Affinity Talks Gospel Podcast (Affinity)

Join Lizzie Harewood, Mel Lacy, and Rhiannon MacKintosh as they explore the beauty and challenges of complementarianism in the church, home, and wider society.

In this episode of Affinity Talks Gospel, host Lizzie Harewood is joined by Mel Lacy, Director of Growing Young Disciples, and Rhiannon MacKintosh, Mission Coordinator for the Free Church of Scotland. Together, they dive into the topic of complementarianism—a biblical perspective on the roles of men and women that is often misunderstood or controversial.

Drawing on Scripture, personal experience, and theological reflection, they discuss how complementarianism promotes human flourishing by embracing God’s design for distinct yet equal roles. The conversation also addresses the practical implications for churches, families, and society, highlighting the need for intentional teaching, leadership development, and the discipling of both men and women.

Whether you're exploring this topic for the first time or seeking deeper understanding, this episode invites you to consider how complementarianism reflects the beauty of God’s created order and contributes to a faithful witness in today’s world.

Find out more about:

• Growing Young Disciples - https://www.growingyoungdisciples.co.uk/
• Free Church of Scotland - https://freechurch.org/
• Affinity - https://www.affinity.org.uk/

In this episode of Affinity Talks Gospel, we are joined by Erin and Jonathan from Caring For Life, a charity which seeks to share the love of Jesus with at-risk and hurting people. We discuss Caring For Life’s mission to support marginalised individuals through housing, activities, and the gospel. This relationship building and practical support is built on an evangelical Christian foundation.

Graham Nicholls hosts this episode of Affinity Talks Gospel with guests Jonathan and Erin from Caring For Life (CFL). Erin works as the Benefits and Tenancies Team Manager at CFL, supporting people through benefit processes. Jonathan, CEO of CFL, is responsible for fulfilling the organisation's objectives in engaging with marginalised individuals and sharing the gospel.

Caring For Life aims to lead people to Jesus, provide meaningful activities, and offer stable housing to those at risk or vulnerable. They support individuals dealing with homelessness, mental health issues, addictions, and other challenges. The organisation also runs a working farm which provides therapeutic projects and engages individuals to find purpose and direction. Caring For Life also assists people in accessing benefits and supports them in finding employment opportunities where feasible.

Relationship building, meeting individuals where they are, and providing practical support like safe housing are vital to the charity’s goal of sharing the gospel with the marginalised. This is made explicit through the organisation’s strong Christian foundation. They engage in prayer, Bible studies, and spiritual conversations with beneficiaries. They also highlight the need for churches to be more proactive in ministering to individuals in need, including those with complex backgrounds and challenges.

We also touch on the difficulties of integrating individuals with diverse needs into church communities and the importance of seeing them through Christ's eyes. Caring For Life value prayers for effectiveness in their ministry, impactful witness, and continued provision to expand their work and bless more people in need.

For more information on Caring For Life visit their website and social media platforms. Alternatively, they would love to welcome you to an in-person visit: www.caringforlife.co.uk

Welcome to Affinity Talks Gospel, a new podcast delving into the heart of gospel ministry and church unity across the UK.

Join Graham Nicholls, Director of Affinity and local church pastor, along with Lizzie Harewood, Executive Officer at the Association of Christian Teachers, as they unveil stories of gospel transformation happening right now across the country.

As we meet with churches and para-church organisations, projects and Christian movements, each episode will inspire and inform you about the incredible work God is doing. You'll be encouraged as you hear about the gospel's impact, and you'll be equipped to pray more intelligently for various ministries and serve in new ways.

Subscribe to Affinity Talks Gospel Podcast wherever you get your podcasts and join the conversation today.

In this episode of Affinity Talks Gospel Podcast, we delve into the impactful work of London City Mission with Carl Knightly, the Director of Networks.

Carl offers insights into the organisation's mission to spread the gospel across every community in London. We explore the strategies employed to engage with the city's diverse populations, with a focus on building relationships and understanding cultural nuances.

Our discussion also covers London City Mission's approach to door-to-door evangelism, highlighting the importance of empathy and consistency in community outreach. Additionally, we address the challenges Christians may face in evangelism and the significance of overcoming self-awareness to share the message of hope effectively.

For further resources and support in your journey to spread hope to those in need, visit the London City Mission website: www.lcm.org.uk

In this episode of Affinity Talks Gospel, we talk to community paediatrician Julie Maxwell about the importance of teaching children biblical views on marriage and how to make wise choices. We discuss how to handle Relationships and Sex Education in schools and safeguard kids in today's culture.

Hosts Graham Nicholls and Lizzie Harewood welcome guest Julie Maxwell from Lovewise to the show. Together they speak about the importance of teaching children about marriage and making wise choices from a biblical perspective. We highlight Lovewise's resources for promoting healthy relationships and advise parents to engage actively in teaching their children about God's design for marriage. We also discussed challenges in navigating Relationships and Sex Education (RSE) guidance in schools, emphasising the need to protect children from harmful influences and instil biblical values amidst modern cultural pressures. The conversation concluded on the importance of prayer, a truth-centred narrative, and the proactive efforts we can make to support and safeguard children in today's complex world.

In this special episode of Affinity Talks Gospel Podcast, Lizzie Harewood is joined by guest co-host, Adam May and they interview Graham Nicholls about forming The Gospel Coalition UK. 

They discuss the background and conversations that led to this decision, focusing on the usefulness and gospel reach of the potentially new initiative. Graham talks about the importance of visible gospel unity, creating a resource hub for UK churches and Christians, and having a public voice for conservative evangelicals in the UK. They address concerns about cultural differences with The Gospel Coalition in the USA and the current evangelical landscape in the UK. Graham emphasises the need for constructive dialogue, transparency, and careful consideration in moving forward. 

Listeners are encouraged to share their feedback and engage in the conversation by emailing office@affinity.org.uk. The episode concludes with a prayer for discernment and unity in decision-making.

On this episode of Affinity Talks Gospel, we're joined by Simon Byrne from True Freedom Trust who discusses his personal journey as someone same-sex attracted and the support the church should provide to Christians in similar situations.

Affinity Talks Gospel Podcast hosts, Graham Nicholls and Lizzie Harewood are joined by Simon Byrne, the Teaching & Outreach Manager at True Freedom Trust (TFT). Simon shares his personal journey of being same-sex attracted and how TFT supports Christians with similar experiences. He discusses the charity’s focus on providing pastoral support, community, and resources for individuals navigating same-sex attraction within a Christian context. Simon highlights the importance of creating safe spaces within churches for open conversations about sexuality without fear of rejection or discrimination.

We speak about the challenges individuals face when disclosing their sexuality, the significance of maintaining a welcoming and inclusive church environment, and the need for ongoing support and understanding within Christian communities. Simon addresses the evolving conversations around sexuality, including newer concepts like queer theory, and emphasises the importance of engaging with these complex issues from a place of patience, understanding, and character.

We discuss the broader societal and philosophical implications of current discussions on sexuality, urging for a balanced and compassionate approach in addressing these topics within and outside the church. We highlight the biblical perspective on sexuality, the importance of upholding God's design for relationships, and the need for churches to actively include and support individuals regardless of their relationship status or orientation.

In conclusion, Simon shares how individuals can engage in meaningful conversations around sexuality, and strive for inclusivity and understanding within their communities. The episode concludes with a call for prayer for TFT's ministry, individuals navigating same-sex attraction, and the ongoing challenges and opportunities surrounding conversations on sexuality within Christian contexts.

Find out more about True Freedom Trust on their website: https://truefreedomtrust.co.uk/

In this episode of Affinity Talks Gospel we delve into the work of the Association of Christian Teachers (ACT) and the challenges faced by Christian educators with guest Lizzie Harewood, the Executive Officer of ACT.

We discuss ACT's mission to support Christian teachers through resources like articles, podcasts, and conferences, particularly highlighting the ‘Teaching Christianly’ podcast series. The conversation explores issues Christian teachers encounter in secularised education environments, emphasising the importance of support, prayer, and engagement from church leaders. A teacher's success in navigating challenging situations was shared as an example of positive influence, stressing the need to respect teachers' freedoms to express their beliefs.

For support and engagement, visit ACT’s website and learn more about the ministry.

On this episode of Affinity Talks Gospel, we're joined by Bill James from London Seminary. Bill emphasises the importance of robust theological training for pastors and urges young men to pursue higher education for impactful ministry. Bill also touched on the need for pastors to address contemporary cultural issues wisely.

Bill shares his journey from growing up in a Christian family to finding his faith and calling to ministry. He discusses his experiences at university, his involvement in the Christian Union, and the impact of Martyn Lloyd-Jones' ministry on him as a child. Bill also talks about his time working in industry before pursuing theological education with his wife at Toronto Baptist Seminary.

After returning to the UK, Bill served as a pastor for 26 years at a church in Leamington Spa, where he experienced the importance of women's involvement in church life. Bill shares his transition to becoming the principal of London Seminary in 2018 and emphasises the unique vision of London Seminary, founded by Martyn Lloyd-Jones, focusing on rigorous training for pastors led by experienced pastors.

We explore the current state of theological education, expressing concerns about a potential drift towards lower standards in training pastors within independency. Bill encourages young men to aim for higher education to deepen their theological knowledge and impact in ministry. He reflects on challenges within evangelical circles, including the need for pastors to address contemporary cultural issues with wisdom and depth.

In closing, Bill invites listeners to pray for a greater influx of men into ministry, for wisdom and power for pastors in training, and for perseverance and refreshment for those already in ministry. He highlights the importance of ongoing pastoral support and training through initiatives like the ‘Pastors Academy’ at London Seminary. We hope this episode provides valuable insights into the journey of a pastor and the significance of robust theological training for effective and impactful ministry.

Find out more about London Seminary by visiting: www.londonseminary.org

In this episode of Affinity Talks Gospel, we discuss with Steve Fouch from the Christian Medical Fellowship (CMF) how to empower health professionals to advocate for Jesus Christ, highlighting ethics, technology, and support.

Host Graham Nicholls is joined by Steve Fouch, Head of Communications at CMF, and they discuss the organisation's mission to equip health professionals to live and speak for Jesus Christ. We delve into the changing landscape of faith in the medical field over the years, ethical challenges faced by medical professionals, the impact of advanced medical technologies on decision-making, and the need for support and pastoral care for healthcare workers facing high-pressure environments. We touch on the importance of community support and prayer for health professionals in churches, emphasising the significance of individuals being witnesses for Christ in their workplace. The conversation highlights the complexities of modern healthcare, the demands on medical professionals, and the importance of understanding and supporting them in their roles.

In this episode of Affinity Talks Gospel, we explore Welsh Christianity with Jonathan Thomas, covering historical influences, Welsh language development, revivals, and shifts in the religious landscape towards unity and encountering God's power.

Hosts Graham Nicholls and Lizzie Harewood, are joined by Jonathan Thomas, a minister from Wales. Jonathan takes us on a captivating journey through the rich history of Welsh Christianity, spanning from Roman times to the Age of the Saints. We explore the influence of Normans on Welsh Christianity, the role of education, and the impact of pivotal figures like Saint David.

Our discussion delves into the development of the Welsh language, the influence of revivals, and the tensions between Welsh and non-Welsh Christians. Despite challenges faced by mainline denominations, there are signs of growth in independent churches, signalling a shift in the Welsh religious landscape. Throughout our dialogue, we emphasise the themes of unity, spiritual hunger, and the transformative power of encountering God, reflecting on the enduring narrative of faith and revival in Wales.

In this bonus episode of Affinity Talks Gospel Podcast, Graham Nicholls and Lizzie Harewood speak with James Mildred from CARE, a Christian charity which works closely with politics. We discuss the surprise announcement of a General Election happening on 4 July and we reflect on its implications for Christians. We’re encouraged to remember God's sovereignty in politics and the importance of Christian participation in the electoral process. We delve into voting ethics, party policies, and the impact of voting choices on communities. Emphasising informed decision-making, we explore media influence, local issues, and the value of selfless voting for the common good. Highlighting the significance of staying informed through resources like CARE’s Engage24 and assessing policies through biblical principles, we underscore the importance of thoughtful, faith-aligned political engagement.

Visit CARE’s exclusive election website, engaGE24.org.uk which is packed with content designed to help you engage well with this election.

On this episode of Affinity Talks Gospel, we're joined by Raymond Blair, a church history lecturer at the Reformed Theological College in Belfast, and Jamie Bambrick, a Youtuber and author on church, culture and history. We discuss the history of the church in Ireland, focusing on Saint Patrick's mission and the fusion of Roman Catholicism and Celtic traditions.

Affinity Talks Gospel Podcast host, Graham Nicholls, is joined by Raymond Blair and Jamie Bambrick to delve into the rich history of the church in Ireland. Raymond, drawing from his extensive experience as a church minister and church history lecturer, and Jamie, an associate pastor and YouTuber, both bring insight and expertise to the conversation.

We begin by highlighting the significance of studying church history, emphasising how God has preserved the church through challenges like secularism. We underscore the importance of learning from history to uncover blind spots and draw connections to contemporary issues in the Western world.

As we explore the early stages of Christianity in Ireland, the focus shifts to the legendary figure of Patrick, a former slave who underwent a religious conversion and felt compelled to spread the gospel in Ireland. The societal backdrop of Druid paganism and the limited infrastructure for Christianity at the time provide context to Patrick's mission.

We discuss Patrick's efforts to introduce the concept of the Trinitarian God to a polytheistic society. The significance of Patrick's mission in bringing the gospel to a society entrenched in darkness and paganism is highlighted, showcasing the enduring power of the gospel message throughout history.

The conversation then delves into pivotal milestones in the evolution of Christianity in Ireland, from Patrick's early preaching to the Druid lords to societal transformations that saw up to a hundred thousand people embracing faith during his ministry. The establishment of a network of churches and the eventual alignment with Rome shed light on the Irish church's journey.

Exploring the complexities of Celtic and Roman Catholic Christianity in Ireland, the discussion underscores Rome's growing ecclesiastical authority over the Irish church. Influential figures like the 12 apostles of Ireland and the monastic missionary movement's impact on Christianity's spread are examined, alongside the fusion of Irish Christianity with pagan customs and subsequent alignment with Rome.

Jamie Bambrick's YouTube channel can be found here: https://www.youtube.com/@jamie.bambrick

Raymond Blair is part of the Reformed Presbyterian Church of Ireland, more information can be found on their website: https://www.rpc.org/

In this episode of Affinity Talks Gospel, hosts Lizzie Harewood and Graham Nicholls welcome former MP Miriam Cates to discuss her journey from a career in genetics to a prominent role in British politics.

Miriam shares how her Christian faith has guided her political decisions, shaped her views on social issues, and informed her stance on education, gender ideology, and family values. She offers valuable insights into the importance of Christians engaging in public life and maintaining courage in the face of modern societal challenges.

Throughout the episode, Miriam emphasises the impact of her faith on her political career, advocating for a conservatism that prioritises family, community, and national identity. She critiques the liberal economic model, highlights the need for ideological clarity within the Conservative Party, and raises concerns about ideological influences in the education system – particularly within relationships and sex education. Miriam stresses the role of traditional values in child development and addresses declining birth rates, linking them to societal stability and a cultural shift in views on children.

Miriam also shares details of her new endeavours outside of Parliament, including roles in media and think tanks, where she continues to engage thoughtfully on pressing social issues.

James Mildred from CARE discusses Christianity and politics, focusing on justice and applying biblical principles in public engagement for transformative change.

For this episode of Affinity Talks Gospel, hosts Lizzie Harewood and Graham Nicholls are joined by guest James Mildred from CARE. James discusses his Christian background, CARE's mission, and the intertwining of Christianity and politics. The dialogue emphasises advocating for justice, human flourishing, and the importance of applying biblical principles in political engagement. Encouraging active participation in politics, the discussion highlights the transformative power of faith in public spheres.

Find out more about CARE by visiting their website: https://care.org.uk/

In this special episode of Affinity Talks Gospel Podcast, Lizzie Harewood is joined by guest co-host Adam May as they interview Graham Nicholls about the progress towards forming The Gospel Coalition UK.

Lizzie, Adam, and Graham delve into the purpose of creating a broader unity among gospel churches and Christian organisations without being exclusive. They highlight the benefits of partnering with The Gospel Coalitions around the world, such as convening power, international connections, and a theological emphasis that can enhance gospel work in the UK.

They address concerns about the need for a new platform like The Gospel Coalition when Affinity already exists and debate the cultural moment we are currently in, which is calling for deeper gospel unity. The conversation touches on the involvement of Anglicans in the initiative and the importance of transparency and accountability in the process. The discussion stresses the need to balance theological statements and membership structures to accommodate different perspectives.

Listeners are encouraged to engage in open dialogue to address objections and refine the proposal for The Gospel Coalition UK. The focus remains on serving the gospel of Jesus Christ, empowering UK churches, and providing resources aligned with the UK context to benefit local communities.

Listeners are encouraged to share their feedback and join the conversation by emailing office@affinity.org.uk. 

For more information, Affinity has published a Press Release which you can read here: https://www.affinity.org.uk/press/update-on-affinity-and-the-gospel-coalition-uk/. 

You can also watch a short interview with Tim Savage, referenced in this podcast, here: https://youtu.be/Td_l1v7LheA.

Hosts Graham Nicholls and Lizzie Harewood welcome Iver Martin, Principal and lecturer in Church History at Edinburgh Theological Seminary (ETS), to discuss the history of the church in Scotland. They explore the Reformation under leaders like John Knox, the struggles of early reformers, the establishment of Presbyterianism, and key events such as the disruption of 1843. The conversation also addresses modern Christian challenges in a secular society and the importance of engaging with contemporary issues, inspired by historical figures who championed both spiritual and social causes.

In this episode of Affinity Talks Gospel Podcast, we welcome Iver Martin. Iver shares insights from his extensive ministry experience, including his work with bilingual congregations in Aberdeen and Stornoway, and his journey to becoming Principal of ETS.

We delve into the rich history of the gospel in Scotland, highlighting the contributions of pivotal figures like St. Columba. The discussion explores the Reformation period, focusing on influential leaders such as John Knox and the persecution faced by reformers like George Wishart. The conversation also examines the impact of the European Reformation on Scotland and the intricate relationship between politics and religion during that time.

The episode covers the establishment of Presbyterianism in Scotland, with Iver illuminating significant events such as the disruption of 1843, when ministers protested state interference, leading to the formation of the Free Church of Scotland. The dialogue extends to the development of denominations, including the Baptist movement, and the challenges faced by modern Christians in an increasingly secular society.

As the discussion draws to a close, Iver reflects on how church history informs current challenges. He emphasises the need for the church to engage courageously with contemporary issues, advocating a balanced approach that integrates gospel preaching with societal reform. Drawing inspiration from historical figures who advanced both spiritual and social causes, Iver calls for a proactive stance in addressing today's obstacles to spreading the gospel and making a positive societal impact.

Find out more about Edinburgh Theological Seminary on their website: https://ets.ac.uk/

In this episode of Affinity Talks Gospel, we are joined by Phil Swann (Pastor in Wales) and Catherine Haddow (Chartered Psychologist and Founder of The Cornerstone) to discuss abuse of power by church leaders emphasising self-awareness, servant leadership, creating safe spaces for survivors, promoting humility, empathy, and understanding for healing and reconciliation within our church communities.

Host Graham Nicholls is joined by guests Phil Swann and Catherine Haddow to discuss the impact of abuse of power by church leaders. Phil Swann underlines the significance of self-awareness and servant-hearted leadership, emphasising creating a safe environment for trauma survivors. Catherine Haddow, drawing from psychology, stresses the importance of safety and slow healing processes. The conversation emphasises promoting humility, empathy, and compassion in church leadership to address trauma and foster healing and reconciliation within local church communities.

Find out more about the book Challenging Leaders by visiting: www.affinity.org.uk/challengingleaders

Find out more about The Cornerstone at: the-cornerstone.net

In this bonus episode of Affinity Talks Gospel Podcast, Lizzie Harewood and Adam May host an interview with Graham Nicholls on his new book, ‘Reasoning in the Public Square’, emphasising the importance of engaging with diverse audiences through street preaching, politics, and media. The conversation encourages innovative approaches to sharing the gospel and fostering connections within communities.

Graham shares his motivation behind the book – aiming to reach individuals not typically connected with through traditional evangelistic efforts. He stresses the importance of engaging with people outside established circles through avenues like street preaching, politics, and media, emphasising the need for simplicity in answers to common questions and practical ways to connect with others. The concept of ‘reasoning in the marketplace’ is explored, drawing inspiration from Paul's approach in engaging diverse audiences in Athens (Acts 17), highlighting the privilege of sharing the good news and addressing hesitancies in evangelism.

The discussion shifts to the relevance of street preaching in today's society, where Graham initially questioned its effectiveness but later realised its potential impact in reaching individuals of all backgrounds, particularly young people. Graham reflects on his own experiences with street conversations and door-to-door visits, emphasising the significance of consistent outreach efforts and personal connections. Strategies for overcoming awkwardness in engaging with strangers are discussed, underlining the evolving culture that provides more opportunities for such interactions.

The interview also delves into the topic of prayer and evangelism, with Graham sharing insights on people's openness to prayer in the face of societal pressures. The challenges evangelical churches face in engaging with the larger UK population are highlighted, along with strategies like asking engaging questions and utilising social media for broader outreach. The conversation stresses the importance of thoughtful and engaging content on social media to make a meaningful impact, cautioning against seeking fame over genuine engagement.

We explore the balance between self-promotion and genuine motivation to positively impact others, emphasising authenticity and intentionality in communication. They discuss the complexities of addressing difficult questions with humility and trust, acknowledging the limitations of knowledge while striving to communicate effectively. Practical advice on engaging in conversations about faith and apologetics is provided, along with details on accessing the book discussed in the interview and opportunities for further engagement with the content. Overall, the conversation encourages listeners to consider new approaches to sharing the gospel message and building meaningful connections with others in their communities, leveraging tools like social media to extend the reach of their faith.

More information about the book can be found here: https://www.affinity.org.uk/reasoning-book/