October
Does the Bible prohibit sex before marriage?
A megachurch Baptist preacher in the US has caused controversy after stating sex outside of marriage is morally permissible. In his sermon, Dr Delman Coates said there was “no biblical basis” for abstinence until marriage. In this response, Dr Ian Paul argues that while cohabitation is not specifically mentioned in scripture, it is included within prohibitions against "sexual immorality"
Assisted suicide discriminates against people with disabilities. MPs must vote against it
Disability rights campaigners say the assisted dying Bill, which returns to the Commons this week, violates their human rights. As they get ready to take their case to the UN, Christian Institute lawyers agree the Bill is incompatible with the European Convention on Human Rights
‘No man knoweth the hour’: The biblical case for ditching due dates
Only five per cent of births occur on their predicted date. After watching his wife struggle with the unreliability of due dates, Jack Chisnall wonders if it’s time to ditch them. Acknowledging our lack of abililty to control timings is biblical, he says
I gave up tech for Lent. Here’s how it helped my mental health
After a two-year struggle with anxiety, Dave Kemp gave up all electronic entertainment for Lent – TV, social media and phone-based games. This mental health week, he says it not only helped his mind, it also improved his relationship with God and his family
World peace is possible in 5 years. Here’s how Christians can make it happen
200 million people have died in wars since 1900. There is a better way, says Alan Storkey. He believes the disarming of the world is possible, and it all starts with Christians grasping the counter-cultural implications of the gospel
Kristi McLelland’s invitation to feast on God’s Word doesn’t fully satisfy
Kristi McLelland’s new book Feasting on God’s Word uses the metaphor of a feast to explore scripture. While the book offers some helpful insights, structural issues and an uneven focus weaken its overall impact, says Nike Aremu
What does the quiet revival look like? Here’s a snapshot from one London church
This is the story of how one “normal” church plant went from lockdown Zoom arguments to packed-out Easter services. Fuelled by Gen Z leaders, radical hospitality, and faithfulness to scripture, their story echoes the findings of “The Quiet Revival” – not flashy, but undeniably real. Church leader Andy Brims shares the tale of the church that discovered renewal is still possible
Facebook’s Mark Zuckerberg thinks AI chatbots will cure loneliness. He’s wrong
Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg is predicting a future where AI personas will become your “friends”. But innovation strategist James Poulter says AI friendship is a false promise. The model of friendship Jesus gives us is far more meaningful
The Catholic Church has its first US-born Pope. What do we know about Leo XIV?
Cardinal Robert Prevost has been elected as the 267th leader of the Catholic Church. Pope Leo XIV was an unexpected choice, so here’s what we know about the Augustinian priest who was formerly a missionary in Peru
5 ways the Church has changed since Covid-19
In the five years since Covid-19, the Church has changed significantly. But it was not killed off as many predicted. Instead, it adapted and in many places is growing, says a new report from the Evangelical Alliance. Danny Webster explores
I’m praying Pope Leo will bring Catholics and Anglicans closer together
Pope Leo XIV has been elected as the new head of the Catholic Church. Could the curious coincidence of a new Archbishop of Canterbury at the same time present a fresh opportunity for Anglicans and Catholics to work together? George Pitcher makes the case for reunification
Lamorna Ash spent a year searching for God. Did she find what she was looking for?
What draws Gen Z to Christianity and what might they find there? In Don’t Forget We’re Here Forever, Lamorna Ash explores faith with honesty, depth and a storyteller’s eye, offering an intriguing glimpse into a generation’s spiritual searching, says Derek Walker
Have you ever wondered why people love spring?
There are “everyday clues” to the meaning of life. That’s the new evangelistic book, Have You Ever Wondered? Here, one of the contributors, Michael Ots, demonstrates how the changing seasons can provide an opportunity to share your faith
630 kids and teens gave their life to Jesus at Spring Harvest. Britain’s quiet revival just got louder
Amid reports of a quiet revival, Abby Guinness shares a similar story from this year’s Spring Harvest — only theirs was one of vibrant, youthful worship, renewed passion for Jesus, and growing intergenerational faith that was anything but quiet
Good triumphed over evil in the second world war. But the peace of Christ was lost
In the aftermath of the second world war, the Western world had an opportunity to lay down their weapons. Instead, they chose a path of militarism over peace, argues Alan Storkey. On the 80th anniversary of VE day he says it is time to consider what was lost
Sinners: A boundary-crossing horror movie that tackles religion
Sinners is a fun, stylish, vampiric horror that highlights racial justice issues and has great music. Christians may not like how the Church is portrayed, says Jonty Langley, but if that’s the case, they should ask themselves why it is perceived that way
Beyond the quiet revival: 10 ways you can rise to this missional moment
Encouraging headlines about a quiet revival of faith in the UK are new territory for many pastors. Here’s Robin Ham’s ten lessons for church leaders
Does America really need an anti-Christian task force?
US President Donald Trump has set up a task force to eradicate anti-Christian bias in government. But what exactly does that mean and is it even needed? Billy Hallowell explains
Dr Michael Brown has been accused of sexual misconduct. He should not return to ministry
An independent report has said the prominent Christian apologist Dr Michael Brown engaged in “sexually abusive misconduct” yet those who commissioned the report have cleared him to return to ministry. We must not confuse forgiveness with re-admittance to leadership - it’s re-traumatising for victims and unsafe for the Church, argues Gavin Drake
Explained: What is the conclave and how does it work?
Scheduled for 7 May, the conclave to elect the next pope is fast approaching. As the Catholic Church prepares for its new leader, Thomas Chacko explains the origins of the conclave, how the confidential process works, and the spiritual weight behind it
Nic Fiddian-Green: The acclaimed sculptor and recovering alcoholic on his search for the face of Christ
Best known for his equine sculptures, Nic Fiddian Green opens up about his new, deeply personal work — a crucified Christ — and the journey of suffering, reflection and solitude it led him on
The Alarm’s Mike Peters (1959-2025): The musician who just happened to be a Christian
Mike Peters, lead singer of The Alarm, has died of cancer aged 66. Derek Walker reflects on the life of the Welsh punk rocker who was a contemporary of U2’s Bono, an avid campaigner and a creative force to the end
Many churches are reporting record-breaking Easter attendance. Here’s the best stories
From mass baptisms to churches being so full they had to turn people away, the number of good news stories from the Easter weekend have exceeded many people’s expectations. We round up the most encouraging stories following what appears to be an unprecedented weekend for many churches. Add your own stories in the comments section below
T.D. Jakes has retired from leading The Potter’s House megachurch. But this isn’t the end
He built a 30,000-strong church, advised presidents, produced and starred in films, and led record labels — all on his way to becoming a household name in the Christian world. Now, after 50 years in ministry, T.D Jakes is stepping down — but he isn’t stepping away, says George Luke
Cody Gakpo told the world "I belong to Jesus". His unashamed faith is an example to us all
On the day his club lifted the Premier League trophy, Cody Gakpo revealed a shirt reading “I belong to Jesus.” For professional footballer John Bostock, it was a powerful reminder: your faith is to be shared — whatever your platform, whatever the cost
Which Christian festival should you attend? Take this quiz to find out!
Which summer festival is right for you? Take our (very serious and scientific) quiz to find out
What churches can learn from this chicken shop
The American fast food chain Chick-fil-A has consistently outsold its competitors. But it isn’t just the food that makes it successful, observes Jeff Lucas
Power to preach
At Pentecost we remember how the Holy Spirit equipped the first Christians with supernatural gifts so they could witness for Christ. May the same be true today, says Lucy Peppiatt
God doesn’t meet us in striving. He meets us in the stillness
Silence creates room for transformation, says Joshua Luke Smith
'When I asked God if he was Allah, I heard a voice reply "I am Jesus Christ"'
Ruqayyah Valencia-Dacosta struggled with anxiety and depression leading to a suicide attempt. But an encounter with the love of God took her from Islam to Christianity
8 ways to prevent prophetic abuse in your church
How can your church create a safe, biblical culture around the powerful gift of prophecy? David Shadbolt shares wisdom on guarding against the manipulation it’s vulnerable to, while making room for the Spirit to move
An idiot’s guide to the Council of Nicea’s big posh creed of compromise
This month marks 1,700 years since the council of Nicaea met to agree the statement of faith still said in many churches around the world each week. Nick Page delves into the murky world of Church politics, arguments about theology and what any of it has to do with Christians today
Worship leader turned pastor Tauren Wells: ‘My mission is to call greatness out of others’
The pastor and ‘Hills and valleys’ singer reflects on the voices that shaped him, the disappointment that almost derailed him, and why he believes today’s young men don’t need a platform – they need a father
‘God called me to improve the mental health of a million people’
After becoming disillusioned with his military career, Will Petty reached rock bottom, grappling with depression and alcoholism. He explains how God led him to a greater purpose and a new vocation – to forge a path for others to find their healing
The renewable energy manager: 'I want to love God and neighbour by making a positive difference'
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
Saving boys: Recovering Christ-like masculinity in the age of Adolescence
As the hit Netflix series Adolescence prompts a national debate about toxic influences on young men, Martin Saunders suggests practical solutions the Church needs to adopt now
6 lessons you may have missed from the quiet revival
News of a growing number of young people - and in particular young men - turning back to Christian faith has grabbed the attention of even the secular media in recent months. It’s great news, says Jean Kabasomi. But behind the headlines of this quiet revival, there are lessons the Church needs to learn
Ray Comfort: The evangelist who “makes sinners tremble” on fear, death and false converts
The straight-talking evangelist whose conversations with strangers rack up millions of YouTube views is worried the Church is producing false converts. If you want to see people come to a lasting faith, stop starting with ‘Jesus loves you’, he says
17,000 people were just baptised in France. God is on the move
s the French Catholic Church reports record numbers of baptisms over the Easter weekend, Tony Wilson wonders whether the ‘quiet revival’ is also happening outside of the UK
Chosen - Connect with God’s heart for children
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3,500 churches have closed over the last decade. But is this a problem or a path forward?
As historic church buildings are repurposed into gyms, cafes and even mosques, many are fearing the decline of Christianity in Britain. But others say it could be an opportunity to refocus the Church’s mission
Who will be the next leader of the Church of England?
The position of Archbishop of Canterbury has been vacant since January 2025. Who will be the person to guide the Church of England through what has been a volatile era of polarisation, safeguarding scandals, yet spiritual awakening amongst the youth and renewal in the UK. Here are seven prospective candidates
Nicaragua’s Easter crackdown on Christians is no anomaly
Christians in Nicaragua are being subjected to a disturbingly routine suppression by their government – yet, as Ellis Heasley reports, the Church remains committed to voicing its faith
This book teaches you how to embrace God even in suffering
In Embracing God in Your Suffering, Dave Furman offers a tender, biblically grounded reflection on walking with God through pain, disability, and disappointment. Rooted in personal experience and rich in scriptural hope, this book calls you to find joy in clinging to Christ
3 urgent tasks the next pope must get right
As the Catholic Church prepares for its next pope, Jay Valero outlines three priorities that the Church — and the world beyond it — will need him to focus on
Building Multicultural Churches is a flawed call for diversity
Tony Thompson’s Building Multicultural Churches tackles the challenges of building ethnically diverse congregations with passion and honesty. But while his insights are often powerful, some sweeping generalisations risk alienating the very audience he hopes to inspire
“Uncle John”: Remembering the man who changed the face of evangelicalism
John Stott, once named among of the 100 most influential people in the world, possessed a borderless influence that shaped the global evangelical movement. Ahead of Stott’s birthday (27 April) Dr Donald Sweeting honours his dear friend’s life
This ambitious series reveals new finds in biblical archaeology. But there’s more to the story
While Land of the Bible offers Christian unearths beauty in a broken land, it also sidesteps the obvious political tensions in the Holy Land today. Viewers should be aware this is as much a promotion for tourism to Israel as it is an insight into biblical archaeology, says Chris Sinkinson
How your church can be like a symphony orchestra
Dr Gareth Crispin presents a vision of intergenerational faith, where every person, from the youngest to the oldest, has a part to play in the music of God’s kingdom
This attempt to silence Christian street preachers was a serious threat to religious freedom
Rushmoor Council’s efforts to stop Christian street preachers represents a significant and deeply troubling attack on freedom of speech and religious expression, says Christian Concern’s Andrea Williams
Experience Jesus, Really will teach you to slow down and meet God daily
In a world of constant noise, John Eldredge’s Experience Jesus, Really invites believers into a deeper, more personal encounter with God. Blending mysticism, spiritual reflection and everyday faith, it’s a book that challenges sceptics to slow down and truly abide
This book offers 57 ways to see the gospel anew. But not all of it resonates
Andrew Wilson’s Gospel Stories aims to explore the richness and depth of the gospel. The balancing of theological depth with vivid storytelling, should be commended, says our reviewer. But some of the biblical exegesis raises questions
Let’s speak with grace and truth. Men cannot become women
After much cultural debate, the UK Supreme Court has ruled that a woman is a biological female. The truth has finally won, says Lois McLatchie-Miller
10 brilliant things Pope Francis said about God
Few leaders spoke with the warmth, wisdom and weight of Pope Francis. No matter the subject of his address his words cut through and challenged us to see each other, the world and our faith differently. Here are ten of his most profound statements
Pope Francis (1936-2025): The people’s pope
Pope Francis has died at the age of 88. He was the Bishop of Rome from 2013 to 2025 in a papacy characterised by a dedication to the marginalised and a deep care for God’s creation. Though his time in office was not free from criticism and controversy, it was one that will leave a lasting impact on Catholics around the world, says Catherine Pepinster
2073: This chilling glimpse of the future demands a Christian response
Asif Kapadia’s latest film blends dystopian fiction with chillingly real archive footage to portray a future shaped by authoritarianism, climate catastrophe and tech tyranny. But in a world that already feels on the brink, is 2073 a wake-up call - or a cause for despair?
The Killing Fields: Can there be redemption for a genocidal killer?
Today marks 50 years since the beginning of the Khmer Rouge’s reign of terror, during which 1.3 million people were killed and buried in the Cambodian Killing Fields. In looking at the history, Julia Cameron unearths a shocking story of God’s lavish grace
Who pastors the pastors?
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You can be confident the resurrection of Jesus Christ really happened. Here’s why
With the most significant day in the Christian calendar approaching, Andy Witherall unveils five undeniable facts supporting Jesus’ resurrection
House church - a journey back to our roots
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English Heritage is wrong. Easter isn’t pagan
As English Heritage release a children’s booklet claiming “the goddess Eostre gave Easter its name!”, George Lapshynov debunks the increasingly common claim that Easter originated as a pagan festival
Faith at 32,000 feet: why I’m learning to change my perspective
From last minute packing to flower stems, Gemma Hunt explains how she’s letting God shape the view
Israel’s attack on a Christian hospital breaks my heart. We will keep praying for peace
The last operating hospital in the Gaza Strip was hit by an Israeli airstrike yesterday. Israel says a Hamas command and control centre was being operated from inside the medical facility. The head of Bethlehem Bible College Rev Jack Sara condemns the attack and says he fears for the remaining 600 Christians in Gaza
God wants you to be happy. Pope Francis explains why
In I Want You to Be Happy, Pope Francis makes the bold claim that God desires our happiness. Blending scripture, tradition, and everyday wisdom, this is a thought-provoking and helpful book for everyone - not just Catholics, says Jonty Langley
Why the mainstream media’s reporting on alleged abuse at YWAM falls short
Christians should be grateful whenever abusive practices within the Church are brought into the light. But too often a lack of religious literacy within our national newspapers leads to inaccurate reporting, says Tim Wyatt
Will Smith’s spiritual openness is both a door and a danger
During a recent interview with the rapper Lecrae, Hollywood A-lister Will Smith opened up about his spiritual beliefs. But should Christians welcome Smith’s comments, or approach them with caution?
3 vital lessons the Church still needs to learn from Bonhoeffer
80 years after Dietrich Bonhoeffer was executed by the Nazis, the young German theologian’s writings continue to challenge Christians. From resisting toxic nationalism to staying faithful despite Church failings, his life and legacy remain urgently relevant in a world grappling with division, says Krish Kandiah
Should Christians forgive people who are not sorry? RT Kendall responds to David Instone-Brewer
It might take superhuman strength to forgive people who are unrepentant, says RT Kendall. But with God’s help, it is possible
The UK is experiencing a quiet revival. It’s taken me by surprise
A very British revival has arrived, according to new research from Bible Society. It’s an exciting time to be a Christian in the UK, says Chine McDonald
The marriage you want: Evidence-based advice for Christian couples that actually helps
This new book by Sheila Wray Gregoire and Dr Keith Gregoire promises advice on marriage based on biblical wisdom and thorough research. Giles Gough loved it so much he gave it a 5-star review
Ireland Church Experiences Spiritual Renewal
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Justin Welby’s BBC interview was a very bad idea. What was he thinking?
Perhaps the former Archbishop of Canterbury intended to convey remorse and accountability in his conversation with Laura Kuenssberg. But that’s not how it’s been received, observes George Pitcher
Love your neighbour…unless they’re an archbishop?
Newcastle Cathedral has cancelled a planned speaking appearance by the Archbishop of York Stephen Cottrell, citing concerns over his handling of safeguarding. Rev Dr Christopher Landau argues that instead of resorting to worldly tactics of de-platforming, the Cathedral should heed the New Testament’s radical call for love and unity
The police just violated a place of worship. I'm frightened about the future
The heavy-handed police raid on a Quaker meeting house should be a wakeup call to anyone who cares about freedom of religion or expression, says Symon Hill
Want to see renewal? Parents will have a unique role to play
By all means celebrate stories of a revival of spiritual interest among Gen Z. But if we don’t empower Christian parents to pass faith onto their children, we won’t move the needle on church growth, says Gareth Crispin
The Streets vs the Kingdom: A powerful exploration of faith, gang culture, and redemption
In The Streets vs the Kingdom, Moses Nwanji explores the harsh realities of UK gang culture, uncovering the forces that lure people into the streets and the false promises that keep them trapped. Blending personal testimony, biblical wisdom, and cultural critique, he challenges readers to rethink street life through the lens of faith, says Brian Kapuku
The Christian faith of JD Vance
The once ‘hillbilly’ evangelical is now a powerful Catholic. Heather Tomlinson explores the changing faith of the Vice President of the United States
As a Christian doctor, I know allowing assisted dying will be a disaster
The Isle of Man’s newly passed Assisted Dying Bill is not a compassionate safeguard, but a dangerous enabler with ethical missteps that forces doctors into legal grey areas. The welfare of society’s most vulnerable is at stake, says Graham McAll
Students are more open to reading the Bible than ever. It’s the opportunity of a lifetime for the Church
Students are one of the UK’s biggest and most influential people groups – and new research shows that, far from being hostile to Christianity, a third would read the Bible with a friend, and a quarter find scripture personally helpful. If Christians believe the gospel changes lives, it’s time to step up and help them access it
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This church leader thinks empathy can be a sin. We asked him to explain himself
Joe Rigney has authored a much-discussed new book entitled The Sin of Empathy. He defends his thesis to Sam Hailes
Thirsting for more of God? Read this book now
Strahan Coleman’s latest book addresses the issue of human longing in a new and beautiful way, says Emma Fowle. If you are thirsty for more of God’s presence, this book is a welcome repast
Kathleen Stock and Laurence Fox are testing the bounds of free speech. I know who I side with
Free speech protects great minds discussing ideas, not small minds abusing people, says George Pitcher, as he looks at the recent cases of Laurence Fox and Kathleen Stock
Churches will always be a place of sanctuary, whatever Donald Trump says
When the US authorities tried to deport Rosa del Carmen, she found refuge inside a church building - living there for two years. Isaac Villegas’ decision to provide sanctuary for an undocumented immigrant may have been politically controversial, but he believes it was line with historic Christian beliefs
Bad Bunny, good gospel: The lessons I’m learning from this Puerto Rican rapper
Bad Bunny’s latest album speaks of his proud Puerto Rican heritage. For pastor Johnny Rivera, it was a reminder that his allegiance is to Christ, and he will always be proud to live under God’s banner
God doesn’t expect us to forgive people who haven’t repented
Letting go of bitterness is not the same as forgiving someone, says Dr David Instone-Brewer
This man is carrying a giant cross around Cornwall. I followed him to find out why
Having followed Lindsay Hamon and his giant twelve-foot wooden cross around Cornwall, Emma Fowle reflects on the powerful lessons on evangelism she’s learned from his unusual act of public witness
Finding God in atheist arguments
Can faith be strengthened by its fiercest critics? Christopher Gasson thinks so. He once invited Christian teenagers to study four of the most influential atheist books. Now, as a new survey presents both welcome and challenging news for the future of the Church, he wants all Christians to take a closer look at Neitzsche, Dawkins and co
Do you feel seen? I'm learning to seek validation in God's gaze
Being seen by the Father was enough for Jesus. It should be for us too, says Gemma Hunt
4 extraordinary churches
Forget stained-glass windows and high ceilings. From barges to nightclubs, here are four unusual churches bringing faith to unexpected places
Elle Limebear: ‘I want to rebuke this idea of us being an anxious generation’
After a life-long battle with anxiety, worship leader Elle Limebear is showing fear the door. As she releases her boldest music to date, the daughter of Delirious? frontman Martin Smith opens up about prophetic words, how she accidentally rewrote her father’s classic worship song and what touring the world is really like
The Gospel is owed great filmmaking — The King of Kings delivers
Faith-based filmmaking is often a choice between maintaining the integrity of message and the quality and focus on artistry. Yet Angel Studios’ The King of Kings, defies this dilemma, says Max Avard. This ambitious animation of the four Gospels proves there doesn’t need to be a trade off
3 reasons why every Christian should learn a biblical language
A basic language course on Hebrew or Greek can transform your understanding of scripture and ultimately the world, says Dr Jonathan Rowlands
Attention spans are shortening and ADHD awareness is increasing. Should we do church differently?
Our ability to concentrate has been universally diminished by technology, and that’s just one of a complex range of interweaving factors – including ADHD – that means many of us are struggling to maintain attention. Does the way we do church need a radical rethink, or is this merely a question of self-discipline?
Jesus tells us not to fear. How does that work?
Life is full of fears - aging, death, and a world in turmoil. But Easter declares that Jesus has conquered the greatest fear of all, giving us hope beyond the grave, says Jeff Lucas
Should I be Catholic or Protestant?
Tom Wright gives his answer to a reader’s question
‘Debt nearly broke me. God got us through’
Having been a carer from a young age, Paul Helsby was used to relying on himself. But when a stroke almost took everything from him and the debt mounted up, he was forced to turn to God
Christians are the most persecuted religious group in the world. Why is the media silent?
Stories of Christians being persecuted around the world rarely make the headlines in the mainstream media. Heather Tomlinson investigates why
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