October
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
Dr Mike Townsend (1947-2023): Pioneer of blind Christian ministry
Dr Mike Townsend was never limited by his sight loss, and instead lived his life to the full, completely committed to the proclamation of the gospel and the inclusion of disabled people in the body of Christ, says Gordon Temple
Disrupting a church service in the name of climate change isn’t Christian
Christian Climate Action has interrupted a service at Chichester Cathedral in order to protest about climate change. But whatever your views on the environment, the worship of God is sacrosanct. It should not be disrupted - especially by those who claim to follow Jesus - argues Gavin Ashenden
7 things to put in the sin bin
Football is following in Rugby’s footsteps and introducing sin bins in an attempt to deal with bad behaviour on the pitch. It got Tim Bechervaise thinking: what else in society could do with a time out?
‘My HIV diagnosis brought me closer to God’
When Tanya* was first diagnosed with HIV, she was too ashamed to tell her family and terrified about what might happen. On World Aids Day, she shares her story of how God gave her the strength to carry on
“God is with us” – an Advent Sunday devotional series from Compassion UK
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Half of people no longer want a funeral. It’s a worrying trend
Less than half of people want a funeral when they die according to the latest research. But in moving away from looking death in the face, we may be hindering our long-term healing, says Yvonne Tulloch
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 elf on the shelf is the antithesis of Christmas. Let's get rid of him
Christmas is about the undeserved gift of Jesus, says Mark Deacon, not giving gifts to an elf so he doesn’t ’report’ you to Santa. As secular ideas capture hearts at advent, it’s time for churches to fight back
Charlie’s Bar: How this viral advert encourages and challenges the Church
People are dying of loneliness. While pubs might provide a temporary respite, the Church has so much more to offer, says Alex Drew. Let’s introduce people to the eternal friendship of Jesus this Christmas
Why your favourite stories are full of Christian meaning
From Harry Potter to The Lord of the Rings, our most loved stories concern the battle of good over evil. That’s because we’re wired that way, says Andy Bannister. It’s only in a universe where good wins out in the end that stories make sense
Downtime: Our Christmassy recommendations
What the Premier Christianity team are enjoying this month
Amazing grace - James Walvin
There are many books on the story of the perennially favourite hymn, ‘Amazing grace’, but few are as wide-ranging as this one.
I am asking in the name of God - Pope Francis
This is Pope Francis’ manifesto for divine transformation in a world that he suggests is in crisis. The tone is like that of a devoted but concerned father, passing on some of the wisdom and insights he has gathered over a long life, well lived.
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.
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.
Hopeward - Dai Hankey
Cardiff-based pastor Dai Hankey has written a lovely little book for Christians who aren’t giving up, but are weary. The author, a former skateboarder and DJ, points us to a longer, slower, deeper faith; or as he puts it in relation to Jesus: “his invitation to the weary is to ...
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
Why Christmas is the story of a ceasefire
A peace agreement between God and humanity has been reached, writes Rend Collective’s Chris Llewellyn
Can we trust the birth narratives of Jesus found in the Gospels?
Q: Many people assume that the birth narratives of Jesus found in the Gospels are fictional. Do you think they’re trustworthy?
When preachers get it wrong
Jeff Lucas on having to apologise for a thoughtless comment made while in the pulpit
‘A near-death experience led me to Jesus’
After overdosing on cocaine, Michelle Steele’s heart stopped, and she experienced a terrifying vision of hell
God, grief and a month on the farm
When Miranda Adderley was told that her unborn grandson was unlikely to survive outside the womb, she organised a countryside retreat for her family. Together, they processed their grief in the beauty of nature, and slowly learned to see the goodness of God again
‘Falling pregnant at university made me feel like a failure. But God had a plan’
Being a single parent in the Church can be a challenging experience, says Emily Beater, as she recalls her own journey towards Jesus
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
Russell Watson: ‘My friend and I text Bible verses to each other every Sunday’
The world-renowned tenor explains how a near-death experience led him to faith, and why he’ll never tire of bringing joy to others through his music
Journey to Bethlehem: When the Bible meets High School Musical
This Christmas musical fails to hit the right chords, says Tim Bechervaise
The lawyer: 'God has put me here for a purpose'
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 on the frontline
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
‘It was the most afraid I’ve ever been’
When two growths were found on his brain, Andy Percey’s future became uncertain. But God brought the Baptist minister through, and the giant of fear was conquered
How evangelicals are making their unpopular beliefs more palatable
During interviews with church leaders in England and Canada, Dr Sam Reimer uncovered a number of “softening strategies”, used by Christians to try and bridge the gap between traditional church teaching, and an increasingly liberal culture
Who will fight for today’s Holy Innocents?
We’re entering the season where the Church remembers the innocent babies murdered by Herod. But where is the outrage for the hundreds of thousands of unborn children killed by abortion every year in the UK today, asks Tim Lewis
Israel and Gaza: A prayer for peace
As the Israel-Hamas conflict continues to rage, Jerusalem-based church leader Rev Aaron Eime invites you to join him in prayer for the protection of innocent Israelis and Palestinians, and that the Prince of Peace would have his way in the Holy Land this Christmas
Christmas as you’ve never seen it before
A Church of England priest introduces her artistic re-imaginings of the first Christmas
Sheila Walsh: The best Christmas I ever had
It’s easy to miss the thing right in front of you, says Sheila Walsh, even when it’s what you need most in the world
A Life-Saving Journey
Mission Aviation Fellowship bring you the inspiring tale of two-year-old Ojiya, whose remarkable journey to beat the odds encapsulates this intersection perfectly.
Voices from the Middle East and North Africa
Silent Celebration
David Pytches (1931-2023): Bishop, charismatic pioneer and father in the faith
Rt Rev David Pytches, founder of New Wine and former vicar of St Andrews, Chorleywood, has died aged 92. Greg Downes pays tribute to a pioneer of charismatic renewal within the Anglican church
Why the Church in Bethlehem has cancelled Christmas
The authorities in Bethlehem have decided not to display their annual nativity scene or Christmas tree in solidarity with Palestinians in Gaza. But is this a missed opportunity to build a bridge between the two sides?
10 hilarious responses to Bristol Airport’s awful ‘multi faith area’
When Bristol Airport unveiled its new multi-faith prayer space yesterday, it was probably hoping for a more positive response from the religious community. But the vast majority of comments from Christians have been negative - ranging from the incredulous to the downright mocking. Here’s a few of our favourites
Never again is now
David Hoffbrand explains why he attended a recent Pro-Israel rally outside Downing Street, and why he believes all Christians should be standing against antisemitism
Be Bold, Be Strong
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3 ways to ensure your carol service is not a waste of time
Christmas is the time of year when people who never usually attend a Sunday service suddenly stream through the doors. But how can we ensure that at least some of them come back again? Derek Hughes offers his top tips
Madman or martyr? The Mission is an unsettling documentary about a murdered evangelist
In 2018, the death of missionary John Allen Chau shocked the world. Now, a new documentary looks at what inspired a young American to reach a remote people group with the gospel. It asks some important questions, says Tim Bechervaise, but have they really understood the Christian call to share the good news?
Jesus is seriously good for you - the research proves it
Having a faith makes you happier. That's according to a new survey which says people of faith are on average 20 per cent more satisfied with life than atheists. Phil Knox looks at the implications
What the Bible says about the Israel-Gaza war
In a recent speech, Benjamin Netanyahu invoked the words of Ecclesiastes, "There's a time for war" as justification for Israel's military operation in Gaza. But is this an appropriate use of scripture? It's complicated, says Rev Mark Woods
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
David Cameron’s return to politics shows there’s a season for everything
The return to cabinet of a canny political operator is a reminder to Christians to seek God’s will and discern his timing, says Sharmila Meadows. Let’s sharpen our spiritual radar
CofE leaders are ‘walking together’ into sin. It’s a bad joke
The true doctrine of marriage cannot be changed, regardless of how the Church of England’s general synod votes, says Andrea Williams. But things are about to get harder for churches and ministers with traditional views on marriage and sexuality
From Islam to Atheism to Christianity - the unlikely conversion of Ayaan Hirsi Ali
Ayaan Hirsi Ali's astonishing announcement that she has become a Christian, is almost as surprising as if Richard Dawkins had entered the priesthood, says Andy Bannister
Why I won’t quit the CofE despite the chaos over same-sex relationships
Services of blessings for gay couples were narrowly approved for a trial period at the Church of England’s General Synod yesterday, amid heated debate. Here, Ed Shaw, a celibate, gay minister in the CofE, reflects on the decision and why he’ll continue to campaign for orthodox teaching on sex and marriage to be retained
Sex toys in advent calendars? It’s the antithesis of Christmas
The advent calendar was designed as a spiritual discipline to help Christians prepare for the coming of Christ. But designer versions, or ones filled with expensive gifts, alcohol and even sex toys, are instead turning them into a platform for vice and excess, says Dr Gavin Ashenden
The Rwanda plan has failed. But churches can help steer a better course
The Supreme Court has declared the government’s Rwanda plan illegal. As Rishi Sunak explores emergency legislation to get round the ruling, Rev Steve Tinning says safe routes and community support – including from the Christian community – offer a more compassionate response
Don’t be like Braverman. Choose the path of peace
Suella Braverman was dismissed from government for stoking division in an already divided society. Christians are called to resist the easy option of silos, says Tim Farron MP, instead choosing to walk a path of peace through the culture wars
Indi Gregory’s death is a scandal. Parents should be allowed to act in their child’s interests
Allowing Indi Gregory to die, rather than be moved abroad for treatment reveals serious flaws in the way British courts decide these cases, says Professor David Albert Jones. The law should be changed in order to better recognise the wishes of parents
The M&S Christmas advert isn’t selfish. It’s realistic
Some Christians have expressed their strong dislike for the M&S Christmas ad. But for Chine McDonald, it’s a healthy reminder that we all need setting free from impossible standards, and the need to keep up appearances
The Christmas adverts have arrived! Here are 7 thoughts for Christians to ponder
This year’s Christmas ads cover a myriad of emotions from joy to heartache, says Tim Bechervaise. From the controversial M&S offering to Shelter’s heartbreaking reminder that all is not sparkly and bright for everyone this festive season, here’s his analysis of what Christians can learn from them
As we remember the dead this weekend, let’s honour the peace they gave us
With pro-Palestinian demonstrations planned in the capital this Armistice Day, George Pitcher says it’s easy to call for peace when the conflict is thousands of miles away - much harder when your family is under constant threat from terrorists. Nevertheless, he says, peaceful protests should be welcomed, but antisemitism cannot
As a Palestinian Christian, I still believe in Jesus’ call to peacemaking
Israel is continuing its military operation in Gaza, with the stated aim of eradicating Hamas. But you can't destroy an ideology with bombs, says Lara, a Palestinian Christian. Jesus offers us a better way
How ‘Amazing Grace’ became the world’s most famous hymn
As ‘Amazing Grace’ turns 250 years old, historian James Walvin charts it’s unlikely journey from a humble parish church in England to becoming a global recording phenomenon, even adopted by the communities that the hymn’s author was once complicit in enslaving
Westminster abuse allegations are in the headlines. But our churches need to change too
Former MP Nadine Dorries’ new book contains a series of shocking allegations of rape, sexual abuse and misogyny in the halls of Westminster. Tragically, it’s nothing new, says Bekah Legg. Christians and churches need to equip themselves to respond appropriately
The Evolution of Tithing: From Cash to Contactless
Help increase your monthly donations by using a digital collection plate. Plus an EXCLUSIVE DISCOUNT FOR PREMIER CHRISTIANITY
Gay conversion ban was a notable omission from the King’s Speech
The Evangelical Alliance’s Danny Webster explains what the King’s Speech might mean for Christians and churches
The King’s Speech reminds Christians to keep praying for those in power
Whether monarchist or royalist, left or right, we all have a responsibility to pray for those in power, says Tim Farron. The King’s Speech is a good opportunity to do so, and a reminder of who holds the ultimate power
No Suella, homelessness is not a ‘lifestyle choice’
Suella Braverman has announced plans to restrict the use of tents by homeless people, arguing that people see it as a “lifestyle choice”. But punishing people for seeking refuge is not the answer to solving our homelessness crisis, says Phil Conn
What is the New Apostolic Reformation (NAR)?
The founder of the International House of Prayer (IHOP), Mike Bickle, is facing multiple accusations of sexual misconduct. His organisation, which fuses 24-7 prayer and worship, has long been associated with the New Apostolic Reformation. But what exactly is NAR, and why is it controversial in some quarters? Church historian, Dr John Maiden explains
As a Christian, I believe a Gaza-Israel ceasefire is needed
Symon Hill explains why he’s joining calls for a ceasefire
Is rediscovering Christian values the key to fixing society?
A new coalition of influencers, including Jordan Peterson, Miriam Cates MP and Baroness Stroud, believe that in order to solve the West’s problems, we must return to our Judeo-Christian foundations. Heather Tomlinson reports from the inaugural ARC conference
Character matters. The Covid inquiry proves it
Mark Gilmore says the revelations of sexism, ego and a toxic culture in No. 10 are a reminder that Christians really should care about the character of their elected representatives. There’s a reason why our leaders are called “ministers”
I’ll quit being a vicar on Sunday
The gospel may need no refreshing, but we do. It’s time to go, says George Pitcher
I saw Jordan Peterson at the O2 last night. He’s asking all the right questions
Thousands flocked to London’s O2 arena to hear leading intellectuals including Jordan Peterson and Douglas Murray talk about everything from marriage to the meaning of life. Can a ‘faith-based’ approach to the culture wars help solve society’s problems? Justin Brierley reports
Pray for Indi Gregory, that she may be given the chance of life
A culture of death has taken over our judicial system and NHS, says Andrea Williams. Parents must be free to get their children the medical help they need
Why I still believe the Church of England’s prayers for same-sex couples won’t work
The theological rationale published by CofE bishops in support of their proposed prayers to bless same-sex couples contain welcome honesty, says Sean Doherty. But the pastoral guidance is still fatally flawed and pleases neither side, he says
Beyond Utopia: Watch how a pastor is helping people escape from North Korea
A new documentary tells the story of Pastor Kim, who is helping North Koreans escape the totalitarian dictatorship. Megan Titley went to see it
12-Year Old Gunshot Victim saved by a Medevac Mission
MAF flew a 12-year old gunshot victim to Kompiam District Hospital where doctors saved her life in a strenuous 8-hour operation.
Soul Survivors: Your questions answered
A new podcast from Premier Christianity promises to shed light on the scandal surrounding Mike Pilavachi in order to help the Church heal and move forward. Here’s what you need to know about how and why we are covering this story
The CofE and same-sex blessings: What’s happening now
The debate over same-sex marriage and prayers of blessing continue in the Church of England. Tim Wyatt explains what’s being proposed at the upcoming General Synod and what it might mean for Anglicans
Explained: Who is former Vineyard pastor Alan Scott and what has he been accused of?
The Scottish pastor Alan Scott is facing widespread allegations of spiritual abuse and narcissistic behaviour. Following an independent review, Causeway Coast Vineyard (CCV) in Northern Ireland initially said they “failed to spot some of the warning signs” relating to their former pastor, which included “repeated patterns of…manipulation.” However, it has since emerged CCV’s senior pastors, Neil and Janet Young, "no longer fully support” the investigation and have stepped down from leading the church. Tim Wyatt reports
'Evil spirits used to terrorise me. I know what Halloween is really all about'
Laura Maxwell shares her testimony and explains why Halloween is best avoided
The 4 major lies of Halloween
We should be asking big questions such as: 'What does happen after death?' and 'Where does evil come from?'. But the answers Halloween provides are lies, says J. John.
Why Christians who reject Halloween are missing a trick
Baptist minister Rev Peter Laws explains why he believes Christians should embrace Halloween and the opportunities it provides
The Church is taking on AI, here’s how
Following this week’s AI Global Summit, which is being hosted at Bletchley Park, Chris Goswami looks at how Christian leaders are responding to the threats and opportunities posed by artificial intelligence
Matthew Perry (1969-2023): The Friends star found God at his lowest moment
Matthew Perry, best known for playing Chandler Bing in Friends, died at the weekend. Greg Downes pays tribute to a comic genius who had powerful encounters with God
If Christians want to be understood, they must work with the media, not against it
Ahead of the National Day of Prayer for the Media, journalist Ali Burnett says it’s time for the Church to stop being frightened of engaging with the mainstream press
The greatest wealth transfer in history is underway and the Church is uniquely positioned to support it
In the coming years, Boomers will hand over an unprecedented $100 trillion of wealth to the next generation. Ken Costa explains how the Church can help Zennials manage their money appropriately
Leading like Jesus is the antidote to Church celebrity culture
We often see Jesus portrayed as meek and mild, but he actually led with a fierce humility and was often confrontational, says Paul Friend. In today’s celebrity-obsessed culture, the Church must return to Christ’s example of leadership if we are to model a better way
Antisemitism is hitting the streets of London. Christians must be vocal in their opposition
Antisemitic slogans and declarations of support for Hamas could be seen on the streets of London this past Saturday. Christian Concern's Tim Dieppe says Christians must respond by standing in solidarity with Jewish people
Why Taylor Swift’s superfans are challenging me to be a better Christian
As Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour film smashes box office records, Sam Brown writes on what Christians can learn from the devotion of the Swifties
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.
Pete Greig: I sense a new move of God in Australia
In our aggressively secular age, there are many reasons to believe the Church is on the back-foot, but when Pete Greig recently visited Melbourne to help launch 24-7 Prayer Australia, he sensed God on the move in a fresh way
Will Smith’s open marriage to Jada is the antithesis of Christian love
Will Smith has described his marriage to Jada Pinkett Smith using the portmanteau “brutiful”. John Reynolds explains how Jesus’ teaching about relationships offers us a much more fulfilling vision of romantic love
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 ...
Have a little faith - Kate Bottley
“That vicar off the telly” is how Rev Kate Bottley is known to millions. In her debut book, Bottley sets out her down-to-earth wisdom on success, love, strength, conflict, confidence, loneliness and grief. That sounds like it could be hard-going, except it’s not. It’s like sitting down with a friend, ...
Heroes or villains? - Jeannie Kendall
When Aleksandr Solzhenitsyn famously declared: “The line separating good and evil passes not through states, nor between classes, nor between political parties…but right through every human heart”, he was reminding us that humans are complex creatures, capable of good, evil and everything in-between. When it comes to analysing what someone ...
The sound of musings - Bryony Wood
If you like The Sound of Music, then you will love this book. Bryony Wood connects many aspects of the life of faith to the famous narrative of Maria, the would-be nun who became the governess of the von Trapp children and, eventually, their stepmother, and wife of Georg von ...
Downtime: Our TV, book and music recommendations
Here’s what the Premier Christianity team are reading, watching and listening to this month
Every follower of Jesus should be a lifelong learner
We won’t graduate until our last breath, says Jeff Lucas. And even then we’ll be translated into an eternity of delightful discovery
Soul Survivors
For many years, Soul Survivor stood as a beacon of the UK evangelical movement, leading thousands of young people to faith annually. However, in April 2023, its reputation plummeted following allegations of misconduct against its founder, Mike Pilavachi.
I’ve heard sermons on depression that are spiritually abusive. We need to call it out
Preachers who’ve said depression is evidence of a ‘God-shaped hole’ need correcting, says Rend Collective’s Chris Llewellyn
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