2024-03-18T16:20:00+00:00
Ahead of Tolkien Reading Day on 25th March, Dr Holly Ordway, author of Tolkien’s Faith, shares her thoughts about Tolkien’s Catholic faith. She explores the relevance of his work, looking at whether it will stand the test of time.
2024-03-15T16:00:00+00:00
Top apologist, Biola professor, and author Dr. Sean McDowell guest hosts Unbelievable on the topic, ‘Does God truly love everyone?’. Most Christians would say yes. At the heart of Christianity is a declaration that God so loved the world that he gave his only Son to make salvation possible for every single person. But there are very strongly held views across the spectrum about what happens when we die?
2024-03-14T16:57:00+00:00
In today’s Episode theologian and historian Tom Wright looks at listener questions on one of the biggest topics and questions the Christian faith faces today. What is the nature of free will, does Christianity truly offer an answer to the problem of evil and suffering? Will it be possible for there to be another ‘fall’ in the new creation? And the hosts of the Libertarian Christian Podcast have some questions for Tom about living as Christians in today’s world.
2024-03-13T13:43:00+00:00
Author Drew Cordell explores the nature of truth through the lens of a 90s classic movie
2024-03-13T12:00:00+00:00
Alabama’s Supreme Court has ruled that embryos in deep freeze, stored as part of IVF treatment, can be considered as legal children. This unexpected judgement has prompted many clinics to shut their doors, fearing lawsuits, as the storage and eventual destruction of surplus embryos is standard practice in IVF.
2024-03-12T13:00:00+00:00
Jay Y Kim, a pastor in Silicon Valley and author of multiple books including Listen, Listen, Speak, shares his experience of losing and rediscovering his faith. What are some of the reasons people leave the Church or aren’t even remotely interested in the first place? What should we do with our doubts? How do we ensure everyone feels welcome?
2024-03-11T17:00:00+00:00
The microphone is turned on Ruth Jackson as she is interviewed by David Bates from Pints With Jack. Originally broadcast in 2021 just after the launch of The CS Lewis Podcast, Ruth shares the vision behind why and how it started. Plus, shout about the show to win yourself a free copy of CS Lewis: A Life by Professor Alister McGrath.
2024-03-11T15:08:00+00:00
Joel Furches looks at the impact of Paul Copan’s book Is God a Moral Monster?, written in response to Richard Dawkins’ accusation that “the God of the Old Testament is arguably the most unpleasant character in all fiction”
2024-03-08T16:46:00+00:00
Where is God to be found when facing the no-joke reality of a terminal diagnosis for cancer? Two comedians, who are both Christians, are facing just this challenge. This discussion between Steve Legg and Allan Finnegan hosted by Andy Kind will transform the way you think about terminal illness. This uplifting show explores why two men in the prime of life feel closer to God than before they received their devastating diagnoses.
2024-03-08T10:20:00+00:00
This International Women’s Day, Lauren Windle, author of Notes on Feminism unpacks what true feminism means, exploring how that matches up with Christianity
2024-03-07T16:44:00+00:00
How should Christians think about the place of Israel today? Do the Jewish people still have a distinct role in God’s purposes? The Bible says Jesus will return ‘soon’, so why hasn’t he?
2024-03-07T15:09:00+00:00
Erik Strandness reflects on a show featuring musician Michael Gungor and pastor Evan Wickham on millennials, music and mystical deconstruction
2024-03-06T15:27:00+00:00
Medical Assistance in Dying: Judicial activism, suicidal ideation, reasons to stay alive, and Hippocrates’ successful medical practice
2024-03-05T13:28:00+00:00
Renowned makeup artist Hannah Martin explores how to support people who find Mother’s Day difficult for a plethora of different reasons. She bravely shares her own journey of losing her mother and her heart-breaking struggle with infertility and miscarriage. Are there practical ways churches can support those who are grieving? How do we celebrate Mothering Sunday in a sensitive way? Where can we look for hope?
2024-03-04T16:48:00+00:00
Dr Jason Lepojärvi, CS Lewis associate professor of theology and literature at George Fox University and director of the CS Lewis Initiative, gives us a sneak peak into some undiscovered elements of Lewis. Did he have a theological blind spot? Why are people still so interested in him? Plus, discover more about the inaugural Undiscovered CS Lewis conference in Oregon.
2024-03-01T14:55:00+00:00
In the second of two shows on the most googled questions about God, Ruth Jackson continues her conversation with Bruce Miller, author of The 7 Big Questions: Searching for God, Truth, and Purpose.
2024-03-01T11:13:00+00:00
As we approach Mother’s Day, Hannah Martin, who has made up some of the world’s most famous faces, shares her thoughts on how to support those who may be struggling
2024-02-29T17:03:00+00:00
What is the doctrine of the Trinity? Is the Trinity key to being a Christian? Is the doctrine of Baptism an essential? And should we be baptised if we’ve been christened? Tom Wright addresses these questions and more in this episode.
2024-02-28T16:21:00+00:00
Culture is increasingly interested in psychedelic drugs. Whether it’s Silicon Valley execs micro-dosing LSD to turbocharge their meetings, Americans booking ayahuasca weekends in Mexico, or rafts of studies suggesting ketamine can really help in treating depression, we’re all taking drugs much more seriously than any time since the 1960s counterculture.
2024-02-27T16:16:00+00:00
Hannah Martin, “the queen of radiant skin and smoky eye tutorials” (British Vogue) and world-class makeup artist to the stars, shares her philosophy on beauty.
2024-02-27T11:26:00+00:00
Dr Anjeanette ‘AJ’ Roberts is a microbiologist and a Christian. Joel Furches spoke to her about her faith and career
2024-02-26T14:19:00+00:00
In this final episode on The Space Trilogy, Alister McGrath finishes his discussion on That Hideous Strength, looking particularly at how evil emerges and how we stop technology, such as AI and nuclear weapons, getting out of control.
2024-02-23T16:10:00+00:00
Occult-inspired imagery and storylines pervade much of popular culture. Horror has become mainstream. The debate is on entertainment choices for Christians. Should Christians watch whatever they want?
2024-02-23T15:00:00+00:00
Dave Glander’s broken childhood was one of the many factors that led to his staunch atheism. However, his worldview was dramatically shaken in a moment of desperation. Jana Harmon shares his story
2024-02-22T16:09:00+00:00
Heaven and Hell are the topic of today’s podcast with Tom Wright answering your questions about the afterlife. What is the nature of hell and what does Tom believe about it? What can be said about annihilationist or universalist views? If our loved one’s aren’t with us in heaven, can we be happy there? These and more listener questions get addressed by Tom Wright in this episode.
2024-02-21T12:41:00+00:00
A listener has emailed in his dilemma off the back of our recent series of episodes: His small evangelical church teaches a traditional Christian message on relationships and marriage, yet offers single members like him no opportunities to meet like-minded women. Is it OK for him to turn to dating apps to fish in a deeper pool, or are the apps unavoidably commodifying his sisters in Christ and conforming him to secular cultural ethics on relationships?
2024-02-20T18:00:00+00:00
Apologist Joel Furches explores the history of Jehovah’s Witnesses and their central beliefs. Are they a Christian cult or just another denomination?
2024-02-20T10:00:00+00:00
What does the image of God say about our sexuality? What does that mean for single people? Did Jesus get erections? How did his sexual safeness help to heal people’s broken sexuality? What did Jesus say about sex? How does God bring restoration? Rev Dr Michael Lloyd, co-author of Image Bearers, shares his thoughts.
2024-02-19T16:00:00+00:00
Alister McGrath looks at what Lewis thought of women, sexuality and marriage. Are any of the characters in That Hideous Strength based on people Lewis knew? What was he trying to convey through their depiction?
2024-02-16T16:05:00+00:00
Bruce Miller, author of The 7 Big Questions: Searching for God, Truth, and Purpose, tackles two huge questions: is Christianity too narrow and is Jesus really God? He also explores whether Jesus really rose from the dead.
2024-02-16T15:29:00+00:00
Author Drew Cordell looks at why Christianity is worth investigating
2024-02-15T14:19:00+00:00
What happens to those who don’t believe in Jesus? What can I say to my New Age sister? My Muslim friend gets so much comfort from her faith… do I need to evangelise her? These and more listener questions get addressed by Tom Wright in this episode.
2024-02-14T16:41:00+00:00
Our four-part series on the deeper narrative of the Bible comes to an end with New Creation. Just as with the beginning of the story, this final chapter is often overlooked in many churches and the Christian narrative is compressed simply to fall and redemption.
2024-02-13T18:00:00+00:00
Valentine’s Day and Ash Wednesday fall on the same day this year. Author Lauren Windle reflects on this unlikely compatibility and ponders what it means for us
2024-02-13T10:26:00+00:00
As we approach Lent, Rt Rev Prof NT Wright shares his thoughts on how Lent emerged, why it’s significant and what it means for us today
2024-02-13T09:48:00+00:00
Rev Dr Michael Lloyd, co-author of Image Bearers, explores how the image of God shapes our understanding of what it is to be human. Is secular psychology sufficient? Why is restoration necessary? How does community help? Why is diversity so important?
2024-02-12T16:16:00+00:00
Alister McGrath continues to discuss the final book of CS Lewis’ science fiction trilogy. What are Lewis’ thoughts on education? Was he anti-modern? Does the abolition of God necessarily lead to the abolition of humanity?
2024-02-12T10:09:00+00:00
Younger generations hunger for a better world. Christian speaker Sara Stevenson, in a recent Premier Unbelievable podcast, argues that this goal is best understood using the truth of the Christian worldview
2024-02-09T15:23:00+00:00
This week on Premier Unbelievable, the question of whether Jesus is God is explored, a topic that often divides Muslims and Christians. The show revisits a conversation featuring Dr. Abdulla Galadari, author of ‘Quranic Hermeneutics,’ and Dr. Joshua Sijuwade, a Visiting Lecturer at the London School of Theology.
2024-02-09T15:00:00+00:00
11th February marks Racial Justice Sunday in the UK. Clare Williams, founder of Real Questions, looks at why we must challenge both external injustices and the flaws within our own hearts, and how the cross of Jesus brings us hope
2024-02-08T13:29:00+00:00
In this episode, Tom answers listener questions on prayer and shares some of his own habits and approaches to praying – If God knows our needs, what’s the point of prayer? Can we claim ‘anything’ by faith in Jesus name? What do Tom’s prayer habits look like? These and more listener questions on today’s show.
2024-02-07T15:35:00+00:00
A listener has emailed in two excellent questions in response to our recent episode looking at egg freezing. What happens to the leftover eggs which are frozen but never reimplanted, and can Christians be relaxed about this intrinsic wastefulness of the process?
2024-02-07T15:27:00+00:00
John Van Sloten, author of God Speaks Science, looks at why science is one of the Church’s greatest allies. Read his first and second instalments of this mini-series here – ‘Jesus speaks supernovae’ and ‘Does God still bring water from rocks?’
2024-02-06T10:00:00+00:00
In his second instalment (read part 1 ‘Jesus speaks supernovae’ here), John Van Sloten, author of God Speaks Science, shares how God uses both the Bible and creation to reach us
2024-02-06T10:00:00+00:00
In this final episode with evangelist Phil Knox, we explore friendship with God. Can God be our friend? How do we prioritise and pursue the presence of God? Must we ensure the Lord Almighty doesn’t become the Lord Almatey?
2024-02-05T15:58:00+00:00
Alister McGrath explores how CS Lewis addresses the perceived conflict between God and science. What insights can Lewis give about pertinent issues such as the atomic age, eugenics and Artificial Intelligence? When does technology becomes technocracy and why was Tolkien so anti tech? What are some of the ways religion is being challenged and how does Lewis expose these critiques?
2024-02-02T16:51:00+00:00
Welcome to another thought-provoking episode of Premier Unbelievable! This week, brace yourselves for a captivating dialogue between two individuals with starkly divergent perspectives on Christianity, the existence of God, and the very essence of truth.
2024-02-02T16:41:00+00:00
John Van Sloten, author of God Speaks Science, reflects on a conversation with a Mars Rover researcher
2024-02-01T14:54:00+00:00
From the archives: We hope you’ll enjoy this pastoral episode with Tom as he addresses pressing questions on challenging family dynamics, navigating unforgiveness, and a candid exploration of faith struggles from a church pastor. Plus, a somewhat soulful touch as Tom shares a song again for us, with a rendition of a Leonard Cohen’s classic on the guitar.
2024-01-31T16:23:00+00:00
In this episode we look at what evidence there is for the idea of a gender gap in church, and then discuss what may have caused it. Are men and women fundamentally so different they worship God and are discipled in radically different ways?
2024-01-30T13:37:00+00:00
Evangelist Phil Knox continues sharing his top tips for making and maintaining friends. Why is diversity so important in friendship? How do we get the balance of fun and vulnerability? What can we learn from Jesus’ friendships?
2024-01-30T13:00:00+00:00
Discussions have recently taken place in the UK Parliament around various aspects of the Criminal Justice Bill, including the potential decriminalisation of abortion. Erik Strandness, who has over 20 years’ experience in neonatal medicine, reflects on the thorny issue of abortion
2024-01-29T17:15:00+00:00
Alister McGrath continues to dive into some of the key themes in the final book of CS Lewis’ science fiction trilogy. What will happen to the human race? How can we change our future? What is the point of scientific experimentation? Alister also looks at how Lewis engages with HG Wells.
2024-01-29T12:07:00+00:00
Is modern technology to blame for our current mental health crisis? Should we just ditch our phones? Or can they be a force for good? Author Drew Cordell shares his thoughts
2024-01-26T16:35:00+00:00
This week in the UK, discussions are taking place in Parliament around various aspects of the Criminal Justice Bill. One of the most contentious areas is around a couple of tabled amendments that would remove offences that make it illegal for a woman to perform a self-abortion at any point through to birth.
2024-01-26T14:43:00+00:00
The demands of modern life have become a self-imposed prison. Erik Strandness reflects on the discussion between Alan Noble and Kelly Kapic on Unbelievable?, and the psychosis of maintaining our “self-made” image instead of the one God has given us.
2024-01-25T16:40:00+00:00
In this replay from the Archives we’re diving into questions of Church Unity, Denominations, Worship and questions facing the Modern Church. Is attending church essential for being a Christian? What shapes our theology of worship? How do we navigate our denominational choices?
2024-01-25T11:38:00+00:00
To mark Holocaust Memorial Day on 27th January, Steve Maltz from Saltshakers – a Christian ministry witnessing to the Jewish roots of the Christian faith – shares his thoughts about why this day is more important than ever in light of current events
2024-01-24T12:38:00+00:00
Join us as we tackle listener questions on the ethical line crossed with euthanasia legalisation and the contradiction of suicide prevention. Can this worldview stand? We’ll also discuss finding unbiased news amidst conspiracy theories and commercial concerns.
2024-01-24T09:42:00+00:00
How do we tackle the difficult topic of suffering? Philosopher Dr Vince Vitale shares a number of approaches
2024-01-23T12:04:00+00:00
January can be a particularly difficult time for those facing mental health struggles. Rev Prebendary Dr Isabelle Hamley, co-author of Struggling With God, explores how Jesus’ response to Bartimeus can help inform our thinking in this area
2024-01-23T12:04:00+00:00
Evangelist Phil Knox, author of Story Bearer and The Best of Friends, shares why personal tragedy and the COVID pandemic led him to write a book about friendship. Why does friendship matter? How do we protect our friendships from modern pressures? And how do we help young people to engage healthily with technology and social media?
2024-01-22T16:05:00+00:00
Professor Alister McGrath explores the final book of CS Lewis’ space trilogy, That Hideous Strength, looking at some of its key themes, characters and questions. How is it a “modern fairy tale for grownups”? And why is this significant? Was Lewis’ narrative influenced by any of the other Inklings, such as JRR Tolkien?
2024-01-19T17:41:00+00:00
Andy Kind hosts today’s Unbelievable where the debate topic is Does Secular Humanism or Christianity offer a brighter future for the UK?
2024-01-18T13:38:00+00:00
Join Tom in this replay episode from the archives as he addresses listener’s questions on navigating conversations about sexuality within the church, co-habitation, and the evolving understanding of homosexuality in the New Testament and today. With insights into Tom’s perspective on LGBTQI+ and transgender issues, inspired by a letter to The Times newspaper.
2024-01-18T13:26:00+00:00
Whose fault is it when people deconstruct? What can we do about it? How do we help them to move forward? Erik Strandness reflects on deconstruction and reconstruction following an Unbelievable show on this topic
2024-01-17T16:12:00+00:00
Increasing numbers of women are choosing to freeze their eggs in the hope that years down the line they can use these younger, healthier eggs to have children once their relationship, personal, financial or work circumstances are right.
2024-01-16T15:57:00+00:00
In the final part of this discussion, Rev Andrew Gosler, professor of Ethno-ornithology at Oxford University, explores whether we can reconcile the Bible and a scientific worldview. He also shares how he became a priest in the Church of England.
2024-01-16T08:38:00+00:00
The horrific terror attack of 9/11 cemented in Patrick Flynn’s mind that religion was not only untrue and irrelevant, but also troublesome. Jana Harmon explores how rigorous study and existential questions led Pat to change his mind
2024-01-15T12:41:00+00:00
Associate Professor Sarah Irving-Stonebraker shares how significant CS Lewis was in her journey from atheism to Christianity. As an academic historian, she explores how great books speak to ever-present questions and looks at why the past matters. Why is Lewis still relevant 60 years after his death?
2024-01-12T15:59:00+00:00
Today on Unbelievable? Andy Kind hosts the first part of an occasional series on the topic of women in the church, how women are portrayed in the Bible, and questions around women in ministry. Why do women often feel unequal to men in Church? There are plenty of differing views and we will cover a number of them in the coming months.
2024-01-11T15:09:00+00:00
As we dive into the new year here’s a replay from the podcast archives, where Tom Wright answers listener questions on how to interpret the early chapters of Genesis, what he believes about the nature of Adam and Eve, and whether suffering and death existed before the fall… Tom also pulls out the guitar once more for a Bob-Dylan x Genesis story song.
2024-01-10T15:40:00+00:00
As we embark on a new year, author Drew Cordell reflects on the relevance of God in Western society
2024-01-10T11:36:00+00:00
A final classic episode to see us through the Christmas and New Year break. Today we’re returning to an interview with NHS geneticist Melody Redman.
2024-01-09T12:09:00+00:00
Rev Andrew Gosler, professor of Ethno-ornithology at Oxford University, highlights some of the deficiencies he sees in Richard Dawkins’ work. He also shares the potential limitations and dangers of a neo-Darwinian framing of evolution, such as racism and eugenics.
2024-01-08T17:44:00+00:00
Journalist Heather Tomlinson reflects on a recent Big Conversation between Alex O’Connor and Ben Shapiro and ponders if the question of whether religion is beneficial leads to whether it is true
2024-01-08T12:06:00+00:00
In the second part of his discussion about why The Narnia Chronicles make him cry, evangelist Phil Knox looks at why Prince Caspian contains one of the best definitions of evangelism.
2024-01-05T18:00:00+00:00
This week on Unbelievable we return to the topic of free will. Following the debate between Ben Shapiro and Alex O’Connor, Christian apologist Tim Stratton got in touch to say he took issue with some of Alex’s arguments against free will.
2024-01-03T17:00:00+00:00
Today we’re returning to a classic episode from our back catalogue, with special guest Sophie Guthrie-Kummer from Choices, a Christian crisis pregnancy centre in London.
2024-01-02T13:00:00+00:00
Rev Andrew Gosler, professor of Ethno-ornithology at Oxford University, shares how working in the same department as Richard Dawkins and reading his publications eventually led him to become a Christian. Plus, he shares a fascinating story about answered prayer.
2024-01-02T09:38:00+00:00
Journalist and former White House staffer Peter Wehner reflects on truth, morality and politics
2024-01-01T17:00:00+00:00
”Daddy, why are you crying? It’s only a lion!” Evangelist Phil Knox shares his experience of reading The Narnia Chronicles with his young son and the impact these books have had on his own life. Why is The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe significant for so many people? And how does The Horse and his Boy depict the Christian story so profoundly?
2023-12-29T16:32:00+00:00
In this episode, top British comedian and writer Milton Jones and Baptist minister, comedian and semi-finalist of Britain’s Got Talent, Allan Finnegan, offer a captivating behind-the-scenes glimpse into their world.
2023-12-28T17:18:00+00:00
In this replay from the podcast archives, Tom answers listener questions about his role as Senior Research Fellow at Wycliffe Hall Oxford, his work habits and his love of classical music… plus a Christmas question or two.
2023-12-27T16:30:00+00:00
In this episode we consider the communication and changing narratives around climate change, why an unscientific hyper-fatalism has set in with many activists, and what impact this might be having on younger generations terrified humanity itself is going extinct.
2023-12-26T17:00:00+00:00
In this Christmas special, Ruth Jackson speaks to an atheist who loves Christmas, but not Christ. They discuss whether atheists should celebrate a festival focussed on someone they don’t believe in. Plus, we hear from entrepreneur Jonathan Self who became a Christian largely through Christmas. Why was the festive period so significant and what difference has Jesus made in his life?
2023-12-25T12:00:00+00:00
David Bates of Pints With Jack shares his final thoughts with Ruth Jackson about CS Lewis and Christmas. Is there a particular food or drink Lewis would have enjoyed? What advice would he give about surviving the festive season? Plus, which of Lewis’ works would David recommend reading over the holiday period?
2023-12-21T15:02:00+00:00
Tom Wright responds to audiences questions about Christmas and the birth narratives, the reliability of the gospels, Bart Ehrman on textual transmission, the dating of the gospels, and whether the Ascension actually happened as described.
2023-12-21T10:02:00+00:00
Jana Harmon shares the story of former sceptic Susan Leonard who saw no need for faith until a personal tragedy led to a profound encounter with God
2023-12-21T06:00:00+00:00
Author Ben Harris shares some thoughts on how to bring the Christmas story to life this Christmas
2023-12-20T14:02:00+00:00
Our year-end Q&A episode as we discuss hot topics: Wegovy, the controversial anti-obesity drug and the debate on extending the 14-day limit on human embryo research
2023-12-19T13:37:00+00:00
Writer Steve Schramm explores whether the Nativity story can be trusted
2023-12-19T13:32:00+00:00
Author Drew Cordell ponders what it might mean for those who believe “Jesus is the reason for the season” to abandon 25th December all together
2023-12-19T11:25:00+00:00
In the final part of his discussion with Ruth Jackson, Bishop Arun Arora, author of Stick With Love, looks at some modern day saints including former Archbishop John Sentamu, Stormzy, Cardinal Van Thuân and Rev Dr Florence Li Tim-Oi. Why did Stormzy’s mum skip his Glastonbury performance to go to church? And how does the Christmas story speak hope to a dark world?
2023-12-19T11:14:00+00:00
Erik Strandness reflects on a recent Big Conversation discussion asking whether religion is good or bad for society
2023-12-18T15:56:00+00:00
What did CS Lewis say about Christmas? David Bates from Pints With Jack discusses some of Lewis’ poetry and prose on this topic. What did he mean by the “commercial racket” of Christmas? How does he depict the incarnation? And what is the significance of Father Christmas in the Narnia Chronicles?
2023-12-18T10:21:00+00:00
An apologetics video training course with Ruth Jackson, Professor NT Wright, Dr. Lydia McGrew, Dr. Amy Orr-Ewing and Dr. Darrell L. Bock among others from Premier Unbelievable?
2023-12-15T15:56:00+00:00
Bridget Supple, an antenatal teacher and author of The Birthkeeper of Bethlehem, shares her perspective on the often-neglected account of the midwife in the Christmas birth narratives
2023-12-15T15:51:00+00:00
Vince Vitale hosts this timely discussion around faith and politics, with Pete Wehner, journalist and senior fellow at Trinity Forum and Jonathan Rauch who is a senior fellow at the Brookings Institute. The topic is Should faith and politics mix?
2023-12-15T10:16:00+00:00
Professor Alister McGrath shares his thoughts about how Lewis perceived the festive season and what we can learn from him
2023-12-14T17:13:00+00:00
From the archives: Tom answers listener questions around if we should eat meat, whether we’ll all be vegan in the new creation and if violent protest is ever acceptable
2023-12-13T16:30:00+00:00
Creation. Fall. Redemption. New Creation. Our series on the theological foundations of Christian ethics and the grand narrative of the Bible has reached the third chapter – redemption.
2023-12-12T18:00:00+00:00
Who was the real Saint Nicholas? Why was he so passionate about Jesus’ divinity? And why does it matter who Jesus is? Bishop Arun Arora, author of Stick With Love shares his thoughts on a number of saints and looks at how to address the problem of unanswered prayer. How does the Christmas story speak to our suffering? Plus, we hear how God transformed George Floyd’s life while he was in prison and what what can we learn from his life and tragic death.
2023-12-11T16:16:00+00:00
David Bates from Pints With Jack shares some of CS Lewis’ thoughts about Christmas. What are some of his key works that elucidate this topic? Did the festive period lose its significance when Lewis became an atheist? Plus, we catch up on how the inaugural CS Lewis Reading Day went last month.
2023-12-11T11:41:00+00:00
Author Catherine Campbell looks at what God says about elderly people
2023-12-08T15:08:00+00:00
Richard Swinburne and Philip Goff debate why are we here? Is it time we moved on from both God and Atheism, as Goff suggests in his new book Why? The Purpose of the Universe? Unbelievable Host Vince Vitale guides us through as Goff argues that the traditional God is a bad explanation of cosmic purpose. Instead, he explores a range of alternative possibilities for accounting for cosmic purpose, from the speculation that we live in a computer simulation to the hypothesis that the universe itself is a conscious mind.
2023-12-07T17:08:00+00:00
From the archives: Tom answers listener questions on the prevalence of conspiracy theories, US church support for Trump and the failed prophecies of his returning to power
2023-12-06T16:01:00+00:00
A couple of years ago we interviewed Sarah Foot, a Christian palliative care doctor. She spoke about how she treats the physical, mental, social and even spiritual needs of those who are dying, the Christian foundations of the discipline, and what impact her profession has on her.
2023-12-05T11:10:00+00:00
Does it matter what Jesus looked like? Bishop Arun Arora, author of the Archbishop of York’s Advent book Stick With Love, shares his thoughts about a poll that voted Jesus the greatest black icon of all time. Plus, he suggests why asking someone where they’re really from demonstrates an otherness, which unhelpfully seeks to distinguish rather than unify.
2023-12-05T10:46:00+00:00
Retired vicar Graham Buttanshaw wrote to the BBC to complain about some of the assumptions made in their Earth series
2023-12-04T17:00:00+00:00
In the final part of their discussion on whether CS Lewis is still relevant 60 years after his death, Professor Alister McGrath and Ruth Jackson ponder whether he also appeals to agnostics, atheists and those of other religions. Plus, is there a modern-day CS Lewis? Where should someone start if they are engaging with Lewis for the first time? And will Lewis ever cease to be relevant?
2023-12-01T17:00:00+00:00
In this bonus episode of The Big Conversation’ formidable Daily Wire host and renowned political thinker Ben Shapiro goes head-to-head with Oxford graduate of philosophy and theology, now international public speaker and debater, Alex O’Connor. Hosted by Andy Kind, Shapiro and O’Connor debate Is religion good or bad for society? What is the concept of free will? Does it even exist? What about the idea of the self, and the foundations of morality in society, and do we all have to agree on them?
2023-12-01T15:27:00+00:00
Charity worker Simon Foulds shares why he thinks a new framework for mission is needed
2023-11-30T17:00:00+00:00
From the archives: In this second of a two-part episode series looking at the question of Suffering, Tom shares his thoughts on heart-breaking pastoral questions from listeners around how to respond to grief and mental health.
2023-11-29T17:00:00+00:00
New official data in England reveals an alarming and much under-reported phenomenon – significant increases in mortality among children from the most deprived communities over the last two years.
2023-11-29T14:53:00+00:00
Spanish musician Pedro Garcia’s atheism was profoundly shaken when he began to engage with intelligent Christians. Jana Harmon shares his story
2023-11-28T11:12:00+00:00
Bishop Arun Arora, author of the Archbishop of York’s Advent book Stick With Love, shares how a young Brummie with a Sikh dad and Hindu mum became a Christian through Billy Graham. Having been in the Church for 30 years before he saw another Asian man in Church leadership, Arun shares why he and the Archbishop of York have such a strong commitment to racial justice.
2023-11-27T17:22:00+00:00
Professor Alister McGrath and Ruth Jackson continue their discussion about whether CS Lewis is still relevant. Was he something of a prophet? What can we learn about the way Lewis engaged with modern media? How did he make complicated theological concepts relatable? In what ways has Lewis influenced our culture and is he able to speak to contemporary topical issues, such as transgenderism?
2023-11-27T13:45:00+00:00
CS Lewis podcaster, David Bates, shares why he helped initiate a campaign to commemorate Lewis with an annual Reading Day on November 29th
2023-11-24T14:16:00+00:00
The Pope shares his thoughts on how we can be people of hope in a world that desperately needs it
2023-11-24T14:05:00+00:00
Ruth Jackson hosts a discussion about a 20th Century British writer and lay theologian who is arguably one of the most influential voices in modern Christianity. On November 22nd 1963, Clive Staples Lewis – Jack to his friends – died in Oxford, England. However, 60 years after his death, is CS Lewis still relevant?
2023-11-23T15:08:00+00:00
From the archives: In this first episode looking at the question of Suffering, Tom shares his thoughts on the difficult questions listeners have around issues such as dementia, death, the global pandemic and whether God himself suffers.
2023-11-22T16:36:00+00:00
This week’s guest is Nick Spencer, senior fellow at the faith thinktank Theos, and recent author of Magisteria: The entangled histories of science and religion.
2023-11-21T12:21:00+00:00
In the final part of their discussion, Dr Amy Orr-Ewing discusses whether we can believe in a virgin birth, why this birth is significant and how we can trust the witness of Mary. Plus, why is justice important to the Christmas story? And, how can Jesus be both fully God and fully man?
2023-11-21T10:26:00+00:00
As we approach a season of thankfulness, author Drew Cordell explores whether it is possible to cultivate gratitude in the void
2023-11-21T10:19:00+00:00
On November 22nd 1963, Clive Staples Lewis – Jack to his friends – died in Oxford, England. 60 years after his death, we discuss whether he is still relevant today. Are any of the accusations levelled against Lewis legitimate? Why does he continue to speak to our rationality and imagination? Plus, Professor Alister McGrath shares the influence Lewis had on his own journey of faith.
2023-11-20T11:26:00+00:00
Preston Ulmer, author of Deconstruct Faith, Discover Jesus: How Questioning Your Religion Can Lead You to a Healthy and Holy God, shares his thoughts on how our stance on sex may have caused people to lose their faith
2023-11-17T14:49:00+00:00
Rico Villanueva, Langham Partnership’s regional commissioning editor for Asia, shares how studying the psalms of lament have helped him with his bouts of depression
2023-11-17T14:47:00+00:00
Today we are dipping into the concluding part of a conversation between noted Bible scholar Bart Ehrman and Richard Bauckham who debate each other with Justin Brierley in the hosting seat. This show was recorded following the publication of Ehrman’s 2016 book “Jesus Before the Gospels”.
2023-11-16T16:00:00+00:00
From the archives: Tom answers listener questions around whether shrines are pagan, infant baptism is biblical and how we can live in unity with theological differences around sexuality.
2023-11-15T15:00:00+00:00
This week we dip back into the postbag to look at some more listener questions.
2023-11-15T11:00:00+00:00
Apologist Joel Furches explores the central beliefs of Wicca and looks at its historical relationship with Christianity
2023-11-14T16:47:00+00:00
Dr Amy Orr-Ewing, author of Mary’s Voice, explores the context of Mary, mother of Jesus, and looks at why women play such a significant role in Christianity. Plus, what is the Magnificat, why is it so revolutionary? And how is it relevant today?
2023-11-13T16:00:00+00:00
David Bates and his team at Pints With Jack have helped establish a day to celebrate CS Lewis and his work. His fellow Inkling, JRR Tolkien, already has a special reading day, but “why should the Tolkien nerds have all the fun?”! Listen in to hear why David thinks Lewis is still relevant today and how you can get involved with the inaugural CS Lewis Reading Day on Lewis’ birthday - November 29th.
2023-11-13T15:47:00+00:00
In light of a recent Unbelievable? show discussing whether animals have souls, Erik Strandness examines whether we will ever be reunited with our dead pets
2023-11-10T16:00:00+00:00
This week’s Unbelievable features an insightful discussion featuring two individuals with contrasting LGBTQI+ faith journeys as they delve into the intersection of faith, sexuality, and the Bible. The debate is between two Christians, one gay and one queer, who have arrived at distinctly different interpretations of the Bible’s teachings on sexual ethics, marriage, and human relationships.
2023-11-10T10:32:00+00:00
As we approach Remembrance Day in the UK and Veterans Day in the US, Joel Furches explores whether we should be praying for our military
2023-11-09T15:50:00+00:00
From the archives: Tom answers listener questions around gender, women in leadership and the dynamics of family life.
2023-11-08T09:59:00+00:00
We last tackled the idea of friendship when we explored the so-called ‘hermeneutic of suspicion’ – that cloud of concern that today hangs over any close relationship between two people.
2023-11-07T18:00:00+00:00
Dr Amy Orr-Ewing, author of Mary’s Voice, shares the story of her academic father becoming a Christian and how that impacted their whole family. She describes the experience of being grilled by 14 Oxford dons about her theology undergraduate exam papers the day before her wedding! Plus, Amy explains why she is so impacted by the person of Mary, and how her example brings hope in the midst of deep darkness.
2023-11-06T16:17:00+00:00
Ruth Jackson speaks to David Bates from the Pints With Jack podcast about how a local book club became a popular show and website. They discuss how David’s journey with CS Lewis began (“like most people, it began with a wardrobe”) and developed. Plus, what are some of the most surprising things he’s learnt about Lewis?
2023-11-03T15:24:00+00:00
Welcome to the latest episode of Unbelievable? where we confront the challenging relationship between Christianity and anti-Semitism, shedding light on Christianity’s role in the troubling history of prejudice. The show embarks on a profound journey through the intricate history of Biblical Israel and its contemporary implications in the strife-ridden Middle East. In a region marked by breathtaking violence and conflicting narratives, we strive to make sense of both current and historical bloodshed.
2023-11-02T14:45:00+00:00
From 2020: Tom answers listener questions on how to talk to children about tricky things like suffering and hell. Plus, we talk about parenting and discipling children and young people
2023-11-01T17:41:00+00:00
Creation. Fall. Redemption. New Creation. This is the grand narrative of scripture and the theological foundation we use to try to probe into the ethical challenges thrown up by advances in science and technology.
2023-10-31T17:08:00+00:00
In the second part of their discussion, Sarah Irving-Stonebraker shares how she moved from atheism to agnosticism, ending up in a church. What is meaning? How do we find it? Does Christianity have anything to say to our cultural moment?
2023-10-31T11:53:00+00:00By Matt Arnold
Matt Arnold, editor of The Christian Parapsychologist Journal, explores the origins of Halloween and suggests they are firmly rooted in the Church
2023-10-30T16:05:00+00:00By Drew Cordell
Drew Cordell, author of Honest Christianity: Why People Choose to Believe, reflects on the sad passing of Friends actor Matthew Perry
2023-10-30T15:31:00+00:00
Dr Carolyn Weber, author of Surprised by Oxford, shares her fascinating story of coming to faith from atheism at Oxford University. Her journey, which mimics CS Lewis’ own in many ways, has recently been turned into a feature film. What did Lewis mean by “surprised by joy”? Why are stories so powerful? Why has Lewis so often contributed to people’s conversions?
2023-10-27T17:00:00+01:00
Get ready for a spine-tingling edition of Unbelievable. Hosted by Billy Hallowell, we’re diving headfirst into Halloween hysteria. Is it all innocent fun or something more sinister? Join the conversation with ex-healer Angela Ucci, pastor Ray Comfort who after being petrified of Halloween decided to use it to tell people about Jesus. Rounding up the discussion Unbelievable welcomes Matt Arnold, editor of The Christian Parapsychologist Journal. We’ll uncover the mysteries, explore the spiritual realm, and ask the big question: should we celebrate?
2023-10-26T14:40:00+01:00
Tom answers listener questions on the upcoming US election, religious freedom in the case of Christian cake makers, and the concept of ‘white privilege’ in current debates on racial justice. For Tom’s full talk on ‘Undermining Racism’ For Esau McCaulley’s book ‘Reading While Black’
2023-10-25T10:43:00+01:00
We spoke last week about the hugely welcome shift in how society talks about miscarriage and cares for women (and men) who have experienced it. And yet at the same time in Britain, we desperately avoid using the same language and narrative established in baby loss services when we are in the abortion zone.
2023-10-24T17:00:00+01:00
Former atheist-turned Christian Associate Professor Sarah Irving-Stonebraker shares how studying some of the founders of modern science challenged her assumption that religion and science were fundamentally opposed. She also highlights the moment she realised her atheism could no longer sustain her moral commitments.
2023-10-23T15:00:00+01:00
Looking at Perelendra, Alister McGrath explores key questions raised by CS Lewis: What is good? Should we be frightened of God? What is significant about Ransom’s name?
2023-10-23T12:00:00+01:00
Author Mark Roques explores the life of Baptist preacher William Carey
2023-10-20T16:00:00+01:00
In a Premier Unbelievable special, celebrating his 80th birthday, the indomitable Christian apologist, Emeritus Professor of Mathematics, and renowned ethicist, Dr. John Lennox, engages in a candid and unreserved interview with fellow apologist and Oxford-educated theologian, Dr. Amy Orr-Ewing.
2023-10-20T09:40:00+01:00
Athiest Warren Prehmus had no need for God. However, when personal tragedy struck, he began to question his presuppositions and explore Christianity. Researcher Jana Harmon shares his story
2023-10-19T14:32:00+01:00
From the archives: How do we reconcile the New Testament account of Ananias and Sapphira being struck dead with the cross-shaped vision of a God of love? These and other tricky theological questions on original sin, Open Theism and why God considers us ‘worthy’ of his love are answered by Tom.
2023-10-18T11:31:00+01:00
Sam Reimer, professor of sociology and author of Caught in the Current, explores the decline of Christianity in light of the three ways religious groups can grow
2023-10-18T11:12:00+01:00
We have just finished Baby Loss Awareness Week here in the UK. While the event is not hugely well known, it is indicative of an enormous cultural shift in recent decades around how society talks about miscarriage and stillbirth.
2023-10-17T08:33:00+01:00
Rev Dr Michael Lloyd, author of Cafe Theology, shares his story including why he got ordained, how he ended up in academia and why he changed his mind on the ordination of women. He also discusses how to assess the veracity of doctrines and why he believes everyone should study theology.
2023-10-16T15:00:00+01:00
Alister McGrath continues to discuss Perelandra, looking particularly at the topics of evil, suffering, sin, demon possession and divine justice. How can God allow suffering? What can be done to redeem evil?
2023-10-16T13:26:00+01:00
Erik Strandness reviews Justin Brierley’s new book
2023-10-13T16:44:00+01:00
Can you be a serious scientist and believe in God, and even believe in miracles?
2023-10-13T08:45:00+01:00By Joel Furches
Apologist Joel Furches interviewed astronomer Dr Hugh Ross about science and his belief in God
2023-10-12T16:00:00+01:00
From the archives: Tom tackles a variety of questions on ‘hot button’ political issues that have been sent in, including the place of faith in politics, abortion, racism and ‘critical theory’
2023-10-11T15:00:00+01:00
Christianity is sometimes described as ‘bad news for women’. Clearly we would all disagree with this epithet, but why does it have cultural currency right now for a growing number of particularly younger women?
2023-10-11T11:46:00+01:00
Sam Reimer, professor of sociology and author of Caught in the Current, explores how authority, belief and behaviour have changed over the years and the impact this has had on faith
2023-10-10T10:10:00+01:00
In the final part of their discussion, Peter Byrom delves into Dawkins’ argument from complexity, suggesting it may be a circular assumption. They unpack Dawkins’ fascinating exchange with Francis Collins in 2022, where Dawkins admits he may have a presupposition towards materialism. Plus, what does the future hold?
2023-10-09T13:34:00+01:00
Alister McGrath unpacks some of the theology within the second book of the Space Trilogy. What was Lewis’ understanding of the Fall? What if the Fall hadn’t happened? How does he explore the concepts of free will, desire, good, love, truth and demon possession in Perelandra?
2023-10-09T09:00:00+01:00
Dr Eve Poole considers whether we have to learn to be responsible for the souls we are creating now we are creating artificial intelligence and robots in our own image
2023-10-06T12:20:00+01:00
Should we be fearful or make friends with our robot helpers? And how can humans flourish in this brave new world? One of our guests today on Unbelievable believes the hidden power of humans is that we are imperfect yet essential?
2023-10-06T08:28:00+01:00By Jana Harmon
Apologist Jana Harmon shares the story of Neil Placer, who discovered the Christian faith via years of atheism
2023-10-05T16:00:00+01:00
From 2020: In the wake of the news that L’Arche founder Jean Vanier was responsible for sexual abuse of women during his ministry, Tom Wright responded to questions from listeners let down by leaders and the church. Be part of the Ask NT Wright Anything live show in London at Unbelievable?
2023-10-04T15:00:00+01:00
When the pandemic first spread beyond China there was a straightforward message from scientific elites: the virus came from a wild animal accidentally spilling over into humans, and any suggestion it might have instead been manipulated in a lab and then escaped was a quasi-racist conspiracy theory.
2023-10-04T08:10:00+01:00By Erik Strandness
Nasa’s Osiris-Rex returned from a seven-year mission with asteroid Bennu’s dust, aiming to shed light on the Universe’s formation. Erik Strandness examines the project’s theological and philosophical impacts.
2023-10-03T10:00:00+01:00
Peter Byrom continues to share his faith journey as told in the chapter he contributed to Coming to Faith Through Dawkins. He discloses how challenging Richard Dawkins on why he wouldn’t debate William Lane Craig led to him becoming something of a YouTube sensation! Peter also shares why he believes apologetics is important and what the final nail in his atheist coffin was.
2023-10-02T13:15:00+01:00
Apologist Nathan Rittenhouse shares his thoughts on Psalm 8 and its ramifications
2023-10-02T12:29:00+01:00
We continue our conversation on Perelandra, with Alister McGrath reflecting on questions around pleasure, gender and sex. What is gender? Is pleasure always erotic? What did Lewis mean by “transsexual” in this novel?
2023-09-29T11:00:00+01:00
Do we need to reconsider the moral status of animals? What does the Christian worldview tell us about animals? Do we change our attitudes towards animals if we believe they have capacity for pain and pleasure, challenging anthropocentric views, advocating for animal rights, promoting vegetarianism and critiquing speciesism? Or closer to home people often ask ‘will I see my doggie if I get to heaven?’.
2023-09-29T09:02:00+01:00
Journalist Heather Tomlinson continues her exploration on near-death experiences in light of a recent Big Conversation on this topic
2023-09-28T17:00:00+01:00
From 2020: Tom Wright talks about his new book ‘God and the Pandemic’ and takes a variety of live listener questions in this livestream edition of the show. Justin and Lucy Brierley ask Tom questions on racism, other religions, the problem of suffering, heaven and the Gospels, all submitted during the show via Facebook live.
2023-09-28T10:16:00+01:00
Jehu Limma, founder of HopeGiving Foundation, shares his remarkable journey from “untouchable” to helping children out of poverty
2023-09-27T15:10:00+01:00
A listener has emailed in to ask where we stand on alternative medicine, such as homeopathy or chiropractors. Is it fine for believers to partake in these kinds of complementary treatments and therapies, alongside traditional evidence-based scientific medicine? Why are they so stubbornly popular despite mountains of research suggesting they mostly don’t work?
2023-09-26T12:13:00+01:00
Theology student David MacPherson reflects on a recent episode of The Diary of a CEO, where Nir Eyal discussed the benefits of church and a worshipping community
2023-09-26T10:00:00+01:00
In the first episode of this three-part series, Peter Byrom shares his fascinating story as told in the chapter he contributed to Coming to Faith Through Dawkins. He outlines how he encountered the apologist William Lane Craig via the New Atheists and discusses his growing disillusionment with Dawkins’ “devastating” argument from complexity.
2023-09-25T15:30:00+01:00
Professor Alister McGrath explores the second book of CS Lewis’ space trilogy, Perelandra, looking at some of its key themes, characters and questions. Could the Fall have been prevented? What if it hadn’t happened? How did Lewis perceive magic? Where do we find meaning? Is there a limit to science?
2023-09-22T16:00:00+01:00
The Big Conversation - Episode 6 | Season 5
2023-09-21T16:00:00+01:00
From 2020: It’s Eastertide so Tom is answering questions on the resurrection, including one listener who believes that the evidence of the women at the empty tomb has been debunked by modern scholarship.
2023-09-21T12:21:00+01:00
Erik Strandness reflects on deconstruction and reconstruction following an Unbelievable show on this topic
2023-09-20T12:40:00+01:00
Today we start a new series unpacking the theological foundations of much of what we talk about on Matters of Life and Death.
2023-09-19T09:00:00+01:00
Why do many people deem religion irrelevant? What are some of the biggest objections to belief in God? Why are droves of young people leaving the Church? Evangelist Phil Knox shares some of his thoughts about these big topics and gives some tips on how to share your faith effectively.
2023-09-19T09:00:00+01:00
Journalist Heather Tomlinson highlights a number of people whose lives were transformed following a near-death experience
2023-09-18T15:00:00+01:00
In the final episode on Out of the Silent Planet, Alister McGrath explores Lewis’ depiction of humanity, death, evolution and suffering. He also discusses the framework Lewis provides to help us reflect on these big questions.
2023-09-15T15:00:00+01:00
In the second part of their discussion based on the book Coming to Faith Through Dawkins, theologian Alister McGrath and YouTuber Alex O’Connor discuss where we may be heading in regards to religion and atheism.
2023-09-14T16:00:00+01:00
From the archives: Just in time for Easter we bring you a show (recorded before lockdown) in which Tom answers listener questions on the crucifixion, the nature of atonement and forgiveness.
2023-09-14T10:30:00+01:00
Ken Miles, clinical academic and author of From Billiard Balls to Bishops: A Scientist’s Introduction to Christian Worship, explores whether we can feel the presence of God in an age of science
2023-09-13T13:00:00+01:00
Our latest episode tackling questions from the listeners starts by considering whether we can harmonise a belief in modern science and a literalistic reading of the Genesis account of creation.
2023-09-12T11:21:00+01:00
Author Darren Richards reflects on artificial intelligence, looking at the value of human leaders
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