The Odyssey is a brilliant film - and a brutal reminder of what the world was like before Jesus
Have Christian parenting books caused more harm than good?
Spider-Man: Brand New Day reminds us why God never meant us to live alone
From Psalms to ‘African prayer warrior’ energy, Christian hope is evident throughout RAYE’s new album
Bear Grylls’ new TV series explores miracles through a scientific lens
See No Evil: This Channel 4 documentary paints John Smyth’s family as his first victims
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Reviews
This outstanding book on cancer finds God in the darkest places
Can a cancer diagnosis ever be considered a vocation? Anglican priest Rev Lisa Barnett thinks so. Her deeply personal and moving account of faith, suffering and calling is a must-read, says our reviewer
This Christian book on near-death experiences fails to live up to its promises
Michael Zigarelli presents near-death experiences as compelling evidence for an afterlife. But an overreliance on anecdotes, unanswered sceptical objections and an uncertain link to Christianity leave his case less convincing than the title promises, says our reviewer
If Oasis don’t look back in anger, neither should we
The new documentary about rock and roll’s warring brothers is not a tour movie, but a moving tale of reconciliation, says Martin Saunders - with a surprising cameo from their local priest. If Noel and Liam can forgive, there’s hope for us all
Beware. This documentary begins with prophecy but ends with propaganda
Can You Hear Me Now? is supposedly a documentary about prophecy. But Giles Gough warns the compelling topic quickly gives way to propaganda promoting American Christian nationalism
Why Trinity Church Nottingham’s new track is our song of the month
‘Let our worship be pure’ grew from a desire to live on Monday what we sing about on Sunday, says our music editor
Terry Virgo: This new biography charts the unlikely leader who reshaped British church life
Andy Johnston’s biography of Terry Virgo offers an appreciative and carefully researched account of how one unlikely young man’s faith journey reshaped charismatic church life in Britain and beyond - though some readers may wish for a more critical eye, says our reviewer
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Does the Church have a role in healthcare? This book says yes
Calling the Church to rediscover its role in caring for the sick, Preserving the Penultimate is an ambitious and timely challenge – even if its theological foundations sometimes leave the reader unsettled, says our reviewer
‘Death of the Pastor’s Wife’ shows what happens when men are protected and women pay the price
A new docuseries on the death of Mica Miller demonstrates the tragic consequences that can follow from a church which values its reputation more than the safety of those in it, says Bekah Legg
The Passion of the Christ is back in cinemas. Should Christians still watch it?
The Christian classic has had a 4K reboot and is in cinemas now. Nathaniel Smith takes a fresh look at the unexpected success of The Passion of the Christ and asks whether it has stood the test of time
Does the sequel to The Shack live up to the hype?
Return to the Shack is the long awaited follow up to the runaway bestseller which broke records and caused theological controversy. But can William Paul Young’s new title live up to the huge expectations? Our reviewer finds out
JD Vance’s testimony comes with a political agenda
The Vice President of the USA’s new spiritual memoir is disarmingly readable, but beneath the self-deprecating charm and talk of fruitfulness lies something far more troubling, says our reviewer
Hallelujah! is your definitive guide to the top 100 worship songs
From ‘Jesus Stand Among Us’ to ‘History Maker’, Les Moir expertly explores the stories behind songs that transformed contemporary Christian worship, says our reviewer
How should Christians respond to the growth in witchcraft? This book is light on analysis
Belle Tindall-Riley’s new book explores why people are turning to witchcraft, crystals and tarot. Her empathetic approach is welcome, but the book’s analysis falls short of its promise, says our reviewer
Why Elle Limebear’s ‘Give me joy’ is our song of the month
A childhood hymn has been given a new lease of life – and found its way into the UK charts. Our music editor explores why Elle Limebear’s ‘Give me joy’ is striking a chord across the generations
How can churches support young people exploring sexual identity? This book explains
How should Christians respond to young people exploring sexual identity? This thoughtful guide combines theology, psychology and pastoral wisdom, says our reviewer
What can Palestinian Christians teach us about the Old Testament?
In a timely and moving introduction to the Old Testament, Palestinian theologian Yohanna Katanacho weaves together biblical scholarship, covenantal theology and the raw pain of his people’s displacement, says our reviewer
Can the book of Ruth change how Christians see refugees?
In the midst of a loud and angry national debate about migration, a new study guide rooted in the book of Ruth offers churches a calm, compassionate and biblically grounded place to start, says our reviewer
Archbishop Sarah Mullally faces huge challenges. But this book has missed the biggest one
Ten leading Anglican voices offer advice and prayers for Archbishop Sarah Mullally in this multi-author volume. And yet the book also overlooks some of the Church’s most pressing priorities, says our reviewer
Soul Survivor offered teenagers freedom, faith and fun. But was it really a safe space?
In her memoir, When the Music Fades, Lucy Sixsmith revisits the popular Christian festival, Soul Survivor. Her writing raises important questions about power and safeguarding, says our reviewer
Holy Days is neither dramatic nor funny
This tale of three elderly nuns trying to save their convent falls flat as both comedy and drama, says our reviewer. And why do filmmakers keep assuming nuns are intrinsically funny?
The Rapture’s cultish community is a reminder that the world needs full-fat faith
The BBC drama is arguably misnamed, says Tony Wilson. It’s not really about end times, even if it does feel slightly apocalyptic. But it does hold important lessons for Christians who might be tempted to forgo Christian discipleship to make it more palatble
Spider-Man: Brand New Day reminds us why God never meant us to live alone
The latest Spider-Man film is a surprisingly moving meditation on isolation, identity and the human need to be truly known - with lessons that speak directly to the Church, says Holly Price. As Jesus’ prayer in John 17 makes clear, becoming who God made us to be was never meant to be a solo mission
Why this worship anthem from Gas Street is our song of the month
This new release from the Birmingham-based church is a joyful celebration of the gospel, says our music editor
This provocative and intelligent Christian book on AI raises urgent questions
Identity politics and artificial intelligence dominate today’s cultural debates. In Fake ID, Abdu Murray brings a distinctly Christian perspective to both, producing an engaging book that is hard to ignore, says our reviewer
Why have so many great artists converted to Catholicism? This book explains
Why did so many of Britain’s leading writers and artists embrace Catholicism in the 20th century? Melanie McDonagh’s engaging history uncovers a forgotten spiritual movement, though some stories deserved deeper exploration, says our reviewer
This 40-day devotional claims to heal heartbreak and burnout. I’m not sure
Jess Connolly offers a compassionate guide for those recovering from heartbreak and burnout. While thoughtful and encouraging, the book’s relentless optimism may not suit every stage of healing, says our reviewer
The Odyssey is a brilliant film - and a brutal reminder of what the world was like before Jesus
Christopher Nolan’s The Odyssey is an epic adaption of Homer’s classic poem, says Giles Gough. It also offers a fascinating insight into how Christ’s teachings on compassion and love changed our ideas about what a civilised society really looks like
Have Christian parenting books caused more harm than good?
The Myth of Good Christian Parenting traces the rise of parenting resources over the last 50 years, focusing on how Christian authors have idealised obedient children at all costs. But what are the consequences of this doctrine? Our reviewer finds out
Have Christians lost sight of the real Jesus? This book says so
The Missing Messiah challenges readers to consider whether their view of Jesus has been shaped more by culture than by scripture. Clear and practical, it offers a compelling call to discipleship, though some critiques feel overly broad, says our reviewer
What should Christian masculinity look like? This book explains
In a culture saturated with performative masculinity and manosphere noise, Zachary Wagner’s Men of Virtue offers something quietly radical, says our reviewer
Why this beautiful track from Saint Music is our song of the month
Born out of prayer gatherings that are uniting hundreds of young Christians in London, ‘At Your feet’ is a heartfelt expression of devotion, says our music editor
Want to better support those who grieve? Read this
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
Exploring Spirit: A wise guide for those asking life’s biggest questions
Giles Goddard’s new book offers wisdom for spiritual seekers, though some readers may long for firmer theological grounding, says our reviewer
Can God love us through art? This book thinks so
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
Craig Groeschel’s outstanding book on burnout and breakdown will help many
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
Disclosure Day: A religiously thoughtful film from one of cinema’s greatest storytellers
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
Prophecy, miracles and tough obedience: This true story of faith in South Africa will inspire you
The Daisies of Africa is an honest and astonishing story of faith and sacrifice, says our reviewer
Anxiety might deepen your faith. That’s according to this outstanding Christian book
Blair Linne’s Made To Tremble offers a nuanced and biblical perspective on anxiety, says our reviewer in this rare five star review
Michael Coren’s priestly diary is wise, witty and quietly challenging
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
Think you’re not creative? Al Gordon wants to change your mind
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”
Star Wars: The Mandalorian and Grogu shows us the Father heart of God
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
Why this soulful worship track from Jake Isaac is our song of the month
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
Arthur Brooks is a Christian and expert on meaning. So why doesn’t his book mention Jesus?
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
Could Christ return in the 2040s?
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
Want more joy in your life? Read this life changing book
Natalie Brand’s From Crimson to White offers a rich and compelling guide to finding joy in Jesus, says our reviewer
M.I.A.’s long-awaited Christian album is bold, baffling and deeply sincere
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
Why this powerful worship track from KXC is our song of the month
This reflective new worship song is calling congregations back to the heart of the gospel, says our music editor
Did North Korea’s dictatorship grow out of a Christian revival?
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
Who’s to blame for church decline? We are, says this church leader
Martyn Percy’s latest book reads like a horror story told through statistics. From plummeting baptism rates to empty pews, his analysis of church decline makes for grim reading. But the real shock lies in his central thesis: that much of Christianity’s retreat is self-inflicted
This Christian historian believes we’re living in the ‘Age of Hitler’. Is he right?
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
The Drama asks deep questions about forgiveness, second chances and redemption
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
This analysis of Stranger Things and the Gospel has merit. Just a shame it’s been rushed
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
From Psalms to ‘African prayer warrior’ energy, Christian hope is evident throughout RAYE’s new album
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
Project Hail Mary points towards the power of sacrificial love
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
This stunning series from the home of The Chosen brings the Lord’s Prayer to life
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
Is Christian Aid just Oxfam with hymns? This book suggests it might be
A new book marking Christian Aid’s 80th anniversary offers valuable insights into the charity’s pioneering approach to poverty. But sadly it fails to explain how faith makes it distinctive from secular development agencies, says our reviewer
How a builder became a Baptist minister and comedian before facing terminal cancer
From building sites to the pulpit, comedy clubs and Britain’s Got Talent, Allan Finnegan’s extraordinary journey took a devastating turn when he received a terminal cancer diagnosis. And yet his new book suggests faith and humour are sustaining him, says our reviewer
The Testaments shows what can happen when faith is weaponised. Christians should take note
The TV adaptation of Margaret Atwood’s The Testaments follows two teenage girls navigating Gilead’s brutal regime. Giles Gough says this show comes with a timely call for Christians to distance themselves from any ideology that resembles this dystopian theocracy
Sometimes It’s Funny: An honest portrait of early parenthood in all its mess and joy
Told through the refreshing perspective of both mother and father, this new book traces one couple’s journey through the early years of parenthood. Our reviewer says Edward and Josi Flood honestly and humourously capture the adventure in all its mess, joy and exhaustion
BBC’s Pilgrimage is a beautiful picture of difference that doesn’t have to become division
As BBC’s feel-good faith series returns for its eighth installment, AJ Gomez reviews Pilgrimage discovering that while dramatic conversions may not feature, watching strangers search for something greater than themselves – and love one another along the way – can be just as compelling
How should Christians think about Israel?
As the conflict in the Middle East continues to dominate headlines, a new book by Professor Emeritus Dr Michael Rydelnik considers how Christians should think about Israel and the Jewish people today
This liturgical book invites readers to inhabit the drama of Holy Week
Looking for a practical companion this Holy Week? Hope in Community combines reflection and action to help readers live out the Easter story, says our reviewer
New Wine leader Rich Johnson has written an outstanding book on humble Christian leadership
As toxic leadership cultures continue to be exposed across denominations, Rich Johnson’s timely book offers a biblical framework for leading well and sustainably in the church, says our reviewer
Need a reflective, poetic read for Holy Week? Try this
Bonnie B. Thurston’s contemplative collection offers reflective poems and meditations to guide readers through death and resurrection during Holy Week says our reviewer
Inside the Manosphere shows a generation of men that desperately need Jesus
After watching Louis Theroux’s most recent documentary, Luke Smith says the crisis facing our young men is the same today as it’s always been. They are searching for meaning, value and purpose in all the wrong places. It’s time for Christian men to become fathers to a fatherless generation
This book explores why Black British Christians are leaving mainstream churches
A new book by E.P. Louis argues that many Black Christians are not rejecting God, but a form of Colonial Christianity they’re encountering in British churches
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