The Church in History: The Story of Christianity

S1E1 - The Birth and Expansion of the Early Church

Mon, 11 May 2026 01:12:29 -0000

In this first episode of The Church in History: The Story of Christianity, we explore how the ancient world was prepared for the coming and expansion of the Christian church. From Roman rule and Greek culture to the spread of the Greek language and the rise of early missionaries, we examine the physical and spiritual conditions that helped Christianity spread throughout the Roman Empire. We also look at the persecution and challenges that shaped and strengthened the early church.

Lesson from May 10, 2026

The Settled In Heaven podcast series consists of weekly episodes that are recorded in our Sunday School class at Stuart Heights Baptist Church in Hixson, TN. Please reach out if you have any questions. If you live nearby, we'd love to have you join us! Do not forget to check out our other series on other books of the Bible and topics which can be found by searching "Settled In Heaven".

Teacher: Chris Cordes

S1E2 - The Church in the Middle Ages Explained

Fri, 12 Jun 2026 02:12:03 -0000

In this second episode of The Church in History: The Story of Christianity, we explore the Church in the Middle Ages and its influence on faith, culture, and society. We examine the growth of Christianity across medieval Europe, the increasing authority of the institutional church, and the challenges and developments that shaped this pivotal period in church history. Join us as we trace how the medieval church helped prepare the way for the changes that would eventually lead to the Reformation.

Lesson from May 31, 2026

Teacher: Chris Cordes

S1E3 - The Church and State in the Middle Ages: Hildebrand vs. King Henry IV

Tue, 01 Sep 2026 00:55:18 -0000

In this episode of The Church in History: The Story of Christianity, we continue our study of the medieval church by examining the conflict between Hildebrand, Pope Gregory VII, and King Henry IV. We explore the struggle between church and state, the question of authority, and the dramatic events surrounding the Investiture Controversy. Join us as we examine how this conflict shaped the history of Christianity and the medieval church.

Teacher: Chris Cordes

S1E4 - The Crusades Explained: Causes, History, and Outcomes

Sat, 12 Sep 2026 01:12:58 -0000

In this episode of The Church in History: The Story of Christianity, we explore the Crusades and their place in the history of the medieval church. We examine what led to the Crusades, what qualified as a crusade, how many Crusades took place, and the tragic consequences that followed. We also consider what the Crusades accomplished and how they shaped the history of Christianity and the medieval world.

Be sure to check out our mainly weekly podcast series filled with lessons and book studies from the Bible by searching for Settled in Heaven.

Teacher: Chris Cordes

S1E5 - The Church Rising and Falling: Medieval Church History

Sat, 19 Sep 2026 00:14:05 -0000

In this episode of The Church in History: The Story of Christianity, we explore the medieval church from 1198 to 1417, a period of great influence, conflict, and change. We examine figures such as Pope Innocent III and Pope Boniface VIII, the Fourth Lateran Council, the conflict between Boniface VIII and King Philip the Fair, and the Babylonian Captivity of the papacy. Join us as we trace the rise and decline of papal power during this important period of church history.

Teacher: Chris Cordes

S1E6 - The Protestant Reformation: A Turning Point in Church History

Wed, 07 Oct 2026 02:32:00 -0000

In this episode of The Church in History: The Story of Christianity, we explore the Protestant Reformation and the major changes it brought to the Christian church. We examine the causes of the Reformation, the call to reform the church, and the events and leaders that shaped this important turning point in church history. Join us as we consider how the Reformation changed Christianity and influenced the church for generations to come.

Teacher: Chris Cordes

Primary Podcast Series: Settled in Heaven

S1E7 - The Forerunners of the Protestant Reformation

Tue, 13 Oct 2026 01:23:00 -0000

In this episode of The Church in History: The Story of Christianity, we explore the forerunners of the Protestant Reformation, focusing on Peter Waldo and John Wycliffe. We examine their calls for reform and their roles in challenging aspects of the medieval church. Join us as we look at the people and ideas that helped prepare the way for the Protestant Reformation.

Teacher: Chris Cordes