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The Church History Project

Jared Luttjeboer 32 Episodes Mar 10, 2026

Guided by Dr. Nick Needham's book series, "2000 Years of Christ's Power," join Jared Luttjeboer on an epic journey through time. Through sweeping cinematic music, narrative storytelling, and practical application, discover the history behind the faith you already confess — and how Christ has been faithful to His Church for millennia. TCHP is a labor of love from a full-time working dad who squeezes this podcast into the small spaces of life.

Episodes

The Epistle to Diognetus Mar 10, 2026 00:26:47 A letter arrives at the door of a Roman intellectual, and what it says about the people called "Christians" is unlike anything he's heard before. Written by an unknown hand sometime in the second or third century, the Epistle to Diognetus offers one of the most beautiful portraits of early Christian life to survive from the ancient world: a people who look like everyone else, yet liv

Polycarp Feb 24, 2026 00:35:18 When an 86-year-old bishop was dragged into a Roman arena, the proconsul offered him a simple choice: curse Christ and live, or refuse and burn. Polycarp's response—"Eighty-six years I have served Him, and He has done me no wrong"—would echo through two millennia of Christian history. This episode explores how one man's final hours in Smyrna became the template for Christian mart

The Shepherd of Hermas Feb 10, 2026 00:39:01 When a Roman freedman claimed that angels showed him the Church as an unfinished tower, where cracked stones are cast out, and only one repentance is allowed after baptism, early Christians listened. The Shepherd of Hermas was so influential that some considered it Scripture; yet, its ambiguous teachings about Christ ultimately kept it from being included in the canon. In this episode, explore the

The Epistle of Barnabas Jan 27, 2026 00:39:34 The Jerusalem Temple lies in ruins, and a furious Christian writer is determined to answer one explosive question: Who are the true people of God? The anonymous author behind the Epistle of Barnabas doesn't pull punches; he declares that the covenant belongs to Christians, not Jews, and that Israel misunderstood their own Scriptures from the very beginning. His letter, once tucked into one of

The Fragments of Papias Jan 13, 2026 00:32:14 What if you could sit across from someone who spoke with those who walked with Jesus, but everything he told you sounded almost too strange to believe? Papias of Hierapolis claimed to preserve eyewitness testimony from the apostolic generation, including bizarre sayings of Jesus about supernatural vineyards and a grotesque account of Judas' death that will haunt you. This bishop's writings

The Didache Dec 30, 2025 00:42:43 For nearly two millennia, Christianity's oldest instruction manual lay hidden in a dusty monastery until its explosive rediscovery in 1873 shocked the scholarly world. Written when some believers may have personally known the apostles, this lost text reveals how the earliest Christians prayed, worshiped, baptized, and protected their communities from infiltrators. What surprising practices did

Ignatius of Antioch Dec 16, 2025 00:31:23 What kind of pastor, arrested and chained for execution, spends his final journey not begging for mercy but writing letters to churches—urging them not to save him? Ignatius of Antioch embraced martyrdom with a strength that both inspires and challenges us today. In this episode, we follow his harrowing journey from arrest to the Roman Colosseum and explore the seven powerful letters he penned alo

Bonus: Behind the Scenes of Season 3 May 30, 2025 00:06:50 In this behind-the-scenes episode, I share where things stand with Season 3 of The Church History Project—what's already in the works, what's coming next, and what I’ve been learning along the way. From early research on Ignatius of Antioch to deep dives into the Didache, Papias, and the Epistle of Barnabas, this episode offers a sneak peek at what's ahead. I also talk about future plans for tight

Clement of Rome Mar 19, 2025 00:21:59 We're excited to announce the first episode of Season 3! Stay tuned in the months ahead as the remainder of the season (Lord willing) rolls out.In this episode, Jared explores the life and legacy of Clement of Rome, one of the influential Apostolic Fathers who bridged the gap between the apostolic age and the expanding church of the second century. Discover how Clement's letter to the Corinthians—

Bonus: An Important Update Jan 21, 2025 00:08:15 Hi friends! It’s been a while, but I wanted to share an update with you about The Church History Project. Life has been a balancing act between family, work, and creative pursuits, which led to a short pause in episodes. In this update, I’ll explain the delay, share plans for upcoming episodes, and reveal ideas to enhance your listening experience.Plus, learn how you can connect with me, support t

Domitian Dec 3, 2024 00:41:32 In this season finale, explore the turbulent reign of Emperor Domitian, his ruthless ambition, and the oppressive persecution he unleashed upon early Christians. This episode looks into the history, paranoia, and imperial cult surrounding Domitian and highlights how faithful believers, including the Apostle John, stood firm against his tyranny. ,Join The Church History Project Facebook group to di

The Jewish War Nov 26, 2024 00:46:37 To join The Church History Project Facebook group and engage in more discussion about released episodes and other fascinating nuggets of church history, you can visit the page ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Support the show at buymeacoffee.com/thechurchhistoryprojectIn this episode, we dive into the turbulent era of the Jewish War (66-73 AD) and explore its seismic impact on both Jewish and early Christian

The Great Fire of Rome and Nero's Persecution of Christians Nov 19, 2024 00:34:19 To join The Church History Project Facebook group and engage in more discussion about released episodes and other fascinating nuggets of church history, you can visit the page ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. In this episode, explore the infamous reign of Emperor Nero and the first official Roman persecution of Christians, and how the Great Fire of Rome in 64 AD became a catalyst for violence against early bel

James the Just Nov 12, 2024 00:17:50 In this episode, we explore the life and martyrdom of James the Just, brother of Jesus and a key figure in the early Christian church. Learn about his role in the Jerusalem Council, his reputation for piety, and his death as a witness to his faith.Episode Overview Introduction to the various James figures in the New Testament James' early life and initial skepticism towards Jesus' ministry James'

The Life and Letters of Paul the Apostle Nov 5, 2024 00:13:22 Explore the life and legacy of the Apostle Paul in this episode of The Church History Project. From zealous persecutor to tireless evangelist, we'll see how Paul's conversion and mission work shaped early Christianity and continues to influence believers today.Episode Overview Paul's conversion on the road to Damascus Paul's transition from persecutor to evangelist The first Christian mission from

The Rise of the Jesus Movement Oct 29, 2024 00:12:47 Explore the origins of the term "Christian" and the early days of the Jesus Movement in this episode of The Church History Project. From Stephen's martyrdom to the establishment of the church in Antioch, discover how persecution led to the spread of the gospel beyond Jerusalem.Episode Overview The formation of the early church in Jerusalem Stephen's martyrdom and its impact The scattering of belie

Interlude: The Resurrection as the Cornerstone of Christianity May 13, 2024 00:08:19 In this first interlude, we take a pause between Seasons 1 and 2 to reflect on the pivotal event that forever altered the course of history - the resurrection of Jesus Christ. Before delving into the formative years of the early church in season 2, we must acknowledge the foundational truth upon which the entire Christian faith rests.The resurrection was not merely a historical curiosity but a thu

Countdown to 70 Jan 31, 2024 00:13:48 In this season finale, explore God's providential plan in scattering the Jewish people prior to the time of Christ, setting the context for the rapid spread of the gospel message across the Roman world. We'll also preview the coming destruction of Jerusalem in 70 AD and the explosive launch of the Christian movement in Season 2.Episode Overview The scattering of the Jewish people (the Diaspora) es

The Essenes Jan 23, 2024 00:14:39 This episode explores the Essenes, a mysterious Jewish sect that emerged in Judea during the Second Temple period. These ascetic communities pursued spiritual purity by withdrawing into the wilderness, embracing ritual washing, celibacy, and fervent expectation of the coming Messiah.Episode OverviewThe episode covers the origins of the Essenes, their connections to the Dead Sea Scrolls found at Qu

The Zealots Jan 16, 2024 00:14:55 This episode explores the rise of the Zealots, a militant Jewish faction who fiercely resisted Roman occupation in the 1st century AD. We examine their origins, beliefs, anticipation of the Messiah to deliver them, and how their vision ultimately collided with Jesus'. Episode OverviewThe Zealots emerged in Judea when it was under Roman rule. They fiercely defended the Torah and Jewish customs, vio

The Pharisees Jan 9, 2024 00:20:02 This episode explores the Pharisees, a devout group within Judaism known for strictly adhering to religious laws and traditions. We'll examine their origins, beliefs, and their interactions with Jesus and the early Church. Episode Overview The Pharisees emerged from scribes and scholars who upheld Jewish faith and identity during Babylonian exile They zealously followed both biblical laws and "ora

The Sadducees Jan 2, 2024 00:15:34 This episode provides background on the Sadducees, an elite group of priests and aristocrats who wielded power in Judea during Jesus' time. It covers their role in society, theological beliefs, political cooperation with Rome, and involvement in Jesus' trial.Episode Overview The Sadducees were a small but influential faction that controlled the Jerusalem Temple rituals and the Jewish high court. T

Journey to 30 Dec 26, 2023 00:15:55 This episode provides critical background on the complex political history between Rome and Judea that set the stage for Jesus' ministry and the dawn of Christianity around 30 AD. Episode Overview The episode begins by tracing the origins of Roman-Jewish relations to a small treaty between the Roman Republic and Jewish Maccabees in 161 BC. This pact would foreshadow future Roman interference in Ju

Stoicism Dec 19, 2023 00:14:20 In this episode, we explore the ancient philosophy of Stoicism that was popular during the early church. The Stoics sought inner peace through rigorous self-control, virtue, and detachment from emotions. We'll see how Stoic ethics aligned with Christianity in some ways yet differed significantly in its worldview. Episode Overview Stoicism founded by Zeno of Citium in ancient Athens Virtue and self

Epicureanism Dec 12, 2023 00:11:23 This episode provides an overview of the ancient Greek philosophy of Epicureanism, including its views on ethics, pleasure, friendship, death, and the gods. We explore how Epicurus sought freedom from disturbance and fear through limiting desires, cultivating virtues, and surrounding oneself with friends. We'll also highlight Epicurus' atomic theory of the universe and contrast his views with Chri

Platonism Dec 5, 2023 00:12:01 This episode provides an overview of Middle Platonism, a revival of Plato's philosophy that emerged in the 1st century BC. We explore key Platonist beliefs like the existence of a Supreme Being and divine Ideas. The episode also discusses Platonism's influence on early Christian thinkers.Episode Overview Platonism declined after Plato's death but revived in the 1st century BC as Middle Platonism M

The Mystery Cults Nov 28, 2023 00:11:09 In this episode, we explore the ancient mystery cults that flourished in the Roman Empire from the 1st to 4th centuries AD. These secretive religions, like the cults of Cybele, Isis, Mithras, and others, offered initiation, community, and promises of salvation. We'll learn about their beliefs and practices and see how they contrast with the truth and light found in Christ.Episode Overview The myst

Emperor Worship Nov 21, 2023 00:08:33 In this episode, we explore the history and impact of emperor worship in the Roman Empire. We discuss how emperors came to be seen as gods, the differences between practices in the Eastern and Western provinces, and famous deified leaders like Augustus. Episode Overview The influence of Greek and Asian culture in spreading the concept of divine kingship The development of the imperial cult first i

The Pantheon Nov 14, 2023 00:10:57 In this episode, we survey the pantheon of Roman gods and goddesses that were worshipped in the Roman Empire. We look at some of the major deities like Jupiter, Juno, Mars, Venus, Neptune, and Pluto and discuss elements of Roman pagan worship like animal sacrifice, prayer, and divination. This episode also sets the stage for how the early Church emerged in this religious context.Episode Overview T

The Rise of Hellenism Nov 7, 2023 00:09:08 In this episode, we explore the rise and influence of Hellenism in the ancient world leading up to the early Church. We learn how Greek culture, art, philosophy, and language spread across the Eastern Mediterranean and became dominant in the Roman Empire.Episode Overview The death of Alexander the Great in 323 BC marked the beginning of the Hellenistic period when Greek culture spread widely. The

A Cradle for an Empire Oct 31, 2023 00:12:39 Join The Church History Project Facebook group to dive deeper into discussions about our episodes and explore intriguing stories from church history. Visit the group ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. If you'd like to support the show, you can do so through ⁠Buy Me a Coffee⁠. We truly appreciate your support!In this inaugural episode, we overview the history of Rome leading up to the birth of Jesus Christ during

Teaser Trailer Jun 21, 2023 00:01:47 Guided by Dr. Nick Needham’s book series, "2000 Years of Christ’s Power," join Jared Luttjeboer on this epic journey through time as we explore the historical wonders of the Christian faith and discover how Christ has been faithful to his Church for millennia. This is the Church History Project.

The Church History Project

Episodes

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