The Bible Matters Podcast

Why does the church so often disappoint people? And what did Jesus actually intend it to be? In this classic address, John Stott asks whether Christians are merely harmless spectators in society or whether Jesus intended his followers to be a transformative force for good. Beginning with the memorable question, "Are Christians cabbages or kings?", he explores God's purpose for the church and its calling to be a distinct community in the world. Questions Answered in This Episode: Why is the church central to God's purpose for the world? Why do so many people become disillusioned with the church? What did Jesus mean when he called his followers "salt" and "light"? How should Christians be different from the culture around them? What does it mean to build your life on the rock rather than the sand? The Bible Matters Podcast is funded entirely by the generous donations of its listeners. If you would like to become a financial partner with us on this journey, you can give to the project on this link: https://linktr.ee/BibleMatters To contact us, email office@biblematters.org #BibleMatters #JohnStott #SermonOnTheMount #Church #ChristianLiving #SaltAndLight #KingdomOfGod #Christianity #Faith #Jesus

Christianity sounds like good news. Forgiveness. New life. Peace with God. So what's the catch? In this powerful talk, John Stott explores one of Jesus' most challenging teachings: the cost of discipleship. Speaking to large crowds who were eager to follow Him, Jesus stopped them and urged them to count the cost first. What does it mean to put Christ before relationships, ambitions and possessions? Why did Jesus make such radical demands? And why is He still worth following today? This episode examines the difference between admiration and discipleship, and why Jesus never concealed what following Him would require. The Bible Matters Podcast is funded entirely by the generous donations of its listeners. If you would like to become a financial partner with us on this journey, you can give to the project on this link: https://linktr.ee/BibleMatters To contact us, email office@biblematters.org #Christianity #JohnStott #Discipleship #JesusChrist #BibleTeaching #CountTheCost

Can people really change? Many believe that with enough effort, education, social reform, or self-discipline, human nature can be improved. But Jesus offered a far more radical answer. In His conversation with Nicodemus in John 3, He declared: “You must be born again.” In this message, we explore the difference between turning over a new leaf and receiving a new life. Looking closely at Jesus' words, we consider the nature of the new birth, its necessity, its effects, and how it becomes a reality in a person's life. In this episode: Can human nature really be changed? What are the signs and results of this new life? What do repentance and faith have to do with the new birth? How can a person receive the new life that Jesus offers? The Bible Matters Podcast is funded entirely by the generous donations of its listeners. If you would like to become a financial partner with us on this journey, you can give to the project on this link: https://linktr.ee/BibleMatters To contact us, email office@biblematters.org

Did Jesus really rise from the dead? In this classic talk, John Stott explores both the historical evidence for the resurrection and its life-changing significance. Examining the empty tomb, the appearances of the risen Jesus, and the dramatic emergence of the early church, Stott argues that the resurrection is not merely a Christian belief but the foundation upon which Christianity stands. More than an historical claim, the resurrection transforms how we understand the past, experience the present, and face the future. If Jesus truly rose from the dead, then it changes everything. In this episode: Did Jesus' tomb really end up empty? What happened to the body of Jesus? What difference does the resurrection make to life today? What does it mean to live in the power of the risen Christ? The Bible Matters Podcast is funded entirely by the generous donations of its listeners. If you would like to become a financial partner with us on this journey, you can give to the project on this link: https://linktr.ee/BibleMatters To contact us, email office@biblematters.org #JohnStott #Resurrection #JesusChrist #Christianity #BibleMatters

Why did Jesus die? For centuries, Christians have insisted that the cross stands at the very centre of the faith. But why? Couldn't God simply forgive sins without the death of Christ? In this historic lecture from Cambridge University in 1977, John Stott explores the meaning of the cross, the seriousness of sin, and the relationship between God's justice and God's love. This episode forms part of our series featuring recordings from Stott's final Cambridge University mission. Questions answered in this episode: Why did Jesus have to die? Why doesn't God simply forgive? How can God be both just and loving? What did Jesus think his death would achieve? The Bible Matters Podcast is funded entirely by the generous donations of its listeners. If you would like to become a financial partner with us on this journey, you can give to the project on this link: Support Bible Matters To contact us, email office@biblematters.org

In 1977, a packed hall in Cambridge gathered to hear one question explored: What is a human being? The speaker was a vicar from London named John Stott, and this would prove to be his final university mission.In this series of Bible Matters we'll be featuring the talks from this series, enhanced and restored for a new audience. Questions answered in this episode: - What was John Stott's preaching like? - What is a human being? - Is man good or evil? The Bible Matters Podcast is funded entirely by the generous donations of its listeners. If you would like to become a financial partner with us on this journey, you can give to the project on this link: https://linktr.ee/BibleMatters To contact us, email office@biblematters.org

How do we reach the next generation? In this episode of the Bible Matters Podcast, we speak with pastor and theologian Kevin DeYoung about how churches can faithfully answer that question. Drawing from his book The (Not-So-Secret) Secret to Reaching the Next Generation, Kevin challenges the idea that there is a hidden formula for effective ministry. Rather than chasing trends or trying to stay relevant, he makes the case for something both simpler and more demanding: faithful Christian living, rooted in Scripture and expressed through truth, love, and godly character. This is a deeply encouraging conversation for anyone involved in youth ministry, church leadership, or discipleship. Topics covered in this episode: Is there really a secret to reaching the next generation? Do you need to be “cool” to connect with young people? What does authentic Christian ministry actually look like? How do you truly love people in a resistant culture? Why does holiness matter for long-term impact? Are we underestimating what young people can handle? How should we teach truth and doctrine today? What makes mentoring relationships healthy and safe? What does it mean to “amaze people with God”? The Bible Matters Podcast is funded entirely by the generous donations of its listeners. If you would like to become a financial partner with us on this journey, you can give to the project on this link: https://linktr.ee/BibleMatters To contact us, email office@biblematters.org

What does the future hold for humanity—and where does Jesus fit into that story? In this bonus episode of Bible Matters, we bring you a second interview with Oxford mathematician and Christian apologist John Lennox. Together, we explore one of the defining questions of our time: what kind of future are we moving towards? From rapid advances in technology to the growing interest in “upgrading” humanity, many are asking whether science can ultimately solve our deepest problems—even death itself. But are these hopes realistic? And what vision of the future does the Bible offer? Drawing on his book 2084, John unpacks: The promise and pitfalls of modern technology What it really means to be human The dangers of trying to redefine humanity Why the Christian hope speaks powerfully into today’s questions Most importantly, we consider how the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ reshape the way we think about progress, identity, and our ultimate destiny. Whether you’re sceptical, curious, or already convinced, this conversation invites you to think more deeply about the future—and the hope that truly lasts. If you enjoyed this episode, please like, comment, and subscribe—it really helps us reach more people with faithful Bible teaching. The Bible Matters Podcast is funded entirely by the generous donations of its listeners. If you would like to become a financial partner with us on this journey, you can give to the project on this link: https://linktr.ee/BibleMatters To contact us, email office@biblematters.org

What hope does artificial intelligence really offer for the future of humanity? In this episode of the Bible Matters Podcast, Oxford mathematician John Lennox reflects on AI, transhumanism, and the growing belief that technology can solve humanity’s deepest problems. Drawing on science, philosophy, and the Bible, Lennox explains why technological progress cannot overcome death, sin, or the brokenness at the heart of human nature. Instead, he points to the hope of the Bible — a hope grounded not in machines or human enhancement, but in Jesus Christ, the resurrection, and the promise of new life. This wide‑ranging conversation explores: What artificial intelligence can and cannot do The ethical dangers of transhumanism Why science needs a Christian worldview to make sense Why death is more than a technical problem The lasting hope offered by Jesus and the resurrection The Bible Matters Podcast is funded entirely by the generous donations of its listeners. If you would like to become a financial partner with us on this journey, you can give to the project on this link: https://linktr.ee/BibleMatters To contact us, email office@biblematters.org #JohnLennox #ArtificialIntelligence #ChristianFaith #BibleHope #Transhumanism

In this episode Leo sat down with Rory Shiner, a Bible teacher based in Perth Australia. They discussed evangelism, and particularly how topics such as ghosts and demons can serve as a good intersection between discussions the world wants to have, and the answers Christianity offers. Questions answered in this episode: - What are demons? - Should Christians be afraid of ghosts? - What topics should I discuss in evangelism? The Bible Matters Podcast is funded entirely by the generous donations of its listeners. If you would like to become a financial partner with us on this journey, you can give to the project on this link: https://linktr.ee/BibleMatters To contact us, email office@biblematters.org

In this final episode of the series, we sat down with Wililam for one final time to discuss Genesis 10-11, the story of the tower of Babel, and the generations of Terah. We also discussed preaching Christ from Old Testament passages and considered correct and incorrect ways to do it. Questions answered in this episode: - What was the tower of Babel? - Why is scattering a sign of judgment? - Should we preach Christ from every passage? Got a question about Genesis? Send us a message and we’ll try and answer it in a video! The Bible Matters Podcast is funded entirely by the generous donations of its listeners. If you would like to become a financial partner with us on this journey, you can give to the project on this link: https://linktr.ee/BibleMatters To contact us, email office@biblematters.org

In this episode we feature a talk by William Taylor on Genesis 10, the story of the tower of Babel. In the talk, William considers mankind's striving to make a name for themselves, and how God will always oppose the proud. Questions answered in this episode: - What does the story of the tower of babel mean? - Why did God create languages? - Should we always seek unity? Got a question about Genesis? Send us a message and we’ll try and answer it in a video! The Bible Matters Podcast is funded entirely by the generous donations of its listeners. If you would like to become a financial partner with us on this journey, you can give to the project on this link: https://linktr.ee/BibleMatters To contact us, email office@biblematters.org

In today's episode we continued our conversation with Kev Murdoch, Bible teacher based in London. We spoke about Genesis 6-9 and the story of Noah, and Kev helped us to see how this chapter reveals the character of God as both judge and saviour. Questions answered in this episode: - What is the story of Noah about? - Why did God flood the earth? - How should we preach Genesis? Got a question about Genesis? Send us a message and we’ll try and answer it in a video! The Bible Matters Podcast is funded entirely by the generous donations of its listeners. If you would like to become a financial partner with us on this journey, you can give to the project on this link: https://linktr.ee/BibleMatters To contact us, email office@biblematters.org

In this episode we feature a talk by Kev Murdoch on Genesis 6:9-7:9. It's a talk which dwells on the flood narrative in Genesis, but also considers God's salvation amidst his judgment. Questions answered in this episode: - Why did God flood the world? - Was there a great flood? - What does the story of Noah mean? Got a question about Genesis? Send us a message and we’ll try and answer it in a video! The Bible Matters Podcast is funded entirely by the generous donations of its listeners. If you would like to become a financial partner with us on this journey, you can give to the project on this link: https://linktr.ee/BibleMatters To contact us, email office@biblematters.org

In this episode we sat with Rico Tice to discuss Christian leadership. Rico offered his thoughts and reflections on recent failures of leadership in the Christian world, as well as offering his advice for Christian leaders. Questions answered in this episode: - Why do Christian leaders fall? - What does the Bible say about leadership? - How do we keep ourselves accountable to God? Got a question about Genesis? Send us a message and we’ll try and answer it in a video! The Bible Matters Podcast is funded entirely by the generous donations of its listeners. If you would like to become a financial partner with us on this journey, you can give to the project on this link: https://linktr.ee/BibleMatters The music for today’s episode was written and produced by Leo Elbourne and Josh Stidwill. To contact us, email office@biblematters.org

In this episode we feature a talk by William Taylor on Genesis 6:1-8. The talk particularly dwells on the Bible's verdict on the human heart, a verdict which runs contrary to the world's belief that humanity is fundamentally good. Questions answered in this episode: - Is humanity fundamentally good? - What does God think about me? - Should I follow my heart? Got a question about Genesis? Send us a message and we’ll try and answer it in a video! The Bible Matters Podcast is funded entirely by the generous donations of its listeners. If you would like to become a financial partner with us on this journey, you can give to the project on this link: https://linktr.ee/BibleMatters To contact us, email office@biblematters.org

In today's episode, we spoke to Kev Murdoch, senior pastor of Euston Church in London. Kev spoke to us about Genesis 5:1-6:8 and considered the repeated refrain 'and he died', as well as some of the most obscure details in Genesis. Questions answered in this episode: - Is there a solution to death? - Who were the Nephilim? - Why did people in Genesis live such long lives? Got a question about Genesis? Send us a message and we’ll try and answer it in a video! T he Bible Matters Podcast is funded entirely by the generous donations of its listeners. If you would like to become a financial partner with us on this journey, you can give to the project on this link: https://linktr.ee/BibleMatters To contact us, email office@biblematters.org

In this episode we feature a talk by Kev Murdoch on Genesis 5. It's a talk which concerns the reign of death in a cursed world, as well as offering a glimmer of hope for those who walk with God. Questions answered in this episode: - Why do people die? - Is there anyway to avoid death? - What does the Bible say about death? Got a question about Genesis? Send us a message and we’ll try and answer it in a video! The Bible Matters Podcast is funded entirely by the generous donations of its listeners. If you would like to become a financial partner with us on this journey, you can give to the project on this link: https://linktr.ee/BibleMatters The music for today’s episode was written and produced by Leo Elbourne and Josh Stidwill. To contact us, email office@biblematters.org

In this episode we spoke to Bible teacher Nancy Guthrie. We discussed her work in teaching Biblical theology to others, as well as her thoughts on the Biblical theology of the offspring, which she believes unlocks so much of what's going on in the story of the Bible. Questions answered in this episode: - Who is the 'offspring' in Genesis? - Why do we have genealogies in the Bible? - What is Biblical theology? Got a question about Genesis? Send us a message and we’ll try and answer it in a video! The Bible Matters Podcast is funded entirely by the generous donations of its listeners. If you would like to become a financial partner with us on this journey, you can give to the project on this link: https://linktr.ee/BibleMatters The music for today’s episode was written and produced by Leo Elbourne and Josh Stidwill. To contact us, email office@biblematters.org

In this episode we feature a talk by Paul Williams on Genesis 4. It's a talk which considers humanity's efforts to return to paradise, having been expelled from the garden of Eden. Questions answered in this episode: - Why did God not accept Cain's sacrifice? - Has salvation always been by faith? - What is God's plan for humanity? Got a question about Genesis? Send us a message and we’ll try and answer it in a video! The Bible Matters Podcast is funded entirely by the generous donations of its listeners. If you would like to become a financial partner with us on this journey, you can give to the project on this link: https://linktr.ee/BibleMatters To contact us, email office@biblematters.org