I, Grimke's voice stood out, urging the church to confront issues of war and racial injustice through the lens of the gospel.
Join us as we delve into Grimke's journey from slavery to prominence as a minister, and discover how he navigated the complexities of faith, patriotism, and justice during the early 20th century.
Chapters:
(01:33) Francis Grimke was born to a slaveholding family in South Carolina
(08:14) Pastor Grimke preached on Christianity and Race Prejudice in 1910
(09:57) Pastor Francis Grimsby preached against war and racism during 1919
(17:12) Francis Grimke preached and preached until he died in 1937
Episode Sponsor:
The church is corrupted https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DKFSXQTR
The church is born https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09BGLZ7C1
Alexander Henry Coffee https://alexanderhenrycoffee.ca Use CODE: churchhistory for 20% off
Links:
https://linktr.ee/loreleesiemens
An Africa mission I recommend: https://globaltrain.org
If you enjoyed this episode, listen to these as well:
The Church role in world war 1: https://loreleesiemens.com/media/771671-3210084-35078519/faith-and-fury-the-churchs-role-in-world-war-i
Chasing Joy: The Transformative Journey of C.S. Lewis: https://loreleesiemens.com/media/771671-3210084-35089061/chasing-joy-the-transformative-journey-of-c-s-lewis
The History of Hymns with Lorelee Siemens: https://loreleesiemens.com/podcasts/hymns
...more
0min
October 21, 2025 Between Faith and Power: The Story of Lawrence of Arabia
In this episode of our series, the Church at War, Lorelee Siemens delves into the extraordinary life of Thomas Edward Lawrence, better known as Lawrence of Arabia.
From his humble beginnings in Oxford to his pivotal role in the Arab revolt during World War I, Lawrence's journey is a profound exploration of faith, ambition, and the complexities of empire. Discover how his upbringing shaped his convictions and how he navigated the tensions between loyalty to his faith and the political machinations of his time.
This episode uncovers the man behind the legend, revealing the struggles and triumphs that defined his legacy.
Chapters:
(00:00) Thomas Edward Lynn Lawrence believed faith could rebuild nations even as war tore them apart
(04:07) British archaeologist Lawrence walked a thousand miles across Ottoman Syria in 1909
(08:50) Lawrence dreamed of an Arab kingdom free from empire during World War I
(16:06) Thomas Edward Lawrence lived between two worlds: faith and doubt
Episode Sponsor:
The church is corrupted https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DKFSXQTR
The church is born https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09BGLZ7C1
Alexander Henry Coffee https://alexanderhenrycoffee.ca Use CODE: churchhistory for 20% off
Links:
https://linktr.ee/loreleesiemens
An Africa mission I recommend: https://globaltrain.org
If you enjoyed this episode, listen to these as well:
The Church role in world war 1: https://loreleesiemens.com/media/771671-3210084-35078519/faith-and-fury-the-churchs-role-in-world-war-i
The People’s Crusade https://loreleesiemens.com/media/771671-3210084-2110755/peoples-crusade
Chasing Joy: The Transformative Journey of C.S. Lewis: https://loreleesiemens.com/media/771671-3210084-35089061/chasing-joy-the-transformative-journey-of-c-s-lewis

The History of Hymns with Lorelee Siemens: https://loreleesiemens.com/podcasts/hymns
...more
19min
October 06, 2025 The Courageous Heart of Edith Cavell: A Nurse’s Faith Amidst the Chaos of War
In this compelling episode, we delve into the extraordinary life of Edith Cavell, a British nurse whose unwavering faith and courage during World War I made her a symbol of compassion and sacrifice. As she navigated the challenges of running a hospital in occupied Belgium, Edith chose to help Allied soldiers escape, putting her life on the line for her convictions. Join us as we explore her journey from a quiet upbringing in England to becoming a martyr and a hero, and reflect on the profound impact her actions had on the world.
Chapters:
(01:25) Edith Cavell was born in Norwich, England, to evangelical parents
(06:08) Edith Carvel transforms nursing in Belgium with revolutionary reforms
(09:19) Edith Cavell shelters wounded soldiers during World War I in Belgium
(16:00) Edith Cavell was executed for aiding German soldiers during WWI
Episode Sponsor:
The church is corrupted https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DKFSXQTR
The church is born https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09BGLZ7C1
Alexander Henry Coffee https://alexanderhenrycoffee.ca Use CODE: churchhistory for 20% off
Links:
https://linktr.ee/loreleesiemens
An Africa mission I recommend: https://globaltrain.org
If you enjoyed this episode, listen to these as well:
The Church role in world war 1: https://loreleesiemens.com/media/771671-3210084-35078519/faith-and-fury-the-churchs-role-in-world-war-i
Chasing Joy: The Transformative Journey of C.S. Lewis: https://loreleesiemens.com/media/771671-3210084-35089061/chasing-joy-the-transformative-journey-of-c-s-lewis
The History of Hymns with Lorelee Siemens: https://loreleesiemens.com/podcasts/hymns
...more
21min
September 22, 2025 From Stephen to Charlie: A Journey of Martyrdom
In this episode, we reflect on the legacy of martyrs throughout church history, culminating in the profound impact of Charlie Kirk's life and untimely death.
Join us as we explore the stories of courageous individuals like Stephen, Ignatius, and Jim Elliot, who chose to speak truth in the face of persecution. We examine how their sacrifices shaped the church and continue to inspire believers today.
This episode is a call to live boldly for Christ, reminding us that the cost of discipleship is high, but the reward is eternal.
Chapters:
(02:08) The story of Stephen reminds us that words matter.
(06:56) Emperors tested the earliest Christians and ultimately martyred
(13:31) Perpetua was one of the first great female Christian witnesses
(15:15) The Diocletian persecution was Rome's fiercest strike against Christianity
(23:41) Jim and Elizabeth Elliot stand as the brightest examples of costly discipleship
(27:59) Around 380 million Christians worldwide live under high levels of persecution
(36:25) If you call yourself a follower of Jesus Christ, the story of martyrs is not just history
(40:32) Charlie Kirk entrusted his life to Jesus at an early age
Episode Sponsor:
The church is corrupted https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DKFSXQTR
The church is born https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09BGLZ7C1
Alexander Henry Coffee https://alexanderhenrycoffee.ca Use CODE: churchhistory for 20% off
Links:
https://linktr.ee/loreleesiemens
An Africa mission I recommend: https://globaltrain.org
If you enjoyed this episode, listen to these as well:
Just a Pinch: https://loreleesiemens.com/media/771671-3210084-1942370/just-a-pinch
Chasing Joy: The Transformative Journey of C.S. Lewis: https://loreleesiemens.com/media/771671-3210084-35089061/chasing-joy-the-transformative-journey-of-c-s-lewis
The History of Hymns with Lorelee Siemens: https://loreleesiemens.com/podcasts/hymns
...more
0min
September 08, 2025 The Radical Theology of Karl Barth: A Journey Through Faith and War
In this episode, we delve into the extraordinary life of Karl Barth, a theologian who challenged the foundations of liberal theology during the tumultuous times of World War I. Discover how Barth's experiences shaped his revolutionary ideas that redefined modern Protestant thought, culminating in his magnum opus, the Church Dogmatics.
Join Lorelee Siemens as we explore Barth's journey from a curious child in Switzerland to a bold voice against Nazi ideology, and learn how his theology continues to influence the church today.
Chapters:
(05:34) Barth revolutionized Protestant theology with his influential 1914 book Crisis Theology.
(10:18) Barth and Bruner debate Christian theology ahead of World War II.
(18:04) Barth's theology challenged Christians to remember that the Church's loyalty belongs to Jesus.
Episode Sponsor:
The church is corrupted https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DKFSXQTR
The church is born https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09BGLZ7C1
Alexander Henry Coffee https://alexanderhenrycoffee.ca Use CODE: churchhistory for 20% off
Links:
https://linktr.ee/loreleesiemens
An Africa mission I recommend: https://globaltrain.org
If you enjoyed this episode, listen to these as well:
Faith and Fury: The Church's Role in World War I: https://loreleesiemens.com/media/771671-3210084-35078519/faith-and-fury-the-churchs-role-in-world-war-i
Chasing Joy: The Transformative Journey of C.S. Lewis: https://loreleesiemens.com/media/771671-3210084-35089061/chasing-joy-the-transformative-journey-of-c-s-lewis

The History of Hymns with Lorelee Siemens: https://loreleesiemens.com/podcasts/hymns
...more
21min
September 01, 2025 Faith, Art, and Sacrifice: The Life of Oswald Chambers
In this episode, we delve into the remarkable life of Oswald Chambers, a man who transformed despair into hope during the First World War. From his childhood prayers in Scotland to his impactful ministry in Egypt, Chambers' journey is a testament to unwavering faith and devotion.
Chapters:
(01:08) Oswald dreamed of becoming an artist after moving to London.
(04:32) Oswald converted to Christianity after hearing Charles Hayden Spurgeon.
(10:59) Oswald felt God calling him into ministry at Edinburgh University.
(15:19) Oswald decided to attend an obscure Bible college in Scotland.
(20:24) Oswald prayed for the filling of the Holy Spirit.
(31:53) Oswald proposed to Biddy Hobbs in 1910.
(37:05) Life at the Bible Training College was full of people coming and going.
(39:48) Oswald preached on obedience ahead of the Great War.
(49:37) Oswald devoted his life to helping wounded soldiers in Egypt.
(55:22) Biddy Chambers wanted to create a book based on Oswald's sermons.
Episode Sponsor:
The church is corrupted https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DKFSXQTR
The church is born
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09BGLZ7C1
Alexander Henry Coffee
https://alexanderhenrycoffee.ca Use CODE: churchhistory for 20% off
Links:
https://linktr.ee/loreleesiemens
An Africa mission I recommend: https://globaltrain.org
If you enjoyed this episode, listen to these as well:
Charles Spurgeon A Legacy of Faith: https://loreleesiemens.com/media/771671-3210084-34799450/charles-spurgeon-a-legacy-of-faith-and-controversy
The start of the YMCA and the early life of D.L. Moody: https://loreleesiemens.com/media/771671-3210084-34685328/the-start-of-the-ymca-and-the-early-life-of-d-l-moody
Hudson Taylor: https://loreleesiemens.com/media/771671-3210084-17846177/hudson-taylor
...more
1h 3min
August 18, 2025 The Legacy of J.R.R. Tolkien: Faith, War, and Imagination
In this episode, we delve into the profound life of J.R.R. Tolkien, the beloved author of "The Hobbit" and "The Lord of the Rings." Join Lorelee Siemens as she explores Tolkien's journey through faith, loss, and war, revealing how his experiences shaped the enchanting world of Middle-earth.
From his early childhood in South Africa to his transformative years at Oxford and the impact of World War I, discover how Tolkien's steadfast faith and friendships influenced his legendary storytelling. This episode is a tribute to the enduring power of hope and fellowship in the darkest of times.
Chapters:
(05:03) Arthur Tolkien, who worked as a bank manager in Africa, died in 1896
(10:38) Father Francis Morgan adopted Ronald and Hillary Tolkien when they were 12 years old
(14:50) Tolkien remained steadfastly devoted to the Catholic Church throughout his life
(17:30) In 1914, Ronald Tolkien was 22 years old, a student at Oxford
(22:23) Ronald Tolkien was on the Western Front during World War I
(28:42) In 1926, Ronald Tolkien met Clive Staples Lewis at Oxford University
(35:15) Ronald Tolkien was a professor of Anglo-Saxon at Oxford during WWII
(43:24) The Lord of the Rings was never meant to be a Christian allegory
(45:32) By the 1950s, the friendship between Ronald Tolkien and Jack Lewis had shifted
(47:39) After Tolkien died in 1973, his family carried on his legacy
Episode Sponsor:
The church is corrupted https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DKFSXQTR
The church is born https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09BGLZ7C1
Alexander Henry Coffee https://alexanderhenrycoffee.ca Use CODE: churchhistory for 20% off
Links:
https://linktr.ee/loreleesiemens
An Africa mission I recommend: https://globaltrain.org
If you enjoyed this episode, listen to these as well:
Chasing Joy: The Transformative Journey of C.S. Lewis: https://loreleesiemens.com/media/771671-3210084-35089061/chasing-joy-the-transformative-journey-of-c-s-lewis
Armenian Genocide: Aurora's Fight for Freedom https://loreleesiemens.com/media/771671-3210084-35084508/armenian-genocide-auroras-fight-for-freedom
Faith and Fury: The Church's Role in World War I: https://loreleesiemens.com/media/771671-3210084-35078519/faith-and-fury-the-churchs-role-in-world-war-i
The Russian Revolution: https://loreleesiemens.com/media/771671-3210084-35063416/how-faith-survived-when-empires-fel
...more
52min

FAQs about Church History:

How many episodes does Church History have?

The podcast currently has 249 episodes available.

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