In this second episode of the new series of the Affinity Talks Gospel Podcast, hosts Graham Nicholls and Lizzie Harewood sit down with FIEC Director John Stevens about his journey into ministry, his work with the FIEC and the ever-changing relationship between Christianity and British culture. Read the transcript in full at affinity.org.uk/podcast/podcast-church-and-britains-changing-culture/

In this first episode of the new series of the Affinity Talks Gospel Podcast, hosts Graham Nicholls and Lizzie Harewood sit down with Alex Lyells. Alex is setting up a new ministry called Sanctifi, which aims to collaborate with churches across the United Kingdom to encourage financial sharing. You can find out more about this ministry at sanctifi.com

We discuss the critical role of Christian foster carers and adopters in addressing the growing need for child placement in the UK with Cornerstone UK.

In this episode of the Affinity Talks Gospel Podcast, hosts Graham Nicholls and Lizzie Harewood sit down with the Chief Executive of Cornerstone, the UK's only evangelical Christian fostering and adoption service.

They explore the current landscape of Christian fostering and adoption in the UK, highlighting the alarming rise in children in care – now over 100,000 – and the urgent need for compassionate, faith-driven foster carers and adopters. The discussion explores the challenges of the adoption process, the societal factors driving the UK adoption crisis, and the biblical call for Christians to care for the fatherless.

With a focus on recent trends, such as the rise in unaccompanied asylum-seeking minors and the decline in adoptions, this episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in fostering, adoption, or supporting vulnerable children. It is also a challenge for the UK church to embrace a fostering and adoption church culture, inspired by stories like that of a young woman who found Jesus through her adoptive family's love.

Discover how Cornerstone is making a difference and how Christians can get involved in this vital ministry by visiting their website: https://www.cornerstoneuk.org/.

Alex, CEO of Faith in Later Life, discusses the charity’s mission to inspire and equip Christians to reach, serve, and empower older people through evangelism, discipleship, and active ministry involvement.

In this engaging episode of Affinity Talks Gospel Podcast, host Graham welcomes Alex Huggins, the CEO of Faith in Later Life, a Christian charity dedicated to transforming how churches engage with older people. They dive into the urgent need to share the gospel with older generations, foster lifelong discipleship, and empower seniors to remain active disciple-makers. Alex highlights the charity’s work, including its network of 900 church champions, free resources on issues like dementia and loneliness, and training events to equip churches for senior ministry.

The conversation tackles ageism in society and churches, emphasising the biblical call to value people at every stage of life. With practical insights, such as the power of coffee mornings and care home outreach, this episode is a must-listen for church leaders, volunteers, and anyone passionate about intergenerational ministry. Discover how Faith in Later Life is reshaping attitudes toward ageing and empowering older Christians to thrive in their faith and service.

Find out more about Faith in Later Life on their website www.faithinlaterlife.org

Church historian Gerald Bray joins the Affinity Talks Gospel Podcast to discuss the profound impact of Christianity on England's history and its relevance to today's denominational challenges.

In this enlightening episode of the Affinity Talks Gospel Podcast, hosts Graham Nicholls and Lizzie Harewood sit down with renowned church historian Professor Gerald Bray to uncover the rich tapestry of Christianity in England. From the Roman Emperor Claudius' conquest to the seismic shifts of the Reformation led by figures like Martin Luther and Henry VIII, Bray traces the evolution of the English church through centuries of change. Dive into the stories of historical giants like the Venerable Bede and Thomas Cranmer, whose legacies shaped the Anglican tradition and the King James Bible – a unifying force across denominations.

The conversation also tackles contemporary issues, including the Church's response to modern moral debates like same-sex relationships, reflecting on how historical insights can guide unity and faith today. 

This episode explores the interplay of faith, identity, and ecumenism amidst recent trends toward denominational reconciliation and societal shifts. Whether you're a history buff, a theology enthusiast, or seeking to understand the Church's role in today's world, this discussion offers timeless wisdom and fresh perspectives.

Reverend Professor Gerald Bray (DLitt, University of Paris-Sorbonne) is Research Professor at Beeson Divinity School and Director of Research for the Latimer Trust. He is a prolific writer and has authored or edited numerous books, including The Doctrine of God and Biblical Interpretation: Past and Present.

In this special episode of the Affinity Talks Gospel podcast, Dr Thomas Brand and Dr Peter Sanlon discuss Tom’s book, delving into Trinitarian theology, the cry of dereliction, and the role of historical theology in shaping a deeper understanding of God.

Join host Graham Nicholls on a thought-provoking bonus episode of the Affinity Talks Gospel podcast, featuring Dr Thomas Brand, author of Intimately Forsaken: A Trinitarian Christology of the Cross, and Dr Peter Sanlon, minister and professor at Westminster Seminary UK. 

This special edition explores why evangelicals often misunderstand the Trinity, especially at the cross. We unpack Jesus' cry of dereliction – ‘My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?’ – and challenges the notion that the Trinity breaks under the weight of the cross. Tom shares insights from his book, revealing how scripture and historical theology, from the Nicene Creed to the Reformers, correct common evangelical errors and lead to deeper worship of God as Father, Son, and Spirit. Peter bridges academic theology with practical church life, offering pastors and believers tools to rethink Trinitarian doctrine in today's evolving faith landscape.

Whether you're grappling with penal substitutionary atonement, the doctrine of impassibility, or the cry of dereliction's meaning, this episode blends scholarly depth with heartfelt devotion, making it essential for evangelicals, theologians, and Christians seeking clarity on the Trinity, the cross, and historic orthodoxy.

To explore these themes further, get Tom Brand's Intimately Forsaken: A Trinitarian Christology of the Cross, a powerful resource for understanding the Trinity in evangelical theology. Order now with discount code 'Forsaken2025' for 20% off at https://link.springer.com/book/10.1007/978-3-031-71060-5

Regan King joins the Affinity Talks Gospel Podcast to explore the roots of toxic masculinity and present a biblical vision for redeemed manhood.

In this episode of the Affinity Talks Gospel Podcast, hosts Graham Nicholls and Lizzie Harewood sit down with Regan King, a pastor in central London, to tackle the pressing issue of toxic masculinity in today's culture. This timely discussion dives into the origins of harmful masculine stereotypes – exemplified by figures like Andrew Tate – and contrasts them with a biblical model of masculinity rooted in service, responsibility, and spiritual health. As young men increasingly grapple with identity crises amid cultural shifts, this episode unpacks how the church can offer a redemptive alternative to hyper-masculine role models and societal disillusionment. From addressing misogyny and pornography to encouraging men to step up as servant leaders, this conversation is packed with insights for parents, educators, and church leaders. Perfect for those searching for Christian perspectives on masculinity in 2025, this episode bridges current trends – like the rise of male influencers and the gender identity debate – with timeless biblical truth.

⚠️ Content Warning: This episode discusses sensitive topics related to pornography and its impact on individuals and society. While handled with care, parents may wish to listen first before playing it around younger children.

In this episode of Affinity Talks Gospel, Graham Nicholls and Lizzie Harewood are joined by Ian Henderson, Founder and CEO of the Naked Truth Project, a ministry committed to ‘opening eyes and freeing lives’ from the damaging effects of pornography. Ian shares his personal story and explains how the accessibility and nature of online pornography have changed dramatically in recent years, creating serious challenges for individuals and society.

The conversation explores the reality of porn addiction, its impact on relationships and mental health, and the Church’s role in offering hope and support. Ian provides practical advice for parents, pastors, and church leaders on how to engage with the issue, helping those who struggle and equipping the next generation to navigate a hyper-sexualised culture.

With insights from neuroscience, biblical teaching, and over a decade of ministry experience, this is an essential conversation for anyone seeking to understand the pervasive influence of pornography and how to respond with wisdom and compassion.

To access the free resources the Naked Truth Project provide visit: nakedtruthproject.com

In this episode of theAffinity Talks Gospel Podcast, Lizzie Harewood and Graham Nicholls explore the pressing issue of assisted suicide with guests from the Christian Medical Fellowship (CMF) – Dr Sarah Foot, a palliative medicine doctor, and Dr Susan Marriott, CMF's Head of Public Policy.

Together, they discuss the current legislative landscape, the theological and ethical concerns surrounding assisted suicide, and the far-reaching consequences of legalising it in the UK. What does it mean for vulnerable individuals, families, and healthcare professionals? How should Christians respond to this cultural shift? And how can we advocate for a society that truly values life?

With personal insights, professional experience, and biblical wisdom, this episode sheds light on a crucial debate and urges listeners to engage thoughtfully and prayerfully.

The Christian Medical Fellowship (CMF) is a community of 5,000 qualified and student members working in medicine, nursing, and midwifery across the British Isles. CMF unites and equips these Christian doctors, nurses, and midwives to live and speak for Jesus Christ. Find out more:https://www.cmf.org.uk/

In this episode of the Affinity Talks Gospel Podcast, Graham Nicholls is joined by Wayne Harris from Crossteach to explore the vital work of Christian outreach in schools.

Wayne shares his personal journey to faith during his school years and how it shaped his passion for youth ministry. Together, they discuss the privilege of engaging with students about Christianity in a school setting, the importance of partnerships with churches, and the barriers faced in this ministry, including resource limitations and cultural challenges. Listen in to learn why schools are a critical space for gospel work, how Crossteach equips local churches for this mission, and the value of presenting Christianity as a faith that is both true and good.

Crossteach is an educational charity which has been teaching about the Christian faith in schools since 2001. You can find out more about Crossteach on their website: www.crossteach.com