Join Dr. Stephen Boyce and Pat May on the FACTS Podcast as they unpack one of the most defining moments in Christian history—the Council of Ephesus (431 AD). This historic gathering of bishops from across the early Church settled the question: Who is Jesus Christ, and why is Mary called the “Mother of God”?

Discover the theological debates, political drama, and spiritual insights behind the Third Ecumenical Council, where the Church declared that the one born of Mary is truly God made flesh.

#ChristianHistory #CouncilofEphesus #Theotokos #CyrilofAlexandria #Nestorius #EarlyChurch #TheFACTSPodcast #StephenBoyce

What exactly is the Anglican Ordinariate — and should Anglicans join it?

In this episode of The FACTS Podcast, Stephen Boyce explores one of the most fascinating developments in modern Christianity: Pope Benedict XVI’s creation of the Ordinariate, a home for Anglicans entering full communion with the Catholic Church while preserving the beauty of their own liturgical and spiritual heritage.

We’ll unpack what the Ordinariate is, why it was founded, how it functions today, and the real questions Anglicans face when discerning whether to remain in the Communion or cross the Tiber.

Whether you’re an Anglican curious about Catholic unity, a Catholic intrigued by Anglican tradition, or simply someone passionate about church history and Christian unity—this episode is for you.

👉 Subscribe, share, and join the conversation as we ask:

What does unity look like without losing identity?

If you'd like to donate to our ministry or be a monthly partner that receives newsletters and one on one discussions with Dr. Boyce, here's a link: https://give.tithe.ly/?formId=6381a2ee-b82f-42a7-809e-6b733cec05a7

#AnglicanOrdinariate #PopeBenedictXVI #AnglicanorumCoetibus #AngloCatholic #AnglicanPatrimony #OrdinariateOfTheChairOfStPeter #OurLadyOfWalsingham #OurLadyOfTheSouthernCross #AnglicanismAndCatholicism #JoiningTheCatholicChurch #AnglicanLiturgy #AnglicanCatholicUnity #AnglicanTradition #Ecumenism #ChristianUnity #FACTSPodcast #StephenBoyce

In this episode of The FACTS Podcast, we explore one of the most shocking and macabre events in Church history—the Cadaver Synod. In 897 AD, Pope Stephen VI ordered the corpse of his predecessor, Pope Formosus, to be exhumed, dressed in papal vestments, and placed on trial for crimes against the Church.

Why did this happen? What political and theological tensions led to such a grotesque spectacle? And what does the Cadaver Synod reveal about the state of the papacy in the late 9th century?Join Dr. Stephen Boyce as he unpacks the story behind the trial of a dead pope, the chaos of the post-Carolingian Church, and the aftermath that reshaped medieval Rome.If you'd like to donate to our ministry or be a monthly partner that receives newsletters and one on one discussions with Dr. Stephen Boyce, here's a link: https://give.tithe.ly/?formId=6381a2ee-b82f-42a7-809e-6b733cec05a7 #CadaverSynod #ChurchHistory #PapalHistory #TheFACTSPodcast #PopeFormosus #MedievalChurch #DarkAges #ChristianHistory #StephenBoyce #CatholicHistory

In this episode of FACTS, Stephen Boyce and Pat May unpack the Second Ecumenical Council—Constantinople 381, the gathering that completed the Nicene Creed and reshaped the map of early Christianity. Convened by Emperor Theodosius I, this council not only reaffirmed the divinity of Christ but boldly confessed the Holy Spirit as Lord and Giver of Life, closing the door on Arianism and Macedonian heresies once and for all.

Join us as we trace the intense theological debates, the tragic death of Meletius of Antioch, Gregory of Nazianzus’ resignation, and the dramatic rise of Constantinople as “New Rome.” We’ll explore how these events deepened East–West tensions, redefined Church hierarchy, and left an enduring mark on both Orthodox and Catholic tradition.

If you’ve ever wondered how the Creed we recite today took its final shape—or why Constantinople became the new center of gravity for the Eastern Church—this episode is a must-listen.

Topics include:

• The fall of Arian influence and the enforcement of Nicene orthodoxy

• Meletius of Antioch’s death and the Antiochene schism

• Gregory of Nazianzus’ presidency and resignation

• The rise of Nectarius and the making of “New Rome”

• Why Rome rejected Canon 3—and how Chalcedon later affirmed the council

If you'd like to donate to our ministry or be a monthly partner that receives newsletters and one on one discussions with Dr. Stephen Boyce, here's a link: https://give.tithe.ly/?formId=6381a2ee-b82f-42a7-809e-6b733cec05a7

#ChurchHistory #EcumenicalCouncils #NiceneCreed #TheologyPodcast

In this first episode of our new series, The Seven Ecumenical Councils, Stephen Boyce and Pat May explore the Council of Nicaea (325), the landmark gathering that shaped the foundation of Christian orthodoxy. We’ll discuss the historical context, the Arian controversy, the role of Constantine, and how the Nicene Creed became a defining statement of faith for the Church. Join us as we trace the debates, decisions, and lasting legacy of the first ecumenical council.

If you'd like to donate to our ministry or be a monthly partner that receives newsletters and one on one discussions with Dr. Boyce, here's a link: https://give.tithe.ly/?formId=6381a2ee-b82f-42a7-809e-6b733cec05a7

#CouncilOfNicaea #EcumenicalCouncils #ChurchHistory #ChristianTheology

Are you thinking about leaving your current denomination to become Catholic, Orthodox, or Anglican? Before you make that move, there are serious questions you need to wrestle with. In this episode of FACTS, Stephen Boyce walks through five essential questions every believer should ask before switching church traditions. From understanding doctrine beyond surface-level aesthetics, to wrestling with the sacraments, spiritual authority, family impact, and the dangers of rushing, this conversation will help you slow down, think deeply, and discern wisely.Whether you’re curious, struggling, or seriously considering a change, this episode will ground you in both Scripture and church history, reminding us that the faith we confess must be more than a reaction—it must be a conviction.If you'd like to donate to our ministry or be a monthly partner that receives newsletters and one on one discussions with Dr. Boyce, here's a link: https://give.tithe.ly/?formId=6381a2ee-b82f-42a7-809e-6b733cec05a7 👉 Don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe for more conversations on Scripture, Church history, and the faith once delivered to the saints.#ChurchHistory #CatholicConvert #OrthodoxConvert #AnglicanConvert #ChristianPodcast #ProtestantToCatholic #ProtestantToOrthodox #ProtestantToAnglican #FaithJourney #DenominationSwitch #ApostolicFaith #FACTSPodcast #StephenBoyce

We Are at War!: St. Michael, Pray for Us — Dr. Stephen Boyce and Pat May dive into the reality of spiritual warfare and the angelic battles surrounding us, especially within the sacred mystery of the Mass. Drawing on Scripture, Church tradition, and the intercession of St. Michael the Archangel, we explore how the liturgy is not only worship but also a place where heavenly and spiritual realities converge.

This episode unpacks the unseen conflict between the powers of darkness and the hosts of heaven, reminding us that Christians are called to stand firm in prayer, faith, and vigilance. Join us as we reflect on the role of St. Michael, the spiritual meaning of the Mass, and the hope we have in Christ’s victory.

If you'd like to donate to our ministry or be a monthly partner that receives newsletters and one on one discussions with Dr. Boyce, here's a link: https://give.tithe.ly/?formId=6381a2ee-b82f-42a7-809e-6b733cec05a7

👉 Don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe for more conversations on Scripture, Church history, and the faith once delivered to the saints.

#StMichael #SpiritualWarfare #ChristianPodcast #WeAreAtWar #Mass #Liturgy #AngelicHosts #MichaelTheArchangel #ChristianFaith #Catholic #Orthodox #Anglican #Prayer #FaithAndTradition #TheFACTSPodcast #StephenBoyce #PatMay

Join Dr. Stephen Boyce and Fr. James Gadomski (host of Barely Protestant) for a joint livestream as we discuss the shocking news: The Vatican embraces LGBTQ+ pilgrims inside St. Peter’s Basilica. Together we’ll examine what this move means for Catholicism, ecumenical dialogue, and the broader Christian world. Is this a genuine act of hospitality, or a troubling signal of confusion within Rome? Don’t miss this important conversation that cuts to the heart of faith, tradition, and the future of the Church.

If you'd like to donate to our ministry or be a monthly partner that receives newsletters and one on one discussions with Dr. Boyce, here's a link: https://give.tithe.ly/?formId=6381a2ee-b82f-42a7-809e-6b733cec05a7

#Vatican #LGBTQ #CatholicChurch #StPetersBasilica #Rome #Christianity #Ecumenism #DrStephenBoyce #FrJamesGadomski #BarelyProtestant #FACTSPodcast #StephenBoyce

Where should someone start studying church history? Many people jump straight to Augustine, the Creeds, or the Councils — but the real starting point is with Eusebius of Caesarea, the first great historian of the Church.In this episode of The FACTS Podcast with Dr. Stephen Boyce, we explore: • Who Eusebius was and why he matters. • How his Ecclesiastical History preserves documents we would otherwise have lost. • Why he gives the best “map” of Christianity from the apostles to Constantine. • How to read him critically, seeing both his strengths and biases. • A recommended pathway for continuing after Eusebius with the Apostolic Fathers, Apologists, and Nicene defenders.If you’ve ever asked, “Where should I begin my study of church history?” — this is the episode for you.👉 Subscribe for more episodes on the early Church, theology, and history.👉 Comment below: Where did you start your journey into church history?#ChurchHistory #Eusebius #EarlyChurch #ChristianHistory #ChurchFathers #TheologyPodcast #EcclesiasticalHistory #ApostolicFathers #Constantine #Christianity #TheFACTSPodcast #StephenBoyce #DrStephenBoyce

Will there really be a Third Temple in Jerusalem? Or has the Temple already been fulfilled in Christ?

In this episode, Stephen Boyce and Pat May examine one of the most debated questions in Bible prophecy. We’ll explore why a physical third temple is unnecessary and how Jesus Himself is the final Temple, as revealed in John’s Gospel (John 2:19-21) and Revelation (21-22).

We’ll also expose how Dispensationalist interpretations of Ezekiel’s Temple and Revelation often miss the point of the New Covenant. Ezekiel’s visionary temple and John’s apocalyptic imagery are not blueprints for future construction—they’re prophetic symbols fulfilled in Christ and His Church.

What we’ll cover:

• Why Christ is the ultimate Temple of God (John 1:14, John 2:19-21)

• Problems with rebuilding a Temple under the Law of Moses today

• How Ezekiel’s Temple points to a spiritual reality, not a future building

• Misinterpretations of Revelation by Dispensationalists

• The Church as God’s Temple (1 Corinthians 3, Ephesians 2)

• Why focusing on Christ as the Temple transforms worship and prophecy

Join us as we bring clarity to one of the most misunderstood eschatological topics.

#BibleProphecy #ThirdTemple #Eschatology #Dispensationalism #BookOfRevelation #EzekielTemple #ChristTheTemple #NewCovenant #EndTimesDebate #FACTSPodcast #StephenBoyce

Isaiah 7:14 declares, “Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and shall call his name Immanuel.” But was Isaiah pointing to Mary and the birth of Jesus—or someone else in his own day? In this episode, we explore the historical context of Isaiah’s prophecy, King Ahaz’s crisis, the meaning of the Hebrew word ‘almâh, and the different interpretations that have been offered throughout history. Was the sign fulfilled in Isaiah’s time through Hezekiah, Maher-Shalal-Hash-Baz, or the remnant of Israel? Or is Matthew correct in applying it directly to the virgin birth of Christ?In this episode of FACTS, Dr. Stephen Boyce unpacks Isaiah’s prophecy, exploring both its immediate context and ultimate fulfillment, and shows how the New Testament identifies Mary—the mother of Jesus—as the true fulfillment of the promise of Immanuel, ‘God with us.'🔑 Topics Covered: • Historical background: Ahaz, Assyria, and the Syro-Ephraimite War • The sign of Immanuel in Isaiah’s day • The debate over ‘almâh (“young woman” vs. “virgin”) • Ancient translations: LXX, Syriac, and Vulgate choices • Double fulfillment: immediate sign + ultimate prophecy • Why Matthew applies Isaiah 7:14 to Mary and Jesus👉 Don’t miss this deep dive into one of the most debated prophecies in Scripture!If you'd like to donate to our ministry or be a monthly partner that receives newsletters and one on one discussions with Dr. Boyce, here's a link: https://give.tithe.ly/?formId=6381a2ee-b82f-42a7-809e-6b733cec05a7 #VirginBirth #Isaiah7 #Immanuel #Mary #BiblicalProphecy #OldTestament #NewTestament #Apologetics #BibleStudy #ProphecyFulfilled #MessianicProphecy #JesusChrist #Theology #ChristianPodcast #GospelTruth #StephenBoyce #DrStephenBoyce #FACTSPodcast

The Book of Enoch has fascinated Christians, historians, and conspiracy theorists alike. Quoted in the New Testament and preserved in ancient manuscripts, it raises the question: If it’s so important, why isn’t it in the Bible?

In this episode, Stephen Boyce will break down the three major Enochic writings—1 Enoch, 2 Enoch, and 3 Enoch—exploring their origins, contents, and influence. We’ll cover why the Ethiopian Orthodox Church includes 1 Enoch in its canon, why the rest of Christianity does not, and what early Jewish and Christian communities thought of these books.

Drawing from historical evidence, manuscript studies, and centuries of canon debates, we’ll look at:

• The difference between canonical Scripture and pseudepigrapha

• The limited and regional reception of Enoch

• Why its absence from the Hebrew Bible matters

• How the New Testament uses 1 Enoch without affirming it as Scripture

• Theological and textual reasons for its exclusion

If you’ve ever wondered about the Watchers, Azazel, or why Jude quotes Enoch, this episode will give you the historical and theological clarity you need.

If you'd like to donate to our ministry or be a monthly partner that receives newsletters and one on one discussions with Dr. Boyce, here's a link: https://give.tithe.ly/?formId=6381a2ee-b82f-42a7-809e-6b733cec05a7

⸻

#BookOfEnoch #Enoch #BiblicalCanon #BibleHistory #Apocrypha #Pseudepigrapha #Watchers #Azazel #1Enoch #2Enoch #3Enoch #AncientManuscripts #EthiopianOrthodox #BiblicalStudies #ChurchHistory #DeadSeaScrolls #BiblePodcast #ChristianPodcast #TheologyPodcast #CanonDebates #StephenBoyce

Did the earliest Christians believe that salvation was permanent and irreversible? In this episode of FACTS, Stephen Boyce, with special guest Jack Bull, examines what the Apostolic Fathers actually taught about eternal security, falling away, and the necessity of perseverance in the faith.

We explore key texts from the Didache, 1 Clement, 2 Clement, the Epistle of Barnabas, Ignatius of Antioch, Polycarp, and the Shepherd of Hermas—highlighting how the early Church warned believers about the real danger of apostasy and the importance of obedience, repentance, and endurance.

If you’ve been told that the doctrine of “Once Saved, Always Saved” has historical roots, this episode may surprise you. The message from the early Church is consistent and clear: Salvation is not a free pass. It’s a call to a lifelong, faithful walk with Christ.

#OnceSavedAlwaysSaved #EternalSecurity #ApostolicFathers #Didache #IgnatiusOfAntioch #ShepherdOfHermas #Polycarp #ChurchFathers #EarlyChurch #ChristianTheology #ConditionalSecurity #SalvationDoctrine #FallFromGrace #StephenBoyce #FACTSPodcast #ChristianHistory #BiblicalTruth #PerseveranceOfTheSaints #FaithAndWorks #Patristics #JackBull

Stephen's writings: https://independent.academia.edu/StephenBoyce4

Here is a link to Dr Bull's channel: https://www.youtube.com/@Patristica

👉 Don’t forget to like and share if you want more historical and biblical theology from the early Church!

In this episode of FACTS, Stephen Boyce and Pat May explore one of the most striking Marian images in all of Scripture—Revelation 12. Was the Apostle John given a heavenly vision of the bodily assumed Virgin Mary? And is the Queen of Heaven not merely a title, but a reality rooted in biblical prophecy and fulfilled in Christ’s glorified Mother?

Stephen and Pat walk through the imagery, theology, and early Church interpretations of this apocalyptic vision. They also address common Protestant objections and show how the assumption and queenship of Mary harmonize with Scripture, not contradict it.

If you'd like to donate to our ministry or be a monthly partner that receives newsletters and one on one discussions with Dr. Boyce, here's a link: https://give.tithe.ly/?formId=6381a2ee-b82f-42a7-809e-6b733cec05a7

#FACTSPodcast #StephenBoyce #PatMay #QueenOfHeaven #AssumptionOfMary #Revelation12 #BiblicalMariology #CatholicTheology #MaryInTheBible #Theotokos #JohnsVision #Apocalypse #ChurchFathers #HeavenlyLiturgicalVision #MarianDoctrine

In this episode, Pat and Stephen continue their deep dive into the Book of Revelation by exploring one of its most misunderstood passages—Revelation 7 and 14. Dispensationalist interpretations have long treated the 144,000 as a literal number of ethnic Jews, but this reading misses the rich, symbolic, and liturgical meaning rooted in the Church’s historic understanding. Join us as we unpack the heavenly vision given to John and show how the imagery of sealed servants, white-robed multitudes, and Mount Zion reveals far more than end-times speculation—it reveals the worship of heaven made manifest on earth.

If you'd like to donate to our ministry or be a monthly partner that receives newsletters and one on one discussions with Dr. Boyce, here's a link: https://give.tithe.ly/?formId=6381a2ee-b82f-42a7-809e-6b733cec05a7

#BiblicalSymbolism #CatholicTheology #OnEarthAsItIsInHeaven #Apocalypse #HeavenlyWorship #TheologyPodcast #FACTS #Numerology

In a recent video, Gavin Ortlund argues that the universal Church’s understanding of infant baptism is largely built on Augustine’s influence, suggesting that earlier views were inconsistent and unstable. In this episode, I challenge that claim head-on. By examining Pelagius’s letter to Pope Innocent I and the Council of Carthage’s response to the Donatists, we’ll see that the Church’s commitment to infant baptism was already clear and theologically grounded. Ironically, even Pelagius, Augustine’s theological opponent, affirms the necessity of infant baptism and that arrogant heretics wouldn't even deny the redemptive necessity of issuing baptism to children.

If you'd like to donate to our ministry or be a monthly partner that receives newsletters and one on one discussions with Dr. Boyce, here's a link: https://give.tithe.ly/?formId=6381a2ee-b82f-42a7-809e-6b733cec05a7

Here is a link to Gavin's video: https://youtu.be/3WE0Ea2ke_c?si=iVcISjh7AVoesgJG

#Pelagius #Augustine #InfantBaptism #ChurchHistory #GavinOrtlund #BaptismDebate #EarlyChurch #CouncilOfCarthage #PopeInnocent #CatholicTheology #Patristics #BaptismMatters #UniversalChurch #ContraGavin #PelagianControversy #ApostolicFaith #theFACTSPodcast

In Episode 2, Pat and Stephen turn to both the Old Testament and New Testament to explore John’s breathtaking vision of heaven in the Book of Revelation. They discuss how this scene reveals the heavenly liturgy—the worship of God by angels, elders, and living creatures—and how it reflects the reality of the communion of saints. From incense-filled prayers to the Lamb at the center of the throne, this episode unpacks the connection between heaven and earth, showing how our worship joins the eternal praise of the heavenly assembly.

If you'd like to donate to our ministry or be a monthly partner that receives newsletters and one on one discussions with Dr. Boyce, here's a link: https://give.tithe.ly/?formId=6381a2ee-b82f-42a7-809e-6b733cec05a7

Here is a link to the shorts shared at the beginning: https://youtu.be/5QV0LNIGVWc?si=4Xr_riu9RBksX3ST

#HeavenlyLiturgy #CommunionOfSaints #FACTS #ChristianWorship #ChurchFathers #LiturgicalTheology #ApocalypticVision #OnEarthAsItIsInHeaven #WorshipInHeaven #ChristianPodcast #DeepDiveBibleStudy #EarlyChurch #TheologyTalk #ScriptureAndTradition

In this episode, Stephen and Pat dive into Revelation chapters 1–3 and explore the rich liturgical themes woven throughout the text. From the doxologies and priestly imagery of chapter 1 to the structured exhortations and heavenly promises in the letters to the seven churches, these chapters reveal early Christian worship in action. We discuss how the text reflects not just prophecy, but a vision of the Church gathered in reverence, repentance, and praise—uniting earthly worship with the heavenly assembly.

If you'd like to donate to our ministry or be a monthly partner that receives newsletters and one on one discussions with Dr. Boyce, here's a link: https://give.tithe.ly/?formId=6381a2ee-b82f-42a7-809e-6b733cec05a7

#Revelation #EarlyChurch #ChristianWorship #LiturgicalTheology #SevenChurches #ScriptureAndTradition #ChurchFathers #ApocalypticTheology #NewTestamentStudies #FaithAndLiturgy #WorshipMatters #DeepDiveBibleStudy #LiturgicalWorship #FACTS

Many Christians grow up believing that “old-time religion” — revival preaching, altar calls, and King James Bibles — represents the original faith of the apostles. But what happens when that version of Christianity is held up against the witness of the early Church?

This episode explores the journey from Fundamentalist Baptist roots to the historic Apostolic Church. It highlights the convictions that Fundamentalism gets right — love for Scripture, moral clarity, and evangelistic zeal — while examining where it diverges from the faith practiced and preserved by the early Christians. Listeners are invited to consider key historical questions and to rediscover a Church that predates every modern denomination — a Church that was already ancient long before the first revival tent was ever pitched.

If you'd like to donate to our ministry or be a monthly partner that receives newsletters and one on one discussions with Dr. Boyce, here's a link: https://give.tithe.ly/?formId=6381a2ee-b82f-42a7-809e-6b733cec05a7

#oldtimereligion, #apostolicfaith, #churchhistory, #earlychurch, #fundamentalism, #scriptureandtradition, #churchfathers, #historicchristianity, #bibleandtradition, #apostolicchurch, #christianorigins, #patristics, #ancientfaith, #faithjourney, #reclaimingchristianhistory

In this episode of FACTS, we confront the growing wave of hyper-skepticism that claims the apostles of Jesus never existed—let alone died for their faith. Stephen Boyce examines the historical and textual evidence for the lives, ministries, and martyrdoms of the apostles, drawing from the biblical texts and early Christian sources. Were the apostles invented to prop up a legend, or were they real men whose lives—and deaths—testified to something far more profound? Tune in as we dismantle modern mythicist arguments and make the historical case for the apostolic witness.

If you'd like to donate to our ministry or be a monthly partner that receives newsletters and one on one discussions with Dr. Boyce, here's a link: https://give.tithe.ly/?formId=6381a2ee-b82f-42a7-809e-6b733cec05a7

Here is the link to the response on Inspiring Philosophy: https://www.youtube.com/live/LRUAoLr6Pjo?si=L54tRn1BdLa3POIn

Here is the original link to the claim: https://youtu.be/uhRtSHJt0m8?si=TbvsQaFWKEJ32Vra