History
The surprising stories behind your favourite Christmas carols
Deck the Hall offers a blend of scholarly research and accessible storytelling - revealing the surprising origins of 27 beloved Christmas carols
What Wolf Hall teaches us about the Reformation
Whether historically accurate or not, the BBC’s Wolf Hall gives us an insight into the events that surrounded the greatest schism in Church history. It is a timely reminder of the importance of Christian unity, says Tony Wilson
Jesus wasn’t a Palestinian
Some have objected to the casting of Israeli actors in Netflix’s new film Mary. It’s a demoralising example of misguided attempts to erase Christ’s Jewish identity, says Michael Coren
Could faith go viral again? Malcolm Gladwell’s new book has the answer
One of the world’s leading non-fiction writers doesn’t write much about his own Christian faith. And yet when you apply Malcolm Gladwell’s Revenge of the Tipping Point to the Church’s evangelism the implications are exciting, says Martin Saunders
Bonhoeffer: This provocative biopic is a warning to Christians
Bonhoeffer isn’t a nice story about someone standing up for their faith. It’s a warning to all Christians not to tie themselves to any one political identity, says our reviewer
Josephine Butler: The Christian feminist who took on the Victorian sex trade and won
She was a devout Christian, a passionate feminist and the most distinguished woman of the 19th Century. So why did Josephine Butler vanish from the pages of history?
The Bible is not safe
This global history of the Bible is full of fascinating stories, says our reviewer
Sam Sharpe: the slave-turned-preacher who helped to bring about abolition
Sam Sharpe was a Jamaican Baptist deacon who was hung for inciting a riot in 1831. He played a key role in ending the enslavement of Africans in the Caribbean. This Black History Month, Rev Dr Carlton Turner pays tribute to the faith of a man who sought to bring freedom to his people
The Brighton bomber nearly killed my father. But Daddy forgave him - and invited him to breakfast
Could you forgive the man who nearly killed your father? That’s the journey Lani Charlwood has been on. As this weekend marks 40 years since the Brighton bombing, she explains how forgiveness and reconciliation are possible, even in the most painful of circumstances
Kris Kristofferson (1936-2024): When it came to faith, his lyrics did the talking
The acclaimed Country singer who died on Saturday never seemed that comfortable with public speaking. But a glance at his most famous songs reveal a man of deep Christian faith, observes Derek Walker
6 lessons from Celtic Christianity
A lot of what you’ve been told about Celtic Christianity is plain wrong, argues Nick Page. He sets the record straight
How the British Isles were evangelised
With a surge in interest in spiritual formation, ancient paths and prayer rituals, Celtic Christianity is enjoying a moment. Richard Roberts shares the fascinating tale of the first missionaries to these shores
‘I spent my childhood in a Japanese prison. Then God sent me back as a missionary’
Basil Scott endured three “horrible” years inside a Japanese prisoner of war camp during the second world war. He explains how God later called him back to Asia, and why reconciliation is at the heart of the gospel
Reviewed: Diarmaid MacCulloch’s history of sex and Christianity
The acclaimed historian’s new book Lower than the angels: A history of sex and Christianity is not a light read. But it’s a useful contribution to ongoing debates, says our reviewer
We’re living in the age of addiction. Here’s what every Christian needs to know
Whether its hard drugs, soft porn or just internet shopping, millions of us are addicts. But turning off the tap that supplies us with addictive substances won’t solve the problem. Instead, we need to ask why so many are so thirsty in the first place, says Andy Partington
How Adrian Snell’s ‘The Passion’ became a Christian classic
As the best-selling Christian album of the 1980s is remixed and re-released, Tony Cummings shares the inside story of how Adrian Snell worked with the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra to deliver a “symphonic rock classic”
Christians can’t let history repeat itself when it comes to antisemitism
Complaints of antisemitic abuse among doctors have surged since October 7, with reports of some medics “celebrating Hamas attacks” according to The Times. Following Israel’s Holocaust Remembrance Day which took place earlier this week, Rev Tim Guttman says Christians must learn from history, and redouble their efforts to stand in solidarity with Jewish people
‘Evangelism is the reason for the Church’s existence’ says Pope Francis in new memoir
Pope Francis’ latest book gives readers an insight into how major historical events have shaped and influenced the pontiff, says Catherine Pepinster
5 things you (probably) didn’t know about Easter
Why do we eat chocolate eggs at Easter? What’s with school children making bonnets? And why is it called ‘Easter’ at all? Karen Murdarasi shares some little-known facts
What is Maundy Thursday all about?
The roots of the oddly-named Thursday before Easter come from Jesus’ command to love one another, as well as his foot-washing example, explains Karen Murdarasi
Elisabeth Elliot - Lucy S R Austen
If you are among the millions of people who’ve read Elisabeth Elliot’s bestselling book Through Gates of Splendor (Tyndale), then this biography’s subject will be familiar to you. If not, then keep reading, because evangelicalism on both sides of the Atlantic has been heavily influenced by Elliot.
When Jesus Met Hippies - Andrew Whitman
Interested in revival, the birth of Christian rock music or charismatic renewal? Don’t miss this book, says our reviewer
‘Blest is the man whose bowels move’
This year marks 350 years since the writer of ‘When I survey the wondrous cross’ was born. Dr Daniel Johnson takes a closer look at one of Isaac Watts’ lesser-known works
City of Echoes - Jessica Wärnberg
Jessica Wärnberg has a background in religious history and the history of art; she certainly brings an artistic touch to this magnificent book. Painting word pictures using shades, colour and contrast, Wärnberg demonstrates rigorous research and a deft touch in handling complex historical material. This is a majestic piece of ...
One Life: A heartwrenching true story of the man who rescued children from the Holocaust
The baptised Anglican, Nicholas Winton, rescued hundreds of Jewish children from the concentration camps. A new film pays tribute to his life
The blind seer and the gift of love - Roger Haydon Mitchell
How often do you think about the Roman Empire? According to TikTok, if you’re a man, it’s anything from twice a week to several times a day. Whether or not there’s anything in that claim, this book makes twice a week look like rookie numbers.
Bringing home a national treasure
A crowdfunding campaign has raised over half a million pounds to bring a tapestry commissioned by Henry VIII and dubbed “the birth certificate of the Church of England”, back to the UK.
‘My art is a miracle - it’s inspired by the Holy Spirit’
Maxmillian Ciccone has been widely lauded for his unique style. But having had no formal training, the Italian artist insists his talent and anointing comes from the Holy Spirit. A new renaissance is coming, he says
‘Wartime gave us a skill that we wanted to offer to God’
As Remembrance Day approaches, 102-year-old veteran, Jack Hemmings, celebrates the start of a Christian humanitarian air service formed in the aftermath of the second world war
I could see myself in ‘White Nanny, Black Child’. I thank God his love is not limited by race
Like the children in White Nanny, Black Child. Antony Aris-Osula was a Black Nigerian placed into white foster care. He reflects on his own spiritual journey and how he found his identity in Christ
What’s happening in Israel and Gaza, and how should Christians pray?
The murder and kidnappings of civilians by the terrorist group Hamas have been described as “Israel’s 9/11”. Journalist Gavin Drake is a frequent visitor to Israel and Gaza. He explains what has taken place, what might happen next, and how Christians should be praying
A bizarre online trend is revealing men think about the Roman Empire a lot. Why the interest?
‘How often do you think about the Roman Empire?’ It’s the question that’s dominating many corners of the internet, and is turning up some surprising results
What is Ascension Day and why do Christians celebrate it?
The marking of Jesus’ ascent into heaven is a profound celebration of his triumph over death, says Rev Dr K Augustine Tanner-Ihm. Here’s why we celebrate it, and what it means for Christians of all denominations
Writing about Julian of Norwich helped me through cancer
It is 650 years since Revelations of Divine Love, the first book to be written in English by a woman, was published. As Claire Gilbert reflects on losing her mother as a child, battling cancer and living through the Covid-19 pandemic, she finds Julian’s writings are as relevant today as they were six centuries ago
Charles will be hoping the coronation is free from these amusing mishaps
From sleeping monarchs to rancid anointing oil, past coronations have not always been straightforward. Ian Bradley looks back at a litany of errors
I, Julian - Claire Gilbert
Julian of Norwich’s 15th-century classic, Revelations of Divine Love, is widely regarded as the earliest manuscript written in English by a woman. But beyond that text, little is known about the remarkable woman who lived as an anchoress (or hermit) bricked into a small cell on the side of St ...
Charles Moore: ‘I’ve been a practising Christian all my life’
The journalist and former newspaper editor gives his view on the upcoming coronation of King Charles III
25 years on from the Good Friday Agreement, the Church still has a vital role to play
David Smyth shares his experience of growing up in Northern Ireland during the Troubles, and considers the role of the Church in sustaining peace
John Lewis’ member-owned business model was the gospel in action
John Spedan Lewis was one of many philanthropist business owners birthed by the Victorian era. Whether his desire to create a wealth structure that benefitted all came from a Christian faith or not, there is much to commend it, says George Pitcher. And much to miss if it is diluted
Jesus Revolution: the 60s hippies who changed the world
Jesus Revolution has taken $40m at the box office, making it highest-grossing film released by the studio Lionsgate since 2019. Andrew Whitman traces the history that inspired the movie
Julian of Norwich: Everything you need to know about the medieval mystic
In writing down her remarkable visions of God, Julian of Norwich became the first English female writer. As this year marks 650 years since Julian's classic work The Revelations of Divine Love was written, Karen Murdarasi looks at her life and legacy
Julian of Norwich and Margery Kempe had mystical experiences of Christ. This novel explores their lives
Victoria MacKenzie’s debut novel imagines a meeting between two famous 15th century mystics, Julian of Norwich and Margery Kempe. Jennie Pollock says the book brings colour and life to the women’s theology
2022’s biggest Christian news stories
As the year draws to a close, Tim Wyatt looks at the most significant stories for the UK Church and beyond
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
The surprise of Christmas
Into the darkness of Galilee a great light came. RT Kendall wonders if we could be on the cusp of our own revival this Christmas
The BBC pioneered religious broadcasting. Where will it go next?
As the BBC turns 100, Paul Kerensa reviews the religious broadcasting record of the world’s most prestigious media organisation
Don’t be put off by the low budget. This film about radical Bible translator John Wycliffe deserves to be watched
A new biopic of John Wycliffe promises to bring the viewer “face to face with a man of true genius”. As Morningstar embarks on a premiere screening tour across the UK, Eddie Arthur says we all owe a lot to this radical translator
Are the Puritans worth reading?
Who were the Puritans? Should Christians read them? And if so, why? Tim Chester explores
From Windrush to Brexit, the British Church has struggled to address racism
As Black History Month gets underway, Richard Reddie takes a look at the events that have shaped the Church’s racial justice journey. We may not be where we want to be, he says, but there’s still time to finish the race well
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 Queen’s Platinum Jubilee points to a life of service – and to Christ, the Servant king
As we prepare to celebrate 70 years since Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II ascended to the throne, Rev George Pitcher points out the parallels between the Defender of the Faith and the King of Kings
Elizabeth Finch: Julian Barnes’ novel fails to grasp the rudiments of Christianity
The Booker Prize winning author Julian Barnes has supposedly written a “loving tribute to philosophy”. But our reviewer says his latest novel misunderstands what Christianity is all about
Why the image of the crucifixion should still shock Christians
The early Christians found the crucifixion so shocking that they didn’t make an image of it for 200 years. Historian Martyn Whittock charts how the Church has depicted the cross since then
Is St Valentine’s Day a Christian festival?
Karen Murdarasi isn’t sure there’s much historical accuracy in the myths and legends that surround the origins of St Valentine’s Day. But that doesn’t mean Christians shouldn’t take the opportunity it presents to love those around them well.
We should give thanks for the angel armies that helped win the first world war
German prisoners said they saw large forces behind the British lines
Is Christmas a pagan festival?
Is Jesus’ birth really the reason for the season? Or did early Christians simply steal a much older, pagan festival and parachute Christ in? Karen Murdarasi explains
Did God give Britain victory in past wars because we prayed? This book says so, but its sources are flawed
Britain fought amazingly well in the great wars of the twentieth century. In Beyond the Odds, John Scriven provide engaging and detailed accounts of incredible bravery, luck, and courage by British soldiers and generals during the First and Second World Wars and the Falklands War.
Sojourner Truth: The slave who became a gospel preacher
This inspiring preacher confounded the expectations of her day for both women and black people
Thomas Johnson: How a slave became the first Black student at Spurgeon’s College
Thomas Johnson was a slave who became one of the first Black men to study at Spurgeon’s College. This is his amazing story
3 black Christian scientists who changed the world
Their Christian faith motivated them to help make the world a better place
Songs of Praise: Celebrating 60 years of God speaking through television
Songs of Praise's longest serving living conductor pays tribute to the programme
I’m a Christian and I survived 9/11. Here’s what I want the next generation to know
NYC tour guide Christina Ray Stanton survived 9/11. Here’s what she wants Christians everywhere to know about evil and suffering
Bullies and Saints - John Dickson
John Dickson begins his book with an account of 15 July 1099, when Christian Crusaders mercilessly slaughtered thousands of Muslims sheltering in a sacred precinct in Jerusalem.
The Christian entrepreneur behind the UK’s favourite jam
It’s 150 years since William Hartley established a brand of jam that is still the market leader in the UK today
The Christian faith of CS Lewis
CS Lewis’ books communicate some of the most profound truths of the Christian faith in a way that all can understand, and remain classics to this day, says Alister McGrath
How one million Bibles were smuggled into China in just two hours
It was the D-Day of Bible smuggling: a million Bibles secretly unloaded onto Chinese shores in one night. Forty years on, some of the key players recount the remarkable and often miraculous operation
5 martyrs every Christian should know
Catherine Pepinster shares the inspirational stories of Christians who were willing to face death because of their faith
John Stott: What every Christian should know about this unlikely radical
As we approach the centenary of John Stott’s birth, it’s an ideal time to reflect on the global impact of this Anglican priest and theologian
Why it's time to correct our teaching of church history
The Black Lives Matter movement is calling on societies to repent of the way black, asian and minority ethnic (BAME) people have been whitewashed out of national histories. But Dr Peter Harris says this challenge also applies to common re-tellings of church history
The Christian faith of Florence Nightingale: The founder of modern nursing
The ‘Lady with the Lamp’ was a reluctant celebrity. On the 200 year anniversary of Florence Nightingale's birth, Karen Murdarasi explains how her love for God inspired her world-famous work
China: Inside the biggest revival in history
Bestselling author Paul Hattaway gives us a rare glimpse inside China’s underground Church
Martin Luther loved Christmas - he might even have popularised having a Christmas tree
The co-writer of 'In Christ Alone', Keith Getty reveals some little-known facts about the great Reformer
7 Christian heroes we should celebrate in Black History Month
Marcia Dixon profiles some kingdom pioneers during the UK's Black History Month
NT Wright: Why Jesus’ crucifixion is a fact of history
Leading New Testament scholar Tom Wright explains why Christians can be confident the gospel accounts are true
Tom Holland: Why atheists can’t deny the moral force of Christian history
Award winning historian Tom Holland is one of a growing number of historians who are reminding a secular culture of their Christian heritage
Meet The Real Life Witches
After spending time with some witches, Rev Peter Laws believes the Church has been guilty of misunderstanding what they believe and practise
The Ten-Minute Guide to… John Calvin
John Calvin’s city of Geneva formed the blueprint for many Protestant churches and his theology is still central to reformed Christianity today
The ten-minute guide to… Martin Luther
Martin Luther’s understanding of salvation ‘by faith alone’ revolutionised the Church and redirected its future
The ten-minute guide to Athanasius
Against the World: When his theological contemporaries attempted to do away with Trinitarianism, Athanasius held firm to the truth he was convinced of
50 years and counting...
How do you summarise half a century of journalism, spanning 600 editions of a publication that has had at least five different names? As Premier Christianity turns 50 this month, Justin Brierley and Sam Hailes have a go below and here.
The Ten-Minute Guide to: St Augustine
To know where we are going we need to know where we’ve been. In the first of a new series, we find out how history’s best known church leaders still influence our theology today.
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