Church History

In this episode, we explore the inspiring story of Althea and Alonzo Edmiston, two missionaries who bravely served in the Congo Free State during a time of colonial strife and personal danger.

As we delve into their remarkable journey, we reflect on the legacy of David Livingstone.

We also share the stories of the courageous efforts of missionaries amidst the horrors of exploitation and conflict.

Join us as we recount the events of November 2, 1904, and the impact of faith and resilience in a challenging mission field.

Chapters:

(01:05) In 1873, David Livingstone died in Central Africa

(04:09) Aletha Brown and Alonzo Edmonstone launched pioneering missions in Congo

(10:32) The Congo and Rwanda have been at war

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 History of the Hymns: https://loreleesiemens.com/podcasts/hymns

David Livingstone Part One: https://loreleesiemens.com/media/771671-3210084-20510740/david-livingstone-part-one

Henry M Stanley: https://loreleesiemens.com/media/771671-3210084-31571269/henry-m-stanley

The Doxology: A Hymn by Thomas Ken: https://loreleesiemens.com/media/771671-3210084-34885624/the-doxology-a-hymn-by-thomas-ken

Summary

In this gripping episode, we explore the tumultuous events leading up to the Spanish-American War through the lens of journalism, faith, and sensationalism. Host Lorelee Siemens guides us through the riveting story of Evangelina Cocio Cisneros, a young Cuban girl whose plight captured the hearts of America, igniting a war fueled by headlines and moral outrage. Discover how the intersection of church and media influenced public sentiment and propelled the nation into conflict, as we unravel the complexities of truth, justice, and the cost of war.

Chapters:

(00:00) In 1898, the United States declared war on Spain

(01:12) William Randolph Hearst wanted war on the front page in 1897

(04:55) Spanish soldiers arrested young Evangelina Cocio Cisneros in 1898

(10:46) An explosion on the US Maine leaves 260 sailors dead in 1898

(18:24) The legacy of the Spanish-American War is anything but simple

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

The Book I Recommend: https://www.amazon.com/Shepherds-Sale-Evangelical-Leaders-Leftist/dp/0063413442

An Africa mission I recommend: https://globaltrain.org

If you enjoyed this episode, listen to these as well:

The History of the Hymns: https://loreleesiemens.com/podcasts/hymns

The Herrnhut Revival - A prayer meeting that lasted 100 years: https://loreleesiemens.com/media/771671-3210084-13494830/the-herrnhut-revival-a-prayer-meeting-that-lasted-100-years

Defiance in Darkness: The Underground Church of Russia: https://loreleesiemens.com/media/771671-3210084-35067672/defiance-in-darkness-the-underground-church-of-russia

In this episode, we explore a remarkable moment in history when faith triumphed over conflict in the early 1900s.

Join Lorelee Siemens as she recounts the story of the Christ of the Andes, a statue that symbolizes peace between Argentina and Chile during a time of escalating tensions.

Explore how prayer and unity among diverse faiths played a pivotal role in averting war, culminating in a monument that stands as a testament to reconciliation and hope. This inspiring narrative reminds us of the church's calling to be peacemakers in a fractured world.

Chapters:

(02:53) At the dawn of the 20th century, Argentina and Chile were rivals

(04:54) Across the border in Chile, the landscape was shifting. The year was 1902. War seemed inevitable

(08:00) A miracle – The answer to the prayers of the church

(09:00) Building a monument

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 History of the Hymns: https://loreleesiemens.com/podcasts/hymns

The Herrnhut Revival - A prayer meeting that lasted 100 years: https://loreleesiemens.com/media/771671-3210084-13494830/the-herrnhut-revival-a-prayer-meeting-that-lasted-100-years

Defiance in Darkness: The Underground Church of Russia: https://loreleesiemens.com/media/771671-3210084-35067672/defiance-in-darkness-the-underground-church-of-russia

Today, I wanted to bring you something a little different—a bonus episode. Since we’ve been immersed in Russian history, I thought it would be fitting to revisit one of the most beloved hymns that connects to that very era.

How Great Thou Art—a hymn sung around the world today—actually has its roots in Eastern Europe and was written during the time of the Russian Revolution. Its words carried hope and awe in a time of turmoil and fear.

In this gripping episode, we journey back to the winter of 1918 in St. Petersburg, where the Bolshevik Revolution has unleashed a brutal assault on Christianity. Join Lorelee Siemens as she uncovers the remarkable stories of resilience among believers, including Patriarch Tikhon and Metropolitan Veniamin, and Ivan Prokhanov, who stood firm in their faith amidst persecution.

Discover how the underground church quietly thrived in the shadows, preserving the essence of Christianity in a time of chaos and repression. Don't miss this powerful exploration of faith under fire!

Chapters:

(01:16) The Russian Orthodox Church had become deeply entangled with the throne before the revolution

(03:58) Lenin believed religion was not only false, but it was dangerous

(06:49) Russian Orthodox Patriarch Tikhon was imprisoned during the Bolshevik Revolution

(09:44) Metropolitan Veniamin refused to give up church treasures during the Soviet famine

(12:47) Evangelical believers were forming resistance against the Soviet regime under communism

Music in today’s episode

HOW GREAT THOU ART / Как Ты велик - English & Russian - ELENYI, feat. Jarom Hansen: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gZ9lYwA9zVk

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 History of the Hymns: https://loreleesiemens.com/podcasts/hymns

Karl Marx: https://loreleesiemens.com/media/771671-3210084-18248374/karl-marx

The Unyielding Faith of Ivan Prokhanov:

A Russian Hero: https://loreleesiemens.com/media/771671-3210084-35035936/the-unyielding-faith-of-ivan-prokhanov-a-russian-hero

How Great Thou Art: A Hymn's Global Legacy: https://loreleesiemens.com/media/771671-3210084-34918632/how-great-thou-art-a-hymns-global-legacy

In this riveting episode, we delve into the tumultuous history of the Russian Church from the 17th century to the rise of the Bolsheviks. Host Lorelee Siemens takes us on a journey through the struggles and perseverance of believers during a time of great upheaval.

Discover the courageous stories of figures like Princess Dorothea von Leven and Princess Natalie Levine, who navigated the intricacies of faith and politics amidst persecution.

This episode sets the stage for our new series, 'The Church at War,' as we delve into the profound impact of the 20th century on the global church.

Chapters:

(00:59) The Russian Orthodox Church underwent significant turmoil following 1666 and 1667 reforms

(08:54) Princess Natalie Levine was a prominent figure in the Russian evangelical revival of 19th century

(12:42) Tsar Nicholas II. believed his authority came directly from God

(13:26) For the first time in Russian history, evangelical Christians were granted legal recognition

(16:17) After 300 years of Romanov rule, the Russian Empire came crashing down in 1917

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

si=oY3jznT-P8DP5ncK

An Africa mission I recommend: https://globaltrain.org

If you enjoyed this episode, listen to these as well:

The History of the Hymns: https://loreleesiemens.com/podcasts/hymns

Charles Spurgeon: The Making of the Prince of Preachers: https://loreleesiemens.com/media/771671-3210084-34696025/the-role-of-the-orthodox-church-in-ending-ottoman-rule-in-greece

D.L.Moody: https://loreleesiemens.com/media/771671-3210084-34693937/d-l-moody-preaches-around-the-world

William and Catherine Booth and the Salvation Army: https://loreleesiemens.com/media/771671-3210084-34678662/william-and-catherine-booth-and-the-salvation-army

In this final episode of the series, 'The Church is on a Mission,' host Lorelee Siemens shares the remarkable story of Tom Ryman, a riverboat captain whose life was transformed during a fiery revival meeting.

Once a man of vice and wealth, Ryman's encounter with revivalist Sam Jones led him to dedicate his life to Christ, resulting in the establishment of the iconic Ryman Auditorium in Nashville.

This episode explores themes of redemption, legacy, and the profound impact of one man's faith on a community and culture.

Chapters:

(01:06) Tom Ryman transformed from riverboat hustler to born-again believer

(03:33) Thomas Ryman made his fortune as a riverboat captain and entrepreneur

(06:04) Sam Jones became one of the most famous revivalists in the American South

(13:17) Union Gospel Tabernacle became the birthplace of country music in 1943

(17:07) What legacy are you building 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

The Hound of Heaven Poem: https://youtu.be/0wBlXEZipG8?si=oY3jznT-P8DP5ncK

An Africa mission I recommend: https://globaltrain.org

If you enjoyed this episode, listen to these as well:

The History of the Hymns: https://loreleesiemens.com/podcasts/hymns

Charles Spurgeon: The Making of the Prince of Preachers: https://loreleesiemens.com/media/771671-3210084-34782810/charles-spurgeon-the-making-of-the-prince-of-preachers

Handel’s Messiah: The Song for the King of Kings: https://loreleesiemens.com/media/771671-3210084-34887896/handels-messiah-the-song-for-the-king-of-kings

In this episode, Lorelee Siemens takes us on a profound journey through the life and struggles of Francis Thompson, the author of the iconic poem "The Hound of Heaven."

We explore themes of running from God, the relentless pursuit of divine love, and the transformative power of grace.

This episode is a heartfelt reminder for those who feel lost or for parents praying for their wayward children. Join us as we reflect on Thompson's story and the enduring impact of his work on faith and literature.

Chapters:

(02:14) Francis Thompson failed at medicine

(05:08) Francis Thompson lived among the discarded in London amid addiction and despair

(11:10) Francis Thompson's famous poem Hound of Heaven has a profound spiritual influence

(19:58) We pray specifically for those sons and daughters who have drifted from the faith

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

The Hound of Heaven Poem: https://youtu.be/0wBlXEZipG8?si=oY3jznT-P8DP5ncK

An Africa mission I recommend: https://globaltrain.org

If you enjoyed this episode, listen to these as well:

The History of the Hymns: https://loreleesiemens.com/podcasts/hymns

Charles Spurgeon: The Making of the Prince of Preachers: https://loreleesiemens.com/media/771671-3210084-34782810/charles-spurgeon-the-making-of-the-prince-of-preachers

Handel’s Messiah: The Song for the King of Kings: https://loreleesiemens.com/media/771671-3210084-34887896/handels-messiah-the-song-for-the-king-of-kings

In today's episode, we uncover the remarkable story of Lew Wallace, a man of war who transformed his life through faith and storytelling. Known for his courage on the battlefield, Wallace's journey led him to write the beloved Christian novel, 'Ben Hur.' Join us as we explore his life, the challenges he faced, and the profound impact of his work on countless readers. This episode is a testament to the power of seeking truth and the unexpected paths that lead to faith.

Chapters:

(08:39) Lew Wallace questioned the divinity of Jesus Christ on a train ride

(16:32) Lee Wallace believed in Jesus Christ despite never joining a church

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 History of the Hymns: https://loreleesiemens.com/podcasts/hymns

Maria Fearing: From Slavery to Missionary in Africa: https://loreleesiemens.com/media/771671-3210084-35013661/maria-fearing-from-slavery-to-missionary-in-africa

Handel’s Messiah: The Song for the King of Kings: https://loreleesiemens.com/media/771671-3210084-34887896/handels-messiah-the-song-for-the-king-of-kings

In this episode, we explore the transformative Azusa Street Revival, a pivotal moment in church history that sparked the modern Pentecostal movement.

Host Lorelee Siemens takes us back to 1906, where a humble prayer meeting led by William J. Seymour ignited a spiritual awakening that transcended racial and social barriers.

Discover the legacy of this revival, its global impact, and the remarkable story of a blind black man who became a beacon of hope and unity in a divided America.

Chapters:

(02:57) Simon Seymour was born a slave in Louisiana; he later became a Christian.

(11:26) William Seymour believed that if he prayed fervently enough, he would speak in tongues.

(19:22) The Azusa Street Mission was a catalyst for Pentecostalism

(22:22) There are several possible criticisms of the Azusa Street revival

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 History of the Hymns: https://loreleesiemens.com/podcasts/hymns

D.L.Moody: https://loreleesiemens.com/media/771671-3210084-34693937/d-l-moody-preaches-around-the-world

William and Catherine Booth and the Salvation Army: https://loreleesiemens.com/media/771671-3210084-34678662/william-and-catherine-booth-and-the-salvation-army