Social issues

The CS Lewis Podcast #97 Alister McGrath: The creation of Narnia
2023-03-20T18:00:00+00:00
In the eleventh episode of our series focussing on McGrath’s book, CS Lewis: A Life, we hear the inspiration behind the Narnia Chronicles and look at the important role imagination played in Lewis’ work. Plus, don’t forget to register for the opportunity to win a copy of McGrath’s seminal biography of Lewis.
Unbelievable? Optimism or extinction? What’s the future of humanity? John Hands & Perry Marshall
2023-03-17T18:00:00+00:00
Secular scientist and academic John Hands has been described as a ‘polymath’. His 2016 book Cosmosapiens received wide praise for its analysis of human evolution since the beginning of the universe. His new book ‘The Future of Humankind’ looks ahead to what lies in store for homosapiens.
Does place matter? Lessons from Covid-19
2023-03-17T14:18:00+00:00
Tim James explores how the Covid-19 pandemic contributed to our understanding of the divine importance of physical place in our modern world
Ask NT Wright Anything #161 Housebound prayers, computer programming, art and music - what counts as kingdom work?
2023-03-16T18:00:00+00:00
Tom answers practical questions about the role of those unable to be physically active - does their prayer and meditation make a difference in the Kingdom? A computer programmer questions whether his work is a worthwhile activity in Kingdom terms? Are there any forms of art that go against our image-bearing creativity?
Finding God through science – an atheist discovers chemical evolution can’t adequately explain the origin of life
2023-03-16T14:47:00+00:00
Jana Harmon shares the story of Dr Fazale Rana who discovered God through his pursuit of science. His paradigm shift began when he began to find scientific explanations for the origin of life inadequate and started to look elsewhere
Unbelievable? Where does order in nature and the cosmos come from? Stephen Meyer & Saleem Ali
2023-03-10T18:00:00+00:00
Prof Saleem Ali of the University of Delaware is author of ‘Earthly Order: How natural laws define human life’ and describes the way order in the universe drives order in human and social settings. He engages with Dr Stephen Meyer of the Discovery Institute, whose book ‘The Return of The God Hypothesis’ makes the case that order in nature points to a divine mind.
Ask NT Wright Anything #160 Why bother improving the world? Can Christians attain perfection?
2023-03-09T18:00:00+00:00
Why bother with earth and not just create heaven? Why try to make the world a better place if God is going to fix it? Is the world getting better or worse because of Christianity? Can Christians achieve perfection in this life, as Wesley claimed? Tom Wright answers listeners questions on the ‘now-and-not-yet’ of new creation.
Matters of Life & Death: Public sector strikes 2: Taking patients hostage, employment as service, slaves and masters, and Christian peacemaking
2023-03-08T17:00:00+00:00
There are two strong Christian traditions when it comes to robust political or industrial action such as strikes. One argues for enduring oppression and unfair employment in the manner of Jesus and points to Paul’s teaching in the Bible on slaves and masters. But a second position throws its weight behind efforts to challenge injustice and protect the vulnerable, noting Jesus’s clear teaching on care for the widow, orphan and stranger.
Matters of Life & Death: Public sector strikes 1: The Winter of Discontent, austerity-era pay freezes, Christian socialist solidarity, and continuity of patient care
2023-03-01T11:00:00+00:00
The UK is currently gripped by a wave of strikes from public sector employees – nurses, teachers, postal workers, train drivers, paramedics, and soon junior doctors too. But this raises complex ethical questions. Few Christians would deny it is legitimate for private employees to withhold their labour in order to demand better pay or conditions, but it is not the governmental employers who will suffer in public sector strikes but patients, students and ordinary citizens.
The CS Lewis Podcast #94 Alister McGrath: The wartime apologist
2023-02-27T16:45:00+00:00
In the eighth episode of our series focussing on McGrath’s book, CS Lewis: A Life, Professor Alister McGrath shares some of Lewis’ thoughts on suffering. We also hear how and why Lewis was broadcast on BBC Radio during the Second World War and the impact this had. Plus, it’s not too late to register for the opportunity to win a copy of McGrath’s seminal biography of Lewis.
Is Asbury Theological Seminary really experiencing revival? President Timothy Tennent shares his thoughts
2023-02-27T16:29:00+00:00By Timothy Tennett
The leader of Asbury Theological Seminary reflects on what is happening at their campus in Kentucky
Why are we so obsessed with sex? LGBT, materialism and the revival of Epicureanism
2023-02-24T15:10:00+00:00By Mark Roque
Following the recent LGBT and the Church Unbelievable? show, author Mark Roques explores how Greek philosophy helps illuminate our understanding of sex
Unapologetic #41 Bruce Miller: Does life have a purpose?
2023-02-22T13:00:00+00:00
In the first of four episodes on how to approach some of life’s most difficult questions, Ruth Jackson speaks to Bruce Miller, author of The 7 Big Questions: Searching for God, Truth, and Purpose, about belief, doubt and purpose.
Why would God allow the Turkey-Syria earthquake?
2023-02-21T14:00:00+00:00
In light of the tragic Kahramanmaras earthquake, apologist Dr Sharon Dirckx shares her thoughts on how we reconcile the idea of a good and powerful God with the presence of natural disasters
How do you mend a broken heart? The cure we all need this Valentine’s Day
2023-02-14T09:58:00+00:00
As we head into a day devoted to celebrating relationships, Erik Strandness looks at how God restores the relationships damaged through our infidelity
Unapologetic #40 Tyler Scott: What Jesus means to a future NFL player
2023-02-13T18:00:00+00:00
Following Sunday’s Super Bowl, Ruth Jackson spoke to former University of Cincinnati receiver, Tyler Scott, about faith, football and the power of prayer.
Racial justice: Why and how should we fight for it?
2023-02-11T12:00:00+00:00
As we approach Racial Justice Sunday, apologist Adam Coleman of Tru-ID looks at why all humans have intrinsic worth. He shares examples of abolitionists who took matters of justice into their own hands as well as those who opted for non-violence, trusting God to act on their behalf
Unbelievable? Death to Deconstruction: Josh Porter & Jon Steingard on whether exvangelicals can reconstruct their faith
2023-02-08T15:58:00+00:00
Punk singer-turned-pastor Josh Porter charts his own journey of reconstructing his Christian faith in the book ‘Death to Deconstruction: Reclaiming faithfulness as an act of rebellion’. He discusses deconstruction, the Bible, the problem of evil and more with Jon Steingard, former lead singer of Hawk Nelson who underwent his own journey of deconstruction in 2020.
Help! My teenager doesn’t believe in God
2023-02-08T15:00:00+00:00
Pastor Marc Lambert looks at how parents can lovingly walk alongside their children as they doubt, question and rebel against Christianity
Working for peace in our politically divided world is essential. But the Church needs to get its own house in order, too
2023-02-06T14:30:00+00:00
With discussions around sexuality looming large at the Church of England’s General Synod this week, journalist Heather Tomlinson takes a look at tribalism within the Church. For more on sexuality, gender and identity, register free for an Unbelievable? Live webinar on 7th February here
Unapologetic #38 Lauren Windle: Finding God in the midst of addiction
2023-02-01T18:00:00+00:00
Journalist Lauren Windle tells her story of getting sober from alcohol and cocaine, and shares how she encountered the God who changed her life.
Are there contradictions in the Bible?
2023-01-24T14:30:00+00:00
Apologist Joel Furches explores one of the primary objections offered by Americans who exit the Christian faith
The CS Lewis Podcast #89 Alister McGrath: CS Lewis and the Great War
2023-01-23T18:00:00+00:00
In the third episode of our series focussing on McGrath’s book CS Lewis: A Life, we explore Lewis’ experience of the First World War and the significant relationships he formed during this time, such as with the Moore family. We also delve into Lewis’ interest in sadomasochism! Plus, a quick reminder of our competition to win a copy of McGrath’s seminal biography of Lewis.
Unbelievable? ChatGPT, AI and the future - John Wyatt Q&A on living faithfully in a technologically confusing world
2023-01-20T17:30:00+00:00
Justin and Ruth were joined by research scientist Dr John Wyatt on a live show to talk about AI, robotics and technology. Listeners asked questions about machine consciousness, the potential dangers of AI and how to raise children in a tech world.
Ask NT Wright Anything #153 Is the Bible inerrant? Is ‘Sola Scriptura’ correct? What about verses endorsing slavery?
2023-01-19T18:00:00+00:00
How should we treat the Bible? Inerrant? Infallible? Does it contain errors? Tom answers questions on the nature of the Bible as well as related issues such as whether the Reformers were right to concentrate solely on scripture rather than church tradition, and whether there is a ‘trajectory hermeneutic’ when it comes to issues like slavery in the Bible.
Dear Culture
2023-01-19T15:30:00+00:00By Erik Strandness
Erik Strandness voices his concerns about young people in today’s society and shares his thought on the rising number of teen suicides
Unapologetic #36 Trevin Wax: How to tackle objections to Christianity
2023-01-18T18:00:00+00:00
In the second part of their discussion, Ruth Jackson speaks to Trevin Wax, author of award-winning book ‘The Thrill of Orthodoxy’, about culture wars, evangelism and how to approach life’s big questions.
The CS Lewis Podcast #88 Alister McGrath: CS Lewis’ unpleasant schooldays
2023-01-16T18:00:00+00:00
In the second episode of a new series focussing on McGrath’s book CS Lewis: A Life, we look at why Lewis found school so thoroughly unpleasant and how it helped to cement his growing atheism. Plus, we launch a competition to win a copy of McGrath’s book.
Unbelievable? Paranormal hauntings and exorcism - a Christian and skeptic in discussion.
2023-01-13T18:00:00+00:00
Matt Arnold, editor of the Christian Parapsychologist Journal and Dr Cal Cooper, a psychologist and paranormal researcher, speak to Justin about how they interpret account of ghosts, exorcism and apparitions as a Christian and skeptic.
Ask NT Wright Anything #152 - Can women lead in church? Why does 1 Timothy tell women to ‘be silent’?
2023-01-12T18:00:00+00:00
Tom answers questions on what the New Testament says about the role of women in church leadership. Does 1 Tim 2:13-15 forbid women from preaching? What does he make of complementarian vs egalitarian theology? How does he treat passages such as Ephesians 5: 22 ‘wives submit to your husband’? First broadcast in 2019.
Matters Of Life & Death: Martin Rees 3: Pre-emptive science fiction, the morality-reality gap, adventurers on Mars, and the mind of the Creator
2023-01-11T18:00:00+00:00
In the third and final installment of John’s discussion with Lord Martin Rees, the Astronomer Royal, they discuss Martin’s views on the future of space travel and astronauts, and whether some robotic future progeny of humankind will eventually replace us in exploring the universe.
The CS Lewis Podcast #87 Alister McGrath: CS Lewis’ Irish childhood
2023-01-09T18:00:00+00:00
In this first episode of a new series focussing on McGrath’s book CS Lewis: A Life, we look at Lewis’ early childhood in County Down, their family life and the death of his mother.
And it was very good: creation and humanity
2023-01-06T15:30:00+00:00
Erik Strandness explores the place of humans on this planet
Ask NT Wright Anything #151 NT Wright Q&A with Bishop Joseph D’Souza on global mission - Oxford Conference Session 3
2023-01-05T18:00:00+00:00
Tom Wright and Joseph D’Souza host a Q&A at the Reimagining Global Mission conference in Oxford covering questions on the theology of mission and discipleship.
Matters Of Life & Death: Martin Rees 2: Blurred humanity, re-dignifying care work, algorithms reading lung X-rays and the risks of virtual life
2023-01-04T18:00:00+00:00
Happy New Year! Today’s episode continues the Big Conversation between John and Martin Rees, the astronomer royal.
Is the Western Church’s problem that it is too self-centred?
2023-01-04T15:30:00+00:00
Digging deeper into Gungor’s rejection of Christian faith suggests so, says Heather Tomlinson
Should Christians be Concerned about the Rapid Advancements in Artificial Intelligence?
2023-01-03T15:54:00+00:00By Sarah Johnson
As artificial intelligence (AI) technology continues to advance rapidly, Sarah Johnson explores the potential ethical and societal impacts of AI and the potential benefits of the technology.
Unbelievable? James KA Smith speaks on how to inhabit time & Trevin Wax shows Justin around CS Lewis’ house The Kilns
2022-12-30T18:00:00+00:00
Justin presents an end of year show featuring a conversation with theologian and philosopher James KA Smith on his new book ‘How To Inhabit Time’ recorded at the Everything Conference. Justin also caught up with Trevin Wax in Oxford who gave him a tour of CS Lewis’ home The Kilns.
The Top 10 Unbelievable? shows of 2022
2022-12-30T15:30:00+00:00
Justin Brierley rounds up the most popular shows of the year
Ask NT Wright Anything #150 NT Wright on the multi-ethnic mission of the church - Oxford Conference Session 2
2022-12-29T18:00:00+00:00
In this second lecture from the Reimagining Global Mission conference in Oxford, Tom speaks on the multi-ethnic, multicultural, polychrome mission of the church.
How should we respond to racial injustice?
2022-12-28T15:30:00+00:00
As we approach a new year, we must continue to talk about these important issues. Clare Williams, apologist and founder of Get Real shares her thoughts about how Christians should respond to racial injustice
Matters Of Life & Death: Social media and politics 2: A mucky business, the ultimate conspiracy theory, ‘showbiz for ugly people’, and and atomised individuals
2022-12-21T18:00:00+00:00
In the second half of our conversation with Tim Farron, we discuss his conviction that Christians should get stuck into politics despite its compromises and challenges. Why did his own term as leader of the Liberal Democrats come unstuck so badly, and does he believe there actually is a ceiling on ambition for Christian politicians who wish to hold onto their integrity? What impact is social media and our accelerating, atomised society having on our politics, and how can we as believers resist being dragged along with this?
Unbelievable? Should praying outside abortion clinics be banned? Ann Furedi & Lois McLatchie
2022-12-16T18:00:00+00:00
A Public Order Bill in UK Parliament proposing ‘buffer zones’ could potentially criminalise pro-life activity or even silent prayer outside abortion clinics.
Ask NT Wright Anything #148 NT Wright on Reimagining Mission in the Global South - Oxford Conference Session 1
2022-12-15T18:00:00+00:00
NT Wright was keynote speaker at an Oxford conference on Reimagining Mission in the Global South, hosted by Bishop Joseph D’Souza of the Good Shepherd Church network in India, in partnership with Premier.
Matters Of Life & Death: Social media and politics 1: The judgemental society, 3,000 offensive tweets a day, freedom from vs freedom to, and Elon Musk’s Twitter
2022-12-14T18:00:00+00:00
This week we’re joined by the former leader of the Liberal Democrats Tim Farron to discuss social media and politics. Research suggests UK members of parliament like Tim get sent thousands of offensive tweets every single day.
Unbelievable? How to overcome tribalism in politics and the church - Patrick Miller & Keith Simon
2022-12-09T18:00:00+00:00
‘Truth Over Tribe: Pledging allegiance to the lamb, not the donkey or the elephant’ is the name of the new book by Patrick Miller and Keith Simon. They are both church pastors in the USA who started the Truth Over Tribe podcast to combat polarisation in politics, culture and Christianity.
Matters Of Life & Death: Mental health 2: Emotional resilience, the bio-psycho-social model, the power of story and depression in the Psalms
2022-12-07T18:00:00+00:00
In the second half of our discussion with Christian psychiatrist Daniel Maughan, we work through some ways in which the church might play in role in supporting those struggling with their mental health back to fullness of life.
Anything But God: Adrienne Johnson's unlikely conversion to Christianity
2022-12-05T18:00:00+00:00
With tales of Santa, flying reindeer and magical elves, the Christmas period is often brimming with make believe - something Adrienne Johnson also equated with the Christian story. However, through a long period of discovery, she came to see there was truth behind these ancient beliefs
Who are the ‘Nones’ and how can we reach them?
2022-12-03T12:00:00+00:00
With the number of people identifying as ‘non religious’ on the rise, Theos researcher, Dr Hannah Waite, explores who these ‘Nones’ are and how we can meaningfully engage with them
Less than half of UK people now identify as Christian. But the Christian story is far from over
2022-11-30T16:30:00+00:00
People may tick ‘non-religious’ in a census, but that doesn’t mean they’re atheists, says Justin Brierley. They’re just religious about different things
Unbelievable? Sean McDowell live Q&A on sexuality, transgender and culture war questions
2022-11-25T18:00:00+00:00
Apologist and author Sean McDowell joined Justin along with hundreds of Unbelievable? listeners for a live show talking about Sean’s new book ‘A Rebel’s Manifesto’ and taking questions on LGBT, same-sex marriage, transgender, divorce, theology and more.
Unapologetic #28 Jon Tyson: Addressing objections, doubts and questions about the Christian faith
2022-11-23T18:00:00+00:00
New York-based pastor Jon Tyson shares some of his thoughts about living as a Christian in a secular space.
Unbelievable? Were colonial-era missionaries good or bad for Africa? Victor Simz & Jonathan Wilson
2022-11-18T18:00:00+00:00
Were Victorian missionaries a tool of oppression, exploitation and empire as some critics claim? Or did they leave a legacy of education, healthcare and eradicating inhumane practises?
Falling from Grace: Addressing power, leadership and abuse in the Church
2022-11-18T16:00:00+00:00By Erik Strandness
Erik Strandness reflects on a recent webinar on sexual abuse and looks at the lessons we must learn
What does Christianity have to say about ‘big tech’?
2022-11-15T16:00:00+00:00
Writer Steve Schramm explores the pros and cons of technology and how Christians should engage with it
Unbelievable? Can Christianity or Humanism save the planet from climate change?
2022-11-11T18:00:00+00:00
As COP 27 gets underway Justin is joined by Christian climate campaigner Rachel Mander and Humanist activist Lori Marriott. They agree on the science and what needs to be done but have different views about which worldview provides the better moral foundation for the work of climate change action.
Is Christianity sexist?
2022-11-11T15:45:00+00:00By Joel Furches
Apologist Joel Furches explores women’s place in the Church, both historically and today
Matters Of Life & Death: Protestant Social Teaching 2: The ars moriendi, open casket funerals in Derry Girls, the end of Christendom and ethical quietism
2022-11-09T17:00:00+00:00
Resuming our conversation with Rhys Laverty from the Davenant Institute, we look at John’s contribution to the Protestant Social Teaching book – a chapter exploring post-Reformation tradition around death and dying.
Blessed are the lonely in spirit
2022-11-07T16:00:00+00:00
With discussion around amnesty in the US over previous COVID restrictions, Derek Caldwell shares his thoughts about forgiveness and loneliness
Unapologetic #25 Clare Williams: Why racial justice matters
2022-11-02T17:00:00+00:00
Ruth Jackson speaks to apologist Clare Williams about racial justice, black pain and how the Church should respond.
Michael Gungor talks about his changing faith with Evan Wickham (full transcript)
2022-11-01T17:30:00+00:00
Unbelievable? explores how two friends with similar upbringings ended up in such different places spiritually
Unbelievable? Michael Gungor & Evan Wickham: Millennials, music and mystical deconstruction
2022-10-28T17:00:00+01:00
Michael Gungor and his wife Lisa were pioneers in the Christian music scene, building a loyal fan base through Gungor’s music and podcasts such as The Liturgists. However, Michael’s recent turn towards an increasingly progressive, msytical and deconstructed interpretation of faith has left many Christians confused.
Halloween: scary movies, religious belief and wish fulfilment
2022-10-27T15:30:00+01:00
As we approach Halloween, researcher Derek Caldwell explores Freud’s wish fulfilment hypothesis in light of our inherent fears
Unbelievable? How a top surgeon found his life purpose on a hospital ship - Mark Shrime
2022-10-25T17:00:00+01:00
Mark Shrime tells Justin Brierley about his journey of faith and career as a surgeon, which now sees him deliver life-saving treatment around the world with Mercy Ships. Mark is the author of ‘Solving For Why: A surgeon’s journey to discover the transformative power of purpose’.
Unbelievable? Rethinking Kingdom work in the Global South & North - Joseph D’Souza & Andrew Scott
2022-10-21T17:00:00+01:00
Joseph D’Souza, bishop of the Good Shepherd Church network in South Asia and Andrew Scott of Operation Mobilisation join Justin to talk about a new paradigm for mission work in the Global South and how it impacts church and culture in the Global North.
Ask NT Wright Anything #140 Q&A on racial reconciliation and female leadership with Pastor Miles McPherson Pt 2
2022-10-20T17:00:00+01:00
Tom speaks on the role of the church in racial reconcliation in the USA and why he believes the Bible affirms the leadership roles of both men and women. This is the second part of Tom’s on-stage interview with Pastor Miles McPherson, recorded at Rock Church, San Diego in 2019.
Unapologetic #23 Tom Holland: How the Bible inspired the anti-slavery movement
2022-10-19T17:00:00+01:00
Why were radical Christians at the forefront of the abolition movement? Historian Tom Holland, author of ‘Dominion’, shares why the story of Jesus dying the death of a criminal slave was the historical catalyst for the modern day anti-slavery movement. The second part of a conversation recorded live with Justin Brierley at the IllumiNations Europe conference in Scotland.
Should churches use Non Disclosure Agreements (NDAs)?
2022-10-17T15:30:00+01:00
Psychologist Diane Langberg and attorney Rachael Denhollander discuss the ethics of NDAs in Christian contexts
Should we blacklist books by fallen leaders?
2022-10-15T11:00:00+01:00
Amy Orr-Ewing, Rachael Denhollander and Mike Cosper share their reflections on whether we should continue to reference material written by fallen leaders.
Ask NT Wright Anything #139 Q&A on New Creation & Salvation with Pastor Miles McPherson Pt 1
2022-10-13T17:00:00+01:00
NT Wright was interviewed by Pastor Miles McPherson at Rock Church San Diego. They talk about Tom’s work to redescribe the gospel in terms of new creation, and what that means for the concept of ‘getting saved’. Recorded in 2019.
Unbelievable? Covid, Churches and the Frankfurt Declaration: Jamie Franklin & John Stevens debate Christian liberty and government overreach
2022-09-30T17:00:00+01:00
As the global pandemic subsides, the way the Covid lockdowns were implemented in churches still divides Christians. The Frankfurt Declaration has been signed by church leaders who are concerned that civil and religious liberties are being eroded by Government overreach.
Unbelievable? Church abuse, leadership scandals & RZIM: Rachael Denhollander, Amy Orr-Ewing, Mike Cosper & Diane Langberg
2022-09-23T17:00:00+01:00
Justin Brierley was joined by four guests and hundreds of attendees for a live webinar event Falling From Grace: Addressing power, leadership and abuse in the church.
How the Queen turned problematic colonialism into a positive Commonwealth
2022-09-15T16:05:00+01:00
Mark Greene reflects on the Queen’s remarkable legacy of unifying a post-Empire world.
Matters Of Life & Death: The Queen: Monarchy as service, astonishing the President of Ireland, the changing Christmas Speech, and a testimonial faith
2022-09-14T16:45:00+01:00
In this special one-off episode, Tim speaks with Mark Greene from the London Institute for Contemporary Christianity about Queen Elizabeth II, her faith and decades of service.
“I was in the presence of someone who was being faithful to Jesus” - A chaplain to the Queen pays tribute
2022-09-12T18:25:00+01:00
Gavin Ashenden was appointed chaplain to the Queen from 2008 until 2017. He shares his thoughts about Elizabeth II’s faith, role and character.
Why the end of the second Elizabethan age marks the end of Christendom
2022-09-11T16:45:00+01:00
Gavin Ashenden was appointed chaplain to the Queen from 2008 until 2017. He shares his thoughts about the significance of Queen Elizabeth II’s death to our national culture and why he believes it may spell the end of the British monarchy.
Unbelievable? Remembering Queen Elizabeth II - NT Wright, Gavin Ashenden & Ruth Jackson
2022-09-09T17:00:00+01:00
As the world marks the death of Queen Elizabeth II, Justin Brierley presents a special edition of Unbelievable? speaking to New Testament scholar NT Wright about his memories of the queen when he preached for her as Bishop of Durham. Former chaplain to the queen Gavin Ashenden asks whether the end of her reign marks the end of Christendom in the UK, and Ruth Jackson reflects on the hope that comes with grief.
We mourn the Queen, but not as those without hope
2022-09-09T15:00:00+01:00
On Thursday 8th September, Queen Elizabeth II, Britain’s longest-reigning monarch, died aged 96. Ruth Jackson reflects on what Jesus, the “bedrock” of the Queen’s faith has to say in the midst of our grief.
Unbelievable? Are the public ready to move beyond the science vs faith conflict? Nick Spencer & Katherine Mathieson
2022-09-02T17:00:00+01:00
Katherine Mathieson, director of the Royal Institution and Nick Spencer of Theos discuss the recent report ‘Science and Religion: Moving away from the shallow end’, which surveyed the British public’s attitudes towards science and faith. They explore questions such as: Why does the public believe there is a conflict? How has New Atheism played into the debate? Is science the only way of knowing truth?
Matters Of Life & Death: Archie Battersbee 2: Doubts over the brain scans, the end of ‘doctor knows best’, sucked into the culture wars and protective power of attorney
2022-08-31T17:00:00+01:00
Archie’s case underlines the growing crisis over the lack of trust many ordinary people have in medical professionals.
Matters Of Life & Death: Archie Battersbee 1: The invention of ‘brain death’, a breakdown in trust, the child’s best interests, and how to turn off life support
2022-08-24T17:00:00+01:00
Twelve-year-old Archie Battersbee died on 7 August, after months of legal wrangling between doctors who believed he was brain dead and wished to end life support, and his family who resisted this.
Unbelievable? My bipolar experience: Can Christianity offer a better approach to depression?
2022-08-12T17:00:00+01:00
Author and academic James Mumford recently wrote an article for The New Atlantis magazine about his experience undergoing therapy at a clinic for bipolar disorder and his concerns about its value neutral approach. He engages with psychologist Roger Bretherton, creator of The Character Course, on what role faith can play for those struggling with depression.
Unapologetic #14 Derwin L Gray: How should Christians think about CRT, Black Lives Matter and ‘white privilege’?
2022-08-10T17:00:00+01:00
Phrases such as Critical Race Theory, Black Lives Matter, ‘antiracism’ and ‘white privilege’ have become polarising issues in Christian circles. Derwin L Gray shares what he thinks Christians need to understand about racism and the controversy surrounding these terms.
When Jesus becomes a trigger word in Woke theology
2022-08-04T11:28:00+01:00By Erik Strandness
Is language violence? Are anecdotes replacing facts? Erik Strandess reviews a recent debate on the limits of ‘woke theology’.
Unapologetic #12 Derwin L Gray: How an NFL footballer found faith in Jesus
2022-07-27T18:00:00+01:00
Derwin L Gray is a former NFL football player who, along with his wife Vicki, founded Transformation Church - a ‘multicultural, multi-generational, mission-shaped’ church in South Carolina.
Putin’s Blasphemy: 3 reasons why the Russian President is no true Christian
2022-06-01T12:56:00+01:00By Peter Harris
Peter Harris argues that Putin’s warped religious beliefs are at odds with the Orthodox faith he claims to hold.
Original sin vs original goodness: Katharine Birbalsingh & Steve Chalke on educating children
2022-05-12T17:12:00+01:00
Katharine Birbalsingh has been described as ‘Britain’s strictest headteacher’. Twitter erupted when she tweeted that ‘original sin’ was responsible for the fact children need to be habituated into choosing good over evil.
Putin’s Holy War: The religious roots of the Ukraine invasion - Fr Cyril Hovorun and Clifford Longley (+ Sergey Rakhuba)
2022-03-04T19:51:00+00:00
Vladimir Putin’s invasion of Ukraine is more than just a geo-political conflict. The Russian leader believes in the spiritual destiny of a united ‘Holy Rus’ that goes back to the conversion of Vladimir the Great in 984.
Hinduism, Caste & Christianity: Joseph D’Souza and Kancha Ilaiah Shepherd
2022-02-26T19:58:00+00:00
Bishop Joseph D’Souza from the Good Shepherd Church in India and Kancha Ilaiah Shepherd, political theorist and human rights activist, discuss the current political and religious climate in India and the situation for Christians and the Dalit and Shudra castes.
Unbelievable? If the tomb is empty: Joby Martin on sponsoring 14,000 Compassion kids
2022-02-01T20:34:00+00:00
Pastor Joby Martin, pastor of The Church of Eleven22 and author of ‘If The Tomb is Empty’ tells Justin the story of how the church has sponsored over 14,000 children through Compassion.
Unbelievable? Should ’Gay Conversion Therapy’ be banned? Jayne Ozanne vs Peter Lynas
2022-01-14T20:46:00+00:00
The UK Government has published proposals to ban ‘gay conversion therapy’. Should such a law be welcomed by churches as a protection for LGBT+ people, or a cause for concern at the potential criminalisation of prayer? Peter Lynas of the UK Evangelical Alliance and Jayne Ozanne of the Ban Conversion Therapy coalition debate the proposed legislation.
Ask NT Wright Anything #98 Is it ok to be wealthy and go on nice holidays?
2021-12-30T16:44:00+00:00
How should Christians handle personal wealth in a way that honours God? Is it wrong to take time for myself and even go on nice holidays? And find out what Tom thinks about the failed European Super League!
Ask NT Wright Anything #96 Qs on Marriage - Help…I‘ve become a Christian but my partner isn‘t interested in getting married
2021-12-16T16:44:00+00:00
Does the church idolise marriage? I’ve become a Christian but my partner isn’t interested in marriage - what should I do? What if I no longer respect my husband’s views? Tom takes listener questions on marriage.
Unbelievable? What does the science of climate change say? Hugh Ross and Antonia Godber
2021-11-06T00:00:00+00:00
With COP26 the United Nations climate change conference underway in Glasgow, Justin is joined by climate change campaigner Antonia Godber and scientist Hugh Ross of Reasons to Believe.
Unbelievable? CRT and Woke Christianity - Owen Strachan vs Jermaine Marshall
2021-10-16T00:00:00+01:00
Is the church too woke or just broke?
Unbelievable? Abortion and the Texas heartbeat bill - Stephanie Gray Connors vs Rev Bromleigh McCleneghan
2021-10-09T00:00:00+01:00
The Texas ‘heartbeat’ bill, prohibiting termination after 6 weeks gestation has put abortion law in the spotlight recently.
Unbelievable? Should people of faith support assisted dying? Rabbi Jonathan Romain vs Dr Mark Pickering
2021-09-25T00:00:00+01:00
A new bill to allow assisted dying is being debated in the UK parliament. Should people of faith support those with terminal illness being able to end their own life?
Unbelievable? Jackie Hill Perry Q&A: Same sex attraction, transgender, racism and more
2021-07-31T00:00:00+01:00
Jackie Hill Perry author of ‘Gay Girl, Good God’ and ‘Holier Than Thou’ talks to Justin about life, faith and why she turned her back on her lesbian identity when she became a Christian in this broadcast of a recent livestream in which she answered viewers questions too.
Ask NT Wright Anything #72 Christianity in Africa - NT Wright meets Ugandan church leader Richmond Wandera
2021-07-01T16:44:00+01:00
Justin Brierley hosts a dialogue between NT Wright and Ugandan church leader Richmond Wandera on the challenges and opportunities facing the church in Africa.
Unbelievable? Richmond Wandera – Christianity, witchcraft and the prosperity gospel in Uganda
2021-02-20T00:00:00+00:00
Richmond Wandera, a pastor in Kampala, Uganda and listener of Unbelievable? talks to Justin about the history of Christian revival in Africa, elections and Covid in Uganda, witchcraft, secularism and the problem of the prosperity gospel in churches. He also share his story of coming from the slums of Kampala through to theological education and church leadership in a show in partnership with Compassion.
Unbelievable? Is the Bible as bad as atheist memes claim? Dan Kimball vs Michael Wiseman
2021-01-30T00:00:00+00:00
The online atheist world is awash with memes that critique passages from the Bible.
Ask NT Wright Anything #45 Worship in the age of Covid-19
2020-10-21T16:44:00+01:00
Tom answers listener questions on how the church will be changed by Coronavirus, online communion and the challenges of worshipping in a socially-distanced way.
Unbelievable? Is Critical Race Theory compatible with Christianity? Neil Shenvi & Rasool Berry
2020-10-17T00:00:00+01:00
‘Critical Race Theory’ is a way of understanding racism through the dynamics of oppressed and oppressor groups. Neil Shenvi believes its worldview is at odds with the Gospel and is concerned at its embrace in evangelical circles. Rasool Berry, teaching pastor at The Bridge Church NYC believes many Christians ...
Unbelievable? Is free will an illusion? And does it matter? Dan Barker vs Braxton Hunter
2020-09-05T00:00:00+01:00
Unbelievable? Christianity, Psychology and Compassion - Paul Gilbert and Roger Bretherton
2020-05-30T00:00:00+01:00
Unbelievable? Christendom’s response to plague and pandemic: Tom Holland, Mike Bird and Rev Marcus Walker
2020-05-16T00:00:00+01:00
Unbelievable? Is it time to end the war on drugs? Peter Hitchens vs Christina Dent. Plus William Lane Craig and Amy Orr Ewing on God, atheism and Covid 19
2020-04-25T00:00:00+01:00
Becky Pippert: Evangelism during COVID-19
2020-04-23T00:00:00+01:00
Evangelist Becky Pippert, bestselling author of ‘Out Of The Saltshaker’, talks to Justin Brierley about how Christians can be a faithful witness to Christ during the COVID-19 lockdown and about her new book ‘Stay Salt: The world has changed. Our message must not’.
How much is a life worth? Human dignity in the time of COVID.
2020-04-06T00:00:00+01:00
As health systems come under pressure our culture‘s value of human life is being tested, says Esther O’Reilly
Unbelievable? Coronavirus: How will it change the church and the world? AJ Roberts, Mark Sayers and mystery guest
2020-03-21T00:00:00+00:00
In a special edition of the show, recorded from home, Justin looks at the present Coronavirus crisis, how the pandemic will change global society and how the church can respond.
Heidi Crowter, Matt Dillahunty, Down syndrome… and the disturbing consequences of getting rid of God
2020-02-20T00:00:00+00:00
Following his debate with a leading atheist, Glen Scrivener explains why rejecting Christianity can result in chilling moral consequences
Ask NT Wright Anything #25 When Christians lose their faith
2019-11-19T16:44:00+00:00
In the wake of two high profile Christians who have renounced their faith, Tom responds to listener questions on what defines being a Christian, whether we can lose our salvation, and what to do when a loved one cannot respond to the Gospel because of dementia.
Ask NT Wright Anything #15 A pastor losing his faith writes in and Tom responds to personal questions
2019-06-07T17:00:00+01:00
In a special pastoral Q&A edition Tom responds to various questions on difficult family situations, unforgiveness and a church pastor who doesn’t know if he believes any more.
Unbelievable? Is Identity Politics the new religion? James Lindsay, Esther O Reilly and Neil Shenvi
2019-03-23T00:00:00+00:00
Andy Bannister vs Peter Singer • Do we need God to be good?
2019-01-29T00:00:00+00:00
Atheist moral philosopher Peter Singer and Christian thinker Andy Bannister on 'Evolution, morality and being human: Do we need God to be good?'. They debate human rights, dignity, disability, the moral argument for God, suffering and much more.
Unbelievable? Render unto Caesar - Should the church keep out of economic politics? Andy Walton vs James Price
2018-12-15T00:00:00+00:00
Unbelievable? Debating the Statement on Social Justice – Jarrod McKenna & James White
2018-12-08T00:00:00+00:00
Unbelievable? Is War justified by Christianity and Nature? Michael Ruse vs Nigel Biggar
2018-11-10T00:00:00+00:00
14 things you (probably) didn’t know about Christianity, but really should
2018-08-28T00:00:00+01:00
Nobody gets to heaven by being good, faith is not a blind leap and there’s much more evidence than you think. Andrew Haslam clears up these and other common misconceptions about Christianity
Unbelievable? Live in Canada – A Christian and atheist debate the foundation for human rights
2018-07-17T00:00:00+01:00
Justin Brierley hosts a public dialogue between Christian Andy Bannister and atheist humanist Justin Trottier, live on stage at the Apologetics Canada conference in Abbotsford, British Columbia.
Unbelievable? Justin Brierley vs atheist David Smalley on Dogma Debate
2018-06-30T00:00:00+01:00
7 ways abortion harms women
2018-05-24T00:00:00+01:00
In light of Ireland’s referendum, Dr Mark Houghton explains why he believes abortion has negative consequences for women
Unbelievable? Live in Canada. Andy Bannister & Justin Trottier debate the foundation of human rights
2018-03-17T00:00:00+00:00
Unbelievable? Hinge: an atheist & Christian seek the truth about Jesus. Plus Jarrod McKenna interview
2017-12-16T00:00:00+00:00
Down's Syndrome screening is opening the door to eugenics and violates international law
2017-03-21T00:00:00+00:00
The systematic screening for people with Down’s Syndrome is unlawful and morally wrong, says Alexandra Tompson
Unbelievable? Why I changed my mind about Christian history - Tom Holland & Larry Hurtado
2016-10-08T00:00:00+01:00
Sally Phillips: How I became a Christian
2016-06-16T00:00:00+01:00
The comedy actress known for her roles in Miranda and Bridget Jones talks about her Christian conversion and her campaign for Down’s syndrome equality
Unbelievable? Is human life intrinsically valuable? Peter Singer, Richard Weikart & Susan Blackmore
2016-05-07T00:00:00+01:00
4 reasons why every Christian should be pro-life
2016-04-29T00:00:00+01:00
Daniel Rodger explains why he believes evangelicals shouldn’t be afraid to stand against abortion
5 ways to reach poorer communities with the gospel
2016-02-17T00:00:00+00:00
In February, the Bishop of Burnley accused the Church of England of not investing enough money in poorer areas. Pastor of Ignite Elim Church Darren Edwards assesses the claim that the Church only cares about the rich, and suggests five ways for Christians to better reach poorer communities
From drug addict to daughter of the King
2015-08-10T00:00:00+01:00
Former Page 3 girl Susie Flashman Jarvis tells her story of leaving behind the worlds of modelling and drugs.
From Muslim to persecuted Christian
2014-11-13T00:00:00+00:00
Asylum seeker Javaid Khan, 36, tells of his conversion from Islam to Christianity, and the consequences of following Jesus Christ.
Unbelievable?: How do we solve world poverty? Wayne Grudem vs Richard Glover
2014-08-09T00:00:00+01:00
Graphic abortion images - Anne Furedi vs Gregg Cunningham public debate - Unbelievable?
2013-11-09T00:00:00+00:00
Ann Furedi of the British Preganancy Advisory Service (the UK’s largest abortion provider) debates Gregg Cunningham of the pro-life Centre for Bio-Ethical Reform.
Kermit Gosnell & the abortion debate - Unbelievable?
2013-05-04T00:00:00+01:00
In the USA Kermit Gosnell is being tried on counts of murdering children born alive in illegal late-term abortions at his unsanitary practise in Philadelphia.
Unbelievable? 5 Feb 2011 - Alister McGrath & Stephen Law - Why Won't God Go Away?
2011-02-05T00:00:00+00:00
Alister McGrath’s new book “Why God won’t go away” is a critique of the New Atheist Movement spearheaded by Dawkins, Hitchens, Harris & Dennett.
Unbelievable? 19 Jan 2008 Abortion
2008-01-19T00:00:00+00:00
If passed, the HFE Bill could entail big changes to abortion law. With 600 abortions carried out every day Dan Boucher of CARE explains why he believes the law needs to change. Pro-choice advocate Dr. Wendy Savage argues that a woman’s right to choose should come first.