Why does an ordinary glass crack when boiling water is poured into it? Its because of the pressure caused by the difference in temperature between the inside and the outside. The structural integrity of the object cannot bear this scale of difference. It’s a good metaphor for the human need for integrity. When there is… Continue reading Cheap grace & the lie of love without cost
Category: Theology
Why you should watch ‘The Chosen’
In recent weeks I have loved watching the series The Chosen, a brilliantly produced series about Jesus and his core group of followers. Depth and quality I have always found dramatic adaptations of the Bible helpful. The gospel narratives are very lean and allow for plenty of imaginative speculation about people's back stories, motivations and… Continue reading Why you should watch ‘The Chosen’
A gateway to humanity’s deepest needs: security and purpose
Jesus used many ordinary and everyday illustrations to convey truth. But his sheep / shepherd metaphors are probably some of the most well-known. Sheep are vulnerable and need places to gather which provide safety and protection. They are also prone to panic and a herd mentality. They need experienced guides they trust to help… Continue reading A gateway to humanity’s deepest needs: security and purpose
A spirituality for reality: saying what we mean and meaning what we say
Adapted from a talk at ‘Beer and Theology’ at the Angel Pub, Rotherhithe on 17/2/23 I like both beer and theology. Whilst I have seen plenty of problems associated with alcohol addiction, I have always appreciated the good things that beer can bring. A few drinks can give us ‘Dutch courage’ to be more real… Continue reading A spirituality for reality: saying what we mean and meaning what we say
Kindness, compassion & forgiveness
In my church, we are in the middle of a 40 Days of Prayer which has involved daily 3 minute videos done by different members of the church and posted on YouTube every morning. Its the kind of project that would have been really complicated a few years back but now is made relatively straightforward… Continue reading Kindness, compassion & forgiveness
Reflecting God’s generous justice
I want to tell you about two inspiring people I have got to know over the last few years through my work. Pastor Alex in Tottenham The first is Alex Gyesi (pictured left), Pastor of Highway to Holiness, a Pentecostal church in Tottenham, North London. Back in 2009 the church was growing but Pastor Alex,… Continue reading Reflecting God’s generous justice
The original foster care story at the heart of Christmas – by Ian Butcher
This year’s John Lewis Christmas advert shows a family preparing to welcome a teenager into their home as foster carers. The foster father’s attempts to learn to skateboard are part of his preparation for the arrival of a teenager into their home. This focus on the foster father is welcome. Approximately 40% of foster carers… Continue reading The original foster care story at the heart of Christmas – by Ian Butcher
The Marmite Apostle: Making sense of Paul – by Stephen Kuhrt
In 1902 Marmite came into existence when it was discovered that brewer’s yeast could be made into an edible form. Its richness of Vitamin B helped increased its popularity. The most fascinating aspect of Marmite, however, has been its marketing. In the mid-1990s, its distinctive flavour led to the genius decision to promote it through… Continue reading The Marmite Apostle: Making sense of Paul – by Stephen Kuhrt
Beliefs + Action = Faith
I saw this quote shared on social media yesterday: Reading the quote provoked me go back to the Sermon on the Mount and read it right through (Matthew 5-7). By my judgement this statement is accurate. The longest continuous section of Jesus’ teaching in the Bible is indeed incredibly action-oriented. The priority of action The… Continue reading Beliefs + Action = Faith
Getting the most out of Halloween – by Stephen Kuhrt
Some believe the Church should have nothing to do with Halloween. They see as a rather horrible celebration of evil which is a bad influence on children. Others believe that the Church needs to chill out and realise how daft it is to put a downer on a bit of harmless fun. The ironic thing… Continue reading Getting the most out of Halloween – by Stephen Kuhrt
Grace + Truth 