A polite knock on the door may be unwanted, but does that give the state the right to ban it? Following a landmark ruling regarding Jehovah’s Witnesses in Bulgaria, Lidia Rieder says it’s wrong to ban expressions of religious belief on the basis of mere “annoyance”
Katie Ivings grew up a stranger to Christianity, but her grandfather’s funeral and a mysterious vision of a door in her student accomodation set her on an unexpected path to faith
The shaking of secularism is driving young people towards Jesus, says KXC Church leader Pete Hughes. He explains why he’s convinced revival is already on the way
When Emmanuel Hammond was 14 years old, he attended his first Christian festival. There, a photographer felt prompted in a dream to give the teenager an expensive SLR camera. It released a God-given gift that he has been refining ever since
For the second year in a row, more than 1,000 people from five churches have gathered on Bournemouth beach to celebrate mass baptisms. Rev Tim Matthews says there’s no special secret to the growth they’re seeing - just ten years of church leaders learning to love one another as Jesus commanded them to
Bukayo Saka and Noni Madueke are competing for the same England position, yet Saka describes their relationship not in terms of envy or rivalry, but respect and brotherhood. Andrew Dutton explores the Christian values shaping their bond
It took nearly 2,000 years to translate the Bible into 400 languages. The next 400 took just 28 years. As the Bible reaches its 800th language, Wycliffe Bible Translators’ Jeremy Weightman explores the remarkable acceleration in Bible translation - and the immense task that still lies ahead for the 1.5 billion people without scripture in their own language
When Jérémy Doku temporarily left Belgium’s World Cup camp to attend the birth of his first child, he faced sharp criticism including one television presenter’s “outrage” at his decision. But Tim Bechervaise argues that Doku’s choice offered a powerful Christian witness
The former DUP leader Jeffrey Donaldson has been found guilty of historical sex offences in a trial that has shaken Northern Ireland to its core. A professing Christian and prominent public figure, his crimes demand a serious response from the Church, says David Smyth
A new book by David Oliver, written following the sudden death of his son Joel, offers a thoughtful exploration of grief that combines personal experience with biblical insight and practical guidance for supporting those who mourn, says our reviewer
Giles Goddard’s new book offers wisdom for spiritual seekers, though some readers may long for firmer theological grounding, says our reviewer
Neary half of all Christians make money from business or a side hustle. They are trusting God and stepping out in faith every day - but the Church is failing to recognise or make space for them, says Derek Hughes
As Rev Jamie Sewell watched the body of his 95-year-old parishioner weaken, he saw her faith deepen. Humans find death so hard because we were made for eternity, he says. We only make peace with it when we find the hope of heaven
It’s hard to let a vision die, says Niall Dunne. But until it does, nothing can grow up in its place. That’s why he’s trusting God’s still small voice as the festival he leads gathers together to celebrate their final event in its current form - and usher in a new season of mission in the south west of England
When Bangladesh’s new government won a landslide victory earlier this year, they promised to create a tolerant and inclusive society for all faiths. But Christians say attacks against them are increasing. Open Doors’ Asha Lindsay* explains what’s happening
In a conversation with Bryce Crawford, rapper Nicki Minaj said she was unprepared for the spiritual warfare she would face as a music artist. Hope Bonarcher asks what Christians should make of her claims that the entertainment industry is full of secret societies
Less than two years after a historic victory, Keir Starmer’s resignation leads to yet more turmoil in British politics. Christians shouldn’t be surprised, says Tim Farron MP. Politicians are only human and our government isn’t perfect. That’s why the Bible calls Christians to pray for those in power
Nine years after the Grenfell Tower disaster, another west London fire killed three men in Rev Jamie Sewell’s parish. The tragedy caused him to reflect on what Christian community and being a good Samaritan really looks like
In his resignation speech, the labour party leader made an emotional admission. Those closest to us often pay the highest price for our ‘calling’. It’s a stark warning to those in church ministry, says Derek Hughes
In Art Is How God Loves Us, Merideth Hite Estevez offers a warm invitation to encounter God through beauty and creativity. Though some readers may long for firmer theological grounding, her vision of art as a pathway to grace is compelling, says our reviewer
Seven prime ministers in ten years is a problem, notes the leader of Christians in Politics. Andy Flannagan argues we need to ask how 24-hour news media and social media soundbites are making an already tough job even harder
Why translating the Bible is such a key part of people coming to know Jesus around the world
Bryce Crawford and Tristan Tate spent nearly two hours discussing their Christian faith. But after listening to an exchange devoid of curiosity, in which troubling claims went unchallenged, Tim Yearsley was left wondering whether it was a conversation worth having in the first place
Is a powerful Christian media mogul responsible for climate change misinformation? Clare Fussell explains why Christian climate group Operation Noah is so concerned about Sir Paul Marshall’s recent donations to churches
Between 1949 and 1976, thousands of unmarried women were pressured into giving up their babies for adoption through a system partly overseen by churches. The Church of England has now apologised for its part, but Tarn Bright says repentance must be matched by action
Craig Groeschel’s personal experience of “the emotions no one talks about”, combined with clinical psychologist Wayne Chappell’s expertise, creates a powerful resource that debunks the myth that good Christians shouldn’t struggle with mental health issues, says our reviewer
He may be one of Britain’s most celebrated hymnwriters, but Isaac Watts misread scripture when he confused the promises God made to the children of Israel with those made to modern day nation states. It’s a conversation that’s never been more relevant, says Daniel Johnson
Faced with the prospect of end times prophecies and predictions of Armageddon, George Pitcher says that a Christian response isn’t to await heavenly rescue but live in a way that brings heaven to earth now
Could scientific research into what happens between the edges of life and death prove that Jesus is real? One researcher thinks it may be possible. From atheists finding faith to Muslims encountering Christ, he explains why the evidence for near death experiences might just be the greatest Christian apologetic ever
The government’s social media ban for under-16s may give parents some welcome breathing space. But Christian parents need to address their own digital habits too, warns Glynn Harrison
Reliance Bank was founded as the bank for The Salvation Army in 1890
The courts have recently intervened in two high-profile cases involving family disputes over whether loved ones should be cremated or buried, with some citing Christian beliefs as the reason for preferring burial. Tony Wilson explains why some Christians hold to this belief
A children’s book publisher has drawn criticism from many Muslims for its portrayal of a lesbian woman in a hijab. The controversy speaks to the changing definitions of ‘left’ and ‘right’ in British politics, says Lois McLatchie Miller. She argues that Christians must remember that no political coalition can fully represent our convictions
Following a brutal stabbing in Northern Ireland, protests quickly escalated into attacks on homes and communities. As fear, anger and division continue to grow, the head of the Evangelical Alliance NI urges Christians to challenge hatred wherever it appears and stand alongside neighbours with prayer
YouVersion’s Bible app has been downloaded one billion times and continues to break daily engagement records. Its founder, Bobby Gruenewald reflects on how digital accessibility is transforming Bible reading and creating unprecedented opportunities for churches to meet faith-curious seekers where they already are
The martyrdoms of St Peter and St Paul have long been cited as evidence for the truth of Christianity. But how strong is the historical case - and what does their extraordinary witness teach believers today?
If it turned out tomorrow that aliens were real, how would it impact your faith? This much anticipated sci-fi thriller from Steven Spielberg examines the big questions of truth and knowledge, says our reviewer
The decision to re-introduce the Lord’s Prayer before meetings is a welcome return to a long-standing tradition of Christianity in British politics and public life, says the Vice President of Reform UK’s Christian Fellowship
The excitement surrounding SpaceX’s historic stock market flotation reflects a culture captivated by wealth, technology and escape. But the Gospel calls Christians to something far more grounded, says James Gordon Reid. The mission isn’t Mars – it’s Earth
The GB News co-owner’s decision to give millions to HTB has been criticised by Christian climate campaigners. But having looked at the details, Rev Ian Paul can find nothing to complain about
Rather than staying at the surface level, Andrew Bunt invites Christians to think more deeply about the worldview foundations shaping today’s conversations about sexuality. Here’s how you can engage with clarity, humility and conviction
As the world’s attention turns to the imminent World Cup, Christian footballers from across the globe have already been unashamedly expressing their faith. Tim Bechervaise rounds up some of the Christian players, teams and stories to watch
Kate Orson grew up recycling, embracing vegetarianism and protesting for environmental causes. Now, reflecting on her journey from teenage activist to Christian, she argues that some of the policies promoted by the green movement are actually harmful to people and the planet
As Steven Bartlett continues to explore the meaning of life with leading Christian apologists, Becky Hunter-Kelm writes an open letter to the ‘Diary of a CEO’ host. She praises his intellectual curiosity, and invites him to take the next step in his search for truth
Former Hillsong leader Brian Houston has denied watching pornography, calling the content posted on his social media channels “vile”. While speculation on an individual case would be wrong, Cat Etherington from Naked Truth Project says it’s important to remember that pornography can be a temptation for Christian leaders as much as anyone else. She explains how to get help
Rich Johnson is championing a vision of renewal rooted not in celebrity, but in what he calls “gloriously ordinary” local churches. Speaking to Sam Hailes, the vicar of All Saints Worcester reflects on leadership, cultural change and why New Wine has stopped advertising their summer gatherings on the basis of ‘big name’ preachers
What do AI social media reels depicting Jesus as a miracle-performing superhero have in common with sermons full of Christianese jargon? George Pitcher says they both point to the Church’s biggest problem: a failure to communicate the gospel well
Much has been made of football’s Christian revival and the recent wave of players speaking openly about their faith. But a survey carried out by Christians in Sport suggests the presence of Christianity in the professional game may be even more widespread than first thought. Graham Daniels explains how
Henry Nowak died pleading for help while police focused on allegations that he had made a racist remark. Jamie Bambrick contends that his death exposes the dangers of recent policies of race which have impacted both the Church and wider culture. He’s calling on Christians to return to the biblical principle of equal justice for all
It’s 500 years since William Tyndale first translated the New Testament into English. This monumental piece of work came at great personal cost, as Jenny Sanders explains
The Daisies of Africa is an honest and astonishing story of faith and sacrifice, says our reviewer
Blair Linne’s Made To Tremble offers a nuanced and biblical perspective on anxiety, says our reviewer in this rare five star review
Lois McLatchie Miller says Sweden’s move to ban marriage between first cousins is waking society up to a truth Christianity has long understood. What if there are more boundaries to relationships than just consent?
The Anglican bishop of Goma in the DRC, explains how the Church is at the forefront of practical aid, tackling misinformation and providing pastoral care amid the Ebola outbreak
Following recent scandals and allegations of abuse, Bethel Church leaders have announced a wide review of governance, culture and ministry practices. Some believe the megachurch should take a closer look at its potentially destructive ‘culture of honour’. Former Bethel student Tim Boxer explains more
A young Sikh man committed a horrific crime and serious questions remain about the police response. Both require scrutiny, and the anger felt by many is justified, says Rev Jamie Sewell. But Christians must resist the temptation to turn one act of evil into a judgement on entire communities
Following the murder of Henry Nowak and the subsequent trial, riots have placed Southampton in unrest. But looking beyond the headlines, Southampton church leader Paul Woodman sees a different story of ordinary people seeking the peace of their city through compassion and service amid grief and anger
The Texas-based Austin Stone Worship collective were forced to rethink how Christian songwriters are compensated after a painful scandal involving their own worship pastor. Kenny Kinglesmith explains what an alternative to CCLI might look like
When a government trial restricted teenagers’ access to social media, some reported anxiety and a sense of isolation. Derek Hughes argues the findings reveal something deeper than screen addiction: a generation in fear of silence, and a Church that has forgotten how to inhabit it
Kemi Badenoch may have a genuinely deep appreciation for churches. But Danny Webster says the quest to preserve old buildings falls short of what Christianity is all about
The Pentagon’s UFO website has garnered a record-breaking 1 billion hits in less than a month. Dr Michael Tang says it’s time for the Christians to stop arguing about what aliens are or whether they exist, and focus on why so many people are searching the sky. The human desire for something other-worldly can only truly be satisfied in Jesus
Young people have been sold a future that is no longer there, says Bukunmi Awofisayo. But rather than becoming disillusioned, she’s choosing to find hope in the God who never changes, and in the unexpected opportunities that uncertainty brings
Rev Michael Coren’s Diary of a Low-Born Cleric is a warm, witty and deeply human portrait of Christian ministry. Through stories of faith, suffering and everyday encounters, Coren gently invites readers into his world, says our reviewer
Creativity is not just for artists. It’s a calling for all Christians. That’s according to church leader Al Gordon, whose new book Spark promises to “unleash your God-given creativity”
The case of three teenage boys who were spared jail for brutally raping two girls has rightly sparked outrage across the country, says Bekah Legg. But even when a human justice system can’t be relied upon, God’s justice can
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