psephizo.com

Generated by All in One SEO v4.9.8, this is an llms.txt file, used by LLMs to index the site.

# Psephizo

scholarship. serving. ministry.

## Sitemaps

- [XML Sitemap](https://www.psephizo.com/sitemap.xml): Contains all public & indexable URLs for this website.

## Posts

- [What does it mean to 'love God with your mind'?](https://www.psephizo.com/life-ministry/what-does-it-mean-to-love-god-with-your-mind/) - Is Christian faith about an affective encounter with God, or about becoming convinced about the case for Christianity? You will immediately be crying 'False dichotomy!'—but it is worth reflecting on the balance between these two ideas in contemporary expressions of faith. There was a time when the tradition of rational enquiry was most influential, but
- [Staying faithful under pressure in Matt 10](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/staying-faithful-under-pressure-in-matt-10/) - The gospel reading for Trinity 2 in Year A continues to work through Jesus' teaching on mission in Matthew 10, but has jumped across from the specifics of his sending out the Twelve to more general teaching about being faithful under pressure. It is easy to see that Matthew has here drawn together teaching of
- [The pattern and practice of ministry in Matthew 9 to 10 video discussion](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/the-pattern-and-practice-of-ministry-in-matthew-9-to-10-video-discussion/) - After the detours in Luke-Acts and John for the series of feasts around Ascension, Pentecost, and Trinity, the lectionary finally brings us back to the Gospel according to Matthew for the Second Sunday of Trinity in Year A! The reading set, Matt 9.35–10.8, is slightly odd, in that it bridges from one section of Matthew,
- [How can we encourage deeper learning in the local church?](https://www.psephizo.com/life-ministry/how-can-we-encourage-deeper-learning-in-the-local-church/) - Whenever I have visited the US, many of the churches I have been to have had a very different pattern of meeting on Sunday mornings. Instead of having two services of worship, they have often had a range of teaching classes first, with perhaps three or four options for people to choose from, followed by a
- [How often did Jesus visit Jerusalem? Why does this matter?](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/how-often-did-jesus-visit-jerusalem-why-does-this-matter/) - One of the obvious differences in chronology between John's gospel and the 'Synoptics' (Matthew, Mark and Luke) is that John gives an account of Jesus in Jerusalem on five different occasions, two during a Passover (John 2.13, 12.12), one during an unnamed festival (John 5.1), once for Succoth (Booths) from John 7 to John 10,
- [The Church of England's problem with antisemitism](https://www.psephizo.com/life-ministry/the-church-of-englands-problem-with-antisemitism/) - This week, the Archbishop of Canterbury is visiting Israel/Palestine and meeting with Palestinian Christians there, who have made a plea for churches in the West to support them and campaign for peace in the region. For reasons I will explain below, I think this visit, like the earlier one by Rachel Treweek, Graham Usher, and
- [The disciples are the presence of Jesus in the world in Matthew 10](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/the-disciples-are-the-presence-of-jesus-in-the-world-in-matthew-10/) - The gospel read for Trinity 4 in Year A of Matt 10.40–42 is perhaps the strangest choice in the whole lectionary—at only three verses! (The lectionary epistle is Romans 6.12–23; the video discussion for that is here, and the video discussion for Matt 10 is here. Both are included at the end of this article.)
- [Not under law but under grace in Romans 6 video discussion](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/not-under-law-but-under-grace-in-romans-6-video-discussion/) - For Trinity 4 we continue reading in Romans 6. Paul continues to anticipate objections to his radical claims about the freedom that we now have in Christ. To do so, he draws parallels between our old way of life and new life in Christ. Whereas we were slaves to sin, we are now slaves to
- [Why we need to be reading printed Bibles](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/why-we-need-to-be-reading-printed-bibles/) - It's not uncommon in churches, when the time comes for the Bible reading, to see people reach not for a printed pew Bible, but for their phones, to read the Bible on a phone app. Since the pandemic, people have become even more nervous about picking up a printed Bible in church—despite the lack of
- [Visit Greece in the footsteps of St Paul in April 2027](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/visit-greece-in-the-footsteps-of-st-paul-in-april-2027/) - I am planning to lead a study trip to Greece in the footsteps of St Paul, from Tuesday 20th to Thursday 29th April 2027 inclusive visiting Thessaloniki, Philippi, Berea, Meteroa, Delphi, Corinth, and Athens. It is a great time of year to go, as the weather is warm but not too hot, the sites are
- [Thinking Christianly about smart phones](https://www.psephizo.com/life-ministry/thinking-christianly-about-smart-phones/) - The Government's proposed 'ban' on smart phones raises some vital issues about how as Christians we think about technology. What is actually at issue here? There are questions of young people having access to unsuitable content, and what screen time does to their thinking. But there are also issues about power and influence on the
- [How does Jesus help us stay faithful under pressure in Matthew 10?](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/how-does-jesus-help-us-stay-faithful-under-pressure-in-matthew-10/) - The gospel reading for Trinity 3 in Year A is Matthew 10.24–39—we continue to work through Jesus' teaching on mission in Matthew 10, but the lectionary has jumped across from the specifics of his sending out the Twelve (last week in Matthew 9.35–10.8) to more general teaching about being faithful under pressure. (You can find
- [Baptised into new life in Christ in Romans 6 video discussion](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/baptised-into-new-life-in-christ-in-romans-6-video-discussion/) - In Romans 6, Paul uses the actions of baptism (going down into the waters of death, coming up to breathe the air of new life) to explain our new status in resurrection life. Underlying this is Paul's eschatology—when we are in Christ, we begin to live the new life of the age to come. This
- [Should the Church be saving the planet, or saving people?](https://www.psephizo.com/life-ministry/should-the-church-be-saving-the-planet-or-saving-people/) - Sir Paul Marshall, the owner of GB News, has apparently committed the unforgivable sin. Instead of seeking to save the planet from global warming, he has contributed money to the seemingly lesser cause of actually seeing people saved by coming to faith in Jesus. The co-owner of GB News, a British TV channel accused of
- [The calling and sending of the twelve apostles in Matthew 9 and 10](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/the-calling-and-sending-of-the-twelve-apostles-in-matthew-9-and-10/) - At last! After the detours in Luke-Acts and John for the series of feasts around Ascension, Pentecost, and Trinity, the lectionary finally brings us back to the Gospel according to Matthew for Trinity 2 in Year A! Whew! The reading set, Matt 9.35–10.8, is slightly odd, in that it bridges from one section of Matthew,
- [Peace, hope, and the love of God in Romans 5 video discussion](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/peace-hope-and-the-love-of-god-in-romans-5-video-discussion/) - The epistle for Trinity 2 is the same as it was for Lent 3, Romans 5.1–8, so I link here the video discussion we previously recorded. The gospel is Jesus' calling and sending the Twelve into the harvest field in Matthew 9.35–10.8. In Romans 5, Paul effectively sets out his stall for the second main
- [Henry Nowak, racial justice, and the Church of England](https://www.psephizo.com/life-ministry/henry-nowak-racial-justice-and-the-church-of-england/) - The columns of our newspapers and our feeds on social media have been filled with the debate about the political issues raised by the tragic murder of Southampton student Henry Nowak. Nowak was stabbed five times by Vickrum Digwa in December 2025, and Digwa was convicted this week. The case has raised emotive issues—but before
- [The prophetic proclamation of God as Father, Son, and Holy Spirit](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/the-prophetic-proclamation-of-god-as-father-son-and-holy-spirit/) - Gerry Lynch writes: Starting in 1972, the animal psychologist Francine Patterson began to teach an infant gorilla named Koko a modified form of American Sign Language. Patterson claimed Koko could sign a thousand words and understand twice that number in English. I remember seeing Koko speaking on children’s programmes when I was a kid, where
- [Barnabas: key to the missionary work of the Spirit in Acts 11](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/barnabas-key-to-the-missionary-work-of-the-spirit-in-acts-11/) - The first Sunday after Trinity (formerly known as Pentecost 2) is also often used to celebrate the feast of St Barnabas, who was responsible for receiving, encouraging, and working with the apostle Saul/Paul. In our lectionary reading, Acts 11.19–30, he performs a vital role in encouraging the believers in Antioch and advocating for them to
- [Helen King's motion for General Synod: a help or a hindrance?](https://www.psephizo.com/sexuality-2/helen-kings-motion-for-general-synod-a-help-or-a-hindrance/) - This July, in the final session of this quinquennium, General Synod is due to debate a Private Members Motion from Helen King suggesting that there are no fundamental objections to committed same-sex relationships. Because of its timing, and the ambiguity of its wording, some have argued it must be opposed. Andrew Goddard here assesses the
- [Faith that receives grace in Romans 4 video discussion](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/faith-that-receives-grace-in-romans-4/) - The epistle for Trinity 1 in Year A is Romans 4.13–25. Many people are put off preaching on Romans, and Paul's language here is dense and compressed. Yet the central message is this: salvation is not the result of a contract, in which we exchange God's grace for our obedience. It is a gift that
- [What is prophecy?](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/what-is-prophecy/) - I write a quarterly column for Preach Magazine, and for this next edition I have written an article on the nature of prophecy in Old and New Testaments. This is my draft—any comments welcome. Prophecy forms a substantial part of the Bible—but there is much debate about the question of prophecy today, and how contemporary
- [Is the Church of England pastoral and not missional?](https://www.psephizo.com/life-ministry/is-the-church-of-england-pastoral-and-not-missional/) - Angela Tilby, in her weekly column in the Church Times, has claimed that the Church of England is pastoral and not missional. But she can only do this by being highly selective from the ordinal, from the text of John 10, and from the Church's own theology of mission. Angela Tilby is a retired Canon
- [Standing firm in 1 Peter 4 and 5 video discussion](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/standing-firm-in-1-peter-4-and-5-video-discussion/) - The lectionary reading for Easter 7 in Year A is split over two chapters in 1 Peter: 1 Peter 4.12-14; 5.6-11. The first part returns to the question of suffering, and both connects with previous teaching on suffering, and adds in new striking dimensions, in particular the mention of the Spirit. The second part includes
- [Jesus' prayer to the Father in John 17](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/jesus-prayer-to-the-father-in-john-17/) - The lectionary reading for Easter 7, the last Sunday of the Easter Season before Pentecost, is the first part of the ‘great prayer’ of Jesus in John 17.1–11. The lectionary divides the chapter into three parts over Years A, B and C, which either assumes that preachers and people have a good memory from year
- [How can we minister in deprived areas?](https://www.psephizo.com/reviews/how-can-we-minister-in-deprived-areas/) - John Root offers this review of Jonathan Macy Sowing Seeds with Songs of Joy: Growing God’s Garden in Forgotten Places. Jonathan Macy’s book began as a 13,000 word position paper for the Church of England Evangelical Council on Privilege, Class and Poverty, which he has extended into the present book looking at the response to
- [Ascension Day: the key moment of the New Testament?](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/ascension-day-the-key-moment-of-the-new-testament/) - What would you identify as the climax and completion of Jesus' life and ministry? Surprisingly, this is not a trivial question. One of the key differences between John and the synoptic gospels is that, where the synoptics portray the crucifixion as a necessary but incomplete act on the way to the resurrection, John portrays it
- [Is the Church of England growing at last?](https://www.psephizo.com/life-ministry/is-the-church-of-england-growing-at-last/) - This week, the Church of England released headline figures for church attendance in 2025. This is collated from the parish returns done in October each year, and Ken Eames and the statistics team in Church House do a great job. Before plunging into the numbers and offering some reflection, it is worth addressing the common
- [The spiritual gifts in 1 Corinthians 12](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/the-spiritual-gifts-in-1-corinthians-12/) - The lectionary New Testament readings for the Pentecost, this coming Sunday, are 1 Corinthians 12.3b-13, Acts 2.1-21, and John 20.19-23—but the first or second reading must be from Acts. So I suspect most churches will read Acts and 1 Corinthians 12. Written commentary on Acts 2 can be found here, and video discussion here. Here
- [The end-times Spirit comes at Pentecost in Acts 2](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/the-end-times-spirit-comes-at-pentecost-in-acts-2/) - This Sunday is the feast of Pentecost, fifty days from Passover (hence the name), in the Jewish calendar the festival of Shavuot ('weeks'), one of the three great pilgrim festivals (with Passover and Sukkot, 'Tabernacles'). It was the beginning of the wheat harvest, but also celebrated the giving of the Torah on Sinai, and so
- [Who should read the Bible in church?](https://www.psephizo.com/life-ministry/who-should-read-the-bible-in-church/) - Who should read the Bible aloud in church as part of our services? Should the preacher do it, or someone else? Is it more important that it is done well, or that our readers are representative of the community? How are they perceived beyond the church, and does that matter? In an online discussion group
- [When and from where is Jesus 'coming on the clouds'?](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/when-and-from-where-is-jesus-coming-on-the-clouds/) - The phrase 'coming on the clouds' is commonly misread as referring to Jesus' return at the end of the age—when reading it in context and noticing its source in Daniel 7 paints a very different picture. I have spent the week at Lee Abbey in Devon (if you have not been, you should go!), teaching
- [The Trinity, Matthew 28, and 2 Corinthians 13 video discussion](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/the-trinity-matthew-28-and-2-corinthians-13-video-discussion/) - Should we preach on the Trinity on Trinity Sunday? The answer is less obvious than you might think! And what do we make of the triadic formula in Matt 28.19? Was it a later addition or part of the teaching of Jesus? And how should we read the five imperatives from Paul in 2 Cor
- [The Trinity, Matthew 28, and the Great Commission](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/the-trinity-matthew-28-and-the-great-commission/) - The Sunday gospel lectionary reading for Trinity Sunday in this Year A is Matt 28.16–20. As with the readings in Years B and C, it is short and compact. (See below for commentary on this, and here for video discussion of it, and here for video discussion of the epistle from 2 Cor 13, both
- [What does Jesus have against us?](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/what-does-jesus-have-against-us/) - Each year, during November, the Morning Prayer weekday lectionary takes us through the first few chapters of the Book of Revelation. In chapters 2 and 3, we have messages to the ekklesiae in seven cities of Roman Asia, the west end of what we now know as Turkey—and I happen to be sitting in one of those cities as I write, having just led a study tour around the seven. There are some important and challenging things to note about these messages. First, these are not 'letters' as they are commonly called, since they do not have the features of first-century letter-writing. In fact, the whole of Revelation is a letter, with part of the introduction looking very similar to Pauline letters elsewhere in the NT. There is some debate in scholarship about how best to characterise this section, but the most persuasive suggestion is that these are royal proclamations from the risen Jesus who, having been raised, ascended and vindicated, exercises royal power from the throne he shares with the One seated there. And they are not written to 'churches' in the way we often think—institutions with buildings and leadership structures. They are addressed to the collective (and occasionally gathered) new Israel of God in Jesus. Secondly, as is easy to see, the seven messages are striking in their consistent structure of seven main elements, including opening and closing phrases which are repeated word for word:
- [Loser! The Art of the Insult](https://www.psephizo.com/life-ministry/loser-the-art-of-the-insult/) - Mike Starkey writes: During the 2018 Centennial of World War I, Donald Trump was scheduled to visit the Aisle-Marne American Cemetery in France. The relentless rain made helicopter travel to the Cemetery impossible, but aides informed the President he could be driven instead. Trump’s response, according to accounts from a senior Defence Department official, was that he didn’t want to visit the cemetery, as it was ‘filled with losers’. On the same trip, Trump reportedly said the 1,800 US marines killed in the World War I Battle of Belleau Wood were ‘suckers’ for being killed. When reports of Trump’s dismissive language about dead American service personnel appeared in the Atlantic magazine, a media storm erupted. Trump denied the reports, but in 2023 his former Chief of Staff John Kelly confirmed that Trump had, in fact, used both slurs on the French trip. What is beyond doubt is that the language of losers and winners has long been Trump's characteristic benchmark for evaluating humanity, the trumpian equivalent of Jesus’s sheep and goats. In interviews, social media posts and rally speeches, loser has been his insult of choice.
- [Obedient love, and the Spirit as ‘another Helper’ in John 14](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/obedient-love-and-the-spirit-as-another-helper-in-john-14/) - The lectionary gospel reading for Easter 6 in Year A is the next section of John 14.15–21. The split of the passage for the two Sundays is a little odd, in that last week's was twice the length, and contained three massive issues to address! This week's is much shorter and more straightforward. (The lectionary
- [The Wisdom of the Nairobi-Cairo Proposals: A Response to Paul Avis](https://www.psephizo.com/life-ministry/the-wisdom-of-the-nairobi-cairo-proposals-a-response-to-paul-avis/) - Andrew Goddard writes: There are multiple visions for the future of the Anglican Communion. One, being offered by Gafcon, is found in the Abuja Affirmation. Another is found in the Nairobi-Cairo Proposals (NCPs) developed by the Inter-Anglican Standing Commission on Unity, Faith, and Order (IASCUFO), which will be considered by the Anglican Consultative Council (ACC)
- [Is church bureaucracy demonic?](https://www.psephizo.com/life-ministry/is-church-bureaucracy-demonic/) - Former Archbishop of Canterbury Rowan Williams has made a rather startling remark about Church bureaucracy. He was in a conversation at Unherd about evil and the demonic in culture—especially “the erosion of standards of truthfulness in public life and the normalisation of violence in word and deed”. And he was also worried about a church
- [Giving an account of our hope in 1 Peter 3 video discussion](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/giving-an-account-of-our-hope-in-1-peter-3-video-discussion/) - The lectionary readings for Easter 6 in Year A are 1 Peter 3.13-end and John 14.15-21. The reading from 1 Peter 3 includes well-known and practical advice on how to 'give an account of the hope that is in you' which has obvious application today. But the second half includes what is perhaps the most
- [Donald Trump's Bible Reading and the Blessing of God](https://www.psephizo.com/life-ministry/donald-trumps-bible-reading-and-the-blessing-of-god/) - Yesterday, US President Donald Trump took part in 'America Reads the Bible,' a week-long event where the whole Bible is read in public, including by well-known politicians and church leaders. The aim of this movement seems laudable enough: Just as Ezra read the Word aloud to the people of Israel (Nehemiah 8:1–3), awakening revival and
- [What are the 'place prepared' and the 'greater works' in John 14?](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/what-are-the-place-prepared-and-the-greater-works-in-john-14/) - The lectionary readings for Easter 5 are 1 Peter 2.2-10 and John 14.1-14. You can see the video discussion of the reading from 1 Peter here, and at the end of this piece. When I read this text, I cannot help but feel it has a slightly strange, dream-like quality to it, and I think
- [Growing as Living Stones in 1 Peter 2 video discussion](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/growing-as-living-stones-in-1-peter-2-video-discussion/) - The lectionary readings for Easter 5 are 1 Peter 2.2-10 and John 14.1-14. In 1 Peter 2, we jump back to before last week's reading (!) in order to line up with discussion about places to abide in John 14. This well-known passage is saturated with OT references, both implicit and explicit, which we need
- [Visit Istanbul and the Seven Cities of Revelation in April-May 2026](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/visit-istanbul-and-the-seven-cities-of-revelation-in-april-may-2026/) - PLEASE NOTE: I am very sorry—but the trip is now full for 2026. If you would like to be added to a reserve list in the case of a cancellation (there are four places that still need final confirmation), or you would like to be sent information for the 2027 trip when plans are available,
- [Jesus is our good shepherd in John 10](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/jesus-is-our-good-shepherd-in-john-10/) - The lectionary gospel readers for the Fourth Sunday of Easter take the three parts of John 10 in turn; being in Year A, we are reading the first ten verses. You can watch the video discussion of the passage here, and it is linked below. The epistle is 1 Peter 2.19–25, a challenge passage both
- [What is marriage for?](https://www.psephizo.com/preaching-2/what-is-marriage-for/) - In our church we have a Spanish-speaking congregation, who join in on Sundays (where we have songs and readings in different languages and simultaneous translation) but who also have their own Spanish-language service on a Tuesday evening. We have been given funding for a Spanish speaking pastor, but also seek to integrate ministry across the
- [Enduring suffering like Jesus in 1 Peter 2 video discussion](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/enduring-suffering-like-jesus-in-1-peter-2-video-discussion/) - The lectionary epistle for Easter 4 is 1 Peter 2.19–end. Peter sees out a challenge call for us to endure suffering following the example of Jesus. But to make proper sense of this, we need to read it in its context, and notice the different language that Peter uses of us as slaves of God,
- [The impartiality of God's love in 1 Peter 1 video discussion](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/the-impartiality-of-gods-love-in-1-peter-1-video-discussion/) - The lectionary epistle for Easter 3 in Year A is 1 Peter 1.17–23. In this section, Peter begins by reflecting on the significant of the impartiality of God's love—he is not like a king who shows favouritism to some, by lifting their bowed face to look at him, but treats all equally—as Peter discovered in
- [What can we learn from Herod Antipas?](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/what-can-we-learn-from-herod-antipas/) - John Hudghton writes: Jesus and the Rat King I am sometimes shocked at how little knowledge there is amongst clergy and congregations of the geopolitical context of Jesus’ ministry. Maybe there is too much busy-ness and too much to read, but it does strike me that there is more awareness of subsequent theology and ecclesiastical
- [Meeting Jesus on the road to Emmaus in Luke 24](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/meeting-jesus-on-the-road-to-emmaus-in-luke-24/) - The lectionary readings for the Third Sunday in Easter ignore the particular gospel for the year, and instead cycle round Luke 24 and John 21: in Year B we have the second half of Luke 24, Jesus meeting the group of frightened disciples; in Year C, the miraculous catch of fish in John 21; and
- [The gender of Jesus in the Book of Revelation](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/the-gender-of-jesus-in-the-book-of-revelation/) - At the Society of Biblical Literature annual conference in Atlanta in 2015, I attended several papers on the Book of Revelation. The one that I have continued to think about—and which provoked most merriment when I reported it on Facebook—looked at the question of whether Jesus has breasts in Revelation 1.13 (given by Sarah Shier
- [Truth, history, the Church Commissioners, and reparative justice](https://www.psephizo.com/life-ministry/truth-history-the-church-commissioners-and-reparative-justice/) - Professor Richard Dale writes: KICKING IN THE CATHEDRAL DOOR How the Church Commissioners relied on bogus history to denounce their predecessors and vilify their own Church It is over three years since the Church Commissioners published their controversial report on the Church’s links to the slave trade. Since then critics have challenged the Commissioners’ historical
- [Having our doubts about Thomas in John 20](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/having-our-doubts-about-thomas-in-john-20/) - The Sunday gospel lectionary reading for the Second Sunday in Easter is John 20.19–31, which includes Jesus' encounter with so-called 'doubting Thomas'. It is the set reading for this week in all three years of the lectionary, so we know it well—and need to reflect on it if we are going to preach effectively on
- [The experience of Easter](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/the-experience-of-easter/) - He’s gone. The, the tomb….the stone’s rolled away! Jesus....He’s not there….I’ve just run the whole way back…. I had to tell you. This is mad. Completely crazy. You’re all looking at me like I’ve lost my mind. Maybe I have. Just… give me a second. Before I say anything else, you need to know who’s
- [Do the gospels contradict each other on Holy Week?](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/do-the-gospels-contradict-each-other-on-holy-week/) - I am reposting again this year the article I post most years in Easter, on the question of whether the gospel accounts contradict each other in their schedule of the first Holy Week. I think it is worth meditating on each year... Have you ever sat and read through the gospel accounts of Passion Week,
- [The future of the Anglican Communion? part 2](https://www.psephizo.com/life-ministry/the-future-of-the-anglican-communion-part-2/) - Andrew Goddard writes: Twenty years ago, in June 2006, Archbishop Rowan Williams wrote in his significant and still-worth-reading reflection, “The Challenge and Hope of Being an Anglican Today” There is no way in which the Anglican Communion can remain unchanged by what is happening at the moment. Neither the liberal nor the conservative can simply
- [Empty tomb and risen Jesus in John 20](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/empty-tomb-and-risen-jesus-in-john-20/) - The discovery by two disciples of the empty tomb, and Mary Magdelene's encounter with Jesus, in John 20.1–18, is one of the main options for the gospel reading for Easter Sunday in Year A (the alternative is Matt 28.1–10). And it is, in many ways, the most appealing choice, because of its polished literary form,
- [The problems with Project Spire: presentations](https://www.psephizo.com/life-ministry/the-problems-with-project-spire-presentations/) - Is the Church Commissioners' proposal for a 'reparations' fund (Project Spire) for 'Justice, Healing, and Repair' based on historical facts? Will it 'repair', or in fact divide us further? Is there a clear ethical argument, and have they followed clear and transparent processes in proposing this? The two videos here comprises four addresses given at
- [What has happened to the Quiet Revival?](https://www.psephizo.com/life-ministry/what-has-happened-to-the-quiet-revival/) - In April last year, Bible Society published a report called The Quiet Revival, and I interviewed the main researcher behind it, Rhiannon McAleer. The report made a number of claims, based on research by YouGov, including both a significant change in attitude amongst young people, and a significant change in church attendance. It provoked much
- [The Future of the Anglican Communion? part 1](https://www.psephizo.com/life-ministry/the-future-of-the-anglican-communion-part-1/) - Summary: This article analyses the significant developments emerging from the March 2026 GAFCON gathering in Nigeria arguing that a key feature of its Abuja Affirmation is not what it includes, but what it omits: any reference to the Global South Fellowship of Anglican Churches (GSFA). This “is…a significant missing piece of the complex Anglican Communion
- [The ‘triumphal’ entry on Palm Sunday in Matthew 21](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/the-triumphal-entry-on-palm-sunday-in-matthew-21/) - It is always a relief when we celebrate Palm Sunday from Matthew (as we do in this Year A in the lectionary) or Mark's account (next year). Luke 19.36 in his account talks only about the garments, and does not mention palm branches, so in those years we have to call it Garment Sunday (which
- [The humility of Jesus in Philippians 2 video discussion](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/the-humility-of-jesus-in-philippians-2-video-discussion/) - The NT epistle reading for Palm Sunday in this Year 3 is the so-called 'Christ hymn' in Phil 2.5–11. This is a fitting parallel to the account of Jesus' non-triumphal entry into Jerusalem in Luke 19.28–40. The introduction to this 'hymn' is also very carefully poetically structured, which suggests that the whole passage is by
- [The trouble with the 'inclusive' Jesus](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/the-trouble-with-the-inclusive-jesus/) - In the Synod debates on sexuality and marriage last February, I started playing 'inclusive Jesus' bingo. How many times would speeches protesting against our current doctrine and urging change mention that Jesus (or the gospel) was 'inclusive'? I had to stop, since I ran out of cards because I was marking them so fast. In
- [Holey Exegesis: Schreiner versus Sprinkle on women and authority in Scripture](https://www.psephizo.com/gender-2/holey-exegesis-schreiner-versus-sprinkle-on-women-and-authority-in-scripture/) - Andrew Bartlett, author of Men and Women in Christ: Fresh Light from the Biblical Texts (IVP Books, 2019) writes: New Testament scholar Preston Sprinkle has created quite a stir with his new book, From Genesis to Junia: An Honest Search for What the Bible Really Says About Women in Leadership. Formerly ‘complementarian’, Sprinkle has changed
- [Lazarus is raised by Jesus in John 11](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/lazarus-is-raised-by-jesus-in-john-11/) - This Sunday, Lent 5 in Year A, we come to the last of our for explorations of Jesus' encounters with individuals that formed a catechumate in the early church in her raising of Lazarus in John 11.1–45. Next week, on Palm Sunday, we will return to our gospel of the year, Matthew, in the lead in
- [The two realms of flesh and Spirit in Romans 8 video discussion](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/the-two-realms-of-flesh-and-spirit-in-romans-8-video-discussion/) - The lectionary epistle for Lent 5 in Year A is Romans 8.6–11, a slightly odd choice in cutting out verse 5, or even in missing verses 1 to 4. Paul is expounding here different aspects of the two 'realms' of flesh and the Spirit, corresponding to 'this age' and 'the age to come', this fallen
- [Should churches look inwards or outwards?](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/should-churches-look-inwards-or-outwards/) - I write a quarterly column for Preach magazine, in which I explore a significant word, phrase, or idea in the Bible, or a theme or section of Scripture, and the ideas that it expresses. At the end of this piece I list the previous articles I have written for them. Here I explore the question
- [What is the story of Sarah Mullally?](https://www.psephizo.com/reviews/what-is-the-story-of-sarah-mullaly/) - Andrew Atherstone has continued the tradition of being the biographer of our archbishops. He published two on Justin Welby, and has brought his proficient pen to bear on Sarah Mullally, producing his volume in remarkably short time—from a standing start when her appointment was announced (October 3rd 2025) he has produced this biography in time
- [Jesus meets the man born blind in John 9](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/jesus-meets-the-man-born-blind-in-john-9/) - For the Mothering Sunday gospel of Jesus’ presentation in Luke 2, the written commentary is here and the video discussion is here. The epistle is 2 Cor 1.3–7, and the video discussion of this passage is here (and included below). The Sunday gospel lectionary reading for Lent 4 in this Year A continues with the
- [Jesus raises Lazarus in John 11 video discussion](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/jesus-raises-lazarus-in-john-11-video-discussion/) - The gospel lectionary reading for Lent 5 in Year A is the raising of Lazarus in John 11, the last of our four encounters between Jesus and individuals in the Fourth Gospel. Join James and Ian as they explore the fascinating narrative, and reflect on its implications for our discipleship and the issues around preaching
- [Affliction, comfort, and patient endurance in 2 Cor 1 video discussion](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/affliction-comfort-and-patient-endurance-in-2-cor-1-video-discussion/) - Lent 4 is also Mothering Sunday in the calendar, and the readings for Mothering Sunday in Year A are 2 Corinthians 1.3-7 and the dedication of Jesus in Luke 2. In 2 Cor 1, Paul begins this letter by exploring the inter-relation between experience affliction (tribulation), and receiving comfort from the God of all compassion.
- [Is the war in Iran the start of Armageddon?](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/is-the-war-in-iran-the-start-of-armageddon/) - It has been reported that US troops have been told that the war in Iran is the beginning of the final Battle of Armageddon that will lead to the return of Jesus. It has come out through complaints made to the Military Religious Freedom Foundation (MRFF): One complainant, identified as a noncommissioned officer (NCO) in
- [The peace, hope, and love of God in Romans 5 video discussion](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/the-peace-hope-and-love-of-god-in-romans-5-video-discussion/) - The epistle for Lent 3 is Romans 5.1–11; the gospel is Jesus' encounter with the woman at the well in John 4. In Romans 5, Paul effectively sets out his stall for the second main section of the letter, chapters 5 to 8. This is not about the consequences of justification, so much as what
- [The woman meets Jesus by the well in John 4](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/the-woman-meets-jesus-by-the-well-in-john-4/) - The gospel lectionary reading for Lent 3 is John 4.5-42, probably the longest reading in the lectionary! The epistle is Romans 5.1–11, and you can find video discussion of that here (and linked below), and video discussion of John 4 here (and linked below as well). This gospel reading is strange contrast with readings a
- [How do you best spend £730,000?](https://www.psephizo.com/life-ministry/how-do-you-best-spend-730000/) - John Root writes: The diocese of London has been awarded a grant of £730,000 from the Church of England’s Racial Justice Unit to develop its racial justice work over a three year period. This is part of a national strategy of giving grants to address the issue. In this blog I want to question whether
- [The scriptural argument for same-sex marriage](https://www.psephizo.com/sexuality-2/the-scriptural-argument-for-same-sex-marriage/) - Tim Goode is a residentiary canon in York Minster, having previously spent all his time since ordination in 2009 in parish ministry in Southwark Diocese. Tim was elected to General Synod in 2015, and joined the Archbishops' Council in 2021, where I got to know him. He is a charming man, and we have always
- [Jesus and the bad Samaritans](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/jesus-and-the-bad-samaritans/) - What do you think if someone says “Samaritan”? John Hudghton writes: Mention the word Samaritan and your understanding may be shaped by Revd Chad Varah and the listening Samaritans in Britain. Similarly, there are numerous other charitable humanitarian organisations sharing the same name world-wide who may produce the same effect. We also know Jesus told
- [The meeting of Jesus and Nicodemus in John 3](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/the-meeting-of-jesus-and-nicodemus-in-john-3/) - The Sunday lectionary gospel reading for Lent 2 in Year A is Nicodemus' meeting with Jesus in John 3.1–17. The epistle is Romans 4.1-5 and 13-17. The video discussion of the epistle is here, and of the gospel reading from John 3 here. Both are also linked at the end. Although we are supposed to
- [Abraham as the father of Jews and Gentiles in Romans 4 video discussion](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/abraham-as-the-father-of-jews-and-gentiles-in-romans-4-video-discussion/) - The lectionary for Lent 2 in Year A is Romans 4.1-5, 13-17. The structure of Paul's argument here is complex, but the main idea is simple: Abraham is father of both Jews and Gentiles, and the order of events in his life teaches us about the nature of grace. He trusted God as was justified,
- [Taking General Synod with a pinch of salt](https://www.psephizo.com/life-ministry/taking-general-synod-with-a-pinch-of-salt/) - Last summer, with a little help, I reimagined how Synod would look to Anthony Trollope and Raymond Chandler, whom I had been reading at the time. Now that the dust has settled from Synod in London last week, it is worth reflecting with some humour on the proceedings. One of the debates on Thursday was
- [God's people, Mary, and the woman of Revelation 12](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/gods-people-mary-and-the-woman-of-revelation-12/) - Last Sunday, I was invited to preach at Oriel College, Oxford, by the Chaplain, Dr Robert Wainwright. All services in the chapel follow the Book of Common Prayer. This year is the 700th year of the foundation of the college, which was originally called House of the Blessed Mary at Oxford, and so the sermon
- [What does fasting mean?](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/what-does-fasting-mean/) - Today is the start of the liturgical season of Lent, and it has traditionally been a period of particular spiritual discipline for Christians. Though the Didache (from the end of the first century) recommends fasting for anyone preparing for baptism, this probably wasn't settled as a pattern until the Council of Nicea in 325. A
- [The wilderness temptations according to Matthew 4](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/the-wilderness-temptations-according-to-matthew-4/) - As we enter the season of Lent on Sunday, the lectionary for the First Sunday in Lent in Year A is of course Matt 4.1–11. The epistle for this Sunday is apt: Paul's contrast in Romans 5.12–19 between the power of Sin and Death at work for those who are 'in Adam' contrasted with the
- [God's amazing grace in Romans 5 video discussion](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/gods-amazing-grace-in-romans-5-video-discussion/) - The epistle for Lent 1 in Year A is Romans 5.12–19. Paul draws a series of striking contrasts between what it means to be 'in Adam', as fallen humanity under the power of Sin and Death, and what it means to be 'in Christ', given the gift of life and under the power of Grace.
- [The discussion at the end of the LLF process](https://www.psephizo.com/life-ministry/the-discussion-at-the-end-of-the-llf-process/) - Yesterday in Synod, we spent five hours (yes, five!) on what is likely to be the final debate on the Living in Love and Faith process (LLF), the Church of England's damaging and divisive debate on sexuality launched by Justin Welby in 2017. Following what was widely seen as a volte face by the House of
- [The problems with the C of E's 'reparations' project ('Spire')](https://www.psephizo.com/life-ministry/the-problems-with-the-c-of-es-reparations-project-spire/) - The Church Commissioners' response to what has allegedly been learnt about the involvement of its predecessor, the Queen Anne's Bounty (QAB), in the slave trade was first called Project Spire, and has been relabelled the Fund for Healing, Justice, and Repair. General Synod has been meeting this week, and in Questions, the first section pressed
- [What is 'transfigured' in Matthew 17?](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/what-is-transfigured-in-matthew-17/) - The lectionary gospel reading for the last Sunday before Lent in Year A, is Matt 17.1–9, Matthew's account of the Transfiguration. You can find video discussion of this commentary here and posted at the end. The epistle is Peter's account in 2 Peter 1.16–21; you can find the video discussion of that passage here and
- [Visit Istanbul and the Seven Cities of Revelation in Sept–Oct 2026](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/visit-istanbul-and-the-seven-cities-of-revelation-in-sept-oct-2026/) - Please note: this trip is now also booked up! If you would like to be on a waiting list in case of cancellations, or would like to be notified of future trips, please email our partner Steve Upton at steve@journey-africa.com. We are planning to offer a trip to Paul's Greece in April 2027, the Seven
- [The transfiguration of Jesus in 2 Peter 1 video discussion](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/the-transfiguration-of-jesus-in-2-peter-1-video-discussion/) - The lectionary epistle for the Sunday before Lent in Year A is 2 Peter 1.16–21. It is a fascinating passage, as it appears to preserve an eye-witness testimony to the transfiguration which coheres with the gospels accounts but is independent of them. From this, Peter teaches us not so much about Jesus' resurrection but about
- [Do we have safeguarding leadership in the Church of England?](https://www.psephizo.com/life-ministry/do-we-have-safeguarding-leadership-in-the-church-of-england/) - David Tudor was ordained in the Church of England, and served in Southwark Diocese in the 1980s, and then in Chelmsford Diocese from 2000, as Rector of Canvey Island. As a BBC report from a year ago notes: In 1988, David Tudor was a defendant in two criminal trials In the first trial, he was
- [Will God actually provide for our needs in Matthew 6?](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/will-god-actually-provide-for-our-needs-in-matthew-6/) - The Sunday lectionary gospel reading for the Second Sunday before Lent in Year A, is Matthew 6.25–34, a section of the so-called Sermon on the Mount. The epistle is the remarkable exposition by Paul of our hope of new creation in Romans 8.18–25—often called the pinnacle of the New Testament. The video discussion of Romans
- [Living in Love and Faith—a personal reflection](https://www.psephizo.com/sexuality-2/living-in-love-and-faith-a-personal-reflection/) - Paul Chamberlain writes: I’m a priest in the Church of England, the vicar of a parish in Portsmouth Diocese, the Area Dean of Gosport, and a member of General Synod. Same-sex attraction is part of my story, although my wife and I will celebrate our 25th wedding anniversary later this year, and we have two
- [The problem with the C of E: an open letter to Stephen Cottrell](https://www.psephizo.com/life-ministry/the-problem-with-the-c-of-e-an-open-letter-to-stephen-cottrell/) - Dear Stephen In our working relationship, I have always sought to be open and honest with you. I have also always sought to follow Jesus' teaching in Matthew 18: if you have an issue with a brother, go to him first privately, and only if he will not listen should you then go to others,
- [Why Jeremy Corbyn is just what we need](https://www.psephizo.com/life-ministry/why-jeremy-corbyn-is-just-what-we-need/) - Commentators are still adjusting to the shock of Jeremy Corbyn's election as leader of the Labour party in a greater landslide than the one that brought Tony Blair to the same position in 1994. As Nick Palmer points out, opinion on Corbyn splits into three camps: People who agree with him People who quite like the
- [Responding to Dominic Cummings](https://www.psephizo.com/life-ministry/responding-to-dominic-cummings/) - It is not often that a single story dominates everyone's online conversation—yet that is what happened over the weekend, when I found that just about all my Facebook friends were commenting on the same issue. And it is not often that the bishops of the Church of England appear to speak with one voice on
- [Longing for the new creation in Romans 8 video discussion](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/longing-for-the-new-creation-in-romans-8-video-discussion/) - The lectionary epistle for the Second Sunday before Lent is Romans 8.18–25—often called the pinnacle of the New Testament. In a theologically rich, carefully structured passage, Paul explores the hope that we long for, and with us, all creation—something that we have already begun to experience in Jesus now, but whose full realisation will come
- [How does archaeology help us read the Bible?](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/how-does-archaeology-help-us-read-the-bible/) - Cris Rogers is a vicar in East London (at All Hallows, Bow), and a friend online. He has recently been posting interesting material on the archaeological background to the Bible. So I asked him what he was doing and why—and he gave some very interesting answers! IP: You have recently been in the habit of
- [Tyndale New Testament Study Group 2026: Paul within Judaism](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/tyndale-new-testament-study-group-2026-paul-within-judaism/) - The theme for the Tyndale New Testament Study group this year is Paul within Judaism, and we are meeting from Wednesday 1st ­to Friday 3rd July 2026 at High Leigh Conference Centre in Hertfordshire, just 20 minutes north of London by train and 45 minutes from Cambridge. The subject of Paul within Judaism has been a
- [Jesus is presented in the temple in Luke 2](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/jesus-is-presented-in-the-temple-in-luke-2/) - The gospel reading for Epiphany 4 is John 2.1–11, the water into wine at the wedding in Cana (also the reading for Epiphany 3 in Year C). The written commentary for that is here and the video discussion is here. However, at this time we also celebrate the Presentation of Jesus in the temple in Jerusalem;
- [What does Jesus mean when he calls us to 'repent'?](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/what-does-jesus-mean-when-he-calls-us-to-repent/) - It is fascinating to see the way that careless readings of well-known texts keep resurfacing in different contexts. One of those relates to the central teaching of Jesus, as he begins his ministry in Galilee after John the Baptist is imprisoned: After John was put in prison, Jesus went into Galilee, proclaiming the good news
- [How the 144,000 in Rev 7 express the whole gospel](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/how-the-144000-in-rev-7-express-the-whole-gospel/) - Last week, I was doing some teaching in a local church about the Book of Revelation, and happened to put up a slide with the list of the tribes of Israel in the counting of the 144,000 in Rev 7.5–8. Someone in the congregation put up their hand: 'Why is that list of tribes different
- [Wisdom and folly in 1 Corinthians 1 video discussion](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/wisdom-and-folly-in-1-corinthians-1-video-discussion/) - The epistle for Epiphany 4 is 1 Cor 1.18—31 (the end of the chapter). Having painted the picture of the amazing things that God has done for the Corinthians in the first verses, Paul has then confronted them with their factions. He now draws on language that echoes the teaching of Jesus, and deep from
- [Jesus calls his first disciples in Matthew 4](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/jesus-calls-his-first-disciples-in-matthew-4/) - This Sunday's lectionary reading for Year A, Epiphany 3, is Matt 4.12–23. The epistle is 1 Cor 1.10–18, where Paul gets into the issues of factions and divisions. The video for that reading can be found here, and is linked at the end of this piece, as is the video on Matthew 4. The gospel
- [Factions and unity in 1 Corinthians 1 video discussion](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/factions-and-unity-in-1-corinthians-1-video-discussion/) - The lectionary epistle for Epiphany 3 in Year A is the next part of 1 Corinthians, verses 10 to 18. Having prepared his canvas in the previous verses with all the amazing things God has done for his readers, Paul now paints in the details of the problems of factionalism. He challenges the idea of
- [How John the Baptist points us to Jesus in John 1](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/how-john-the-baptist-points-us-to-jesus-in-john-1/) - For the Second Sunday of Epiphany in Year A, the readings are 1 Corinthians 1.1–9 and John 1.29–42. You can find the video discussion of the epistle here and posted at the end of the article, and the video discussion of the gospel reading here and also posted below. Here is my written commentary on
- [The Bishops on LLF: how good a diagnosis of our pain?](https://www.psephizo.com/sexuality-2/the-bishops-on-llf-how-good-a-diagnosis-of-our-pain/) - Summary: the statement from the House of Bishops is much as anticipated in terms of drawing the LLF process to a close with none of the further promised changes being introduced but putting a new process in place to report to Synod sometime between February 2027 and July 2028. There is therefore much here to
- [Gospel commentary index Lectionary Year A](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/gospel-commentary-index-lectionary-year-a/) - On this page, you can find an index to all the commentary articles on the gospel lectionary readings for the whole of Year A, together with links to the video discussions between Ian and James. The articles will be reposted with updates during the year—but they are listed here for convenience and planning ahead.
- [The grace of God in 1 Corinthians 1 video discussion](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/the-grace-of-god-in-1-corinthians-1-video-discussion/) - For the Second Sunday of Epiphany in Year A, the readings are 1 Corinthians 1.1–9 and John 1.29–42. Paul's introduction to his letter to the Corinthians offers the most remarkable affirmation of what God has already done in the lives of his writers. This is very striking given the way he is going to warn
- [Running on empty in the PLF journey?](https://www.psephizo.com/sexuality-2/running-on-empty-in-the-plf-journey/) - The following article by Andrew Goddard provides a historical overview and critique of the Church of England’s protracted and divisive struggle to implement the Prayers of Love and Faith (PLF) for same-sex couples. It argues that despite years of debate and shifting promises, the House of Bishops has largely failed to find a consensus, ultimately
- [Was Paul unclear in his teaching on sexuality?](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/was-paul-unclear-in-his-teaching-on-sexuality/) - I have been engaging on and off in the debates about sexuality and Christian discipleship since around 1978, when Buzz magazine (which eventually morphed into Christianity magazine) produced a slightly risky exploration of the issues at stake. Since then, I have noticed that the discussion has shifted ground, both in wider society and within the
- [Did Paul rename church leaders and co-workers?](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/did-paul-rename-church-leaders-and-co-workers/) - It has often been noted that, in some key respects, the emphasis of the narrative of Acts is different from what we might suppose from reading Paul's letters. Given that we can date many of Paul's letters to an early period, this raises questions about the accuracy and historicity of the account in Acts. One
- [Peter's summary of the gospel in Acts 10 video discussion](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/peters-summary-of-the-gospel-in-acts-10-video-discussion/) - The epistle for Epiphany 1, known as the Baptism of Christ, is Acts 10.34–43. It is worth preaching on rather than Matthew 3.13-end because it is such a rich and fascinating passage. Luke's account of Peter's speech is rooted in the narrative of Scripture, but also sits within Luke-Acts, echoing early chapters of Luke and
- [New Year's resolutions for the Church of England...?](https://www.psephizo.com/life-ministry/new-years-resolutions-for-the-church-of-england/) - Sarah Mullally, current bishop of London and Archbishop of Canterbury elect, gave a new year's address yesterday in which she set out some priorities for the Church of England. (It was quite widely reported, in The Times, BBC, LBC and elsewhere, though I could not find the text anywhere on her own website or that
- [History (and myth?) in the Epiphany in Matthew 2](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/history-and-myth-in-the-epiphany-in-matthew-2/) - Whilst everyone is recovering from Christmas, and bracing for the coming of the New Year, I have not merely leftovers but a feast of resources for preaching this coming Sunday! The gospel reading is from John 1, either the first 18 verses, or verses 10 to 18. The written commentary is here, and the video
- [Paul's cascade of praise in Ephesians 1 video discussion](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/pauls-cascade-of-praise-in-ephesians-1-video-discussion/) - The lectionary epistle reading for Christmas 2 in Year A is Ephesians 1.3–14 (though it is worth starting reading from verse 1). Although broken up in English translations, this forms one long sentence in Greek—of 202 words! It is likely the longest Greek sentence in the New Testament. In what is effectively an extended cascade
- [Was Jesus raised in a 'poor' family?](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/was-jesus-raised-in-a-poor-family/) - It is fascinating to see the way that traditions have grown up around the celebration of Christmas, and how many of those traditions are not merely absent from the Bible, but in fact contradict not only the content of the Bible, but the heart of its message. Somehow, where the birth narratives in Scripture are
- [The baptism of Jesus in Matthew 3 as fulfilment of the Old Testament](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/the-baptism-of-jesus-in-matthew-3-as-fulfilment-of-the-old-testament/) - This Sunday's lectionary reading in Year A is the baptism of Jesus from Matt 3.13–17. It is a short and compact reading, and needs careful reading in its own right. But it only fully makes sense if we know something of the Old Testament backstory and can, as 'insiders', spot the key allusions to it.
- [The flight of the holy family and fury of Herod in Matt 2 video discussion](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/the-flight-of-the-holy-family-and-fury-of-herod-in-matt-2-video-discussion/) - The reading for Christmas 1, which is also the Feast of the Holy Innocents, is Matthew 2.13–18. This texts raises fascinating questions about history, how Matthew's account here fits with the rest of his gospel, and what use he makes of Old Testament quotations. Is there any plausibility to the claim that he composed this
- [What does Joseph bring to the story of Jesus’ origins in Matthew 1?](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/what-does-joseph-bring-to-the-story-of-jesus-origins-in-matthew-1/) - This Sunday's lectionary reading for Advent 4 in Year A is Matt 1.18–25. It is a short reading, but laden with significance as Matthew gives his distinctive account of Jesus' origins. (The epistle is Romans 1.1–7, in which Paul introduces all the main ideas of his whole letter! See the video discussion of that here,
- [Is 'Christian nationalism' a contradiction in terms?](https://www.psephizo.com/life-ministry/is-christian-nationalism-a-contradiction-in-terms/) - Martyn Whittock writes: Where should we stand on the subject of ‘Christian nationalism’? As a Christian historian (with a very eclectic set of interests, and having written about early-medieval national origins, attempts at theocracy in the 17th century, and modern European dictatorships) I am very conflicted about the combination of faith and nation. And I
- [Was Jesus born in December?](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/was-jesus-born-in-december/) - One of the problems about the development of traditions around Christmas is that people writing hymns or plays set Jesus' birth in their own world rather than in what we know of the first century. In particular, many assume that Jesus was born in winter, since Christmas is celebrated in winter in the northern hemisphere.
- [The gospel of God in Romans 1 video conversation](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/the-gospel-of-god-in-romans-1-video-conversation/) - The lectionary epistle reading for Advent 4 in Year A is Romans 1.1–7, which is a single sentence in Greek! Paul offers not just an opening greeting, but a programmatic introduction to the whole of his letter. It is relentlessly focussed on what God has done for us, before it ever touches on what might
- [Who Owns Jesus? Tommy Robinson and The Dirty Revival](https://www.psephizo.com/life-ministry/who-owns-jesus-tommy-robinson-and-the-dirty-revival/) - The fury over a Christmas carol event exposes the ideological gatekeeping hollowing out British Christianity. Jason Clark writes: Over the last few days, my social media feeds—shaped by the strange, selective algorithms we all live under—have been replete with progressive and left-leaning Christians condemning the upcoming “Christ in Christmas” event in London linked to Tommy
- [Telling the Christmas story without a stable for children](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/telling-the-christmas-story-without-a-stable-for-children/) - Contrary to popular tradition, Jesus was not born in a stable! Why? Because the 'manger' where he was laid was at the bottom of the main living area of a house in any normal first-century Jewish home. The guest room on the roof was not big enough for Mary to give birth, so she did
- [What does 1 Peter teach us today?](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/what-does-1-peter-teach-us-today/) - When I first learnt New Testament Greek, the set text for our class was (slightly oddly!) 1 Peter. This has left me with an affection for the letter—so I was very interested to see the new commentary on the letter by Sean du Toit in the New Covenant Commentary Series. I had the chance to
- [Does Jesus disappoint our expectations in Matthew 11?](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/does-jesus-disappoint-our-expectations-in-matthew-11/) - The lectionary gospel reading for Advent 3 in Year A is Matt 11.2–11, and as usual is rather truncated, so you might want to extend the reading by a verse or two before and after to be fair to its setting. The chapter begins with the second of Matthew's five summary statements that conclude the
- [Once again: Jesus was not born in a stable!](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/once-again-jesus-was-not-born-in-a-stable/) - Every year, in the northern hemisphere, and especially in Northern Europe, we are apparently caught by surprise as the evenings draw in, and the morning light comes later. It always seems surprising, even though it is the same every year. And every year, I brace myself for the repetition of the ill-founded claim that Jesus
- [The coming of Jesus unites us in James 5 video discussion](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/the-coming-of-jesus-unites-us-in-james-5-video-discussion/) - The epistle for Advent 3 in Year A is James 5.7–10. The lectionary makes an odd choice here, and we really need to read on to verse 11 as well. James here echoes much of the ethical teaching of Jesus, including some exact parallels of wording from the gospels; like Jesus, James draws from the
- [The elephant in the nativity room?](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/the-elephant-in-the-nativity-room/) - John Hudghton writes: Around this time of year my nerdy mind turns to constructing an authentic biblical nativity scene. This amuses my family, to say the least. I try to take on board the lessons of biblical scholarship that Ian Paul has usefully and consistently emphasised for years now. Sadly, this is something which is
- [Is John right about Jesus coming as judge in Matthew 3?](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/is-john-right-about-jesus-coming-as-judge-in-matthew-3/) - The lectionary gospel reading for Advent 2 in Year A is Matt 3.1–12, and it contains many foundational themes of eschatology, the coming of God, and judgement, which set us up nicely for thinking about Advent not as the build-up to Christmas, but (as it should be) thinking about the Last Things. (You can see the
- [John the Baptist, Jesus, and judgement in Matthew 3](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/john-the-baptist-jesus-and-judgement-in-matthew-3/) - The lectionary gospel reading for Advent 2 in Year A is Matt 3.1–12, and it contains many foundational themes of eschatology, the coming of God, and judgement, which set us up nicely for thinking about Advent not as the build-up to Christmas, but (as it should be) thinking about the Last Things. This is one of
- [Why you should want to be 'left behind' in Matthew 24!](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/why-you-should-want-to-be-left-behind-in-matthew-24/) - With the advent of Advent on Sunday, we make the move in the lectionary from Year C to Year A. So, after journeying through Luke all year, this Sunday's gospel reading comes from Matthew, Matt 24.36–44. (For video discussion of this passage, see here, also linked below.) This short section of text contains some important
- [Why is the Exodus important for the New Testament?](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/why-is-the-exodus-important-for-the-new-testament/) - I write a quarterly column for Preach magazine, in which I explore a significant word, phrase, or idea in the Bible, or a theme or section of Scripture, and the ideas that it expresses. At the end of this piece I list the previous articles I have written for them. Here I explore the importance
- [The nature of doctrine, marriage, and discipline in the C of E](https://www.psephizo.com/sexuality-2/the-nature-of-doctrine-marriage-and-discipline-in-the-c-of-e/) - Martin Davie writes: Three papers have recently been published by the Church of England’s Faith and Order Commission to provide advice to the House of Bishops and the General Synod as a whole in advance on further debate on the Prayers of Love and Faith proposals in General Synod in February: a. The nature of
- [Unity between Jew and Gentile in Rom 15 video discussion](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/unity-between-jew-and-gentile-in-rom-15-video-discussion/) - The epistle for Advent 2 in this Year A is Rom 15.4–13. It follows on from Paul's discussion about the 'strong' and the 'weak' in chapter 14, and in many ways summarises the themes of the whole of Romans—that God is uniting Jews and Gentiles who follow Jesus as the goal of his whole plan
- [Can the PLF process be rescued?](https://www.psephizo.com/sexuality-2/can-the-plf-process-be-rescued/) - Andrew Goddard writes: The recent announcement from the House of Bishops (discussed here by me and here by Ian Paul) is raising the question as to how it relates to the last Synod motion on PLF passed back in July 2024. At least one Diocesan Synod is being asked to call on the bishops to
- [Why is the Book of Revelation claimed by every era?](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/why-is-the-book-of-revelation-claimed-by-every-era/) - One of the (many) great paradoxes of the Book of Revelation is that, at one and the same time, it is experienced as both very difficult to interpret, yet also very easy. This explains the very different reactions to it as a biblical text; those who instinctively sense that it is difficult to interpret find
- [What do we learn from the 'Little Apocalypse' in Luke 21?](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/what-do-we-learn-from-the-little-apocalypse-in-luke-21/) - The Sunday gospel lectionary reading for the Second Sunday before Advent in Year C) is Luke 21.5–19, this gospel's version of what is often called the 'Little Apocalypse'. As usual, we need to read on to put this text in its context to understand both the text itself and how it compares with its parallels in
- [Why has the LLF process reached the end of the line?](https://www.psephizo.com/sexuality-2/why-has-the-llf-process-reached-the-end-of-the-line/) - Andrew Goddard writes: Three weeks ago, on 15th October, it was announced that “The House of Bishops has made a series of key decisions on the future direction of the Church of England’s Living in Love and Faith process”. To widespread surprise across the divisions the process has created in the church, this announcement looked
- [Can we find the gospel in our culture?](https://www.psephizo.com/life-ministry/can-we-find-the-gospel-in-our-culture/) - How can we make connections between what we see in our world around us, and the good news of what God has done for us in Jesus? How can we build bridges of understanding from the things that engage the time and attention of those around us, within but especially outside the church, and into
- [How should we see Christ as King in Luke 23?](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/how-should-we-see-christ-as-king-in-luke-23/) - This Sunday was traditionally known in the Church of England as 'Stir-up Sunday', a phrase derived from the BCP Collect for the last Sunday before Advent, which in turn inspired the making of Christmas pudding (which needs plenty of stirring): Stir up, we beseech thee, O Lord, the wills of thy faithful people; that they,
- [Can the BBC be re-enchanted?](https://www.psephizo.com/life-ministry/can-the-bbc-be-re-enchanted/) - David Campanale writes: It was in a one-to-one union meeting with BBC management where I met the darkness. In the wake of the post-Jimmy Savile BBC Trust investigation into a culture of bullying, harassment and control inside the BBC, I had gone on behalf of the National Union of Journalists to read out evidence from
- [Is Luke a gospel of symbolism?](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/is-luke-a-gospel-of-symbolism/) - Twelve years ago I presented a paper at the international Society of Biblical Literature comparing the symbolism of Luke with that of John. There has been a widespread view that John is a 'spiritual' or symbolic gospel, and that is true at one level, though John often includes more historical and eye-witness detail than the
- [What does it mean for us to 'be like the angels' in Luke 20?](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/what-does-it-mean-for-us-to-be-like-the-angels-in-luke-20/) - The Sunday's lectionary reading for the Third before Advent in Year C is Luke 20.27–38, and epistle is Paul's discussion of the 'man of lawlessness' in 2 Thess 2. For video discussions, see here for the gospel, and here for the epistle. Both are also linked at the end. For the gospel reading, once more,
- [The 'man of lawlessness' and 'restrainer' in 2 Thess 2 video discussion](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/the-man-of-lawlessness-and-restrainer-in-2-thess-2-video-discussion/) - Although 2 Thess 2 (the lectionary epistle for the third Sunday before Advent) is not read much in churches, it has been hugely influential, in its ideas of the 'man of lawlessness', and the 'restrainer'—this second term being a controlling idea in Christian ethical thinking in the Middle Ages. Yet it is almost impossible to
- [Who are the antichrist, the 'man of lawlessness', and the beast?](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/who-are-the-antichrist-the-man-of-lawlessness-and-the-beast/) - For those engaged in end-times speculation, whether provoked by the Covid-19 pandemic, global warming, or war in Ukraine, there has been another rash of speculation about the identity of the Antichrist—that end times personal figure who is now somewhere secretly in the world but who will very soon be revealed. (It is worth noting, for
- [Is the Church of England growing—again?](https://www.psephizo.com/life-ministry/is-the-church-of-england-growing-again/) - Marginally later than in some previous years, the full details of the annual returns on attendance for the Church of England has been published ('Statistics for Mission'). This is in two parts, both linked here: a report, giving the main statistics and trends, helpfully illustrated with graphs; and the detailed breakdown by diocese in a
- [King Charles and Pope Leo: a step towards 'full visible unity'?](https://www.psephizo.com/life-ministry/king-charles-and-pope-leo-a-step-towards-full-visible-unity/) - Last week, King Charles III and Pope Leo IV made history in the Sistine Chapel by praying side by side—'a first for the leaders of the Church of England and Catholic Church' according to the BBC. For some, this seemed like a historical ecumenical move; Stephen Cottrell called it a 'step towards the full visible
- [Zacchaeus meets Jesus in Luke 19](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/zacchaeus-meets-jesus-in-luke-19/) - The lectionary reading for the Fourth Sunday before Advent in Year C is the story of Zacchaeus' encounter with Jesus in Luke 19.1–10, a story found only in this gospel. Video discussion of the passage can be found here, and is posted at the end. The epistle for this week is the challenging passage of
- [Is the Church of England growing?](https://www.psephizo.com/life-ministry/is-the-church-of-england-growing/) - Last Friday, the statistics unit of the Church of England released an 'early snapshot' of attendance figures, based on the returns from the count that happens in churches in October last year. The headline looked promising: Attendance at Church of England churches grew for the fourth year in a row last year, preliminary figures show.
- [Tribulation, endurance, and hope in 2 Thessalonians 1 video discussion](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/tribulation-endurance-and-hope-in-2-thessalonians-1-video-discussion/) - In the Fourth Sunday before Advent in Year C, we are starting a short series reading through 2 Thessalonians, and this week's reading is the whole of Chapter 1. It is a challenging reading, talking of the suffering of the Thessalonians Christians, and their steadfastness as a sign of God's favour. But it also speaks
- [The idiocy of the LLF process](https://www.psephizo.com/sexuality-2/the-idiocy-of-the-llf-process/) - Joshua Penduck writes: On a cold and wet evening sometime in early 2021, my church’s ministry and management team met on Zoom to discuss the first chapter of the then new Living in Love and Faith material. I knew that that there were mixed opinions on the team. I didn’t realise just how mixed. The
- [Can pastoral ministry be re-united with theological thinking?](https://www.psephizo.com/life-ministry/can-pastoral-ministry-be-re-united-with-theological-thinking/) - One of the perennial features of theological study and preparation for Christian ministry has been the yawning chasm between scholarship and church leadership over the last century or two. The evidence for this varies from the comment to young Christians: 'Don't study theology at university; you will lose your faith', to a sense that theological
- [The pharisee and the tax collector in Luke 18](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/the-pharisee-and-the-tax-collector-in-luke-18/) - The gospel lectionary reading for the so-called Last Sunday after Trinity in Year C is Luke 18.9–14, the parable of the Pharisee and the Tax-collector, and the epistle is 2 Tim 4.6–8 and 16–18. You can see the discussion of the gospel passage here, and of the epistle here, and both are linked below. We
- [Paul sees his death within God's purposes in 2 Tim 4 video discussion](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/paul-sees-his-death-within-gods-purposes-in-2-tim-4-video-discussion/) - The lectionary reading for the so-called last Sunday after Trinity is 2 Tim 4.6–8 and 16–18. As sometimes happens, the lectionary omits important verses which you should read! This passage offers amazing insights into how Paul sees his own death in relation to Jesus' return, how he locates the particulars of his life within a
- [The end of the Church of England dispute on sexuality?](https://www.psephizo.com/sexuality-2/the-end-of-the-church-of-england-dispute-on-sexuality/) - On Wednesday at about a quarter to five, the House of Bishops released a very significant statement, following their meeting the previous week in which they spent six and a half hours discussing the next (and final?) steps in the LLF process. The timing was odd; my understanding was that they were planning to release
- [Scripture, maturity, and ministry in 2 Tim 3–4 video discussion](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/scripture-maturity-and-ministry-in-2-tim-3-4-video-discussion/) - The lectionary epistle for Trinity 18 is 2 Timothy 3.14—4.5, perhaps the most theological dense passage of all Paul's writings. He makes one of his clearest theological claims about the nature of Scripture, characteristically coining his own word to express this, and connects the truth of Scripture with salvation in Christ and spiritual maturity. And,
- [Is God like the Unjust Judge in Luke 18?](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/is-god-like-the-unjust-judge-in-luke-18/) - The Sunday lectionary gospel reading for Trinity 18 in Year C is the Parable of the Unjust Judge and the Persistent Widow from Luke 18.1–8. A surface reading, confirmed by most online comments on it, is that basically we need to be nagging God before he will answer our prayer! But a more careful reading,
- [Is the Archbishop of Canterbury head of the Church and the Communion?](https://www.psephizo.com/life-ministry/is-the-archbishop-of-canterbury-head-of-the-church-and-the-communion/) - Martin Davie writes: The announcement of the choice of the Bishop of London, Dame Sarah Mullally, to be the next Archbishop of Canterbury has been accompanied by frequent references to the Archbishop of Canterbury as the ‘head of the Church of England’ or the ‘head of the Anglican Communion.’ In this post I shall explain
- [Is there a case for slavery reparations?](https://www.psephizo.com/life-ministry/is-there-a-case-for-slavery-reparations/) - Lord Nigel Biggar is Regius Professor Emeritus of Moral Theology at the University of Oxford, and a well-known author on moral and ethical issues. He has just published Reparations: Slavery and the Tyranny of Imaginary Guilt (Swift, 2025), challenging the current narrative within and beyond the Church of England about the need for reparations
- [Remembering God's faithfulness in 2 Tim 2 video discussion](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/remembering-gods-faithfulness-in-2-tim-2-video-discussion/) - The lectionary epistle for Trinity 17 in Year C is 2 Timothy 2.8–15. Paul continues with the theme of 'remembering', characteristically interweaving God's powerful initiative and the need for our response. The passage has connections with Jesus' teaching in the gospels and (of course) with the Book of Revelation. Sadly, James does not sing for
- [What challenges face Sarah Mullally as the new archbishop?](https://www.psephizo.com/life-ministry/what-challenges-face-sarah-mullaly-as-the-new-archbishop/) - Yesterday morning, at 10 am, the historic announcement was made as to who will be the 106th Archbishop of Canterbury: Dame Sarah Mullally, the current bishop of London, and former Chief Nurse—appointed to that role when she was 37, the youngest ever appointment. As I have set out previously, the Church of England faces a
- [Does Jesus see us as good-for-nothing slaves in Luke 17?](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/does-jesus-see-us-as-good-for-nothing-slaves-in-luke-17/) - The Sunday lectionary reading for Trinity 16 in Year C is Luke 17.5–10, and it offers some serious challenges to our understanding and practice. (The epistle is 2 Tim 1.1–14, a passage full of fascinating ideas and startling metaphors; you can find the video discussion of that passage here, and video discussion of Luke 17
- [History, law, and individual cups at Communion](https://www.psephizo.com/life-ministry/history-law-and-individual-cups-at-communion/) - The use of individual cups at Holy Communion is again being hotly debated in Church of England parishes and PCCs. I asked Prof Andrew Atherstone about the fruits of his latest historical research into the topic. IP: As you and others have pointed out in the past, the command of Jesus is to 'drink you
- [Ways to pass on the faith in 2 Timothy 1 video discussion](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/ways-to-pass-on-the-faith-in-2-timothy-1-video-discussion/) - The epistle for Trinity 16 in Year C is 2 Tim 1.1–14. Paul uses striking fatherly language in addressing Timothy, but also notes the way that faith has been passed to him through his biological family line—thus illustrating the two ways in which we can be fruitful in creation and kingdom. We explore Paul's vivid
- [The demographic crisis in Church of England ministry](https://www.psephizo.com/life-ministry/the-demographic-crisis-in-church-of-england-ministry/) - Last weekend, in an online conversation, someone highlighted to me the most recent ministry statistics, which were released in June, but seem to have gone under the radar. I certainly did not spot them, and I don't recall anyone commenting on them. They show that 47.5% of current C of E stipendiary clergy are aged
- [Why don't we know what Jesus looked like?](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/why-dont-we-know-what-jesus-looked-like/) - John Nelson combines teaching in a secondary school with serious academic research on the New Testament. At the British New Testament Conference earlier this month, he gave a fascinating paper about his research on why the gospels don't describe the appearance of Jesus, and I asked him about it. IP: Most people—both Christians and interested
- [Wealth, discipline, and character in 1 Tim 6 video discussion](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/wealth-discipline-and-character-in-1-tim-6-video-discussion/) - The epistle for Trinity 15 in Year C is 1 Tim 6.6–19. Once more, the lectionary cuts the reading in an odd place, starting half way through an argument of Paul, and finishing two verses short of the end of the letter. There are some important issues to address in terms of Paul's language and
- [Money, sex, and power: Will the next archbishop save the Church of England?](https://www.psephizo.com/life-ministry/money-sex-and-power-will-the-next-archbishop-save-the-church-of-england/) - Tim Wyatt is an interesting and often astute commentator on things Church of England. Ten days ago he expanded an article he had written in the New Statesman, setting out the challenges facing whoever will be appointed next Archbishop of Canterbury, in a much longer piece on his substack. Tim has interviewed a number of
- [The intriguing parable of the Unjust Steward in Luke 16](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/the-intriguing-parable-of-the-unjust-steward-in-luke-16/) - The Sunday lectionary gospel reading for Trinity 14 in Year C is Luke 16.1–13, the so-called Parable of the Unjust Steward (or 'Dishonest Manager'). (The epistle is 1 Tim 2.1–7, and you can find video discussion of that reading here, and video discussion of Luke 16 here. Both are also posted at the foot of
- [Tyndale NT Study Group 2026: Call for papers on Paul within Judaism](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/tyndale-nt-study-group-2026-call-for-papers-on-paul-within-judaism/) - The theme for the Tyndale Fellowship New Testament Study Group in 2026 is Paul within Judaism, and we are meeting from Wednesday 1st to Friday 3rd July 2026 at the excellent conference facility of High Leigh Conference Centre, Hoddesdon, UK. It is easily accessible by train from London in about 20 minutes (from Tottenham Hale).
- [What is the nature and goal of prayer in 1 Timothy 2? video discussion](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/what-is-the-nature-and-goal-of-prayer-in-1-timothy-2-video-discussion/) - The epistle for Trinity 14 is a second passage from 1 Tim, this time the first seven verses of chapter 2. Paul's urging Timothy that all kinds of prayer should be offering follows strongly from the previous passage explaining the nature of the gospel as shown by his own experience. His call to pray for
- [What kind of 'church' does God want us to be?](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/what-kind-of-church-does-god-want-us-to-be/) - The perennial question for anyone thinking seriously about the Christian life and our place in the world has two parts to it. First, we need to think about the world we are in, and try to make sense of it. Secondly, we need to ask what kind of 'church' we are to be—what kind of
- [Is the Archbishop of York right about migration?](https://www.psephizo.com/life-ministry/is-the-archbishop-of-york-right-about-migration/) - When bishops and archbishops speak about migration it always hits the headlines—and never ends well. In 2016, Justin Welby got into trouble when he said that it was quite reasonable to ‘fear’ the consequences of mass migration. There is a tendency to say ‘those people are racist’, which is just outrageous, absolutely outrageous. But in
- [Jesus' parables of the lost in Luke 15](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/jesus-parables-of-the-lost-in-luke-15/) - The Sunday lectionary gospel for Trinity 13 in Year C is the first two of the three 'parables of the lost' in Luke 15, the parable of the lost sheep and the parable of the lost coin. We don't go on to read the third, the parable of the prodigal son, since we read that
- [Grace, faith, and love in Paul's testimony in 1 Tim 1 video discussion](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/grace-faith-and-love-in-pauls-testimony-in-1-tim-1-video-discussion/) - Our epistle reading for Trinity 13 in this Year C is 1 Tim 1.12–17. (It is not clear why the lectionary omits the opening verses of 1 Tim.) There are very good reasons to believe (against some scholarship) that this was indeed written by Paul. His personal testimony matches what we know from elsewhere; the
- [Do we have a 'polyphonic' God?](https://www.psephizo.com/reviews/do-we-have-a-polyphonic-god/) - John Root writes on: Polyphonic God: Exploring Intercultural Theology, Churches and Justice, edited by Israel Oluwole Olofinjana, David Wise, and Usha Reifsnider. This book is a goldmine. Several of the contributions are brilliant; none is without merit. Church leaders in multi-ethnic communities will find the book invaluable, despite its fairly hefty price. Contributions come from
- [The radical demands of grace in Luke 14](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/the-radical-demands-of-grace-in-luke-14/) - In the gospel reading for Trinity 12 in Year C, Luke 14.25–33, we complete our navigation through this section of Jesus' intermingled teaching and action until we hit the landfall of the 'parables of the lost' next week in Luke 15. The double focus on the crowds and discipleship, the drawing together of teaching found
- [Reconciliation and fellowship in Philemon video discussion](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/reconciliation-and-fellowship-in-philemon-video-discussion/) - The epistle for Trinity 12 in Year C is Paul's letter to Philemon about his runaway slave Onesimus. Why is this letter so interesting? What is the significance of it being a public rather than private letter? What rhetorical strategy does Paul use to make his point? And how do the ideas of reconciliation and
- [Writing out the Bible by hand](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/writing-out-the-bible-by-hand/) - I was fascinating to learn, on social media and in personal conversation, that my friend and General Synod colleague Kate Wharton has for several years been writing out the Bible by hand in personal notebooks. So I asked her about the project. IP: What has this project involved? How much time has it taken so
- [Is evolution and an 'old earth' compatible with Genesis 1 and 2?](https://www.psephizo.com/life-ministry/is-evolution-and-an-old-earth-compatible-with-genesis-1-and-2/) - There has been some fascinating conversation about this subject in a Facebook group I am part of in the last week. One contributor to that has been Zachary Arden, and I asked him about his interest in this subject and why it concerns him. IP: Zachary, where are you from, and what are you doing
- [Does Jesus allow divorce 'for any reason' in Mark 10?](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/does-jesus-allow-divorce-for-any-reason-in-mark-10/) - The Sunday gospel lectionary reading for Trinity 19 in Year B is Mark 10.2–16. I think it is impossible to preach on this passage without dealing with the question of the consequences of Jesus' teaching for our own attitude to and the Church's practice in relation to divorce and remarriage, and this will make it
- [The compassion and healing of Jesus in Mark 6](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/the-compassion-and-healing-of-jesus-in-mark-6/) - The gospel lectionary reading for Trinity 8 in Year B appears to be very odd at first, with a split collection of verses in Mark 6.30–34 and 53–56. I think the logic for this is that we are considering the 'bread' of another Markan sandwich, and the 'filling' is the paired episodes of the feeding
- [Jesus is the bread of life in John 6](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/jesus-is-the-bread-of-life-in-john-6/) - We continue through our careful reading of John 6 as an intermission from Mark's gospel, and on Trinity 10 in Year B the gospel reading is John 6.24–35. Having romped through 21 verses last week, which include the Fourth Gospel's lengthier version of the feeding of the 5,000 and Jesus walking on water (though in
- [Healing, pride, and humility at the banquet in Luke 14 video discussion](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/healing-pride-and-humility-at-the-banquet-in-luke-14-video-discussion/) - The lectionary gospel reading for Trinity 11 in Year C, Luke 14.1, 7–14—though the whole passage should be read—continues to engage with material that is unique to Luke, arranged in Luke’s distinctive order, and bridging the worlds of the original context of Jesus and Judaism and Luke’s context in wider Roman culture. The passage comes
- [Healing, pride, and humility at the banquet in Luke 14](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/healing-pride-and-humility-at-the-banquet-in-luke-14/) - The lectionary gospel reading for Trinity 11 in Year C, Luke 14.1, 7–14, continues to engage with material that is unique to Luke, arranged in Luke's distinctive order, and bridging the worlds of the original context of Jesus and Judaism and Luke's context in wider Roman culture. (You can watch the video discussion of this
- [Jesus calls Philip and Nathanael in John 1 video discussion](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/jesus-calls-philip-and-nathanael-in-john-1/) - The gospel lectionary reading for the Second Sunday in Epiphany is the next stage in Jesus’ initial encounter with the first disciples in John 1.43–51, in which Philip introduces Nathanael to Jesus. Like other passages in this early part of the Fourth Gospel, it is quite a sparse narrative, but laden with significance, including anticipations
- [What is worship?](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/what-is-worship-2/) - I write a quarterly column for Preach magazine, in which I explore a significant word, phrase, or idea in the Bible, or a theme or section of Scripture, and the ideas that it expresses. At the end of this piece I list the previous articles I have written for them. Here I explore what Scripture
- [(When) should we refuse to receive Holy Communion?](https://www.psephizo.com/life-ministry/when-should-we-refuse-to-receive-holy-communion/) - Andrew Atherstone’s new publication, “Draw Near With Faith”: Invitations to Holy Communion, is out now with Grove Books. I asked him why we need the booklet, and what questions it is trying to answer. IP: What gave you the original idea for this booklet? AA: Almost all my writing begins as a personal question, on
- [Does the C of E celebrate the Assumption of Mary?](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/does-the-c-of-e-celebrate-the-assumption-of-mary/) - If you enjoy this article, why not Buy me a Coffee Andrew Goddard writes: I was rather shocked a couple of years ago when I spotted in my Twitter feed the following tweet from the Archbishop of Canterbury: Today we mark the Feast of the #Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary. Like Mary, let each
- [The healing of the woman bent double in Luke 13](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/the-healing-of-the-woman-bent-double-in-luke-13/) - The lectionary gospel reading for Trinity 10 Year C is Luke 13.10–17, a short but remarkable account, unique to Luke, of Jesus healing a crippled woman on the Sabbath. For video discussion of the issues here, together with a new discovery about the text, watch here. There are multiple layers to the meaning of this
- [The healing of the woman bent double in Luke 13 video discussion](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/the-healing-of-the-woman-bent-double-in-luke-13-video-discussion/) - If you enjoy these videos, why not buy us a coffee? The gospel reading for Trinity 10 in Year C is Luke 13.10–17, a short but remarkable story of Jesus healing a woman bent double. It has a striking literary structure, which can be thought of as a kind of literary diptych; the effect is
- [The many layers of the story of the women bent double in Luke 13](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/the-many-layers-of-the-story-of-the-women-bent-double-in-luke-13/) - The lectionary gospel reading for Trinity 10 Year C is Luke 13.10–17, a remarkable short account, unique to Luke, of Jesus healing a crippled woman on the Sabbath. There are multiple layers to the meaning of this story, and an interesting and important challenge is how we might, in our own local context, enable exploration
- [Is God's salvation a 'wide open space'?](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/is-gods-salvation-a-wide-open-space/) - I have often heard it said that when God delivers us, he leads us from a sense of being trapped, hemmed in and confined to a sense of being in a ‘wide open space.’ I think I have probably said this myself in a talk or sermon on more than one occasion. I remember, many
- [Why does Jesus bring ‘division and a sword’ in Luke 12?](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/why-does-jesus-bring-division-and-a-sword-in-luke-12/) - (If you enjoy this article, why not buy me a coffee?) The Sunday lectionary reading (Trinity 9, Year C) continues on its journey through Luke's 'special section' of Jesus' ministry and teaching on road to Jerusalem from Luke 9.51 to Luke 18.14. In this short (and again, inexplicably truncated by the lectionary) reading from Luke
- [Why does Jesus bring 'division and a sword' in Luke 12? video discussion](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/why-does-jesus-bring-division-and-a-sword-in-luke-12-video-discussion/) - The gospel lectionary reading for Trinity 9 in this Year C is Luke 12.49–56, continuing in a substantial section of teaching of Jesus gathered together by Luke. In this part of the gospel, we find some of Jesus' toughest teaching about the reality of judgement and the cost of following him. (The lectionary oddly cuts
- [Jesus, resurrection on the 'eighth day' and the new creation](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/jesus-resurrection-on-the-eighth-day-and-the-new-creation/) - What is the connection between Jesus' name and the number eight? Why was it significant that Jesus was raised on the eighth day? And what is the theological meaning of this for his followers? To consider this, we need to think about the culture of the first century and how people understood numbers. In the
- [Why we should stop using the word 'Church'](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/why-we-should-stop-using-the-word-church/) - I would like to start a campaign, and it begins today: we should prohibit all use of the word 'church'. I suppose I should qualify that a little: we should prohibit the use of the word "church" in the context of discussing the New Testament. Anyone who was my student from my nearly ten years
- [How do we rest in the Father's love and be ready for action in Luke 12?](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/how-do-we-rest-in-the-fathers-love-and-be-ready-for-action-in-luke-12/) - The Sunday lectionary gospel for Trinity 8 in Year C is from Luke 12.32–40, and offers a slightly odd selection of verses, in that it includes the end of one section of Jesus' teaching—on trusting God for provision, and so being generous with our possessions—and the beginning of another, on readiness for the return of
- [How to rest in the Father's love and be ready for the Son's return in Luke 12 video discussion](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/how-to-rest-in-the-fathers-love-and-be-ready-for-the-sons-return-in-luke-12-video-discussion/) - The gospel lectionary reading for Trinity 8 in this Year C is Luke 12.32-40. It brings together two teachings of Jesus, which appear to be paradoxical, or at least in some tension. On the one hand, we are to be at peace, and enjoy the freedom that comes from knowing the Father's love. Because of
- [Should racial justice be at the heart of the Church's mission?](https://www.psephizo.com/life-ministry/should-racial-justice-be-at-the-heart-of-the-churchs-mission/) - John Root writes: ‘Being Built Together Volume 1: A Reference on Racial Justice in the Church of England’ (hereafter BBT) is a ‘book of readings and testimonies about the work of racial justice and the experiences of people of colour in the Church of England’ according to the Church’s leading administrator, William Nye. It includes
- [Does the State of Israel have a divine right to the land?](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/does-the-state-of-israel-have-a-divine-right-to-the-land/) - Some years ago, Martin Saunders (of Youthscape) wrote an excellent article highlighting four issues which often prevent evangelicals from understanding what has been happening in the Israel/Gaza conflict—and these problems come up each time the conflict hits the news. It seems particularly pertinent at the moment. First, he comments ‘It’s not as simple as good
- [What do we learn from the rich fool in Luke 12?](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/what-do-we-learn-from-the-rich-fool-in-luke-12/) - The lectionary reading for the Seventh Sunday after Trinity in Year C is the Parable of the Rich Fool in Luke 12.13–21. It is one of several parables that is unique to Luke, and includes features that connect it with other Lukan parables. The video discussion of this passage can be found here (and is
- [Our new life in the ascended Christ in Colossians 3](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/our-new-life-in-the-ascended-christ-in-colossians-3/) - The lectionary reading for Trinity 7 in this Year C is Colossians 3.1–11, the last of our mini-series in this letter. We are at a classic hinge point in Paul's letter; having told us everything that God has done for us in Christ (the indicative), he now moves on to explore what the response to
- [What does the New Testament say about tribulation?](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/what-does-the-new-testament-say-about-tribulation/) - The term 'tribulation' has come to have a special significance within a certain approach to reading the NT in general and the Book of Revelation in particular. It is thought to refer to an intense period, lasting seven years (though there is no mention of this time period in the NT), within a chronology of
- [How might we pray like Jesus in Luke 11?](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/how-might-we-pray-like-jesus-in-luke-11/) - The Sunday lectionary readings for the Sixth Sunday after Trinity in Year C continue through Luke's gospel, and we now reach Luke 11.1–13 and Jesus' teaching on prayer. (The epistle is Col 2.6–15, and you can find the video discussion of it here, and linked at the end of this piece, along with the video
- [Living in the fullness of Christ in Colossians 2](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/living-in-the-fullness-of-christ-in-colossians-2/) - The lectionary epistle for Trinity 6 is Colossians 2.6-15 (and the gospel is Luke 11.1–13, Jesus' teaching on prayer). Paul continues to expand on the implications of who Jesus is for our discipleship. He draws strong parallels in his language with the Spirit in Ephesians 5, and deploys metaphors of plants, buildings, and athletes to
- [The paradoxes of sacrifice in Leviticus](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/the-paradoxes-of-sacrifice-in-leviticus/) - James Bejon writes: Last week on the Theopolis podcast, Peter Leithart, Alastair Roberts, Jeff Meyers, and I worked our way through the first half of Hebrews 9. Below I want to highlight something which became clear(er) to me as we did so. Preamble The Levitical system was, in many ways, a system full of paradoxes.
- [Four turning points in July's General Synod](https://www.psephizo.com/life-ministry/four-turning-points-in-julys-general-synod/) - Attending General Synod is always an intense experience, and I always need a couple of days to recover, despite trying to be wise in the use of my time and energy whilst there. And it is dangerous making early judgements about the significance of a particular meeting, since this often only comes to light with
- [Is Mary's devotion better than Martha's service in Luke 10?](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/is-marys-devotion-better-than-marthas-service-in-luke-10/) - On Trinity 5 in Year C, the gospel reading is the very well-known and widely misread story of Martha and Mary in Luke 10.38–end. You can find the video discussion of the passage here, and video discussion of the epistle for the week, Col 1.15–28, the so-called 'Christ hymn', here. Both are also linked at
- [Paul's 'Christ hymn' in Colossians 1 video discussion](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/pauls-christ-hymn-in-colossians-1-video-discussion/) - Our reading for Trinity 5 in Year C continues our mini-series in Colossian, following on from last week's passage with Col 1.15–28. (Once more the lectionary does odd things, giving us a long, dense reading and then, inexplicably, cutting off the last verse of the chapter.) There is much scholarly debate on this passage—was Paul
- [Anthony Trollope at General Synod](https://www.psephizo.com/life-ministry/anthony-trollope-at-general-synod/) - General Synod is currently meeting in York (you can watch the proceedings live on the Church of England YouTube channel), and the debates can vary from the sublime to the ridiculous. Everything is improved with a sprinkling of humour, and to that end I asked ChatGPT how Anthony Trollope might describe the opening of Synod.
- [Has Living in Love and Faith come to an end? An open letter to the Archbishop of York](https://www.psephizo.com/sexuality-2/has-living-in-love-and-faith-come-to-an-end-an-open-letter-to-the-archbishop-of-york/) - Dear Stephen I read with interest your address to York Diocesan Synod on 5th July, and one word leapt out for me: 'final'. Near the end of your address, you comment: The Living in Love and Faith process is not yet complete. Some final proposals will be brought to the February 2026 meeting of the
- [Personality, persona, and leading worship](https://www.psephizo.com/life-ministry/personality-persona-and-leading-worship/) - Graham Hunter writes: I have spent a good deal of time in recent years reflecting on questions of personality, role and my impact on others in my work as a Vicar in an inner-city east London parish. In my early years in ministry, if anything was going wrong, or was troublesome and challenging, I would
- [Seven surprising things about the parable of the Good Samaritan in Luke 10](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/seven-surprising-things-about-the-parable-of-the-good-samaritan-in-luke-10/) - The Sunday gospel lectionary reading for Trinity 4 in Year C is Luke 10.25-37, most commonly known as the Parable of the Good Samaritan. I suspect many people preaching on this will be looking to wring some new truth from this, but might well lapse back into the 'Jesus wants us to do good to
- [Are Anglican patterns of leadership biblical?](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/are-anglican-patterns-of-leadership-biblical/) - At this time of year, my social media feeds are full of pictures of people in robes standing outside cathedrals, they or their friends having been ordained. So this is a good time to reflect on what is happening, and to ask: 'Is this Anglican approach to leadership actually following a biblical pattern?' Someone might
- [What is Jesus' understanding of mission in Luke 10?](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/what-is-jesus-understanding-of-mission-in-luke-10/) - This week Sunday lectionary reading for Trinity 3 Year C is Luke 10.1–11, 16–20 which records Jesus sending out the seventy-(two) on 'mission' and their return. I include at the foot of this article the video discussion of this passage, together with the (new) video discussion of the NT epistle for this week, Galatians
- [Is the Church just being ‘a bit thick’ in resisting same-sex marriage?](https://www.psephizo.com/sexuality-2/is-the-church-just-being-a-bit-thick-in-resisting-same-sex-marriage/) - Last month, Justin Welby was interviewed at the Cambridge Union, and some of his comments once more hit the headlines. When I heard about this, I could not help rolling my eyes. Despite having initially welcomed his appointment, and having then tried hard to work with him well as a member of the Archbishops’ Council,
- [Paul's prayer for God's people in Colossians 1 video discussion](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/pauls-prayer-for-gods-people-in-colossians-1-video-discussion/) - The lectionary reading for Trinity 4 in Year C is Colossians 1.1–14, the opening greetings and prayer of Paul for the followers of Jesus he has not met in an ekklesia which he did not plant. Paul adapts the standard letter greetings in a striking way, and his two part prayer/introduction (there is a break
- [Mutual accountability in Galatians 6 video discussion](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/mutual-accountability-in-galatians-6-video-discussion/) - For Trinity 3 in this Year C, we finish our mini-series on Galatians with (most of) the final chapter, Galatians 6.[1-6] 7-16. (The lectionary choice is again slightly odd; the first part should be read, and strangely it omits the final two verses for no obvious reason.) There is not an obvious structure to what
- [Is 'Covenant' the answer to our nation's problems?](https://www.psephizo.com/reviews/is-covenant-the-answer-to-our-nations-problems/) - Mark Broadway writes: It is sometimes remarked that it is uncouth to discuss religion and politics. Throw into that mix money, sex, and death, and you begin to set the bounds for the precise discussion that takes place within Danny Kruger’s 2023 manifesto-of-sorts, Covenant: The New Politics of Home, Neighbourhood, and Nation. This is a
- [Why does discipleship look so hard in Luke 9?](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/why-does-discipleship-look-so-hard-in-luke-9/) - The lectionary reading for Trinity 2 in Year C is Luke 9.51–62, and the epistle is Gal 5.1, 13–25. Commentary on the gospel reading follows below. For video discussion of the gospel reading, see here; for video discussion of Gal 5, see here. The gospel reading from Luke 9.51–62 consists of a brief narrative of
- [Robotics, technology, and reading Revelation 13](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/robotics-technology-and-reading-revelation-13/) - There is one thing that I think everyone agrees on: The Book of Revelation is a strange book to read. As someone once said about the Troubles in Northern Ireland: 'If you're not confused, you don't really know what is going on!' There are many reasons for Revelation's 'strangeness' to us, in a technical sense.
- [Freedom, flesh, and the Spirit in Galatians 5](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/freedom-flesh-and-the-spirit-in-galatians-5/) - The lectionary readings for Trinity 2 in Year C are Galatians 5.1, 13-25 Luke 9.51-end. In Galatians 5, Paul explores the meaning of freedom in Christ. This is not freedom to indulge the desires of our sinful human nature (the 'flesh') but the freedom to fulfill the law in obedience to God by the power
- [Does ‘impartiality’ express the heart of the gospel?](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/does-impartiality-express-the-heart-of-the-gospel/) - When I first started studying theology, our set text for our New Testament Greek class was 1 Peter, the same text which is the focus of study of the Lambeth Conference meeting of Anglican bishops from around the world planned for this summer. It was a slightly odd text to choose for those starting out
- [Why do we struggle with intimacy—with God, others, even ourself?](https://www.psephizo.com/reviews/why-do-we-struggle-with-intimacy-with-god-others-even-ourself/) - My friend Ed Shaw is publishing an important book this week, addressing an issue which is a key issue in contemporary culture. The Intimacy Deficit is published by IVP on Thursday, and you can get a 20% discount using the code INTIMACY20 on the IVP website if you order today, before 19th June. I interviewed Ed
- [Jesus delivers the Gerasene demoniac in Luke 8](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/jesus-delivers-the-gerasene-demoniac-in-luke-8/) - The lectionary reading for Trinity 1, Year C, is Luke's version of Jesus meeting and healing the demon-possessed man in the 'region of the Gerasenes' (Luke 8.26–39). See below for commentary on this passage. The epistle for this week is Galatians 3.23-29, and you can watch the video discussion of that passage here, and the
- [Faith and law in Gal 3 video discussion](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/faith-and-law-in-gal-3-video-discussion/) - The lectionary readings for Trinity 1 in Year C are Galatians 3.23-29 and Luke 8.26-39. In Gal 3, Paul is dealing with the question of the relationship between faith and law, something he will revisit in next week's reading from Gal 5. Both are from God, so cannot be fundamentally opposed. And yet Paul sees
- [Preaching on the Trinity and John 16](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/preaching-on-the-trinity-and-john-16/) - The Sunday gospel lectionary reading for Trinity Sunday in this Year C is John 16.12–15. It is another very short reading (four verses) from the 'farewell discourse' of Jesus, and I think is actually quite a difficult reading to preach from. Like much of this part of the Fourth Gospel, it is reflective, repeats things
- [Who am I as a worship leader?](https://www.psephizo.com/reviews/who-am-i-as-a-worship-leader/) - John Leach, a long-time Grove author, has just written a new title in the Worship series with his son Paul. It explores the often-neglected question of who am I as a worship leader—what persona do I project, have I reflected on that, and is it helpful? I interviewed John about it, and the interview is embedded
- [How is the Holy Spirit described in Scripture?](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/how-is-the-holy-spirit-described-in-scripture/) - It is quite common for people to make observations about the role or meaning of the Holy Spirit based on aspects of the language Scripture uses—including comments about the ‘gender’ role of the Spirit. But careful reading of the scriptural narrative shows a surprising diversity in the language that is used. The Spirit as hovering
- [Peace, Hope, and Suffering in Romans 5 video discussion](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/peace-hope-and-suffering-in-romans-5-video-discussion/) - The lectionary readings in this Year C for Trinity Sunday are John 16.12–15 and Romans 5.1–5, both quite short readings. Western eyes often read Romans 5 in individual terms, but the honour/shame/glory motif needs to be understood corporately. The surprising combination of hope and suffering shows that Paul's eschatology stands behind this—the future has broken
- [How should we respond to the 'assisted dying' bill?](https://www.psephizo.com/life-ministry/how-should-we-respond-to-the-assisted-dying-bill/) - This week, good old Grove Books Ltd has published an important title by Andrew Goddard called Right to Die? The 'Assisted Dying' Debate. It is very timely, given that the so-called Assisted Dying Bill is coming back for its third reading in the Commons on 20th June. I offer here some samples of the text, showing how
- [Ministry, power, and the Ascension](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/ministry-power-and-the-ascension/) - James Cawdell writes: In today’s world, we often find ourselves caught between two cultural poles when it comes to power: one that celebrates dominance and control (often caricatured as the 'red pill' mindset); and another that views all power as inherently oppressive, associated with so-called 'social Marxism’. Christianity, however, has never sat comfortably with either.
- [Pentecost: the Spirit sent to send the people of God in Acts 2](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/pentecost-the-spirit-sent-to-send-the-people-of-god-in-acts-2/) - This Sunday is the feast of Pentecost, fifty days from Passover (hence the name), in the Jewish calendar the festival of Shavuot ('weeks'), one of the three great pilgrim festivals (with Passover and Sukkot, 'Tabernacles'). It was the beginning of the wheat harvest, but also celebrated the giving of the Torah on Sinai, and so
- [History, Roman officials, and persecution in the New Testament](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/history-roman-officials-and-persecution-in-the-new-testament/) - Stephen Webb writes: As a (near) lifelong bureaucrat, I always have an interest in, and a certain fellow feeling with, past colleagues facing challenges. And being a Roman military or civil leader confronted with Jesus or his disciples must have been an exasperating experience, given an added edge by the constant looming fear of public
- [Process, representation, and the next Archbishop of Canterbury](https://www.psephizo.com/life-ministry/process-representation-and-the-next-archbishop-of-canterbury/) - Andrew Goddard writes: On Tuesday 27th May, in the week when the first Crown Nominations Commission (CNC) meeting takes place to begin discerning who should be nominated as Archbishop of Canterbury, the Canterbury Diocese Vacancy-in-See Committee (ViSC) elected its three representatives. Perhaps unsurprisingly, this final stage in the process once again highlights problems with the
- [Who are the bishops in the Church of England?](https://www.psephizo.com/life-ministry/who-are-the-bishops-in-the-church-of-england/) - Andrew Goddard writes: Sometime this week those tasked with nominating a new Archbishop of Canterbury will be meeting for the first of at least three scheduled meetings (the next are in July and September). It is most likely that the person chosen will be a current (likely diocesan) bishop serving in the Church of England
- [Paul, the slave girl, and release from prison in Acts 16](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/paul-the-slave-girl-and-release-from-prison-in-acts-16/) - The lectionary reading for Easter 7 in Year C is Acts 16.16–34, and in this season the lectionary emphasises that this is the reading which should be focussed on. It is an unusually long reading—though does not quite finish the story. Luke has carefully structured this to pair with the story of Lydia, so we
- [What has now happened with clergy pensions?](https://www.psephizo.com/life-ministry/what-has-now-happened-with-clergy-pensions/) - Regular readers will know that I have been concerned for many years at the gradual erosion of the clergy stipend, and both the corresponding decline in the clergy pension, together with the major changes made in 2008 and 2011, reducing the pension to 1/2 of the stipend from 2/3, and extending the qualifying period of
- [How to avoid being antisemitic](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/how-to-avoid-being-antisemitic/) - There has been a record-breaking rise in antisemitic incidents in the UK since the attack by Hamas on October 7th 2023. Antisemitic incidents reached the highest level recorded, the monitoring and community safety organisation the Community Security Trust (CST) said. In the 12 months after the 7 October attacks there were 5,583 incidents in the
- [Canterbury tales: what happens next?](https://www.psephizo.com/life-ministry/canterbury-tales-what-happens-next/) - Andrew Goddard writes: This week the number of confirmed members of the Canterbury Crown Nominations Commission (CNC) rose from 3 to 14 with only 3 names left to be determined and announced (those from Canterbury diocese). A helpful website provides details of each of the people and the 3 non-voting members. What can we learn
- [The gospel crosses to Europe in Acts 16](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/the-gospel-crosses-to-europe-in-acts-16/) - The Sunday lectionary reading for this week, Easter 6 in Year C, is Acts 16.9–15. We are continuing in this season to focus on the reading from Acts, which (the lectionary tells us) must be the first or second reading. This is a pivotal moment in the gentile mission, since it is the time when,
- [The gospel crosses to Europe in Acts 16 video discussion](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/the-gospel-crosses-to-europe-in-acts-16-video-discussion/) - We continue focussing on the passages in Acts, and for Easter 6 in Year C the reading is Acts 16.9–15. This starts half-way through a paragraph, so we should really start reading at verse 6. We are now in the second half of Acts, focussing on what the Spirit is doing through the ministry of
- [Why is encouragement so important to us?](https://www.psephizo.com/life-ministry/why-is-encouragement-so-important-to-us/) - Ian Silk has written a Grove booklet on the vital subject of encouragement. I interviewed him about it, and include the video below. Here is the start of the chapter of the booklet, to give you a flavour. You can buy from the Grove website here. What is encouragement in common experience, and where is
- [Why does the Acts of the Apostles matter today?](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/why-does-the-acts-of-the-apostles-matter-today/) - Steve Walton has been a friend for many years—but he is also a great scholar, and has just published a collection of essays on the theology of Acts, and the first volume of his Word commentary on Acts. So I thought it was a good time to ask him about his study, Acts as a
- [The Holy Spirit, Peter, and Cornelius in Acts 11](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/the-holy-spirit-peter-and-cornelius-in-acts-11/) - On Easter 5 in Year C, we find that once again the Sunday lectionary points us towards the reading from Acts as an important point of focus in the post-Easter narrative. The reading ‘which must be used as either the first or the second reading’ is Acts 11.1–18, the final episode in the ‘Petrine narrative’
- [The Holy Spirit, Peter, and Cornelius in Acts 11 video discussion](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/the-holy-spirit-peter-and-cornelius-in-acts-11-video-discussion/) - The lectionary reading for Easter 5 in Year C is Acts 11.1–18, Peter's recounting of the story of his meeting with Cornelius. From Easter to Pentecost, we are encouraged to focus on these readings from Acts. This text comes at a pivotal moment in the story of Acts. It is part of the last major
- [Where is the Trinity in the Book of Revelation?](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/where-is-the-trinity-in-the-book-of-revelation/) - The Book of Revelation is the most explicitly Trinitarian book of the New Testament. Amongst its complex cast of characters in the narrative of the text, it presents God (the Father, the 'one seated on the throne'), Jesus (either named, or presented symbolically as the lamb slain and standing, or the rider on the white
- [Why is friendship so important and transformative?](https://www.psephizo.com/life-ministry/why-is-friendship-so-important-and-transformative/) - Earlier in the year, I was at a conference listening to John Wyatt, the well-known Christian medical ethicist. He spoke about the importance of friendship, and I bought and read his fascinating book Transforming Friendship. Ed Shaw was also there, and had been very influenced by the book, so I asked him some questions about both
- [How should the Church respond to race?](https://www.psephizo.com/life-ministry/how-should-the-church-respond-to-race/) - Last week the Archbishops’ Anti-Racism Taskforce published its report ‘From Lament to Action’ proposing a suite of changes to begin bringing about a change of culture in the life of the Church of England. A draft version of the report came to the Archbishops' Council, so we knew the main proposals it would include. It
- [Why is the raising of Tabitha in Acts 9 important?](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/why-is-the-raising-of-tabitha-in-acts-9-important/) - The lectionary readings for Easter 4 in Year C include three substantial readings: Acts 9.36-43, Revelation 7.9-17 and John 10.22-30. There is a note which says: 'The reading from Acts must be used as either the first or second reading', which suggests that this reading is thought to be particularly important—and this is characteristic of
- [Where is the cross and atonement found in the Book of Revelation?](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/where-is-the-cross-and-atonement-found-in-the-book-of-revelation/) - Any discussion of ‘the cross’ in the Book of Revelation immediately faces a substantial challenge: in contrast with almost every other book in the New Testament, it is barely mentioned at all overtly. Its solitary explicit appearance comes in an extended prophetic narrative in chapter 11: the bodies of the ‘two witnesses’ will ‘lie in
- [The 153 fish, the three 'loves', and the one call to follow in John 21](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/the-153-fish-the-three-loves-and-the-one-call-to-follow-in-john-21/) - =
- [How not to run an election: Canterbury Diocese Vacancy-in-See Elections](https://www.psephizo.com/life-ministry/how-not-to-run-an-election-canterbury-diocese-vacancy-in-see-elections/) - Summary Andrew Goddard writes: Election processes are of limited interest to most people but it is a matter of serious concern when they go wrong. This is especially the case if they are important elections such as those with an impact on who will be the next Archbishop of Canterbury. On the basis of the
- [What is going wrong with the Canterbury appointment process?](https://www.psephizo.com/life-ministry/what-is-going-wrong-with-the-canterbury-appointment-process/) - Andrew Goddard writes: Given the events in Canterbury diocese set out in my previous articles (here and here) I was expecting the result of the election of the Canterbury Vacancy in See Committee (ViSC) might raise further concerns—but I did not foresee just how many and how serious they would be. Thankfully few people have
- [The 'conversion' of Paul in Acts 9 video discussion](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/the-conversion-of-paul-in-acts-9-video-discussion/) - The lectionary reading for Easter 3 in Year C is Acts 9, the so-called conversion of Saul/Paul. These readings from Acts are prioritized, so that we are encouraged to preach from them in this season (despite it coming before Pentecost!). Is it right to talk about Paul being 'converted'? What does this change involve—what is
- [What do we learn from so-called 'doubting' Thomas in John 20](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/what-do-we-learn-from-so-called-doubting-thomas-in-john-20/) - The Sunday gospel lectionary reading for the Second Sunday in Easter is John 20.19–31, which includes Jesus' encounter with so-called 'doubting Thomas'. It is the set reading for this week in all three years of the lectionary, so we know it well—and need to reflect on it if we are going to preach effectively on
- [Integrating young people into the whole church](https://www.psephizo.com/reviews/integrating-young-people-into-the-whole-church/) - Individual instruments playing on their own sound good—but there is nothing quite like the sound of a full orchestra to engage us. The same is true for our life as the church of God. Why would we keep young people in their own groups when we are intended to play together? In this interview, Gareth
- [The Supreme Court ruling on 'sex': no more 'Humpty Dumpty'](https://www.psephizo.com/sexuality-2/the-supreme-court-ruling-on-sex-no-more-humpty-dumpty/) - Mark Bratton writes: In Lewis Carroll’s Through the Looking Glass, Humpty Dumpty scornfully says to his conversation partner Alice, “When I use a word, it means what I choose it to mean – neither more or less” “The question is”, said Alice, “whether you can make words mean so many different things.” “The question is”,
- [Is there a 'Quiet Revival' taking place in England and Wales?](https://www.psephizo.com/life-ministry/is-there-a-quiet-revival-taking-place-in-england-and-wales/) - I interviewed Dr Rhiannon McAleer about the Bible Society's report 'A Quiet Revival'. We started by looking at the headlines from the report, then I pressed her about questions of methodology and whether the findings are robust, before we explored some of the encouragements and challenges arising for the church and church leaders. You can
- [Do the gospel accounts of Holy Week make sense?](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/do-the-gospel-accounts-of-holy-week-make-sense/) - Have you ever sat and read through the gospel accounts of Passion Week, and tried to work out chronologically what is happening? And have you done that with the four gospels? (It is easiest to do that latter using a synopsis, either in print or using this one online.) Why not do it as part of
- [Encountering the risen Jesus by the empty tomb in John 20](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/encountering-the-risen-jesus-by-the-empty-tomb-in-john-20/) - The discovery by two disciples of the empty tomb, and Mary Magdelene's encounter with Jesus, in John 20.1–18, is one of the main options for the gospel reading for Easter Sunday in both Year A and Year C (the alternative is Luke 24.1–12; in Year B we have the short ending of Mark 16). And
- [Should the Church Commissioners pay slavery reparations? Further questions](https://www.psephizo.com/life-ministry/should-the-church-commissioners-pay-slavery-reparations-further-questions/) - Project Spire is the name that has been given to the Church Commissioner's decision to put aside £100m of their investments to be directed to working with and for communities affected by historic transatlantic slavery, with the intention that it creates a lasting legacy. The £100 million, which will be built up over the 9-year
- [Understanding (No) Palm Sunday in Luke 19](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/understanding-no-palm-sunday-in-luke-19/) - This year, Year C in the lectionary, Palm Sunday is cancelled, so you need to do away with your palm crosses, and change the choice of hymns. The reason is that we are reading from Luke 19.28–40, and Luke makes no mention of 'palms' during Jesus' 'triumphal entry' in Jerusalem, riding on a donkey. Instead,
- [The humility of Jesus in Phil 2 video discussion](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/the-humility-of-jesus-in-phil-2-video-discussion/) - The NT epistle reading for Palm Sunday in this Year 3 is the so-called 'Christ hymn' in Phil 2.5–11. This is a fitting parallel to the account of Jesus' non-triumphal entry into Jerusalem in Luke 19.28–40. The introduction to this 'hymn' is also very carefully poetically structured, which suggests that the whole passage is by
- [Can we imagine a future together? A review](https://www.psephizo.com/sexuality-2/can-we-imagine-a-future-together-a-review/) - Michael Hayden writes: Bishop Martyn Snow, Lead Bishop for LLF, has just published a booklet. The challenge is in the title: can we possibly imagine a future in which we can stay together in the Church of England—or is it time to give up and separate? Bishop Martyn has spent a considerable amount of time
- [Why does Notre Dame matter?](https://www.psephizo.com/life-ministry/why-does-notre-dame-matter/) - Isabelle Hamley writes: Growing up in France, I never really thought of Notre-Dame de Paris as the best French cathedral. Or the best example of early gothic architecture. Or even a place of deep spiritual meaning for me. It was – well, that’s it, it just, was. And so I wasn’t really prepared for the
- [The best long-term strategy for church growth](https://www.psephizo.com/life-ministry/the-best-long-term-strategy-for-church-growth/) - There are three questions which come up in relation to the growth of religious movements, particularly the Christian faith. How would you answer each of these? a. Why is Islam growing in the UK and in the world at the moment? b. What was the primary reason for the growth of the early church? c.
- [What does Jesus' anointing at Bethany in John 12 mean?](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/what-does-jesus-anointing-at-bethany-in-john-12-mean/) - This Sunday gospel lectionary reading for Lent 5 in Year C takes a break from our reading of Luke's gospel to focus on the anointing of Jesus in Bethany by Mary, sister of Martha and Lazarus, in John 12.1–8. (If anyone can explain this move, I would love to hear!). This is an unusual narrative
- [Paul's great exchange in Phil 3 video discussion](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/pauls-great-exchange-in-phil-3-video-discussion/) - The NT Epistle reading for Lent 5 (sometimes called Passion Sunday) is Paul's account of his 'great reversal'. (The gospel reading is the anointing at Bethany in John 12). Paul uses the language of 'the flesh' here as he has done in 2 Cor 5 to talk about mere human evaluation of things. On the
- [Is 'compassionate orthodoxy' the way forward for the Church of England on sexuality?](https://www.psephizo.com/sexuality-2/is-compassionate-orthodoxy-the-way-forward-for-the-church-of-england-on-sexuality/) - Christopher Landau was a liberal on sexuality—until he visited a gay bar in Chicago and talked to the people there about what their life was actually like. This made him go back to Scripture and theology, and understand why the historic Christian understanding of marriage was actually the only path to flourishing. He believes that,
- [Did Jesus teach in Greek?](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/did-jesus-teach-in-greek/) - The question of whether Jesus spoke and taught in Greek has, at times in the past, been a subject of serious debate. But for some reason this issue has disappeared from serious consideration, at just the time in NT studies which is actually quite hospitable to the suggestion. The fact that Jesus spoke Aramaic is
- [Reconciliation is the gospel in 2 Corinthians 5 video discussion](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/reconciliation-is-the-gospel-in-2-corinthians-5-video-discussion/) - The Sunday lectionary NT epistle for Lent 4 is 2 Cor 5.16–21. The gospel lectionary reading is Luke 15.1-3, 11b-32, the parable of the Forgiving Father (or the Prodigal Son), which works well with it. Many people will be preaching on the theme of Mothering Sunday—but that is in danger of missing out on this
- [How is the Prodigal Son's loving father portrayed in Luke 15?](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/how-is-the-prodigal-sons-loving-father-portrayed-in-luke-15/) - The Sunday gospel lectionary reading for Lent 4 in Year C is the parable of the prodigal son in Luke 15.1–3 and 11b–32, though it is perhaps as well called the parable of the loving father, or the parable of the father and the two sons. (The NT epistle is 2 Cor 5.16–21, Paul's exposition
- [Is there progress on the appointment of a new Archbishop?](https://www.psephizo.com/life-ministry/is-there-progress-on-the-appointment-of-a-new-archbishop/) - Andrew Goddard writes: Since exploring some of the details about how the next Archbishop of Canterbury will be chosen, there have been a number of further developments which are worth highlighting. Although we have to wait until “early April” for the names of the 5 Communion members (selected several months ago) and confirmation of the
- [The Hidden Limits of Class in the Church](https://www.psephizo.com/life-ministry/the-hidden-limits-of-class-in-the-church/) - John Smith writes: My wife sent me a text message a few months ago: ‘Could this be a possibility?’ Attached was an advertisement for a teaching post at a theological college. She thought that here was an opportunity, in that the college was giving preference to candidates who were female, from a non-white ethnic background,
- [Why do bad things happen to good people in Luke 13?](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/why-do-bad-things-happen-to-good-people-in-luke-13-2/) - The Sunday lectionary reading for the Third Sunday in Lent in Year C is Luke 13.1–9, where Jesus is questioned by his disciples about disaster bought on people by the wickedness of another, and Jesus extends the discussion into the question of disaster brought on by natural calamity. Though pertinent at the present moment because
- [Is Church of England ministry sustainable?](https://www.psephizo.com/life-ministry/is-church-of-england-ministry-sustainable/) - Bishops and dioceses are finally rebelling against the central control of decision making imposed by the Church Commissioners (and the Archbishops' Council) upon them. At least that is the impression you might get from reading the Church Times this week. Dioceses ready to take back purse strings from centre, Dr Gibbs tells Rochester synod The
- [Paul's warnings in 1 Corinthians 10 video discussion](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/pauls-warnings-in-1-corinthians-10-video-discussion/) - The Sunday lectionary NT epistle for Lent 3 is 1 Cor 10.1–13. The gospel lectionary reading is Luke 13.1–9. Paul engages in his characteristic Christological reading, drawing parallels between the experience of Israel on their Exodus journey through the wilderness and the experience of the new Israel in Jesus as they share bread and wine.
- [How is diversity woven into the story of Scripture?](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/how-is-diversity-woven-into-the-story-of-scripture/) - I write a quarterly column for Preach magazine, in which I explore a significant word, phrase, or idea in the Bible, or a theme or section of Scripture, and the ideas that it expresses. At the end of this piece I list the previous articles I have written for them. Here I explore the importance
- [Who is included in and who is excluded from the kingdom in Luke 13?](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/who-is-included-in-and-who-is-excluded-from-the-kingdom-in-luke-13/) - The gospel lectionary reading for Lent 2 in this Year C is Luke 13.31–35, and once again the lectionary does us something of a disservice by cutting this short passage off from its surrounding narrative. That is not such a problem in relation to what follows, since Luke begins chapter 14 with a clear narrative
- [Good and bad examples to follow in Phil 3 video discussion](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/good-and-bad-examples-to-follow-in-phil-3-video-discussion/) - The Sunday lectionary NT epistle for Lent 2 is Phil 3.17–4.1. It follows on from the better-known autobiographical passage—which we will discuss in three week's time in Lent 5. Paul uses neologisms—words that he appears to have created—to urge his readers together to imitate his example, and the examples of his co-workers, and avoid the
- [Reclaiming social justice from toxic identity politics](https://www.psephizo.com/life-ministry/reclaiming-social-justice-from-toxic-identity-politics/) - Jon Kuhrt writes: Last week I was at Kings Cross station in London waiting for a train when a middle-aged man called Martin approached me begging for cash. I explained that I did not give money but would be happy to buy him something to eat and drink. Martin accepted this offer and as we
- [How and when should we fast this Lent?](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/how-and-when-should-we-fast-this-lent/) - At the beginning of Lent, it is traditional to consider taking up a spiritual discipline for the season—or perhaps giving something up. I have just read a number of posts telling me of friends who are giving up on social media until Easter. (I personally find that odd; it is like saying 'I am giving
- [Should Christians share in Muslim Iftar meals?](https://www.psephizo.com/life-ministry/should-christians-share-in-muslim-iftar-meals/) - It might seem odd that the question of whether Christians should join in iftar meals with their Muslim neighbours is a pressing one for the Church in the UK. But following the hosting of a Grand Iftar, to mark the end of the Muslim season of Ramadan, at Southwark Cathedral, reaction appears to have been
- [The testing of Jesus according to Luke 4](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/the-testing-of-jesus-according-to-luke-4/) - The Sunday gospel lectionary reading for Lent 1 in Year C is Luke 4.1–13, Luke's account of the temptation of Jesus in the desert. (The link to the video discussion of this passage can be found at the end of this article. For commentary on the NT epistle reading, Rom 10.8b–13, see the video discussion
- [The righteousness that comes by faith in Romans 10 video discussion](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/the-righteousness-that-comes-by-faith-in-romans-10-video-discussion/) - The NT epistle for the First Sunday of Lent (Lent 1) in Year C is Romans 8b–13. It is a slightly odd choice by the lectionary, since the passage starts in verse 5, and you really need to read from there. Paul does two important things as he reads the Old Testament. First, he notices
- [What does Paul's Christ-hymn in Philippians 2 actually tell us?](https://www.psephizo.com/reviews/what-does-pauls-christ-hymn-in-philippians-2-actually-tell-us/) - Tim Murray writes: Philippians 2.6-11 (often known as the ‘Philippian Christ Hymn’) is one of the most important texts in the New Testament for our Christology. It seems to speak of the pre-existence of Jesus being “in the form of God”, who did not count this as “something to be grasped/held on to/exploited” but instead
- [Tyndale NT Study Group 2025: Eschatology in the New Testament](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/tyndale-nt-study-group-2025-eschatology-in-the-new-testament/) - Eschatology—the question of the 'last days' or 'last things'—is a central theological theme in the New Testament. It frames Jesus’ proclamation of the kingdom of God in the gospels, and in the epistles provides the grounding of our understanding of both discipleship in the present and hope for the future. In previous generations, its importance has often been marginalised, and in contemporary scholarship and popular reading, many aspects of eschatology are highly contested. The Tyndale New Testament Study Group is meeting to explore this from Monday 30th June to Wednesday 2nd July 2025 at The Hays Conference Centre in Derbyshire. It is close to the M1 and can be reached by train to Alfreton station. It is an excellent site, with good accommodation and beautiful grounds, and within easy reach of the beautiful Peak District for walking. We will be meeting simultaneously with other groups, so there a chance to interact with members across the whole of the Tyndale Fellowship. It promises to be a fascinating exploration, with an international cast of contributors—we hope you can join us! You can book online here, and there are discounted rates available until 7th February 2025. The programme will include the following: Discussion: Eschatology in the Thessalonian Letters In this session we welcome Bruce Longenecker and Sydney Tooth to share their ongoing research in this area following their 20204 publications. Sydney’s monograph addresses the compatibility of the eschatology of 1 and 2 Thessalonians (Suddenness and Signs: The Eschatologies of 1 and 2 Thessalonians, Mohr Siebeck 2024) and Bruce’s articles reimagine the socio-historical context of the founding of the Thessalonian church (“The Rupture of an Association: Social Conflict and Its Management in the Thessalonian Christ Assembly.” Journal of Biblical Literature 2024; “The Wrath of the Deities and The Privileged Deceased: Narrating Death in the Associational Rupture at Thessalonica.” NTS 2024). We will have a chance to unpack, discuss and debate their work with them as part of our time together. Other papers: Aminta Arrington (John Brown University, Arkansas): The Last Shall Be First: Overturning Banquet Etiquette and Enacting Eschatological Reversal in Luke 14 Armin D. Baum (Freie Theologische Hochschule, Gießen, Germany): Where Do the Persistent Disagreements between German-speaking and English-speaking Biblical Scholarship Come from? A Sociological Answer Based on the History of Research on 2 Thessalonians
- [How will the next Archbishop of Canterbury be chosen?](https://www.psephizo.com/life-ministry/how-will-the-next-archbishop-of-canterbury-be-chosen/) - Andrew Goddard writes: This article looks at who will be choosing the next Archbishop and how they get a seat on the Crown Nominations Commission (CNC). Although only one of the 17 names has been officially announced, another 5 can be identified. There are five different categories with different processes of selection in each and
- [What is the meaning of the transfiguration in Luke 9?](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/what-is-the-meaning-of-the-transfiguration-in-luke-9/) - The Sunday lectionary gospel reading for the last Sunday before Lent in this Year C is Luke 9.28–36, this gospel's account of the Transfiguration, with the option of continuing to read the episode that follows immediately on the descent from the mountain. There some important things to note in relation to this passage as we think
- [The unveiled glory of Jesus in 2 Cor 3 video discussion](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/the-unveiled-glory-of-jesus-in-2-cor-3-video-discussion/) - The NT epistle for the Sunday next before Lent is 2 Corinthians 3.12–4.2, in which Paul draws a comparison between Moses' encounter with God in Ex 34 and our encounter with God in the person of Jesus, using the metaphor of the 'veil being removed'. There are clear connections with the gospel passage, which is
- [How does the hope of seeing God transform the present?](https://www.psephizo.com/reviews/how-does-the-hope-of-seeing-god-transform-the-present/) - Andy Griffiths has recently written a fascinating Grove booklet on The Hope of Seeing God: The Beatific Vision and Formation. Rather than look at the past of our creation, or the present of the work of the Spirit in effective transformation as disciples of Jesus, is raises the question of whether we should think more
- [The worship of God in Revelation 4 video and commentary](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/the-worship-of-god-in-revelation-4-video-and-commentary/) - The NT epistle for the Second Sunday before Lent is Rev 4, the first half (with Rev 5) of John's vision and audition (seeing and hearing) of worship 'in heaven' as he is 'in the Spirit'. This is a fascinating passage, in part because it is so dense with theological ideas, but also because this
- [Jesus stilling the storm in Luke 8](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/jesus-stilling-the-storm-in-luke-8/) - The Sunday gospel lectionary reading for the Second Sunday before Lent in Year C is Luke 8.22–25, the concise account by Luke of Jesus stilling the storm. (It is worth noting that the ecumenical lectionary has a different set of readings; apparently for the Church of England it was thought that there was not enough
- [What did General Synod decide about safeguarding?](https://www.psephizo.com/life-ministry/what-did-general-synod-decide-about-safeguarding/) - Unless you have been living under a rock, you will be aware that safeguarding has been a deeply contentious issue in the Church of England for several years, and has come to a head over the last few months and weeks. Justin Welby resigned as Archbishop of Canterbury because of his failure to take action
- [Making sense of the Beatitudes in Luke 6](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/making-sense-of-the-beatitudes-in-luke-6/) - The Sunday lectionary reading for the Third Sunday before Lent in Year C is Luke 6.17–26, this gospel's version of the Beatitudes. The epistle is 1 Cor 11.11–22, and you can watch the video discussion of that passage here. One of the most obvious questions arising from the gospel reading is how they relate to
- [The centrality of the resurrection in 1 Cor 15 video discussion](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/the-centrality-of-the-resurrection-in-1-cor-15-video-discussion/) - The NT epistle for the Third Sunday before Lent is 1 Cor 15.11–22, which follows from our reading two weeks ago. The focus on hope of resurrection as central to Christian faith complements the gospe reading of Luke 6 and his version of the Beatitudes. This section of 1 Cor 15 is fascinating, since Paul
- [The Bishop of Liverpool: outstanding questions that need answers](https://www.psephizo.com/life-ministry/the-bishop-of-liverpool-outstanding-questions-that-need-answers/) - Andrew Goddard writes: After summarising the tumultuous events of last week in relation to the Bishop of Liverpool, in this article I set out what is currently known in relation to the CNC process that led to his nomination. Two further sections outline the allegations of sexual assault and sexual harassment made by two women
- [What does the miraculous catch of fish in Luke 5 mean?](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/what-does-the-miraculous-catch-of-fish-in-luke-5-mean/) - The Sunday gospel lectionary reading for the fourth Sunday before Lent in Year C is Luke 5.1–11, the story of the miraculous catch of fish, as we jump forward into Jesus’ ministry before returning to the temptations in the desert at the start of Lent. It is a captivating story in its own right, but
- [Paul's gospel tradition in 1 Corinthians 15](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/pauls-gospel-tradition-in-1-corinthians-15/) - The lectionary epistle reading for the Fourth Sunday before Lent in Year C is 1 Corinthians 15.1–11. Paul here offers a summary of the gospel that he has both received and passed on to the Corinthians—and it has some fascinating features. What is the role here of the 'gospel tradition'? What are the key elements
- [Why is the PLF Process Proving So Prolonged and Painful?](https://www.psephizo.com/sexuality-2/why-is-the-plf-process-proving-so-prolonged-and-painful/) - Andrew Goddard offers an update, diagnosis and proposal. A more detailed analysis is available as a PDF here. Summary In the light of the House of Bishops stating that there will be no further decisions on PLF in either the February or July General Synods this year and the new papers just released, this article
- [Weaponised Kindness and the Language of the Cult](https://www.psephizo.com/life-ministry/weaponised-kindness-and-the-language-of-the-cult/) - Mike Starkey writes: For the first decade of the 2000s I was a vicar in suburban southwest London. Part of my inheritance from the previous regime was a church with close links to a cult. It was a very British kind of cult, with an emphasis on high culture, old-fashioned values and the 1662 Prayer
- [The humanity of Jesus in Hebrews 2 video discussion](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/the-humanity-of-jesus-in-hebrews-2-video-discussion/) - The NT epistle for Candlemas, or the Presentation of Jesus in the temple, is Heb 2.14–18. With its emphasis on the humanity of Jesus, it complements the gospel reading of Luke 2.22–40. Hebrews can be a challenging read, with dense theological ideas and unusual grammar, but it is also compelling and memorable. The author (whom
- [Does sex matter? What is it for?](https://www.psephizo.com/sexuality-2/does-sex-matter-what-is-it-for/) - In 2017, I was invited to a church in Hull to do a morning's teaching giving an overview of what the Bible said about sex. It was fascinating to have to offer such an overview—not least because it made me realise how important this is, and how rarely it is done. I turned this into
- [Belonging and interdependence in the body of Christ in 1 Cor 12](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/belonging-and-interdependence-in-the-body-of-christ-in-1-cor-12/) - The lectionary readings for Epiphany 3 in this Year C are 1 Cor 12.12–31a, and Luke 4.14–21, where Jesus returns from the desert 'in the power of the Spirit' and reads from Isaiah in the synagogue at Nazareth. If you are using the gospel reading, you can find commentary on that passage (together with a video discussion) here. The passage in 1 Cor 12.12f flows directly on from last week's reading, so if you are using this, then you will have a strong sense of continuity. The lectionary is not design to offer continuous readings, but it is nice when it happens! This does give the opening of the reading a slightly odd feel if you are reading it on its own, since it starts with a typically Pauline strong logical connective 'For...' or 'Therefore...' (Gk gar) '...just as...' The previous section, from 1 Cor 12.4–11, has held together the diversity of gifts and ministries within the community of faith and their common bond by means of the image of the one Spirit giving many diverse gifts. Here, Paul shifts the image to make similar and related points by focussing on what it means to be 'in Christ'; he does not use this favorite phrase in this passage, but this is the implication of being 'part of the body'. We are so used to the metaphor of the people of God as 'the body of Christ' that we fail to recognize how novel and striking this is. Paul will go on in chapter 15 (which we will look at in two weeks' time) to rehearse the things 'of first importance' which centre around Jesus' bodily death, burial, and resurrection, and how so many, most of whom are still alive, saw Jesus in his risen body. So talking of the Christians gathered together in their meetings in Corinth as 'the body of Christ' is actually striking and jarring. Imagine talking about the church you are in as 'the body of the vicar'! It would be rather startling.
- [Belonging and interdependence in the body of Christ in 1 Cor 12 video discussion](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/belonging-and-interdependence-in-the-body-of-christ-in-1-cor-12-video-discussion/) - The NT epistle for Epiphany 3 in this year C continues reading 1 Cor 12.12–31a. Here, Paul expands his themes of unity and diversity of ministry, but shifts the register from 'gifts of the Spirit' to 'members of the body'. In doing so, he makes surprising use of an existing metaphor from ancient politics, but
- [What is Justin Welby's legacy to the Church of England?](https://www.psephizo.com/life-ministry/what-is-justin-welbys-legacy-to-the-church-of-england/) - When Justin Welby announced his intention to resign as Archbishop of Canterbury, and again when he stepped down on 6th January, a number of assessments of his time in office were published. I want to offer my own here, not in order to undertake any kind of character assassination, but to try and make some
- [The gifts of the Spirit in 1 Corinthians 12](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/the-gifts-of-the-spirit-in-1-corinthians-12/) - The lectionary New Testament readings for the coming week, Epiphany 2 in Year C, are 1 Corinthians 12.1-11 and John 2.1-11. For written commentary on John 2 (the wedding at Cana), see here, and for the video discussion of John 2 see here. (The sound quality leaves something to be desired—but the quality of the
- [The gifts of the Spirit in 1 Corinthians 12 video discussion](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/the-gifts-of-the-spirit-in-1-corinthians-12-video-discussion/) - The NT epistle reading for Epiphany 2 in Year C is 1 Cor 12.1–11. Although well-known in some circles, this might be a less familiar reading in others. It appears to be about 'spiritual gifts', but Paul redefines the discussion by casting it as teaching about what it means to be spiritual, and roots it
- [Where do we find the Holy Spirit in the Lord's Prayer?](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/where-do-we-find-the-holy-spirit-in-the-lords-prayer/) - A little while ago I had a curious discussion with someone online. Commenting on one of the events for Remembrance, I noted that the prayer said by the Christian leader took the form of a general invocation of a deity, but wasn't actually a Christian prayer. 'What do you mean by a Christian prayer?'
- [Does the Bible prohibit sex before marriage?](https://www.psephizo.com/sexuality-2/does-the-bible-prohibit-sex-before-marriage/) - In my experience, there is a very broad range of answers to this question. It has generally been assumed by moral 'conservatives' that the answer is self-evidently 'yes'; by contrast, it has generally been assumed by moral 'liberals' that the answer is 'no', since there does not appear to be any specific prohibition in Scripture.
- [Richard Hays: Theologian of the Cross, Member of the New Community](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/richard-hays-theologian-of-the-cross-member-of-the-new-community/) - Wesley Hill explores why the New Testament scholar’s legacy echoes beyond the halls of the academy: “[T]he meaning of Scripture is ultimately written on the tablets of fleshy hearts,” wrote Richard Hays in the conclusion to his groundbreaking book Echoes of Scripture in the Letters of Paul. This statement was true not only of the
- [The baptism of Jesus, John, and judgement in Luke 3](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/the-baptism-of-jesus-john-and-judgement-in-luke-3/) - The gospel lectionary reading for the First Sunday of Epiphany/the Baptism of Christ in this Year C is Luke 3.15–17, 21–22. We have recently been exploring Luke 3 during Advent, having read the first six verses of this chapter with the announcement of John the Baptist's ministry in Advent 2, and the detail of his
- [The baptism of Jesus, John, and judgement in Luke 3 video discussion](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/the-baptism-of-jesus-john-and-judgement-in-luke-3-video-discussion/) - The Sunday lectionary reading for Epiphany 1, which is the Baptism of Christ, is Luke 3.15–17 and 21–22. The reading feels odd, since it was back in Advent when we read the previous verses in Luke 3 over two Sundays, and this sets the context for our passage. The lectionary also drops the verses about
- [What is the future of the Anglican Communion?](https://www.psephizo.com/life-ministry/what-is-the-future-of-the-anglican-communion/) - The Inter-Anglican Standing Commission on Unity, Faith and Order (IASCUFO) has recently published the Nairobi-Cairo proposals for reimagining the Anglican Communion. Here Andrew Atherstone, one of the contributors to the proposals, explains why they deserve a fair hearing and how they might bear good fruit. I have a dream for the Anglican Communion. It is
- [What is 'the Word of God'?](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/what-is-the-word-of-god/) - I have started writing a column for Preach magazine, in which I explore a significant word or phrase in the Bible and the ideas that it expresses. The first one was on the phrase 'Word of God'. Despite the fact that many churches use this phrase with reference to the reading of Scripture, its meaning
- [This year I want to be more like...which Jesus?](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/this-year-i-want-to-be-more-like-which-jesus/) - I wrote a first version of this article (revised in the light of comments) five years ago, in response to people posting online the list on the right. Surprisingly, this is still being reposted as an expression of New Year's resolutions. When I gently challenging it, one friend said that it is a good antidote
- [Where is the Church of England going on race and ethnicity?](https://www.psephizo.com/life-ministry/where-is-the-church-of-england-going-on-race-and-ethnicity/) - John Root offers his analysis of the recent report: ‘Behind the Stained Glass: A Report on the participation of UK Minoritised Ethnic People in the Ministry and Leadership of the Church of England’, written for the Racial Justice Commission of the Church of England by Professor Paul Miller and associates of the Institute for Educational
- [The meaning of Epiphany in Matt 2: myth or reality?](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/the-meaning-of-epiphany-in-matt-2-myth-or-reality/) - I am reposting here my annual collection of resources on the Epiphany, the visit of the magi to the young Jesus, as recorded in Matthew 2. The article is in three sections, plus a link to our video discussion. First, a general exploration of the role it plays in the nativity story in Matthew, and
- [Jesus amongst the teachers in the temple in Luke 2](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/jesus-amongst-the-teachers-in-the-temple-in-luke-2/) - The Christmas season is now with us! The reading for the first Sunday in the Christmas season (Christmas 1) is Luke 2.41–52—though it is arguable that we should actually start our reading at verse 40, since it forms an ‘inclusio’ (bracket) with the final verse of the reading. At every point in this reading, we
- [Jesus and the teachers in the temple in Luke 2 video discussion](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/jesus-and-the-teachers-in-the-temple-in-luke-2-video-discussion/) - The Christmas season is now with us! The reading for the first Sunday in the Christmas season (Christmas 1) is Luke 2.41–52—though it is arguable that we should actually start our reading at verse 40, since it forms an 'inclusio' (bracket) with the final verse of the reading. This is a very carefully crafted passage,
- [Was Luke mistaken about the date of Jesus' birth?](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/was-luke-mistaken-about-the-date-of-jesus-birth-2/) - A few years ago I watched the film Gravity when it came out. The effects were spectacular, the photography breathtaking, the characterisations engaging, and the story held one’s attention throughout. It even raised some profound (religious?) questions about life, death and purpose. And yet, when I left the cinema, I could not decide whether I
- [Rapture, tribulation, and the end of the world](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/rapture-tribulation-and-the-end-of-the-world/) - When a student in Oxford in the 1980s, I walked into a church bookshop and picked up a landscape-format book full of complex diagrams. It was setting out the seven dispensations of history, apparently according to the Bible, in which God gave humanity in each era a distinct challenge, which it failed, and a unique
- [What kind of writing is the Book of Revelation? (i)](https://www.psephizo.com/revelation/what-kind-of-writing-is-the-book-of-revelation-i/) - I have written a chapter for a book coming out next year offering a faithful reading of Revelation but engaging with the critical (in both senses of that term) questions around this book. My chapter is on the genre of Revelation—what kind of writing is it?—and in this first half of the chapter I explore
- [Should churches grow?](https://www.psephizo.com/life-ministry/should-churches-grow/) - Two articles were recently published by Al Barrett, Rector of Hodge Hill Church in east Birmingham, arguing (slightly tongue-in-cheek?) that we should establish an 'anti-growth coalition' in the Church of England, as a protest against the constant language of 'we must grow' coming from the centre. The first was his own article, 'Simpler, Humbler, Bolder?'
- [What happens when we die?](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/what-happens-when-we-die/) - The latest Grove Biblical booklet is Death and 'Hell' by Paul Marston, and addressed the burning question (!) of what happens when we die, and the nature of death and hell. He begins by exploring why this is such an important question, theologically and pastorally. This booklet considers two distinct questions: (i) what happens immediately after
- [Mary greets Elizabeth and praises God in Luke 1 video discussion](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/mary-greets-elizabeth-and-praises-god-in-luke-1-video-discussion/) - The lectionary gospel reading for Advent 4 in Year C is Luke 1.39-45, with the option of reading on to Luke 1.46-55. Do please take the option of reading the Magnificat; reading the first half without the second would be like going to a Michelin-starred restaurant for dinner and leaving after the starter! Mary's encounter
- [Mary greets Elizabeth and praises God in Luke 1](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/mary-greets-elizabeth-and-praises-god-in-luke-1/) - The lectionary gospel reading for Advent 4 in Year C is Luke 1.39-45, with the option of reading on to Luke 1.46-55. Do please take the option of reading the Magnificat; reading the first half without the second would be like going to a Michelin-starred restaurant for dinner and leaving after the starter! There are
- [John the Baptist's preaching in Luke 3 video discussion](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/john-the-baptists-preaching-in-luke-3-video-discussion/) - The Sunday gospel lectionary reading for Advent 3 in Year C is Luke 3.7–17, and it follows closely on from last week’s reading; verse begins ‘He therefore said to the crowds…’ which some English translations omit. The content of his teaching raises some fascinating issues about repentance, judgement, and discipleship, and the way in which
- [John the Baptist's preaching in Luke 3](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/john-the-baptists-preaching-in-luke-3/) - The Sunday gospel lectionary reading for Advent 3 in Year C is Luke 3.7–17, and it follows closely on from last week's reading; verse begins 'He therefore said to the crowds...' which some English translations omit. The content of his teaching raises some fascinating issues about repentance, judgement, and discipleship, and the way in which the
- [Finding hope amongst grief and sadness](https://www.psephizo.com/life-ministry/finding-hope-amongst-grief-and-sadness/) - John Bentham was Coordinating Chaplain at the University of Nottingham at the time of his sudden and tragic death on 6th August from a pulmonary embolism. John was well known and much loved in the Diocese of Southwell and Nottingham, having trained at St John's College, Nottingham, been vicar of St Saviour's in the Meadows
- [In what ways is Luke's gospel distinctive?](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/in-what-ways-is-lukes-gospel-distinctive/) - Richard Bauckham writes: This is the text of a sermon I preached originally in Christ Church, Chelsea, in order to introduce the congregation to the Gospel of Luke near the beginning of a year C in the Lectionary (year of Luke). There is one difference between the Gospels that anyone can see quite easily without even reading
- [Why does God allow natural disasters?](https://www.psephizo.com/reviews/why-does-god-allow-natural-disasters/) - Mark Broadway writes: Does suffering matter? This is a question that many will have tried to answer, scouring philosophy textbooks from the safety of the library. Perhaps more importantly, in times of distress and pain, a more poignant question arises from the depths of a heart: does my suffering matter? As a society, we can
- [Is the devotion of Mary better than the service of Martha in Luke 10?](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/is-the-devotion-of-mary-better-than-the-service-of-martha-in-luke-10/) - The short stories told by and about Jesus in the gospels are both attractive and challenging. They are attractive because they are easily memorable (and there is a basic neuroscientific connection between story and memory), because even in their compressed retelling they include compelling characters, and because we are drawn to Jesus' pithy summaries of
- [Can we love God with our mind?](https://www.psephizo.com/life-ministry/can-we-love-god-with-our-mind/) - Is Christian faith about an affective encounter with God, or about becoming convinced about the case for Christianity? You will immediately be crying 'False dichotomy!'—but it is worth reflecting on the balance between these two ideas in contemporary expressions of faith. There was a time when the tradition of rational enquiry was most influential, but
- [The word of the Lord to John the Baptist in Luke 3](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/the-word-of-the-lord-to-john-the-baptist-in-luke-3/) - This Sunday's gospel lectionary reading for Advent 2 in Year C is Luke 3.1–6, the location and opening of John the Baptist's ministry. We will hear more about the content of John's ministry next week; for now, we are just given the setting. During the last year, we have got used to reading Mark by
- [The word of the Lord to John the Baptist in Luke 3 video discussion](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/the-word-of-the-lord-to-john-the-baptist-in-luke-3-video-discussion/) - This Sunday’s gospel lectionary reading for Advent 2 in Year C is Luke 3.1–6, the location and opening of John the Baptist’s ministry. We will hear more about the content of John’s ministry next week; for now, we are just given the setting. But this setting tells us a huge amount about the gospel. The
- [Has the Church forgotten the working class?](https://www.psephizo.com/reviews/has-the-church-forgotten-the-working-class/) - Gary Jenkins has previously written on this website about the Church of England and its struggle to engage with the working class. In 2020, following a debate in General Synod, he concluded with this comment: The really strange thing about the problem of the church’s relationship with the working class is that it is simply
- [Jesus was not born in a stable—and it really does matter!](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/jesus-was-not-born-in-a-stable-and-it-really-does-matter/) - What do you find most irritating about this time of year? The drawing in of dark and cold nights? The hideous adoption of that consumerist import 'Black Friday'? People putting up Christmas trees when we have only just started Advent? Being urged to spend more money by means of schmaltzy human interest mini-dramas? For me,
- [Is Luke 21 about the Second Coming—or something else?](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/is-luke-21-about-the-second-coming-or-something-else/) - Advent is once more upon us (pun intended!), and with it comes two sets of confusion: the idea that Advent is the anticipation of Christmas (when it is really about looking forward to Jesus' return and The End); and the notion that the set passages in the lectionary are all about Jesus' return. As we
- [Is Luke 21 about the Second Coming—or something else? video discussion](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/is-luke-21-about-the-second-coming-or-something-else-video-discussion/) - The Sunday gospel lectionary reading for Advent 1 in Year C is Luke 21.25–36, from this gospel’s version of what is often called the ‘Little Apocalypse’. As usual, we need to read on to put this text in its context to understand both the text itself and how it compares with its parallels in Mark
- [What are Jesus' 'new wineskins'—structures or people?](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/what-are-jesus-new-wineskins-structures-or-people/) - In all three Synoptic gospels, Jesus concludes a conversation about the contrast between his teaching and practice and that of the Pharisees (and John the Baptist) by means of a parable about wine and wineskins. No one sews a patch of unshrunk cloth on an old garment, for the patch will pull away from the
- [What do the shorter letters in the New Testament teach us?](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/what-do-the-shorter-letters-in-the-new-testament-teach-us/) - I write a quarterly column for Preach magazine, in which I explore a significant word or phrase in the Bible, or a theme or section of Scripture, and the ideas that it expresses. At the end of this piece I list the previous articles I have written for them. Here I explore what we can
- [What kind of king is Jesus in John 18 and Daniel 7?](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/what-kind-of-king-is-jesus-in-john-18-and-daniel-7/) - This Sunday, the last of the liturgical year, is Christ the king, and comes immediately before Advent. It is a slightly odd festival, since one of the key themes of Advent is not the anticipation of Christmas, but the anticipation of Jesus’ return as king; the Latin adventus is a translation of the Greek parousia
- [What kind of king is Jesus in John 18 and Daniel 7? video discussion](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/what-kind-of-king-is-jesus-in-john-18-and-daniel-7-video-discussion/) - It is often thought that in John 18 Jesus says 'My kingdom is not of this world'. But this mistranslation is misleading: his kingdom makes itself felt in this world, but the origin of its power and the nature of its exercise is quite different from 'worldy' power. As we celebrate Christ the King on
- [Who will be the next Archbishop of Canterbury?](https://www.psephizo.com/life-ministry/who-will-be-the-next-archbishop-of-canterbury/) - Justin Welby’s resignation as Archbishop of Canterbury is truly unprecedented. No archbishop has ever, in the history of the Church of England, resigned—not even in 1621 when the primate of all England shot and killed a gamekeeper with a crossbow while hunting. It has felt like a very strange week; when I think back to
- [Tyndale NT Study Group 2025: Call for papers on Eschatology](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/tyndale-nt-study-group-2025-call-for-papers-on-eschatology/) - The theme for the Tyndale Fellowship New Testament Study Group in 2025 is Eschatology in the New Testament, and we are meeting from Monday 30th June to Wednesday 2nd July 2025 at the excellent conference facility of The Hayes Conference Centre, Derbyshire, UK. It is easily accessible by train from London, and off the M1 by
- [Is Mark 13 about the end of the world and Jesus' return?](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/is-mark-13-about-the-end-of-the-world-and-jesus-return/) - The Sunday lectionary reading for the Second Sunday before Advent in Year B is Mark 13.1–8. This feels a little odd, in that we last visited Mark 13 all the way back last Advent, when this lectionary year was just beginning, and the reading is quite truncated and only really makes sense when the chapter
- [Is Mark 13 about the end of the world and Jesus' return? video discussion](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/is-mark-13-about-the-end-of-the-world-and-jesus-return-video-discussion/) - Mark 13 is paradoxically a passage many find difficult and challenging—but one of our favourites to talk about! Popular reading takes it to be about the end of the world and Jesus' return—but there are clear indications in the text that this is not the case. When it is read in the context of the
- [Justin Welby, the Makin Report, and the Truth](https://www.psephizo.com/life-ministry/justin-welby-the-makin-report-and-the-truth/) - Note: please see link to sign the petition at the end of this article. Ann Onymous writes: Our late Queen famously once said ‘recollections may vary’. Ever the diplomat. Our current Archbishop was known to be a huge fan of Her Majesty. In a 2021 BBC Newscast interview when he was asked about the need
- [What does Christian theology contribute to the assisted dying debate?](https://www.psephizo.com/life-ministry/what-does-christian-theology-contribute-to-the-assisted-dying-debate/) - A few weeks ago, I was on a discussion panel on a local TV station, and near the end of the hour, the question of assisted dying came up, and (wearing my dog collar) I was asked my views. I felt I was unprepared, and I reached for the common practical issues of care for
- [The God of Small Things](https://www.psephizo.com/life-ministry/the-god-of-small-things/) - I write a quarterly column for Preach magazine, in which I explore a significant word or phrase in the Bible, or a theme or section of Scripture, and the ideas that it expresses. At the end of this piece I list the previous articles I have written for them. Here I explore what Scripture says
- [Travel in the footsteps of St Paul and John the Divine](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/travel-in-the-footsteps-of-st-paul-and-john-the-divine/) - Next summer from Sunday 15th to Tuesday 24th June 2025, I will be co-leading a trip to Turkiye and Greece with my friend Dr Peter Walker, exploring the sites of the seven cities in Revelation, Patmos, Crete, Athens and Corinth. It will be a very exciting, enjoyable, and transformative trip! The brochure summarises: Travelling to
- [Does God's widening mercy contradict biblical sexual ethics?](https://www.psephizo.com/sexuality-2/does-gods-widening-mercy-contradict-biblical-sexual-ethics/) - Andrew Goddard writes: After much pre-publicity, which I reflected on at the time, The Widening of God’s Mercy: Sexuality within the Biblical Story (Yale University Press) has finally appeared. This enables an end to speculation as to why New Testament scholar, Richard B Hays (writing here with his son, Old Testament scholar, Christopher) has changed
- [The call and preaching of Jesus in Mark 1](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/the-call-and-preaching-of-jesus-in-mark-1/) - The Sunday gospel lectionary for the Third Sunday before Advent at the end of this Year B is Mark 1.14-20, the beginning of Jesus' active ministry in Galilee following his baptism in the Jordan and testing in the wilderness. I have to say I have found what the lectionary does with the opening chapter of Mark's
- [The call and preaching of Jesus in Mark 1 video discussion](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/the-call-and-preaching-of-jesus-in-mark-1-video-discussion/) - As we reach the end of the lectionary year, we are going back to the beginning, to where we started in the Gospel of Mark! This reading overlaps with some of the earlier ones in the year, but also patches in the verses that we previously missed out. As usual with Mark, his account is
- [The Archbishop of Canterbury, PLF, Truth and Trust](https://www.psephizo.com/sexuality-2/the-archbishop-of-canterbury-plf-truth-and-trust/) - Andrew Goddard writes: The full interview of Archbishop Justin by Alastair Campbell and Rory Stewart for their The Rest is Politics: Leading podcast was released on Monday including the Archbishop’s answer on “gay sex” which was released (in a very slightly different edit) on TikTok over a week in advance and which I have argued
- [How does Jesus summarise the law of Moses in Mark 12?](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/how-does-jesus-summarise-the-law-of-moses-in-mark-12/) - The Sunday lectionary gospel reading for the Fourth Sunday before Advent in Year B is the dialogue that includes Jesus' summary of the law in Mark 12.28–34. As we count down the lectionary year, preparing to enter Advent with its focus on Jesus' return, Mark is counting down the days and hours to Jesus' trial
- [Does Jesus 'declare all foods clean' in Mark 7.19?](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/does-jesus-declare-all-foods-clean-in-mark-7-19/) - In September, Dr Logan Williams (University of Aberdeen) published a truly fascinating open-access academic article 'The Stomach Purifies All Foods: Jesus’ Anatomical Argument in Mark 7.18–19' in the prestigious journal New Testament Studies. The essay won the Paul J. Achtemeier Award for New Testament Scholarship from the Society of Biblical Literature (the main global Anglophone
- [What does Jesus teach about the food laws in Mark 7?](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/what-does-jesus-teach-about-the-food-laws-in-mark-7/) - The Sunday lectionary reading for Trinity 14 in this Year B is Mark 7.1–8, 14–15, 21–23 (this reading was taking at Trinity 13 three years ago). We have chewed over the feeding of the 5,000 in John 6, and gathered up every last morsel of the 'bread of life' discourse over the last five (five!)
- [How does Jesus summarise the law of Moses in Mark 12? video discussion](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/how-does-jesus-summarise-the-law-of-moses-in-mark-12-video-discussion/) - The Sunday lectionary gospel reading for the Fourth Sunday before Advent in Year B is the dialogue that includes Jesus’ summary of the law in Mark 12.28–34. Offering this kind of summary was not uncommon in Second Temple Judaism, and we have a number of other examples of this. But Jesus' response is striking in
- [Blind Bartimaeus is healed in Mark 10](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/blind-bartimaeus-is-healed-in-mark-10/) - The gospel lectionary reading for the so-called Last Sunday after Trinity (or Trinity 22) in Year B is the story of the healing of blind Bartimaeus in Mark 10.46–52. This reading has an appeal at two levels. First, it is in Mark's usual lively and direct style, and has a similar feeling to some of
- [What do the letters of John teach us about faith, hope, and love?](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/what-do-the-letters-of-john-teach-us-about-faith-hope-and-love/) - The letters of John form a remarkable collection of writing, usually place towards the end of the New Testament. The imagery is powerful; the language is engaging; and the teaching is immensely practical. I can still remember the impact of studying these letters in a small group not long after I came to faith as
- [Blind Bartimaeus is healed in Mark 10 video discussion](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/blind-bartimaeus-is-healing-in-mark-10-video-discussion/) - The gospel lectionary reading for the so-called Last Sunday after Trinity (or Trinity 22) in this Year B is the story of the healing of blind Bartimaeus in Mark 10.46–52. This reading has an appeal at two levels. First, it is in Mark’s usual lively and direct style, and has a similar feeling to some
- [James and John and greatness in the kingdom in Mark 10](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/james-and-john-and-greatness-in-the-kingdom-in-mark-10/) - The gospel lectionary reading for Trinity 21 in this Year B is Mark 10.35–45. The lectionary choice is unfortunate this week, in that it cuts out the verses following last week’s read, Mark 10.32–34. Not only do these verses provide continuity with last week’s reading about the (rich) (young) (ruler) man, but they are an
- [Why We Need to Talk about Clergy Well-being](https://www.psephizo.com/life-ministry/why-we-need-to-talk-about-clergy-well-being/) - Sean Cathie has just written an important Grove booklet on The Clergy’s Experience of Pastoral Care in the Grove Pastoral series. I have become acutely aware of the importance of this issue from travelling and speaking to clergy, and from my work on General Synod and the Archbishops' Council. One of the factors has been the
- [Can Parliament force the C of E to change its doctrine of marriage?](https://www.psephizo.com/sexuality-2/can-parliament-force-the-c-of-e-to-change-its-doctrine-of-marriage/) - Labour MP Ben Bradshaw has called for the Church of England to change its doctrine of marriage or face the threat of disestablishment. His comments were prompted by the refusal of Hereford Diocese to allow same-sex married Mpho Tutu van Furth, daughter of the late Desmond Tutu, from officiating at her godfather’s funeral. Bradshaw claimed
- [James and John and greatness in the kingdom in Mark 10 video discussion](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/james-and-john-and-greatness-in-the-kingdom-in-mark-10-video-discussion/) - The gospel lectionary reading for Trinity 21 in this Year B is Mark 10.35–45. The lectionary choice is unfortunate this week, in that it cuts out the verses following last week's read, Mark 10.32–34. Not only do these verses provide continuity with last week's reading about the (rich) (young) (ruler) man, but they are an
- [Is the Archbishop of Canterbury misleading everyone about the Prayers of Love and Faith (PLF)?](https://www.psephizo.com/sexuality-2/is-the-archbishop-of-canterbury-misleading-everyone-about-the-prayers-of-love-and-faith-plf/) - Andrew Goddard writes: What follows demonstrates a recent statement about PLF by the Archbishop of Canterbury, Justin Welby, is significantly misleading in relation to what the bishops have decided, what the church teaches on sexual ethics, who PLF is for, and what PLF offers. This development, contradicting and undermining past theological and legal advice as
- [How big should local churches be?](https://www.psephizo.com/life-ministry/how-big-should-local-churches-be/) - Some years ago, one of the fringe meetings at a session of the General Synod focussed on the needs of 'mid-sized churches', in this case defined as worshipping communities of 20 to 60. The reason for this was a question that William Nye, Secretary General of Synod and the Archbishops' Council, had raised: Without meaning
- [What is Jesus’ challenge to the ‘rich’ ‘young’ ‘ruler’ in Mark 10?](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/what-is-jesus-challenge-to-the-rich-young-ruler-in-mark-10/) - The gospel lectionary reading for Trinity 20 in this year B is Mark 10.17–31, the story of the so-called ‘rich’ ‘young’ ‘ruler’. But two of these terms are supplied by Matthew and Luke, and Mark has some significant unique elements to the way he tells the story. We continue to read sequentially through this section
- [What is Jesus’ challenge to the ‘rich’ ‘young’ ‘ruler’ in Mark 10? video discussion](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/what-is-jesus-challenge-to-the-rich-young-ruler-in-mark-10-video-discussion/) - The gospel lectionary reading for Trinity 20 in this year B is Mark 10.17–31, the story of the so-called 'rich' 'young' 'ruler'. But two of these terms are supplied by Matthew and Luke, and Mark has some significant unique elements to the way he tells the story. Why does Jesus appear to challenged someone who
- [Why does eschatology matter?](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/why-does-eschatology-matter/) - Mark Bonnington writes: Faith hope and love are the three cardinal (or primary) virtues in the Christian faith. As Paul the Apostle wrote: ‘Faith; hope; love; these three endure’ ‘but the least understood is hope.’ Actually, that last bit is a quote from the late, great, Baptist preacher David Pawson—a gloss on 1 Corinthians 13
- [What does the rise of artificial intelligence tell us about being human?](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/what-does-the-rise-of-artificial-intelligence-tell-us-about-being-human/) - I write a quarterly column for Preach magazine, in which I explore a significant word or phrase in the Bible, or a theme or section of Scripture, and the ideas that it expresses. At the end of this piece I list the previous articles I have written for them. Here I explore what Scripture says
- [What’s the problem? What’s the Solution? The problem with ‘racial justice’ appointments](https://www.psephizo.com/life-ministry/whats-the-problem-whats-the-solution-the-problem-with-racial-justice-appointments/) - John Root writes: The diocese of London is advertising for the post of the newly-created ‘Head of Racial Justice Priority’. Other dioceses (such as Leeds) are considering or have made similar appointments. Why? In this blog, with London as the example, I want to spotlight the potential of such appointments, but especially explore the ways
- [Does Jesus allow divorce 'for any reason' in Mark 10? video discussion](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/does-jesus-allow-divorce-for-any-reason-in-mark-10-video-discussion/) - The Sunday gospel lectionary reading for Trinity 19 in this Year B is Mark 10.2–16. I think it is impossible to preach on this passage without dealing with the question of the consequences of Jesus’ teaching for our own attitude to and the Church’s practice in relation to divorce and remarriage, and this will make
- [The kingdom is both desperately serious and delightfully accessible in Mark 9 video discussion](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/the-kingdom-is-both-desperately-serious-and-delightfully-accessible-in-mark-9-video-discussion/) - The Sunday lectionary gospel reading for Trinity 18 in this Year B is Mark 9.38–50. It is a rather unusual reading; it completes the collection of sayings that we began last week, and there is some continuity across the two passages; and it does belong (as we noted last week) to a section of teachings
- [The kingdom is both desperately serious and delightfully accessible in Mark 9](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/the-kingdom-is-both-desperately-serious-and-delightfully-accessible-in-mark-9/) - The Sunday lectionary gospel reading for Trinity 18 in this Year B is Mark 9.38–50. It is a rather unusual reading; it completes the collection of sayings that we began last week, and there is some continuity across the two passages; and it does belong (as we noted last week) to a section of teachings
- [Choosing Bishops: A Failure to Discern?](https://www.psephizo.com/life-ministry/choosing-bishops-a-failure-to-discern/) - Andrew Goddard writes: This article, building on my earlier account, explores issues surrounding this week’s public meeting of the House of Bishops to consider the Crown Nominations Commission’s (CNC) discernment process for diocesan bishops. Although that meeting was welcomingly transparent, the discernment processes leading to the proposals supported by it were much less so. Four areas
- [Does Genesis 2 offer a definition of marriage?](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/does-genesis-2-offer-a-definition-of-marriage/) - David Ball writes: David Runcorn, one of the convenors of Inclusive Evangelicals and the author of the forthcoming book, Playing in the Dust—a pilgrimage with the creation stories (Canterbury Press), has recently posted a blog on the Inclusive Evangelicals website asking the question ‘Is Genesis chapter 2 a definition of marriage?’ In this article, I seek
- [Jesus’ radical inversion of our community values in Mark 9](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/jesus-radical-inversion-of-our-community-values-in-mark-9/) - The Sunday gospel lectionary reading for Trinity 17 in this Year B is Mark 9.30–37 (the reading for Trinity 16 three years ago because of where the weekends fall). In our reading of Mark, we have leap-frogged from the confession at Ceasarea Philippi, over the Transfiguration (which is considered at other times in the lectionary)
- [Paul wrote none of his own letters—and it really matters](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/paul-wrote-none-of-his-own-letters-and-it-really-matters/) - When we read the letters of Paul, we often skip over the introductions and the conclusions in our impatience to get to the heart of the letter. But in doing so, we might miss some things that tell us a lot about Paul, his ministry, his material cultural context, and even how we managed to
- [Humpty Dumpty Sat on a Stonewall: Reflections on Inclusive Christianity](https://www.psephizo.com/sexuality-2/humpty-dumpty-sat-on-a-stonewall-reflections-on-inclusive-christianity/) - Mike Starkey writes: A friend of mine recently joined a new inclusive Christian network, and wanted to know if I planned to sign up. He used the phrase ‘standing with the LGBTQ+ community’. I hesitated before replying, just as I’d hesitated a decade earlier when asked a similar question at a church in the North
- [The Turning Point of the Gospel at Mark 8](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/the-turning-point-of-the-gospel-at-mark-8/) - The reading for Trinity 16 in this Year B (Trinity 15 in other years) is Mark 8.27–38, the encounter with forms the pivot in the second gospel: until now, there has been power, success, dynamism and crowds, but from now on, Jesus walks the lonely path to suffering and the cross. At the northernmost point
- [Jesus' radical inversion of our community values in Mark 9 video discussion](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/jesus-radical-inversion-of-our-community-values-in-mark-9-video-discussion/) - The Sunday gospel lectionary reading for Trinity 17 in Year B is Mark 9.30–37. In our reading of Mark, we have leap-frogged from the confession at Ceasarea Philippi, over the Transfiguration (which is considered at other times in the lectionary) and the following deliverance episode, to a short cluster of sayings, though stopping short of
- [The Turning Point of the Gospel in Mark 8 video discussion](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/the-turning-point-of-the-gospel-in-mark-8-video-discussion/) - The reading for Trinity 15 in Year B is Mark 8.27–38, the encounter with forms the pivot in the second gospel: until now, there has been power, success, dynamism and crowds, but from now on, Jesus walks the lonely path to suffering and the cross. At the northernmost point of his ministry, Jesus turns from
- [Why and how does Jesus 'gather' his people?](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/why-and-how-does-jesus-gather-his-people/) - The New Testament's language of 'gathering' is interesting and theologically rich. At one level, it simply designates the bringing together of things in a physically common space; thus Herod 'gathers' all the chief priests (note the plural!) and teachers of the law to learn from them where the Messiah was to be born in Matt
- [Is the Church in an episcopal stalemate?](https://www.psephizo.com/sexuality-2/is-the-church-in-an-episcopal-stalemate/) - Andrew Goddard writes: As the College of Bishops gathers in Oxford next week for its regular September residential, the Bishops of Penrith and Huntingdon remain Acting Bishops of Carlisle and Ely respectively and will probably be so into the second half of next year. It is also probable that there will be perhaps 5 or
- [Was Jesus racist towards the Syro-Phoenician woman in Mark 7?](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/was-jesus-racist-towards-the-syro-phoenician-woman-in-mark-7/) - The gospel lectionary reading for Trinity 15 in this Year B (the reading for Trinity 14 three years ago) is Mark 7.24-37, which includes the episode of Jesus' encounter with the Syrophoenician woman that often brings readers up short, containing as it does what appears to be a rather shocking insult. Jesus is seeking to
- [Was Jesus racist towards the Syro-Phoenician woman in Mark 7? video discussion](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/was-jesus-racist-towards-the-syro-phoenician-woman-in-mark-7-video-discussion/) - The gospel lectionary reading for Trinity 15 in this Year B is Mark 7.24-37, which includes the episode of Jesus’ encounter with the Syrophoenician woman that often brings readers up short, containing as it does what appears to be a rather shocking insult. It has become very popular to read this as a story about
- [Was John the first gospel?](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/was-john-the-first-gospel/) - The British New Testament Society meets at the end of August every year, and draws around 180 scholars from the UK, from Europe and some even come from the US for the weekend. It comprises three main papers from eminent scholars, a series of specialist groups, looking at sections of the New Testament, which meet
- [Jesus and the food laws in Mark 7 video discussion](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/jesus-and-the-food-laws-in-mark-7/) - The Sunday lectionary reading for Trinity 14 in this Year B is Mark 7.1–8, 14–15, 21–23 (which was Trinity 13 last time around). We have chewed over the feeding of the 5,000 in John 6, and gathered up every last morsel of the ‘bread of life’ discourse over the last five (five!) weeks—and now our
- [How should we read the Book of Judges?](https://www.psephizo.com/reviews/how-should-we-read-the-book-of-judges/) - David Cavanagh writes: There is a longstanding and widespread convention that Judges is structured around a cyclical structure. Broadly speaking, the pattern is that after arriving in the promised land, Israel turns away from YHWH, who then hands his people over to oppression by surrounding peoples, until Israel repents and calls out to YHWH, who
- [Do followers of Jesus obey OT food laws (Mark 7)?](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/do-followers-of-jesus-obey-ot-food-laws-mark-7/) - The Sunday lectionary reading for Trinity 13 in Year B is Mark 7.1–8, 14–15, 21–23. We have chewed over the feeding of the 5,000 in John 6, and gathered up every last morsel of the 'bread of life' discourse over the last five (five!) weeks—and now our fast from Mark's gospel is at an end! Reading
- [How does Revelation configure space and time?](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/how-does-revelation-configure-space-and-time/) - I am contributing the chapter on Revelation to the forthcoming Cambridge Handbook to Apocalyptic Literature, and this is what I am planning to say about time and space in Revelation. Any observations welcome! As part of the extended epistolary opening (which runs from Rev 1:4 to 1:11), John locates himself temporally, spatially, relationally and spiritually in
- [Jesus offers words of eternal life in John 6](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/jesus-offers-words-of-eternal-life-in-john-6/) - As we come to the gospel lectionary reading for Trinity 13, we reach the last of five consecutive Sundays (since Trinity 9) working through John 6, and have the final verses (including an overlap with last week's reading) of John 6.56–69. If you have continued to follow the lectionary through the summer, you might be
- [Why do we need to think about polyamory?](https://www.psephizo.com/sexuality-2/why-do-we-need-to-think-about-polyamory/) - Andrew Bunt has just written an excellent new Grove booklet in the Ethics series, Three or More: Reflections on Polyamory and Consensual Non-monogamy. I was able to catch up with him and ask him about why he wrote the booklet, and what we need to think about on this issue. IP: Why have you decided to
- [Does the Church of England celebrate the Assumption of Mary?](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/does-the-church-of-england-celebrate-the-assumption-of-mary/) - Andrew Goddard writes: I was rather shocked a couple of years ago when I spotted in my Twitter feed the following tweet from the Archbishop of Canterbury: Today we mark the Feast of the #Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary. Like Mary, let each of us say our yes to God’s call and trust the boundless
- [Jesus offers words of eternal life in John 6 video discussion](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/jesus-offers-words-of-eternal-life-in-john-6-video-discussion/) - The final reading from John 6, for Trinity 13 in Year B, ends with many of Jesus' disciples turning away, together with Jesus' response. Typically Johannine, the passage and Jesus' speech folds in new ideas about the Father, the Spirit, life, and believing in Jesus. Come and join Ian and James as they explore the
- [Reading Eric Kaufmann’s ‘Taboo’ in the Church of England](https://www.psephizo.com/life-ministry/reading-eric-kaufmanns-taboo-in-the-church-of-england/) - John Root writes: Eric Kaufmann's Taboo (reviewed last week here) is centrally about the damaging slippage in Anglophone culture from ‘cultural liberalism’ (such as equality of opportunity) to ‘cultural socialism’ (such as equality of outcome); a process that requires cancelling the expression of resistant ideas, inflated concern about the dangers of ‘harm’, and an increased
- [What is the meaning of 'eating Jesus' in John 6?](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/what-is-the-meaning-of-eating-jesus-in-john-6/) - We are in the fourth of five weeks in the lectionary winding our way slowly through the feeding of the 5,000 in John 6 and the following discourse, in which Jesus declares he is the bread of life, and that he will feed all who come to him. The reading for Trinity 12 in this
- [What happens when you make 'race' sacred?](https://www.psephizo.com/reviews/what-happens-when-you-make-race-sacred/) - John Root offers this review of Eric Kaufmann's Taboo: How making Race sacred produced a Cultural Revolution. The week-end before last the Wireless Festival was held in Finsbury Park just down the road from my home. Amongst the items that attendees were prohibited from bringing were ‘Clothing, garments, items which promote cultural appropriation’. What’s going
- [Playing Fast and Loose with Prayers of Love and Faith?](https://www.psephizo.com/sexuality-2/playing-fast-and-loose-with-prayers-of-love-and-faith/) - Andrew Goddard writes: A recent service at York Minster in which the Prayers of Love and Faith (PLF) were used for two men who had entered a civil same-sex marriage has ignited controversy, highlighted several problems, and raised the question as to whether people are playing fast and loose (PFL) with PLF. The initial social
- [Jesus feeds everyone who comes to him in John 6](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/jesus-feeds-everyone-who-comes-to-him-in-john-6/) - The lectionary gospel reading for Trinity 11 in this Year B (Trinity 10 three years ago) is John 6.35, 41–51 which continues our exploration of the 'Bread of Life' discourse from last week, following on from the feeding of the 5,000. Once again, we have an odd selection of passage: we are given only 11
- [What is the problem with a Third Province in the Church of England?](https://www.psephizo.com/life-ministry/what-is-the-problem-with-a-third-province-in-the-church-of-england/) - Martin Davie writes: In a letter of 2 July this year to the signatories of a letter from the Alliance group within the Church of England to the Archbishops of Canterbury and York, the Bishop of Oxford wrote as follows: The mind of the majority House of Bishops now seems to me to be settling
- [Jesus is the bread of life in John 6 video discussion](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/jesus-is-the-bread-of-life-in-john-6-video-discussion/) - We continue through our careful reading of John 6 as an intermission from Mark’s gospel, and on Trinity 10 in Year B the gospel reading is John 6.24–35. Having romped through 21 verses last week, which include the Fourth Gospel’s lengthier version of the feeding of the 5,000 and Jesus walking on water (though in
- [Episcopal Jenga: How to push a church to the brink of collapse](https://www.psephizo.com/sexuality-2/episcopal-jenga-how-to-push-a-church-to-the-brink-of-collapse/) - Andrew Goddard writes: Reflecting on the recent July Session of the Church of England’s General Synod and considering where we now find ourselves on the Living in Love and Faith (LLF) questions of sexuality, marriage and identity I was struck by the fact that we seem to be engaged in a game of episcopal Jenga.
- [Should Christians take offence?](https://www.psephizo.com/life-ministry/should-christians-take-offence/) - What a dramatic spectacle it was, as it unfolded! I am not referring to the Olympic opening ceremony, which was spectacular in parts, but also rather long and drawn out, full of slightly obscure allusions to French cultural ideas (was ours better in 2012? Yes, I think it was less obscure), and at times seemed
- [How can All Flourish in Church Schools?](https://www.psephizo.com/life-ministry/how-can-all-flourish-in-church-schools/) - 'Valuing All God's Children' (VAGC) was first published in 2014 in response to research claiming to show homophobic bullying was something which needed particular attention in Church schools. It was revised in 2017 and 2019, but was the cause of controversy for three reasons. First, it was felt to be implying that children and young
- [Jesus feeds the 5,000 in John 6](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/jesus-feeds-the-5000-in-john-6/) - The lectionary gospel for Trinity 9 in this Year B is John 6.1–21, and it takes us from famine to feast—metaphorically and literally!—as we move from the sparse verses about Jesus' ministry in Mark 6 to the lavish feast of both the feeding of the 5,000 and Jesus walking on the water in John 6.
- [Jesus feeds the 5,000 in John 6 video discussion](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/jesus-feeds-the-5000-in-john-6-video-discussion/) - The account of the feeding of the 5,000 is often thought to point to subsequent Christian practice of Communion or the Eucharist. In fact, there are several pointers in the account in John 6 which point away from this. Much stronger are links with the Old Testament, particularly Moses leading the people as they are
- [What kind of writing is the Book of Revelation? (ii)](https://www.psephizo.com/revelation/what-kind-of-writing-is-the-book-of-revelation-ii/) - I have written a chapter for a book coming out next year offering a faithful reading of Revelation but engaging with the critical (in both senses of that term) questions around this book. My chapter is on the genre of Revelation—what kind of writing is it? In the first half of the chapter, posted here,
- [How can I speak well on radio and video?](https://www.psephizo.com/life-ministry/how-can-i-speak-well-on-radio-and-video/) - In the last few weeks I have been busy with the media, and this is a reflection of the fact that there are more and more opportunities for us to engage in broadcast media than ever before. Quite apart from the (literally) millions of podcasts and pre-recorded YouTube videos, there is demand for live radio,
- [Will disagreements on sexuality split the Church of England?](https://www.psephizo.com/sexuality-2/will-disagreements-on-sexuality-split-the-church-of-england/) - I had a busy week on broadcast media last week. On Thursday I took part on a panel discussion hosted by the Religion News Service, which provides information on religious issues for the wider press (who might not fully understand all the issues). You can watch the one hour discussion on YouTube here. On Saturday,
- [The compassion and healing of Jesus in Mark 6 video discussion](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/the-compassion-and-healing-of-jesus-in-mark-6-video/) - The reading for Trinity 8 in this Year B in the lectionary is rather odd—a selection of verses sliced out of Mark's narrative, Mark 6.30-34, 53-56. It separates the 'bread', the description of Jesus' ministry, from the jam or the meat of the sandwich, the feeding of the 5,000, which we consider next week from
- [Where is God at the beheading of John in Mark 6?](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/where-is-god-at-the-beheading-of-john-in-mark-6/) - The gospel lectionary reading for Trinity 7 in this Year B (though not in every Year B!) is Mark 6.14–29—and it feels distinctly odd by any measure. If you are a good Anglican, and ensure you read not only from the NT and the Psalms but also from the Old Testament every week, it will
- [Is divorce the only option left over LLF?](https://www.psephizo.com/sexuality-2/is-divorce-the-only-option-left-over-llf/) - Christopher Landau writes: In some of the cases of marriage breakdown I have known, a crucial moment came when one party no longer believed the marriage could be saved, and so the only option was to proceed to divorce. I fear the Church of England stands on the precipice of such a moment. I hope
- [Where does the C of E go on sexuality after July Synod?](https://www.psephizo.com/sexuality-2/where-does-the-c-of-e-go-on-sexuality-after-july-synod/) - Not everything was bad at the session of General Synod last weekend. When someone asked me how I was, I replied 'I feel like the violinist in the orchestra on the Titanic. The music is going very well!' There was an important discussion about 'rest periods for office holders' (C of E language for vicars
- [Where is God at the beheading of John in Mark 6 video discussion](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/where-is-god-at-the-beheading-of-john-in-mark-6-video-discussion/) - The gospel lectionary reading for Trinity 7 in this Year B is Mark 6.14–29. This odd reading includes the detailed story of the gruesome beheading of John the Baptist, concluded with the return of the disciples from mission. How do we make sense of the story in Mark's gospel? What is Mark doing in retelling
- [Jesus is rejected by the people of Nazareth in Mark 6](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/jesus-is-rejected-by-the-people-of-nazareth-in-mark-6/) - The gospel lectionary reading for Trinity 6 in this Year B is Mark 6.1–13, and is yet another example of Mark's highly concise storytelling that is packed with theological narrative significance. Once more the lectionary does us a slight disservice; the reading combines the story of those taking offence at Jesus in his home town
- [Should we seek compromise with a departure from the catholic consensus?](https://www.psephizo.com/sexuality-2/should-we-seek-compromise-with-a-departure-from-the-catholic-consensus/) - Joshua Penduck writes: In a striking, and near seeming coincidence, at the same time the Bishop of Oxford’s Letter against the Alliance has been published, a new previously undiscovered letter of +Eustathius of Sebaste to Athanasius of Alexander has been brought to light. Eustathius of Sebaste was one of the leaders of the ‘homoiousios’ party,
- [Jesus is rejected by the people of Nazareth in Mark 6 video discussion](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/jesus-is-rejected-by-the-people-of-nazareth-in-mark-6-video-discussion/) - The gospel lectionary reading for Trinity 6 in this Year B is Mark 6.1–13, and is yet another example of Mark’s highly concise storytelling that is packed with theological narrative significance. The passage combines the conclusion of this section of Jesus ministry, and recounts the startling rejection of Jesus in his hometown of Nazareth (though
- [The Church of England’s Historic Links to the Transatlantic Slave Trade](https://www.psephizo.com/life-ministry/the-church-of-englands-historic-links-to-the-transatlantic-slave-trade/) - Robert Tombs and Lawrence Goldman write: The Church Commissioners have pledged £100 million over nine years in reparation for what are claimed to be their eighteenth-century predecessors’ involvement in and large financial gains from slavery and the slave trade. They argue that the Church, through Queen Anne’s Bounty (a corporation created by statute in 1703-4 for ‘the
- [Jesus heals the sick and raises the dead in Mark 5](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/jesus-heals-the-sick-and-raises-the-dead-in-mark-5/) - The gospel lectionary reading for Trinity 5 in this Year B is Mark 5.21–43, the intercalated stories of the raising of Jairus' daughter and the healing of the woman with a flow of blood. (For some reason, the lectionary jumps over the previous episode, the deliverance of the Gerasene demoniac; I assume that one of
- [Jesus heals the sick and raises the dead in Mark 5 video discussion](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/jesus-heals-the-sick-and-raises-the-dead-in-mark-5-video-discussion/) - The lectionary gospel reading for Trinity 5 in this Year B is Mark 5.21–43, the intercalated stories of the raising of Jairus' daughter and the healing of the woman with an issue of blood. This is Mark the storyteller at his narrative best, and unlike many lectionary passages, this is a long reading worth exploring
- [What is now being proposed for Living in Love and Faith?](https://www.psephizo.com/sexuality-2/what-is-now-being-proposed-for-living-in-love-and-faith/) - Andrew Goddard writes: Yesterday, the latest proposal as to the way forward in relation to Living in Love and Faith (LLF) appeared in the form of GS 2358, to be added to all the previous General Synod papers since January 2023. This 31-page paper provides the motion (p. 17) the House of Bishops will be
- [Unity matters in our debates about sexuality—and so does truth](https://www.psephizo.com/sexuality-2/unity-matters-in-our-debates-about-sexuality-and-so-does-truth/) - Last week, Martyn Snow, the bishop of Leicester and current lead for the Living in Love and Faith process debating sexuality in the Church of England, wrote an article in the Church of England Newspaper arguing that ‘Unity Matters—it really matters’. The article, and comments he makes in support of it, set out some
- [Michael Mosley and Christian faith](https://www.psephizo.com/life-ministry/michael-mosley-and-christian-faith/) - When I first heard the news of Michael Mosley's disappearance on the island of Symi, I had a sense of foreboding which was confirmed four days later when his body was found. But more than that—I was taken by surprise at my sense of personal loss. Of course, there is always a rather unreal sense
- [Jesus calming the storm in Mark 4](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/jesus-calming-the-storm-in-mark-4/) - The lectionary reading for Trinity 4 in Year B is Mark 4.35–41, (the reading for Trinity 3 in other Years B) the account of Jesus calming the storm. It is a fabulous story both full of little eye-witness details, and yet at the same time impossible to read without feeling its symbolic significance. Unlike Matthew,
- [Jesus calming the storm in Mark 4 video discussion](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/jesus-calming-the-storm-in-mark-4-video-discussion/) - The lectionary reading for Trinity 4 in this Year B is Mark 4.35–41 (the reading for Trinity 3 in other Years B), the account of Jesus calming the storm. It is a fabulous story both full of little eye-witness details, and yet at the same time impossible to read without feeling its symbolic significance. Unlike
- [Can we hear the voice of Jesus through the voice of Matthew?](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/can-we-hear-the-voice-of-jesus-through-the-voice-of-matthew/) - I wrote this chapter titled 'The Voice of Jesus through the Voice of Matthew and its Pastoral Implications' for a Festschrift Well Done, Good and Faithful Servant in honour of Stephen Wright, long time tutor in Biblical Studies at Spurgeon's College in London, and current chair of the Grove Biblical series editorial group. Stephen Wright has offered
- [The kingdom of God grows 'all by itself' in Mark 4](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/the-kingdom-of-god-grows-all-by-itself-in-mark-4/) - The gospel lectionary reading for Trinity 3 in Year B is Mark 4.26–34. (Note that this is usually the reading for Trinity 2, but with Easter being early, this season is longer, and an additional reading has been added in Trinity 1, pushing all the others back by a week.) Once again, the lectionary makes
- [Resetting LLF: Whose unity? Which doctrine?](https://www.psephizo.com/sexuality-2/resetting-llf-whose-unity-which-doctrine/) - Andrew Goddard writes: A new article by the Lead Bishop for LLF, Martyn Snow, offers some promising signals as to how the LLF “reset” is progressing, particularly in relation to the importance of doctrine and its relationship to the form of our unity, but it also leaves major questions unanswered. The following article explores six
- [Understanding who we are from Revelation 14](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/understanding-who-we-are-from-revelation-14/) - There is no denying that, for any modern reader, the Book of Revelation is a strange text; we will not learn from it by pretending that it does not present challenges. It does reveal things (as the name suggests), but that can simply make life more complicated and confusing. Many of us feel the same
- [What do we know about the End of the World?](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/what-do-we-know-about-the-end-of-the-world/) - Where is the world heading? How will it all end? Are we in the ‘end times’? Will there be a 'secret rapture'? What is the 'millennium'? These are questions which we find asked often in the modern world, and many claim that we are in unique times when these questions are singularly appropriate. But you
- [Opposition to Jesus comes from every side in Mark 3](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/opposition-to-jesus-comes-from-every-side-in-mark-3/) - The gospel lectionary reading for the Second Sunday of Trinity in Year B is Mark 3.20–35, which consists of two stories of opposition to Jesus' ministry, intercalated—that is, one story is split to form the outer frame, with another, related, story at the centre. The frame story is his (biological) family going to 'seize'
- [Opposition to Jesus from every side in Mark 3 video discussion](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/opposition-to-jesus-from-every-side-in-mark-3-video-discussion/) - The gospel reading for Trinity 2 in Year B is Mark 3.20–35 (the end of the chapter). It is a fascinating episode, since in characteristic style, Mark 'intercalates' or sandwiches one story inside another—the opposite from the Jewish authorities sits within the story of his family trying to stop his ministry. We learn about the
- [The kingdom of God grows 'all by itself' in mark 4 video discussion](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/the-kingdom-of-god-grows-all-by-itself-in-mark-4-video-discussion/) - The gospel lectionary reading for Trinity 3 in Year B is Mark 4.26–34. Once again, the lectionary makes a slightly odd choice, picking up the teaching of Jesus midway through a sequence of pericopes mostly related to parables and the kingdom. But the two quite simple parables contain a wealth of insight into the nature
- [Do we pray the Lord's Prayer wrongly?](https://www.psephizo.com/life-ministry/do-we-pray-the-lords-prayer-wrongly/) - The Lord's Prayer must surely be the central devotional text in the Christian faith. Tom Wright (in his short book The Lord and his Prayer) comments: When Jesus gave his disciples this prayer, he was giving them part of his own breath, his own life, his own prayer. The prayer is actually a distillation of
- [PLF: Prayers of Love and Faith? Or Persistent Leadership Failure?](https://www.psephizo.com/life-ministry/plf-prayers-of-love-and-faith-or-persistent-leadership-failure/) - Summary Reviewing the development of Prayers of Love and Faith (PLF) reveals that it demonstrates an even more serious 'PLF' problem, one that is evident in other areas of church life as well: Persistent Leadership Failure. It first traces this failure back to the rushed origins of PLF in late 2022 and early 2023. These
- [Disputing the Sabbath in Mark 2–3 video discussion](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/disputing-the-sabbath-in-mark-2-3-video-discussion/) - Because Easter was earlier this year, the readings in 'ordinary time' begin in Trinity 1 with Mark 2.23–3.6 which is not always included when Easter is later. At first, this appears to be a pair of incidents about Sabbath law and whether it still applies to followers of Jesus. In fact, it sits within Jewish
- [Disputing the Sabbath in Mark 2 and 3](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/disputing-the-sabbath-in-mark-2-and-3/) - Oh Mark—where have you been, with your dynamic directness, your parataxis and imitation of Old Testament narrative, your puns on ‘straightway’ and your dense biblical allusions? We have missed you! And yet—it is we who left you, whilst you have been waiting patiently all this time. We were seduced by the Beloved Disciple, with his
- [How can books and publishing support the work of the gospel?](https://www.psephizo.com/life-ministry/how-can-books-and-publishing-support-the-work-of-the-gospel/) - I first met Tom Creedy when he was doing Masters-level study at the college in Nottingham where I taught, and we have kept in good touch ever since. I was delighted to see that this week it has been announced that he is now the Publishing Director at Inter-Varsity Press (IVP), which for the last
- [Once more: whither the Church of England?](https://www.psephizo.com/life-ministry/once-more-whither-the-church-of-england/) - On Monday there was a (comparatively) early release of the 2023 Statistics for Mission, the results of the annual October collection of attendance numbers in Church of England churches. The headline was all about the good news! Weekly Church attendance up five per cent in third year of consecutive growth Average weekly attendance at Church
- [Jesus meets Nicodemus in John 3 on Trinity Sunday](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/jesus-meets-nicodemus-in-john-3-on-trinity-sunday/) - The Sunday lectionary gospel reading for Trinity Sunday in Year B is the same as we had for Lent 2 in Year A—Nicodemus' meeting with Jesus in John 3.1–17—so I am reposting the article from last year for this week. In Year A, this forms part of a four-week departure from reading Matthew's gospel: Lent
- [Jesus meets Nicodemus in John 3 on Trinity Sunday —video discussion](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/jesus-meets-nicodemus-in-john-3-on-trinity-sunday-video-discussion/) - The Sunday lectionary gospel reading for Trinity Sunday in this Year B is the same as it was for Lent 2 in Year A: Nicodemus' meeting with Jesus in John 3.1–17. In Year A we were supposed to be reading from Matthew’s gospel, and the RCL used ecumenically has continued to do so, the lectionary
- [What do we do when we worship God?](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/what-do-we-do-when-we-worship-god/) - When I became an Anglican (from a background of a different church tradition), I was at first quite puzzled by the choice of Scripture passages that Anglican (that is, Church of England) services kept coming back to—the Benedictus (Luke 1.68–79) in Morning Prayer, the Magnificat (Luke 1.46–55) in Evening Prayer, and the Nunc Dimittis (Luke
- [The missionary Spirit poured out at Pentecost in Acts 2](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/the-missionary-spirit-poured-out-at-pentecost-in-acts-2/) - This Sunday is the Feast of Pentecost, when we remember, celebrate, and re-engage with the first giving of the Spirit at Pentecost as recounted in Acts 2., and the lectionary reading in this Year CX is, as every year, Acts 2.1–21. Although it is a comparatively long reading, in one sense it is not long
- [The Spirit poured out at Pentecost in Acts 2 video discussion](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/the-spirit-poured-out-at-pentecost-in-acts-2-video-discussion/) - This Sunday is the Feast of Pentecost, when we remember, celebrate, and re-engage with the first giving of the Spirit at Pentecost as recounted in Acts 2, and the lectionary reading in this Year A is, as every year, Acts 2.1–21. Although it is a comparatively long reading, in one sense it is not long
- [Seeking a Way Through LLF/PLF: Seeing the Forest Not Just the Trees](https://www.psephizo.com/sexuality-2/seeking-a-way-through-llf-plf-seeing-the-forest-not-just-the-trees/) - Andrew Goddard writes: As new LLF groups convene this weekend, in this article, I note the following issues. The three working groups and the bishops need not only to connect the work in each area (“the trees”) but also see the bigger theological picture (“the forest”) where the earlier LLF work is helpful in clarifying
- [Why is the Ascension of Jesus the most important event in the New Testament?](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/why-is-the-ascension-of-jesus-the-most-important-event-in-the-new-testament/) - What would you identify as the climax and completion of Jesus' life and ministry? Surprisingly, this is not a trivial question. One of the key differences between John and the synoptic gospels is that, where the synoptics portray the crucifixion as a necessary but incomplete act on the way to the resurrection, John portrays it
- [The followers of Jesus are kept, sanctified and sent in John 17](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/the-followers-of-jesus-are-kept-sanctified-and-sent-in-john-17/) - The Sunday lectionary gospel reading for Easter 7 in Year B is John 17.6–19, the central section of Jesus' so-called 'High Priestly Prayer'. The reading omits the introduction and opening sentences of the prayer, and stops short before the often-quoted 'that they might be one'; I have previously commented on the use of this phrase,
- [The followers of Jesus are kept, sanctified and sent in John 17 video discussion](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/the-followers-of-jesus-are-kept-sanctified-and-sent-in-john-17-video-discussion/) - The Sunday lectionary gospel reading for Easter 7 in Year B is John 17.6–19, the central section of Jesus’ so-called ‘High Priestly Prayer’. It continues to weave in a range of interconnected ideas from earlier in the gospel, drawing them together into a picture of Jesus' followers sanctified in the world and sent to proclaim
- [Is Critical Race Theory Marxist?](https://www.psephizo.com/life-ministry/is-critical-race-theory-marxist/) - What is the connection between Marxist thinking, Critical Race Theory, and actions by churches (including the Church of England) to address the perceived experience of racial injustice? The question is contested, but it is not straightforward, since Critical Race Theory has a complex intellectual history, and the underlying assumptions in the debates about race and
- [Gender identity and the Christian vision of humanity](https://www.psephizo.com/sexuality-2/gender-identity-and-the-christian-vision-of-humanity/) - Last week, the Catholic bishops of England and Wales issued a pastoral document on the question of gender identity in the light of biblical and theological understandings of what it means to be created male and female in the image of God. It is a fascinating, clear, refreshing and helpful statement, and like all Catholic
- [Joy through friendship with Jesus in John 15](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/joy-through-friendship-with-jesus-in-john-15/) - The lectionary reading for Easter 6 in Year B is the second half of what appears to be a single section of Jesus' teaching, in his 'Farewell Discourse', John 15.9–17. On the one hand, it seems strange to have divided this teaching into its two halves. On the other, whilst there is a continuing overarching
- [Joy through friendship with Jesus in John 15 video discussion](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/joy-through-friendship-with-jesus-in-john-15-video-discussion/) - The lectionary reading for Easter 6 in Year B is the second half of what appears to be a single section of Jesus’ teaching, in his ‘Farewell Discourse’, John 15.9–17. On the one hand, it seems strange to have divided this teaching into its two halves. On the other, whilst there is a continuing overarching
- [Can safeguarding be integral to Christian mission?](https://www.psephizo.com/life-ministry/can-safeguarding-be-integral-to-mission/) - Safeguarding in the church has become a high-profile and contentious issue. On the one hand, all agree that our churches must be experienced as safe places, and that the failures of the past must be addressed. On the other, the experience of many is that safeguarding administration has grown exponentially, and it is in danger
- [How can we read the Book of Revelation well today?](https://www.psephizo.com/revelation/how-can-we-read-the-book-of-revelation-well-today/) - Last week I visited Vintage City Church in Fort Collins, Colorado, to talk about the Book of Revelation over the weekend and preach in their Sunday services. Vintage City Church is a really interesting place, where the team are committed to engaging with the work of the Spirit amongst them, thinking well about the Christian
- [Jesus is the true vine in John 15](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/jesus-is-the-true-vine-in-john-15/) - The Sunday lectionary reading for Easter 5 in Year B is Jesus' teaching that he is the true vine in John 15.1–8. It is a striking and memorable image that has three different elements of context to consider, and it reiterates themes from earlier in the Farewell Discourse as well as picking up ideas that
- [Jesus feeds all who come to him in John 6](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/jesus-feeds-all-who-come-to-him-in-john-6/) - The lectionary gospel reading for Trinity 10 in Year B is John 6.35, 41–51 which continues our exploration of the 'Bread of Life' discourse from last week, following on from the feeding of the 5,000. Once again, we have an odd selection of passage: we are given only 11 verses, since the intermediate verses
- [Jesus is the true vine in John 15 video discussion](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/jesus-is-the-true-vine-in-john-15-video-discussion/) - The Sunday lectionary reading for Easter 5 in Year B is Jesus’ teaching that he is the true vine in John 15.1–8. It is a striking and memorable image that has three different elements of context to consider, and it reiterates themes from earlier in the Farewell Discourse as well as picking up ideas that
- [What is the place of charismatic theology after Mike Pilavachi?](https://www.psephizo.com/life-ministry/what-is-the-place-of-charismatic-theology-after-mike-pilavachi/) - Christopher Landau writes: These are testing times for anyone even loosely connected with charismatic life within, or adjacent to, the Church of England. To discover that a figure whose ministry was widely celebrated ‘used his spiritual authority to control people and that his coercive and controlling behaviour led to inappropriate relationships, the physical wrestling of
- [Jesus as Good Shepherd leads his sheep in John 10](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/jesus-as-good-shepherd-leads-his-sheep-in-john-10/) - The lectionary gospel readers for the Fourth Sunday of Easter take the three parts of John 10 in turn; in Year A, we read the first ten verses, and now in Year B we look at the second section in John 10.11–18. But this is a good example of where our modern chapter divisions (first
- [What is the connection between prayer and fasting?](https://www.psephizo.com/life-ministry/what-is-the-connection-between-prayer-and-fasting/) - I write a quarterly column for Preach magazine, in which I explore a significant word or phrase in the Bible, or a theme or section of Scripture, and the ideas that it expresses. At the end of this piece I list the previous articles I have written for them. Here I explore what Scripture says
- [Jesus as Good Shepherd leads his sheep in John 10 video discussion](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/jesus-as-good-shepherd-leads-his-sheep-in-john-10-video-discussion/) - The gospel lectionary reading for Year B is the second part of John 10 (John 10.11-18) on the theme of Jesus as the Good Shepherd, following on from the first part explored in Year A. This passage needs to be read carefully in the context of this section of the gospel—but also in its first
- [Is God 'willing to change his mind' (Richard Hays) on sexual ethics?](https://www.psephizo.com/sexuality-2/is-god-willing-to-change-his-mind-richard-hays-on-sexual-ethics/) - Andrew Goddard writes: There has been much heat surrounding the announcement of a new book on sexuality by Richard Hays and Christopher Hays. What follows attempts to shed some light on what is going on. After introducing Richard Hays and his major past contributions in this area, the range of instant responses are sketched as
- [The Cass report, children, and the Church of England](https://www.psephizo.com/sexuality-2/the-cass-report-children-and-the-church-of-england/) - Dr Hilary Cass has delivered her final report offering an independent review of gender identity services for children and young people. The report is online, and is long and complex (not surprisingly) at 232 pages for the main body of the report, but there is a helpful summary of the key points on the supporting
- [The risen Jesus meets the Eleven in Luke 24](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/the-risen-jesus-meets-the-eleven-in-luke-24/) - The gospel lectionary reading for the Third Sunday of Easter in Year B is Luke 24.36b–48, the episode where Jesus meets the disciples after the encounter on the Emmaus Road and before the Ascension. (The lectionary readings for the Third Sunday in Easter ignore the particular gospel for the year, and instead cycle round Luke
- [The risen Jesus meets the Eleven in Luke 24 video discussion](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/the-risen-jesus-meets-the-eleven-in-luke-24-video-discussion/) - The reading for Easter 3 in Year B is Luke 24.36b-48 and it looks like the poor relation of last year's reading, the story of the encounter of the two disciples with Jesus on the road to Emmaus. But it is in fact a fascinating gathering of Jesus' teaching and action, packed into a short
- [Racial, ethnic, and social diversity in the early church](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/racial-ethnic-and-social-diversity-in-the-early-church/) - I cannot quite believe that I first wrote this three years ago; it seems like yesterday. As with the debates on sexuality, the debates on racial justice in the Church of England seem to be becoming intractable. The more we debate the question, the further we are from a common mind, and the more entrenched
- [Do the accounts of the resurrection contradict each other?](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/do-the-accounts-of-the-resurrection-contradict-each-other/) - If the resurrection of Jesus of Nazareth from the dead is the most important and foundational truth of the Christian faith, how come the New Testament accounts of the resurrection and Jesus' appearances are so contradictory? That is a relatively widespread response in atheist/apologetic circles, and I think amongst Muslim critics of the Christian faith.
- [What do we learn from 'doubting' Thomas in John 20?](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/what-do-we-learn-from-doubting-thomas-in-john-20/) - The Sunday gospel lectionary reading for the Second Sunday in Easter is John 20.19–31, which includes Jesus' encounter with so-called 'doubting Thomas'. It is the set reading for this week in all three years of the lectionary, so we know it well—and need to reflect on it if we are going to preach effectively on
- [What makes for Black Success in Britain today?](https://www.psephizo.com/reviews/what-makes-for-black-success-in-britain-today/) - John Root offers this review of Black Success—The Surprising Truth by Tony Sewell, published earlier this month. Sewell was recently chair of the UK’s government’s Commission on Race and Ethnic Disparities, the recommendations which are now the foundations of the government’s policy on tackling racial inequalities. At the time in early 1970s that Tony Sewell was
- [What can we learn from 'doubting' Thomas in John 20? video discussion](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/what-can-we-learn-from-doubting-thomas-in-john-20-video-discussion/) - The Sunday gospel lectionary reading for the Second Sunday in Easter is John 20.19–31, which includes Jesus’ encounter with so-called ‘doubting Thomas’. It is the set reading for this week in all three years of the lectionary, so we know it well—and need to reflect on it if we are going to preach effectively on
- [The women at the empty tomb in Mark 16 video discussion](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/the-women-at-the-empty-tomb-in-mark-16-video-discussion/) - The gospel lectionary reading for Easter Sunday in Year B is the short ending of Mark 16. Despite being a short reading, it raises a lot of questions to explore. (If you have chosen to read or speak on the reading from John 20, then the commentary on that passage is here, and the video
- [The women at the empty tomb in Mark 16](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/the-women-at-the-empty-tomb-in-mark-16/) - The gospel lectionary reading for Easter Sunday in Year B is the short ending of Mark in Mark 16.1–8. Although it is a short reading, there are lots of interesting things to reflect on. (If you have chosen to read or speak on the reading from John 20, then the commentary on that passage is
- [Can we find a way forward for LLF together?](https://www.psephizo.com/sexuality-2/can-we-find-a-way-forward-for-llf-together/) - Andrew Goddard writes: In this article, I offer a summary of what happened at General Synod in February and its procedural consequences. I then look at the recently announced structures for taking LLF/PLF forward and set them out in the context of the past structures and a review of the past motions of General Synod.
- [What strange new world are we now living in?](https://www.psephizo.com/reviews/what-strange-new-world-are-we-now-living-in/) - Laurie Clow offers this review of Carl Trueman's new book Strange New World (Crossway Books, Wheaton, Illinois: 2022): As I move inexorably to the end of my sixth decade and celebrate (?) over 25 years ordained, I find myself increasingly becoming a grumpy old man. My background in social sciences, a graduate of Economics, Politics and
- [Jesus enters Jerusalem on 'Palm Sunday' in Mark 11](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/jesus-enters-jerusalem-on-palm-sunday-in-mark-11/) - This Sunday in the lectionary is Palm Sunday, the week before Easter, and here in Year B we are offered the choice between reading the account in Mark 11 and John 12. I am going to look at Mark 11, since we have been doing a lot in the Fourth Gospel in recent weeks, and
- ['Palm' 'Sunday' in Mark 11 video discussion](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/palm-sunday-in-mark-11-video-discussion/) - The lectionary gospel reading for Palm Sunday in Year B is Mark 11.1–11. (There is an alternative reading from John 12.) It is a fascinating passage, since, rather than focus on Jesus' actual entry to Jerusalem (which is described quite briefly) it focuses more on the preparation, especially the 'untying' of the colt that Jesus
- [‘The Fund for Healing, Repair and Justice’: a discussion](https://www.psephizo.com/life-ministry/the-fund-for-healing-repair-and-justice-a-discussion/) - John Root writes: By a macabre coincidence the Church of England is simultaneously engaged in debates about safeguarding and the victims of abuse, and responses to its involvement in slavery in the Caribbean. Both issues raise two questions: how are we to make some assessment of the damage done under the aegis of the Church
- [In what way does Jesus 'welcome' sinners?](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/in-what-way-does-jesus-welcome-sinners/) - When I was a teenager, one of the books I treasured was William Barclay's New Testament Words. It was a collection of word studies—with an impressive Scrabble-style tiling of Greek words on the cover—though the words were not necessarily the most common, obvious, or theologically weighty terms. But it was my first introduction to the Greek
- [The paradox of Jesus' glory in John 12](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/the-paradox-of-jesus-glory-in-john-12/) - The lectionary gospel reading for the fifth Sunday in Lent in Year B is John 12.20–33, and here we are reading the text in a strange order! There are clear indications that this passage follows on, in terms of both contexts and themes, from the first part of John 12, which describes the so-called 'triumphal
- [The Paradox of Jesus' glory in John 12 video discussion](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/the-paradox-of-jesus-glory-in-john-12-video-discussion/) - The lectionary gospel reading for the fifth Sunday in Lent in Year B is John 12.20–33, which follows the passage we read next week! It is in three parts: the approach of the Greek who 'want to see Jesus'; three sayings of Jesus, two of which are also found in the Synoptics; and the voice
- [Should the Church generate a £1 billion fund for slavery reparations?](https://www.psephizo.com/life-ministry/should-the-church-generate-a-1-billion-fund-for-slavery-reparations/) - PR car-crashes for the Church of England are like buses—there are none for ages, then three come along at once. Except for the Church of England, the 'there are none for ages' bit isn't true. Following the constant stream of negative publicity about the sexuality debates, we then had two reports on safeguarding, Wilkinson and
- [The Church of England after COVID: quo vadis?](https://www.psephizo.com/life-ministry/the-church-of-england-after-covid-quo-vadis/) - David Goodhew writes: The Church of England is beginning to recognize that the years of COVID had a hugely corrosive effect. The Church lost a fifth of its congregation members in 2019–22; more, if we just count children and families. So, quo vadis, where does the Church go next? Well, there is bad news and
- [God's love for the world—and judgement—in John 3 video discussion](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/gods-love-for-the-world-and-judgement-in-john-3-video-discussion/) - The gospel lectionary reading for Lent 4 in Year B is John 3.14–22, the monologue ending of Jesus’ conversation with Nicodemus, which includes perhaps the best-known verse in the New Testament at John 3.16. It is intimidating to talk about such a well-known passage—can we say anything new?—but also to deal with such a large
- [God’s love for the world—and judgement—in John 3](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/gods-love-for-the-world-and-judgement-in-john-3/) - The gospel lectionary reading for Lent 4 in Year B is John 3.14–22, the monologue ending of Jesus' conversation with Nicodemus, which includes perhaps the best-known verse in the New Testament at John 3.16. It is intimidating to talk about such a well-known passage—can we say anything new?—but also to deal with such a large
- [Why does Jesus cleanse the temple in John 2?](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/why-does-jesus-cleanse-the-temple-in-john-2/) - The gospel lectionary reading for Lent 3 in Year B is John 2.13–22, the Fourth Gospel's account of Jesus 'cleansing' the temple and driving out the traders and money-changers. After quite a bit of immersion in passages from Mark's gospel, it is an interesting contrast to be back in John. No driving narrative here, but
- [What happened at Synod with clergy pensions?](https://www.psephizo.com/life-ministry/what-happened-at-synod-with-clergy-pensions/) - The session of General Synod this February 2024 contained a large number of contentious issues, so there was a general sense of dread as the sessions began. But there was an outbreak of unanimity when it came to discuss my Private Member's Motion on clergy pensions. I had been concerned for some years at both
- [Artificial intelligence: a guide for the perplexed](https://www.psephizo.com/reviews/artificial-intelligence-a-guide-for-the-perplexed/) - A former airline pilot, Simon Cross left industry to complete a PhD focusing on the metaphysical tensions in scientific perspectives on divine action. For the past four years he has worked for the Church of England researching technology ethics and the regulatory and governance challenges AI poses for society. He has written a fantastic Grove
- [Jesus cleansing the temple in John 2 video discussion](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/jesus-cleansing-the-temple-in-john-2-video-discussion/) - The gospel lectionary reading for Lent 3 in Year B is John 2.13–22, the Fourth Gospel’s account of Jesus ‘cleansing’ the temple and driving out the traders and money-changers. After quite a bit of immersion in passages from Mark’s gospel, it is an interesting contrast to be back in John. The contrast with the Synoptics
- [What sort of story is 'Living in Love and Faith'?](https://www.psephizo.com/sexuality-2/what-sort-of-story-is-living-in-love-and-faith/) - Andrew Goddard writes: This article seeks to make sense of the LLF process and what sort of story it might be. It does so in the light of some of the key new information about LLF to be found in answers to questions at General Synod yesterday, particularly those relating to legal advice and its
- [Clergy conduct and the doctrine of marriage](https://www.psephizo.com/sexuality-2/clergy-conduct-and-the-doctrine-of-marriage/) - Andrew Goddard writes: The question as to whether it would be right for the Pastoral Guidance to change the current teaching and discipline of the Church of England in relation to clergy (and in some places licensed lay ministers) is one of the challenging questions still left unresolved. The latest paper for General Synod (GS
- [What colour was Jesus' robe? And why does it matter?](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/what-colour-was-jesus-robe-and-why-does-it-matter/) - If you read the accounts of Jesus' trial and death, three things might strike you. First, it is very important to each of the gospel writers; it would be absurd in a modern text about a person's life to spend such a large proportion of what are comparatively short documents focussing on just a few
- [The call to take up our cross and follow Jesus in Mark 8](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/the-call-to-take-up-our-cross-and-follow-jesus-in-mark-8/) - The gospel lectionary reading for Lent 2 in Year B is Mark 8.31-38, Jesus' call on all those who would follow him to 'take up their cross' and walk the path that he did. This includes one of the first verses I learnt by heart as a new Christian (Mark 8.34), but it is also
- [LLF and General Synod: 'all fouled up' or 'beyond repair'?](https://www.psephizo.com/sexuality-2/llf-and-general-synod-all-fouled-up-or-beyond-repair/) - Summary: The new paper for February’s General Synod lifts the lid on much that has previously been kept under cover in terms of both significant decisions by bishops and the content of legal advice. What it reveals is not a pretty sight and brings to light the depths of the problems. Drawing on a fuller
- [The call to take up our cross and follow Jesus in Mark 8 video discussion](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/the-call-to-take-up-our-cross-and-follow-jesus-in-mark-8-video-discussion/) - The gospel lectionary reading for Lent 2 in Year B is Mark 8.31-38, Jesus’ call on all those who would follow him to ‘take up their cross’ and walk the path that he did. This includes one of the first verses I learnt by heart as a new Christian (Mark 8.34), but it is also
- [What does Joel tell us about the promises of God?](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/what-does-joel-tell-us-about-the-promises-of-god/) - I write a quarterly column for Preach magazine, in which I explore a significant word or phrase in the Bible, or a theme or section of Scripture, and the ideas that it expresses. At the end of this piece I list the previous articles I have written for them. Here I explore what the prophet
- [15 things I have learnt in Christian ministry](https://www.psephizo.com/life-ministry/15-things-i-have-learnt-in-christian-ministry/) - Andy Mason writes: Of course, as you get older in ministry you look back at where you’ve come from (I’m now 50). You can’t help but reflect on the things you have learnt along the way. And, boy, there are many things I wish I could’ve said to myself. I’m not sure I would’ve listened
- [The baptism, temptation, and preaching of Jesus in Mark 1](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/the-baptism-temptation-and-preaching-of-jesus-in-mark-1/) - https://youtu.be/VvQitAqOpps The Sunday lectionary gospel reading for the First Sunday of Lent in Year B is Mark 1.9–15. Come and join Ian and James as they discuss the text in the video above, or explore the commentary below. I have to say I am finding what the lectionary is doing with the opening chapter of
- [What can revival teach us about the renewal of the church?](https://www.psephizo.com/reviews/what-can-revival-teach-us-about-the-renewal-of-the-church/) - Dr Ian Randall has had a long interest in questions around spirituality, evangelical identity, and revival. He has just published a fascinating Grove booklet on Revival: learning from history in the Spirituality series. I was able to ask him about the booklet, and his reflections arising from his study of revival. IP: There often seems to
- [Canon B5A: in or out? Ten key questions for the bishops](https://www.psephizo.com/sexuality-2/canon-b5a-in-or-out-ten-key-questions-for-the-bishops/) - Andrew Goddard writes: In February’s General Synod, two of the divisive looming questions are: introducing standalone services for same sex couples experimentally using Canon B5A; and whether we should “reset” the LLF process. This article asks if, rather than polarise again around these two issues, an apparent consensus on the need for greater honesty and
- [What is being 'transfigured' in Mark 9?](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/what-is-being-transfigured-in-mark-9/) - This week’s lectionary gospel reading, the last Sunday before Lent, is Mark 9.2–9, this gospel’s account of the Transfiguration. I confess I don't quite understand the logic of reading about the transfiguration here, just before we look at the temptations of Jesus in the desert as the introduction to Lent, especially when we will revisit it at
- [What is being ‘transfigured’ in Mark 9? video discussion](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/what-is-being-transfigured-in-mark-9-video-discussion/) - This week’s lectionary gospel reading, the last Sunday before Lent, is Mark 9.2–9, this gospel’s account of the Transfiguration. It feels like an odd place to be considering this as we anticipate the season of Lent. All three Synoptic accounts place this immediately after Peter’s confession of Jesus at Caesarea Philippi, where Jesus then starts
- [How can we speak up well on controversial and contested issues?](https://www.psephizo.com/life-ministry/how-can-we-speak-up-well-on-controversial-and-contested-issues/) - I was recently asked to write a short piece on this question to form part of a discussion on resilience in ministry. This is an expanded version of what I said. There are two strong tendencies in contemporary culture, and both of these affect conversations that we do and don’t have within the church. The
- [Do we know what good preaching looks like?](https://www.psephizo.com/preaching-2/do-we-know-what-good-preaching-looks-like/) - There is a general nervousness about assessment, evaluation and feedback amongst those in public ministry, particularly amongst those who are ordained, but also for anyone engaged in doing things 'up front' in a ministry context. This is natural and understandable; in many contexts, being involved in public ministry often requires that you (literally) stand apart
- [Jesus the word become flesh in John 1](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/jesus-the-word-become-flesh-in-john-1/) - Every now and then, I catch myself tuning in to the Antiques Roadshow, mostly in order to see the reaction of those who have brought along heirlooms when they discover their value. Last week a woman brought in two not very impressive plates, one of which was broken in half and poorly held together with
- [Do we ignore the biblical teaching on usury?](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/do-we-ignore-the-biblical-teaching-on-usury/) - It is often claimed that contemporary Christians ignore the biblical teaching that prohibits usury—usually interpreted to mean either lending at interest or lending at excessive interest. This is significant for three main reasons: The suggestion is then made that in other areas of ethical debate (sexuality, divorce, gender relations, the Sabbath principle, other areas of
- [Jesus as the word become flesh in John 1 video discussion](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/jesus-as-the-word-become-flesh-in-john-1-video-discussion/) - The lectionary gospel reading for the Second Sunday before Advent is John 1. Like a precious family heirloom, we know that we need to handle it with care—but the danger is that we leave it on the shelf and never actually learn to read it well! It contains remarkable riches in terms of its language,
- [Why plant churches?](https://www.psephizo.com/life-ministry/why-plant-churches/) - Dr Christian Selvaratnam is Dean at St Hild College in Yorkshire and founder of the Centre for Church Planting. He has just written a Grove booklet on Why Plant Churches? and I was able to ask him about some of the remarkable impact of church planting. IP: I was amazed to read how important church planting has
- [The startling authority of Jesus in Mark chapter 1](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/the-startling-authority-of-jesus-in-mark-chapter-1/) - The gospel lectionary reading for Epiphany 4 in Year B is Mark 1.21–28, Mark's account of the beginning of Jesus' ministry. It is, like all the early parts of Mark, highly compressed, but it is packed full of fascinating detail which begins to set the agenda for Mark's portrayal of Jesus. The episode is striking
- [The startling authority of Jesus in Mark 1 video discussion](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/the-startling-authority-of-jesus-in-mark-1-video-discussion/) - The gospel lectionary reading for Epiphany 4 in Year B is Mark 1.21–28, Mark’s account of the beginning of Jesus’ ministry. It is, like all the early parts of Mark, highly compressed, but it is packed full of fascinating detail which begins to set the agenda for Mark’s portrayal of Jesus. The episode is striking
- [Tyndale NT study group 2024: Luke and Acts](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/tyndale-new-testament-study-group-2024-luke-and-acts/) - The theme for the Tyndale New Testament Study group this year is Luke and Acts, and we are meeting from Wednesday 3rd ­to Friday 5th July 2024 at High Leigh Conference Centre in Hertfordshire, just 20 minutes north of London by train and 45 minutes from Cambridge. It is an excellent site, with good accommodation
- [The path to Prayers of Love and Faith: time for a reset?](https://www.psephizo.com/sexuality-2/prayers-of-love-and-faith-how-did-we-get-here-where-do-we-go/) - Andrew Goddard writes: The commendation of Prayers of Love and Faith (PLF) as 2023 drew to a close marked a significant development in the life of the Church of England. Whatever one thinks of that step, multiple aspects of the process that led up to it were for me more concerning and revealing about the
- [The end of the road for C of E growth strategies?](https://www.psephizo.com/life-ministry/the-end-of-the-road-for-c-of-e-growth-strategies/) - At last week's Diocesan Synod in Chelmsford Diocese, a paper was discussed which proposed a radical reduction of stipendiary clergy posts from 275 to 215 within the next 18 months, a reduction of 22%. (Since these papers are in the public domain, you can read it for yourself here.) Despite some of these positions already
- [How can we journey with God through the wilderness this Lent?](https://www.psephizo.com/reviews/how-can-we-journey-with-god-through-the-wilderness-this-lent/) - Mark Broadway is vicar of a seaside parish in Wales, and has just had his first book published: Journeying with God in the Wilderness: A 40 Day Lent Devotional through the book of Numbers. I read the book pre-publication, and found it very engaging—and had a chance to ask Mark about what led him to
- [What is the meaning of the stone jars at Cana in John 2?](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/what-is-the-meaning-of-the-stone-jars-at-cana-in-john-2/) - The Sunday lectionary gospel in Year B for Epiphany 3 is John 2.1–11, the 'sign' of Jesus turning water into wine at the wedding in Cana. (The ecumenical lectionary has a reading for Mark instead, but in the Church of England version of the lectionary, it is the reading on Epiphany 3 in Year B
- [The meaning of the water turned to wine at Cana in John 2 video discussion](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/the-meaning-of-the-water-turned-to-wine-at-cana-in-john-2-video-discussion/) - The Sunday lectionary gospel in Year B for Epiphany 3 is John 2.1–11, the ‘sign’ of Jesus turning water into wine at the wedding in Cana. (The ecumenical version of the lectionary has a reading from Mark; in the Church of England version of the lectionary, it was also the reading on Epiphany 3 in
- [The crisis of episcopal leadership in the Church of England](https://www.psephizo.com/life-ministry/the-crisis-of-episcopal-leadership-in-the-church-of-england/) - We have a serious crisis in the episcopal leadership of the Church of England. It has more than one dimension to it, and, as with any crisis, it has been a long time coming. If your ceiling caves in because a water leak has weakened the structures, you can be sure that the water has
- [Why no-one wants the Prayers of Love and Faith](https://www.psephizo.com/sexuality-2/why-no-one-wants-the-prayers-of-love-and-faith/) - Sue Donymous writes: A major problem with the Prayers of Love and Faith package (PLF) that scraped through Synod is that no one actually wants this approach. The only caveat to that ‘no one’ is that—for now—some who want to see much greater change will swallow PLF (and just about stomach it) as a step
- [Jesus calls Philip and Nathanael in John 1](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/jesus-calls-philip-and-nathanael-in-john-1-2/) - The gospel lectionary reading for the Second Sunday in Epiphany is the next stage in Jesus' initial encounter with the first disciples in John 1.43–51, in which Philip introduces Nathanael to Jesus. Like other passages in this early part of the Fourth Gospel, it is quite a sparse narrative, but laden with significance, including anticipations
- [Have evangelicals made secret plans to split the Church?](https://www.psephizo.com/sexuality-2/have-evangelicals-made-secret-plans-to-split-the-church/) - Andrew Goddard writes: In response to Nic Tall’s recent argument that CEEC and others have been “plotting the division of the Church of England”, this article: Offers an alternative personal perspective from within CEEC and a critique of the partial nature of his account. Argues that CEEC has in practice recently become more, not less, broad
- [Is the Epiphany in Matthew 2 myth or reality?](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/is-the-epiphany-in-matthew-2-myth-or-reality-2/) - I am reposting here a longer article on the Epiphany, the visit of the magi to the young Jesus, as recorded in Matthew 2. The article is in several sections. First, a general exploration of the role it plays in the nativity story in Matthew, and the question of the relation of Matthew with Luke.
- [Is the Epiphany in Matthew 2 myth or reality?](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/is-the-epiphany-in-matthew-2-myth-or-reality/) - The story of the (three?) magi (wise men? kings?) in Matthew 2.1–11 has gripped the popular imagination—but some also question whether the story has coherence and credibility. What was the actual context in which the story is set? Does it ring true? And how does it fit with the gospel of Matthew as it unfolds?
- [What is the future direction for Christian social action?](https://www.psephizo.com/life-ministry/what-is-the-future-direction-for-christian-social-action/) - Jon Kuhrt writes: This is a longer article written to provoke discussion about the key challenges and future direction for Christian social action in the UK. Stand at the crossroads and look; ask for ancient paths, ask where the good way is, and walk in it, and you will find rest for your souls. Jeremiah
- [What does the turn of the New Year teach us?](https://www.psephizo.com/life-ministry/what-does-the-turn-of-the-new-year-teach-us/) - I first posted this a year ago, and was intrigued to re-read it. The particular reason is that, as I wrote, I had just experienced four months with a pulled hamstring, finding walking, sitting or driving very painful, and requiring that I took a cocktail of painkillers. I was facing a biopsy under general anaesthetic
- [Was Jesus actually born into a 'poor' family?](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/was-jesus-actually-born-into-a-poor-family/) - It is fascinating to see the way that traditions have grown up around the celebration of Christmas, and how many of those traditions are not merely absent from the Bible, but in fact contradict not only the content of the Bible, but the heart of its message. Somehow, where the birth narratives in Scripture are
- [Recovering the lost virtue of naiveté](https://www.psephizo.com/life-ministry/recovering-the-lost-virtue-of-naivete/) - 'Gosh, I never realised….X'. 'Really? I knew that ages ago—it's pretty common knowledge you know!' I wonder if you've ever had that kind of conversation—at work, or church, or amongst friends or family. You have assumed that things are as they were claimed to be, or presented, but all the time 'everybody' 'knew' that
- [The Pope, same-sex unions, and the blessing of fornicating boxers](https://www.psephizo.com/sexuality-2/the-pope-same-sex-unions-and-the-blessing-of-fornicating-boxers/) - Joshua Penduck writes: ‘Pope says Roman Catholic priests can bless same-sex couples’ declared the BBC News website. It was not alone in this. Anglo-American newspapers, news outlets, and websites emblazoned across their banners this seemingly huge shift in the ethics and polity of the Roman Catholic Church. Liberal Roman Catholics such as James Martin SJ
- [The annunciation to Mary in the Gospel of Luke](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/the-annunciation-to-mary-in-the-gospel-of-luke/) - The lectionary gospel reading for the Fourth Sunday in Advent is Luke 1.26–38; though this year's gospel is Mark, there is (of course) no annunciation in Mark, so we plunder part of Luke's narrative to fill the gap. I have previously posted on the annunciation in more general terms, noting that the account is rooted
- [The annunciation to Mary in Luke 1 video discussion](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/the-annunciation-to-mary-in-luke-1-video-discussion/) - The lectionary gospel reading for the Fourth Sunday in Advent is Luke 1.26–38; though this year’s gospel is Mark, there is (of course) no annunciation in Mark, so we plunder part of Luke’s narrative to fill the gap. I have previously posted on the annunciation in more general terms, noting that the account is rooted
- [Why do Matthew and Luke offer us different nativity stories?](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/why-do-matthew-and-luke-offer-us-different-nativity-stories/) - James Bejon offers this fascinating exploration of the differences between Matthew and Luke. For a discussion of the historical issues in Luke's nativity narrative, see this article. As Christians, most of us are familiar with harmonised versions of the NT’s birth narratives. We see them acted out each year in Nativity plays (if we subject
- [Are all sins the same?](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/are-all-sins-the-same/) - When particular issues come up for debate, or are the focus of dispute amongst Christians, a question that is commonly lurking in the background—and might make its presence felt explicitly—is ‘why this issue?’ ‘Why are we not talking about all the other things we might debate?’ In some contexts, this can function as 'whataboutery', a
- [The testimony of John the Baptist in John 1 video discussion](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/the-testimony-of-john-the-baptist-in-john-1-video-discussion/) - The lectionary gospel reading for Advent 3 is John 1.6–8 and 19–28, which picks out parts of John the Baptist’s testimony from the first chapter of the Fourth Gospel. Despite being highly selective from this remarkable opening chapter, it nevertheless contains key words and ideas that are carried through the whole gospel. Come and join
- [Commending Prayers of Love and Faith—more questions than answers](https://www.psephizo.com/sexuality-2/commending-prayers-of-love-and-faith-more-questions-than-answers/) - Andrew Goddard writes: Following General Synod, the House of Bishops has to decide (perhaps this Tuesday, 12th December) on two key matters relating to Prayers of Love and Faith (PLF): whether and when to commend the Suite of Prayers for use in regular services under Canon B5 and how to proceed with the “standalone services” that
- [John the Baptist's testimony in John 1](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/john-the-baptists-testimony-in-john-1/) - The lectionary gospel reading for Advent 3 is John 1.6–8 and 19–28, which picks out parts of John the Baptist's testimony from the first chapter of the Fourth Gospel. Despite being highly selective from this remarkable opening chapter, it nevertheless contains key words and ideas that are carried through the whole gospel. Perhaps the most
- [Prayers of Love and Faith: a divided vote—a divided Church?](https://www.psephizo.com/sexuality-2/prayers-of-love-and-faith-a-divided-vote-a-divided-church/) - Andrew Goddard writes: After the February General Synod I presented quite a lengthy voting analysis. This offers a shorter reflection on what we can see from the now published voting sheets from November. What is obvious simply from comparing the votes on the final motions is that the vote was even closer and the Synod
- [How does the Bible depict the relationship between men and women?](https://www.psephizo.com/gender-2/how-does-the-bible-depict-the-relationship-between-men-and-women/) - Andrew Bartlett has written the outstanding study Men and Women in Christ: fresh light from the biblical texts which I think should be compulsory reading for anyone interested in this question. Here, he reviews another book on this subject, Men and Women in the Church: A Short, Biblical, Practical Introduction (Crossway, 2021) by Kevin DeYoung. Looking at
- [The beginning of the gospel in Mark 1](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/the-beginning-of-the-gospel-in-mark-1/) - The gospel lectionary reading for the Second Sunday in Advent in this Year B is Mark 1.1–8. This is a slightly odd choice, since in a few weeks' time, for Epiphany Sunday, we will be reading Mark 1.4–11, which goes on to include the brief account of Jesus' baptism. Four years ago, before all the
- [The beginning of the gospel in Mark 1 video discussion](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/the-beginning-of-the-gospel-in-mark-1-video-discussion/) - The gospel lectionary reading for the Second Sunday in Advent in this Year B is Mark 1.1–8. This is a slightly odd choice, since in a few weeks' time, for Epiphany Sunday, we will be reading Mark 1.4–11, which goes on to include the brief account of Jesus' baptism. But this opening of the gospel
- [How can we offer a message of transforming hope at Christmas?](https://www.psephizo.com/reviews/how-can-we-offer-a-message-of-transforming-hope-at-christmas/) - Pat Allerton became known as the 'Portable Priest' during Covid for taking his message out onto the streets of London during lockdown. He has written an accessible book A Pocketful of Hope and I had the chance to ask him about it and his ministry. IP: During Covid, you become known as the ‘Portable Priest’ in
- [Is the 'coming' of Jesus in Mark 13 all about the end of the world?](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/is-the-coming-of-jesus-in-mark-13-all-about-the-end-of-the-world/) - With the turn of the lectionary year, next Sunday we are in the first Sunday of Advent in Year B, and our gospel reading of Mark 13.24–37 plunges us straight into the questions around the anticipation of Jesus' return at The End. (It is worth noting that there is no compelling (theo)logical reason why this
- [Jesus was not born in a stable—and it really matters!](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/jesus-was-not-born-in-a-stable-and-it-really-matters/) - What do you find most irritating about this time of year? The drawing in of dark and cold nights? The hideous adoption of that consumerist import 'Black Friday'? People putting up Christmas trees when we have only just started Advent? Being urged to spend more money by means of schmaltzy human interest mini-dramas? For me,
- [The ‘coming’ of Jesus in Mark 13 video discussion](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/the-coming-of-jesus-in-mark-13-video-discussion/) - With the turn of the lectionary year, this Sunday we are in the first Sunday of Advent in Year B, and our gospel reading of Mark 13.24–37 plunges us straight into the questions around the anticipation of Jesus’ return at The End. Our passage comprises the two closing sections of Mark 13, which is parallel
- ['Nothing has changed': should the bishops 'commend' the Prayers of Love and Faith?](https://www.psephizo.com/sexuality-2/nothing-has-changed-should-the-bishops-commend-the-prayers-of-love-and-faith/) - Andrew Goddard writes: The process of commendation of liturgy does not give any legal status to what is commended, and in the debates about the Prayers of Love and Faith (PLF) it has been claimed that law and doctrine are not being changed. To commend the Prayers of Love and Faith is thus to claim
- [Is there an analogy between divorce-and-remarriage and same-sex marriage?](https://www.psephizo.com/sexuality-2/is-there-an-analogy-between-divorce-and-remarriage-and-same-sex-marriage/) - Ann Onymous writes: The journey to remarriage following a divorce is necessarily a painful one. Although it is now something of a trope (with increasing divorce rates and newspapers reporting on more and more celebrities and politicians who are on their third or fourth marriage) that marriage is beginning to be seen as something temporary, something
- [Is the Bible contradictory on sexuality?](https://www.psephizo.com/sexuality-2/is-the-bible-contradictory-on-sexuality/) - A recent essay by Walter Brueggemann on the Bible and 'homosexuality' has received wide circulation (I put 'homosexuality' in inverted commas since, although it is included in the title to the essay, it is not a word I ever use in this discussion, since it is poorly defined.) Brueggemann sums up his argument in these
- [The not-parable of the sheep and the goats in Matthew 25](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/the-not-parable-of-the-sheep-and-the-goats-in-matthew-25/) - The gospel reading in the lectionary for the last Sunday before Advent (now known as 'Christ the King') is Matthew 25.31–46, the so-called 'parable of the sheep and the goats'. But it isn't actually a parable (since there is no suggestion that 'the kingdom of heaven is like this'), and isn't really about sheep and goats
- [The ‘parable’ of the sheep and the goats in Matthew 25 video discussion](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/the-parable-of-the-sheep-and-the-goats-in-matthew-25-video-discussion/) - The gospel reading in the lectionary for the last Sunday before Advent (now known as ‘Christ the King’) is Matthew 25.31–46, the so-called ‘parable of the sheep and the goats’. But it isn’t actually a parable (since there is no suggestion that ‘the kingdom of heaven is like this’), and isn’t really about sheep and
- [How do you cope with chronic illness in life and ministry?](https://www.psephizo.com/life-ministry/how-do-you-cope-with-chronic-illness-in-life-and-ministry/) - Andy Mason writes: I’ve been a vicar on a council estate in central London for about 17 years, and have been married for 25 years. During that time, my wife has suffered from a number of distressing chronic conditions. Accordingly, life has, at times, been very unpredictable, very stressful and pretty traumatic. Firstly, my wife
- [Are the Prayers of Love and Faith legal?](https://www.psephizo.com/sexuality-2/are-the-prayers-of-love-and-faith-legal/) - Andrew Goddard writes: Yesterday's debate at Synod on LLF/PLF raises some important and potential serious issues. These include: The bishops’ refusal to give Synod advice from the Legal Office breaks with precedents The Bishop of London’s statement suggested members had the foundation of the theological and legal basis in GS 2328 but there is a
- [The parable of the talents in Matthew 25 video discussion](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/the-parable-of-the-talents-in-matthew-25-video-discussion/) - The lectionary gospel reading for the Second Sunday before Advent as we approach the end of Year A is the so-called Parable of the Talents in Matthew 25.14–30. The most popular interpretation of this is that God gives us abilities and gifts (‘talents’) and leaves us to get on with using them in fruitful and
- [Do the Prayers of Love and Faith have a good rationale?](https://www.psephizo.com/sexuality-2/do-the-prayers-of-love-and-faith-have-a-good-rationale/) - Andrew Goddard writes: What follows explores ten questions relating to the theological rationale that has been offered for the proposed Prayers of Love and Faith (PLF) in Annex H of GS 2328. It argues that a theological rationale needs to state and justify any theological changes from past teaching and show that there is an
- [The parable of the 'talents' in Matthew 25](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/the-parable-of-the-talents-in-matthew-25/) - The lectionary gospel reading for the Second Sunday before Advent as we approach the end of Year A is the so-called Parable of the Talents in Matthew 25.14–30. The most popular interpretation of this is that God gives us abilities and gifts ('talents') and leaves us to get on with using them in fruitful and enterprising
- [What is an 'inclusive evangelical'?](https://www.psephizo.com/sexuality-2/what-is-an-inclusive-evangelical/) - There was a small social media storm last week when the newish group 'Inclusive Evangelicals' issued a letter, with 600 signatories, supporting progress in authorising prayers of blessing for same-sex couples, rooted in the conviction that 'prayerful reading of scripture has led us to an inclusive position on same-sex relationships.' I infer from this that
- [Are there many meanings of Scripture?](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/are-there-many-meanings-of-scripture/) - David Ball writes: When people say, “We read the Bible differently from you,” it begs the question: is there a right or wrong way to read Scripture? In our post-modern context, it is easy for us to think that every reading of Scripture is as legitimate as another. If I read the Bible in a
- [The parable of the wise and foolish virgins in Matthew 25](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/the-parable-of-the-wise-and-foolish-virgins-in-matthew-25-2/) - The lectionary gospel reading for the third Sunday before Advent at the end of Year A is Matt 25.1–13, known as the parable of the wise and foolish virgins. This forms part of the second half of Jesus' teaching about the future. In Matt 24.3, in response to Jesus' prediction of the destruction of the
- [The parable of the wise and foolish virgins in Matthew 25 video discussion](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/the-parable-of-the-wise-and-foolish-virgins-in-matthew-25-video-discussion/) - The lectionary gospel reading for the third Sunday before Advent at the end of Year A is Matt 25.1–13, known as the parable of the wise and foolish virgins. This forms part of the second half of Jesus’ teaching about the future. In Matt 24.3, in response to Jesus’ prediction of the destruction of the
- [What can churches gain from reflecting on their history?](https://www.psephizo.com/life-ministry/what-can-churches-gain-from-reflecting-on-their-history/) - Stephen Kuhrt is Vicar of Christ Church, New Malden and has recently written an illustrated history of his church from its beginnings in the 1850s to 2006. He has also written two volumes on the stained glass windows at the church and their background, which can be found here and here. I asked him about
- [LLF: Will it all now end in tears?](https://www.psephizo.com/sexuality-2/llf-will-it-all-now-end-in-tears/) - Andrew Goddard writes: As people have responded to the latest proposals from the bishops (which I discussed here and here) it looks horribly like the whole LLF process in its current form is going to “all end in tears”. Summary This article seeks to explore why that is the case and why now nobody seems
- [Understanding Jesus' Beatitudes in Matthew 5](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/understanding-jesus-beatitudes-in-matthew-5/) - The gospel lectionary reading for All Saints' Day in Year A is Matthew 5.1–12, which is mostly composed of the set sayings of Jesus known as the Beatitudes, a name derived from the Latin translation of the opening term of each, 'blessed' or 'happy'. (If you are using the alternative reading for the Fourth Sunday
- [Understanding the Beatitudes in Matthew 5 video discussion](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/understanding-the-beatitudes-in-matthew-5-video-discussion/) - The gospel lectionary reading for All Saints’ Day in Year A is Matthew 5.1–12, which is mostly composed of the set sayings of Jesus known as the Beatitudes, a name derived from the Latin translation of the opening term of each, ‘blessed’ or ‘happy’. These sayings are very well known, often being cited as favourite
- [What are the 'cuckoos in the nest' of our church life?](https://www.psephizo.com/reviews/what-are-the-cuckoos-in-the-nest-of-our-church-life/) - Iain Provan taught Old Testament at Regents College Vancouver for 25 years, and I first met him at a conference in Canada many years ago. (We went under the Niagara Falls together!) Iain has written a fascinating book, Cuckoos in Our Nest: Truth and Lies about Being Human. I had the chance to ask him about
- [“Another Fine Mess”? A Guide to Where We Are With LLF Pre-General Synod](https://www.psephizo.com/sexuality-2/another-fine-mess-a-guide-to-where-we-are-with-llf-pre-general-synod/) - Andrew Goddard writes: Last Friday (October 20th), papers were released for the extra General Synod called for November 13th to 15th and focussed on Living in Love and Faith (LLF) and within that the proposed Prayers of Love and Faith (PLF). They provide much more detail than the brief press release issued after the House
- [The greatest commandment and David's lord in Matthew 22](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/the-greatest-commandment-and-davids-lord-in-matthew-22-2/) - The lectionary reading for the so-called 'Last Sunday after Trinity' as we near the end of Year A is Matthew 22.34–46. Having had three symbolic actions from Jesus (entering the city, overturning the tables, withering the fig tree) and three parables (the two sons, the wicked tenants, the wedding banquet), we have now reached the
- [The greatest commandment and David's Lord in Matthew 22 video discussion](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/the-greatest-commandment-and-davids-lord-in-matthew-22-video-discussion/) - The lectionary reading for the so-called ‘Last Sunday after Trinity’ as we near the end of Year A is Matthew 22.34–46. Having had three symbolic actions from Jesus (entering the city, overturning the tables, withering the fig tree) and three parables (the two sons, the wicked tenants, the wedding banquet), we have now reached the
- [What is it like to encounter Jesus?](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/what-is-it-like-to-encounter-jesus/) - I write a quarterly column for Preach magazine, in which I explore a significant word or phrase in the Bible, or a theme or section of Scripture, and the ideas that it expresses. At the end of this piece I list the previous articles I have written for them. Here I explore the question of
- ['Render unto Caesar': the question of taxes in Matthew 22](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/render-unto-caesar-the-question-of-taxes-in-matthew-22/) - The gospel reading for Trinity 20 in Year A is Matthew 22.15–22, the short exchange between Jesus and his opponents on the question of the Roman 'poll' tax. This has important theological implications for our understanding of issues of politics and power, though it is often misread. We are now well embedded in Matthew's triple
- [What does it mean to 'Stick with Love'?](https://www.psephizo.com/reviews/what-does-it-mean-to-stick-with-love/) - Doug McHardie writes: Stick with Love is an Advent devotional book by Arun Arora. Arun was born in Birmingham to a Hindu mother and Sikh father, and studied and practiced law before being ordained. He was for some time Director of Communications in Church House, and is now bishop of Kirkstall in the Diocese of Leeds. I was
- ['Render unto Caesar': the question of taxes in Matt 22 video discussion](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/render-unto-caesar-the-question-of-taxes-in-matt-22-video-discussion/) - The gospel reading for Trinity 20 in Year A is Matthew 22.15–22, the short exchange between Jesus and his opponents on the question of the Roman ‘poll’ tax. This has important theological implications for our understanding of issues of politics and power, though it is often misread. It comes at a particular moment in Matthew's
- [A Letter From The Front Line](https://www.psephizo.com/life-ministry/a-letter-from-the-front-line/) - Oliver Harrison writes: I’m a vicar. I’ve been ordained more than 25 years and in my current post for over 15 years; I am, by some margin, the longest serving member of my deanery clergy chapter. In that time I have changed, the Church of England has changed, and the culture has changed; none, in my
- [Prayers of Love and Faith: what has the House of Bishops done?](https://www.psephizo.com/sexuality-2/prayers-of-love-and-faith-what-has-the-house-of-bishops-done/) - Andrew Goddard writes: The House of Bishops met on Monday October 9th and in the early evening a press release appeared which set out some of their decisions. One of the key questions has been by which canonical route the Prayers of Love and Faith (PLF) will be introduced into the church. The short summary is that
- [What is the place of Israel in the End Times?](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/what-is-the-place-of-israel-in-the-end-times/) - Last week, I recorded a video discussion with historian Martyn Whittock, which arose out of questions he had about Israel and the End Times in the New Testament. The video is quite long, so here I offer a summary of my comments on the main questions that we explored. What is the meaning of the
- [Grace and judgement at the wedding banquet in Matthew 22](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/grace-and-judgement-at-the-wedding-banquet-in-matthew-22/) - The lectionary gospel for Trinity 19 in Year A is Matthew 22.1–14, the parable of the wedding banquet. This is the third of three parables about judgement in this section of the gospel, and these wider chapters all focus on judgement (we will be hearing more about this before we reach Advent), so you might
- [Grace and judgement at the wedding banquet in Matthew 22 video discussion](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/grace-and-judgement-at-the-wedding-banquet-in-matthew-22-video-discussion/) - The lectionary gospel for Trinity 19 in Year A is Matthew 22.1–14, the parable of the wedding banquet. This is the third of three parables about judgement in this section of the gospel, and these wider chapters all focus on judgement (we will be hearing more about this before we reach Advent), so you might
- [Can liturgy be missional?](https://www.psephizo.com/life-ministry/can-liturgy-be-missional/) - One of the current debates happening in the Church of England is about the relation between liturgical forms of worship and the task of mission. Put simply, some would claim that a highly structured and 'liturgical' service—in the sense of being shaped by formal liturgy—creates barriers to outsiders and is therefore an obstacle to mission
- [Prayers of Love and Faith, (Archi-) Episcopal Power, and Anglican Identity](https://www.psephizo.com/sexuality-2/prayers-of-love-and-faith-arch-episcopal-power-and-anglican-identity/) - Andrew Goddard writes: The Church of England is waiting for the bishops to decide (likely on Monday October 9th) the next steps in their discernment concerning Living in Love and Faith (LLF). These will be published shortly after the House of Bishops meets and brought in some form to General Synod (Nov 13th–15th). It is, however,
- [Is Pope Francis changing teaching on marriage and same-sex relationships?](https://www.psephizo.com/sexuality-2/is-pope-francis-changing-teaching-on-marriage-and-same-sex-relationships/) - There was a flurry of both despair and excitement earlier this week, when Pope Francis answered questions raised by a group of five cardinals on a series of questions—about the nature of God's revelation, the possibility of the ordination of women, the role and authority of bishops in relation to the pope, the relation of
- [The parable of the wicked tenants in Matthew 21 video discussion](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/the-parable-of-the-wicked-tenants-in-matthew-21-video-discussion/) - The Sunday lectionary reading for Trinity 18 in Year A is the second of three judgement parables against the Jerusalem leaders in Matt 21.33–46: traditionally, the parable of the wicked husbandmen, or the parable of the wicked tenants. There is plenty to explore within the passage, and in its relation to the surrounding texts—but it
- [The parable of the wicked tenants in Matthew 21](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/the-parable-of-the-wicked-tenants-in-matthew-21/) - The Sunday lectionary reading for Trinity 18 in Year A is the second of three judgement parables against the Jerusalem leaders in Matt 21.33–46: traditionally, the parable of the wicked husbandmen, or the parable of the wicked tenants. There is plenty to explore within the passage, and in its relation to the surrounding texts—but it
- [How can we meet with God in the great outdoors?](https://www.psephizo.com/reviews/how-can-we-meet-with-god-in-the-great-outdoors/) - Richard Tiplady has written a fascinating Grove booklet in the Discipleship series, Following Jesus in the Great Outdoors: Learning about Discipleship from the Mountains. He has a fascinating personal history of involvement in the 'great outdoors', but also offers some really interesting theological reflections on the subject. I had the chance to ask him about
- [What is the connection between maths (and science) and Christian faith?](https://www.psephizo.com/life-ministry/what-is-the-connection-between-maths-and-science-and-christian-faith/) - What is Advent and the End of the World all about? Come and join my Zoom teaching morning on 28th October! I was recently asked to write a short article on 'Why study maths as a Christian?' Here is what I wrote, and at the bottom please find some other perspectives and resources on the
- [Matching our speech and action in Matthew 21 video discussion](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/matching-our-speech-and-action-in-matthew-21-video-discussion/) - The gospel reading for Trinity 17 in year A is Matt 21.23–32. It comes in the same place in the narrative as in Mark and Luke, but then Matthew expands the episode with material unique to his gospel. To make sense of it, we need to know a little of the background situation, and notice
- [Matching our speech and action in Matthew 21](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/matching-our-speech-and-action-in-matthew-21/) - What is Advent and the End of the World all about? Come and join my Zoom teaching morning on 28th October! As we continue to read through Matthew's gospel in ordinary time in the lectionary, for Trinity 17 in Year A we vault over the entry into Jerusalem and land in the middle of Jesus'
- [What did Jesus do with bread?](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/what-did-jesus-do-with-bread/) - What is Advent and the End of the World all about? Come and join my Zoom teaching morning on 28th October! In the various accounts in the New Testament, both in the gospels and in Paul, what did Jesus do with bread? How is his action described? At the feeding of the 5,000, did he
- [B2 or not B2, that is (still!) the question: Thoughts on B5A and the Prayers of Love and Faith](https://www.psephizo.com/sexuality-2/b2-or-not-b2-that-is-still-the-question-thoughts-on-b5a-and-the-prayers-of-love-and-faith/) - Andrew Goddard writes: Back in June I wrote a number of posts concerning the various canons that might be used to introduce the proposed Prayers of Love and Faith (PLF) into the liturgical life of the Church of England. In three parts it considered the original proposal to commend for use at the discretion of the
- [Will the world end on 23rd September?](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/will-the-world-end-on-23rd-september/) - The latest prediction of the end of the world, based on an 'interpretation' of Revelation 12, is that it will all happen at the end of the week on Saturday 23rd September. [This was first written in 2017. I now see that the linked video has been switched to 'private' to cover up the failure
- [The uncalculating generosity of God in Matthew 20](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/the-uncalculating-generosity-of-god-in-matthew-20/) - The lectionary reading for Trinity 16 in Year A is the parable of the workers in the vineyard in Matt 20.1–16. Once more in the lectionary we are focussing on Jesus' teaching that is recorded only in Matthew, just as we did with the parable of the unforgiving servant in Matt 18. Like the previous
- [The uncalculating generosity of God in Matthew 20 video discussion](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/the-uncalculating-generosity-of-god-in-matthew-20-video-discussion/) - The lectionary reading for Trinity 16 in Year A is the parable of the workers in the vineyard in Matt 20.1–16. Once more in the lectionary we are focussing on Jesus' teaching that is recorded only in Matthew, just as we did with the parable of the unforgiving servant in Matt 18. Like the previous
- [Making sense of the end of the world teaching morning](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/making-sense-of-the-end-of-the-world-teaching-morning-2/) - As we approach Advent once more, we are confronted with issues around the End of the World. What was Jesus talking about in Matthew 24 and Mark 13? Did he and his earliest followers expect the world to end in their lifetime? What about popular ideas like the 'rapture' and the 'tribulation'? Are they found
- [Prayers of Love and Faith: The C of E’s Brexit moment?](https://www.psephizo.com/sexuality-2/prayers-of-love-and-faith-the-c-of-es-brexit-moment/) - Andrew Goddard writes: When serving on the Co-ordinating Group of Living in Love and Faith (LLF) from 2017 to 2020 there were inevitably parallels drawn at various points between our work and the contemporaneous national Brexit debate. How was the way we were handling in the Church of the England the complex, seemingly irresolvable, and divisive
- [The heart of forgiveness in Matthew 18 video discussion](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/the-heart-of-forgiveness-in-matthew-18-video-discussion/) - The lectionary gospel reading for Trinity 15 in Year A is Matt 18.21–35. It continues Matthew’s collection of Jesus’ teaching about life in the ekklesia—not the ‘church’ as we would understand it now, but within the community of God, gathered around obedience to Jesus himself. Jesus' teaching here is striking, in that is shifts the
- [What is the heart of forgiveness in Matthew 18?](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/what-is-the-heart-of-forgiveness-in-matthew-18/) - The lectionary gospel reading for Trinity 15 in Year A is Matt 18.21–35. It continues Matthew’s collection of Jesus’ teaching about life in the ekklesia—not the ‘church’ as we would understand it now, but within the community of God, gathered around obedience to Jesus himself. We might, when reading this in the context of the
- [Tyndale NT Study Group 2024: Call for papers on Luke-Acts](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/tyndale-nt-study-group-2024-call-for-papers-on-luke-acts/) - The theme for the Tyndale Fellowship New Testament Study Group in 2024 is The Gospel of Luke and the Acts of the Apostles, and we are meeting from Wednesday 3rd to Friday 5th July 2024 at the excellent conference facility at High Leigh, Hoddesdon, which is in very easy reach of both London and Cambridge. The
- [Being responsible for one another in Matthew 18](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/being-responsible-for-one-another-in-matthew-18/) - The gospel reading for Trinity 14 in Year A, Matt 18.15–20, comes within the fourth of the five collections of teaching organised by Matthew to, in some sense, present Jesus as a new Moses. Having focussed on discipleship (Matt 5–7), mission (Matt 10), and the kingdom of heaven (Matt 13), this collection gathers sayings on
- [Tyndale NT Study Group 2023: Call for papers](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/tyndale-nt-study-group-2023-call-for-papers/) - The Holy Spirit is described in the New Testament as the 'end times' gift of God to his people, in fulfilment of Old Testament hope and promise, and as his empowering presence for his people in their life, ministry, and witness. But different writers emphasise the Spirit in different ways, and describes the Spirit's role
- [Being responsible for one another in Matt 18 video discussion](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/being-responsible-for-one-another-in-matt-18-video-discussion/) - The gospel reading for Trinity 14 in Year A, Matt 18.15–20, comes within the fourth of the five collections of teaching organised by Matthew to, in some sense, present Jesus as a new Moses. Having focussed on discipleship (Matt 5–7), mission (Matt 10), and the kingdom of heaven (Matt 13), this collection gathers sayings on
- [Taking up our cross in Matthew 16](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/taking-up-our-cross-in-matthew-16/) - The lectionary gospel reading for Trinity 13 in Year A is Matthew 16.21–28, in which Jesus declares he is heading for Jerusalem to die, Peter rebukes him, and Jesus counter-rebukes Peter. It follows on from the strong commendation of Peter by Jesus after his confession at Caesarea Philippi, and offers a contrast with it at
- [What do Anglican clergy think about 'Christian' Britain, sexuality, and clergy morale?](https://www.psephizo.com/life-ministry/what-do-anglican-clergy-think-about-christian-britain-sexuality-and-clergy-morale/) - At the end of July, Kaya Burgess, the Religious Affairs correspondent of The Times, sent out an email to 5,000 Church of England clergy, inviting them to complete a questionnaire giving their views on a whole range of issues, including whether Britain is a 'Christian' country any more, the Church's teaching on sexuality, their own
- [Should cathedrals be used as discos or playgrounds?](https://www.psephizo.com/life-ministry/should-cathedrals-be-used-as-discos-or-playgrounds/) - There has been another furore on social media this summer about the use of cathedral space. The one that caught my attention is the use of Chichester Cathedral for a 'silent disco', where the music is broadcast to wireless headphones rather than through a speaker system. Whilst quite a number of commentators have expressed horror
- [Queer Holiness: A Review and Critique I: Introduction](https://www.psephizo.com/sexuality-2/queer-holiness-a-review-and-critique-i-introduction/) - Joshua Penduck writes: The following is a review and critique of Charlie Bell’s book Queer Holiness: The Gift of LGBTQI People to the Church. It will be divided into four blog posts (though a complete version of the review can be found here: Review-of-Charlie-Bell-Queer-Holiness). The first part is an introduction to Queer Holiness, plus the beginnings of
- [Queer Holiness: A Review and Critique II: A (Very) Flawed Text](https://www.psephizo.com/sexuality-2/queer-holiness-a-review-and-critique-ii-a-very-flawed-text/) - Joshua Penduck writes: In Part I of this review of Charlie Bell’s book, Queer Holiness, after outlining his overall argument, I noted that the hints and implications of some of his arguments lead to a ‘sacralisation’ of contemporary Western norms for sexual ethics, that is, equating our current culture with divine revelation. As such, I proposed
- [Queer Holiness: A Review and Critique III: What has gone wrong?](https://www.psephizo.com/sexuality-2/queer-holiness-a-review-and-critique-iii-what-has-gone-wrong/) - Joshua Penduck writes: Let’s review. Bell has argued that the Church of England must reach the point of accepting gay marriage as well as implying some kind of concordance with contemporary sexual ethics in the modern West (his suggestive reference to aggiornamento on p 159 is revealing). Although the Bible has a narrative function within this,
- [Queer Holiness: A Review and Critique IV: Revelation, Scripture, and Science](https://www.psephizo.com/sexuality-2/queer-holiness-a-review-and-critique-iv-revelation-scripture-and-science/) - Joshua Penduck writes: In this long review, I have explored several critiques of Charlie Bell’s book Queer Holiness. In Part II, I looked out how despite all the merits of his book (some of which were outlined in Part I), his polemical rhetoric has led to problems of internal inconsistency, privilege, strawmanning, othering, a lack of
- [Taking up our cross in Matthew 16 video discussion](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/taking-up-our-cross-in-matthew-16-video-discussion/) - The lectionary gospel reading for Trinity 13 in Year A is Matthew 16.21–28, in which Jesus declares he is heading for Jerusalem to die, Peter rebukes him, and Jesus counter-rebukes Peter. It follows on from the strong commendation of Peter by Jesus after his confession at Caesarea Philippi, and offers a contrast with it at
- [The turning point: Peter's confession in Matthew 16](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/the-turning-point-peters-confession-in-matthew-16/) - The reading for Trinity 12 in Year A is Matt 16.13–20, quite a short reading, but forming in Matthew, as the episode does in Mark, a pivotal moment in the gospel narrative, where, at the northernmost point of his ministry, Jesus turns from the adulation of the crowds in Galilee to the opposition of the
- [Should we change church service times for football?](https://www.psephizo.com/life-ministry/should-we-change-church-service-times-for-football/) - At the end of last week there was a bit of a kerfuffle in the press and on social media about the relative importance of the final of the women's football World Cup (which England lost to Spain 1–0) and church service times. Kaya Burgess at The Times posted a report under the headline: Skip
- [What makes giving feedback work well?](https://www.psephizo.com/life-ministry/what-makes-giving-feedback-work-well/) - I have spent more nearly 40 years giving feedback and encouraging others to do so in a range of professional, personal and ministerial contexts. These have included being a personnel professional in an FMCG multi-national, being an ordained leader working with lay and ordained colleagues, and in the context of theological education. As a result
- [Is church attendance in England and Wales in decline? video discussion](https://www.psephizo.com/life-ministry/is-church-attendance-in-england-and-wales-in-decline-video-discussion/) - In the previous post, I asked Dr Rhiannon McAleer of Bible Society about their research on church attendance in partnership with YouGov, and the surprising and encouraging findings. In this video, we discuss the issues, including their findings around Bible interest and engagement, and the moments in life when people are most open to thinking
- [Did the Canaanite woman teach Jesus not to be racist in Matt 15?](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/did-the-canaanite-woman-teach-jesus-not-to-be-racist-in-matt-15/) - The episode of Jesus' encounter with the Canaanite woman in the lectionary reading for Trinity 11 in Year A from Matt 15.21–28 (or Syrophoenician woman as she is called in the parallel Mark 7.24–30) often brings readers up short, containing as it does what appears to be a rather shocking insult. Jesus is seeking to
- [The Elder and the Lady: A look at the language of 2 John](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/the-elder-and-the-lady-a-look-at-the-language-of-2-john/) - Margaret Mowczko writes: There are several women mentioned in the New Testament who in the past have had their ministries downplayed. Even today, some question whether Phoebe was deacon or minister of her church (Rom. 16:1–2), or whether Junia was really an apostle. Junia and a woman named Nympha have even had their gender obscured and
- [Is church attendance in England and Wales in decline?](https://www.psephizo.com/life-ministry/is-church-attendance-in-england-and-wales-in-decline/) - Last month, Mark Woods of the Bible Society wrote an article in the Baptist Times challenging the narrative that the Church in England and Wales is in decline, based on the Bible Society's own research. I was intrigued by this, so I asked Dr Rhiannon McAleer, Head of Research and Impact, about what they had found. IP:
- [On Drag Going to Church](https://www.psephizo.com/sexuality-2/on-drag-going-to-church/) - Mike Starkey writes: In recent years drag has gone mainstream. Actually, it’s bigger than that. Drag has become all-conquering, ubiquitous, the performance art of the moment. The art of cross-dressing for entertainment has a long history, often confined to spaces frequented by consenting adults. By the late 20th century in Britain, drag was drawing an enthusiastic
- [Jesus—with Peter—walking on the water in Matthew 14](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/jesus-with-peter-walking-on-the-water-in-matthew-14/) - The Sunday lectionary reading for Trinity 10 in Year A is Matt 14.22–33, Matthew's distinctive account of Jesus walking across the water and Peter's response to it. I am finding this recent, sustained immersion in Matthew's narrative very interesting. We have often noted how Matthew's accounts are more compressed than the other gospels, particularly Mark,
- [General Synod, LLF and the mind of the church: What is the evidence?](https://www.psephizo.com/sexuality-2/general-synod-llf-and-the-mind-of-the-church-what-is-the-evidence/) - Andrew Goddard writes: Following my recent article on where we should be going on LLF I had a few brief exchanges with David Runcorn on my Facebook page. This made clear that he and I were viewing the current situation in quite different ways but, as he commented, “that needs a long conversation”. I was therefore
- [The Feeding of the Five Thousand in Matthew 14](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/the-feeding-of-the-five-thousand-in-matthew-14/) - The Sunday lectionary reading for the Trinity 9 in Year A is Matt 14.13–21. We have now moved beyond the third section of Jesus' teaching in Matthew, on the kingdom of heaven in chapter 13, and are immersed once more in Jesus' ministry and engagement with those around him, which extends to the end of
- [Israel, the end times, and the return of Jesus](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/israel-the-end-times-and-the-return-of-jesus/) - Martyn Whittock is a historian who has written two fascinating books about end times expectation through history, The End Times, Again? 2000 Years of the Use & Misuse of Biblical Prophecy and its impact on the radicalisation of politics, Apocalyptic Politics: A Taproot of Political Radicalization and Populism. In this video, he asks me all the
- [What is the meaning of Sabbath?](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/what-is-the-meaning-of-sabbath/) - I write a quarterly column for Preach magazine, in which I explore a significant word or phrase in the Bible, or a theme or section of Scripture, and the ideas that it expresses. I have written for them on: the phrase ‘Word of God’ the theme of ‘Mission’ the meaning of ‘Apocalypse‘ the ministry of ‘Healing’,
- [The kingdom as treasure, pearl, leaven, and net in Matthew 13](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/the-kingdom-as-treasure-pearl-leaven-and-net-in-matthew-13/) - Having, in previous weeks, pulled out the parables of the sower/soils and of the weeds, together with their interpretations, from the collection of 'kingdom of heaven' parables in Matthew 13, the lectionary for Trinity 7 in Year A now mops up the remaining, mostly short, parables about the kingdom to complete our reading of the
- [The kingdom as treasure, pearl, leaven, and net in Matt 13 video discussion](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/the-kingdom-as-treasure-pearl-leaven-and-net-in-matt-13-video-discussion/) - The reading for Trinity 8 in this Year A is the remaining parables of the kingdom in Matthew 13. Although very brief, they contain some startling images, and raise the key question of the relationship between God's initiative and our response. Come and join Ian and James as they discuss these intriguing texts, and the
- [Can we describe God as 'she'? Does it matter?](https://www.psephizo.com/life-ministry/can-we-describe-god-as-she/) - Following on from the broo-ha-ha about Stephen Cottrell's comments on the problems of calling God 'Father', the latest episode in the debate about God's sex and pronouns comes from Hereford Cathedral. Last Sunday, their main Communion service began with an Introit which re-writes Psalm 23 with God identified using female pronouns. The Lord is
- [The future before us: Where do we go from here on LLF?](https://www.psephizo.com/sexuality-2/the-future-before-us-where-do-we-go-from-here-on-llf/) - Andrew Goddard writes: This painful and contested situation cannot continue, for the sake of the proclamation of the Gospel in England and our own integrity and peace as a Church. These words particularly struck me in a surprisingly un-publicised but important public letter on the LLF process that was released last week. It came from
- [Good and evil in the Parable of the Weeds in Matthew 13 video discussion](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/good-and-evil-in-the-parable-of-the-weeds-in-matthew-13-video-discussion/) - The lectionary gospel reading for the Trinity 7 in Year A once more splits up a text in order to unite a parable and its interpretation by Jesus, though with less damage than was done previously. The parable itself is given in Matthew 13.24–30; we then skip over the brief parables of the mustard seed
- [Good and evil in the Parable of the Weeds in Matthew 13](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/good-and-evil-in-the-parable-of-the-weeds-in-matthew-13/) - The lectionary gospel reading for the Trinity 7 in Year A once more splits up a text in order to unite a parable and its interpretation by Jesus, though with less damage than was done previously. The parable itself is given in Matthew 13.24–30; we then skip over the brief parables of the mustard seed
- [Fractures and fractiousness at General Synod](https://www.psephizo.com/life-ministry/fractures-and-fractiousness-at-general-synod/) - The General Synod of the Church of England met at the University of York (as it does every July) last weekend. 'This was the worst Synod I have experienced in all my time attending since 2005' commented a Synod friend on Facebook. He was primarily referring to what he perceived as poor organisation, an inability
- [What does Scripture say about poverty—and our response to it?](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/want-does-scripture-say-about-poverty-and-our-response-to-it/) - I write a quarterly column for Preach magazine, in which I explore a significant word or phrase in the Bible, or a theme or section of Scripture, and the ideas that it expresses. I have written for them on: the phrase ‘Word of God’ the theme of ‘Mission’ the meaning of ‘Apocalypse‘ the ministry of ‘Healing’,
- [The parable of the sower and soils in Matthew 13 video discussion](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/the-parable-of-the-sower-and-soils-in-matthew-13-video-discussion/) - The lectionary gospel reading for Trinity 6 is the Parable of the Sower and the Soils in Matt 13, along with Jesus' explanation of it—though omitting the challenging explanation of why Jesus teaches in parables in the middle. Come and join James and Ian as they explore the passage, and its significance for discipleship, ministry,
- [The Parable of the Sower and the Soils in Matthew 13](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/the-parable-of-the-sower-and-the-soils-in-matthew-13/) - The lectionary this week (Trinity 6 in Year A) repeats a grievous error in its choice of passage that it also made last week—cutting out the central section and thus seriously altering the meaning of the reading. Last week we had a reading that excised two sections from three in the chapter: Jesus rather taunting comparison
- [The paradoxical invitation of Jesus in Matthew 11 video discussion](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/the-paradoxical-invitation-of-jesus-in-matthew-11-video-discussion/) - The gospel lectionary reading for Trinity 5 in this Year A is another odd selection of verses, Matthew 11.16–19 and 25–30. The lectionary omits the challenging words of Jesus' judgement of the cities where he has ministered—but in fact these are integral the passage, which explores the paradoxes of Jesus' ministry and response to it.
- [Should we use personal disclosure in our preaching?](https://www.psephizo.com/preaching-2/should-we-use-personal-disclosure-in-our-preaching/) - How much should I share of my personal experience in the context of preaching? This is a perennial question facing anyone in ministry in the local church—and relevant to speaking on other occasions too. My first encounter with the issue arose when I was a teenager. I remember one of the lay preachers in the
- [The future of LLF: cakeism or coherence?](https://www.psephizo.com/sexuality-2/the-future-of-llf-cakeism-or-coherence/) - Andrew Goddard writes: Twenty years ago, Archbishop Rowan began his presidential address to the July 2003 York General Synod by asking “Does the Church of England exist?”. He replied that “there are several different ‘Churches of England’” and we need “to find out what it is that makes these diverse ‘churches’ one” because “if we can’t
- [How does the Bible help us think about immigration?](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/how-does-the-bible-help-us-think-about-immigration/) - Jocelyn Downey writes: In the mid-2000s, James Hoffmeier, probably most known for his archaeological work in Sinai and his writings on the Exodus, weighed into the discussion on immigration by producing a book seeking to examine the Biblical view on the rights and responsibilities of migrants as well as, in broad terms, the duty of care
- [Prayers, Process, and Powers: B2 or not B2, that is the question—summary](https://www.psephizo.com/sexuality-2/prayers-process-and-powers-b2-or-not-b2-that-is-the-question-summary/) - Andrew Goddard writes: The proposed Prayers of Love and Faith, once finalised, will need to be given an official status and made available for use in the church by some particular legal route. The options for this (full texts available here) are laid out in Canons B2 (authorisation by General Synod), B4 (authorisation by Convocation, Archbishops,
- [The paradoxical invitation of Jesus in Matthew 11](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/the-paradoxical-invitation-of-jesus-in-matthew-11/) - The gospel lectionary reading for Trinity 5 in this Year A is another odd selection of verses, Matthew 11.16–19 and 25–30. It is yet one more occasion where we could really do with a lectionary commentary which explains the rationale for this choice. Although it might appear to be irritating, it actually illustrates a far
- [Why bishops need to throw away their mitres](https://www.psephizo.com/life-ministry/why-bishops-need-to-throw-away-their-mitres/) - This seems to be a very good time to republish this article which I last posted three years ago in 2020, for at least two reasons. The first is that last weekend was the time for many to be ordained, so my social media feed was full of pictures of people being ordained, and so
- [Interpreting the sheep and the goats in Matt 25](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/interpreting-the-sheep-and-the-goats-in-matt-25/) - Jesus' 'parable' of the sheep and the goats in Matt 25.31–46 is very well known and widely misinterpreted. It forms one part of the extended teaching about 'the end' distinctive to Matthew (compared with Mark and Luke). It is most commonly interpreted as an injunction to help the poor; most Christians (in the West at least) read
- [Why is sexuality such a big deal?](https://www.psephizo.com/sexuality-2/why-is-sexuality-such-a-big-deal/) - Why is the debate on sexuality and marriage in the Church of England (and other churches) such a big deal? Why can't we just agree to disagree—to get on together and learn to live with difference? Two groups regularly say that to me. The first is those who want change in the Church's teaching. Why
- [Prayers, Processes and Power: B2 or not B2, that is the question (Part 3: Canon B2)](https://www.psephizo.com/sexuality-2/prayers-processes-and-power-b2-or-not-b2-that-is-the-question-part-3-canon-b2/) - Andrew Goddard writes: In this third part of three articles, I consider the use of Canon B2 for the proposing of the Prayers of Love and Faith. You can find Part One here, Part Two here, and a summary of the whole argument here. The place of General Synod Under the Church of England (Worship and
- [Is the New Jerusalem a place for people—or the people themselves?](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/is-the-new-jerusalem-a-place-for-people-or-the-people-themselves/) - Come with me, if you will, on an adventure of biblical imagination in Revelation 21 and 22. The New Jerusalem that is described there by John is mostly taken to be a place in which the people of God dwell with the presence of God—but what would happen if we interpreted everything in the vision as a
- [The disciples as the presence of Jesus in Matthew 10](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/the-disciples-as-the-presence-of-jesus-in-matthew-10/) - The gospel read for Trinity 4 in Year A of Matt 10.40–42 is perhaps the strangest choice in the whole lectionary—at only three verses! And yet this short passage has some really significant features that offer enormous potential for reflection: a. They are very clearly structured as a unit, with an opening and matching conclusion,
- [The disciples as the presence of Jesus in Matt 10 video discussion](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/the-disciples-as-the-presence-of-jesus-in-matt-10-video-discussion/) - The gospel reading for Trinity 4 in Year A of Matt 10.40–42 is perhaps the strangest choice in the whole lectionary—at only three verses! And yet this short passage has some really significant features that offer enormous potential for reflection: it is tightly structured and highly memorable; it is almost without parallel in the other
- [Prayers, Process, and Powers: B2 or not B2, that is the question (Part 1)](https://www.psephizo.com/sexuality-2/prayers-process-and-powers-b2-or-not-b2-that-is-the-question-part-1/) - Andrew Goddard writes: As the Report of the House of Commons Privileges Committee makes clear, beneath the high drama of Boris Johnson’s recent resignation as an MP there lie important questions of principle about procedure and power. These can get lost in the soap opera focus on personalities but they are crucial. When there are questions
- [Prayers, Processes and Power: B2 or not B2, that is the question (Part 2: Canon B4)](https://www.psephizo.com/sexuality-2/prayers-processes-and-power-b2-or-not-b2-that-is-the-question-part-2-canon-b4/) - Andrew Goddard writes: Part One of these three articles set out the process of commending prayers for use under canon B5 and the problems with the bishops’ proposal to introduce PLF by this means. Given these problems it may be better to look for formal approval of PLF by the alternative route of authorisation. Here a
- [Staying faithful under pressure in Matthew 10](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/staying-faithful-under-pressure-in-matthew-10/) - The gospel reading for Trinity 3 in Year A is Matthew 10.24–39—we continue to work through Jesus' teaching on mission in Matthew 10, but the lectionary has jumped across from the specifics of his sending out the Twelve (last week in Matthew 9.35–10.8) to more general teaching about being faithful under pressure. It is easy
- [Staying faithful under pressure in Matthew 10 video discussion](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/staying-faithful-under-pressure-in-matthew-10-video-discussion/) - The gospel lectionary reading for Trinity 3 is Matthew 10.24-39. It comes after Jesus has called and sent out the Twelve to share in the ministry and mission that he himself has been undertaking. Matthew blends into this Jesus' teaching about the longer-term mission of his people, and he collects together related sayings of teaching
- [Why is the Christian life a constant mix of joy and woe?](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/what-is-the-christian-life-a-mix-of-joy-and-woe/) - Why does our experience of Christian life often seem so contradictory, so paradoxical? Why do we so often seem to move from experiences of triumph and wonder to experiences of doubt and failure? (I have a sense that this is a universal question, and not just a function of my getting older and more grumpy...!)
- [Does the church endorse marriage as defined by culture?](https://www.psephizo.com/sexuality-2/does-the-church-endorse-marriage-as-defined-by-culture/) - Martin Davie writes: According to a report in the Church Times, during the Religion Media Festival on Monday this week the Archbishop of Canterbury responded to a question about whether the Church of England was ‘ too apologetic about its positions on sexual morality.’ His answer was to say that he entirely agreed with the questioner’s
- [The pattern and practice of ministry in Matthew 9 to 10](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/the-pattern-and-practice-of-ministry-in-matthew-9-to-10/) - At last! After the detours in Luke-Acts and John for the series of feasts around Ascension, Pentecost, and Trinity, the lectionary finally brings us back to the Gospel according to Matthew for the First Sunday after Trinity in Year A! Whew! The reading set, Matt 9.35–10.8, is slightly odd, in that it bridges from one
- [Barnabas is key in the missionary work of the Spirit in Acts 11](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/barnabas-is-key-in-the-missionary-work-of-the-spirit-in-acts-11/) - The first Sunday after Trinity (or Pentecost 2) is also the feast of St Barnabas, who was responsible for receiving, encouraging, and working with the apostle Saul/Paul. In our lectionary reading, Acts 11.19–30, he performs a vital role in encouraging the believers in Antioch and advocating for them to the leadership of the church in
- [Barnabas is key in the missionary work of the Spirit (Acts 11) video discussion](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/barnabas-is-key-in-the-missionary-work-of-the-spirit-acts-11-video-discussion/) - The first Sunday after Trinity (or Pentecost 2) is also the feast of St Barnabas, who was responsible for receiving, encouraging, and working with the apostle Saul/Paul. In Acts 11 he performs a vital role in encouraging the believers in Antioch and advocating for them to the leadership of the church in Jerusalem. Join James
- [The Prayers of Love and Faith and the call to a holy life](https://www.psephizo.com/sexuality-2/the-prayers-of-love-and-faith-and-the-call-to-a-holy-life/) - Andrew Goddard writes: With the College and House of Bishops meeting next week and the July General Synod just over a month away it seems a good time to try to stop and take stock afresh on the turmoil of the last four months or so (my earlier attempts to do so are here and here).
- [What does the gospel say to family life today?](https://www.psephizo.com/life-ministry/what-does-the-gospel-say-to-family-life-today/) - In March 2021, the Archbishops commissioned a project to look at issues around family and households; this was the third of four Commissioners arising from Justin Welby's 2018 book Reimagining Britain (which I reviewed here), the previous ones covering housing and care respectively, alongside the ongoing commission on racial justice. Before I read the report myself, I
- [The Great Commission in Matt 28 and preaching on the Trinity](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/the-great-commission-in-matt-28-and-preaching-on-the-trinity/) - The Sunday gospel lectionary reading for Trinity Sunday in this Year A is Matt 28.16–20. As with the readings in Years B and C, it is short and compact. But many will not preach on this passage! For some reason, this is the one Sunday of the year when those preaching feel they should depart
- [The Great Commission in Matt 28 and preaching on the Trinity video discussion](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/the-great-commission-in-matt-28-and-preaching-on-the-trinity-video-discussion/) - The Sunday gospel lectionary reading for Trinity Sunday in Year A is Matthew 28.16–20, the so-called Great Commission which concludes the gospel. It has been picked for this week because it contains the triadic/Trinitarian formula 'baptising them in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit.' Apart from the fascinating details of
- [The Trinity and John 16](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/the-trinity-and-john-16/) - The Sunday gospel lectionary reading for Trinity Sunday in this Year C is John 16.12–15. It is another very short reading (four verses) from the 'farewell discourse' of Jesus, and I think is actually quite a difficult reading to preach from. Like much of this part of the Fourth Gospel, it is reflective, repeats things
- [The Spirit poured out at Pentecost in Acts 2](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/the-spirit-poured-out-at-pentecost-in-acts-2/) - This Sunday is the Feast of Pentecost, when we remember, celebrate, and re-engage with the first giving of the Spirit at Pentecost as recounted in Acts 2., and the lectionary reading in this Year CX is, as every year, Acts 2.1–21. Although it is a comparatively long reading, in one sense it is not long
- [The Church of England's financial imbalance](https://www.psephizo.com/life-ministry/the-church-of-englands-financial-imbalance/) - The Church Commissioners have published their investment result from 2022 along with their annual report for the year, and both can be found online here. The investment results are quite remarkable. Although the headline return last year was only 5.0% last year (compared with 13.3% in 2021), which means a real-terms reduction in the value
- [The Spirit poured out at Pentecost video discussion](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/the-spirit-poured-out-at-pentecost-video-discussion/) - This Sunday is the Feast of Pentecost, when we remember, celebrate, and re-engage with the first giving of the Spirit at Pentecost as recounted in Acts 2, and the lectionary reading in this Year A is, as every year, Acts 2.1–21. Although it is a comparatively long reading, in one sense it is not long
- [Jesus, the Father, and the disciples in John 17](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/jesus-the-father-and-the-disciples-in-john-17-2/) - The lectionary reading for Easter 7, the last Sunday of the Easter Season before Pentecost, is the first part ‘great prayer’ of Jesus in John 17.1–11. The lectionary divides the chapter into three parts over Years A, B and C, which either assumes that preachers and people have a good memory from year to year,
- [Why is the Ascension the most important moment in the New Testament?](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/why-is-the-ascension-the-most-important-moment-in-the-new-testament/) - What would you identify as the climax and completion of Jesus' life and ministry? Surprisingly, this is not a trivial question. One of the key differences between John and the synoptic gospels is that, where the synoptics portray the crucifixion as a necessary but incomplete act on the way to the resurrection, John portrays it
- [Jesus, the Father, and the disciples in John 17 video discussion](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/jesus-the-father-and-the-disciples-in-john-17/) - The lectionary reading for Easter 7, the last Sunday of the Easter Season before Pentecost, is the first part ‘great prayer’ of Jesus in John 17.1–11. The lectionary divides the chapter into three parts over Years A, B and C, which either assumes that preachers and people have a good memory from year to year,
- [Archbishops, politics, and migration policy](https://www.psephizo.com/life-ministry/archbishops-politics-and-migration-policy/) - I was invited yesterday to take part in a discussion this morning on ITV's Good Morning Britain—but they wanted someone in the studio rather than on Zoom. The question to discuss was: does the Christian faith say something about politics, and should church leaders 'interfere' in politics. Introducing the item (at 7.20 am), the presenter
- [Living in Love and Faith: Good Episcopal Differentiation?](https://www.psephizo.com/sexuality-2/living-in-love-and-faith-good-episcopal-differentiation/) - Andrew Goddard writes: in the first of three articles, I highlighted the challenges that now face the post-LLF process in ‘squaring the circle’ of different commitments made in our understanding of blessing, the nature of marriage, and our agreed sexual ethic. In the second one, I explored the question of our disagreements and what might be
- [Love, Obedience, and the Spirit as 'another Helper' in John 14 video discussion](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/love-obedience-and-the-spirit-as-another-helper-in-john-14/) - The lectionary gospel reading for Easter 6 in Year A (this Sunday) is the next section of John 14.15–21. The passage begins and ends with the integration of love and obedience—but then focuses on the role of the Spirit as 'another Helper' (Paraclete). What does this mean, and why is it significant in this context?
- [Love, Obedience, and the Spirit as 'another Helper' in John 14](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/love-obedience-and-the-spirit-as-another-helper-in-john-14-2/) - The lectionary gospel reading for Easter 6 in Year A is the next section of John 14.15–21. The split of the passage for the two Sundays is a little odd, in that last week's was twice the length, and contained three massive issues to address! This week's is much shorter and more straightforward. The text
- ['I go to prepare a place' and 'greater works' in John 14: video discussion](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/i-go-to-prepare-a-place-and-greater-works-in-john-14-video-discussion/) - The reading for Easter 5 in Year A is John 14.1–14, and it includes two really challenging texts. James and Ian explore why Jesus' promise that he 'goes to prepare a place for us' is not about life after death, and try to make sense of the prediction that Jesus' followers will 'do greater works'
- [What can the letter of Jude teach us today?](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/what-can-the-letter-of-jude-teach-us-today/) - I write Bible reading notes for several organisations, and at the moment am writing for BRF's Guidelines series. I recently wrote these notes on the Letter of Jude, which is a much neglected short letter, and offer them here for wider use. I have added in some questions for group discussion. Introduction The letter of
- [How can we grow disciples through small group study?](https://www.psephizo.com/life-ministry/how-can-we-grow-disciples-through-small-group-study/) - Dr David Ball leads the GOLD Project, which offers small-group-based learning about scripture, theology and discipleship. I met with David and was able to ask him about this fascinating project. IP: What is the GOLD Project? How did it get its name? DB: We are a small Christian Charity dedicated to providing courses and other
- [‘I go to prepare a place’ and ‘greater works’ in John 14](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/i-go-to-prepare-a-place-and-greater-works-in-john-14/) - The Sunday lectionary gospel reading for Easter 5 in Year A is John 14.1–14. When I read this text, I cannot help but feel it has a slightly strange, dream-like quality to it, and I think that is for several reasons. The whole discourse (which begins at John 13.31 and continues to the end of
- [Facing our Disagreements on Living in Love and Faith](https://www.psephizo.com/sexuality-2/facing-our-disagreements-on-living-in-love-and-faith/) - Andrew Goddard writes: in the first of three articles, I highlighted the challenges that now face the post-LLF process in 'squaring the circle' of different commitments made in our understanding of blessing, the nature of marriage, and our agreed sexual ethic. In this second one, I explore the question of our disagreements and what might
- [How is disagreement resolved in the Acts 15 Council?](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/how-is-disagreement-resolved-in-the-acts-15-council/) - The account of the Council of Jerusalem in Acts 15 has been drawn on in a range of situations where Christians have argued for a radical change in our understanding of the church and salvation. It comes up frequently in the current debate on sexuality, but was cited by Dick France, late Principal of Wycliffe
- [Jesus is the good shepherd in John 10: video discussion](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/jesus-is-the-good-shepherd-in-john-10-video-discussion/) - The Sunday gospel lectionary reading for Easter 4 is Jesus' teaching about himself as the Good Shepherd in John 10.1–10. It is actually part of the continued debate with the Pharisees after the healing of the man born blind in John 9, and takes place in Jerusalem. Join James and Ian as they discuss the
- [Jesus is the good shepherd in John 10](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/jesus-is-the-good-shepherd-in-john-10/) - The lectionary gospel readers for the Fourth Sunday of Easter take the three parts of John 10 in turn; being in Year A, we are reading the first ten verses. But this is a good example of where our modern chapter divisions (first created by Stephen Langton, the 13th-century Archbishop of Canterbury who helped to
- [Can we find the essence of St Paul's writing and theology?](https://www.psephizo.com/reviews/can-we-find-the-essence-of-st-pauls-writing-and-theology/) - Dr Gary Burnett has published a short study on the writing and theology of Paul under the title Paul Distilled. I had the chance to ask him about his book—why he wrote it, what approach he takes, and why it could be of help to us. IP: How did this book arise, organised in a series
- [Did Jesus laugh? Was he funny?](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/did-jesus-laugh-was-he-funny/) - For some time, I have been intrigued by the question of whether Jesus was funny. In his teaching, did he tell what we might call jokes, and did his listeners find themselves laughing when they listened to him? There are many prima facie reasons why we might suppose Jesus was funny. If Jesus was fully human—indeed,
- [Can we square the Living in Love and Faith circle?](https://www.psephizo.com/sexuality-2/can-we-square-the-living-in-love-and-faith-circle/) - Andrew Goddard writes: In his recent critical profile of Archbishop Justin Welby, Giles Fraser recalls interviewing him in 2012 when he wrote of the then Bishop of Durham whose name was becoming prominent as a likely successor to Rowan Williams, On the subject of women bishops he speaks of the need to square the circle, reconciling
- [What does 'doubting' Thomas teach us from John 20?](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/what-does-doubting-thomas-teach-us-from-john-20/) - The Sunday gospel lectionary reading for the Second Sunday in Easter is John 20.19–31, which includes Jesus' encounter with so-called 'doubting Thomas'. It is the set reading for this week in all three years of the lectionary, so we know it well—and need to reflect on it if we are going to preach effectively on
- [Christian teaching on marriage, sex and identity: harmful or protective? ](https://www.psephizo.com/sexuality-2/christian-teaching-on-marriage-sex-and-identity-harmful-or-protective/) - Julie Maxwell writes: It is now a couple of months since the Church of England General Synod meeting where we discussed the Bishop’s proposals following the lengthy Living in Love and Faith process, and it is clear to me that there are two broad views. The first is that God’s design for marriage and sex is
- [The meeting with Jesus on the road to Emmaus in Luke 24](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/the-meeting-with-jesus-on-the-road-to-emmaus-in-luke-24/) - The lectionary readings for the Third Sunday in Easter ignore the particular gospel for the year, and instead cycle round Luke 24 and John 21: in Year B we have the second half of Luke 24, Jesus meeting the group of frightened disciples; in Year C, the miraculous catch of fish in John 21; and
- [The meeting with Jesus on the road to Emmaus in Luke 24 video discussion](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/the-meeting-with-jesus-on-the-road-to-emmaus-in-luke-24-video-discussion/) - The gospel reading in this Year A for the Third Sunday of Easter Luke 24.13–35, the story of two disciples meeting the risen Jesus on the road to Emmaus. It is a favourite story for many, a long narrative full of fascinating detail which connects with Luke's opening stories in the gospel at many points.
- [How can the whole church engage with the story of Easter?](https://www.psephizo.com/life-ministry/how-can-the-whole-church-engage-with-the-story-of-easter/) - Stephen Kuhrt writes: For a number of years, I have written a Children’s Carol Service for use the Sunday before Christmas at Christ Church, New Malden. Both children and adults come in biblical costumes. The aim has been to combine something of the fun of Christmas Panto with conveying biblical theology that draws out the significance
- [Are the gospel accounts of Holy Week contradictory?](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/are-the-gospel-accounts-of-holy-week-contradictory/) - Have you ever sat and read through the gospel accounts of Passion Week, and tried to work out chronologically what is happening? And have you done that with the four gospels? (It is easiest to do that latter using a synopsis, either in print or using this one online.) Why not do it as part of
- [What does ‘doubting Thomas’ teach us in John 20? video discussion](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/what-does-doubting-thomas-teach-us-in-john-20-video-discussion/) - The Sunday gospel lectionary reading for the Second Sunday in Easter is John 20.19–31, which includes Jesus’ encounter with so-called ‘doubting Thomas’. It is the set reading for this week in all three years of the lectionary, so we know it well—and need to reflect on it if we are going to preach effectively on
- [Meeting the risen Jesus by the empty tomb in John 20](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/meeting-the-risen-jesus-by-the-empty-tomb-in-john-20/) - The discovery by two disciples of the empty tomb, and Mary Magdelene's encounter with Jesus, in John 20.1–18, is one of the main options for the gospel reading for Easter Sunday in Year C (the alternative is Luke 24.1–12). And it is, in many ways, the most appealing choice, because of its polished literary form,
- [What is the ideal size for a church?](https://www.psephizo.com/life-ministry/what-is-the-ideal-size-for-a-church/) - One of the fringe meetings at a previous session of the General Synod a couple of years ago focussed on the needs of 'mid-sized churches', in this case defined as worshipping communities of 20 to 60. The reason for this was a question that William Nye, Secretary General of Synod and the Archbishops' Council, had
- [Jesus' 'triumphal' entry on Palm Sunday in Matthew 21](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/jesus-triumphal-entry-on-palm-sunday-in-matthew-21/) - It is always a relief when we celebrate Palm Sunday from Matthew (as we do in this Year A in the lectionary) or Mark's account (next year). Luke 19.36 in his account talks only about the garments, and does not mention palm branches, so in those years we have to call it Garment Sunday (which
- [Jesus' 'triumphal' entry on Palm Sunday in Matthew 21 video discussion](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/jesus-triumphal-entry-on-palm-sunday-in-matthew-21-video-discussion/) - The gospel lectionary reading for Palm Sunday in Year A is Matthew 21.1–11. It offers a distinct change of pace from the passages from the Fourth Gospel we have been exploring in the past few weeks. How do Matthew's distinct emphases help us understand this story? John James and Ian as they explore the text
- [Was Mary (and therefore Jesus) a slave?](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/was-mary-and-therefore-jesus-a-slave/) - Major David Cavanagh of the The Salvation Army offers this response to Mitzi J. Smith’s reading of doule in Luke 1:38. “Was the Virgin Mary actually a slave?” That is the question raised by Mitzi J. Smith, J. Davison Philips Professor of New Testament at Columbia Theological Seminary, and Professor of Gender Studies at the
- [Jesus raises Lazarus in John 11](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/jesus-raises-lazarus-in-john-11/) - In the Sunday gospel lectionary reading for Lent 5 in Year A, we come to the last of our for explorations of Jesus' encounters with individuals that formed a catechumate in the early church in her raising of Lazarus in John 11.1–45. Next week, on Palm Sunday, we will return to our gospel of the year,
- [How can we develop resilient faith?](https://www.psephizo.com/life-ministry/how-can-we-develop-resilient-faith/) - From 15th to 19th May I am speaking at Lee Abbey in Devon on 'Resilient Faith: coping with doubts, difficulties and disappointments'. You can find full details and book here. We are sometimes given the impression that a Christian faith will protect us from all the doubts and difficulties in the world. So when challenges
- [Was European colonialism a good thing or a bad thing?](https://www.psephizo.com/life-ministry/was-european-colonialism-a-good-thing-or-a-bad-thing/) - Following his very helpful review of Nigel Biggar's Colonialism: a moral reckoning, John Root offers reflection on five paradoxes of European colonialism and its legacy. In April 1964 I attended a selection conference for ordination in the Church of England. One of the selectors was a thoughtful, late middle-aged high churchman, who prior to his ordination
- [The bishops and LLF: integrity, division, or power-play?](https://www.psephizo.com/sexuality-2/the-bishops-and-llf-integrity-division-or-power-play/) - Andrew Goddard writes: Shortly before General Synod, in the light of what I had earlier written at the start of the discernment process concerning what was needed from the bishops and possible ways forward, I argued for a pause rather than a rush to judgment in the form of a vote. This did not happen
- [Jesus heals the man born blind in John 9](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/jesus-heals-the-man-born-blind-in-john-9/) - The Sunday gospel lectionary reading for Lent 4 in this Year A continues with the third of our four encounters between Jesus and individuals in the Fourth Gospel: Lent 2: Jesus and Nicodemus (John 3.1–17) Lent 3: The woman of Samaria (John 4.5–42) Lent 4: The man born blind (John 9.1-41) Lent 5: The raising
- [Jesus heals the man born blind in John 9 video discussion](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/jesus-heals-the-man-born-blind-in-john-9-video-discussion/) - The Sunday gospel lectionary reading for Lent 4 in Year A is John 9.1–41. It is the third of four stories of Jesus' encounters with individuals in the Fourth Gospel, as a series exploring discipleship and taking a break from Matthew, to which we return on Palm Sunday. James and Ian explores the issues in
- [Jesus meets the woman of Samaria by a well in John 4](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/jesus-meets-the-woman-of-samaria-by-a-well-in-john-4/) - The gospel lectionary reading for Lent 3 is John 4.5-42, probably the longest reading in the lectionary! It is strange contrast with readings a few weeks ago from the Fourth Gospel which were only a few verses. We are continuing with our progress through the catechetical pattern of the readings in Lent, looking at encounters
- [Five good reasons for not giving](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/five-good-reasons-for-not-giving/) - Many people in churches are reticent to talk about the question of money and giving. The Church of England has long had a goal of asking people to give 5% of their net income to the church—and has long failed to achieve this. Some denominations and theological traditions are much better at giving, and include
- [Pandemic Pandemonium And The Purple Powers](https://www.psephizo.com/life-ministry/pandemic-pandemonium-and-the-purple-powers/) - 'Sioux Grey Wolf' writes: The UK Government is conducting a review of how it handled the Covid-19 pandemic. We already know some of the successes (chiefly the roll-out of the vaccine) and some of the scandals (PPE deals, parties). More will be revealed. But how did the Church of England respond the biggest crisis since the
- [Jesus meets the woman of Samaria by a well in John 4 video discussion](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/jesus-meets-the-woman-of-samaria-by-a-well-in-john-4-video-discussion/) - The gospel lectionary reading for Lent 3 is John 4.5-42, probably the longest reading in the lectionary! The story is well-known—but common interpretations of the story are worth examining carefully. The woman is in some sense an ambiguous figure, but perhaps not in the ways we might expect. Join James and Ian and they explore
- [Nicodemus encounters Jesus in John 3 video discussion](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/nicodemus-encounters-jesus-in-john-3-video-discussion/) - The Sunday lectionary gospel reading for Lent 2 in Year A is Nicodemus' meeting with Jesus in John 3.1–17. Although we are supposed to be reading from Matthew’s gospel, and the RCL used ecumenically has continued to do so, the lectionary in Common Worship offers us a sequence of four encounters between Jesus and individuals
- [Nicodemus encounters Jesus in John 3](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/nicodemus-encounters-jesus-in-john-3/) - The Sunday lectionary gospel reading for Lent 2 in Year A is Nicodemus' meeting with Jesus in John 3.1–17. Although we are supposed to be reading from Matthew’s gospel, and the RCL used ecumenically has continued to do so, the lectionary in Common Worship offers us a sequence of four encounters between Jesus and individuals
- [Can we give colonialism a moral reckoning?](https://www.psephizo.com/reviews/can-we-give-colonialism-a-moral-reckoning/) - John Root writes: In the mid 1930s my wife’s parents migrated from Kerala in South India to Malaya. My father-in-law got a job as a civil servant. When war threatened in the Far East my mother-in-law returned to Kerala with her two infant sons. The speed of the Japanese advance prevented my father-in-law from following
- [How to create your own personal Jesus](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/how-to-create-your-own-personal-jesus/) - I first wrote this three years ago—but it seems as important as ever in the light of current debates. A while ago, someone posted this graphic on my timeline, and my impression is that, far from being something merely humorous, this list is taken by many as a serious description of Jesus' ministry and a
- [The testing of Jesus according to Matthew 4](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/the-testing-of-jesus-according-to-matthew-4/) - As we enter the season of Lent on Sunday, the lectionary for the First Sunday in Lent in Year A is of course Matt 4.1–11. It is worth noting that the lectionary and seasonal arrangement of the 40 days (46 calendar days minus the feast days of Sundays that exempt us from lenten discipline) corresponding
- [What can an Irreverend podcast contribute to the gospel?](https://www.psephizo.com/life-ministry/what-can-an-irreverend-podcast-contribute-to-the-gospel/) - Podcasting has grown into a Big Thing over the last few years, particularly though not exclusively amongst younger people. My children are constantly recommending podcasts to me—though to little avail, since I have enough to listen to on the radio! Daniel French is the vicar of Salcombe, Malborough and South Huish, Devon, and is a regular
- [The testing of Jesus in Matthew 4 video discussion](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/the-testing-of-jesus-in-matthew-4-video-discussion/) - As we enter the season of Lent on Sunday, the lectionary for the First Sunday in Lent, Year A, is of course Matt 4.1–11. It is worth noting that the lectionary and seasonal arrangement of the 40 days (46 calendar days minus the feast days of Sundays that exempt us from lenten discipline) corresponding to
- [Grieving the Anglican Communion: English Primacy and the Anglican Consultative Council](https://www.psephizo.com/life-ministry/grieving-the-anglican-communion-english-primacy-and-the-anglican-consultative-council/) - Andrew Atherstone writes: After the high drama of the Church of England’s General Synod, we had one day to wash and repack before flying to Ghana for the eighteenth plenary meeting of the Anglican Consultative Council (ACC-18), hosted by the Province of West Africa. It was like being evacuated from the battlefield to a temporary sanctuary,
- [Did Paul prohibit all forms of same-sex sexual relations?](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/did-paul-prohibit-all-forms-of-same-sex-sexual-relations/) - David Instone-Brewer has written an article in this month's Premier Christianity magazine, arguing that, because Paul cites Leviticus 20.18 in his neologism in 1 Cor 6.9, and Lev 20.18 uses an unusual word, Paul was only rejecting certain forms of same-sex sexual relationship. His argument is quite technical, but you can read it here. I
- [Is Jesus 'transfigured' in Matthew 17? video discussion](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/is-jesus-transfigured-in-matthew-17-video-discussion/) - The lectionary gospel reading for the last Sunday before Lent in Year A, is Matt 17.1–9, Matthew's account of the Transfiguration. There some important things to note in relation to this passage as we think about preaching on it or hearing it preached. All three Synoptic accounts place this immediately after Peter's confession of Jesus
- [Is Jesus 'transfigured' in Matthew 17?](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/is-jesus-transfigured-in-matthew-17/) - The lectionary gospel reading for the last Sunday before Lent in Year A, is Matt 17.1–9, Matthew's account of the Transfiguration. There some important things to note in relation to this passage as we think about preaching on it or hearing it preached. All three Synoptic accounts place this immediately after Peter's confession of Jesus
- [Can we really trust God to provide for us in Matthew 6?](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/can-we-really-trust-god-to-provide-for-us-in-matthew-6/) - The Sunday lectionary gospel reading for the Second Sunday before Lent in Year A, is Matthew 6.25–34, a section of the so-called Sermon on the Mount. It appears to argue that the followers of Jesus should live a carefree life as they seek the kingdom of God, not being concerned with future provision, but living
- [What exactly happened at Synod on the Prayers for Love and Faith?](https://www.psephizo.com/sexuality-2/what-exactly-happened-at-synod-on-the-prayers-for-love-and-faith/) - In reflecting about anything in the Church of England, and especially in relation to General Synod, it is worth bearing in mind this mantra from the Troubles in Northern Ireland: If you are not confused, you don't really know what is going on. The newspapers seemed to be very clear what had happened: The Church
- [What are the bishops claiming about marriage?](https://www.psephizo.com/sexuality-2/what-are-the-bishops-claiming-about-marriage/) - Summary: By setting out what the bishops (and their legal advisors) are now claiming about marriage in our society, this article argues that there are significant changes in their account which have not been clearly explained or defended. It traces how the church has viewed marriage in society generally through history and summarises how the
- [Can we really trust God to provide for us in Matthew 6? video discussion](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/can-we-really-trust-god-to-provide-for-us-in-matthew-6-video-discussion/) - The Sunday lectionary gospel reading for the Second Sunday before Lent in Year A, is Matthew 6.25–34, a section of the so-called Sermon on the Mount. It appears to argue that the followers of Jesus should live a carefree life as they seek the kingdom of God, not being concerned with future provision, but living
- [How should we read the psalms of conflict?](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/how-should-we-read-the-psalms-of-conflict/) - I write a quarterly column for Preach magazine, in which I explore a significant word or phrase in the Bible, or a theme or section of Scripture, and the ideas that it expresses. I have written for them on: the phrase ‘Word of God’ the theme of ‘Mission’ the meaning of ‘Apocalypse‘ the ministry of ‘Healing’,
- [Being the distinctive people of God in Matthew 5 video discussion](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/being-the-distinctive-people-of-god-in-matthew-5-video-discussion/) - The Sunday lectionary reading for the Third Sunday before Lent in Year A, is Matt 5.13–20, a short section of the so-called Sermon on the Mount following on from the Beatitudes. In some ways, this collection of sayings is well known, with some of it passing into common parlance (‘salt of the earth’)—and yet the
- [Being distinctive as the people of God in Matthew 5](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/being-distinctive-as-the-people-of-god-in-matthew-5/) - The Sunday gospel lectionary reading for the Third Sunday before Lent in Year A is Matt 5.13–20, a short section of the so-called Sermon on the Mount following on from the Beatitudes. In some ways, this collection of sayings is well known, with some of it passing into common parlance (‘salt of the earth’)—and yet
- [Last rites for 'Living in Love and Faith'?](https://www.psephizo.com/sexuality-2/last-rites-for-living-in-love-and-faith/) - Andrew Goddard writes: It is only two weeks since a leak from the House of Bishops concerning their proposals following the discernment period of the LLF process prompted instant and vehement reactions that spread further when it was followed the next day by a press release giving more details officially. It was not until Friday
- [How should we read the violent texts of the Old Testament?](https://www.psephizo.com/reviews/how-should-we-read-the-violent-texts-of-the-old-testament/) - The violent texts in the Old Testament create challenges for all readers of these texts, whether Jewish, Christian, or unbelieving. Charlie Trimm, who is an Associate Professor of Old Testament at Biola University, has written a very helpful short book on the different ways we might engage with the texts, The Destruction of the Canaanites:
- [Tyndale NT Study group 2023: the Holy Spirit in the NT](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/tyndale-nt-study-group-2023-the-holy-spirit-in-the-nt/) - The theme for the Tyndale New Testament Study group this year is The Holy Spirit in the New Testament, and we are meeting from Wednesday 5th ­to Friday 7th July 2023 at High Leigh Conference Centre. As in 2022, we will be meeting simultaneously with the other study groups. We are hopeful that we will
- [Good disagreement? This isn’t it](https://www.psephizo.com/sexuality-2/good-disagreement-this-isnt-it/) - Christopher Landau writes: It is a deep, sad irony. The Archbishop of Canterbury is an accomplished peacemaker, with reconciliation as a key priority in his ministry, and yet he is now presiding over some of the deepest disquiet and disunity seen in the church in two decades. Across the theological spectrum, the bishops’ pastoral letter
- [What is the wedding at Cana in John 2 all about?](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/what-is-the-wedding-at-cana-in-john-2-all-about/) - The Sunday lectionary gospel in Year A for Epiphany 4 (which is also the reading in Year C for Epiphany 3) is John 2.1–11, the 'sign' of Jesus turning water into wine at the wedding in Cana. (In the Church of England version of the lectionary, it was also the reading in Years B and C
- [What are the bishops saying and doing in response to the end of LLF?](https://www.psephizo.com/sexuality-2/what-are-the-bishops-saying-and-doing-in-response-to-the-end-of-llf/) - Well, the time has come. The long-awaited (and much leaked) statement from the House of Bishops after the exhausting process of Living in Love and Faith has at least been made public. Before diving into the details, it is worth noting the questions that most people have as they read. Will there be any proposal to
- [A Tale of Two Privileges: or, the Existential Choice for the Church of England](https://www.psephizo.com/life-ministry/a-tale-of-two-privileges-or-the-existential-choice-for-the-church-of-england/) - Joshua Penduck writes: Best of times and worst of times, eh? With such a Dickensian title, this article needs to make an obligatory (read: clichéd) reference to Charles’ great novel. The worst of times are obvious: a Church of England with a declining and aging faithful; a looming financial crisis for many a diocese; and
- [Can we preach the gospel at funerals?](https://www.psephizo.com/life-ministry/can-we-preach-the-gospel-at-funerals/) - Mark Broadway writes: Very few people in pastoral ministry will not find themselves being involved in funeral ministry, but I have learned that a number of clergy either do not preach at funerals at all, or offer a very short and generic message with the same content in every funeral. In his book, There is Hope:
- [The calling of the first disciples in Matthew 4](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/the-calling-of-the-first-disciples-in-matthew-4/) - This Sunday's lectionary reading for Year A, Epiphany 3, is Matt 4.12–23. It begins the account of Jesus' ministry in Galilee, which continues until Matt 16.20 (compare 'from that time on' in Matt 4.17 with Matt 16.21), and now Jesus takes centre stage as the main actor in the drama. But from the beginning, he
- [The beginning of the gospel community in Matt 4 video discussion](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/the-beginning-of-the-gospel-community-in-matt-4-video-discussion/) - This Sunday’s lectionary reading for Year A, Epiphany 3, is Matt 4.12–23. It begins the account of Jesus’ ministry in Galilee, which continues until Matt 16.20 (compare ‘from that time on’ in Matt 4.17 with Matt 16.21), and now Jesus takes centre stage as the main actor in the drama. But from the beginning, he
- [An open letter to John Inge, bishop of Worcester, on sexuality and marriage](https://www.psephizo.com/sexuality-2/an-open-letter-to-john-inge-bishop-of-worcester-on-sexuality-and-marriage/) - Dear John Thank you for your open letter explaining the reasons for your change of mind on the status of monogamous, faithful same-sex relationships. I believe that you changed your view some time ago, but this is the first time that you have set out all your reasons. This must surely be a good thing
- [What questions do people have about the Book of Revelation?](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/what-questions-do-people-have-about-the-book-of-revelation/) - I recently recorded a 'fireside chat' on the Book of Revelation for a conference of the Christian Residential Network. Keith Hagon asked me a number of questions, including the ones below. For fuller exploration, see my Grove booklet and my IVP Tyndale commentary. (On some of these questions, see also the articles on this blog
- [John the Baptist points us to Jesus in John 1](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/john-the-baptist-points-us-to-jesus-in-john-1/) - One of my favourite films at the moment is Arrival. It begins with a prologue which appears to be quite distinct from the rest of the narrative, but it is only once you have seen the whole film that you understand what the prologue was actually telling you. The phrases, ideas and narrative in the
- [John the Baptist points us to Jesus John 1 video discussion](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/john-the-baptist-points-us-to-jesus-john-1/) - The gospel reading for Epiphany 2 in Year A is John 1.29–42. In it, John the Baptist testifies to Jesus, but the account both assumes that we know the story already, yet also functions as part of the prologue to the gospel, introducing many of the key themes. James and Ian reflect on these issues,
- [The OT background to Jesus' baptism in Matt 3 video discussion](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/the-ot-background-to-jesus-baptism-in-matt-3-video-discussion/) - In many films, writers and directors often include 'Easter eggs'—allusions to earlier films which help to shape the plot and give depth and interest to the film. In a similar way, Matthew's quite brief account of Jesus' baptism by John (the gospel reading for Epiphany 1 in Year A) includes a large number of allusions
- [The OT background to the baptism of Jesus in Matthew 3](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/the-ot-background-to-the-baptism-of-jesus-in-matthew-3/) - If you hear filmgoers talking about 'Easter eggs', they are referring neither to chocolate nor the Christian festival. In films, Easter eggs are images, ideas or information that are 'hidden in plain sight' and make reference back to earlier films. They can just be a form of entertaining in-joke for series fans—but they can often
- [Is the Epiphany myth or reality?](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/is-the-epiphany-myth-or-reality/) - The Feast of the Epiphany in the church's liturgical calendar is based on the events of Matt 2.1–12, the visit of the 'wise men' from the East to the infant Jesus. There are plenty of things about the story which might make us instinctively treat it as just another part of the constellation of Christmas traditions,
- [Is awe the defining human passion?](https://www.psephizo.com/reviews/is-awe-the-defining-human-passion/) - Marc Lloyd writes: If the chief end of human beings is to 'glorify God and enjoy him for ever' (from the Westminster Shorter Catechism), it should come as no surprise if modern science finds us to be hard-wired for awe. This is indeed the claim in Awe: The Transformative Power of Everyday Wonder by Dacher Keltner (Allen Lane/Penguin,
- [What do we learn from the turn of the year?](https://www.psephizo.com/life-ministry/what-do-we-learn-from-the-turn-of-the-year/) - Like millions of others, I stayed up on Saturday night to 'see in' the New Year, which for us included watching on TV £1.5m going up in smoke (with some spectacular lights) on the River Thames, and the obligatory replay of the last ten minutes of 'When Harry met Sally'. In some ways, seeing in
- [How can we overcome class divisions in the church?](https://www.psephizo.com/reviews/how-can-we-overcome-class-divisions-in-the-church/) - There is much talk at the moment about the Church of England and inclusion. Yet the largest social and ethnic group that are under-represented in the Church are white working class, and the failure to engage with working class culture has long been the bane of the C of E. Natalie Williams and Paul Brown
- [Where is the dragon in the nativity?](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/where-is-the-dragon-in-the-nativity/) - There’s a scene in the film Love Actually where a little girl announces that she’ll be playing “first lobster” in the school nativity play. “There was more than one lobster present at the birth of Jesus?” asks her surprised mum, which leads the girl to sigh in exasperation at such profound levels of parental ignorance.
- [Challenging Christmas myths in mission and ministry](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/challenging-christmas-myths-in-mission-and-ministry/) - On this site, I have for several years been challenging various popular myths about Christmas—that Jesus was born in a stable, that he was born into a distinctively materially poor family, that the shepherds were despised outcasts, that swaddling had symbolic significance, and that Joseph and Mary were isolated and alone at Jesus' birth. Is
- [Challenging Christmas myths on shepherds, swaddling, and support for the holy family](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/challenging-christmas-myths-on-shepherds-swaddling-and-support-for-the-holy-family/) - Christmas is a time for celebration, for feasting and for relationships. But it is also a time for a mild engagement in iconoclasm, as we peel back the layers of accreted tradition and recover the origins of the Christmas gospel—something which needs to happen every year, it seems. In that spirit (and Spirit) I offer
- [What does Joseph contribute to the story of Jesus’ origins in Matthew 1?](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/what-does-joseph-contribute-to-the-story-of-jesus-origins-in-matthew-1/) - This Sunday's lectionary reading for Advent 4 in Year A is Matt 1.18–25. It is a short reading, but laden with significance as Matthew gives his distinctive account of Jesus' origins. One of the presenting issues in engaging in the two narratives of Jesus' birth in Luke and Matthew is their very distinctive perspectives, leading
- [Was Jesus really born into a 'poor' family?](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/was-jesus-really-born-into-a-poor-family/) - This is the time of year when various Christmas tropes come around again—and therefore it is worth repeated articles from previous years. I previously published this one in 2020 and 2021. One of the repeated themes of short Christmas expositions is that, in the nativity story, we see God coming to the 'poor', and as
- [What does Joseph contribute to the story of Jesus’ origins in Matthew 1? video discussion](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/what-does-joseph-contribute-to-the-story-of-jesus-origins-in-matthew-1-video-discussion/) - This Sunday's lectionary reading for Advent 4 in Year A is Matt 1.18–25. It is a short reading, but laden with significance as Matthew gives his distinctive account of Jesus' origins. James and Ian discuss the reading, its place at the beginning of the first gospel, and issues around reading it and preaching from it.
- [Is the Jubilee in the Book of Revelation?](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/is-the-jubilee-in-the-book-of-revelation/) - One of the challenges in reading the Book of Revelation is that it is very theologically dense in the way it presents its ideas. There are several reasons for this: Its dense metaphorical language (commonly called its 'symbolism') carries theological weight. For example, the compressed phrase 'a lamb, looking as though it had been slain,
- [Does Jesus fail to meet expectations in Matthew 11?](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/does-jesus-fail-to-meet-expectations-in-matthew-11/) - The lectionary gospel reading for Advent 3 in Year A is Matt 11.2–11, and as usual is rather truncated, so you might want to extend the reading by a verse or two before and after to be fair to its setting. The chapter begins with the second of Matthew's five summary statements that conclude the
- [Does Jesus fail to meet expectations in Matthew 11? video discussion](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/does-jesus-fail-to-meet-expectations-in-matthew-11-video-discussion/) - The lectionary gospel reading for Advent 3 in Year A is Matt 11.2–11, and as usual is rather truncated, so you might want to extend the reading by a verse or two before and after to be fair to its setting. John the Baptist appears to either question or express disappointment in the ministry of
- [Is Britain no longer a 'Christian' country?](https://www.psephizo.com/life-ministry/is-britain-no-longer-a-christian-country/) - There were a lot of headlines this week in response to the latest ONS census of Religion in England and Wales, a voluntary survey conducted every ten years. The major two findings were: For the first time in a census of England and Wales, less than half of the population (46.2%, 27.5 million people) described
- [Can all ages have confidence in the Christmas Story?](https://www.psephizo.com/life-ministry/can-all-ages-have-confidence-in-the-christmas-story/) - Stephen Kuhrt writes: Each year, I write a Children’s Carol Service for Christ Church, New Malden in which we try to combine the fun of Christmas with thinking hard about the Christmas stories and their meaning. The church is always full of loads of children and adults in Christmas costumes and much of it has
- [Your seasonal reminder: Jesus was not born in a stable!](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/your-seasonal-reminder-jesus-was-not-born-in-a-stable/) - What do you find most irritating about this time of year? The drawing in of dark and cold nights? The hideous adoption of that consumerist import 'Black Friday'? People putting up Christmas trees when we have only just started Advent? Being urged to spend more money by means of schmaltzy human interest mini-dramas? For me,
- [Can we make 'simple pastoral provision' for same-sex relationships?](https://www.psephizo.com/sexuality-2/can-we-make-simple-pastoral-provision-for-same-sex-relationships/) - Andrew Goddard writes: In his diocesan synod presidential address the Bishop of Southwark joined the still quite small group of bishops (from the dioceses of Oxford, Worcester and Portsmouth) who have stated their hopes for the corporate Living in Love and Faith discernment process in which the bishops are currently engaged. Like all the previous
- [Should you want to be ‘left behind’ in Matthew 24? video discussion](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/should-you-want-to-be-left-behind-in-matthew-24-video-discussion/) - With the advent of Advent on Sunday, we make the move in the lectionary from Year C to Year A. So, after journeying through Luke all year, this Sunday’s gospel reading comes from Matthew, Matt 24.36-44. This short section of text contains some important ideas and images, but we cannot make sense of them without
- [Should you want to be 'left behind' in Matthew 24?](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/should-you-want-to-be-left-behind-in-matthew-24/) - With the advent of Advent on Sunday, we make the move in the lectionary from Year C to Year A. So, after journeying through Luke all year, this Sunday's gospel reading comes from Matthew, Matt 24.36-44. This short section of text contains some important ideas and images, but we cannot make sense of them without
- [What theological issues are at stake in our doctrine of marriage?](https://www.psephizo.com/sexuality-2/what-theological-issues-are-at-stake-in-our-doctrine-of-marriage/) - Joshua Penduck writes this open letter to Steven Croft in response to his argument for change in the Church's doctrine of marriage. Dear Steven, It’s always difficult to put one’s head above the parapet when confronting the controversial issues of one’s time. It takes courage to do so – and for that I admire you
- [How should we understand Christ as King in Luke 23?](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/how-should-we-understand-christ-as-king-in-luke-23/) - This Sunday was traditionally known in the Church of England as 'Stir-up Sunday', a phrase derived from the BCP Collect for the last Sunday before Advent, which in turn inspired the making of Christmas pudding (which needs plenty of stirring): Stir up, we beseech thee, O Lord, the wills of thy faithful people; that they,
- [How should we understand Christ as King in Luke 23? video discussion](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/how-should-we-understand-christ-as-king-in-luke-23-video-discussion/) - The feast of Christ the King focusses on the kingship of Jesus as demonstrated by his victory on the cross. It is slightly unusual to jump to this theme at this stage in the lectionary, which was previously known as the Sunday Next Before Advent, or 'Stir-up Sunday. But it arises from the decision of
- [What does 'faith' and 'faithfulness' mean in the gospel of Luke?](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/what-does-faith-and-faithfulness-mean-in-the-gospel-of-luke/) - Chris Seglenieks writes: The question of what it means to believe is one that has shaped much of my researching New Testament studies. Faith is central to Christianity, but we don’t always stop to reflect on what it involves. When it comes to the gospels, I have found that many people assume the Synoptic Gospels (Matthew,
- [What does the ‘Little Apocalypse’ in Luke 21 teach us? video discussion](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/what-does-the-little-apocalypse-in-luke-21-teach-us-video-discussion/) - The Sunday gospel lectionary reading for the Second Sunday before Advent in Year C) is Luke 21.5–19, this gospel’s version of what is often called the ‘Little Apocalypse’. As usual, we need to read on to put this text in its context to understand both the text itself and how it compares with its parallels in
- [What does the 'Little Apocalypse' in Luke 21 teach us?](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/what-does-the-little-apocalypse-in-luke-21-teach-us/) - The Sunday gospel lectionary reading for the Second Sunday before Advent in Year C) is Luke 21.5–19, this gospel's version of what is often called the 'Little Apocalypse'. As usual, we need to read on to put this text in its context to understand both the text itself and how it compares with its parallels in
- [The annunciation to Mary in Luke 1](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/the-annunciation-to-mary-in-luke-1/) - The lectionary gospel reading for the Fourth Sunday in Advent is Luke 1.26–38; though this year's gospel is Mark, there is (of course) no annunciation in Mark, so we plunder part of Luke's narrative to fill the gap. I have previously posted on the annunciation in more general terms, noting that the account is rooted
- [New Anglican Bishops for England and Europe](https://www.psephizo.com/life-ministry/new-anglican-bishops-for-england-and-europe/) - Andrew Atherstone writes: It was a great privilege to journey from Oxford to Yorkshire last Friday (21 October) to witness the consecration of two of our distinguished Wycliffe Hall alumni as new Anglican bishops. There was a buzz of excitement in the air at the inauguration of their new ministries, and exhilaration at the gospel
- [What is preaching?](https://www.psephizo.com/life-ministry/what-is-preaching/) - I write a quarterly column for Preach magazine, in which I explore a significant word or phrase in the Bible and the ideas that it expresses. I have written for them on: the phrase ‘Word of God’ the theme of ‘Mission’ the meaning of ‘Apocalypse‘ the ministry of ‘Healing’, the question of ‘Welcome’, the biblical understanding
- [What is the Bishop of Oxford thinking?](https://www.psephizo.com/sexuality-2/what-is-the-bishop-of-oxford-thinking/) - Steven Croft, the bishop of Oxford, yesterday published a booklet Together in Love and Faith, in which he sets out his thinking about same-sex relationships, and proposes that the Church of England should provide public services for the blessing of same-sex civil partnerships and marriages, but allow a conscience clause for those who dissent, and eventually
- [What will it mean for us to 'be like the angels' in Luke 20?](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/what-will-it-mean-for-us-to-be-like-the-angels-in-luke-20/) - The Sunday's lectionary reading for the Third before Advent in Year C is Luke 20.27–38. Once more, the lectionary makes an odd choice; it would be more natural to read on to verse 40 and complete the pericope. The narrative recounts an exchange between Jesus and the Sadducees, who do not believe in bodily resurrection,
- [What does it mean to ‘be like the angels’ in Luke 20? video discussion](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/what-does-it-mean-to-be-like-the-angels-in-luke-20-video-discussion/) - This Sunday’s lectionary reading, Third before Advent in Year C, is Luke 20.27-38. Once more, the lectionary makes an odd choice; it would be more natural to read on to verse 40 and complete the pericope. The narrative recounts an exchange between Jesus and the Sadducees, who do not believe in bodily resurrection, and so
- [What are the options after Living in Love and Faith?](https://www.psephizo.com/sexuality-2/what-are-the-options-after-living-in-love-and-faith/) - Andrew Goddard writes: What follows builds on the previous article’s account of where the Church of England is in its LLF process of discernment, the importance of the bishops providing a theological argument for the way forward, and the need to recognise that we begin with an existing, long-established teaching on what constitutes a chaste
- [What are the practical implications following Living in Love and Faith?](https://www.psephizo.com/sexuality-2/what-are-the-practical-implications-following-living-in-love-and-faith/) - Andrew Goddard writes: Whatever is decided in relation to the teaching of the Church of England and the options considered in the previous article, the bishops also need to consider a number of practical questions as they propose the direction for the Church of England going forward. Here there are at least four broad areas to consider:
- [Discernment and decision following Living in Love and Faith](https://www.psephizo.com/sexuality-2/discernment-and-decision-following-living-in-love-and-faith/) - Andrew Goddard writes: Despite the College of Bishops being unable to meet as planned in September due to the death of the Queen, the Next Steps Group has confirmed that it is sticking to its original timetable for the discerning and deciding stages of the Living in Love and Faith journey. It will produce proposals for
- [Jesus calls Zacchaeus in Luke 19 video discussion](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/jesus-calls-zacchaeus-in-luke-19-video-discussion/) - The lectionary reading for the Fourth Sunday before Advent in Year C is the story of Zacchaeus’ encounter with Jesus in Luke 19.1–10, a story found only in this gospel. This short narrative episode has all the elements that make it a perfect Sunday-school story—yet the story is more complex than we first realise, and
- [Jesus calls Zacchaeus in Luke 19](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/jesus-calls-zacchaeus-in-luke-19/) - The lectionary reading for the Fourth Sunday before Advent in Year C is the story of Zacchaeus' encounter with Jesus in Luke 19.1–10, a story found only in this gospel. This short narrative episode has all the elements that make it a perfect Sunday-school story—the witty irony of the 'big' man who is too small
- [What is the New Testament's vision of mission?](https://www.psephizo.com/life-ministry/what-is-the-new-testaments-vision-of-mission/) - I have just published my second Grove booklet of the summer: What is the New Testament's Vision of Mission? Here I offer the introduction and conclusion; the intermediate chapters explore some key passages in the NT which give insight into mission theology and practice. Does the New Testament have a vision of mission? At one level,
- [The Pharisee and the tax-collector in Luke 18 video discussion](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/the-pharisee-and-the-tax-collector-in-luke-18-video-discussion/) - The gospel lectionary reading for the so-called Last Sunday after Trinity in Year C is Luke 18.9–14, the parable of the Pharisee and the Tax-collector. We are now (as we have been for a few weeks) in the thick of distinctively Lukan material. Although with distinct Lukan phraseology and concerns, this is a masterpiece of storytelling by
- [How can we encourage people to examine life and faith?](https://www.psephizo.com/reviews/how-can-we-encourage-people-to-examine-life-and-faith/) - Tim Murray is one of the pastors at Amblecote Christian Centre in Dudley, West Midlands, and he has written a great book Life Examined: why I am a Christian exploring in an accessible way the reasons for faith. I asked him about why he wrote the book, his approach, and how it can be used well. IP: You have
- [The parable of the Pharisee and the Tax-collector in Luke 18](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/the-parable-of-the-pharisee-and-the-tax-collector-in-luke-18/) - The gospel lectionary reading for the so-called Last Sunday after Trinity in Year C is Luke 18.9–14, the parable of the Pharisee and the Tax-collector. We are now (as we have been for a few weeks) in the thick of distinctively Lukan material. There are various claims as to how many of Jesus' parables in Luke are
- [The Ecclesiastical Doughnut: is the Church of England ungovernable?](https://www.psephizo.com/life-ministry/the-ecclesiasical-donut-is-the-church-of-england-ungovernable/) - Jon Kuhrt writes: Last week saw yet another Church of England report into safeguarding and institutional failings in the handling of abuse allegations. Almost 400 new cases involving actions by clergy, officials and volunteers against children and vulnerable adults were uncovered. In a foreword to the report, Justin Welby and Stephen Cottrell, the archbishops of Canterbury and York,
- [Celebrating Michael and his angels in Revelation 12](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/celebrating-michael-and-his-angels-in-revelation-12/) - Tomorrow is the feast of Michael and All Angels, which some will be celebrating at the weekend, and the key lectionary reading for the feast is Rev 12.7–12. Although the festival focusses on Michael, everything about this passages actually focusses away from Michael and points us to the victory of God and the lamb—even Michael's name!
- [Does God respond to nagging in Luke 18?](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/does-god-respond-to-nagging-in-luke-18/) - The Sunday lectionary gospel reading for Trinity 18 in Year C is the Parable of the Unjust Judge and the Persistent Widow from Luke 18.1–8. A surface reading, confirmed by most online comments on it, is that basically we need to be nagging God before he will answer our prayer! But a more careful reading,
- [Does God respond to nagging in Luke 18? video discussion](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/does-god-respond-to-nagging-in-luke-18-video-discussion/) - The Sunday lectionary gospel reading for Trinity 18 in Year C is the Parable of the Unjust Judge and the Persistent Widow from Luke 18.1–8. A surface reading, confirmed by most online comments on it, is that basically we need to be nagging God before he will answer our prayer! But a more careful reading,
- [How to encourage bullying in the Church](https://www.psephizo.com/psephizo/how-to-encourage-bullying-in-the-church/) - Stephen Kuhrt writes: The Screwtape Letters by C.S. Lewis was first published in February 1942. The book is made up of thirty one letters from a senior demon called Screwtape to his nephew, Wormwood. Wormwood is a junior tempter assigned to lead a man who has recently become a Christian away from God. By viewing the Christian life from the perspective
- [After Lambeth: what next for the Church of England?](https://www.psephizo.com/life-ministry/after-lambeth-what-next-for-the-church-of-england/) - Andrew Goddard writes: What are we to make of the recent Lambeth Conference, what it says about the state of the Anglican Communion, and the possible implications of all this for the Church of England? This is the lightly revised text of a talk given to the National Club in September 2022. After sketching the
- [Jesus heals the ten lepers in Luke 17 video discussion](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/jesus-heals-the-ten-lepers-in-luke-17-video-discussion/) - The Sunday lectionary reading for Trinity 17 in Year C is Luke 17.11-19, the story of Jesus healing ten lepers, only one of whom returns to thank him. The story has a surprising turn at the end—and our video discussion has a surprise in its ending too! Come and join the discussion between Ian and
- [Does Jesus treat us as good-for-nothing slaves in Luke 17? video discussion](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/does-jesus-treat-us-as-good-for-nothing-slaves-in-luke-17-video-discussion/) - The Sunday lectionary reading for Trinity 16 in Year C offers some serious challenges to our understanding and practice. The apostles said to the Lord, “Increase our faith!” He replied, “If you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mulberry tree, ‘Be uprooted and planted in the sea,’ and
- [How to Blog 2: building](https://www.psephizo.com/life-ministry/how-to-blog-2-building/) - All you need to know on how to set up a blog, what technical decisions you need to make, and the various options from the simplest to the most complex.
- [Does Jesus treat us as good-for-nothing slaves in Luke 17?](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/does-jesus-treat-us-as-good-for-nothing-slaves-in-luke-17/) - The Sunday lectionary reading for Trinity 16 in Year C offers some serious challenges to our understanding and practice. The apostles said to the Lord, “Increase our faith!” He replied, “If you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mulberry tree, ‘Be uprooted and planted in the sea,’ and
- [Is death 'nothing at all'?](https://www.psephizo.com/life-ministry/is-death-nothing-at-all/) - Mark Ireland writes: Watching the lying in state of the late Queen, and pondering the incredible devotion of those who queued all night in the cold, has prompted me to read again a sermon preached by Canon Henry Scott Holland in St Paul’s Cathedral after the death of King Edward VII. The late king’s body
- [Is the New Jerusalem a place—or a people?](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/is-the-new-jerusalem-a-place-or-a-people/) - Come with me, if you will, on an adventure of biblical imagination in Revelation 21 and 22. The New Jerusalem that is described there by John is mostly taken to be a place in which the people of God dwell with the presence of God—but what would happen if we interpreted everything in the vision as a
- [The seven practices of evangelical spirituality](https://www.psephizo.com/life-ministry/the-seven-practices-of-evangelical-spirituality/) - Evangelical identity is often thought to be best defined by the four aspects defined by David Bebbington in his Evangelicalism in Modern Britain: A History from the 1730s to the 1980s (London: Unwin Hyman, 1989; London: Routledge, 2003): There are four qualities that have been the special marks of Evangelical religion: conversionism, the belief that lives
- [The Case against the Sexual Revolution](https://www.psephizo.com/reviews/the-case-against-the-sexual-revolution/) - Peter Wyatt writes: According to Philip Larkin, ‘sexual intercourse began in nineteen sixty-three’. Until today, this sexual revolution, brought about by more effective forms of contraception, has been hailed as an emancipation of human beings. No longer were we subject to the restraints of traditional morality as policed by religious faith, and family mores. Instead,
- [The parable of the unjust steward in Luke 16 video discussion](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/the-parable-of-the-unjust-steward-in-luke-16-video-discussion/) - The Sunday lectionary gospel reading for Trinity 14 in Year C is Luke 16.1–13, the so-called Parable of the Unjust Steward (or ‘Dishonest Manager’). For various reasons, it is one of the most intriguing and challenging parables of Jesus to interpret, though popular readings commonly pass over the problems with it. James and Ian discuss
- [The parable of the unjust steward in Luke 16](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/the-parable-of-the-unjust-steward-in-luke-16/) - The Sunday lectionary gospel reading for Trinity 14 in Year C is Luke 16.1–13, the so-called Parable of the Unjust Steward (or 'Dishonest Manager'). For various reasons, it is one of the most intriguing and challenging parables of Jesus to interpret, though popular readings commonly pass over the problems with it. Here, I will explore
- [What has been the influence of the Alpha Course?](https://www.psephizo.com/reviews/what-has-been-the-influence-of-the-alpha-course/) - Andrew Atherstone’s latest book, Repackaging Christianity: Alpha and the Building of a Global Brand (Hodder & Stoughton), is newly published. I had the chance to ask him how, as a historian, he approached the project. IP: Why do you think we need a history of the Alpha course? AA: Alpha is a phenomenon! In the thirty
- [Grief and hope in mourning Queen Elizabeth II](https://www.psephizo.com/life-ministry/grief-and-hope-in-mourning-queen-elizabeth-ii/) - There is no doubt that the death of Queen Elizabeth II, following the longest reign in British history and the second longest anywhere in the world, ever, will be a milestone in the life of the nation. I found myself unexpectedly tearful as I heard the news. I cannot offer any lyrical eulogy as others
- [The short parables of the lost in Luke 15 video discussion](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/the-short-parables-of-the-lost-in-luke-15-video-discussion/) - The Sunday lectionary gospel for Trinity 13 in Year C is the first two of the three ‘parables of the lost’ in Luke 15, the parable of the lost sheep and the parable of the lost coin. We don’t go on to read the third, the parable of the prodigal son, since we read that
- [The short parables of the lost in Luke 15](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/the-short-parables-of-the-lost-in-luke-15/) - The Sunday lectionary gospel for Trinity 13 in Year C is the first two of the three 'parables of the lost' in Luke 15, the parable of the lost sheep and the parable of the lost coin. We don't go on to read the third, the parable of the prodigal son, since we read that
- [The costly grace of following Jesus in Luke 14 video discussion](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/the-costly-grace-of-following-jesus-in-luke-14-video-discussion/) - Why does Jesus say that we must 'hate' those we love, and our own life, in order to follow him? Why does he say this to 'the crowds'? What does this teach us about following Jesus—and about the nature of grace? James and Ian discuss the passage, its importance for our understanding, and issues in
- [The costly grace of following Jesus in Luke 14](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/the-costly-grace-of-following-jesus-in-luke-14/) - In the gospel reading for Trinity 12 in Year C, Luke 14.25–33, we complete our navigation through this section of Jesus' intermingled teaching and action until we hit the landfall of the 'parables of the lost' next week in Luke 15. The double focus on the crowds and discipleship, the drawing together of teaching found
- [Does Jesus have something against us?](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/does-jesus-have-something-against-us/) - Each year, during November, the Morning Prayer weekday lectionary takes us through the first few chapters of the Book of Revelation. In chapters 2 and 3, we have messages to the ekklesiae in seven cities of Roman Asia, the west end of what we now know as Turkey. There are some important and challenging things to note
- [Is Mary Magdalene a Tower that we have sidelined?](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/is-mary-magdalene-a-tower-that-we-have-sidelined/) - Diana Butler Bass preached a sermon in July that was widely circulated and listened to. The title is simply 'Mary the Tower', but the subtitle is more indicative of the thrust of her argument: 'What would Christianity be like if Mary Magdalene hadn't been hidden from view?' This points to two main claims that she proposes:
- [Jesus, the kingdom, and the politics of the table in Luke 14](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/jesus-the-kingdom-and-the-politics-of-the-table-in-luke-14/) - The lectionary gospel reading for Trinity 11 in Year C, Luke 14.1, 7–14, continues to engage with material that is unique to Luke, arranged in Luke's distinctive order, and bridging the worlds of the original context of Jesus and Judaism and Luke's context in wider Roman culture. The passage comes in a sequence of episodes
- [What is a Christian response to surveillance capitalism?](https://www.psephizo.com/life-ministry/what-is-a-christian-response-to-surveillance-capitalism/) - Mark Ireland has just written a fascinating Grove booklet on Surveillance Capitalism and the Loving Gaze of God. He begins by noting both the positive and the negative aspects of the internet, both for living and for Christian discipleship and ministry. I love technology—the connectedness, the ready flow of information and ideas. When I was growing up,
- [What do we do if we think the Bible is wrong?](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/what-do-we-do-if-we-think-the-bible-is-wrong/) - I first wrote this post some time ago, in 2014, but the graphic that provoked it is doing the rounds again—and I have thought further about my own response. So I am posting again a revised and expanded version of what I wrote then. There's a quotation that did the rounds earlier in the year from
- [The multiple layers of the story of the women bent double in Luke 13](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/the-multiple-layers-of-the-story-of-the-women-bent-double-in-luke-13/) - The lectionary gospel reading for Trinity 10 Year C is Luke 13.10–17, a remarkable short account, unique to Luke, of Jesus healing a crippled woman on the Sabbath. There are multiple layers to the meaning of this story, and an interesting and important challenge is how we might, in our own local context, enable exploration
- [What does it mean to love God with our minds?](https://www.psephizo.com/life-ministry/what-does-it-mean-to-love-god-with-our-minds/) - Is Christian faith about an affective encounter with God, or about becoming convinced about the case for Christianity? You will immediately be crying 'False dichotomy!'—but it is worth reflecting on the balance between these two ideas in contemporary expressions of faith. There was a time when the tradition of rational enquiry was most influential, but
- [The End of (the) Communion? (i) What has been said?](https://www.psephizo.com/life-ministry/the-end-of-the-communion-i-what-has-been-said/) - Andrew Goddard writes: On Tuesday at the Lambeth Conference there were a number of significant developments in relation to the questions of sexuality and ecclesiology. The Global South, headed by Archbishop Justin Badi of South Sudan, issued a resolution in relation to Lambeth I.10 with a covering explanatory letter. Archbishop Justin Welby also issued a letter
- [The End of (the) Communion? (ii): So where are we now?](https://www.psephizo.com/life-ministry/the-end-of-the-communion-ii-so-where-are-we-now/) - Andrew Goddard writes: Building on my earlier reading of the Archbishop of Canterbury’s contributions about Communion life, this article explores the ecclesiological questions that are important, and currently intertwined with, the questions relating to sexuality that tend to dominate discussion. It argues that although all wish for unity and communion there are currently two main competing visions
- [What does Scripture say about disability?](https://www.psephizo.com/life-ministry/what-does-scripture-say-about-disability/) - I write a quarterly column for Preach magazine, in which I explore a significant word or phrase in the Bible and the ideas that it expresses. I have written for them on: the phrase ‘Word of God’ the theme of ‘Mission’ the meaning of ‘Apocalypse‘ the ministry of ‘Healing’, the question of ‘Welcome’, the biblical understanding
- [What is the meaning of 'transfiguration'?](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/what-is-the-meaning-of-transfiguration/) - Philip Seddon writes: We are so used to speaking of ‘transfiguration’ in Christian terms that we have not realised how remarkable it is that Mark and Matthew used the Greek verb metamorphoō (in the passive: metamorphoumai) at all. In classical Greek and Latin literature, the verb, and the noun metamorphōsis, are both slippery, ambivalent words, largely
- [Asking questions of the woman of Samaria in John 4](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/asking-questions-of-the-woman-of-samaria-in-john-4/) - Chris Knight writes: John 4.4–42 relates Jesus’ encounter with a Samaritan woman by the well at Sychar. Most interpretations of the passage (what I will term ‘the majority view’) will affirm that the woman is an outcast, shunned because of her sinful life, and visiting the well at midday to avoid the other women of her
- [How do we live in trust, generosity and readiness in Luke 12?](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/how-do-we-live-in-trust-generosity-and-readiness-in-luke-12/) - The Sunday lectionary gospel for Trinity 8 in Year C is from Luke 12.32–40, and offers a slightly odd selection of verses, in that it includes the end of one section of Jesus' teaching—on trusting God for provision, and so being generous with our possessions—and the beginning of another, on readiness for the return of
- [Does Jesus bring peace or 'division and a sword' in Luke 12?](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/does-jesus-bring-peace-or-division-and-a-sword-in-luke-12/) - The Sunday lectionary reading (Trinity 9, Year C) continues on its journey through Luke's 'special section' of Jesus' ministry and teaching on road to Jerusalem from Luke 9.51 to Luke 18.14. In this short (and again, inexplicably truncated by the lectionary) reading from Luke 12.49–56 (you might choose to read on to verse 59 to
- [Paying attention to power in Lambeth 'Calls'](https://www.psephizo.com/life-ministry/paying-attention-to-power-in-lambeth-calls/) - Andrew Goddard writes: Among the Pastoral Principles for Living Well Together developed by the Church of England and commended by the Archbishop of Canterbury and the College of Bishops is “Pay Attention to Power”. Applying this to the Lambeth Calls process raises important and worrying questions. The Gestation of “Invitations” The Lambeth Conference would, if it
- [Lambeth 'Calls', Lambeth I.10, and the nature of the Anglican Communion (2): the future](https://www.psephizo.com/life-ministry/lambeth-calls-lambeth-i-10-and-the-nature-of-the-anglican-communion-2-the-future/) - Andrew Goddard writes: in my previous article, I explored the place of Lambeth I.10 in the Communion, mapped how different people and provinces had responded, and explored this as the background to the present controversy about the Lambeth Calls at this conference. I now turn to look at the Call on Human Dignity in detail,
- [Lambeth 'Calls', Lambeth I.10, and the nature of the Anglican Communion](https://www.psephizo.com/life-ministry/lambeth-calls-lambeth-i-10-and-the-nature-of-the-anglican-communion/) - Andrew Goddard writes: The inclusion of a reference to the 1998 Lambeth Resolution I.10 in one of the Lambeth Calls issued only last week, days before the opening of the Conference which has been being planned since at least 2018 and reportedly only drafted in May and June, led to a storm of protest. There has
- [Wealth becomes a rival god in Luke 12](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/wealth-becomes-a-rival-god-in-luke-12/) - The lectionary reading for the Seventh Sunday after Trinity in Year C is the Parable of the Rich Fool in Luke 12.13–21. It is one of several parables that is unique to Luke, and includes features that connect it with other Lukan parables. Since last week's reading of Jesus' teaching about prayer, things have moved
- [Should the Church of England disestablish?](https://www.psephizo.com/reviews/should-the-church-of-england-disestablish/) - Jonathan Chaplin has just published Beyond Establishment: Resetting Church State Relations in England (SCM 2022)—which is available at 20% discount until the end of this month from the SCM website. I was able to interview Jonathan about this fascinating book. IP: I really enjoyed this book—your crisp and clear style, extremely well researched and informed,
- [Wealth becomes a rival god in Luke 12 video discussion](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/wealth-becomes-a-rival-god-in-luke-12-video-discussion/) - The lectionary reading for the Seventh Sunday after Trinity in Year C is the Parable of the Rich Fool in Luke 12.13–21. It is one of several parables that is unique to Luke, and includes features that connect it with other Lukan parables. Ian and James discuss the details of the text—and the way that is continues to offer a remarkable contemporary challenge to culture, faith, and discipleship.
- [Is the C of E's 'Living in Love and Faith' project coherent?](https://www.psephizo.com/sexuality-2/is-the-c-of-es-living-in-love-and-faith-project-coherent/) - 'Andrew MacFarlane' writes: This is a short précis of a longer piece that included many references to current literature on the issues contained within Living in Love and Faith (LLF). This précis is not exhaustive but provides some key discussion points. The 'LGBT+' grouping The singular grouping of lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans-sexual, intersexual, and others
- [Should faith have 'crumple zones' and 'safety cells'?](https://www.psephizo.com/life-ministry/should-faith-have-crumple-zones-and-safety-cells/) - There was a time when cars were build with rigid chassis which ran from one end to the other, with the bumper fitted on either end. The logic of this was that, if the car crashed into anything, surely it would make sense to build the car as strong as possible, so that it would
- [How can we pray like Jesus in Luke 11? video discussion](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/how-can-we-pray-like-jesus-in-luke-11-video-discussion/) - The Sunday lectionary readings for the Sixth Sunday after Trinity in Year C continue through Luke’s gospel, and we now reach Luke 11.1–13 and Jesus’ teaching on prayer. This is part of what looks like a 'manual for discipleship' in these chapters, and it combines the question of prayer with our calling God 'Father', the
- [Spoiling the Beautiful Difference](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/spoiling-the-beautiful-difference/) - I have teamed up with Andrew Bartlett QC, author of Men and Women in Christ: Fresh Light from the Biblical Texts (IVP, 2019), to offer a biblical critique of ‘Beautiful Difference: The Complementarity of Male and Female’, by Andrew Wilson, speaker and theologian for Newfrontiers. For full details of authors and endorsers of this critique, see the
- [Teaching everyone about the whole story of Scripture](https://www.psephizo.com/life-ministry/teaching-everyone-about-the-whole-story-of-scripture/) - Stephen Kuhrt writes: Just before Christmas each year at Christ Church, New Malden, we have a Children’s Carol Service which tries to combine something of a pantomime style with making important points about the nature of the Christmas story. Earlier this year, I wrote something similar for the first time about Easter, again asking adults as
- [How can we pray like Jesus in Luke 11?](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/how-can-we-pray-like-jesus-in-luke-11/) - The Sunday lectionary readings for the Sixth Sunday after Trinity in Year C continue through Luke's gospel, and we now reach Luke 11.1–13 and Jesus' teaching on prayer. In reading this, we need to be alert to the fact that both the lectionary divisions and the chapter divisions in our Bibles (which are not part
- [Is the devotion of Mary better than the service of Martha in Luke 10? video discussion](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/is-the-devotion-of-mary-better-than-the-service-of-martha-in-luke-10-video-discussion/) - It is often held that the story of Martha and Mary in Luke 10 shows us that devotion to the teaching of Jesus is superior to the work involved in practical service. But does that really make sense, not least in the context of the Parable of the Good Samaritan that immediately precedes it? James
- [Bullying in the Church of England: Theological and Ethical Perspectives](https://www.psephizo.com/life-ministry/bullying-in-the-church-of-england-theological-and-ethical-perspectives/) - On 31st May, 2022, there was an online conference organised by ABEL (Against Bullying, Encouraging Love) entitled Pedestals, Pulpits and Pews: Perspectives on Bullying in the Church of England. Recordings of the presentations are viewable on YouTube. This article from Andrew Goddard is his presentation which, while only exploratory in nature, opens with how to
- [What does ordination training need to include?](https://www.psephizo.com/life-ministry/what-does-ordination-training-need-to-include/) - We are once again undertaking a review of ordination training in the Church of England, technically known as IME 1–3, Initial Ministerial Training years 1 to 3, to note that initial training continues in curacy prior to anyone becoming an incumbent (sole leader of a congregation). The reason for this is that all previous discussions
- [Why do we need to rethink the dating of the New Testament texts?](https://www.psephizo.com/reviews/why-do-we-need-to-rethink-the-dating-of-the-new-testament-texts/) - Tim Murray writes: It is an exciting time in New Testament studies! Change is in the air, and the scent of it can be caught in Jonathan Bernier’s Rethinking the Dates of the New Testament. For those of you who doubt that biblical scholarship can ever be particularly exciting, let me try to explain what
- [How should we translate 'man'?](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/how-should-we-translate-man/) - My friend Oliver Harrison recently raised an interesting question about the translation of sexed terms: Beautiful June dawn, so up to church to say Morning Prayer. But wait! What's this? Ps. 119:9 is translated as "How shall young people cleanse their way to keep themselves according to your word?" Now I'm pretty sure that's not
- [Seven surprising things about the Good Samaritan in Luke 10 video discussion](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/seven-surprising-things-about-the-good-samaritan-in-luke-10-video-discussion/) - The Sunday gospel lectionary reading for Trinity 4 in Year C is Luke 10.25-37, most commonly known as the Parable of the Good Samaritan. Because of its familiarity, many people reduce the point of this text to mere social action, telling people what they 'ought' to do. But there is much more to this passage,
- [Seven surprising things about the Good Samaritan in Luke 10](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/seven-surprising-things-about-the-good-samaritan-in-luke-10/) - The Sunday gospel lectionary reading for Trinity 4 in Year C is Luke 10.25-37, most commonly known as the Parable of the Good Samaritan. I suspect many people preaching on this will be looking to wring some new truth from this, but might well lapse back into the 'Jesus wants us to do good to others'
- [What kind of love will change our world?](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/what-kind-of-love-will-change-our-world/) - I recently preached at a wedding celebration on the classic wedding text, 1 Cor 13.1–8a. The celebration was international, and as a result had been delayed for two years because of Covid. The couple were young professionals and, apart from parents and some friends and relations of a similar age, the congregation were also mostly
- [How can we heal racial divides?](https://www.psephizo.com/reviews/how-can-we-heal-racial-divides/) - Graham Hunter offers this review of Healing The Divides, published by the Good Book Company here. When I first picked up a prospectus for London Bible College (now London School of Theology) in 1997 I was struck by the strap-line on the cover: 'To explain a truth simply you must understand it profoundly’. This sentiment appealed
- [What is Jesus’ approach to mission in Luke 10? video discussion](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/what-is-jesus-approach-to-mission-in-luke-10-video-discussion/) - This week Sunday lectionary reading for Trinity 3 Year C is Luke 10.1–11, 16–20 which records Jesus sending out the seventy-(two) on ‘mission’ and their return. It is passage that is rich with material for reflection on issues of ministry and pastoral theology—but one that also includes some surprising and challenging perspectives on what mission
- [What is Jesus' approach to mission in Luke 10?](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/what-is-jesus-approach-to-mission-in-luke-10/) - This week Sunday lectionary reading for Trinity 3 Year C is Luke 10.1–11, 16–20 which records Jesus sending out the seventy-(two) on 'mission' and their return. It is passage that is rich with material for reflection on issues of ministry and pastoral theology. 1 After this the Lord appointed seventy-two others and sent them two
- [Lambeth Conference: going from 'resolutions' to 'calls'](https://www.psephizo.com/life-ministry/lambeth-conference-going-from-resolutions-to-calls/) - Andrew Goddard writes: The question of who will be attending Lambeth which was explored in the first article last week is distinct from, but connected to, the question of where Lambeth is going, what it will do, what outcomes are being sought. The significant recent development here is the announcement that the Archbishop of Canterbury has
- [Why does Jesus make being a disciple so hard in Luke 9? Video discussion](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/why-does-jesus-make-being-a-disciple-so-hard-in-luke-9-video-discussion/) - The lectionary reading for Trinity 2 in Year C is Luke 9.51–62. It consists of a brief narrative of rejection of Jesus, following by a collection of three sayings about the challenge of discipleship—but the significance of this passage also derives from its place within Luke’s overall narrative. James and Ian discuss the passage, its
- [Why does Jesus make being a disciple so hard in Luke 9?](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/why-does-jesus-make-being-a-disciple-so-hard-in-luke-9/) - The lectionary reading for Trinity 2 in Year C is Luke 9.51–62. It consists of a brief narrative of rejection of Jesus, following by a collection of three sayings about the challenge of discipleship—but the significance of this passage also derives from its place within Luke's overall narrative. Luke 9.51 signals the beginning of Luke's
- [Who is going to Lambeth? Where is Lambeth going?](https://www.psephizo.com/life-ministry/who-is-going-to-lambeth-where-is-lambeth-going/) - Andrew Goddard writes: The Lambeth Conferences opens on July 26th, just over a month away. In recent days there has been quite a flurry of activity—including two announcements from the Archbishop of Canterbury—which has highlighted some of the challenges that it will face. The first communication was the text of a letter sent on 27th May
- [On bishops, politics and Rwanda](https://www.psephizo.com/life-ministry/on-bishops-politics-and-rwanda/) - The bishops of the Church of England have hit the headlines by writing to The Times in protest at the Government's plan to fly asylum seekers to Rwanda for treatment. Whether or not the first deportation flight leaves Britain today for Rwanda, this policy should shame us as a nation. Rwanda is a brave country
- [Jesus heals the Gerasene demoniac in Luke 8 video discussion](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/jesus-heals-the-gerasene-demoniac-in-luke-8-video-discussion/) - The lectionary reading for Trinity 1, Year C, is Luke’s version of Jesus meeting and healing the demon-possessed man in the ‘region of the Gerasenes’ (Luke 8.26–39). James and Ian discuss the story, its place in Luke, its relation to Mark's account, and the implications for our understanding of Jesus' ministry. https://youtu.be/0RkdSwHnTmc
- [Jesus heals the Gerasene demoniac in Luke 8](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/jesus-heals-the-gerasene-demoniac-in-luke-8/) - The lectionary reading for Trinity 1, Year C, is Luke's version of Jesus meeting and healing the demon-possessed man in the 'region of the Gerasenes' (Luke 8.26–39). The account occurs in all three Synoptic gospels; in Mark (the shortest gospel) the story is in the longest and most detailed version; Matthew 8.28–34 is the shortest,
- [When is Jesus 'coming on the clouds'?](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/when-is-jesus-coming-on-the-clouds/) - In my teaching and reflection on issues around eschatology and the 'second coming' of Jesus, there is one phrase that keeps coming up, and to which people thinking about these things keep returning: the language of the Son of Man 'coming with the clouds.' When I have offered an alternative reading to the key passages
- [The Trinity and John 16 video discussion](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/the-trinity-and-john-16-video-discussion/) - Should we preach on the Trinity on Trinity Sunday? Or should we preach on the passage in John 16? Or should our preaching always be in some sense 'Trinitarian'? James and Ian discuss the issue, the details of the text, and some important issues to think about when talking about the Trinity. For full textual
- [The Church of England, money, people, and mission](https://www.psephizo.com/life-ministry/the-church-of-england-money-people-and-mission/) - The Church of England finds itself in a very odd situation. On the one hand, it is facing continued decline in attendance, and I think in influence and reputation in our culture. The decline in attendance has been calculated with mathematical precision at John Hayward's Church Model website; if nothing changes, then he calculates that
- [The missionary Spirit gives life to the people of God at Pentecost video discussion](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/the-missionary-spirit-gives-life-to-the-people-of-god-at-pentecost-video-discussion/) - This Sunday is the Feast of Pentecost, when we remember, celebrate, and re-engage with the first giving of the Spirit at Pentecost as recounted in Acts 2., and the lectionary reading in this Year CX is, as every year, Acts 2.1–21. Although it is a comparatively long reading, in one sense it is not long
- [What language does scripture use about the Holy Spirit?](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/what-language-does-scripture-use-about-the-holy-spirit/) - It is quite common for people to make observations about the role or meaning of the Holy Spirit based on aspects of the language Scripture uses—including comments about the ‘gender’ role of the Spirit. But careful reading of the scriptural narrative shows a surprising diversity in the language that is used. The Spirit as hovering
- [How can we rejoice in an imperfect world?](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/how-can-we-rejoice-in-an-imperfect-world/) - I write a quarterly column for Preach magazine, in which I explore a significant word or phrase in the Bible and the ideas that it expresses. I have written for them on: the phrase ‘Word of God’ the theme of ‘Mission’ the meaning of ‘Apocalypse‘ the ministry of ‘Healing’, the question of ‘Welcome’, the biblical understanding
- [The missionary Spirit gives life to the people of God at Pentecost](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/the-missionary-spirit-gives-life-to-the-people-of-god-at-pentecost/) - This Sunday is the Feast of Pentecost, when we remember, celebrate, and re-engage with the first giving of the Spirit at Pentecost as recounted in Acts 2., and the lectionary reading in this Year CX is, as every year, Acts 2.1–21. Although it is a comparatively long reading, in one sense it is not long
- [Why is Ascension Day the most important moment in the New Testament?](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/why-is-ascension-day-the-most-important-moment-in-the-new-testament/) - What would you identify as the climax and completion of Jesus' life and ministry? Surprisingly, this is not a trivial question. One of the key differences between John and the synoptic gospels is that, where the synoptics portray the crucifixion as a necessary but incomplete act on the way to the resurrection, John portrays it
- [What was the focus of Jesus' prayer in John 17?](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/what-was-the-focus-of-jesus-prayer-in-john-17/) - The Sunday gospel lectionary reading for Easter 7 in Year C is John 17.20–26. It continues as part of the 'dicing up' of sections from the farewell discourse in John 13–17 across the three years of the lectionary, and like other readings it is strangely short—which creates the real danger that we read each part
- [How do we speak well—of each other as 'the church'?](https://www.psephizo.com/preaching-2/how-do-we-speak-well-of-each-other-as-the-church/) - Bryan Wolfmueller is a Lutheran pastor in Austin, Texas, who has an extensive ministry on radio and online on YouTube. He usually publishes twice a week on YouTube, including Sunday Drive Home, where (slightly unnervingly) he reflects on his Sunday sermon in the car as he drives home from church. But he is a consummate
- [Why should we care about the persecuted church?](https://www.psephizo.com/life-ministry/why-should-we-care-about-the-persecuted-church/) - Lee Proudlove writes: Deborah Samuel, a Christian teenager in Sokoto state in north western Nigeria, was brutally killed last week. Following a discussion on WhatsApp, Deborah was accused of blasphemy; she was dragged into the midst of a mob, stoned, and then her body was set on fire. The Guardian, reporting Deborah’s death, commented that in Nigeria
- [The gospel comes to Europe in Acts 16](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/the-gospel-comes-to-europe-in-acts-16/) - The Sunday lectionary reading for this week, Easter 6 in Year C, is Acts 16.9–15. We are continuing in this season to focus on the reading from Acts, which (the lectionary tells us) must be the first or second reading. This is a pivotal moment in the gentile mission, since it is the time when,
- [What does it mean to love our bodies?](https://www.psephizo.com/reviews/what-does-it-mean-to-love-our-bodies/) - Paul Adams writes: Love Thy Body: Answering Hard Questions about Life and Sexuality is a robust and compelling cultural apologetics text. The scope is large dealing with a range of highly controversial subjects such as abortion and infanticide (chapter 2), euthanasia and embryonic stem cell research, animal rights, genetic engineering, transhumanism (chapter 3), sexuality and
- [Peter, Cornelius and the work of the Spirit in Acts 11](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/peter-cornelius-and-the-work-of-the-spirit-in-acts-11/) - On Easter 5 in Year C, we find that once again the Sunday lectionary points us towards the reading from Acts as an important point of focus in the post-Easter narrative. The reading ‘which must be used as either the first or the second reading’ is Acts 11.1–18, the final episode in the ‘Petrine narrative’
- [How not to be Antisemitic](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/how-not-to-be-antisemitic/) - A service was held on Sunday 8th May to mark the 800th anniversary (one day early) of the Synod of Oxford of 9th May 1222 which introduced the first measures against Jews in England, and led to more harsh measures and the eventual expulsion of Jews from England in 1290. This appeared to have encouraged
- [How do we make sense of the end of the world?](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/how-do-we-make-sense-of-the-end-of-the-world/) - I was due to be at Lee Abbey in Devon this week, teaching on eschatology (thinking about 'the last things') and the end of the world. Sadly, Covid prevented me going, so I recorded five videos and did two Zoom question and answer sessions. The five videos are embedded below; the Zoom sessions were not
- [Why is the raising of Tabitha in Acts 9 significant? video discussion](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/why-is-the-raising-of-tabitha-in-acts-9-significant-video-discussion/) - The lectionary in the Easter season asks us to read from Acts as the first or second reading, so we are looking at the reading from Acts 9 for Easter 4 in Year C. The raising of Tabitha comes at an important point in the narrative of Acts, as the focus begins to shift from
- [Why is the raising of Tabitha in Acts 9 significant?](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/why-is-the-raising-of-tabitha-in-acts-9-significant/) - The lectionary readings for Easter 4 in Year C include three substantial readings: Acts 9.36-43, Revelation 7.9-17 and John 10.22-30. There is a note which says: 'The reading from Acts must be used as either the first or second reading', which suggests that this reading is thought to be particularly important—and this is characteristic of the Easter season.
- [How can we start the conversation about sexuality in the local church?](https://www.psephizo.com/sexuality-2/how-can-we-start-the-conversation-about-sexuality-in-the-local-church/) - In November 2020, the Church of England Evangelical Council (CEEC), which is a coalition of evangelical networks and organisations in the C of E, published a film called The Beautiful Story, offering the outline of an 'orthodox' response to the current discussions about sexuality in the church. It received a quite mixed response; from many,
- [153 fish, three loves, and one call to follow in John 21 video discussion](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/153-fish-three-loves-and-one-call-to-follow-in-john-21-video-discussion/) - The lectionary gospel reading for Easter 3 is John 21.1–19. It is a long reading, full of fascinating things to reflect on, including whether the number 153 means anything, and if there is any significance to the different words Jesus uses for 'love'. James and Ian reflect on these issues and their implication for reading
- [153 fish, three loves, and one call to follow in John 21](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/153-fish-three-loves-and-one-call-to-follow-in-john-21/) - The Sunday gospel lectionary reading for the Third Sunday of Easter in Year C is John 21.1–19. Unlike the reading for Easter Sunday, where we may read John 20 every year, and Easter 2, where we must read about 'Doubting' Thomas each year, we only read this in Year C—but it is an extremely well-known
- [What does ‘doubting Thomas’ teach us? video discussion](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/what-does-doubting-thomas-teach-us-video-discussion/) - The Sunday gospel lectionary reading for the Second Sunday in Easter is John 20.19–31, which includes Jesus’ encounter with so-called ‘doubting Thomas’. It is the set reading for this week in all three years of the lectionary, so we know it well—and need to reflect on it if we are going to preach effectively on
- [Dear Richard Coles, w(h)ither the Church of England?](https://www.psephizo.com/life-ministry/dear-richard-whither-the-church-of-england/) - Dear Richard I really enjoyed your honest reflections in The Times on Sunday April 17th in the light of your retirement this week. I felt as though I ought to respond in the second person, writing to you rather than writing about you, for several reasons. First, we are fellow clergy in the Church; we
- [What does 'doubting Thomas' teach us?](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/what-does-doubting-thomas-teach-us/) - The Sunday gospel lectionary reading for the Second Sunday in Easter is John 20.19–31, which includes Jesus' encounter with so-called 'doubting Thomas'. It is the set reading for this week in all three years of the lectionary, so we know it well—and need to reflect on it if we are going to preach effectively on
- ['On the cross, when Jesus died' was the 'wrath of God satisfied'?](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/on-the-cross-when-jesus-died-was-the-wrath-of-god-satisfied-2/) - 'In Christ Alone' by Stuart Townend and Keith Getty is one of the most popular 'modern hymns', and will no doubt be sung aplenty in this Easter season. I have been especially enjoying their continued output over the last couple of years; the musical interest combined with substantial, theological lyrics are just what many churches
- [Seeing the empty tomb and meeting the risen Jesus in John 20 video](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/seeing-the-empty-tomb-and-meeting-the-risen-jesus-in-john-20-video/) - The discovery by two disciples of the empty tomb, and Mary Magdelene’s encounter with Jesus, in John 20.1–18, is one of the main options for the gospel reading for Easter Sunday in Year C (the alternative is Luke 24.1–12). And it is, in many ways, the most appealing choice, because of its polished literary form,
- [Seeing the empty tomb and meeting the risen Jesus in John 20](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/seeing-the-empty-tomb-and-meeting-the-risen-jesus-in-john-20/) - The discovery by two disciples of the empty tomb, and Mary Magdelene's encounter with Jesus, in John 20.1–18, is one of the main options for the gospel reading for Easter Sunday in Year C (the alternative is Luke 24.1–12). And it is, in many ways, the most appealing choice, because of its polished literary form,
- [Celebrating Easter with the whole people of God](https://www.psephizo.com/life-ministry/celebrating-easter-with-the-whole-people-of-god/) - Stephen Kuhrt writes: For a number of years, I have written a Children’s Carol Service for use the Sunday before Christmas at Christ Church, New Malden. Both children and adults come in biblical costumes. The aim has been to combine something of the fun of Christmas Panto with conveying biblical theology that draws out the significance
- [Celebrating (No) Palm Sunday in Luke 19 video conversation](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/celebrating-no-palm-sunday-in-luke-19-video-conversation/) - This year, Year C in the lectionary, Palm Sunday is cancelled, so you need to do away with your palm crosses, and change the choice of hymns. The reason is that we are reading from Luke 19.28–40, and Luke makes no mention of ‘palms’ during Jesus’ ‘triumphal entry’ in Jerusalem, riding on a donkey. Instead,
- [Are trans people 'on a sacred journey'?](https://www.psephizo.com/sexuality-2/are-trans-people-on-a-sacred-journey/) - As preparation for hosting an international conference on LGBT+ rights, the Government committed to introduce new legislation banning 'conversion therapy'. Despite significant lobbying pressure from some LGBT+ groups, others objected, on three main grounds: that the basic terminology of 'conversion therapy' was unclear; that the initial proposals effectively criminalised anyone with a 'gender critical' view
- [Celebrating (No) Palm Sunday in Luke 19](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/celebrating-no-palm-sunday-in-luke-19/) - This year, Year C in the lectionary, Palm Sunday is cancelled, so you need to do away with your palm crosses, and change the choice of hymns. The reason is that we are reading from Luke 19.28–40, and Luke makes no mention of 'palms' during Jesus' 'triumphal entry' in Jerusalem, riding on a donkey. Instead,
- [Where is discontent in the Church of England?](https://www.psephizo.com/life-ministry/where-is-discontent-in-the-church-of-england/) - As I write the title for this piece, I feel rather hesitant. Why is it worth talking about discontent? Isn't it best left, so that we can focus on things that are positive? Sometimes that is true—but the difficulty with ignoring the discontent, or other negative feelings, is that they then fester, and become worse.
- [What does the C of E think the 'laity' are for?](https://www.psephizo.com/life-ministry/what-does-the-c-of-e-think-the-laity-are-for/) - There continues to be some heated debate in the C of E about the respective roles of clergy and laity. On the one hand, research shows that the deployment of stipendiary ministry and leadership is a key to church growth, and so cutting clergy numbers runs counter to current stated strategy. On the other hand,
- [Why is Jesus anointed at Bethany in John 12?](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/why-is-jesus-anointed-at-bethany-in-john-12/) - This Sunday gospel lectionary reading for Lent 5 in Year C takes a break from our reading of Luke's gospel to focus on the anointing of Jesus in Bethany by Mary, sister of Martha and Lazarus, in John 12.1–8. (If anyone can explain this move, I would love to hear!). This is an unusual narrative
- [Why is Jesus anointed at Bethany in John 12? video discussion](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/why-is-jesus-anointed-at-bethany-in-john-12-video-discussion/) - The Sunday gospel lectionary reading for Lent 5 in Year C takes a break from our reading of Luke’s gospel to focus on the anointing of Jesus in Bethany by Mary, sister of Martha and Lazarus, in John 12.1–8. (If anyone can explain this move, I would love to hear!). In this video, Ian and James
- [Is Jesus (un)like the Prodigal’s loving father in Luke 15? video conversation](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/is-jesus-unlike-the-prodigals-loving-father-in-luke-15-video-conversation/) - The Sunday gospel lectionary reading for Lent 4 in Year C is the parable of the prodigal son in Luke 15.1–3 and 11b–32, though it is perhaps as well called the parable of the loving father, or the parable of the father and the two sons. In the video below, James and Ian discuss the
- [(Why) do bad things happen to good people in Luke 13?](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/why-do-bad-things-happen-to-good-people-in-luke-13/) - The Sunday lectionary reading for the Third Sunday in Lent in Year C is Luke 13.1–9, where Jesus is questioned by his disciples about disaster bought on people by the wickedness of another, and Jesus extends the discussion into the question of disaster brought on by natural calamity. Though pertinent at the present moment because
- [Is Jesus (un)like the Prodigal's loving father in Luke 15?](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/is-jesus-unlike-the-prodigals-loving-father-in-luke-15/) - The Sunday gospel lectionary reading for Lent 4 in Year C is the parable of the prodigal son in Luke 15.1–3 and 11b–32, though it is perhaps as well called the parable of the loving father, or the parable of the father and the two sons. I realise that many will be focussing on Mothering
- [(Why) do bad things happen to good people in Luke 13? video discussion](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/why-do-bad-things-happen-to-good-people-in-luke-13-video-discussion/) - The Sunday lectionary reading for the Third Sunday in Lent in Year C is Luke 13.1–9, where Jesus is questioned by his disciples about disaster bought on people by the wickedness of another, and Jesus extends the discussion into the question of disaster brought on by natural calamity. Though pertinent at the present moment because
- [Why should we welcome the stranger?](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/why-should-we-welcome-the-stranger/) - I write a quarterly column for Preach magazine, in which I explore a significant word or phrase in the Bible and the ideas that it expresses. I have written for them on: the phrase ‘Word of God’ the theme of ‘Mission’ the meaning of ‘Apocalypse‘ the ministry of ‘Healing’, the question of ‘Welcome’, the biblical understanding
- [Who is included and excluded in Luke 13? Video conversation](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/who-is-included-in-and-excluded-in-luke-13-video-conversation/) - The gospel lectionary reading for Lent 2 in this Year C is Luke 13.31–35, and once again the lectionary does us something of a disservice by cutting this short passage off from its surrounding narrative. That is not such a problem in relation to what follows, since Luke begins chapter 14 with a clear narrative
- [Who is included in and excluded from the kingdom in Luke 13?](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/who-is-included-in-and-excluded-from-the-kingdom-in-luke-13/) - The gospel lectionary reading for Lent 2 in this Year C is Luke 13.31–35, and once again the lectionary does us something of a disservice by cutting this short passage off from its surrounding narrative. That is not such a problem in relation to what follows, since Luke begins chapter 14 with a clear narrative
- [Was Paul a universalist?](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/was-paul-a-universalist/) - It seems that universalism—the idea that God is somehow present in all people, or that all will experience 'salvation' without differentiation—is the widespread and mostly unreflected assumption of many in the C of E. I offered a critique of this a couple of years ago, in response to a comment made by the Archbishop of
- [How and when should we fast?](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/how-and-when-should-we-fast/) - At the beginning of Lent, it is traditional to consider taking up a spiritual discipline for the season—or perhaps giving something up. I have just read a number of posts telling me of friends who are giving up on social media until Easter! In the past, a key discipline has been that of fasting, but
- [Why is Jesus Tempted in Luke 4? Video conversation](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/why-is-jesus-tempted-in-luke-4-video-conversation/) - The Sunday gospel lectionary reading for Lent 1 in Year C is Luke 4.1–13, Luke's account of the temptation of Jesus in the desert. The 40 days that Jesus spent in the wilderness being tested by Satan offers us the pattern for the Lenten period—though it is worth noting at the outset both that the figure
- [Why is Jesus Tempted in Luke 4?](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/why-is-jesus-tempted-in-luke-4/) - The Sunday gospel lectionary reading for Lent 1 in Year C is Luke 4.1–13, Luke's account of the temptation of Jesus in the desert. The 40 days that Jesus spent in the wilderness being tested by Satan offers us the pattern for the Lenten period—though it is worth noting at the outset both that the figure
- [How should we preach on St Paul's exhortations?](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/how-should-we-preach-on-st-pauls-exhortations/) - A good deal of Paul's letters involves some form of telling his readers what they ought to be doing. This is not very surprising for the letters, like 1 Corinthians, where he is writing in response to problems, difficulties, and disputes that he has heard of. Where there is disagreement on an issue, Paul is
- [Why does Embracing Justice matter?](https://www.psephizo.com/life-ministry/why-does-embracing-justice-matter/) - The Archbishop of Canterbury's Lent Book this year is Embracing Justice by Dr Isabelle Hamley. Here, Alianore Smith explores why the arguments of the book are so important in practice, and introduces us to the work of International Justice Mission. Alianore Smith writes: I want introduce you to Thaiyamma. Thaiyamma was in her early 20s when she and
- [What is the meaning of the Transfiguration in Luke 9? Video conversation](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/what-is-the-meaning-of-the-transfiguration-in-luke-9-video-conversation/) - The Sunday lectionary gospel reading for the last Sunday before Lent in this Year C is Luke 9.28–36, this gospel's account of the Transfiguration, with the option of continuing to read the episode that follows immediately on the descent from the mountain. There some important things to note in relation to this passage as we think
- [What does the Transfiguration mean in Luke 9?](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/what-does-the-transfiguration-mean-in-luke-9/) - The Sunday lectionary gospel reading for the last Sunday before Lent in this Year C is Luke 9.28–36, this gospel's account of the Transfiguration, with the option of continuing to read the episode that follows immediately on the descent from the mountain. There some important things to note in relation to this passage as we think
- [Where is the Holy Spirit in the Lord's Prayer?](https://www.psephizo.com/life-ministry/where-is-the-holy-spirit-in-the-lords-prayer/) - A little while ago I had a curious discussion with someone online. Commenting on one of the events for Remembrance, I noted that the prayer said by the Christian leader took the form of a general invocation of a deity, but wasn't actually a Christian prayer. 'What do you mean by a Christian prayer?'
- [What does the Bible say about homelessness?](https://www.psephizo.com/life-ministry/what-does-the-bible-say-about-homelessness/) - Jon Kuhrt writes: It is a matter of historical fact that a huge number of the charities established to address homelessness were set up by committed Christians. Some retain a strong link to their founding beliefs; others have retreated from them. Some may be tempted to assume this is just a piece of history, a natural
- [Jesus stills the storm in Luke 8](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/jesus-stills-the-storm-in-luke-8/) - The Sunday gospel lectionary reading for the Second Sunday before Lent in Year C is Luke 8.22–25, the concise account by Luke of Jesus stilling the storm. (It is worth noting that the ecumenical lectionary has a different set of readings; apparently for the Church of England it was thought that there was not enough
- [Jesus stills the storm in Luke 8 video conversation](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/jesus-stills-the-storm-in-luke-8-video-conversation/) - The Sunday gospel lectionary reading for the Second Sunday before Lent in Year C is Luke 8.22–25, the concise account by Luke of Jesus stilling the storm. (It is worth noting that the ecumenical lectionary has a different set of readings; apparently for the Church of England it was thought that there was not enough
- [How do we proclaim good news during the pandemic?](https://www.psephizo.com/life-ministry/how-do-we-proclaim-good-news-during-the-pandemic/) - On Sunday just before lunch, I was invited to be interviewed on Sky News on Monday morning about a letter I had signed calling on the Government to keep churches open even if there was another lockdown. This is what I said—but I also want to offer some reflections on what is required to engage
- [How do people view the Church of England?](https://www.psephizo.com/life-ministry/how-do-people-view-the-church-of-england/) - Stephen Hance is National Lead for Evangelism and Witness for the Church of England. He has written a fascinating Grove Booklet arising from his research in his current role, Seeing Ourselves as Others See Us: Perceptions of the Church of England. I was able to ask him about his research and its implications for national and
- [Once again: should clergy be paid more?](https://www.psephizo.com/life-ministry/once-again-should-clergy-be-paid-more/) - I have just returned from the second session, in London, of the new Synod which first met last November. Some commented that the agenda looked rather dull, but (to coin a phrase) 'the devil is in the detail', and in amongst the boring-but-important discussions about faculties, boilers, and internet cabling, there were some startling insights
- [Interpreting the Beatitudes in Luke 6 video](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/interpreting-the-beatitudes-in-luke-6-video/) - The Sunday lectionary reading for the Third Sunday before Lent in Year C is Luke 6.17–26, this gospel’s version of the Beatitudes. One of the most obvious questions arising from the reading is how they relate to the Beatitudes as recorded in Matt 5.1–12. This might seem like a distraction to preaching on the passage
- [Making sense of the end of the world: teaching afternoon](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/making-sense-of-the-end-of-the-world-teaching-afternoon/) - Questions of what the Bible teaches about the end of the world have been given a renewed focus during the Covid pandemic. But in fact understanding what the New Testament says about this subject (known as 'eschatology' from the Greek words for 'last things' and 'study') affects the way we think about a whole range
- [Interpreting the Beatitudes in Luke 6](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/interpreting-the-beatitudes-in-luke-6/) - The Sunday lectionary reading for the Third Sunday before Lent in Year C is Luke 6.17–26, this gospel's version of the Beatitudes. One of the most obvious questions arising from the reading is how they relate to the Beatitudes as recorded in Matt 5.1–12. This might seem like a distraction to preaching on the passage
- [Do efforts to change sexual orientation ('conversion therapy') cause harm?](https://www.psephizo.com/sexuality-2/do-efforts-to-change-sexual-orientation-conversion-therapy-cause-harm/) - The UK Government has been holding a consultation on the possibility of making illegal 'conversion therapy', a provocative term for what is more widely known (in the literature) as SOCE (sexual orientation change efforts), which ends tonight (4th February 2022). Because the term is poorly defined, and explicitly includes 'talking therapies' which could include pastoral
- [Does God still perform miracles today?](https://www.psephizo.com/reviews/does-god-still-perform-miracles-today/) - Dr Gary Burnett offers this review of Craig Keener's recent book, Miracles Today: The Supernatural Work of God in the Modern World, Baker, 2021. Craig Keener is a significant and hugely respected New Testament scholar. If this book had been written by almost anyone else, I confess, I’m not sure what I would have made
- [The miraculous catch of fish in Luke 5 video](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/the-miraculous-catch-of-fish-in-luke-5-video/) - The Sunday gospel lectionary reading for the fourth Sunday before Lent in Year C is Luke 5.1–11, the story of the miraculous catch of fish, as we jump forward into Jesus’ ministry before returning to the temptations in the desert at the start of Lent. It is a captivating story in its own right, but
- [What is the meaning of miraculous catch of fish in Luke 5?](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/what-is-the-meaning-of-miraculous-catch-of-fish-in-luke-5/) - The Sunday gospel lectionary reading for the fourth Sunday before Lent in Year C is Luke 5.1–11, the story of the miraculous catch of fish, as we jump forward into Jesus’ ministry before returning to the temptations in the desert at the start of Lent. It is a captivating story in its own right, but
- [Can the C of E ever bridge its differences on sexuality?](https://www.psephizo.com/sexuality-2/can-the-c-of-e-ever-bridge-its-differences-on-sexuality/) - Andrew Goddard writes: Two years ago, as I headed to bed just gone midnight on January 23rd, I sent an email to colleagues involved in Living in Love and Faith (LLF) saying, “Am rather surprised to see this tonight on Twitter…I imagine it may cause a bit of a stir....”. The document concerned was Pastoral Guidance
- [Individual cups at Communion: history, theology and pastoral practice](https://www.psephizo.com/life-ministry/individual-cups-at-communion-history-theology-and-pastoral-practice/) - Grove Books have just published a new study, “Drink This, All of You”: Individual Cups at Holy Communion, by Andrew Atherstone and Andrew Goddard. I caught up with Andrew Atherstone to ask him about it. IP: Why do you think this booklet is needed, and why is it needed just now? AA: Many Church of
- [Why is the Book of Revelation claimed by every age?](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/why-is-the-book-of-revelation-claimed-by-every-age/) - One of the (many) great paradoxes of the Book of Revelation is that, at one and the same time, it is experienced as both very difficult to interpret, yet also very easy. This explains the very different reactions to it as a biblical text; those who instinctively sense that it is difficult to interpret find
- [The presentation of Jesus in Luke 2 video](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/the-presentation-of-jesus-in-luke-2-video/) - The lectionary reading for Epiphany 4 in Year C is Luke 2.22–40 as we celebrate the Presentation of Jesus in the temple in Jerusalem; this is also celebrated as the feast of Candlemas(s) and in many churches it marks the formal end of the Christmas season. (In the Church of England lectionary, we have this
- [The presentation of Jesus in the temple in Luke 2](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/the-presentation-of-jesus-in-the-temple-in-luke-2/) - The lectionary reading for Epiphany 4 in Year C is Luke 2.22–40 as we celebrate the Presentation of Jesus in the temple in Jerusalem; this is also celebrated as the feast of Candlemas(s) and in many churches it marks the formal end of the Christmas season. (In the Church of England lectionary, we have this
- [On the appointment of senior leaders in the Church](https://www.psephizo.com/sexuality-2/on-the-appointment-of-senior-leaders-in-the-church/) - On 6th January, it was announced that Stephen Knott, who has been working as part of the Lambeth Palace team, was appointed to be Archbishops’ Secretary for Appointments in succession to Caroline Boddington. The role has attracted attention in the past, since Caroline developed the role so that it had significant control over the process
- [The 'Nazareth manifesto' in Luke 4: a conversation](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/the-nazareth-manifesto-in-luke-4-a-conversation/) - The lectionary reading for Epiphany 3 in Year C is Luke 4.14–21. As is often the case with the lectionary, the reading is rather displaced and truncated; the previous episode is the temptation in the wilderness, which we will read at the beginning of Lent, and the following week we revert back to Luke 2 as
- [Grace—and judgement?—in the 'Nazareth manifesto' in Luke 4](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/grace-and-judgement-in-the-nazareth-manifesto-in-luke-4/) - The lectionary reading for Epiphany 3 in Year C is Luke 4.14–21. As is often the case with the lectionary, the reading is rather displaced and truncated; the previous episode is the temptation in the wilderness, which we will read at the beginning of Lent, and the following week we revert back to Luke 2 as
- [What's so good about the Old Testament?](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/whats-so-good-about-the-old-testament/) - I write a quarterly column for Preach magazine, in which I explore a significant word or phrase in the Bible and the ideas that it expresses. I have written for them on: the phrase ‘Word of God’ the theme of ‘Mission’ the meaning of ‘Apocalypse‘ the ministry of ‘Healing’, the question of ‘Welcome’, the biblical understanding
- [Tyndale NT Study group 2022: Ethics and moral transformation in the NT](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/tyndale-nt-study-group-2022-ethics-and-moral-transformation-in-the-nt/) - The theme for the Tyndale Fellowship New Testament Study Group in 2022 is 'Ethics and Moral Transformation in the New Testament'. It is taking place from Wednesday 22nd to Friday 24th June 2022 at High Leigh Conference Centre, Hertfordshire, south of Cambridge. Although we do not have joint sessions, we are in the same place
- [How has 'end times' expectation shaped Christian history and theology?](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/how-has-end-times-expectation-shaped-christian-history-and-theology/) - Martyn Whittock is a historian and a Licensed Lay Minister in the Church of England. He has just published a fascinating history of the interpretation of 'end times' ideas, The End Times, Again? 2000 Years of the Use and Misuse of Biblical Prophecy, and I was able to ask him about his book. IP: You are
- [Reading and preaching from John 2: a conversation](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/reading-and-preaching-from-john-2-a-conversation/) - The Sunday lectionary gospel in Year C for Epiphany 3 is John 2.1–11, the ‘sign’ of Jesus turning water into wine at the wedding in Cana. It offers us a good example of John’s remarkable ability in story-telling, where he combines an intense attention to realistic detail with powerful evocation of the scene. In 11 short
- [How should interpret the six stone water jars at Cana in John2?](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/how-should-interpret-the-six-stone-water-jars-at-cana-in-john2/) - The Sunday lectionary gospel in Year C for Epiphany 3 is John 2.1–11, the 'sign' of Jesus turning water into wine at the wedding in Cana. (In the Church of England version of the lectionary, it was also the reading on Epiphany 3 in Year B, though the ecumenical lectionary had a reading for Mark
- [John the Baptist, Jesus and judgement in Luke 3](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/john-the-baptist-jesus-and-judgement-in-luke-3/) - The gospel lectionary reading for the First Sunday of Epiphany/the Baptism of Christ in this Year C is Luke 3.15–17, 21–22. We have recently been exploring Luke 3 during Advent, having read the first six verses of this chapter with the announcement of John the Baptist's ministry in Advent 2, and the detail of his
- [The End of the World at Lee Abbey in Devon](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/the-end-of-the-world-at-lee-abbey-in-devon/) - Over the last two years, there seems to have been a heightened interest in certain circles in discussion of the 'end times'—and there is no doubt that this will continue. Many Christians don't know how to respond to or engage with this, and without a better understanding of what the New Testament says, unhelpful and
- [Myth and history in the Epiphany of Matthew 2](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/myth-and-history-in-the-epiphany-of-matthew-2/) - The lectionary gospel reading for this Sunday is either the Ephiphany in Matt 2.1–12, or the readings for Christmas 2 in Year C, which is John 1.1–18 or John 1.10–18. If you are using the readings for Christmas 2, I commented on most of this text earlier in the year, since John 1.1–14 was the
- [What kinds of resolutions bring real change?](https://www.psephizo.com/life-ministry/what-kinds-of-resolutions-bring-real-change/) - With the beginning of the New Year, we are in the customary season for making resolutions. I say 'season', but it is only four days in, and already the 'resolution' thing seems to have passed! But, as usual, there has been a variety of responses to this tradition. On my social media feeds, there seems
- [Four prayers for the New Year](https://www.psephizo.com/life-ministry/four-prayers-for-the-new-year-2021/) - I have always had mixed feelings about New Year resolutions. In previous years, January has always been the biggest time for new gym subscriptions—but most don't continue the habit past the end of the month, and many gyms run on the subscriptions of people who never come. This suggests that January isn't the best time
- [Three Christmas myths: on shepherds, swaddling and support](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/three-christmas-myths-on-shepherds-swaddling-and-support/) - Christmas is a time for celebration, for feasting and for relationships. But it is also a time for a mild engagement in iconoclasm, as we peel back the layers of accreted tradition and recover the origins of the Christmas gospel. In that spirit (and Spirit) I offer three Christmas surprises for you to unwrap at
- [Was Jesus born into a 'poor' family?](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/was-jesus-born-into-a-poor-family/) - One of the repeated themes of short Christmas expositions is that, in the nativity story, we see God coming to the 'poor', and as a result the main message of Christmas is that we should pay particular attention to the 'poor'. I put the term in inverted commas, because in both these contexts the term
- [At what time of year was Jesus really born?](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/at-what-time-of-year-was-jesus-really-born/) - I have previously published my own research on different aspects of Christmas, and now have quite a collection of articles. This week I am planning, without apology, to repost those which generated most interest. One of the problems about the development of traditions around Christmas is that people writing hymns or plays set Jesus' birth
- [Why do Matthew and Luke offer different birth narratives?](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/why-do-matthew-and-luke-offer-different-birth-narratives/) - James Bejon writes: As Christians, most of us are familiar with harmonised versions of the NT’s birth narratives. We see them acted out each year in Nativity plays (if we subject ourselves to such things). Considered in isolation, however, the birth narratives are less familiar, and even slightly awkward. They gloss over major events. Or,
- [What happens when we read the Magnificat with the Benedictus?](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/what-happens-when-we-read-the-magnificat-with-the-benedictus/) - The lectionary gospel reading for Advent 4 in Year C is Luke 1.39-45, with the option of reading on to Luke 1.46-55. Do please take the option of reading the Magnificat; reading the first half without the second would be like going to a Michelin-starred restaurant for dinner and leaving after the starter! It is
- [The preaching of John the Baptist in Luke 3](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/the-preaching-of-john-the-baptist-in-luke-3/) - The Sunday gospel lectionary reading for Advent 3 in Year C is Luke 3.7–17, and it follows closely on from last week's reading; verse begins 'He therefore said to the crowds...' which some English translations omit. The content of his teaching raises some fascinating issues about repentance, judgement, and discipleship, and the way in which the
- [Who Are the Seven Spirits in Revelation?](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/who-are-the-seven-spirits-in-revelation/) - Brandon Smith writes: Who are the seven spirits in Revelation? This question arises in the opening lines of John’s vision in which he refers to “the seven spirits who are before [God’s] throne” (Rev. 1:4). The seven spirits are named again in Jesus’s message to Sardis (Rev. 3:1), as well as twice in the throne-room scenes
- [Does 'Israel' have a divine right to the land?](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/does-israel-have-a-divine-right-to-the-land/) - A few years ago, Martin Saunders (of Youthscape) wrote an excellent article highlighting four issues which often prevent evangelicals from understanding what has been happening in the Israel/Gaza conflict—and these problems come up each time the conflict hits the news. First, he comments ‘It’s not as simple as good guys vs bad guys’, something which
- [Making sense of the end of the world: teaching morning](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/making-sense-of-the-end-of-the-world-teaching-morning/) - Questions of what the Bible teaches about the end of the world have been given a renewed focus during the Covid pandemic. But in fact understanding what the New Testament says about this subject (known as 'eschatology' from the Greek words for 'last things' and 'study') affects the way we think about a whole range
- [How should evangelicals respond to the abuse of power?](https://www.psephizo.com/life-ministry/how-should-evangelicals-respond-to-the-abuse-of-power/) - Ed Shaw writes: Like many groups in society, and other church traditions, we evangelicals have a problem when it comes to unhealthy cultures, misuses of power by those in leadership, and the resulting abuse of those meant to be enjoying their care. Names from the US like Mark Driscoll and Ravi Zacharias quickly illustrate this, as
- [Can we trust Scripture when there are so many interpretations?](https://www.psephizo.com/reviews/can-we-trust-scripture-when-there-are-so-many-interpretations/) - Andy Judd teaches Old Testament and hermeneutics at Ridley College, Melbourne, and a few years ago I heard him give a great paper at a conference on the Old Testament citations in Acts. He has just completed his doctoral research on Gadamer, Genre Theory and biblical hermeneutics, and I was able to ask him about
- [The announcement of John the Baptist in Luke 3](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/the-announcement-of-john-the-baptist-in-luke-3/) - This Sunday's gospel lectionary reading for Advent 2 in Year C is Luke 3.1–6, the location and opening of John the Baptist's ministry. We will hear more about the content of John's ministry next week; for now, we are just given the setting. During the last year, we have got used to reading Mark
- [How can we talk about sexuality as a pastoral question?](https://www.psephizo.com/sexuality-2/how-can-we-talk-about-sexuality-as-a-pastoral-question/) - John Smith writes: The publication of Living in Love and Faith poses a challenge to the entire Church of England to think through the divisions over human sexuality which have so dogged the Church in recent years. I have found myself wanting to set out some thoughts from the perspective of one who experiences same-sex
- [A seasonal reminder: Jesus was not born in a stable, and it matters!](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/a-seasonal-reminder-jesus-was-not-born-in-a-stable-and-it-matters/) - This morning's Thought for the Day on BBC Radio 4 by Sam Wells of St Martin's in the Fields once again repeated that familiar trope: Jesus was laid in an animal trough away from the support of immediate friends and family. The first is true; the second is a mistaken inference based on a misreading
- [Preaching on Christ the King](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/preaching-on-christ-the-king/) - This Sunday, the last of the liturgical year, is Christ the king, and comes immediately before Advent. It is a slightly odd festival, since one of the key themes of Advent is not the anticipation of Christmas, but the anticipation of Jesus’ return as king; the Latin adventus is a translation of the Greek parousia
- [What is distinctive about Luke's gospel?](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/what-is-distinctive-about-lukes-gospel/) - Richard Bauckham writes: This is the text of a sermon I preached originally in Christ Church, Chelsea, in order to introduce the congregation to the Gospel of Luke near the beginning of a year C in the Lectionary (year of Luke). There is one difference between the Gospels that anyone can see quite easily without even reading
- [Is Luke 21.25-36 about the Second Coming—or something else?](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/is-luke-21-25-36-about-the-second-coming-or-something-else/) - Advent is once more upon us (pun intended!), and with it comes two sets of confusion: the idea that Advent is the anticipation of Christmas (when it is really about looking forward to Jesus' return and The End); and the notion that the set passages in the lectionary are all about Jesus' return. As we
- [When is God 'coming on the clouds'?](https://www.psephizo.com/revelation/when-is-god-coming-on-the-clouds/) - Quite early on in Revelation (1.7) we find the phrase 'I am coming with the clouds', and it is striking that the near universal view of commentators on this verse is that it is a reference to the return of Jesus to earth, as promised in Acts 1 and elsewhere. (Note that the New Testament never uses the now-popular phrase 'second coming' of Jesus, since this pairs the future with his 'first coming' in the incarnation, whereas the NT always pairs his return with his departure, as in 'he will return in the same way you have seen him go' in Acts 1.11).
- [Three vital statistics from General Synod](https://www.psephizo.com/life-ministry/three-vital-statistics-from-general-synod/) - This week saw the first meeting of the new General Synod following elections last month. It was designed to be a largely uncontroversial first session, not least because around 60% of the members were new—something fairly unprecedented, which resulted in a surprising number of established members not being re-elected. Most of the items of business
- [Are there Two Types of Men in Leviticus 20:13?](https://www.psephizo.com/sexuality-2/are-there-two-types-of-men-in-leviticus-2013/) - Michael Messenger writes: Some months ago, I was alerted to an article in which David Instone-Brewer suggests that the prohibition of Leviticus 18:22 and 20:13 might apply only to activity between “heteroerotic males” (“Are there two types of men in Leviticus 20:13?”). While admitting that the evidence is “not enough to be certain” and “we
- [Which matters most: sin or climate change?](https://www.psephizo.com/life-ministry/which-matters-most-sin-or-climate-change/) - Which is more important for Christians to talk about: the need for action to address climate change? Or the need to repent and believe and receive the gift of life from God? When presented with all such false dichotomies, our first response might be ‘If I were you, I wouldn’t start from here!’ But here
- [Is Mark 13 about the end of the world and the return of Jesus?](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/is-mark-13-about-the-end-of-the-world-and-the-return-of-jesus/) - The Sunday lectionary reading for the Second Sunday before Advent in Year B is Mark 13.1–8. This feels a little odd, in that we last visited Mark 13 all the way back last Advent, when this lectionary year was just beginning, and the reading is quite truncated and only really makes sense when the chapter
- [Who needs a Trade Union for Faith?](https://www.psephizo.com/life-ministry/who-needs-a-trade-union-for-faith/) - Pete Hobson writes: Who needs a Trade Union for faith? When I started out in ordained ministry in the Church of England in 1977 I would have barely understood the question – and having grasped it would have quickly concluded it was not relevant to me. Over 40 years later I find myself chair of CECA
- [The preaching and call of Jesus in Mark 1](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/the-preaching-and-call-of-jesus-in-mark-1/) - The Sunday gospel lectionary for the Third Sunday before Advent at the end of this Year B is Mark 1.14-20, the beginning of Jesus' active ministry in Galilee following his baptism in the Jordan and testing in the wilderness. I have to say I have found what the lectionary does with the opening chapter of Mark's
- [Does 'Bleeding for Jesus' help resolve abuse issues?](https://www.psephizo.com/life-ministry/does-bleeding-for-jesus-help-resolve-abuse-issues/) - Many people have told me that Bleeding for Jesus by Andrew Graystone is ‘essential reading’, and I take this recommendation seriously for three reasons. First, I have known Andrew for some years, and engaged him to teach media and communications skills at the theological college where I taught. Secondly, as an evangelical of many years,
- [How does the 'Little Apocalypse' in Luke 21 relate to us?](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/how-does-the-little-apocalypse-in-luke-21-relate-to-us/) - Sunday's gospel lectionary reading (Second before Advent, Year C) is Luke 21.5–19. As usual, we need to read on to put this text in its context to understand both the text itself and how it compares with its parallels in Mark and Matthew. The opening of the discourse, which stimulates the whole narrative, is the
- [Statement on the criminalisation of LGBTQI+ people](https://www.psephizo.com/sexuality-2/statement-on-the-criminalisation-of-lgbtqi-people/) - It has been reported that leaders of the Anglican Church in Ghana are supporting a parliamentary bill that would strengthen harsh criminal sentences for same-sex sexual activity, criminalise people who advocate for LGBT rights, and even punish people just for identifying as LGBT. You can read a memorandum on the legislation here. We are aware that there
- [What will the new General Synod look like?](https://www.psephizo.com/life-ministry/what-will-the-new-general-synod-look-like/) - Peter Ould writes: The General Synod Elections 2021 are over and the results are in. Sadly we didn't get David Dimbleby or Huw Edwards bringing us an exit poll and wall to wall coverage, but there are still plenty of things for psephologists to get their teeth into. I have spent the last week analysing the
- [The healing of blind Bartimaeus in Mark 10](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/the-healing-of-blind-bartimaeus-in-mark-10/) - The gospel lectionary reading for the so-called Last Sunday after Trinity (or Trinity 21) in Year B is the story of the healing of blind Bartimaeus in Mark 10.46–52. (Apologies to my regular readers for the lack of comment on the previous two weeks of readings.) This reading has an appeal at two levels. First,
- [In which direction is Leicester leading the Church of England?](https://www.psephizo.com/life-ministry/in-which-direction-is-leicester-leading-the-church-of-england/) - On 9th October, Leicester Diocesan Synod voted to move to what they call a 'Minster communities framework' for ministry: The Diocese of Leicester Synod has voted in favour of a Minster Community framework with an amendment that the stipendiary (paid) leadership team of at least four people (including lay and ordained roles) in each of
- [How does Jesus summarise the law in Mark 12?](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/how-does-jesus-summarise-the-law-in-mark-12/) - The Sunday lectionary gospel reading for the Fourth Sunday before Advent in Year B is the dialogue that includes Jesus' summary of the law in Mark 12.28–34. As we count down the lectionary year, preparing to enter Advent with its focus on Jesus' return, Mark is counting down the days and hours to Jesus' trial
- [The raising of Lazarus in John 11](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/the-raising-of-lazarus-in-john-11/) - This Sunday, Lent 5 in Year A, we come to the last of our for explorations of Jesus' encounters with individuals that formed a catechumate in the early church in her raising of Lazarus in John 11.1–45. Next week, on Palm Sunday, we will return to our gospel of the year, Matthew, in the lead in
- [Where is atonement and the cross in the Book of Revelation?](https://www.psephizo.com/revelation/where-is-atonement-and-the-cross-in-the-book-of-revelation/) - Any discussion of ‘the cross’ in the Book of Revelation immediately faces a substantial challenge: in contrast with almost every other book in the New Testament, it is barely mentioned at all overtly. Its solitary explicit appearance comes in an extended prophetic narrative in chapter 11: the bodies of the ‘two witnesses’ will ‘lie in
- [How big should churches be?](https://www.psephizo.com/life-ministry/how-big-should-churches-be/) - Two years ago, one of the fringe meetings at July's session of the General Synod focussed on the needs of 'mid-sized churches', in this case defined as worshipping communities of 20 to 60. The reason for this was a question that William Nye, Secretary General of Synod and the Archbishops' Council, had raised: Without meaning
- [The culture change we need in the light of abuse scandals](https://www.psephizo.com/life-ministry/the-culture-change-we-need-in-the-light-of-abuse-scandals/) - Jon Kuhrt writes: Jonathan Fletcher was the vicar of Emmanuel Church Wimbledon (ECW) and enjoyed a high-profile and influential ministry. But in recent years, his bullying, coercive and abusive behaviour has been exposed. A report by the Safeguarding Agency thirtyone:eight catalogued Fletcher’s long-running pattern of sexual and spiritual abuse. Much of the fall-out from this
- [Does the death of Judas tell us we cannot trust the NT?](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/does-the-death-of-judas-tell-us-we-cannot-trust-the-nt/) - The two brief accounts of the death of Judas, in Matt 27.3–8 and in Act 1.18, are often used as a test case in the coherence and consistency of the NT documents. Many 'critical' scholars are confident that the two comments are irreconcilably contradictory, and (as I pointed out in a reflection on this a few
- [Does Jesus permit divorce 'for any reason' in Mark 10?](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/does-jesus-permit-divorce-for-any-reason-in-mark-10/) - The Sunday gospel lectionary reading for Trinity 18 in Year B is Mark 10.2–16. I think it is impossible to preach on this passage without dealing with the question of the consequences of Jesus' teaching for our own attitude to and the Church's practice in relation to divorce and remarriage, and this will make it
- [Tyndale NT Study Group 2022: Call for papers](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/tyndale-nt-study-group-2022-call-for-papers/) - The Letter of James charges us to be doers of the perfect law of Scripture and not hearers only. Like all New Testament texts, James desires not merely to inform his readers but to see them transformed by God’s power at work through the gospel. What does it mean to fulfil the law of Scripture? How
- [What is the role of the Spirit in 'critical' study of the Bible?](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/what-is-the-role-of-the-spirit-in-critical-study-of-the-bible/) - There is a widespread view that the work of the Spirit and the work of critical study of the Bible are like oil and water—they simply don't mix. This is reinforced from both directions. People who read the Bible devotionally often look distinctly nervous when the subject of 'academic' study of the Bible comes up.
- [The kingdom is both serious and accessible in Mark 9](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/the-kingdom-is-both-serious-and-accessible-in-mark-9/) - The Sunday lectionary gospel reading for Trinity 17 in Year B is Mark 9.38–50. It is a rather unusual reading; it completes the collection of sayings that we began last week, and there is some continuity across the two passages; and it does belong (as we noted last week) to a section of teachings of
- [Why we should all be using printed Bibles](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/why-we-should-all-be-using-printed-bibles/) - It's not uncommon in churches, when the time comes for the Bible reading, to see people reach not for a printed pew Bible, but for their phones, to read the Bible on a phone app. Since the pandemic, people have become even more nervous about picking up a printed Bible in church—despite the lack of
- [How does God speak to us in our in moments of pain and loss?](https://www.psephizo.com/reviews/how-does-god-speak-to-us-in-our-in-moments-of-pain-and-loss/) - Mark Bradford is the vicar at St Cuthbert’s Fulwood in Preston, and I knew him from his ordination training at the college where I taught. He has written a fascinating book, The Space Between, reflecting on how God speaks to us and shapes us in those difficult times when things are not going right or in
- [How can we read and interpret Scripture well?](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/how-can-we-read-and-interpret-scripture-well/) - I write a quarterly column for Preach magazine, in which I explore a significant word or phrase in the Bible and the ideas that it expresses. I have written for them on: the phrase ‘Word of God’ the theme of ‘Mission’ the meaning of ‘Apocalypse‘ the ministry of ‘Healing’, the question of ‘Welcome’, the biblical understanding
- [Jesus' radical inversion of community values in Mark 9](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/jesus-radical-inversion-of-community-values-in-mark-9/) - The Sunday gospel lectionary reading for Trinity 16 in Year B is Mark 9.30–37. In our reading of Mark, we have leap-frogged from the confession at Ceasarea Philippi, over the Transfiguration (which is considered at other times in the lectionary) and the following deliverance episode, to a short cluster of sayings, though stopping short of
- [Can we combine compassion and truth in response to transgender?](https://www.psephizo.com/sexuality-2/can-we-combine-compassion-and-truth-in-response-to-transgender/) - Andrew Bunt, who is Assistant Pastor at King’s Church, Hastings and Bexhill, has written a fascinating and helpful Grove Booklet on welcoming and supporting transgender people in the Grove Pastoral series, under the title People not Pronouns: Reflections on Transgender Experience. I asked him about the background to writing the booklet, and the interesting approach that he
- [How are we interconnected with God's creation?](https://www.psephizo.com/life-ministry/how-are-we-interconnected-with-gods-creation/) - Joshua Penduck writes: You are not 100% human. In 2016, the Weizmann Institute of Science in Israel discovered that 56% of the cells contained in a human body are not human cells. Instead, they are bacterial. Yes, at least in terms of the number of cells, you are more bacteria than human. You are teeming
- [Debating the Church and same-sex marriage](https://www.psephizo.com/sexuality-2/debating-the-church-and-same-sex-marriage/) - On Friday 3rd September, at 2.10 pm, I had a phone call from a number I did not recognise. When I answered, it turned out to be from a BBC researcher asking if I would appear on BBC1 on Sunday morning for a debate about the Church of England and same-sex marriage, in the light
- [The turning point of the gospel in Mark 8](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/the-turning-point-of-the-gospel-in-mark-8/) - The reading for Trinity 15 in Year B is Mark 8.27–38, the encounter with forms the pivot in the second gospel: until now, there has been power, success, dynamism and crowds, but from now on, Jesus walks the lonely path to suffering and the cross. At the northernmost point of his ministry, Jesus turns from
- [What does charismatic renewal bring to the Church?](https://www.psephizo.com/life-ministry/what-does-charismatic-renewal-bring-to-the-church/) - Christopher Landau is being commissioned as the new Director of ReSource, formerly known as Anglican Renewal Ministries, on Wednesday 8th September. I asked him about the organisation, his own experiences, and renewal in the Church today. IP: What is ReSource? Where did the organisation come from, and what has been its role recently? CL: One
- [What do East Asians bring to the debates about 'race'?](https://www.psephizo.com/life-ministry/what-do-east-asians-bring-to-the-debates-about-race/) - Mark Nam is a curate in the Church of England in Bristol diocese, and has convened a network for those of Chinese and East Asian heritage in the Church. I asked him about his own journey of faith, and what this new network might contribute to the life of the Church. IP: Can you tell
- [Did the Syrophoenician woman in Mark 7 teach Jesus not to be racist?](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/did-the-syrophoenician-woman-in-mark-7-teach-jesus-not-to-be-racist/) - The gospel lectionary reading for Trinity 14 in Year B is Mark 7.24-37, which includes the episode of Jesus' encounter with the Syrophoenician woman that often brings readers up short, containing as it does what appears to be a rather shocking insult. Jesus is seeking to withdraw from public attention, needing some time for rest
- [Did the Syrophoenician woman teach Jesus to be Jesus?](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/did-the-syrophoenician-woman-teach-jesus-to-be-jesus/) - The episode of Jesus' encounter with the Syrophoenician woman in Mark 7.24–30 often brings readers up short, containing as it does what appears to be a rather shocking insult. Jesus is seeking to withdraw from public attention, needing some time for rest and recuperation, but (as characteristic of his portayal in Mark's gospel) he is
- [Can the Church ever reach young people again?](https://www.psephizo.com/life-ministry/can-the-church-ever-reach-young-people-again/) - Amongst the rather depressing statistics about decline in attendance at Church of England services, one that stands out is the plummeting of engagement with young people. Jimmy Dale is the Church of England's National Youth Evangelism Officer, and I had the chance to ask him about the current situation—how we got here, and whether anything
- [Where is good and evil in Afghanistan?](https://www.psephizo.com/life-ministry/where-is-good-and-evil-in-afghanistan/) - Tom Bowring writes: I fall into writing this piece from a place of unwilling necessity following a period of reflective silence. If you were to ask my wife, she’d tell you I never talk about Afghanistan and, as psychologists do, go on to suggest this is as much about personal growth and transition as it
- [What does the Bible say about grief?](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/what-does-the-bible-say-about-grief/) - I write a quarterly column for Preach magazine, in which I explore a significant word or phrase in the Bible and the ideas that it expresses. I have written for them on: the phrase ‘Word of God’ the theme of ‘Mission’ the meaning of ‘Apocalypse‘ the ministry of ‘Healing’, the question of ‘Welcome’, the biblical understanding
- [Are we in the 'end times'?](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/are-we-in-the-end-times/) - Yesterday I was the guest on the hour-long 'Bible surgery' on Premier Christian Radio, hosted by Maria Rodrigues and recorded over Zoom. It was the first time that I had worked with Maria, and she is a lovely person! Although the programme was an hour long, with songs and breaks my contribution was about 35
- [What's going on with 1 Cor 14?](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/what-going-on-with-1-cor-14/) - When an rather obscure argument about a finer point of textual criticism (the study of differences in early manuscripts of the NT) makes it into the mainstream media, then you might be forgiven for thinking that something odd or rather interesting is going on. That's what happened last week; in Thought for the Day on
- [Where is the Cross found in the Book of Revelation?](https://www.psephizo.com/revelation/where-is-the-cross-found-in-the-book-of-revelation/) - Any discussion of ‘the cross’ in the Book of Revelation immediately faces a substantial challenge: in contrast with almost every other book in the New Testament, it is barely mentioned at all overtly. Its solitary explicit appearance comes in an extended prophetic narrative in chapter 11: the bodies of the ‘two witnesses’ will ‘lie in
- [Is 'Babylon' Rome or Jerusalem?](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/is-babylon-rome-or-jerusalem/) - In my commentary on the Book of Revelation, I assume without much discussion that references to 'Babylon' are in the first instance (for John and his readers) allusions to the power of Rome and the imperial system. Someone commented to me that I don't give much space to debating this, or considering the other main
- [Should we proclaim that 'God is love'?](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/should-we-proclaim-that-god-is-love/) - If you had to sum up the core message that we had to proclaim in one idea, what would it be? My feeling is that, reflecting on things I have read and conversations that I have been involved in, there is a pretty strong consensus amongst Christians and Christian leaders in the UK at the
- [The historic reading of 1 Tim 2](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/the-historic-reading-of-1-tim-2/) - The debate about the rather challenging verses in Paul's first letter to Timothy continues to surface at regular intervals, and it is often characterised as being between those who maintain the 'historic' understanding of these verses, so requiring women not to teach or have authority in church, and those who want to offer an 'innovative'
- [What is the pastoral impact of eschatology?](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/what-is-the-pastoral-impact-of-eschatology/) - In my new Grove booklet on eschatology, after outlining eschatological expectation in Old and New Testaments, I end my reflecting on the pastoral implications of what we have found.There are many aspects of Christian living which are affected by our understanding of eschatology, and where misunderstanding creates serious obstacles both within the church and at
- [Do we need to 'Save the Parish'?](https://www.psephizo.com/life-ministry/do-we-need-to-save-the-parish/) - Frog Orr-Ewing writes: On Tuesday 3rd August, a gathering was hosted by Marcus Walker in St Bartholomew the Great, London’s oldest parish church, to launch a campaign to “Save the Parish”. This small conference was intended to begin a campaign for General Synod, expressly to stop resources being siphoned away from parishes, and to ‘resist any
- [What does it mean to 'eat Jesus' in John 6?](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/what-does-it-mean-to-eat-jesus-in-john-6/) - We are in the fourth of five weeks in the lectionary winding our way slowly through the feeding of the 5,000 in John 6 and the following discourse, in which Jesus declares he is the bread of life, and that he will feed all who come to him. The reading for Trinity 11 in this
- [Is change in the Church's teaching on sexuality inevitable?](https://www.psephizo.com/sexuality-2/is-change-in-the-churchs-teaching-on-sexuality-inevitable/) - I really like Francis Spufford. I loved his book Unapologetic, in which he seeks to give an emotional, rather than rational, 'argument' for the Christian faith. It includes a perfect summary of the dilemma that Christians have in talking about sin and forgiveness, noting how the word 'sin' has been degraded into the idea of eating
- [Was Jesus black?](https://www.psephizo.com/life-ministry/was-jesus-black/) - One of the (several) highly contentious issues in the Church of England at the moment is the question of racism, its extent in the Church, and appropriate and effective responses to it. It has long been a question of interest to me, since soon after coming to faith I felt that God might be calling
- [Jesus the bread of life in John 6](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/jesus-the-bread-of-life-in-john-6/) - We continue through our careful reading of John 6 as an intermission from Mark's gospel, and on Trinity 9 in Year B the gospel reading is John 6.24–35. Having romped through 21 verses last week, which include the Fourth Gospel's lengthier version of the feeding of the 5,000 and Jesus walking on water (though in a
- [The 'parable' of the sheep and the goats in Matthew 25](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/the-parable-of-the-sheep-and-the-goats-in-matthew-25/) - The gospel reading in the lectionary for the last Sunday before Advent (now known as 'Christ the King') is Matthew 25.31–46, the so-called 'parable of the sheep and the goats'. But it isn't actually a parable (since there is no suggestion that 'the kingdom of heaven is like this'), and isn't really about sheep and goats
- [Where is the judgement in Luke 4?](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/where-is-the-judgement-in-luke-4/) - The lectionary reading for Epiphany 4 in Year C is Luke 4.14–21. As is often the case with the lectionary, the reading is rather displaced and truncated; the previous episode is the temptation in the wilderness, which we will read at the beginning of Lent, and the following week we revert back to Luke 2 as
- [Why I still won't be watching the Olympics](https://www.psephizo.com/life-ministry/why-i-still-wont-be-watching-the-olympics/) - I wrote this piece five years ago, at the time of the 2016 Rio Olympics. I am not sure much has changed, has it? In addition, we are staging a potentially virus-super-spreading event in a country whose population mostly don't want it, who have been put into lockdown to allow the event to take place.
- [Can the C of E plant new churches and retain the parish system?](https://www.psephizo.com/life-ministry/can-the-c-of-e-plant-new-churches-and-retain-the-parish-system/) - There has been a rather heated debate in the last few weeks about new church-planting initiatives in the Church of England, particularly with recent reporting of an initiative called Myriad, and its partnership with the Gregory Centre for Church Multiplication. The Gregory Centre describes itself in these terms: The Gregory Centre for Church Multiplication supports
- [Should we withhold the giving of wine in Holy Communion?](https://www.psephizo.com/life-ministry/should-we-withhold-the-giving-of-wine-in-holy-communion/) - Thomas Renz writes: Decisions that had to be made in response to the current pandemic previously prompted me to write briefly on the history of withholding the cup, on arguments against it, on the Communion of the sick, on the doctrines of transubstantiation and concomitance, and on God’s real presence, pondering the implications for celebrating
- [The feeding of the 5000 in John 6](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/the-feeding-of-the-5000-in-john-6/) - The lectionary takes us from famine to feast—metaphorically and literally!—as we move from the sparse verses about Jesus' ministry in Mark 6 to the lavish feast of both the feeding of the 5,000 and Jesus walking on the water in John 6. Whilst we might have struggled to find a sermon on last week's readings, there
- [Jesus (and Peter) walking on the water in Matthew 14](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/jesus-and-peter-walking-on-the-water-in-matthew-14/) - The Sunday lectionary reading for the Ninth Sunday of Trinity in Year A is Matt 14.22–33, Matthew's instinctive account of Jesus' walking across the water and Peter's response to it. I am finding this recent, sustained immersion in Matthew's narrative very interesting. We have often noted how Matthew's accounts are more compressed than the other
- [How to simply grow the church](https://www.psephizo.com/life-ministry/how-to-simply-grow-the-church/) - Yesterday I had a delightful, brief conversation with a friend about what is happening in different dioceses. Friend: Our bishop has turned our diocese around. Me: How has he done that? Friend: By not cutting clergy posts, and not appointing an archdeacon. Instead we have focussed on the question of stewardship. Me: Surely it isn't
- [The nature of Jesus' ministry in Mark 6](https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/the-nature-of-jesus-ministry-in-mark-6/) - The gospel lectionary reading for Trinity 7 in Year B appears to be very odd at first, with a split collection of verses in Mark 6.30–34 and 53–56. I think the logic for this is that we are considering the 'bread' of another Markan sandwich, and the 'filling' is the paired episodes of the feeding

## Pages

- [Welcome—and thanks for visiting!](https://www.psephizo.com/)
- [Support](https://www.psephizo.com/support/) - Thank you for visiting the blog—I hope that you have found the posts you have read helpful, encouraging and a useful resource. If you would like to support this ministry, there are four main things you could do. Pray The development and popularity of this blog was not something I had fully anticipated, but I
- [Cookies & Privacy](https://www.psephizo.com/privacy/) - Data Privacy Statement 1. Personal data Personal data relates to a living individual who can be identified from that data. Identification can be by the information alone or in conjunction with any other information in the data controller’s possession or likely to come into such possession. The processing of personal data is governed by the
- [About](https://www.psephizo.com/about/) - My name is Ian Paul. Originally from London, I studied pure maths at St John's College, Oxford and applied maths (Operational Research) at the University of Southampton before working in industrial business with Mars Confectionery in Slough in planning, manufacturing and personnel. I trained for ordination in the Church of England at St John's College,
- [Commendations](https://www.psephizo.com/commendation/) - I am available to teach or speak at educational institutions, in churches, training events and conferences. To discuss this, please email me at ian(at)psephizo.com or connect with me through Facebook. Please see the Speaking page for details of my areas of expertise in teaching and speaking. This is what others have said about me: Ian is a hugely
- [Archives](https://www.psephizo.com/archives/) - The Last 30 Posts Categories Monthly Archives
- [Contact](https://www.psephizo.com/contact/) - You can contact me by emailing ian[at]psephizo.com, or completing this form.
- [Speaking](https://www.psephizo.com/speaking/) - I am available to teach or speak at educational institutions, in churches, training events and conferences. To discuss this, please complete either email me at ian(at)psephizo.com or ideally send a completed request to speak form here: Ian Paul request form 2020 For a full list of my academic teaching, qualifications and publications, please download my
- [Timeline](https://www.psephizo.com/timeline/)
- [Sitemap](https://www.psephizo.com/psephizo-sitemap/)
- [Publications](https://www.psephizo.com/publications/) - There are the books I have written, edited or contributed to:

## Categories

- [Psephizo](https://www.psephizo.com/category/psephizo/)
- [MacEuphoria](https://www.psephizo.com/category/maceuphoria/)
- [Biblical Studies](https://www.psephizo.com/category/biblical-studies/)
- [Life & Ministry](https://www.psephizo.com/category/life-ministry/)
- [The Bible on Local Radio](https://www.psephizo.com/category/bible-local-radio/)
- [Preaching](https://www.psephizo.com/category/preaching-2/)
- [Sexuality](https://www.psephizo.com/category/sexuality-2/)
- [Gender](https://www.psephizo.com/category/gender-2/)
- [Book Reviews](https://www.psephizo.com/category/reviews/)
- [Revelation](https://www.psephizo.com/category/revelation/)

## Tags

- [Apple Mail](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/apple-mail/)
- [deleted mailbox](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/deleted-mailbox/)
- [recover email](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/recover-email/)
- [Apple](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/apple/)
- [email](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/email/)
- [deleted](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/deleted/)
- [mailbox](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/mailbox/)
- [iPhone](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/iphone/)
- [cracked screen](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/cracked-screen/)
- [replace screen](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/replace-screen/)
- [iPhone screen](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/iphone-screen/)
- [Stories](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/stories/)
- [Technology](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/technology/)
- [iPad](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/ipad/)
- [Bible](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/bible/)
- [Genesis](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/genesis/)
- [Radio](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/radio/)
- [Biblical literacy](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/biblical-literacy/)
- [Origins](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/origins/)
- [women](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/women/)
- [ministry](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/ministry/)
- [authority](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/authority/)
- [Grove](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/grove/)
- [Heroes](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/heroes/)
- [Law](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/law/)
- [Food](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/food/)
- [Thanks](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/thanks/)
- [Prayer](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/prayer/)
- [Hermeneutics](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/hermeneutics/)
- [Paul](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/paul/)
- [Corinthians](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/corinthians/)
- [leadership](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/leadership/)
- [Critical study](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/critical-study/)
- [Rowan Williams](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/rowan-williams/)
- [CEEC](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/ceec/)
- [evangelism](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/evangelism/)
- [eschatology](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/eschatology/)
- [sin](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/sin/)
- [mission](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/mission/)
- [security](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/security/)
- [identity](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/identity/)
- [unity](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/unity/)
- [Bible overview](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/bible-overview/)
- [Teaching](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/teaching/)
- [Matthew](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/matthew/)
- [Lily Allen](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/lily-allen/)
- [Song of Songs](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/song-of-songs/)
- [Sex](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/sex/)
- [Duty](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/duty/)
- [Pleasure](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/pleasure/)
- [Volunteering](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/volunteering/)
- [Film](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/film/)
- [King's Speech](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/kings-speech/)
- [Gifting](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/gifting/)
- [training](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/training/)
- [validation](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/validation/)
- [funding](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/funding/)
- [New Testament](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/new-testament/)
- [textual criticism](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/textual-criticism/)
- [reliability](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/reliability/)
- [Bart Ehrman](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/bart-ehrman/)
- [Israel](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/israel/)
- [Zionism](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/zionism/)
- [bishops](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/bishops/)
- [rulers](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/rulers/)
- [protest](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/protest/)
- [prophets](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/prophets/)
- [James](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/james/)
- [structure](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/structure/)
- [reporting](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/reporting/)
- [1 and 2 Kings](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/1-and-2-kings/)
- [liturgy](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/liturgy/)
- [Common Worship](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/common-worship/)
- [baptism](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/baptism/)
- [Synod](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/synod/)
- [Ruth](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/ruth/)
- [devotion](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/devotion/)
- [John](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/john/)
- [Jehovah's Witness](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/jehovahs-witness/)
- [giving](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/giving/)
- [sacrifice](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/sacrifice/)
- [money](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/money/)
- [Lent](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/lent/)
- [discipline](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/discipline/)
- [love](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/love/)
- [city](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/city/)
- [Facebook](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/facebook/)
- [community](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/community/)
- [research](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/research/)
- [Hebrews](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/hebrews/)
- [1 Peter](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/1-peter/)
- [journey](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/journey/)
- [Jesus](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/jesus/)
- [pioneer](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/pioneer/)
- [discipleship](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/discipleship/)
- [sexuality](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/sexuality/)
- [adoption](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/adoption/)
- [gender](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/gender/)
- [Acts](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/acts/)
- [YouTube](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/youtube/)
- [video](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/video/)
- [QuickTime](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/quicktime/)
- [Perian](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/perian/)
- [PowerPoint](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/powerpoint/)
- [Leviticus](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/leviticus/)
- [forgiveness](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/forgiveness/)
- [encounter](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/encounter/)
- [MacBook](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/macbook/)
- [Hard drive](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/hard-drive/)
- [upgrade](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/upgrade/)
- [KRCS](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/krcs/)
- [commentary](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/commentary/)
- [Ephesians](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/ephesians/)
- [Witherington](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/witherington/)
- [rapture](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/rapture/)
- [Dick France](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/dick-france/)
- [providence](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/providence/)
- [Esther](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/esther/)
- [Old Testament](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/old-testament/)
- [History](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/history/)
- [Bible's Buried Secrets](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/bibles-buried-secrets/)
- [Francesca Stavrakopoulou](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/francesca-stavrakopoulou/)
- [marriage](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/marriage/)
- [1 Timothy](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/1-timothy/)
- [Wycliffe](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/wycliffe/)
- [Tyndale](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/tyndale/)
- [Tom Wright](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/tom-wright/)
- [translation](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/translation/)
- [Mary Gardner](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/mary-gardner/)
- [Psalms](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/psalms/)
- [praise](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/praise/)
- [lament](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/lament/)
- [weakness](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/weakness/)
- [2 Corinthians](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/2-corinthians/)
- [lead codices](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/lead-codices/)
- [Margaret Barker](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/margaret-barker/)
- [Philip Davies](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/philip-davies/)
- [David Elkington](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/david-elkington/)
- [Romans](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/romans/)
- [women bishops](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/women-bishops/)
- [Peter Thonemann](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/peter-thonemann/)
- [Hosea](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/hosea/)
- [Ben Witherington](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/ben-witherington/)
- [preaching](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/preaching/)
- [Mark](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/mark/)
- [narrative](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/narrative/)
- [characterisation](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/characterisation/)
- [spirituality](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/spirituality/)
- [mundane](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/mundane/)
- [witness](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/witness/)
- [conflict](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/conflict/)
- [decision](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/decision/)
- [Jonah](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/jonah/)
- [grumpy](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/grumpy/)
- [Osama Bin Laden](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/osama-bin-laden/)
- [America](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/america/)
- [violence](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/violence/)
- [justice](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/justice/)
- [Amos](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/amos/)
- [judgement](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/judgement/)
- [Gospels](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/gospels/)
- [apologetics](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/apologetics/)
- [heaven](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/heaven/)
- [hell](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/hell/)
- [parables](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/parables/)
- [Luke's gospel](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/lukes-gospel/)
- [Lazarus](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/lazarus/)
- [Mark 13](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/mark-13/)
- [second coming](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/second-coming/)
- [parousia](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/parousia/)
- [gay](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/gay/)
- [Coalition for Marriage](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/coalition-for-marriage/)
- [George Carey](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/george-carey/)
- [same sex unions](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/same-sex-unions/)
- [evil](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/evil/)
- [war](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/war/)
- [truth](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/truth/)
- [power](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/power/)
- [all-age](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/all-age/)
- [worship](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/worship/)
- [Revelation](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/revelation/)
- [Apocalypse](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/apocalypse/)
- [Comic Relief](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/comic-relief/)
- [poverty](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/poverty/)
- [inequality](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/inequality/)
- [aid](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/aid/)
- [comedy](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/comedy/)
- [temptation](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/temptation/)
- [politics](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/politics/)
- [economics](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/economics/)
- [media](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/media/)
- [church](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/church/)
- [Lord's Prayer](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/lords-prayer/)
- [Church of England](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/church-of-england/)
- [evangelical](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/evangelical/)
- [ethics](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/ethics/)
- [fasting](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/fasting/)
- [images](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/images/)
- [learning](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/learning/)
- [Peter](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/peter/)
- [men](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/men/)
- [Health Service](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/health-service/)
- [culture](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/culture/)
- [vocation](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/vocation/)
- [market](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/market/)
- [salvation](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/salvation/)
- [God](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/god/)
- [kingship](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/kingship/)
- [birth](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/birth/)
- [greatness](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/greatness/)
- [royalty](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/royalty/)
- [Didache](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/didache/)
- [Tobit](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/tobit/)
- [inspiration](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/inspiration/)
- [Scripture](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/scripture/)
- [Wonga](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/wonga/)
- [debt](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/debt/)
- [Exodus](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/exodus/)
- [Bretherton](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/bretherton/)
- [resurrection](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/resurrection/)
- [biblical theology](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/biblical-theology/)
- [Scripture Union](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/scripture-union/)
- [Rob Bell](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/rob-bell/)
- [Agape](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/agape/)
- [Matt Walmsley](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/matt-walmsley/)
- [New Wine](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/new-wine/)
- [Anglicanism](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/anglicanism/)
- [Todd Hunter](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/todd-hunter/)
- [J I Packer](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/j-i-packer/)
- [Sean Doherty](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/sean-doherty/)
- [Peter Ould](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/peter-ould/)
- [atonement](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/atonement/)
- [wrath](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/wrath/)
- [Stuart Townend](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/stuart-townend/)
- [Stephen Travis](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/stephen-travis/)
- [cross](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/cross/)
- [substitution](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/substitution/)
- [Presbyterian](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/presbyterian/)
- [doctrine](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/doctrine/)
- [Reza Aslan](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/reza-aslan/)
- [Syria](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/syria/)
- [Just War](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/just-war/)
- [Iraq](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/iraq/)
- [Arab Christians](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/arab-christians/)
- [Pope Francis](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/pope-francis/)
- [peace](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/peace/)
- [interpretation](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/interpretation/)
- [Emmaus](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/emmaus/)
- [Luther](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/luther/)
- [Calvin](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/calvin/)
- [education](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/education/)
- [Michael Gove](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/michael-gove/)
- [children](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/children/)
- [faith](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/faith/)
- [allegory](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/allegory/)
- [Joshua](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/joshua/)
- [Rahab](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/rahab/)
- [Nolan](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/nolan/)
- [virtue](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/virtue/)
- [public life](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/public-life/)
- [John Stott](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/john-stott/)
- [Michael](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/michael/)
- [Isaiah](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/isaiah/)
- [All Angels](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/all-angels/)
- [song](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/song/)
- [Google](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/google/)
- [quotations](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/quotations/)
- [capture](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/capture/)
- [rhetoric](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/rhetoric/)
- [persuasion](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/persuasion/)
- [speech](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/speech/)
- [Daily Mail](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/daily-mail/)
- [bias](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/bias/)
- [Miliband](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/miliband/)
- [regulation](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/regulation/)
- [suffering](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/suffering/)
- [persecution](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/persecution/)
- [canon](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/canon/)
- [Joseph Atwill](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/joseph-atwill/)
- [NSS](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/nss/)
- [schools](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/schools/)
- [atheism](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/atheism/)
- [David and Jonathan](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/david-and-jonathan/)
- [tribalism](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/tribalism/)
- [Murrow](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/murrow/)
- [Podles](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/podles/)
- [lectionary](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/lectionary/)
- [Christmas](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/christmas/)
- [Kenneth Bailey](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/kenneth-bailey/)
- [nativity](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/nativity/)
- [tradition](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/tradition/)
- [growth](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/growth/)
- [feedback](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/feedback/)
- [team working](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/team-working/)
- [genre](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/genre/)
- [risk](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/risk/)
- [disaster](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/disaster/)
- [Philippines](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/philippines/)
- [Polly Toynbee](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/polly-toynbee/)
- [Pilling](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/pilling/)
- [Andrew Goddard](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/andrew-goddard/)
- [Diocese of Guildford](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/diocese-of-guildford/)
- [civil partnerships](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/civil-partnerships/)
- [Aristotle](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/aristotle/)
- [Tim Gombis](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/tim-gombis/)
- [household codes](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/household-codes/)
- [1 Corinthians](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/1-corinthians/)
- [Peter Head](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/peter-head/)
- [Nelson Mandela](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/nelson-mandela/)
- [humility](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/humility/)
- [vision](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/vision/)
- [respect](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/respect/)
- [futurist](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/futurist/)
- [Robert Mounce](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/robert-mounce/)
- [Irenaeus](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/irenaeus/)
- [Daniel](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/daniel/)
- [Rick Warren](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/rick-warren/)
- [bodilyness](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/bodilyness/)
- [hope](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/hope/)
- [light](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/light/)
- [dark](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/dark/)
- [Milton Jones](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/milton-jones/)
- [Advent](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/advent/)
- [theocentric](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/theocentric/)
- [Sidney Greidanus](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/sidney-greidanus/)
- [work](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/work/)
- [employment](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/employment/)
- [pensions](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/pensions/)
- [retirement](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/retirement/)
- [Greece](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/greece/)
- [democracy](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/democracy/)
- [Vicky Beeching](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/vicky-beeching/)
- [internet](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/internet/)
- [parenting](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/parenting/)
- [beard](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/beard/)
- [Simon Jenkins](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/simon-jenkins/)
- [Philip Esler](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/philip-esler/)
- [iconography](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/iconography/)
- [writing](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/writing/)
- [creativity](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/creativity/)
- [ministr](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/ministr/)
- [disappointment](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/disappointment/)
- [guidance](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/guidance/)
- [Joseph](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/joseph/)
- [David Runcorn](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/david-runcorn/)
- [General Synod](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/general-synod/)
- [singing](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/singing/)
- [Bible Hunters](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/bible-hunters/)
- [time management](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/time-management/)
- [camels](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/camels/)
- [Blogging](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/blogging/)
- [creation](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/creation/)
- [Linda Woodhead](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/linda-woodhead/)
- [Robert Banks](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/robert-banks/)
- [LICC](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/licc/)
- [ecclesiology](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/ecclesiology/)
- [diversity](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/diversity/)
- [intercession](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/intercession/)
- [performance](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/performance/)
- [Steve Stickley](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/steve-stickley/)
- [Steve Chalke](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/steve-chalke/)
- [Andrew Wilson](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/andrew-wilson/)
- [Mark Driscoll](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/mark-driscoll/)
- [Mark's gospel](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/marks-gospel/)
- [Pharisees](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/pharisees/)
- [goodness](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/goodness/)
- [integrity](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/integrity/)
- [finance](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/finance/)
- [George Osborne](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/george-osborne/)
- [World Vision](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/world-vision/)
- [certainty](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/certainty/)
- [Islam](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/islam/)
- [Rev](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/rev/)
- [John's gospel](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/johns-gospel/)
- [Richard Bauckham](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/richard-bauckham/)
- [numerology](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/numerology/)
- [calling](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/calling/)
- [Justin Welby](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/justin-welby/)
- [Maria Miller](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/maria-miller/)
- [Palm Sunday](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/palm-sunday/)
- [Easter](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/easter/)
- [service](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/service/)
- [Noah](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/noah/)
- [Aronofsky](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/aronofsky/)
- [Alan Wilson](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/alan-wilson/)
- [James Brownson](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/james-brownson/)
- [polygamy](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/polygamy/)
- [Piketty](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/piketty/)
- [Evangelical Alliance](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/evangelical-alliance/)
- [Oasis Trust](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/oasis-trust/)
- [Menken](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/menken/)
- [Red letter Christians](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/red-letter-christians/)
- [Tony Campolo](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/tony-campolo/)
- [Tim Keller](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/tim-keller/)
- [Colin Buchanan](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/colin-buchanan/)
- [listening](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/listening/)
- [social media](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/social-media/)
- [Rachel Held Evans](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/rachel-held-evans/)
- [confirmation](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/confirmation/)
- [New Calvinism](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/new-calvinism/)
- [Holy Spirit](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/holy-spirit/)
- [Gordon Fee](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/gordon-fee/)
- [holiness](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/holiness/)
- [Craig Koester](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/craig-koester/)
- [metaphor](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/metaphor/)
- [George Orwell](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/george-orwell/)
- [feminism](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/feminism/)
- [grief](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/grief/)
- [bereavement](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/bereavement/)
- [loss](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/loss/)
- [incarnation](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/incarnation/)
- [fundamentalism](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/fundamentalism/)
- [science](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/science/)
- [tolerance](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/tolerance/)
- [death](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/death/)
- [First World War](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/first-world-war/)
- [Rolf Harris](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/rolf-harris/)
- [abuse](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/abuse/)
- [suicide](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/suicide/)
- [assisted dying](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/assisted-dying/)
- [Peter Saunders](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/peter-saunders/)
- [Paul Ricoeur](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/paul-ricoeur/)
- [experience](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/experience/)
- [Gaza](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/gaza/)
- [Arab-Israeli conflict](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/arab-israeli-conflict/)
- [Augustine](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/augustine/)
- [Richard Foster](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/richard-foster/)
- [millennium](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/millennium/)
- [Peter Bates](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/peter-bates/)
- [wisdom](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/wisdom/)
- [Abraham](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/abraham/)
- [Mark Regnerus](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/mark-regnerus/)
- [prophecy](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/prophecy/)
- [Richard Dawkins](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/richard-dawkins/)
- [Mike Higton](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/mike-higton/)
- [Ken Robinson](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/ken-robinson/)
- [utilitarianism](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/utilitarianism/)
- [Andrew Atherstone](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/andrew-atherstone/)
- [Richard Briggs](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/richard-briggs/)
- [Gospel of Thomas](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/gospel-of-thomas/)
- [apocryphal gospels](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/apocryphal-gospels/)
- [Simon Gathercole](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/simon-gathercole/)
- [Jeremy Pemberton](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/jeremy-pemberton/)
- [Changing Attitude](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/changing-attitude/)
- [Michael Haines](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/michael-haines/)
- [pacifism](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/pacifism/)
- [Mohammed](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/mohammed/)
- [Scotland](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/scotland/)
- [independence](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/independence/)
- [1 Samuel](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/1-samuel/)
- [Alec Salmond](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/alec-salmond/)
- [lostness](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/lostness/)
- [testimony](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/testimony/)
- [scripts](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/scripts/)
- [notes](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/notes/)
- [Ed Miliband](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/ed-miliband/)
- [David Cameron](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/david-cameron/)
- [Peter Enns](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/peter-enns/)
- [progressives](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/progressives/)
- [Bultmann](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/bultmann/)
- [Craig Blomberg](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/craig-blomberg/)
- [John Byron](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/john-byron/)
- [inerrancy](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/inerrancy/)
- [Michael Mosley](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/michael-mosley/)
- [Alice Roberts](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/alice-roberts/)
- [brain science](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/brain-science/)
- [deficit](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/deficit/)
- [desire](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/desire/)
- [kingdom of God](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/kingdom-of-god/)
- [covenant](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/covenant/)
- [Julian Henderson](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/julian-henderson/)
- [Blackburn Diocese](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/blackburn-diocese/)
- [Left Behind](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/left-behind/)
- [David Jeremiah](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/david-jeremiah/)
- [Simon Kershaw](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/simon-kershaw/)
- [sabbath](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/sabbath/)
- [rest](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/rest/)
- [Sunday](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/sunday/)
- [Steve Holmes](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/steve-holmes/)
- [Apocrypha](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/apocrypha/)
- [Stephen Wright](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/stephen-wright/)
- [Transhumanism](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/transhumanism/)
- [Michael Burdett](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/michael-burdett/)
- [remembrance](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/remembrance/)
- [St John's Nottingham](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/st-johns-nottingham/)
- [fresh expressions](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/fresh-expressions/)
- [Mark Rodel](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/mark-rodel/)
- [Martin Davie](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/martin-davie/)
- [SBL](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/sbl/)
- [megachurch](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/megachurch/)
- [funerals](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/funerals/)
- [budget](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/budget/)
- [Michael Wilshaw](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/michael-wilshaw/)
- [Radio 4](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/radio-4/)
- [Lord Green](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/lord-green/)
- [broadcasting](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/broadcasting/)
- [new year](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/new-year/)
- [Richard Coles](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/richard-coles/)
- [Francis Drake](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/francis-drake/)
- [Epiphany](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/epiphany/)
- [homiletics](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/homiletics/)
- [Project 3:28](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/project-328/)
- [Brian McLaren](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/brian-mclaren/)
- [Marcion](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/marcion/)
- [Judith Lieu](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/judith-lieu/)
- [Steven Croft](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/steven-croft/)
- [ordination](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/ordination/)
- [Jerome T Walsh](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/jerome-t-walsh/)
- [Thomas Renz](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/thomas-renz/)
- [sociology](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/sociology/)
- [hospitality](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/hospitality/)
- [ecumenism](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/ecumenism/)
- [Gavin Ashenden](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/gavin-ashenden/)
- [Kenji Goto](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/kenji-goto/)
- [Japan](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/japan/)
- [Galatians](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/galatians/)
- [Gavin Wakefield](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/gavin-wakefield/)
- [Stephen Fry](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/stephen-fry/)
- [business](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/business/)
- [Ed Shaw](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/ed-shaw/)
- [election](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/election/)
- [Jonathan Chaplin](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/jonathan-chaplin/)
- [labyrinth](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/labyrinth/)
- [lifepath](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/lifepath/)
- [France](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/france/)
- [welcome](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/welcome/)
- [Thom Shultz](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/thom-shultz/)
- [James Fowler](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/james-fowler/)
- [stages](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/stages/)
- [Angela Tilby](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/angela-tilby/)
- [Pilgrim course](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/pilgrim-course/)
- [fruitfulness](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/fruitfulness/)
- [pruning](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/pruning/)
- [Stanley Hauerwas](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/stanley-hauerwas/)
- [John Barclay](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/john-barclay/)
- [justification](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/justification/)
- [Roland Deines](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/roland-deines/)
- [James Blandford Baker](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/james-blandford-baker/)
- [Giles Goddard](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/giles-goddard/)
- [interfaith](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/interfaith/)
- [Southwark](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/southwark/)
- [repentance](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/repentance/)
- [calendar](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/calendar/)
- [Matt Bird](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/matt-bird/)
- [relationships](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/relationships/)
- [Matthew Kirkpatrick](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/matthew-kirkpatrick/)
- [Tim Sumpter](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/tim-sumpter/)
- [Steve Hollinghurst](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/steve-hollinghurst/)
- [Chris Tilling](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/chris-tilling/)
- [Maundy Thursday](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/maundy-thursday/)
- [Tony Jordan](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/tony-jordan/)
- [Kate Bottley](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/kate-bottley/)
- [eclipse](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/eclipse/)
- [Good Friday](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/good-friday/)
- [glory](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/glory/)
- [David Shepherd](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/david-shepherd/)
- [surprise](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/surprise/)
- [Robert Song](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/robert-song/)
- [Christian Today](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/christian-today/)
- [Giles Fraser](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/giles-fraser/)
- [Diarmaid MacCulloch](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/diarmaid-macculloch/)
- [Eddie Arthur](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/eddie-arthur/)
- [Fulcrum](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/fulcrum/)
- [commandments](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/commandments/)
- [Charles Moore](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/charles-moore/)
- [Robert Gagnon](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/robert-gagnon/)
- [Jayne Ozanne](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/jayne-ozanne/)
- [reconciliation](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/reconciliation/)
- [Nick Palmer](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/nick-palmer/)
- [Paul Bayes](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/paul-bayes/)
- [corruption](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/corruption/)
- [Brian Draper](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/brian-draper/)
- [Michael Green](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/michael-green/)
- [Ashers Bakery](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/ashers-bakery/)
- [rights](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/rights/)
- [Bible Reading Fellowship](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/bible-reading-fellowship/)
- [consumption](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/consumption/)
- [Beth Rowland](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/beth-rowland/)
- [Operation Mobilisation](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/operation-mobilisation/)
- [Richard Moy](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/richard-moy/)
- [Matthew Vines](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/matthew-vines/)
- [Ken Wilson](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/ken-wilson/)
- [Shared Conversations](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/shared-conversations/)
- [Carl Trueman](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/carl-trueman/)
- [Richard Inwood](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/richard-inwood/)
- [John Sentamu](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/john-sentamu/)
- [Bullinger](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/bullinger/)
- [dispensationalism](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/dispensationalism/)
- [appearance](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/appearance/)
- [Joan Taylor](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/joan-taylor/)
- [perfection](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/perfection/)
- [David Aune](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/david-aune/)
- [source criticism](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/source-criticism/)
- [David Wenham](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/david-wenham/)
- [Michael Martin](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/michael-martin/)
- [poetry](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/poetry/)
- [Joel Green](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/joel-green/)
- [Michael Gorman](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/michael-gorman/)
- [disagreement](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/disagreement/)
- [Alan Spence](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/alan-spence/)
- [David Instone-Brewer](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/david-instone-brewer/)
- [Tyndale House](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/tyndale-house/)
- [New International Version](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/new-international-version/)
- [Anthony Fisher](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/anthony-fisher/)
- [theology](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/theology/)
- [Lee Abbey](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/lee-abbey/)
- [idolatry](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/idolatry/)
- [Amanda Digman](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/amanda-digman/)
- [Peter Graystone](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/peter-graystone/)
- [James Paice](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/james-paice/)
- [Pete Broadbent](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/pete-broadbent/)
- [David Pytches](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/david-pytches/)
- [social action](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/social-action/)
- [renewal](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/renewal/)
- [John Leach](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/john-leach/)
- [pastoral care](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/pastoral-care/)
- [wealth](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/wealth/)
- [David Horrell](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/david-horrell/)
- [John Hayward](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/john-hayward/)
- [Martyn Atkins](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/martyn-atkins/)
- [hypocrisy](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/hypocrisy/)
- [morality](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/morality/)
- [Steve Walton](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/steve-walton/)
- [Claire Smith](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/claire-smith/)
- [Rob Dalrymple](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/rob-dalrymple/)
- [Mark Goodacre](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/mark-goodacre/)
- [Rodney Stark](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/rodney-stark/)
- [Youth work](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/youth-work/)
- [Kevin Giles](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/kevin-giles/)
- [Mike Ovey](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/mike-ovey/)
- [subordination](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/subordination/)
- [Trinity](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/trinity/)
- [migration](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/migration/)
- [refugee](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/refugee/)
- [compassion](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/compassion/)
- [Andy Walton](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/andy-walton/)
- [Jeremy Moodey](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/jeremy-moodey/)
- [Alastair Roberts](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/alastair-roberts/)
- [Libby Purves](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/libby-purves/)
- [Frank Cranmer](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/frank-cranmer/)
- [Labour](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/labour/)
- [Jeremy Corbyn](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/jeremy-corbyn/)
- [Reyaad Khan](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/reyaad-khan/)
- [electoral reform](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/electoral-reform/)
- [Grove Books](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/grove-books/)
- [Christianity magazine](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/christianity-magazine/)
- [euthanasia](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/euthanasia/)
- [Michael Wenham](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/michael-wenham/)
- [Roger Olson](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/roger-olson/)
- [John McDonnell](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/john-mcdonnell/)
- [capitalism](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/capitalism/)
- [Thomas Piketty](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/thomas-piketty/)
- [Ruth Grayson](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/ruth-grayson/)
- [consumerism](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/consumerism/)
- [divorce](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/divorce/)
- [Mark 10](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/mark-10/)
- [grace](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/grace/)
- [transgender](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/transgender/)
- [London](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/london/)
- [Richard Chartres](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/richard-chartres/)
- [Bob Jackson](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/bob-jackson/)
- [Judas](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/judas/)
- [Mark Woods](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/mark-woods/)
- [John Goldingay](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/john-goldingay/)
- [Luke](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/luke/)
- [apocalyptic](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/apocalyptic/)
- [Steve Moyise](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/steve-moyise/)
- [Good Disagreement](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/good-disagreement/)
- [Tiffer Robinson](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/tiffer-robinson/)
- [rural](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/rural/)
- [Graham Tomlin](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/graham-tomlin/)
- [priesthood](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/priesthood/)
- [Mark Yarhouse](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/mark-yarhouse/)
- [maturity](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/maturity/)
- [John Grayston](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/john-grayston/)
- [review](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/review/)
- [John Proctor](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/john-proctor/)
- [Paula Gooder](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/paula-gooder/)
- [freedom](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/freedom/)
- [king](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/king/)
- [Son of Man](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/son-of-man/)
- [Lord of the Rings](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/lord-of-the-rings/)
- [James Bond](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/james-bond/)
- [David Gushee](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/david-gushee/)
- [Ron Sider](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/ron-sider/)
- [Glen Scrivener](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/glen-scrivener/)
- [David Robertson](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/david-robertson/)
- [C S Lewis](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/c-s-lewis/)
- [Daniel Kirk](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/daniel-kirk/)
- [liberal](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/liberal/)
- [Howard Marshall](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/howard-marshall/)
- [Jeremy Davies](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/jeremy-davies/)
- [Tim Dakin](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/tim-dakin/)
- [Jon Coutts](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/jon-coutts/)
- [Trinity Bristol](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/trinity-bristol/)
- [Nick Holtam](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/nick-holtam/)
- [David Walker](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/david-walker/)
- [birth narratives](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/birth-narratives/)
- [Rudolph the red-nosed reindeer](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/rudolph-the-red-nosed-reindeer/)
- [humour](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/humour/)
- [purity](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/purity/)
- [Virgin birth](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/virgin-birth/)
- [Mary](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/mary/)
- [annunciation](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/annunciation/)
- [Magnificat](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/magnificat/)
- [angels](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/angels/)
- [Martyn Percy](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/martyn-percy/)
- [John 1](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/john-1/)
- [Economist](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/economist/)
- [David Goodhew](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/david-goodhew/)
- [Anglican Communion](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/anglican-communion/)
- [Katie Edwards](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/katie-edwards/)
- [publishing](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/publishing/)
- [books](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/books/)
- [Edward Dowler](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/edward-dowler/)
- [inclusion](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/inclusion/)
- [Richard Burridge](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/richard-burridge/)
- [Andrea Williams](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/andrea-williams/)
- [publicity](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/publicity/)
- [difference](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/difference/)
- [loneliness](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/loneliness/)
- [ageing](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/ageing/)
- [Anglican](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/anglican/)
- [membership](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/membership/)
- [Electoral Roll](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/electoral-roll/)
- [family](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/family/)
- [Katherine Hill](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/katherine-hill/)
- [Eugene Peterson](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/eugene-peterson/)
- [Christianity Today](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/christianity-today/)
- [Mark Forster](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/mark-forster/)
- [questions](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/questions/)
- [growing](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/growing/)
- [silence](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/silence/)
- [Angus Ritchie](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/angus-ritchie/)
- [Michael Leyden](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/michael-leyden/)
- [Karl Barth](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/karl-barth/)
- [formation](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/formation/)
- [Renewal and Reform](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/renewal-and-reform/)
- [Boris Johnson](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/boris-johnson/)
- [Europe](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/europe/)
- [referendum](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/referendum/)
- [John Allister](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/john-allister/)
- [Numbers](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/numbers/)
- [wilderness](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/wilderness/)
- [sermon series](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/sermon-series/)
- [grumbling](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/grumbling/)
- [Church Times](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/church-times/)
- [David Watson](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/david-watson/)
- [Anthony Thiselton](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/anthony-thiselton/)
- [Gordon Kuhrt](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/gordon-kuhrt/)
- [usury](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/usury/)
- [Judaism](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/judaism/)
- [biblical theol](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/biblical-theol/)
- [Loveday Alexander](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/loveday-alexander/)
- [church history](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/church-history/)
- [Archbishops' Council](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/archbishops-council/)
- [Bridget Baguley](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/bridget-baguley/)
- [triumphal entry](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/triumphal-entry/)
- [Daily Prayer](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/daily-prayer/)
- [Passover](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/passover/)
- [biblical interpretation](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/biblical-interpretation/)
- [illustrations](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/illustrations/)
- [disclosure](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/disclosure/)
- [catechumenate](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/catechumenate/)
- [EU referendum](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/eu-referendum/)
- [establishment](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/establishment/)
- [religion](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/religion/)
- [Lucy Winkett](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/lucy-winkett/)
- [Andrew Brown](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/andrew-brown/)
- [Tim Stratford](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/tim-stratford/)
- [Christian Concern](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/christian-concern/)
- [Victoria Wasteney](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/victoria-wasteney/)
- [gardening](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/gardening/)
- [Tim Dieppe](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/tim-dieppe/)
- [healing](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/healing/)
- [healthcare](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/healthcare/)
- [John Pike](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/john-pike/)
- [NHS](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/nhs/)
- [Nicolaitans](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/nicolaitans/)
- [Southwell and Nottingham Diocese](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/southwell-and-nottingham-diocese/)
- [Paul Williams](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/paul-williams/)
- [empire](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/empire/)
- [Ascension](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/ascension/)
- [Simon Butler](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/simon-butler/)
- [management](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/management/)
- [Leicester City](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/leicester-city/)
- [David Ison](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/david-ison/)
- [Communion](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/communion/)
- [39 Articles](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/39-articles/)
- [jokes](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/jokes/)
- [Ruth Gledhill](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/ruth-gledhill/)
- [same-sex](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/same-sex/)
- [Living Out](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/living-out/)
- [True Freedom Trust](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/true-freedom-trust/)
- [Pentecost](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/pentecost/)
- [York Minster](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/york-minster/)
- [Vivenne Faull](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/vivenne-faull/)
- [Buddhism](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/buddhism/)
- [laity](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/laity/)
- [Donald Trump](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/donald-trump/)
- [Emma Sykes](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/emma-sykes/)
- [vulnerability](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/vulnerability/)
- [IVP](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/ivp/)
- [Gerald Bray](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/gerald-bray/)
- [Oliver O'Donovan](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/oliver-odonovan/)
- [blog](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/blog/)
- [Mark Earey](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/mark-earey/)
- [Oxford Diocese](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/oxford-diocese/)
- [Liverpool Diocese](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/liverpool-diocese/)
- [Colin Fletcher](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/colin-fletcher/)
- [Pete Sanlon](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/pete-sanlon/)
- [book review](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/book-review/)
- [Anna Strhan](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/anna-strhan/)
- [statistics](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/statistics/)
- [Julian Hubbard](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/julian-hubbard/)
- [Rosemary Power](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/rosemary-power/)
- [medicine](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/medicine/)
- [health](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/health/)
- [Diocese of Liverpool](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/diocese-of-liverpool/)
- [Jeffrey John](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/jeffrey-john/)
- [animals](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/animals/)
- [environment](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/environment/)
- [David Clough](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/david-clough/)
- [Westminster Abbey](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/westminster-abbey/)
- [Gucci](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/gucci/)
- [dialogue](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/dialogue/)
- [postmodernity](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/postmodernity/)
- [Jeremy Thomson](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/jeremy-thomson/)
- [Jonny Baker](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/jonny-baker/)
- [tragedy](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/tragedy/)
- [Mary Magdelene](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/mary-magdelene/)
- [Karen King](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/karen-king/)
- [Christian Askeland](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/christian-askeland/)
- [Peter Gunstone](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/peter-gunstone/)
- [clergy](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/clergy/)
- [deliverance](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/deliverance/)
- [gift](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/gift/)
- [Prodigal Son](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/prodigal-son/)
- [Tom Creedy](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/tom-creedy/)
- [Tanya Marlow](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/tanya-marlow/)
- [disability](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/disability/)
- [scapegoating](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/scapegoating/)
- [Simon Oliver](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/simon-oliver/)
- [liberalism](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/liberalism/)
- [theological tradition](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/theological-tradition/)
- [innocence](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/innocence/)
- [naivety](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/naivety/)
- [Manchester](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/manchester/)
- [Salisbury](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/salisbury/)
- [Peter Sanlon](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/peter-sanlon/)
- [Andrew Davison](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/andrew-davison/)
- [Fr Hamel](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/fr-hamel/)
- [martyrdom](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/martyrdom/)
- [Sally Hitchener](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/sally-hitchener/)
- [David](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/david/)
- [Sermon on the Mount](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/sermon-on-the-mount/)
- [Horatio Spafford](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/horatio-spafford/)
- [monologue](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/monologue/)
- [faithfulness](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/faithfulness/)
- [Simon Ponsonby](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/simon-ponsonby/)
- [Amy Carmichael](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/amy-carmichael/)
- [Olympics](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/olympics/)
- [sport](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/sport/)
- [competition](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/competition/)
- [ecology](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/ecology/)
- [Chrysostom](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/chrysostom/)
- [good news](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/good-news/)
- [gospel](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/gospel/)
- [Ric Thorpe](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/ric-thorpe/)
- [Harriet Sherwood](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/harriet-sherwood/)
- [Council of Jerusalem](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/council-of-jerusalem/)
- [James Newcome](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/james-newcome/)
- [failure](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/failure/)
- [secularism](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/secularism/)
- [Will Jones](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/will-jones/)
- [The Economist](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/the-economist/)
- [Craig Keener](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/craig-keener/)
- [Bishop of Grantham](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/bishop-of-grantham/)
- [Nick Chamberlain](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/nick-chamberlain/)
- [Lee Gatiss](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/lee-gatiss/)
- [Greg Wallace](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/greg-wallace/)
- [Michael Mosely](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/michael-mosely/)
- [ESV](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/esv/)
- [Sam Powell](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/sam-powell/)
- [Scot McKnight](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/scot-mcknight/)
- [Susan Foh](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/susan-foh/)
- [Stanley Porter](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/stanley-porter/)
- [Matthew 24](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/matthew-24/)
- [Antony Billington](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/antony-billington/)
- [Mark Allen Powell](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/mark-allen-powell/)
- [John Wimber](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/john-wimber/)
- [Vineyard](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/vineyard/)
- [Episcopal Church](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/episcopal-church/)
- [Living Church](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/living-church/)
- [clouds](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/clouds/)
- [context](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/context/)
- [mindfulness](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/mindfulness/)
- [Tim Stead](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/tim-stead/)
- [John 17](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/john-17/)
- [Roman Catholic](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/roman-catholic/)
- [Adrian Hilton](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/adrian-hilton/)
- [pastoral accommodation](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/pastoral-accommodation/)
- [young people](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/young-people/)
- [Amy Orr-Ewing](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/amy-orr-ewing/)
- [church growth](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/church-growth/)
- [millennials](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/millennials/)
- [Christian art](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/christian-art/)
- [Cranmer Hall](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/cranmer-hall/)
- [Wycliffe Hall](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/wycliffe-hall/)
- [theological education](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/theological-education/)
- [simplification](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/simplification/)
- [Judges](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/judges/)
- [Isabelle Hamley](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/isabelle-hamley/)
- [Human Rights Act](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/human-rights-act/)
- [Richard O'Dair](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/richard-odair/)
- [Michaelmas](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/michaelmas/)
- [integral mission](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/integral-mission/)
- [Helen Wordsworth](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/helen-wordsworth/)
- [abundance](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/abundance/)
- [life](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/life/)
- [John Inge](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/john-inge/)
- [scepticism](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/scepticism/)
- [Jenni Williams](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/jenni-williams/)
- [populism](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/populism/)
- [neo-liberalism](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/neo-liberalism/)
- [memory](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/memory/)
- [Alan Storkey](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/alan-storkey/)
- [ideology](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/ideology/)
- [US election](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/us-election/)
- [Martin Saunders](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/martin-saunders/)
- [Melody Briggs](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/melody-briggs/)
- [youth](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/youth/)
- [Francis Spufford](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/francis-spufford/)
- [emotion](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/emotion/)
- [GAFCON](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/gafcon/)
- [evangelicals](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/evangelicals/)
- [Synoptic problem](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/synoptic-problem/)
- [historical reliability](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/historical-reliability/)
- [Wayne Grudem](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/wayne-grudem/)
- [ETS](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/ets/)
- [pragmatics](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/pragmatics/)
- [church planting](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/church-planting/)
- [farming](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/farming/)
- [busyness](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/busyness/)
- [kindness](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/kindness/)
- [new year resolutions](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/new-year-resolutions/)
- [Jewish ethics](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/jewish-ethics/)
- [John the Baptist](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/john-the-baptist/)
- [Jill Saward](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/jill-saward/)
- [Elaine Storkey](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/elaine-storkey/)
- [tribute](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/tribute/)
- [intepretation](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/intepretation/)
- [common good](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/common-good/)
- [Glasgow](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/glasgow/)
- [Kevin Holdsworth](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/kevin-holdsworth/)
- [Davos](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/davos/)
- [Jon Kuhrt](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/jon-kuhrt/)
- [anthropology](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/anthropology/)
- [House of Bishops](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/house-of-bishops/)
- [Barry Morgan](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/barry-morgan/)
- [digital](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/digital/)
- [Liz Dumain](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/liz-dumain/)
- [Miranda Threlfall Holmes](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/miranda-threlfall-holmes/)
- [Bishop of London](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/bishop-of-london/)
- [Andy Rider](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/andy-rider/)
- [John Smyth](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/john-smyth/)
- [Mark Stibbe](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/mark-stibbe/)
- [Mark Meynell](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/mark-meynell/)
- [Andrew Watson](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/andrew-watson/)
- [Tim Naish](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/tim-naish/)
- [missio Dei](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/missio-dei/)
- [contextualisation](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/contextualisation/)
- [mental health](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/mental-health/)
- [Encounter With God](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/encounter-with-god/)
- [honesty](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/honesty/)
- [commandment](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/commandment/)
- [Philip Jenson](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/philip-jenson/)
- [Wolfhart Pannenberg](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/wolfhart-pannenberg/)
- [Transfiguration](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/transfiguration/)
- [exegesis](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/exegesis/)
- [Philip North](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/philip-north/)
- [Sheffield](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/sheffield/)
- [Mark Ireland](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/mark-ireland/)
- [Jerusalem](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/jerusalem/)
- [generosity](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/generosity/)
- [Ridley Hall](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/ridley-hall/)
- [classroom](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/classroom/)
- [participation](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/participation/)
- [Stephen Cottrell](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/stephen-cottrell/)
- [episcopacy](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/episcopacy/)
- [Messy Church](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/messy-church/)
- [Lucy Moore](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/lucy-moore/)
- [sacraments](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/sacraments/)
- [sacred](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/sacred/)
- [place](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/place/)
- [New Zealand](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/new-zealand/)
- [Jacob](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/jacob/)
- [temple](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/temple/)
- [Alister McGrath](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/alister-mcgrath/)
- [Martha](https://www.psephizo.com/tag/martha/)