Suffering
Transformed: How a despised Indian child became an evangelist
Jehu Limma, founder of HopeGiving Foundation, shares his remarkable journey from “untouchable” to helping children out of poverty
Does deconstruction signal the death of faith?
Erik Strandness reflects on deconstruction and reconstruction following an Unbelievable show on this topic
Unapologetic #70 Phil Knox: Dealing with objections
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.
Near-death experiences: 5 stories of changed lives
Journalist Heather Tomlinson highlights a number of people whose lives were transformed following a near-death experience
Unapologetic #69 Phil Knox: Does evangelism matter?
Evangelist Phil Knox, author of Story Bearer and The Best of Friends, shares some of his story with Ruth Jackson, speaking about the impact of his dad’s death at a young age. Plus, they discuss why evangelism matters and how we can share our story and be a “good news person in a bad news world”.
The CS Lewis Podcast #122 Out of the Silent Planet: Love, sex and intuition
Alister McGrath continues to explore Out of the Silent Planet, looking at some of CS Lewis’ language around love and sex. He also looks at the different life forms on Malacandra and the distinction between rational and non-rational life forms.
The late Queen (1926-2022): Reflections from a bishop a year after her death
Retired bishop Richard Harries shares his thoughts about Queen Elizabeth II, who died a year ago on 8th September 2022
What is Buddhism and how does it differ from Christianity?
Apologist Joel Furches explores the central beliefs of this popular Eastern religion, and compares it to Hinduism and Christianity
Matters of Life & Death: Lucy Letby: Murder on the neonatal ward, Munchausen’s by proxy, doctors versus nurses, and the banality of evil
Britain has been gripped by horror by the recent conviction of a neonatal nurse called Lucy Letby, who murdered seven premature babies and attempted to kill six others at the hospital where she worked. In this episode we discuss this horrifying and tragic story and whether Letby could or should have been stopped earlier.
Is there more to life than mere matter?
Dr Erik Strandness explores the relationship between the soul, mind, brain, body and spirit following a recent Big Conversation about near death experiences
Do near death experiences contradict Christian belief and doctrine?
Journalist Heather Tomlinson explores near death experiences and theology in light of a recent Big Conversation on this topic
From radical atheist to Christian via rigorous intellectual study
Former atheist, Dr Stefani Ruper, was intellectually convinced of secular atheism, but found that it lacked substantive answers for her life. More than 13 years of scholarly pursuit of truth led her to choose belief in God. Jana Harmon shares her story
Unapologetic #67 Adam Coleman: 60 years on has Martin Luther King Jr’s ‘dream’ been realised?
Monday 28th August marked 60 years since the 1963 March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom, where Martin Luther King Jr delivered his iconic ‘I have a dream’ speech on the steps of the Lincoln Memorial. Adam Coleman’s grandfather was personally invited to attend the event by Dr King. Adam spoke about his grandfather’s experience and reflected on the last 60 years - how far we’ve come and how far we still have to go when it comes to racial justice.
The CS Lewis Podcast #120 Out of the Silent Planet: Weston, Devine and JRR Tolkien
As we delve into the first book of the trilogy, Out of the Silent Planet, Professor Alister McGrath looks at some of its key themes. He explores the characters of Weston and Devine, looking at whether they represent particular ideologies and how Lewis exposes issues with their worldviews. Plus, why was JRR Tolkien such a fan of the book?
Unbelievable? Richard Dawkins & Francis Collins Debate (Replay) + Clash with Richard Swinburne + New Big Conversation Episodes Reveal!
We revisit a riveting dialogue from Season 4 of The Big Conversation, from 2022.
Why I regularly listen to Martin Luther King Jr’s ‘I have a dream’ speech 60 years later
60 years on from Martin Luther King Jr’s ‘I have a dream’ speech, apologist Adam Coleman reflects on his grandfather’s first-hand experience of the March on Washington
What is a near-death experience and what can it teach us?
Following a recent Big Conversation, journalist Heather Tomlinson explores near-death experiences
The CS Lewis Podcast #119 Has The Space Trilogy stood the test of time?
Alister McGrath concludes his introduction to Lewis’ Space Trilogy by exploring parallels with The Chronicles of Narnia. He offers tips for getting into these three books, speculates why they haven’t been turned into films and shares his favourite moment in the trilogy.
Unbelievable? Cancer and Christianity: The final Tim Keller Q+A
Tim Keller was a renowned thinker, writer and speaker who was dubbed New York’s ‘pastor to skeptics’. This week his online memorial was watched by tens of thousands around the world. We return to one of his last live shows hosted by Ruth Jackson and Justin Brierley when Tim answered audience questions on his journey with pancreatic cancer, his transformed prayer life and his book ‘Forgive’.
Jesus is the true and better Tim Keller
Rev Sam Allberry, a close friend of Tim and Kathy Keller, delivered a moving tribute at Tim Keller’s memorial service on 15th August. Here’s what he said
Remembering Tim Keller: Death has lost its sting
Entrepreneur Max Anderson shares his final reflections on the great Tim Keller who influenced his life in a deeply profound way
Remembering Tim Keller: How our daily work has an eternal value
Entrepreneur Max Anderson reflects on his New York pastor and friend’s teaching on work
Remembering Tim Keller: The purpose of marriage
Entrepreneur Max Anderson reflects on his New York pastor and friend’s teaching on marriage
Remembering Tim Keller: The heart is an idol factory
Entrepreneur Max Anderson reflects on his New York pastor and friend’s teaching on idolatry
Remembering Tim Keller: Jesus’ teachings only matter if the resurrection is real
Entrepreneur Max Anderson reflects on his New York pastor and friend’s apologetic teaching
Remembering Tim Keller: Religious people may be just as lost as the irreligious (maybe more)
Entrepreneur Max Anderson reflects on his New York pastor and friend’s teaching on the Prodigal Son
Remembering Tim Keller
Entrepreneur Max Anderson reflects on the many things he’s learnt from his New York pastor and friend
The CS Lewis Podcast #117 Vivisection, mental health, racism and sexism
We dive into some of the important issues explored in Lewis’ Space Trilogy. Why was he so vehemently opposed to animal experimentation? What would Lewis say to those experiencing mental health struggles today? Plus, Alister McGrath responds to the accusation that CS Lewis was sexist and racist.
Sex, drugs and rock ‘n’ roll: Why CS Lewis’ Space Trilogy is still relevant
The CS Lewis podcast recently launched a new series focussing on one of Lewis’ lesser known works of fiction, his Space Trilogy. Here, Ruth Jackson shares why she and Professor Alister McGrath think the books are worth a read, despite their length and difficulty
Women in apologetics: Overcoming sexism, societal expectation and vicious online attacks
Former non-theist Mary Jo Sharp found answers to many of her questions through Christian apologetics. She is now passionate about sharing this with others, despite the great personal cost at times. She shares some of her story with Joel Furches here
What does it mean to be human?
Are science and religion in conflict? Is there more to life than mere matter? Where do we find meaning? Erik Strandness explores these big questions in light of a recent Big Conversation with atheist Philip Ball and Christian Nick Spencer
Matters of Life & Death: Covid reconsidered 2: Empty Nightingale hospitals, difficult triage decisions, a failure of Christian leadership, and reconsidering lockdown
Our second ‘lessons learned’ episode looking back at the covid pandemic tackles how our healthcare systems coped, or failed to cope, with the unprecedented crisis of coronavirus.
Unapologetic #61 Vince Vitale: Why does God allow suffering and how can I cope?
Philosopher Dr Vince Vitale presents some of his PhD research around evil, suffering and theodicy. He and Ruth Jackson share their own experiences of suffering miscarriages, demonstrating that this is not just a theoretical question of why there is pain, but a deeply practical one of how we are to deal with this agony.
Should Christians ever defend themselves with weapons?
Nigerian pastor Hassan John reflects on the anti-Christian violence in his home country and considers the appropriate response
Unbelievable? Is violence ever justified? The dilemma of Nigeria’s Christians with Hassan John and Roger Bolton
This week, Unbelievable host Roger Bolton speaks to Archdeacon Hassan John, an Anglican minister from Jos in northern Nigeria who has lived through much of the violence. A former journalist, he is now a church leader and campaigner for religious liberty, who tries to bring reconciliation between Christians and Muslims in the region. Hassan recalls harrowing tales of near-miss encounters with Islamic extremists and on-going anti-Christian violence which continues to tear apart communities. He also discusses how he and other Christians attempt to work with Muslim in their communities to prevent the violence.
Ask NT Wright Anything #176 Free will and Problem of Evil (Replay)
From Sept 2019: An atheist listener asks a question about free will and the problem of evil. 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.
Matters of Life & Death: Covid reconsidered 1: Pandemic amnesia, ‘Stay at home, Protect the NHS, Save lives’, lingering Long Covid, and 13.47 billion vaccine doses
This podcast happened to launch a week or two into the first lockdown in spring 2020, and so for the first year almost all we could talk about on the show was coronavirus. But since normality finally returned last year, it feels like nobody wants to talk about the pandemic again.
Unapologetic #60 Vince Vitale: Can we be confident in our belief?
Ruth Jackson continues her conversation with Dr Vince Vitale, one of the new guest hosts of Premier Unbelievable?, who shares why he developed a passion for evangelism and apologetics. They discuss how he responded to questions and objections academically in the area of philosophy, but also on the sports field with his team mates at Princeton and Oxford.
Was CS Lewis a sadomasochist?
CS Lewis expert Professor Alister McGrath shares some of Lewis’ thoughts on sadomasochism, homosexuality and friendship
Is it ever OK for Christians to be violent?
Apologist Clinton Wilcox explores whether the Bible mandates pacifism or if acts of violence can ever be justified
Unapologetic #59 Vince Vitale: From scepticism to Christian apologist
Ruth Jackson speaks to Dr Vince Vitale, one of the new guest hosts of Premier Unbelievable?, about his journey from scepticism to Christianity while studying philosophy at Princeton University.
Becoming a father: How a difficult birth and my subsequent PTSD diagnosis heightened my belief in God
Father’s Day can be a really difficult time for many people for a variety of different reasons. Here, Elliott Rae, who works to support and champion families, shares his experience of fatherhood, mental health challenges and helping men to be more vulnerable
Unbelievable? The occult, demons and exorcism: Is modern-day deliverance ministry biblical? With ex-psychic Jenn Nizza, pastor Mike Signorelli hosted by Billy Hallowell
Is the occult just harmless fun? Or are there hidden dangers to alternative spirituality, satanism, and even new age practices? Increasingly the debate is not about good vs evil but my truth vs your truth.
Matters of Life & Death: Trans children: Gender dysphoria, diagnostic overshadowing, boy Lego versus girl Lego, and the non-replicated Dutch Protocol
Perhaps the most contentious political, medical and social issue of the day is how to treat and care for young people who are questioning or experiencing distress around their sex and gender.
Unapologetic #56 Collin Hansen: Tim Keller (1950-2023) - A pastor to sceptics
In the third part of our discussion with Collin Hansen, author of ’Timothy Keller: His Spiritual and Intellectual Formation’, we focus on Keller’s ministry in New York and beyond. Hansen also shares what Keller would want to say to the global Church and speculates on his lasting legacy.
Voices Unheard: Delving into the arguments for and against abortion
Erik Strandness, who has over 20 years’ experience in neonatal medicine, reflects on the thorny issue of abortion – a topic which was discussed on a recent episode of Unbelievable
Unapologetic #55 Collin Hansen: Tim Keller (1950-2023) on women, family life and homosexuality
We continue our conversation with Collin Hansen, author of ’Timothy Keller: His Spiritual and Intellectual Formation’, who highlights some of the key women in Keller’s life, particularly his wife Kathy. Hansen explains why Tim Keller was a complementarian and speaks about Keller’s brother, Billy, who died from AIDS in the 1990s.
Matters of Life & Death: Digital persecution: Deadly rumours on WhatsApp, a ‘Panopticon’ of censorship, the corrosion of trust, and China’s spreading surveillance state
The persecuted church today lives as it always has under the threat of arrest, imprisonment, physical attack, verbal threats and harassment, and even death. But today these traditional methods are supplemented by the technological revolution.
What can George Bush’s 1992 failed presidential campaign teach us about salvation?
Erik Strandness challenges us to rethink the way we share our faith for the sake of our young people
Unapologetic #54 Collin Hansen: Remembering Tim Keller (1950-2023)
Following the death of Tim Keller on Friday 19th May, Collin Hansen, author of ’Timothy Keller: His Spiritual and Intellectual Formation’ spoke to Ruth Jackson about Tim Keller’s early life and shared some of his favourite memories of the New York apologist.
Matters of Life & Death: Q&A: Helping unmarried couples have children and court-ordered blood transfusions
Today’s episode was recorded as part of the New Zealand Christian Medical Fellowship’s annual conference. Doctors there sent over two bioethical conundrums for us to chew over as part of a special episode of Matters of Life and Death.
Unapologetic #53 John Swinton: Disability, learning difficulties and dementia
John Swinton, professor in practical theology and pastoral care at Aberdeen University and a former psychiatric nurse, challenges the way we approach disability, ensuring we create spaces where everyone belongs and has their spiritual needs met. We also discuss difficult questions around dementia, such as what it means to know God when you have limited conceptual intellectual capacity.
Free at last: How an atheist addict was healed from addiction and suicidal thoughts
From a young age, Mark Goodnight experienced great suffering, including sexual abuse, alcoholism and depression. These events caused him to doubt God. As his life spiralled out of control, Mark reached out to the God he didn’t believe in and began to experience healing and restoration
Unapologetic #52 John Swinton: Supporting people with mental health challenges
May marks Mental Health Awareness Week, so we spoke to John Swinton, professor in practical theology and pastoral care at Aberdeen University, who spent 16 years as a psychiatric nurse. He shares his thoughts about how to care for those experiencing mental health difficulties, particularly young people.
Unapologetic #51 Lydia McGrew: Who is the true Jesus?
In the final part of her discussion with Ruth Jackson, Dr Lydia McGrew, an analytic philosopher and author of Testimonies to the Truth: Why you can Trust the Gospels, unpacks some of the more disconcerting elements of Jesus’ character and looks at how this impacts the veracity of the Gospel accounts. She also addresses how the loneliness and suffering of Jesus can speak to a hurting world.
Death to deconstruction: Can exvangelicals ever reconstruct their faith?
Erik Strandness reflects on an Unbelievable? discussion between punk singer-turned-pastor Josh Porter and former-Christian Jon Steingard, exploring why numerous young American evangelicals lose their faith and whether they’re ever able to get it back
Unbelievable? Rod Dreher & Louise Perry • Christianity, the Sexual Revolution and the future of the West
The Big Conversation - Episode 2 | Season 5
How should Christians respond to the Church’s dark history: Crusades and the Inquisition
Apologist Joel Furches corrects what he believes are a number of misconceptions about some of these historical events and explores what Christians should do about them
The CS Lewis Podcast #102 Alister McGrath: The CS Lewis phenomenon
In the final episode of our series focussing on McGrath’s book, CS Lewis: A Life, we look at why someone who expected to be forgotten within five years of his death has had such a lasting impact. Why is CS Lewis still so popular and how long will his appeal last? Plus, this is your last chance to register for the opportunity to win a copy of McGrath’s seminal biography of Lewis.
Unbelievable? Is God Dead? - Dr. John Lennox and Dave Rubin’s Big Conversation
This week we play Justin Brierley’s personal favourite episode: the discussion he hosted live in California, between Christian apologist John Lennox and US talk show host Dave Rubin, from 2019.
Unapologetic #49 Lydia McGrew: Is an evidential approach to Christianity feasible?
Dr Lydia McGrew, an analytic philosopher and author, became a Christian at the age of 4. She shares some of her story with Ruth Jackson, including her experience of being adopted, her prevailing wrestle with the problem of evil and why she’s passionate about an evidential approach to Christianity.
Dear Religion: What are you doing about teen suicide?
Neonatal physician Erik Strandness asks some challenging questions in light of many young people’s desperate struggles and explores what hope there is
The CS Lewis Podcast #101 Alister McGrath: Suffering, death and Lewis’ final years
In the 14th episode of our series focussing on McGrath’s book, CS Lewis: A Life, we look at Lewis’ deep anguish following the death of his wife, Joy Davidman, and explore his approach to suffering in A Grief Observed.
Unbelievable? Celebrating 17 years - Justin Brierley, Ruth Jackson, and Vince Vitale
The Unbelievable? show has been broadcasting for over 17 years. Justin Brierley and Ruth Jackson take a retrospective tour through highlights from the show from day one to some of the most significant debates that have been hosted, before being joined by Dr. Vince Vitale for a special announcement by Justin.
Ask NT Wright Anything #165 A pastor losing his faith writes in, plus more pastoral questions
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. Plus a musical treat from Tom. An archive show first broadcast in 2019.
Unapologetic #48 Jeremiah Johnston: Are there credible reasons to believe in God?
Dr Jeremiah Johnston, president of the Christian Thinkers Society and father to five children (including triplets!), shares his journey into apologetics, looking at the importance of engaging both the head and heart. As well as speaking about how to live distinctively, ask good questions and allow room for doubt, Jeremiah unpacks some of the big issues impacting young people today.
If Jesus really rose from the dead, why does it matter today?
Professor John Swinton, a former psychiatric nurse-turned practical theologian at Aberdeen University, reflects on the significance of the resurrection and its impact
What’s so good about Good Friday? And why is Holy Saturday significant?
Professor John Swinton, a former psychiatric nurse-turned practical theologian at Aberdeen University, reflects on the significance of Good Friday and Holy Saturday
If Jesus really rose from the dead, how does the resurrection make sense of our suffering?
Dr Jeremiah Johnston, author of ’Body of Proof: The 7 Best Reasons to Believe in the Resurrection of Jesus-and Why It Matters Today’ shares his thoughts on this painful topic
Unapologetic #47 Jeremiah Johnston: The 7 best reasons to believe Jesus rose from the dead
New Testament scholar Dr Jeremiah Johnston shares ground-breaking research from his new book ’Body of Proof: The 7 Best Reasons to Believe in the Resurrection of Jesus-and Why It Matters Today’. He also explains how we can experience overwhelming hope in the midst of great suffering if Jesus really rose from the dead.
Is there evidence for an afterlife?
Apologist Joel Furches looks at the soul, near death experiences and the resurrection of Jesus, examining their veracity and relevance
Was Jesus really crucified?
Apologists Nick Spencer and Joel Furches examine the evidence for the event at the heart of Christianity
What is Holy Week and why does it matter?
Professor John Swinton, a former psychiatric nurse-turned practical theologian at Aberdeen University, reflects on the events leading up to the death of Jesus and ponders their significance for our lives today
Unapologetic #46 John Swinton: darkness, death and extreme suffering - how Holy Week brings hope
In part two of his discussion with Ruth Jackson, Professor John Swinton shares what Holy Week means to him and explores what impact the suffering, death and resurrection of Jesus has on a world in need of hope.
Unapologetic #45 John Swinton: a psychiatric nurse-turned practical theologian on suffering, faith and spiritual care
Ruth Jackson speaks to John Swinton, professor in practical theology and pastoral care at Aberdeen University. Having spent 16 years as a psychiatric nurse, John speaks about the importance of spiritual care in medicine. He also shares his thoughts on the problem of suffering.
Does place matter? Lessons from Covid-19
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?
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
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
Matters of Life & Death: Listener questions: Polarised culture wars, the challenge of elder care, and childlike sexbots
To mark one year since Matters of Life and Death joined the Premier Unbelievable network, we have a special one-off episode answering some questions emailed in by listeners.
Ask NT Wright Anything #160 Why bother improving the world? Can Christians attain perfection?
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.
Unapologetic #43 Bruce Miller: Is Christianity true?
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.
The CS Lewis Podcast #95 Alister McGrath: CS Lewis’ international fame
In the ninth episode of our series focussing on McGrath’s book, CS Lewis: A Life, we look at some of Lewis’ popular literature and how his rising fame affected his reputation as an Oxford scholar. We discuss The Great Divorce, the Ransom Trilogy and some of the strengths and weakness of Mere Christianity. Plus, it’s not too late to register for the opportunity to win a copy of McGrath’s seminal biography of Lewis.
Unapologetic #42 Bruce Miller: If God exists why does he allow suffering?
Ruth Jackson continues her conversation with Bruce Miller, author of The 7 Big Questions: Searching for God, Truth, and Purpose. He highlights some of the arguments for the existence of God and unpacks one of life’s hardest questions, looking at moral evil, natural suffering and the Christian response to pain.
The CS Lewis Podcast #94 Alister McGrath: The wartime apologist
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.
Ask NT Wright Anything #158 Why don’t I hear from God any more?
Tom and Justin are back with a fresh batch of questions from listeners who are having trouble hearing from God. Nicole asks why ‘Ask and you shall receive’ doesn’t seem to work in practise? Shelagh says she doesn’t hear from God the way she used to - is it because of disobedience? Robert asks how you can tell if you have misheard from God? Tom also gives an update on his health and work and reflects on how he hears from God.
Unapologetic #41 Bruce Miller: Does life have a purpose?
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?
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
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
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?
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
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.
How should Christians respond to transhumanism?
Apologists Clinton Wilcox and Joel Furches explore some of the core principles of transhumanism and their ramifications
Ask NT Wright Anything #155 Making sense of Old Testament violence
Tom responds to listener Qs on Andy Stanley ‘unhitching’ Christianity from the Old Testament, the historicity of the Exodus, and the way that Greg Boyd interprets violent portraits of God in ‘The Crucifixion Of The Warrior God’. First broadcast in 2019.
Do you want to be healed?
Following a recent episode of Unbelievable? on miracle healing, Erik Strandness explores what we can learn about healing from the biblical account of the pool at Bethesda
Unapologetic #38 Lauren Windle: Finding God in the midst of addiction
Journalist Lauren Windle tells her story of getting sober from alcohol and cocaine, and shares how she encountered the God who changed her life.
Fighting against God – a staunch atheist encounters God after a suicide attempt
Roger Sherrer vehemently believed religion was poison. Jana Harmon shares his story of transformation here
Altar call
Erik Strandness reflects on the radical commitment of a god who shares in our suffering
Unapologetic #37 Alanzo Paul: a former opiate addict on how to reach young people
Originally from Canada, Alanzo Paul fell into a life of addiction after his parents’ divorce. Here, he shares some of his story with Ruth Jackson, including his reflections on working with Ravi Zacharias. He also looks at some of life’s big questions and suggests ways to reach the apathetic with the gospel.
Matters of Life & Death: Medical Assistance in Dying 2: Suicidal ideation, no crystal balls, conscientious objection, and Hippocrates’ successful medical practice
In our second conversation on Canada’s euthanasia regime, we chat with a Canadian doctor about the troubling expansion of Medical Assistance in Dying to those only suffering from mental illness.
The CS Lewis Podcast #89 Alister McGrath: CS Lewis and the Great War
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.
Dear Culture: What are you doing about teen suicide?
Erik Strandness voices his concerns about young people in today’s society and shares his thought on the rising number of teen suicides
Matters of Life & Death: Medical Assistance in Dying 1: Judicial activism, a ‘reasonably foreseeable’ death, the unacceptability of suffering, and reasons to stay alive
This week we speak with a Christian psychiatrist from Canada who has been involved in both the campaigning against the spread of euthanasia, and also figuring out on the ground how to care well for patients in a system which offers them the chance to take their own lives instead of receiving treatment.
Unapologetic #36 Trevin Wax: How to tackle objections to Christianity
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.
Running from God – a Jehovah’s Witness’ journey away from and back towards God
Claire Dooley grew up in a large religious family in Mississippi. Here, she shares some of her reasons for leaving the faith and why, after years of atheism and in her moment of deepest despair, she started exploring Christianity
The CS Lewis Podcast #88 Alister McGrath: CS Lewis’ unpleasant schooldays
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.
Unapologetic #35 Trevin Wax: Can Orthodoxy be thrilling?
Trevin Wax, author of award-winning book ‘The Thrill of Orthodoxy’, speaks to Ruth Jackson about what Orthodoxy is, how we articulate it in a modern context and why we should pass it on to the next generation.
How effective are ‘thoughts and prayers’ in times of great suffering?
As the new year unfolds in the shadow of rising living costs, raging war and a pervasive mental health crisis, Erik Strandness looks at what those in the midst of despair actually need
The CS Lewis Podcast #87 Alister McGrath: CS Lewis’ Irish childhood
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.
Unbelievable? Tim Keller Q&A on cancer, prayer and forgiveness
Tim Keller is a renowned thinker, writer and speaker who has been dubbed New York’s ‘pastor to skeptics’. In a live online show hosted by Ruth Jackson and Justin Brierley he answers audience questions on his journey with pancreatic cancer, his transformed prayer life and his new book ‘Forgive’.
When atheism isn’t enough – an intellectual’s search for meaning
Jana Harmon tells the story of a man who discovered hope in the place he least thought he would find it
The Top 10 Unbelievable? shows of 2022
Justin Brierley rounds up the most popular shows of the year
Unapologetic #33 Finding Jesus changed Christmas forever
As we approach a new year, we speak to three people from different backgrounds who found new life in Jesus. They share their stories and talk about how finding Jesus has changed the way they celebrate Christmas for ever.
How should we respond to racial injustice?
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
Joy in the trials: Why something better than happiness is promised at Christmas
As we enter a festive season full of “comfort and joy”, Erik Strandness looks at what biblical joy looks like and how we are to practise it in the midst of the darkness
Joy to the world?
Ruth Jackson recalls her experience of miscarriage at Christmas and reflects on experiencing pain, fear and doubt in a season of celebration and frivolity
Cannibalism really works for us
Author Mark Roques explores the logical outworkings of pragmatism
Unapologetic #28 Jon Tyson: Addressing objections, doubts and questions about the Christian faith
New York-based pastor Jon Tyson shares some of his thoughts about living as a Christian in a secular space.
Five top tips to reach young black people
Clare Williams, apologist and founder of Get Real shares her thoughts about reaching young people in the black community
Falling from Grace: Addressing power, leadership and abuse in the Church
Erik Strandness reflects on a recent webinar on sexual abuse and looks at the lessons we must learn
Does hell exist?
Apologist Joel Furches explores different opinions of hell and why its existence matters
We will remember
As we approach Remembrance Day and Veterans Day, Ruth Jackson reflects on the importance of remembering
Unapologetic #26 Clare Williams: Why young black people are leaving Christianity
Ruth Jackson speaks to apologist Clare Williams about black consciousness and why so many young black people are leaving the Church.
Unapologetic #25 Clare Williams: Why racial justice matters
Ruth Jackson speaks to apologist Clare Williams about racial justice, black pain and how the Church should respond.
Is there more to death than this?
Erik Strandness explores the significance of the afterlife, discerning whether there is any meaning to be found
Halloween: scary movies, religious belief and wish fulfilment
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
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’.
Rachael Denhollander: I am a sexual abuse survivor. Here’s how we can help others
Abuse survivor, Rachael Denhollander, shares her story and some thoughts around how to support victims of abuse
Can mystical experiences be trusted? New Testament scholar Dale Allison certainly thinks so
Erik Strandness explores the role of mystery in apologetics
Unbelievable? Are religious funerals ‘empty and platitudinous’? Ian Dunt & Andy Bannister
The Queen’s state funeral was watched by billions of people and marked by deep Christian symbolism. However, during the ceremony, atheist journalist Ian Dunt tweeted that he found it “empty and platitudinous, a cardboard shield against existential despair”.
Is God silent or have we muted Him?
Erik Strandness looks at how we can turn the tide on God’s voice being drowned out in our culture.
Unbelievable? Remembering Queen Elizabeth II - NT Wright, Gavin Ashenden & Ruth Jackson
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.
Unapologetic #17 Mary Jo Sharp: What about suffering?
Apologist Mary Jo Sharp talks to Justin Brierley about the problem of suffering and evil and what answers Christianity offers, based on her new video series ‘Darkroom Faith’.
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
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.
Ask NT Wright Anything #131 Help! I’m on the brink of atheism… Deconstruction and suffering
Tom offers advice to two people struggling with their faith. One is having doubts during a period of deconstruction, the other can’t get past the problem of suffering.
Mikhaila Peterson’s conversion story shows the value of redemptive suffering
Erik Strandness explores the apologetic lessons from Mikhaila Petereson’s Big Conversation
Matters of Life & Death: Suffering 2: Rediscovering lament, reciting psalms in bomb shelters, the Gethsemane prayer, and the realism of Christian hope
Resuming our conversation about suffering, we think through some faithful Christian responses to evil and loss.
Ask NT Wright Anything #128 Why did God make childbirth difficult? More questions about Eden and the Fall
Were Adam and Eve’s pre-fall bodies like the resurrected Jesus? Was marriage a post-fall accomodation? Why does Genesis say God made childbirth more difficult after the fall? NT Wright answers more questions on the Garden of Eden and the Creation story.
Matters of Life & Death: Suffering 1: ’Adamah’, mystery and presence, the ever-smiling Buddha, and the lamb slain from the creation of the world
The problem of suffering has been one of the most intractable and painful theological debates for centuries.
Unbelievable? Richard Dawkins & Francis Collins • Biology, Belief and Covid: Can science and faith be reconciled?
The Big Conversation - Episode 1 | Season 4
Putin’s Holy War: The religious roots of the Ukraine invasion - Fr Cyril Hovorun and Clifford Longley (+ Sergey Rakhuba)
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.
Send Proof: Is there medical evidence for miracles? Craig Keener, Michael Shermer and Elijah Stephens
Elijah Stephens, director of the documentary Send Proof, joins Justin to discuss his investigation into supernatural healing claims. Miracle researcher Craig Keener shares extraordinary stories - but is it enough to convince atheist skeptic Michael Shermer?
Unbelievable? Suffering & God in the Intensive Care Unit: Dean Mayes & Dan Paterson
Could the story of Christianity really be true? How do we make sense of suffering if so?
Unbelievable? Tom Holland on Christianity, persecution and the cross
Historian Tom Holland tells how his experiences among persecuted Christians and Yazidis in Iraq impacted his own intellectual and personal journey with Christianity.
Unbelievable? How should humans live in an inhuman world? Alan Noble and Kelly Kapic
Why are we increasingly anxious, stressed and obsessed with identity? What can Christianity offer to re-humanise us?
Unbelievable? Should people of faith support assisted dying? Rabbi Jonathan Romain vs Dr Mark Pickering
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?
Ask NT Wright Anything #76 Will my daughter see the child she lost? Qs about heaven and loved ones
What does Jesus mean by ‘many rooms in my father’s house’? Will my daughter see the child she lost in pregnancy? What about marriage in the resurrection? Tom answers questions on heaven and loved ones.
The CS Lewis Podcast #15 Mere Christianity on the problem of evil
In the fourth episode of the second series of The C.S. Lewis Podcast, professor Alister McGrath speaks to Ruth Jackson about how Lewis viewed sin and the role Christians have in fixing the brokenness of today’s world.
The CS Lewis Podcast #08 CS Lewis on the problem of pain
In the eighth episode of The C.S. Lewis Podcast, professor Alister McGrath speaks to Ruth Jackson about Lewis’ thoughts on suffering and pain.
Ask NT Wright Anything #63 Facebook Questions Pt. 2: Bereavement, other faiths & atonement
Tom answers more questions on atonement, other religions and caring for those who have lost loved ones, sent in by members of the NT Wright discussion group.
Unbelievable? Bishop Robert Barron and Alex O’Connor (Cosmic Skeptic) – Christianity or Atheism: Which makes best sense of who we are?
Bishop Robert Barron of Word on Fire and Alex O’Connor of the Cosmic Skeptic channel discuss the evidence for God, the nature of faith and the problem of suffering in the first episode of The Big Conversation season 3.
Ask NT Wright Anything #52 ‘I wish I didn’t exist’. Pain and suffering Part 2
Tom shares his thoughts on heart-breaking pastoral questions from listeners around how to respond to grief and mental health. You can listen to part one of the podcast here.
Ask NT Wright Anything #51 Pain and suffering Part 1
Tom shares his thoughts on the difficult questions listeners have around issues such as dementia, death, the global pandemic and whether God himself suffers.
NT Wright livestream Q&A
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.
Ask NT Wright Anything #38 Lockdown livestream – Tom answers questions on Facebook Live
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.
Unbelievable? Why doesn’t God end Coronavirus and mend the world? Justin Brierley
In a bonus mid-week episode Justin shares his own thoughts on why God doesn’t step in to stop ‘natural evils’ like coronavirus, plague and natural disasters.
How much is a life worth? Human dignity in the time of COVID.
As health systems come under pressure our culture‘s value of human life is being tested, says Esther O’Reilly
Tom Wright on being a Christian during Coronavirus ∕∕ Ask NT Wright Anything
In a podcast special recorded from his home in Oxford where he is self-isolating with his wife Maggie, Tom talks to Justin about the Coronavirus pandemic.
Why doesn’t God stop Coronavirus and mend the world?
It’s the most natural question in the world: If God is good and all powerful, then why doesn’t he just stop bad things happening? It’s something that individuals often ask at times of personal tragedy. As the Coronavirus sweeps across the world Justin Brierley offers an answer to the questions being asked by people all over the globe.
Unbelievable? Coronavirus: How will it change the church and the world? AJ Roberts, Mark Sayers and mystery guest
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.
The Buddha can’t make sense of suffering. Jesus does.
Erik Strandness’ work at an addiction treatment center showed him the difference between the path of Buddhism and Christianity.
Ask NT Wright Anything #12 Genesis, evolution, Adam and Eve and The Fall
Tom Wright joins Justin to answer listener questions on how to interpret the early chapters of Genesis, what he believes about the nature of Adam and Eve, whether suffering and death existed before the fall and much more… He also pulls out the guitar once more for a Genesis-themed song.
Andy Bannister vs Peter Singer • Do we need God to be good?
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? Andy Bannister vs Peter Singer – Do we need God to be good?
Justin is joined for the 6th episode of The Big Conversation by moral philosopher and atheist Peter Singer, professor of bioethics at Princeton University, and Christian theologian Andy Bannister of Solas Centre for Public Christianity.
How cancer healed my Dad
Jon Tilson was diagnosed with stage four bowel cancer in January 2017. He died 13 months later. Yet in many ways the illness changed his life for the better, as his daughter Sarah explains
This is one of the most significant books on human suffering you could ever read
Charles Strohmer reviews Walking through Twilight: A Wife’s Illness – A Philosopher’s Lament (IVP)
8 signs you’re confusing YOUR truth with THE truth
Drew Wilmot analyses the double standards atheists – and Christians – can display in approaching questions about God
3 reasons why God allows suffering
Why would a loving God allow suffering? With the release, of his new book Unbelievable? Why, after ten years of talking with atheists, I’m still a Christian Justin Brierley presents three ways to respond to the hardest question of them all
A Christian & an Atheist debate the purpose of suffering
Atheist philosopher, Julian Baggini and Christian apologist, Vince Vitale sat down with Justin Brierley to share their perspectives on the purpose of suffering.
Suffering Debate ∕∕ Unbelievable? with Justin Brierley
The full version of the debate on suffering. Justin is joined by Julian Baggini and Vince Vitale, as they go head to head on this most important question. Why Suffering?
Profile: Tim Keller
Ranked as one of America’s most influential Christians and with a ministry reaching sceptics from Manhattan to Mumbai, Tim Keller talks to Justin Brierley about inspiring a new generation of intellectually engaged evangelicals
Imagination, suffering, abortion & atheism 2013 Conference videos - Unbelievable?
Justin launches the Video Website of Unbelievable? The Conference 2013 www.premier.org.uk/apologetics
Where Was God When Will’s World Fell Apart?
It was in 1996 that Will Pearson-Gee’s world fell apart. One day while he was at work his wife his wife took their young son and daughter for a day at the beach. But driving home her car hit a lorry coming in the other direction.
Why Suffering? Sharon Dirckx & Alom Shaha - Unbelievable?
“Why?” is the title of the new book by Sharon Dirckx looking at God, evil and suffering. She interacts with atheist Alom Shaha as we ask “how can a loving God allow suffering?”
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