The UK birth rate has fallen to its lowest level in half a century. While some blame economics, Lois McLatchie Miller argues that IVF is encouraging us to put our fertility on hold while pursuing our dreams. But for Christians, the technology comes with difficult ethical implications
The latest film from the Star Wars universe contains a rare portrayal of a good dad, says Giles Gough. It reminds Christians of the beauty of God’s unconditional love for his children but, despite the poignant storyline, this TV series adapted for the big screen doesn’t quite hit the emotional depths that it should
As a loved one battled depression, Derek Hughes found himself wrestling with prayers and Christian explanations that felt incomplete. Then, unexpectedly, an atheist helped him see the fractures beneath despair, how scripture accounts for them, and how the Church can help bring healing through community
A viral clash between Christian apologist GodLogic and Muslim debater Mohammed Hijab descended into mockery and legal action. But the real problem is how the Church responded, says Alistair Lettin. Why are Christians more concerned with policing their own than engaging those who oppose the gospel?
Arsenal’s growing contingent of Christian players have been praying and reading the Bible together throughout the season. Now, following their Premiership title win, they’ve taken to social media to give God glory. Here’s what we know about the faith of Timber, Saka, Gabriel, Eze, Madueke and more
The Pope’s letter Magnifica Humanitas raises vital questions about what it means to be human in an age of AI. Warning against the abuse of power, the encyclical asks: Is the advancement of artificial intelligence taking place at the cost of human dignity? Tony Wilson takes a closer look at the document
As Islamist groups continue to target thousands of Christians in eastern Congo, violence, displacement and disease are combining to create a devastating humanitarian crisis. Open Doors’ Ben Cohen speaks to some living through the chaos
Jake Isaac’s new song leads us in joyful praise of a God who never fails, even in the messiness of life, says our music editor
Christians speak confidently about eternal hope and the defeat of death. But what if, despite believing in heaven, you still fear dying? Jeff Lucas reflects on grief, awkward Christian clichés and why trusting Jesus doesn’t always remove our dread of the final journey
After a life shaped by abuse, church hurt and racism, a supernatural encounter showed Colin Mason that God was not the cause of his pain, but the One who would redeem it
If you want to be more like Jesus, you can’t do it alone, says Joe Warton. Discipleship happens when we help one another, and allow others to help us in return
Chine McDonald ponders whether Christians are really reacting to dangerous ideas — or merely to the discomfort of sharing church with people from different classes and cultural backgrounds
Rev Fernando Carrillo has a vision to see families restored, chains of addiction broken and young men raised to be godly role models and good fathers. It’s everything that his own life was missing
Hazel Southam explores how outdoor spaces are being transformed by congregations across the UK in order to build bridges that reach out to the local community and point upwards towards God
From a ranch in Texas to a flat in the shadow of Mount Everest, Daniel and Jeanie Ough have house sat in 52 different locations across five continents over the last 14 years. Not owning or renting a home has enabled them to serve God on the mission field long into retirement, they say
Pioneers of the seeker-sensitive movement have long argued churches must make their services more accessible to win the next generation. But as growing numbers of young men are drawn towards expressions of faith built around discipline, reverence and sacrifice, AJ Gomez asks: Is it time to switch off the smoke machines?
He’s one of the greatest apologists of our time – best known for taking on the New Atheist movement with grace and panache. Now, John Lennox has written his astonishing life story and it is packed full of never-before-told stories
The Church is made up of Christians from a myriad of different professions, and yet their ordinary tales of God at work rarely get told. In this series, we bring you stories of faith from the frontline
Beneath Jeremy Clarkson’s profanity and tractor mishaps lies a surprisingly moving story, says Martin Saunders. He explains why he’s among the millions who have fallen in love with life on Diddly Squat Farm
The Christian climate activist known as @LessWasteLaura has garnered more than 100,000 followers on social media. Caring for creation is not a side project for the Church, but a central gospel issue, she says
Raised in a church that believed women could not lead, author Preston Sprinkle decided to take a deep dive into scripture. There, he discovered strong, faithful women of radical courage, and concluded that the arguments for complementarianism just didn’t hold true
Tom Wright gives his resoponse to a reader’s question
Across the country, churches of all shapes and sizes are providing vital community services, says Baroness Twycross. But for many, the financial burden of maintaining their buildings is creating a crisis. She hopes that the government’s new Places of Worship Renewal Fund will help ease the pressure
In a culture shaped by distraction and achievement, Arthur Brooks explores what it means to live with purpose. His approach is thoughtful and practical, though not explicitly Christian, says our reviewer
Readable, provocative and theologically astute, End Times Retold challenges Christians to rethink prophecy, Israel and the return of Christ through the wider story of God’s kingdom purposes, says our reviewer
The latest season of American Idol had no less than five Christian contestants - and the three finalists all sang worship songs on national TV. Sophie Sanders asks whether the same could ever happen on British TV, and what Christians can learn from the boldness of their US cousins
As rival protests expose deep tensions in London, East London pastor Tony Uddin warns that fear, identity politics and division are being exploited by both left and right. The Church must model a radically different way, he says
A BBC investigation has uncovered allegations that two women were raped during filming of the reality TV show, Married at First Sight: UK. Giles Gough asks whether the format is at fault, or if wider societal attitudes towards sex and relationships need to change
Gemma Hunt’s formative years in Sunday school gave her a spiritual foundation she will always be grateful for. But now she’s learning to ask questions again, and is unafraid to admit she does not always have all the answers
The Alpha course pioneer and former leader of HTB has been accused of promoting communism and unbiblical ideas after he called Spirit-filled Christians to fight inequality. Tommy Sharpe says he’s shocked at the comments. Confronting injustice is a deeply biblical mandate, he says
Will Wes Streeting and Andy Burnham challenge Keir Starmer for the Labour leadership? Our ‘stick or twist’ approach to political leadership is making people anxious, says Tim Farron MP, but God institutes government to provide order and justice
From being passed over for promotion to an increase in physical violence, racism in Britain’s workplaces is getting worse, according to a report from the TUC. So what can Christians do? Christine Jeske suggests five practical steps you can take to be salt and light at work
Burnt out from years of church leadership, Derek Hughes approached rest the same way he approached everything else: as a problem to solve. But when his small group began practising Sabbath together, he realised the answer to exhaustion was not technique, but community
After a life-threatening illness, the gossip columnist once dubbed “the most hated man in Hollywood” says he’s returned to his Catholic faith. Sophie Sanders is pleased Perez Hilton’s content is being replaced with more wholesome fare, and is praying he continues to see the miraculous in his life
US televangelist and pastor Robert Jeffress has claimed that Donald Trump understands the Bible better than the Pope. Jonty Langley respectfully disagrees. Here’s his tongue-in-cheek analysis of what’s going on
At a recent evangelistic event in Madrid, Dani Alves told 40,000 people how encountering Christ in prison transformed his life. Tim Bechervaise explores the faith journey of one of football’s most decorated players
With so many stories of powerful people abusing those around them, it is easy to become discouraged, says Patrick Regan. But as Christians, we should take the opportunity to examine ourselves, and ask how we can use whatever power and influence we have to heal, not hurt
The fallout from last week’s local elections demonstrates how divided and precarious politics have become, says Tim Farron MP. That’s why Christians need to get involved - whether that’s standing for election or praying for and encouraging their local representatives, whatever colour rosette they wear
Natalie Brand’s From Crimson to White offers a rich and compelling guide to finding joy in Jesus, says our reviewer
The manosphere has become a refuge for emotionally displaced boys, says Jody Goldsworthy. The Church needs to recover Jesus’ model of forming young men through deep relationship into love, not fear
Jonathan Fletcher’s dementia means that although a jury has found he committed abuse, he will not be punished. But the Church’s inadequate safeguarding is also to blame for denying his victims proper justice, argues Gavin Drake
Poor lawmaking should always be challenged, says Evangelical Alliance’s Peter Lynas. But Christians must not conflate every legal case involving public evangelism with religious persecution. It simply isn’t accurate
Having been in close proximity to the recent anti-semitic attacks in Finchley and Golders Green, Mavis Crispin and her North London church community took to the Bible to decide how to best respond. Here, she provides practical steps you can take to advocate against antisemitism
When Samuel Leeds announced plans to buy vacant church buildings and rent them to congregations for free, many Christians applauded the vision. But his growing prominence has also led to increased scrutiny, with some accusing him of profiting from vulnerable people and running a fraudulent “get rich quick” scheme – allegations he strongly contests. Is he a generous visionary or a dangerous guru? AJ Gomez meets him
A retired pastor has been convicted after reading John 3:16 on the fringes of a buffer zone near a hospital in Northern Ireland. If that’s enough to trigger criminal prosecution, we are entering dangerous territory, says Lois McLatchie Miller
Surrounded by stories of church growth and renewal, Derek Hughes found himself genuinely happy for other churches while quietly wrestling with comparison, envy and the unsettling question: am I doing something wrong? Then an intimate moment in his small group revealed a better measure of success
Nine years after her conversion to Christianity, M.I.A. has finally released a faith-filled album. Inspired by the book of Revelation, MI7 mixes worship, apocalyptic imagery and experimental beats, says our reviewer
A wave of antisemitic violence in Britain, including the stabbing of two Jewish men in Golders Green and arson attacks on Jewish ambulances and synagogues, has led Kemi Badenoch to describe the situation as a “national emergency”. Here, David Hoffbrand explains how Christians can take immediate action to stand with Jewish people living in fear
A quarter of a century after March for Jesus last filled central London with worshippers, the movement is being revived for a new generation. Organiser Henry George tells us the Jesus March is not political protest, but a hopeful public expression of faith at a moment when many believe spiritual openness is returning to Britain
The Church is right to hold leaders accountable for moral failure. But the rush to erase Sam Allberry’s past writings reflects a view of sin and grace that sits uneasily with scripture itself, argues Rev Peter Crumpler. The Bible is full of flawed people through whom God still chose to work, he says
This reflective new worship song is calling congregations back to the heart of the gospel, says our music editor
The resignation of church leader Sam Allberry over “an inappropriate relationship with another man” has sent shockwaves through the Christian community. Known for his teaching on same-sex and celibacy, the revelation has caused some to criticise his theology and remove his content. Rev Peter Ould says that is a mistake
From multi-day worship sets to small-scale gatherings on farms, the Premier team share some of their favourite places to gather in God’s presence
A new history claims the world’s most repressive state adapted the forms of Christianity to build its ruling myth. It’s a chilling idea — though the evidence is not conclusive, says our reviewer
Does church feel a little…mundane? It doesn’t have to be this way. Nick and Ali Herbert share encouraging stories of miracles and prophecy, along with helpful tips on how to ensure your church is full of the Holy Spirit’s power this Pentecost
AJ Gomez investigates why today’s parents are sparing the rod in favour of gentler forms of correction
It’s right to give thanks for the miraculous moments. But behind the scenes of every Christian event is an army of people toiling practically and in prayer to make it happen. Limitless Festival’s Tim Alford pulls back the curtain
Churches often encourage adoption, but rarely understand what it really involves. Reflecting on a recent Sunday morning, Lisa Mainwaring highlights how some well-meaning language can be harmful to adoptive families and what they truly need from their church communities
After a four year legal battle, the Liberal Democrat party have admitted religious discrimination against David Campanale, who was deselected as parliamentary candidate for Sutton and Cheam in 2023. The Christian journalist says he was targeted because of his beliefs on abortion and assisted suicide. Tim Wyatt explores the issues
When Darin Stevens’ friend told him she “prayed to the universe”, he was unsure how to respond. Many young people say they are as spiritual, but misunderstanding what they mean risks missing vital opportunities for gospel conversations. Here, he shares how to point young seekers toward Jesus
Suicide has been legal in the UK since 1961 - but has the tide of public opinion turned on co-opting the health service into colluding with it? Following the fall of the Terminally Ill Adults Bill, Rev George Pitcher is praying that society learns to properly value the life-saving and life-enhancing role of our NHS
The physical places visited by the celebrities on BBC’s The Pilgrimage affected them profoundly. A trip to the birthplace of Mozart and the death camp of Dachau had a similar effect on Derek Hughes. We shouldn’t be surprised, he says. The Christian story turns on the claim that God did not send information but came to meet with us in real time and space
When Sarah Mullally reinforced the Pope’s message of peace, she risked the ire of Trump. But both leaders were right to call for an end to conflict, says Tony Wilson. It’s their job to speak as Jesus taught, even when it seems counter-cultural to our political leaders
Britain and America have enjoyed a close alliance for centuries, with King Charles’ visit to the White House the latest expression of the much-discussed “special relationship”. But as attitudes to free speech diverge, particularly affecting Christians, Lois McLatchie Miller says this relationship may come under strain
When a family crisis left Hazel Southam with no choice but to find a care home for her father, she was troubled by the poor standards. Here, she explores a Christian alternative and notes the difference faith can make in caring for society’s most vulnerable
A culture obsessed with measuring success has infiltrated the Church, warns Dr Chloe Lynch. She’s calling leaders to embrace love, vulnerability and shared power over efficiency and what can be counted
Anger is seeping into everyday life, observes Jeff Lucas. As tempers shorten and tensions rise, even in the most ordinary moments, how do we recognise what’s happening within us – and learn to respond differently?
Jimmy Kimmel’s recent comments on Michelle Obama’s podcast are symptomatic of a cultural holy war in which each side blames the other for society’s problems, says pastor Austin Fischer
Paul Algeo began taking drugs as a teenager and for decades he made a career out of selling them. But his addiction ended in paranoia and a four-hour stand-off with the police, before God reached in and transformed his life
In the avalanche of books and museum exhibitions that are now pouring forth about the late rock music icon David Bowie a fascinating possibility is emerging. Could the Picasso of Pop have found God? Tony Cummings explores
The Green party MP thinks Westminster has a problematic drinking culture. With more young people than ever abstaining from alcohol and older generations drinking more, Michael Tang says it’s not just politics. The unexpected generation gap in our churches might be affecting discipleship and turning Gen Z away from God
In a world that tells young women they’re not enough, Philippa Hanna is using her voice to say the opposite – and thousands are listening. Coming from a long line of musicians, the singer reflects on finding her identity in Christ after years of industry pressure, why she wants people to know Christians on stage are still works in progress, and how an unexpected message from a long-lost brother added a remarkable new chapter to her story
When we let go of the expectations we place on ourselves to be all things to all people, we find God is waiting for us to show up just as we are, says Gemma Hunt
Following a near-fatal accident, Samantha Jackel had an out-of-body experience. She explains how the audible voice of God provided reassurance in her darkest moments
The Church is made up of Christians from a myriad of different professions, and yet their ordinary tales of God at work rarely get told. In this series, we bring you stories of faith from the frontline
They’ve given us connection, convenience and endless information – but at a cost. Bezos, Musk and Zuckerberg are more powerful than most world leaders, says Martin Saunders, and Christians are wrong to view them as neutral figures. These tech titans have a special plan for your life…and it isn’t good
Society’s perception of Christianity has undergone a dramatic change for good over the past 20 years. But there are risks that accompany the vibe shift, says Chine McDonald
From scripture in orbit to Easter messages from space, the Christian faith was positively shared during NASA’s historic mission
Bible Society’s groundbreaking Quiet Revival report has been withdrawn after YouGov admitted data collection errors. Emma Fowle explores what happened and the implications for those who were encouraged by its findings
When Derek Hughes and his small group embarked on a fast that failed to bring the spiritual breakthrough he expected, the result was disappointment. But a fresh reading of a familiar scripture challenged him to consider whether the worship we deem a failure, may in fact be worship in its purest form
The former Archbishop of Canterbury is no fan of managerialism, but it can be necessary and effective to help church leaders focus on evangelism and growth, says Rev Dr Ian Paul. When it doesn’t, it must be ruthlessly cut out - starting right at the top
Alec Ryrie’s provocative new book argues that Western society has moved from the ‘Age of Jesus’ to the ‘Age of Hitler’. But does his diagnosis of our cultural crisis and his proposed solutions stand up to scrutiny? Dr Roland Clark gives his view
Catholic journalist Ross Douthat and atheist historian Bart Ehrman went head-to-head on a recent New York Times podcast over whether the resurrection is credible. Andy Kind recommends the conversation as respectful and intelligent, but says it ultimately leaves the biggest questions unresolved
As headlines often focus on the darker side of immigration, Helen Nathan of Pilgrims’ Friend Society points out how workers who have left their homes and families to care for older people in the UK are making a vital contribution. We should do all we can to make them welcome, she says
Could those you love ever do something so terrible that it would change how you feel about them forever? That’s the question explored in Zendaya’s latest film, says Rebecca Chapman
The modern State of Israel divides Christians like few other issues. Some see divine providence, others mere geopolitics. But rather than choosing sides, what if Israel’s return is calling us to rediscover the Bible’s original storyline—one that’s always been about God’s Kingdom filling the earth, not just souls escaping it? Paul Parkhouse shares his perspective
Rev Dr Cris Rogers’ theological analysis of Stranger Things offers inspired parallels between the show and scripture, but the book’s hasty publication—completed within a week of the finale— seems to have resulted in some unfortunate errors, says our reviewer
This music may contain hope is a sonic rollercoaster ride through the ups and downs of RAYE’s life and faith journey, says George Luke. It is searingly honest music shot through with moments of glorious worship - and well worth a listen
On St George’s Day, Karen Miller argues his flag has been repurposed from its honourable origins. Can we reclaim it for good?
The Bible teaches us that right judgement is a vital part of godly leadership. Yet the chaotic appointment of Peter Mandelson as US ambassador reveals more than civil service protocol failures – it exposes a prime minister dangerously lacking in discernment, says Rev George Pitcher
The controversial US Secretary of Defence has been criticised for using the Bible to justify violent attacks on Iran. But what do we know about Pete Hegseth and his Christian faith?
The revelation that Peter Mandelson was flagged as a security risk yet still appointed US ambassador has plunged the government into controversy. In a time of fragile political trust, the integrity of our leaders matters more than ever, says Tim Farron MP
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In a recent column for The Spectator, author Bijan Omrani recalled his days at the University of Oxford in the 1990s when college chapels were deserted. Today it’s a different story, says Rev Dr Robert Wainwright. Students are seeking something substantial - and finding it in early morning, traditional church
Ryan Gosling’s latest film, Project Hail Mary is a poignant, funny movie that reminds Christians of the fragile nature of human life, the value of friendship and the courage of sacrificial love, says Faith Lowe
A dubious claim about an archbishop’s complaint over The Archers reveals the BBC’s troubled relationship with religious programming. The corporation consistently misunderstands people of faith, says Rev George Pitcher
After 1,000 days of conflict and 13 million people displaced, Sudan is facing the world’s largest humanitarian crisis while much of the world looks away. Tearfund’s Esther Trewinnard says for Christians the question is not just what is happening, but what we are willing to do about it
With US political and religious leaders suggesting God is on their side in the war against Iran, Dr David Instone-Brewer takes a closer look at the violent references in the Psalms and comes to a surprising conclusion. God is not automatically on the side of those who worship Him
The Sacred Thread is a thrilling seven part documentary which aims to help Christians better understand the original context of the Bible’s most famous prayer. Chris Sinkinson says the combination of beautiful locations and insightful interviewees makes this a first class series of great value to Christians and churches
The US Defence Secretary’s violent Pentagon prayers, backed by prominent Christian leaders invoking holy war, are not only a distortion of the gospel—they’re pushing Muslims away from Christianity’s message of peace, warns Matt Roper