For a book of more than half a million words, the Bible certainly loves its numbers. From recurring figures like 3, 7, 12 and 40 to the calculations hidden in some of its stories, numbers often carry meaning beyond simple counting. This comes as reports suggest some sums and times tables are particularly difficult for the brain to grasp. So, can we miss something in Scripture if numbers aren't our strong suit? Joining Esther was the Rev. Dr Ian Paul to unpack some of the Bible's most mystical numbers!
Tech trillionaire Elon Musk has claimed his neurotechnology company has “Jesus-level” technology, with the ability to heal blindness and paraplegia. But is there a line Christians should draw when it comes to biotech? What are the miracles to celebrate, and what could become a dystopian nightmare? Professor John Wyatt, a neonatologist and futurist, and Dr Calum Miller shared their views with Esther Higham.
In an increasingly divided political culture, do churches need to do more to help Christians think biblically about politics? As debate continues over what it means for the UK to be a “Christian nation”, Churches Together in England has launched Kingdom Over Nation, a new resource exploring Christian nationalism, political discipleship and civic engagement. With 1 Peter urging believers to honour governing authorities, how should Christians engage with politics today?
How do you respond when the news feels overwhelming? Constant headlines, social media arguments and a sense of division can leave us cynical, discouraged or tempted to disengage altogether. But is there a better way to live faithfully in a broken world? Rev Jago Wynne, Rector of Holy Trinity Clapham, has been reflecting on the life of William Wilberforce and the historic Clapham Sect. He joined Esther to share what their example can teach us about hope, perseverance and making a positive difference today.
From dyslexia-friendly Bibles to quiet spaces and alternative worship environments, positive changes are happening in the Church. So what progress has been made, what challenges remain, and how can greater inclusion benefit the whole Church? Esther spoke to author and advocate Sophie Killingly and Dr Zoe Strong, host of the Autism and Theology podcast, to share on how far we've come and how much further we need to go!
Meta is reportedly tracking employee activity to train AI, but what does this mean for the way we view work theologically? Chris Goswami joins Esther to discuss how Christians should respond to rapid workplace automation, intelligent systems, and the fears of civil unrest.
A Deloitte study found Gen Z and Millennials increasingly value work-life balance over career progression. For Christians, calls to humility, service and quiet faith can make ambition feel suspect. But is all ambition wrong? Author and leadership coach Dr Cindy Trimm joined Esther to discuss why younger generations are rethinking success, how Christians can balance humility with ambition, and the difference between lust and desire.
When is the right moment for Christians to stay quiet on political issues — and when is it time to speak out? Romans 13:1 calls believers to submit to governing authorities, yet Acts 5:29 makes it clear: “We must obey God rather than men.” So how do we discern between submission and resistance when it comes to political issues? Malcolm Duncan, Senior Pastor of Kensington Temple in London, joined Esther to unpack this theological tension.
On 21st May 1738, Charles Wesley experienced a powerful renewal of faith. Just days later, his brother John had a similar awakening—often seen as the spark that ignited the Methodist movement. But nearly 300 years on, born in controversy and resisted by the Church of England, does Methodism still carry that radical edge? Rev Dr Jennifer Smith, Superintendent at Wesley’s Chapel, joined Esther to explore what really happened to the brothers and why it still matters to all of us today.
Ghanaian preacher and theologian Mensa Otabil went viral for saying he would never say “God told me” from the pulpit. Dr Claire Williams, lecturer in Practical Theology at Regents Theological College, joined Esther to discuss his remarks and whether avoiding that language is wise or overly cautious. They also explored why it’s okay to have fun with the spiritual gift of prophecy!
Rev Tim May from KXC and Matt Parkes, who runs discipleship programmes for young Catholics, join Esther to explore what 'full fat faith' looks like and why young people are being drawn to the rigour of Orthodoxy and Catholicism. They discuss supernatural encounters happening outside the church, what “cracked iPhone” millennials can teach younger generations, and why the era of polite Anglicanism may be coming to an end.
A new film tells the story of an extraordinary German teenager who, inspired by his faith in Jesus, stood up to the Nazi regime during World War Two by writing and distributing anti-Hitler leaflets in Hamburg. Eventually caught and imprisoned, Helmut Hübener was executed in 1942 at just 17 years old. The new film Truth and Treason, from Angel Studios, tells his story. Esther spoke to director Matt Whitaker, who explained how it all began after meeting one of Helmut’s friends.
Did you know the days between Ascension Day and Pentecost are known in some traditions as the Novena — nine days of prayer and waiting? Rev Canon Jean Kerr, from the Thy Kingdom Come team, joined Esther to encourage Christians from all backgrounds to make the most of this special season of prayer.
Have you heard of peptides? They’re being hailed as the latest “miracle fix,” from skincare to weight-loss drugs like Ozempic and Mounjaro. But behind the hype lies a deeper issue: the growing pressure to perfect ourselves physically. In a culture obsessed with image and optimisation, where’s the line between healthy self-improvement and obsession? Arthur White — former world champion powerlifter and evangelist — joined Esther to discuss why it might be all too good to be true.
Winnie the Pooh first appeared in a Christmas Eve 1925 newspaper story by AA Milne; the first book followed in 1926. He has become one of the most recognisable children’s characters. In Matthew 18:3, Jesus says unless we become like little children, we cannot enter the kingdom of God. With that in mind, should we reflect more of Pooh’s humility, friendliness and playfulness? To explore The Gospel According to Winnie the Pooh, Peter Prothero from Equippers Church joins us.
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