"The Church History Podcast" explores the pivotal moments, influential figures, and theological developments that have shaped Christianity throughout history. Hosted by Rachel Chen, each episode features Church Historian, Bishop Andy C. Lewter, who brings scholarly insight and engaging storytelling to illuminate how the church has navigated challenges, adapted to change, and influenced civilization across two millennia.

Episode Summary

Today's episode explores one of history's most transformative periods—the birth of the Middle Ages. This episode examines how the collapse of the Western Roman Empire and the rise of Germanic tribes fundamentally reshaped both European civilization and Christianity itself.

What You'll Discover:

• The true story behind the so-called "barbarian invasions"—really a complex process of migration, settlement, and cultural integration
• How Germanic tribes like the Goths, Visigoths, and Vandals established new kingdoms across former Roman territories
• The Church's brilliant adaptive strategies for converting Arian Christian tribes to orthodox faith
• Dramatic papal diplomacy, including Pope Leo I's legendary encounters with Attila the Hun and Genseric the Vandal
• The remarkable partnership between Byzantine Emperor Justinian I and his influential wife Theodora
• How the magnificent Hagia Sophia became a theological statement in stone and gold
• The contrasting development of papal authority in the West versus imperial control of the Church in the East
• Why this period established patterns that would define medieval Christianity for centuries

Perfect for:

• History enthusiasts curious about the transition from ancient to medieval worlds
• Christians interested in how their faith adapted during times of massive change
• Anyone fascinated by the intersection of politics, culture, and religion
• Listeners who enjoy expert analysis delivered through engaging conversation

Expert Guest: Harvard graduate and Church Historian, Bishop Andy C. Lewter, brings decades of scholarship as Adjunct Professor of Church History at the Beulah Heights Bible University and Historian of the Full Gospel Baptist Church Fellowship in addition to his pastorate of two local Baptist Churches in New York City and Long Island, New York. His expertise illuminates how church leaders navigated unprecedented challenges with remarkable creativity and strategic thinking.