Theology
Why do Jews and Christians read the Bible differently? This book attempts an answer
If you want to understand why Jews read the Bible in the way they do, then The Bible With and Without Jesus may be worth a read, says Lois Tverberg
The CofE is split on sexuality, but structural differentiation is wrong. Christ calls us to unity
In response to the continued acrimony within the Church of England over Living in Love and Faith, Elliot Swattridge puts forward a biblical case against structural differentiation
Why ancient liturgy beats spontaneous prayer
Should our prayers be set, or spontaneous? Tony Wilson suggests that liturgy should be used as a springboard for our own personal prayers. He explains why
The Bible is not safe
This global history of the Bible is full of fascinating stories, says our reviewer
The God Story - Alain Emerson and Adam Cox
Familiarity can often dull our sense of wonder, so it’s unsurprising that many readers of the Bible become numb to God’s redemptive plan woven through every page and person. The God Story may just shake you out of your slumber.
Should your church be a ‘safe space’?
Navigating the delicate balance between protection and exposure, Lucy Peppiatt makes the case for embracing discomfort and adopting ‘brave spaces’, where our Christian beliefs can be respectfully challenged
How does God speak to us today?
RT Kendall makes the case for embracing both holy scripture and Holy Spirit
For our daughters: When womanhood is defined by submission to men, it opens the door to abuse
A new documentary attempts to explain how abuse has been allowed to fester in US evangelical churches. Greg Garrett says For Our Daughters is urgent and important, and will challenge Christians to return to the way of Christ
Responding to racism: 3 Black writers on being othered
This Black History Month, Rev Isaac Lawrence looks to the Bible and three famous Black figures for wisdom in creating a less divided world
This suicide pod is horrific. But it’s the logical result of our consumer society
Assisted suicide is the ultimate expression of individualism, says Tony Wilson. But we can’t control all aspects of our lives, and Christians have good reasons to surrender their wants and desires to God
Jailbreak: A new way of illustrating the good news
Sin has imprisoned us in a fallen world, says David Instone-Brewer. But one day, Jesus will return to set the captives free
#TradCath: Why Gen Z rebellion means converting to Catholicism
Samantha Smith’s return to the faith of her childhood was, in part, encouraged by the traditional Catholic influencers she found online. She explores why young people are drawn to them
Diarmaid MacCulloch is the latest victim of the Church's toxic tribalism over sexuality
The eminent church historian seems unable or unwilling to properly engage with Christians who think differently to him, observes Tim Wyatt
The 3 women who challenged Jesus
When Jesus was confronted by the audacious faith of three females who risked everything to get what they needed from God, he responded in ways that shocked those around him. Chris Goswami unpacks the unexpected lessons we can learn from their bold encounters
Do all religions lead to God?
Pope Francis has caused controversy by seeming to suggest all paths lead to God. But if this was the case, the apostles wouldn’t have so passionately preached the gospel to the Greeks, Romans or Jews - or died for their exclusivist beliefs, says John Stevens. And Christians wouldn’t need to share the gospel today
African Methodists fear aid will be withdrawn as Western church liberalises on sexuality
At its most recent conference in the USA, the United Methodist Church removed the prohibition on considering openly LGBT candidates for ordained ministry. There’s a growing divide between Africa and the West on sexuality, reports Winile Ximba
Rumours of a Better Country - Marsh Moyle
The Ten Commandments are really all about freedom, Marsh Moyle says in this fascinating and easy-to-read book.
The Hope in Our Scars - Aimee Byrd
This is a book for those of us who have either struggled with a church, left a church or perhaps have friends in the process of deconstructing.
Did Jesus descend to hell after he died on the cross?
Tom Wright gives his answer
A bitter pill: Why Christians are rethinking contraception
Christian attitudes towards contraception have changed radically during the past century. As young women start to question its use, is it time for the Church to do the same?
Churches should allow their buildings to be used for horror films
The Church of England has denied permission for director Danny Boyle to film his upcoming zombie apocalypse movie inside a church. But James Cary thinks the church has made the wrong decision. He explains why
3 words that have split the Church
What’s in a word? Time and again, Christians have divided over one single word, says Chris Goswami. Whether it’s a reference to the virgin birth, mentioning the Father and the Son in the creeds or how we talk about same-sex relationships today, is there a better way?
‘Black Theology is taking Christianity back to its origins’
Anthony Reddie has made history by becoming the first Black professor in the University of Oxford’s theology department. But what is Black Theology, and how can it serve the Church?
Ken Ham: ‘You can’t take evolution and add it to the Bible’
Why is secularism on the rise? How did the Church become so lukewarm? The world’s best-known creationist says it’s because Christians have been undermining the authority of God’s word
What Happens Next - Max Lucado
The rapture is imminent. We are in the “fourth quarter” of the world, according to American Christian author Max Lucado. But What Happens Next isn’t full of doom and gloom. It’s a surprisingly positive take on the end of the world.
Dear Christians, let’s not talk about finding our ‘tribe’
The Bible emphasises unity between believers, observes Lucy Peppiatt. So why do Christians talk about their own ‘tribes’?
Polyamory is becoming normal. Here’s how Christians can respond
Writing during the Week of Visibility for Non-Monogamy, which aims to “normalise” relationships of three or more people, Andrew Bunt suggests three ways Christians can prepare to face new questions on sexual ethics
If my loved one doesn’t know Jesus, will they still go to heaven when they die?
The death of a someone close to you is a deeply painful time. When they don’t have a Christian faith, or we don’t know what they believe, it can be even more difficult. Will Dobbie recounts his own experience and offers some hope
Exclusive: Bishops call for LLF re-think for sake of unity
Writing ahead of next week’s General Synod, where the Church of England will consider offering stand alone services where same-sex couples can be blessed, eleven Church of England bishops warn such action would go against church doctrine and further endanger the unity of the church
Will I be married in heaven?
Tom Wright answers your questions
God is revealing the secret sins of Christian leaders
It’s only a matter of time before all is revealed, says RT Kendall. Either in this life, or the next
Is LGBT ideology a new kind of colonialism?
Christian leaders in the UK have spoken of making amends for Britain’s colonial past, yet many Africans say that when it comes to sexuality, the West is still imposing its beliefs on them today. Heather Tomlinson explores the widening international chasm on sexual ethics
Did God give the land of Israel to the Jews?
God makes promises to both Jews and Arabs when it comes to land in the Middle East, observes David Instone Brewer
Who was the woman at the well?
This famous biblical story has long been misunderstood, says Dr Lucy Peppiatt
Islam: Navigating the choppy waters of interfaith relations
Jesus came to bring both truth and love. Has the Church followed its master when it comes to the increasingly tense and complex subject of British Islam?
Dr Aaron Edwards: ‘We assume that causing offence is unchristian. But that’s nonsense’
The former theology lecturer on why he still stands by the viral social media post that cost him his job
Explained: Why is everyone up in arms about “Christ is King”?
A row has exploded on X (formerly Twitter) over the phrase “Christ is King”. Surely this is something all Christians believe. So why has it become contentious? Heather Tomlinson explains
The Bible and science agree - you really are ‘made in God’s image’
Recent scientific discoveries suggest that, contrary to earlier theories, every strand of our DNA is deeply significant. Writing on International Day of the Unborn Child, Catherine Disher says the news is further evidence that human beings have been perfectly created in the image of God.
There wasn't any punctuation in the original scriptures, but your Bible has plenty
The Bible did not fall to earth in flawless English and bound in leather. It has been translated by scholars who are tasked not only with finding the right words, but inserting punctuation too. These colons, commas and more can make a big difference to how we read the text, as Dr Jonathan Rowlands explains
Friend of God - John C Lennox
Reading John Lennox is like getting in the ring with a heavyweight boxer. Intimidating. This book is no lightweight Christian paperback but brings big challenge and muscular theology that certainly packs a punch.
How can I know I’m truly saved?
Tom Wright answers your questions
Warrior women: What does the Bible say?
David Instone-Brewer explores what scripture teaches about women in wartime
Acclaimed novelist Marilynne Robinson on Reading Genesis, imagining heaven and (not) insulting God
The Pulitzer Prize-winning author says she’s proof that the world isn’t as antagonistic towards Christians as many assume
Is this the face of Jesus?
Interest in the Shroud of Turin continues to be insatiable. As the Church remembers Christ’s death and resurrection this Easter, a world leading scholar in the study of the Shroud explains why he’s so confident this really is the burial cloth of Jesus
Worried about young people deconstructing their faith? This book might help you
Rejecting scripture as the arbiter of Christian belief and replacing it with your own personal judgements is destructive, say the authors of a new book on deconstruction. The fightback is on
Hearing the Message of Ecclesiastes - Christopher J H Wright
This commentary on Ecclesiastes will make you grateful that this strange book is in your Bible, says our reviewer
Don’t just praise God for what he does. Praise him for who he is
Proclaiming God’s nature and power brings peace and perspective, says Lucy Peppiatt
'Two of my friends just died, and I’m devastated. But I know God understands'
Prayer is central in all that we do but at times of agony it matters more than ever, says Michael Coren
How Valentine’s Day and Lent both point to God’s perfect love
Valentine’s Day and Ash Wednesday fall on the same date this year. But what do a commercialised day celebrating romance and a period of religious fasting have in common? A surprising amount, suggests Andrew Bunt
Help! Science is pushing me toward atheism. How can I still be a Christian?
Tom Wright answers your questions
Who did Cain marry?
The identity of Cain’s wife has long troubled Christians. David Instone-Brewer proposes a new way of thinking about the problem
The theologian I most admire
Eight Christians pay tribute to the thinkers who have most influenced them
The Methodist Church is wrong. ‘Husband’ and ‘wife’ are not offensive terms
The latest iteration of the Methodist’s ‘Inclusive Language Guide’, suggests replacing ‘husband’ and ‘wife’ with neutral terms to avoid offence. But these are biblical terms imbued with theological meaning, argues Aaron Edwards. We lose them at our peril
The most popular Bible verse of 2023 isn’t sweet and comforting, it’s challenging and disturbing
The promise of God’s strength in the face of fear is a comforting truth, but Isaiah 41 also warns God’s people against setting up idols in their lives. Are we prepared to take the challenge as well as the comfort contained in the Bible?
The Pope’s guidance on same-sex blessings will cause confusion
If you read it closely, the Fiducia Supplicans does not move away from the Catholic Church’s historic teaching on sex outside of marriage. But in saying anything at all, the Vatican has introduced confusion, says Peter D. Williams. It is an act of gross imprudence
Consider him - Catherine Campbell
In her second devotional, author Catherine Campbell aims to centre our hearts and minds on the essence of Christ. Guiding readers through a year-long journey, she explores the character and actions of Jesus.
'If I have not love...' How to be a healthy leader
In unpacking New Testament teaching on tongues, Lucy Peppiatt observes how Paul combatted pride and elitism in the early Church
Are all sins the same?
It’s complicated, says Ian Paul. He explains why the Bible give two different answers, and why it’s important for Christians come to the right conclusions on sexual ethics
Why sex outside marriage is a salvation issue
Christians can’t agree to disagree on sexual ethics, says John Stevens. There’s too much at stake
Israel-Gaza war: Don't ignore what the Bible actually says
Does the Bible suggest that God will bring the Jewish people back to the land?
The end of woman - Carrie Gress
Until recently, only a few lone voices dared question whether feminism was really good for women, or society as a whole. That has changed. Unfortunately, some of the new critics are deeply misogynistic and unpleasant, such as much-discussed influencer Andrew Tate.
More than just friends - early Church community was radical
Being part of a community of believers wasn’t just a ‘nice-to-have’ for the first Christians. Fellowship was vital for a family’s wellbeing, explains David Instone-Brewer
Come, Lord Jesus: Longing for Jesus’ return this Advent
In this season of Advent, the Church doesn’t just look back to the birth of Jesus in a stable, but forward to Christ’s second coming, says Rt Rev Dr Jill Duff
Why Christians are joining the board games resurgence
Interest in tabletop games is booming. They’re no longer confined to the festive season, says Chris Sinkinson
Christmas as you’ve never seen it before
A Church of England priest introduces her artistic re-imaginings of the first Christmas
Is the Prince of Persia causing chaos in Gaza?
Christians around the world are praying fervently for peace in the Middle East, yet the fighting continues. Are our prayers being hindered? A peculiar story from the Old Testament may help us understand what’s going on, says David Instone-Brewer
Loving our own bones - Julia Watts Belser
“Everything I know about God comes through these disabled bones,” writes Julia Watts Belser, historian of ancient religion, Jewish rabbi and disabled activist. In her latest book, Loving Our Own Bones (Hodder & Stoughton), these three strands of her identity combine in a provocative and scholarly commentary on ableism in ...
The way of love: St Paul's answer to leadership failure in the church
When the early church was in a mess, Paul’s radical teaching helped convict leaders of their sin. His words are as relevant today as they’ve ever been, says Lucy Peppiatt
Francis Spufford: ‘Christianity is for adults like me, who mess up and see no way out’
The critically acclaimed author talks about swearing, messing up his marriage and why Christian art is sometimes a little bit rubbish
The Old Testament depicts horrific violence against women. How should we read these stories?
From rape to bullying to murder, the Old Testament contains stories that should shock us. Rosie Dawson speaks to leading theologians in order to find out how Christians should understand them
Listening to the Jewish Jesus - Paul Luckraft
The rediscovery of the Jewishness of Jesus, and of the early Church, has been a major theme in recent biblical scholarship. The 2,000-year gap since these events occurred means we often read the biblical text without appreciating the cultural and historic context.
Does the Bible Support Same-Sex Marriage?
Does the Bible Support Same-Sex Marriage? is an outstanding book, says our reviewer
What does it mean to "live by the Spirit"? These scientific insights might help
Neuroscience might provide some unexpected answers to two complex theological questions, says David Instone-Brewer
Is it possible to end poverty?
After decades of progress in the fight against extreme poverty, experts are now warning the United Nations will miss its goal of ending poverty by 2030. Tim Wyatt speaks to practitioners and theologians to find out what’s going wrong, and what Jesus meant when he said, “the poor you will always have with you.”
‘Woke’ and the problem with ‘that’s not in the Bible’ arguments
There are a great many things not specifically mentioned in scripture, says Jonty Langley. So using it as a defence against any idea you don’t like may leave you on shaky ground
The Euphrates river is drying up, but don’t get too excited about end times prophecies
Are recent reports that the Euphrates River is drying up an indicator of end times, or just a result of climate change? And should Christians care either way? Chris Follett explores the evidence
Can a person be inherently evil?
The case of serial killers such as Lucy Letby raises hard questions about the nature of evil. There may be no neat answer, but biblical principles can provide some guidance, says Dr Matthew Knell
Christian leaders’ silence on animal welfare is scandalous
Christians have biblical and historical reasons to defend the rights of animals, says Joyce D’Silva. So why are most leaders silent on the issue?
Nicky Gumbel was right to meet the Pope and strive for Christian unity
When Rev Nicky Gumbel shared a photo of him meeting the Pope last week, it resulted in heavy criticism from some Christians. But Jesus never said, “Go and be right”, says Christy Wimber. Instead he prayed that we would be brought to complete unity
‘Jesus Barbie’ looks blasphemous. But it may also have prophetic power
Christians have unsurprisingly objected to plastic dolls which depict Jesus as Barbie. But Dr Peter Harris believes there are spiritual lessons to be gleaned from this controversial artistic stunt
Deconstruct faith, discover Jesus - Preston Ulmer
All Christians need to examine their beliefs and practices, according to the author of this book. Here’s our review
Banning Conversion Therapy - Patricia Morgan
This book insists that banning conversion therapy constitutes a serious threat to freedom speech and should be resisted at all costs, says our reviewer
5 heresies Christians would rather ignore
Dr Lee Gatiss has argued Christians must be bolder in confronting false teaching. Jonty Langley agrees, but believes Christians have had too narrow a view of what constitutes heresy
Heresy! Why Christians must confront false teaching
The controversial Jesus of Nazareth often refuted false teaching. His followers should be prepared to do the same, says Dr Lee Gatiss
‘My wife’s death was tragic, but God is still good’
When Brad Franklin’s wife died suddenly, aged 37, she was pregnant with the couple’s seventh child. Four years on, Brad reflects on returning to ministry, widowhood, remarriage and glorifying God in our suffering
The Ultimate guide to the Bible - Joseph M Holden
The principle of representing the Bible’s wealth of information in graphic form is a noble one. But it’s already been done.
Created to Dream - Rick Warren
Created to Dream is Rick Warren’s first book in ten years. Fans of The Purpose Driven Life will be pleased to see the pastor retaining his accessible and down-to-earth approach to theology.
Jesus wasn’t white, but many Black Christians still see him that way. It has to change
When Dr Victoria Omotoso showed Black South Africans films which depicted Jesus as both Black and white, most chose white Jesus as the most historically accurate. It just goes to show how far we have to go in decolonising the image of our saviour, she says
AI can run a church service or it might end the world. But it can’t replicate God’s divine love
As a consortium of AI experts warn of the risk of human extinction at the hands of AI, hundreds attended a church service in Germany generated and hosted by ChatGPT. How should Christians view such things, asks George Pitcher? Can we find a theology of AI?
Tim Keller (1950-2023): The evangelical statesman was a pastor first
Tim Keller had a soft spot for the UK, notes Krish Kandiah. The pastor, theologian and best-selling author exerted a worldwide influence while maintaining a humble spirit and modelling generosity towards those he disagreed with
This article won’t change your mind
Your mind is tricking you, making you blind to truth, explains Chris Goswami. But it is possible to think more clearly about God, theology and the Bible. Here's how
Our society wants justice. But God’s justice doesn’t always seem fair
God’s justice isn’t the same as ours, explains George Pitcher
A curious faith - Lore Ferguson
A Curious Faith will especially help those who are perhaps flirting with deconstruction, asking questions about the faith they’ve inherited. Ferguson Wilbert makes space for doubt within an orthodox theology: “I need God to be more sovereign than I am, more faithful, more kind, more creative, more of every good ...
Better than fire
Writing ahead of Pentecost Sunday, Lucy Peppiatt says the greatest gift the early Church received was not signs and wonders, but a fresh revelation of the love of God
Jesus rose from the dead. Here are 3 reasons why we can be confident
Two thousand years on, why are Jesus’ teachings still so influential in our world today? And why is he appearing in people’s dreams? The answer to that question lies in the evidence for his death and resurrection, says Justin Bass
The Archbishop of Canterbury must repent for abandoning biblical truth on sex
In his opening address to the Global Anglican Futures Conference (GAFCON), Most Rev Foley Beach had stern words for the leader of the Church of England. Here’s his speech in full
Confused about the end times? Start here
Working out what the Bible says about the end of days is difficult. But that doesn’t mean we should be complacent or disengage from the issue, says Chris Follett. Jesus is the hope of the world, and the world needs him now more than ever
Is kindness killing the Church?
When doctrinal disputes arise it's easy to politely agree to disagree. But Dr Hugh Osgood believes such "kindness" is detrimental to the health of the Church. We need to start listening to one another, he says, because each denomination has something valuable to offer. Let's trust that the unity of the Spirit will undergird us, even in the toughest of conversations
The Word - John Barton
John Barton’s understanding of the nuances of Bible translation flow from a lifetime of study. In The Word he shows how it has been key at critical junctures in history.
Jesus hasn't returned yet. Why not?
In the first century, something or someone stopped Jesus’ second coming. David Instone-Brewer explores what happened and asks: What is it that is holding him back today?
The failure of God
A theology of Holy Saturday is for all those who cannot see the way ahead – who suffer, fail or doubt. Between Good Friday and Easter Sunday is where true spiritual growth happens, says Bishop Emma Ineson
Rick Warren: Why I changed my mind on women in church leadership
The author of The Purpose Driven Life reveals the Bible verses that convinced him to ordain female leaders at Saddleback church
Phil Moore: 'If I'd thought about how long it takes to write a commentary on the Bible I never would have started!'
The London based pastor Phil Moore has spent the past decade writing a commentary on every book of the Bible. Having just completed the mammoth project, he tells Sam Hailes what he's learned through studying the scriptures in their original languages, and why those struggling to read the Bible in a year should be less hard on themselves
Before we can fully celebrate Easter, we need the wilderness of Lent
Everyone loves the celebration of Easter Sunday, but not so much the long season of preparation that is Lent. But if we try to skip straight to the good part, we miss the spiritual depth that God is looking to grow in us, says Aaron Damiani
People say silly things during Lent. Now you can tick them off your Lent Bingo card!
The fact that Lent – the most unfun festival in the Christian calendar – has survived this long must be down to a work of God, says Jonty Langley. However you’re marking it this year, why not join in with our game of Lent Bingo
Biblical critical theory - Christopher Watkin
There are times when our culture seems conflicted and confusing and the things we normally rely on to help us navigate our way through the fog seem to fail us.
Proud to be a ‘Biblical Christian’? Here’s why that might be a problem…
I recently polled my Instagram followers, asking them three questions: “Is it important to you to be a ‘biblical Christian’?”, “Is it important to challenge leaders whose worldview is ‘unbiblical’?” and “Have you actually read the whole Bible?”.
Why God’s preferred pronouns are he/him
The Church of England is considering alternatives to referring to God as “he” after priests asked to be allowed to use gender-neutral terms. Some have said a change in language would make the church more inclusive. But Lois Tverberg disagrees. She argues Christians should embrace the fact that God chose to reveal himself through male images in the Bible
Dining with Jesus - Kate Jackson
Kate Jackson’s brilliant book is marketed as “a seven course Bible study” – seven chapters, seven meals with Jesus. It will be well received by small group leaders everywhere. There are excellent individual and group questions, quotes from biblical scholars, useful cultural insights and thoughtful reflections from the author.
Loving disagreement - Christopher Landau
Have you ever disagreed with another Christian? Do you have questions about the bounds of Church unity, or wonder at what point you should leave a church or recognise a state of disunity? Writing from an Anglican perspective, Christopher Landau’s new book aims to tackle these questions.
‘Farewell, Rob Bell’
We’re twelve years on from ‘Bellgate’ - the furore over the release of Rob Bell’s controversial book on heaven and hell. But Chine McDonald says the questions raised by that episode are more pertinent than ever
Paul does condemn all same-sex activity
Responding to David Instone-Brewer’s claims that God only condemned certain types of homosexual relationships, Ian Paul argues that there is no such basis in scripture
Did Paul condemn all homosexuality?
David Instone-Brewer wrestles with the key biblical texts that appear to condemn gay sex
Why the biblical story of Jacob and Esau offers hope for William and Harry
If we’re looking for hope of a royal reconciliation, it’s Jacob and Esau we must look to, not Cain and Abel, says George Pitcher
The sexual reformation - Aimee Byrd
The Song of Songs is a controversial book. Erotic poem or allegory of Jesus’ love for the Church? Aimee Byrd’s latest offering sets out to explore this often-misunderstood portion of scripture, using it as a lens through which to explore the issue of male-female relationships.
Why did God send angels to minister to Jesus?
In her debut column, Dr Lucy Peppiatt wonders why Jesus needed something more than the Holy Spirit to comfort him in the desert
Editor’s picks: 15 best features from 2022
Premier Christianity has been at the forefront of unpacking all the big stories of 2022 from a distinctly Christian perspective. Here’s a round-up of our favourite long-reads the year
Advent isn’t about chocolate calendars. It’s about the return of Jesus Christ
Advent is a time for reflecting on the return of Jesus Christ. But such a tricky task requires imagination, not logic, says Graham Tomlin
Lydia - Paula Gooder
The latest book from New Testament scholar Paula Gooder is her second work of fiction, and follows the story of Lydia, mentioned only fleetingly in the New Testament (Acts 16 and Philippians).
Good and beautiful and kind - Rich Villodas
Good and Beautiful and Kind is a theological book with some biographical elements, which aims to help Christians live out the gospel more authentically.
Did the virgin birth really happen?
The Bible scholar NT Wright gives his answer
Why doesn’t life make sense?
Looking for answers? Draw near to the one who gives life it’s meaning, suggests David Instone-Brewer, as he takes a closer look at the book of Ecclesiastes
How can the Church reach a spiritually curious generation? Two social media influencers explain
Many younger people are put off by organised religion. Justin Brierley speaks to two social media influencers, Mikhaila Peterson and Jon McCray, about their conversion stories and how Christians can better reach millennials and Gen Z
All attempts to disprove scripture have failed. The Bible truly is God’s word
Despite 2,000 years of people trying to disprove the Bible, no one has ever succeeded. And that’s why you can trust that scripture is truly God’s inspired word, says Brian Brodersen
The Bishop of Oxford's surprising case for same-sex marriage is flawed
The Bishop of Oxford, Rt Rev Dr Steven Croft has come out publicly in favour of the Church of England changing its doctrine of marriage to include same-sex partnerships. But having studied the bishop's 48-page booklet, entitled Together in Love and Faith, Ian Paul believes the arguments are unconvincing
Communion, silence and Armistice Day: Why remembrance matters
Ahead of Remembrance Sunday, Caroline Pattenden considers the significance of the God-given directive to remember Jesus during Communion
What does the word 'gospel' mean?
You might be surprised to know that the word ‘gospel’ was first used to describe the Roman Caesar. But what does it mean today in our post-Christian culture?
What does it mean to fear God?
In spite of its negative connotations, fear is a common word in the Old Testament. Lois Tverberg explains how Christians should understand it
The Chosen exclusive: Behind the scenes of the TV show aiming to reach one billion for Christ
Ahead of the launch of Season 3 of the largest crowdfunded TV show of all time, our editor was invited to Texas to meet the cast and crew of The Chosen. Here’s what he discovered
Why Christians should support moving the British embassy to Jerusalem
The leaders of the largest churches in the UK have all opposed moving the British embassy from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem. But Dr James Patrick says their views are not representative of many in the pews
‘Twerk & Snake Eyes’: Did you know these disciples changed their names to avoid embarassment?
In exploring why God changed the name of key biblical characters, David Instone-Brewer wonders whether it might be time for modern Christians to drop the ‘Evangelical’ label
Jesus Christ Superstar: Offensive blasphemy or evangelistic tool?
Billy Graham said it bordered on blasphemy. Comedian Tim Minchin dubbed it a ‘radical atheist’ production. But 50 years on from its London debut, this classic rock musical endures. Were the protests of yesteryear misguided?
'The heavens declare the glory of God' Why these stunning images point to a creator
The James Webb telescope is sending back unprecedented images, including of a planet beyond our solar system. It's hoped the $10bn project will shed light on the origins of the universe, and perhaps even the search for alien life. Chris Goswami speaks to Christian astronomers to find out how they're interpreting the images, and why they see no contradiction between science and their faith
How our church is studying the Bible with Christians in Burundi
A church in Norwich is learning from the experiences of Christians 6,000 miles away, as two congregations come together to study the scriptures over Zoom
Ruler of kings: A full frontal-attack on secularism
Joseph Boot gives the proverbial boot to secular humanism in the public square
Hidden disciples: Rediscovering Jesus’ female followers
Far from being a male-only cast, there were plenty of women among Jesus’ disciples and the early Church leaders.
Why I left evangelicalism behind to become a Roman Catholic
Tony Wilson spent 30 years in the evangelical Church before converting to Catholicism. He describes his extraordinary journey
Christians are losing the culture war…but so is everyone else. What would Jesus do?
In everything from trans rights to the inclusion of gay people in our churches, people on both sides of the debate believe they’re losing the argument. Jamie Cutteridge explores why
Open for liberation: Why this activist’s reading of the Bible falls short
Was Jesus a revolutionary leader of a non-violent, anti-colonial movement which advocated for the dispossessed and affirmed racial equality and sexual diversity?
Is complementarian theology abusive?
In the wake of abuse scandals and the #MeToo movement, Megan Cornwell asks: is it time for Christians to re-evaluate Church teaching on gender roles?
The biblical case for egalitarianism
Margaret Mowczko looks at what the Bible says about men and women
The biblical case for complementarianism
Sharon James looks at what the Bible says about men and women
Why I'm pleased Creflo Dollar has changed his mind on tithing
Creflo Dollar has become the latest celebrity pastor to change his position on prosperity teaching. Adesanya Adewusi asks: Did he go far enough?
12 Things God can’t do - Nick Tucker
This book will put you to sleep…in a good way. Nick Tucker firmly believes that good theology is a source of rest and peace from our anxieties and, in this book, he sets out to prove it.
We’ve misunderstood the Pharisees. Jesus wasn’t that critical of them
When read in their cultural contexts, Jesus’ responses to the Jewish teachers look far less harsh than what many have assumed, says Lois Tverberg
Does allowing same-sex marriage result in church decline? Here's what the numbers show
There are no growing church denominations in the UK that don’t hold a traditional view on sexuality and marriage, according to a new report. But is it that simple? Dr Ian Paul investigates
3 things to stop doing with the Bible
Are you guilty of any of these…?
Why I’ve stopped using male pronouns for God
When you’ve spent your whole life referring to God as ‘he’, moving away from male pronouns for the divine takes a little getting used to.
Solving the problem of holiness
David Instone-Brewer explains how the removal of sin enables us to survive God’s presence
Forget growth strategies and church management, theology is the beating heart of the Christian faith
Far from being boring and irrelevant, theology is how the Church finds the words to describe the treasure it has been entrusted with, says Alister McGrath. Without it, Christianity collapses
End times theology: Why Russia's invasion of Ukraine is significant
The spirit of antichrist is present in much of the world, including Russia, says theologian and end times teacher John Hosier. He explains why world events are a challenge to church leaders to once again start preaching about the second coming of Christ
What finding Jesus taught me about my Jewish roots
When Jennifer Rosner became a Christian at university, she had no idea that her new-found faith would lead her ever deeper into her Jewish heritage. Here, she shares her story
No, Jesus wasn’t married
Lee Wilson recently argued that Jesus could have been married. Lois Tverberg responds
Living in Love and Faith: A critical assessment of the CofE's sexuality course
The Church of England has been encouraging its congregations to "grow together" on issues related to sexuality, identity, relationships and marriage. Nigel Griffiths has been taking part and helping to facilitate the church's Living in Love and Faith (LLF) course, and offers his reflections on what has - and hasn't - worked
How to halt the decline
Why is UK Church attendance falling, and what can we do about it? 12 leaders respond
Will God only forgive me if I forgive others?
Q: I’ve got a deep regard for the Sermon on the Mount but I’ve always been bothered by Matthew 6:15: “But if you do not forgive others their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins.” Likewise, the Lord’s Prayer says: “Forgive us our sins, as we forgive those who ...
The King is Alive: Why the resurrection makes all the difference
In explaining the connection between the Old and New Testaments, Lois Tverberg unpacks why the resurrection of Jesus really does change everything
Could Jesus have been married?
The Bible doesn’t answer the question. But it does give us some clues, says Lee Wilson
What really happened to Jesus on the cross?
RT Kendall reflects on the emotions Christ experienced at Calvary
Did God punish Jesus on the cross?
The doctrine of penal substitutionary atonement has divided Christians in recent years. David Instone-Brewer takes a fresh look at what the Bible says
Christ 'emptying himself' is a neglected doctrine. We must reclaim it this Easter
The Bible contains many different metaphors that explain what Jesus achieved on the cross. But David Instone-Brewer says this doctrine is special
How did a gifted Christian minister become an atheist? I met him to find out
Seth Walker went from the heights of evangelical passion and unquestioning trust in God to total loss of faith and attempted suicide. Chris Goswami says there are lessons from Seth's life that the Church needs to learn
This Christian teaching suggests it's ethical for Ukraine to fight (and for us to arm them)
Can Christians ever justify war? Yes, says Prof Nigel Biggar. He explains the just war theory, a doctrine of military ethics, and how it applies to Ukraine, while encouraging us all to keep praying for peace
The prodigal son ends on a cliffhanger...What happened next?
Despite being the leader of a church for many years, Alistair Forman didn’t fully appreciate the grace of God. When he delved deeper into the parable of the prodigal son, he discovered a loving father who really is as good as he says he is
Easter reflection: Why Jesus is still the hope of the world
Jesus’ resurrection takes place against a backdrop of grief and despair. As the world grapples with war in Europe, Rachael Newham reflects on how the sadness of Good Friday and Holy Saturday reveals a king who came to minister to us not through power and might but through scars and tears
I was taught that charismatic worship manipulates my emotions. But I can't 'explain away' those holy moments
Anyone who has studied theology understands how much of a challenge it can be to your faith. I arrived at university, many years ago, having grown up in conservative evangelicalism and having had little reason – or opportunity – to question its theological teachings. So when I began my study, ...
Archaeologists are divided on David’s Kingdom. The Bible contains the clue they’re looking for
Archaeologists have long claimed that David and Solomon’s kingdoms were just exciting myths. David Instone-Brewer explains why we can trust the Old Testament’s version of history
3 things the Bible says about war
The Bible doesn't give us the simple answers we crave, especially when it comes to the war in Ukraine. So what does it say? Rev Mark Woods looks at three challenging Old Testament passages
The CofE’s refusal to teach on the moral issues of the day is reprehensible
The Church of England is providing less moral clarity on the key issues of the day than most FTSE 100 companies, says this ex-Catholic ordinand’s wife.
Pat Robertson thinks Russia’s invasion of Ukraine is a fulfilment of end times prophecy. Is he right?
Some Christians and Jews have viewed recent events as a partial fulfilment of Old Testament prophecy. Evangelical scholar Dr Calvin Smith looks at the biblical evidence
Skillet has ‘declared war’ on deconstruction. But I think questions are healthy
The frontmen of two of the biggest Christian bands in the world hold opposing views on faith and doubt. Rend Collective’s Chris Llewellyn responds to John Cooper of Skillet’s contentious remarks
Doubt is becoming trendy. Even among Christians
It is time to stand firm in the truth, says Chris Schorah, as he encourages Christians to eschew doubt and deconstruction
10 sayings you didn’t realise came from the Bible
Convinced you’ve heard that saying before? Nope, it’s not Shakespeare, says Paul Kerensa, it comes from the Bible. There’s more wisdom there than you might realise
'Love your enemy'? Jesus’ most radical words explained
Loving our enemies might seem impossible, but it’s central to what it means to be a Christian. Lois Tverberg expands on Christ’s most challenging command
God says ‘Behold’ 1,500 times in the Bible. Here’s what it means
“This is not a gentle request. It’s a command. When God uses it, he’s grabbing us by the collar, urging us to notice something incredible that we’re currently ignoring.”
Don't neglect the Old Testament. It is essential reading for Christians today
It is vital that Christians read the first 39 books of their Bibles, says Johnny King.
God Behaving Badly: Is the God of the Old Testament angry, sexist and racist?
By ignoring hard passages of scripture, we’re missing an opportunity to understand God better, says David T Lamb. Here’s some ways to tackle the bits of the Bible where God’s behaviour seems hard to understand
Technology can 'resurrect' your dead loved one. Would you talk to them?
Artificial Intelligence is already being used to mimic the dead. If you could chat online to a loved one who had died, would you?
Why did Paul tell women to submit to their husbands?
What exactly did Paul teach in the New Testament, and how should Christians understand and apply his teaching today? David Instone-Brewer sheds some light on this deeply divisive issue
Rachel Gardner: The ‘God Sex Lady’ on why the Church needs to get better at bedroom talk
Ahead of Valentine’s Day, Rachel Gardner says discussing sex may make us squirm, but not talking about it is far worse
What’s the biblical justification for welcoming gay people but denying them full membership?
Charmaine Yip delves into the scriptures to assess whether allowing LGBT people to attend church services, but preventing them from serving, is justifiable
Does the Bible really claim that Mary was a virgin?
The virgin birth is one of Christianity’s wildest – and most disputed claims. But was it just a case of misinterpretation?
Your ‘Bible in a year’ reading plan begins with Genesis. And so does the good news
The creation story was utterly unique among Ancient Near Eastern cultures. Instead of warring, angry gods, the Bible tells us that we were created in love, says Lois Tverberg
Finding the missing pieces of the Christmas puzzle
If you read the Christmas story in isolation, you will miss the beauty of the Bible’s bigger picture, says Jo Swinney
Why the Genesis flood was global - and why it matters
Following David Instone Brewer’s column which presented evidence for why the flood could have been local, Jonathan Sarfati shares an alternative perspective
Why Noah's flood may not have been global
Was it a global flood, or local flood? David Instone-Brewer explains why he (reluctantly) changed his mind
The kind of faith that Jesus loves
Christians have traditionally understood faith to mean trust in God. But there's another vital aspect to faith that we often overlook
Don’t throw away original sin. This controversial doctrine underpins our entire justice system
“If your objection to the notion of original sin is that you think humanity is basically good, then I admire your optimism but I doubt that you’ve ever stepped outside your own front door,” says Tim Farron MP
Dismantling Lord Vinson’s bizarre claim that Jesus’ death was assisted suicide
As peers debated assisted suicide in the House of Lords last week, one Lord’s contribution jumped out as particularly remarkable
Why Christians should ditch the concept of original sin
It might be commonly taught, but Augustine's concept of original sin doesn't have scriptural support, argues David Instone-Brewer
Why confessing your sins should be a joyful experience
Confessing our sins doesn’t sound like a barrel of laughs. But if we don’t give it the attention it deserves, we miss the joy that God wants for us, says Howard and Holly Satterthwaite
What will we look like in heaven?
Have you ever wondered, ‘What will I look like in heaven?’ The issue of the afterlife is a complicated one, but we can be sure of what the Bible tells us about certain aspects of heaven, says evangelist and author J.John
Why the Last Rites matter
Following reports that Sir David Amess was denied access to the Last Rites, Peter D Williams explains why the ritual is so important for Catholics
Do you become a Christian by believing a list of doctrines, or is there more to it?
The biblical writers instructed us to believe in the name of Jesus. But what does that mean? Lois Tverberg explains
How do you explain polygamy in the Bible?
Tom Wright gives his answer
Jesus was a troll
Now, what kind of a statement is that? You are probably already wary of this title, assuming the headline is clickbait to catch your eye and hook you in. That’s what clickbait does to you. It piques your interest. But once you’ve clicked and read, it turns out to be ...
A (non-judgmental) Christian response to Black Friday
A relative newcomer to the UK, Black Friday is now the biggest retail event of the year. But is it a flagrant celebration at the altar of mammon or a legitimate way for businesses to drum up trade? And how, asks Jonty Langley, should Christians respond?
Is it time for Christians to embrace Halloween?
The Church has traditionally shunned the festival, claiming it celebrates evil. Here’s an alternative perspective
Justice, mercy and grace: What these biblical words mean…and why it matters
Each of these words describe an important way that God relates to us. But the third one is the most special
Ghosts, haunted houses and bumps in the night: What the Bible really says about all things spooky
Most Christians have been taught that ghosts aren’t real. But is this what scripture teaches?
- Issues
- Topics A-Z
- Writers A-Z
- © 2024 Premier Christianity
Site powered by Webvision Cloud