Andy Peck talks with the founder of One Rock International about how to lead like Jesus, especially when the Gospels don’t give us a detailed account of how he led. They look at what elements of Jesus leading were transferable and the all-important question of how to do it. The Profile is brought to you by Premier Christianity, the UK’s leading Christian magazine. Subscribe now from $1 per month

Norman Stone began his career in television as the youngest producer/director at the BBC. Moving from documentaries, and a pioneering children's show, into popular drama, Norman later achieved international success with the BAFTA award winning Shadowlands, a film about the love and loss experienced by C.S. Lewis through the death of his wife from cancer. In this in-depth interview with Tony Wilson, Norman unpacks his Christian faith and explains why he believes most Christian productions - with the notable exception of Angel Studio's The Chosen - are 'awful'. With several projects in the pipeline, Norman remains as passionate about his role as a "storyteller" as ever and confirms he has no plans to retire. "I can't even spell it," he says.

Andy Peck talks to the former Baptist Minister and Principal of London School of Theology about how the idea of leadership evolved in the New Testament era. They discuss how this translates to the very different size and style of church today and consider if leadership scandals might be avoided if we followed biblical principles. The Profile is brought to you by Premier Christianity, the UK's leading Christian magazine Subscribe now from $1/month

In this engaging interview, the principal of Spurgeon's College, Rev Prof Philip McCormack reflects on his work as a miltiary chaplain in Afghanistan, for which he received an MBE. Talking about the strong influence of faith from an early age he shares memories of attending Sunday school and the profound impact of witnessing the genuine faith and scriptural knowledge of his coworkers in the shipyard. His decision to join the Ulster Defence Regiment was driven by a desire to serve his community during the tumultuous times of the early 80s. Despite the dangers, he found professionalism and dedication among his fellow part-time soldiers. Commenitng on Christian ethics, including the Just War thoery, Philip explores how to reconcile Jesus' teachings on loving our neighbours and enemies with the reality of armed conflict. The role of Christian pacifism is also explored as a vital ethical viewpoint that challenges the necessity and conduct of war. In 2017, Philip became principal Spurgeon's College, which was founded in 1856 by well known preacher Charles H Spurgeon. Spurgeon's was awarded a triple gold in the Teaching Excellence Framework and is now emphasising engaging with diverse worldviews and ideas, seeing it as essential for character development and the cultivation of a reasoned, resilient faith. For that reason, the future of Spurgeon's College involves welcoming both Christian and non-Christian students, says Phillip. The Profile is brought to you by Premier Christianity magazine. For a half price subscription offer visit premierchristianity.com/podcast

Andy Peck talks with Mark Arnold, the Additional Needs Ministry Director for Urban Saints and the co-founder of the Additional Needs Alliance. They discus the neurodiversity language, how leaders can better lead those with additional needs and whether local churches are improving in their provision. The Profile is brought to you by Premier Christianity, the UK's leading Christian magazine Subscribe now from $1/month

The apologist and spoken word poet Preston Perry speaks to Emma Fowle about growing up in gangs, finding Christ and how God convicted him about his old approach to evangelism. Preston is the author of new book How to Tell the Truth: The story of how God saved me to win hearts – not just arguments (Hodder). You can also read this interview in Premier Christianity magazineThe Profile is brought to you by Premier Christianity. Subscribe for half price at premierchristianity.com/podcast]]>

Andy Peck talks with the executive director of the Railway Mission about his oversight of chaplains who serve across the mainland UK Rail Network. They discuss the current dispute between ASLEF and the Government, consider the challenges of fatalities that occur on average every 30 hours, and why the Mission’s work is such ‘good value for money’. The Profile is brought to you by Premier Christianity, the UK's leading Christian magazine Subscribe now from $1/month

The bestselling Christian author Sarah Bessey gives us a glimpse into her "evolving faith" in this week's edition of The Profile podcast. In reflecting on her spiritual journey thus far, Sarah explains how she's been able to hold onto faith during periods of turmoil, and why she retains a respect for a variety of church traditions and expressions. As she once wrote, "I’m an Anglican-influenced charismatic, postevangelical with a strong pull toward Anabaptist theology. Say that three times fast. I speak in tongues and I pray the hours. I dance and clap at church, but I also sit in silence and meditation. I place my hands on people when I pray for them, and I light candles. I follow the Church calendar observing Lent and Pentecost, Advent and ordinary time, but I worship in community with believers who do not - and likely never will - and I belong there." Sarah is the author of a number of books. Her most recent is entitled 'Field Notes for the Wilderness: Practices for an Evolving Faith'. The Profile is brought to you by Premier Christianity, the UK's leading Christian magazine. For a special half price subscription offer visit premierchristianity.com/podcast

Andy Peck talks with the youth and student co-ordinator at Kintsugi Hope, a charity that was set up to support those with mental and emotional health challenges. They look at why we are all on a spectrum when it comes to mental health and how we can wisely have conversations that can assist young people and students who are finding things especially challenging. The Profile is brought to you by Premier Christianity, the UK's leading Christian magazine Subscribe now from $1/month

On this week's episode, Emma Fowle speaks to the Christian writer and broadcaster Sheridan Voysey. The Pause for Thought contributor shares about giving up his career as a club DJ and how he and his wife dealt with infertility. He also tells his personal story of leaving a Christain cult and updates us on his research into loneliness and friendship. The Profile is brought to you by Premier Christianity. Subscribe now and receive Patrick Regan's new book FREE premierchristianity.com/subscribe

Andy Peck talks with the president of Westmont College, a Christian Liberal Arts College in Santa Barbara, California about his book: The Crucibles that Shape Us: navigating the defining challenges of leadership. They discuss the 7 crucibles he outlines, the tumultuous times faced by the College, and which of the crucibles might be especially apt for a church leader. The Profile is brought to you by Premier Christianity, the UK's leading Christian magazine Subscribe now from $1/month

Andy Peck talks with the author of ‘Mindful Formation: A Pathway to Spiritual Liberation’ about Christian mindfulness. What is the biblical backing for the idea? How might it function in a Christian leader’s life and be an antidote to extreme stress and anxiety? The Profile is brought to you by Premier Christianity, the UK's leading Christian magazine Subscribe now from $1/month

Andy Peck talks with Bishop Emma Ineson about her book, Ambition: What Jesus Said About Power, Success and Counting Stuff. They discuss when ambition is good and when it’s bad, how we serve before an ‘audience of one’ and why statistics can help the Church if used wisely and humbly. This was originally broadcast in 2019. The Profile is brought to you by Premier Christianity, the UK's leading Christian magazine Subscribe now from $1/month

Shaun is a West End veteran, having played Mufasa in the Lion King for over 16 years. He’s also a soul and RnB artist who has recorded six critically-acclaimed solo albums, and sung with stars including Beverley Knight, Angie Stone and Erykah Badu, as well as touring with Michael Ball and Alfie Boe. On today’s podcast, he shares his story of getting into the creative arts industry via his old school friend, Idris Elba, how his Christian faith keeps him grounded, and the importance of having a sure and certain identity in an ever changing world

Andy Peck talks with the co-authors of ‘The Hopeful Activist: discovering the vital change you were made to bring’ about developing biblically based understanding of initiating political and social change. Rich has co-led Tearfund's policy and advocacy work on plastics and waste. Rachel has worked in communications for an international Christian charity and is now Parish administrator at St Andrews’ Church in Islington, north London. How do we discover what God is calling us to do? The Profile is brought to you by Premier Christianity, the UK's leading Christian magazine Subscribe now from $1/month

As part of mental health awareness week, Sam Hailes talks to Patrick Regan, founder of Christian mental health charity Kintsugi Hope on mediating between Jamaican gang leaders, facing criticism from fellow Christians, and why the Bible is full of wisdom on mental health. You can also read this interview on premierchristianity.com The Profile is brought to you by Premier Christianity magazine. Visit premierchristianity.com/podcast for a HALF PRICE offer just for podcast listeners

Andy Peck speaks with Jamie Phear, former Professor of English in the US and now writing full time and helping women develop their calling. They discuss how calling may change over time and why having a regular retreat is so beneficial. The Profile is brought to you by Premier Christianity, the UK's leading Christian magazine Subscribe now from $1/month

Andy Peck chats with Stephen Dempster, Professor Emeritus of Religious Studies at Crandall University, New Brunswick, Canada about his recent book, Return of the Kingdom: a biblical theology of God’s Reign. They discuss how an understanding of the kingdom in the Bible informs the leadership of Christians today, look at why the Hebrew order of the Old Testament books is preferable, and how Jesus’ style leadership is the model for all believers. The Profile is brought to you by Premier Christianity, the UK's leading Christian magazine Subscribe now from $1/month

These 47 words changed Dr Aaron Edwards’ life and career, potentially forever: “Homosexuality is invading the Church. Evangelicals no longer see the severity of this [because] they’re busy apologising for their apparently barbaric homophobia, whether or not it’s true. This *is* a ‘Gospel issue’, by the way. If sin is no longer sin, we no longer need a Saviour.” That post on Twitter (now X) went viral within minutes, with many Christians calling for Dr Edwards to remove it and apologise. Among those who objected were his employers, a Methodist Bible college, who told the lecturer to take it down. When he refused, he was suspended and ultimately sacked. Is the case an example of "lefward drift" in evangelical institutions, as Dr Edwards alleges? Or is it simply a case of poor judgement and lack of wisdom on his part? In this interview, the former lecturer explains why he still stands by the tweet, and why he's decided to take Cliff College to employment tribunal. Cliff College were given sight of this interview prior to it airing, and offered an opportunity to respond to the claims made. They declined to comment, citing ongoing litigation. You can also read this interview here The Profile is brought to you by Premier Christianity. Subscribe now and receive Patrick Regan's new book FREE premierchristianity.com/subscribe

Andy Peck speaks with Matt Hatch, founder of Mosaic Church Leeds, and a leader of one of the congregations, about his book: Metamorphosis: Unlocking your spiritual transformation through healthy discipleship’. They talk about how his church approaches discipleship and the importance of the church leader remaining connected with people, and open to God’s direction if a culture of discipleship is to develop amid the many other claims on time and energy. The Profile is brought to you by Premier Christianity, the UK's leading Christian magazine Subscribe now from $1/month

Jonathan Evans, Baron Evans of Weardale has worked in espionage since the 1980s, eventually becoming the director general of MI5 (2007-13). In this interview with Tony Wilson, we hear about Lord Evans' Christian faith and how it has sustained him during difficult moments. A crossbench peer since 2014, Lord Evans also comments on what threats the UK might be facing today, and speaks about standards in public life. The Profile is brought to you by Premier Christianity. Subscribe for more interviews, news and analysis at premierchristianity.com/subscribe

Andy Peck speaks with Marcus Culverwell, head teacher of Reigate St Mary’s Preparatory and Choir School about his call to lead a school. They discuss how much influence a school might have on a child, and consider some themes from his book, ‘Would God go shopping’ and how he is able to help young people consider the wider world and their place in it. The Profile is brought to you by Premier Christianity, the UK's leading Christian magazine Subscribe now from $1/month

The Pulitzer Prize-winning author Marilynne Robinson believes she’s proof that the world isn’t as antagonistic towards Christians as many assume. In this in depth conversation with Premier Christianity's Sam Hailes, she explains her love for Calvinism, why she's written a commentary (of sorts) on the book of Genesis and reveals how her theology has changed over time.

Andy Peck speaks with two men committed to Christians bringing the whole of their lives into the workplace, including their faith. Dave Law is an analytical chemist with Thames Water and Julian Shellard a lawyer with a global pharmaceutical company. They talk about how recent legislation actually encourages Christians to form Christian groups in their workplace and why scare stories about faith challenges at work are by no means the norm. The Profile is brought to you by Premier Christianity, the UK's leading Christian magazine Subscribe now from $1/month I also emailed last week to ask that adjustments be made to the last two shows. I see they are still the same. I thought Marcus had said we can now adjust more easily? https://www.premier.plus/the-profile/podcasts/episodes

Andy Peck chats with Paul Friend, CEO of SWYM (South West Youth Ministries) about his book, ‘Fierce Humility: leading in the way of Jesus’. They discuss why Paul wrote the book, which elements of humility are toughest to explore and why humility stands against the self-promotion seemingly required in our social media age. The Profile is brought to you by Premier Christianity, the UK's leading Christian magazine Subscribe now from $1/month

Andy Peck chats with Simon Holley, the senior leader of Kings Arms Church Bedford and a leader of the Catalyst strategy team with Newfrontiers. They reflect on whether he still stands by his book, ‘Sustainable Power: creating a healthy culture of the supernatural in the church today’, ten years on; how he has stayed motivated working in the same church; and his new coaching ministry: ‘therawleader.com’ The Profile is brought to you by Premier Christianity, the UK's leading Christian magazine Subscribe now from $1/month

"Low grade, slow grade, slow cooked church changes you in ways you can't imagine." That's according to experienced church planter, author and cultural commentator Stephen McAlpine. In this interview with Premier Christianity's Sam Hailes, Stephen argues that regular, habitual church attendance is vital. "If you say, 'we'll go to this service, but next week we won't go, and the week after that we have a sporting event...' don't be surprised that your teenagers don't end up Christian." Born in Belfast, Stephen has experience ministering across many nations including Northern Ireland, England and Australia, where he is now based. He's the author of Being the bad guys: How to live for Jesus in a world that says you shouldn't and most recently Futureproof: How to live for Jesus in a culture that keeps on changing (The Good Book Company). Much of Stephen's work is designed to help Christians in the West share the good news with a world that is increasingly antagonistic towards faith. The appropriate response to Christians being perceived as the 'bad guys', is not for us to become angry or dismayed, argues Stephen. "Let's own our stuff. We have divergent views from the mainstream culture about what human flourishing is about, and what sex and gender are about." It may be uncomfortable, but we're called to stand firm. After all the Gospel is "suffer now, glory later", he says. "You can't get away from that," he adds. The Profile is brought to you by Premier Christianity magazine. Enter 'PODCAST' at checkout for a half price offer premierchristianity.com/subscribe

Andy Peck talks with Christian Szurko, the National Co-ordinator, DialogCentre UK who has been serving victims of spiritual abuse for over 50 years. They talk about why Christians in leadership fall into temptation, how we can guard ourselves and how we might help someone who has been spiritually abused? The Profile is brought to you by Premier Christianity, the UK's leading Christian magazine Subscribe now from $1/month

Premier Woman Alive's deputy editor Jemimah Wright engages in a profound conversation with renowned author, radio host, and disability rights advocate Joni Eareckson Tada. Joni discusses her journey of living with quadriplegia for almost 57 years and how she's learned to avoid bitterness and instead rest in God's sovereignty. Trusting in God's plan brings a sense of calm and relief from anxiety, she says, emphasising the importance of trusting in God's ability to transform suffering into hope. She shares insights into her life's work, the importance of stewarding influences faithfully, and offers advice for single individuals. The discussion also navigates complex cultural issues facing Christians today, encouraging a return to biblical guidance. Despite battling cancer twice and having covid-19 her faith is stronger than ever. This is a must-listen episode filled with wisdom and inspiration! For more from Premier Woman Alive, visit womanalive.co.uk

Andy Peck talks with Yvonne Tulloch, the founder and CEO of the charity At a Loss. She is a former Canon in the Church of England, and served as the Bishop’s Officer for clergy bereavement for Southwark, who faced the challenge of the very sudden death of her husband. They discuss how the charity was born and why caring for the bereaved is becoming an essential ministry in many local churches. The Profile is brought to you by Premier Christianity, the UK's leading Christian magazine Subscribe now from $1/month

Debra Green OBE was planting churches, preaching and pioneering social action work when few female leaders were moving in those spaces. Ahead of Mother’s Day, she’s joined by son, Josh Green, who leads youth ministry for 24-7 Prayer, to discuss prodigal sons, working in ministry and what happened when the police arrived on their doorstep. You can also read this interview in Premier Christianity magazine The Profile is brought to you by Premier Christianity. Subscribe for half price at premierchristianity.com/podcast

Andy Peck talks to evangelist Scott McNamara, director of evangelism at Nations Church in Orlando, Florida about the tool, ‘Jesus at the Door’ which he developed in his time as evangelist at Causeway Coast Vineyard Church, Coleraine, Northern Ireland. How was the tool birthed and used and how can local churches be ‘reapers’ as well as ‘sowers’? The Profile is brought to you by Premier Christianity, the UK's leading Christian magazine Subscribe now from $1/month

The leader of Prayer Storm speaks to Premier Christianity's Emma Fowle about wimpish prayers, speaking in tongues with his ten-year-old and the incomparable joy of learning to commune with God. You can also read this interview in Premier Christianity magazine. Subscribe for half price at premierchristianity.com/podcast

Andy Peck talks to Chris Curtis of Youthscape and Nathan Mlandin of Theos, both part of the AI Christian Partnership (www.aichristian.org) about the possible impact of AI: in ministry to young people; the work place; and our personal privacy. The Profile is brought to you by Premier Christianity, the UK's leading Christian magazine Subscribe now from $1/month

In this episode of The Profile, the Grammy-nominated Australian songwriter Mia Fieldes (Hillsong, Bethel, The Belonging Co) shares her incredible journey of faith and resilience with Woman Alive's deputy editor Jemimah Wright. Despite facing significant health challenges and fertility issues, including the removal of one of her ovaries, Mia held steadfast in her belief in God's promises that she would be blessed with a child. From grappling with multiple surgeries to overcoming the odds to conceive naturally, Mia explains how she's been able to face life's challenges with hope and gratitude. As a child, Mia found solace in writing letters to God every night expressing her faith and trust in him (and she still has boxes of those letters!). She met her husband through Hillsong Church in Sydney, before moving to Nashville where she now resides. She also recounts how she prayed in faith for a husband and then waited, trusting in God's promises. Her experience of receiving prophetic words and signs, and even dreams from friends about her future marriage, helped her to keep believing. Today, she characterises her journey as being one marked by miracles and an unwavering belief in God's goodness. In every hard thing, there's an opportunity for an upgrade, she says. Read the full story in an upcoming issue of Premier Woman Alive magazine. See the latest subscription offers at womanalive.co.uk The Profile is brought to you by Premier Christianity magazine. Subscribe for half price at premierchristianity.com/podcast

Andy Peck talks to Alun Leppitt, the European regional representative for Global Awakening- a network of churches which came out of a move of God in Toronto in 1994 – known as ‘the Toronto Blessing’. They look at how as a pastor of a church in Southampton, he was thrust into a wider ministry, what an ‘apostolic network’ is, and why he values corporate worship so highly. The Profile is brought to you by Premier Christianity, the UK's leading Christian magazine Subscribe now from $1/month

Robert James Rogers, Baron Lisvane, is a crossbench peer and former Clerk of the House of Commons (2011-2014). He's also chairman of the Royal College of Organists and, married to a Church of England priest, has a deep love for church music. In this interview with Tony Wilson, Lord Lisvane explains the inner workings of the houses of parliament, recalls how traditional chapel services were central to his life as a youngster and recounts a memorable lunch with the late Queen Elizabeth II. The Profile is brought to you by Premier Christianity, the UK's leading Christian magazine. Subscribe for a reduced rate at premierchristianity.com/podcast

Andy Peck speaks with Tyler Prieb, a New York-based pastor and missiologist who is the founder of Missional Labs - an interdisciplinary community that works to launch new, imaginative ministry ventures in our modern missional context. They talk about how they collaborate with missional projects over several years to complement work done in local churches, how they work in the UK, and how he finances his work The Profile is brought to you by Premier Christianity, the UK's leading Christian magazine Subscribe now from $1/month

Few Christian politicians of our generation have dared to voice orthodox views on marriage, family and sex. When they have, there’s been a fierce backlash from their colleagues and the media, as former Liberal Democrat leader Tim Farron MP experienced. Miriam Cates MP, however, is not only Conservative in party but conservative in policy – and not ashamed to say so. She has spoken out against radical transgender ideology, extreme sex education in schools and is in favour of the traditional family. This has been met with some intense opposition that has, at times, bordered on abuse. So perhaps it's no surprise that this relative newcomer to politics tells Heather Tomlinson that “courage” is needed. This interview was recorded at the Alliance for Responsible Citizenship (ARC) and is available to read now at premierchristianity.com and in the print magazine The Profile is brought to you by Premier Christianity magazine. Enter 'PROFILEPOD' at checkout for a special half price subscription

Andy Peck talks Steve McAlpine about his book, 'Future Proof: How to live for Jesus in a culture that keeps on changing'. Steve is a former pastor, and now consultant and blogger in Perth Australia, but is still proud of his Northern Ireland background. They discuss what may be around the corner for Christians in leadership, including challenges to faith and how we stay in touch with culture for conversation and proclamation. The Profile is brought to you by Premier Christianity, the UK's leading Christian magazine Subscribe now from $1/month

What happens when a Bible teacher with a global ministry loses her passion for scripture? That's just one of several thorny questions Jennie Allen has had to grapple with in recent years (the answer to that particular conundrum was found in a combination of "loosening up a little", prayer apps and watching The Chosen. She's now back to fine form). Jennie Allen is open, relaxed and unguarded during this interview, even when getting into another thorny issue of why an international Bible teacher can’t preach in her own church on a Sunday morning and, more importantly, why she’s OK with this. Now in her mid-40s, she seems confident in her calling and as enthusiastic as ever about communicating the life-changing hope of the gospel. Her books, which increasingly lean into popular psychology alongside biblical truth, seem to have helped her own discipleship as much as the audience she is speaking to. She's passionate about helping individuals grow in faith, especially the next generation. And it is the knowledge that she’ll be happy doing this in her living room, long after the platform she currently enjoys is no longer available, that has allowed her to let go of the perfectionism that once caused her such anxiety. You can also read this interview in Premier Christianity magazine The Profile is brought to you by Premier Christianity magazine. Enter 'PROFILEPOD' at checkout for a special half price subscription

Andy Peck talks with Deepa Tharmaraj, a commercial and technology lawyer who runs ‘a not for profit’ charity WELL: Women Empowered Life and Leadership They discuss why women are still facing challenges in leading in many sectors, whether these vary from nation to nation and what kind of support is available for women looking to use their leadership gifts in the commercial and non-profit worlds. The Profile is brought to you by Premier Christianity, the UK's leading Christian magazine Subscribe now from $1/month

Evangelists Carl Beech and Steve Legg have been friends for more than 20 years. They have pioneered ministries and travelled the world telling people about Christ. Last year Carl was diagnosed with young onset Parkinson’s disease, while Steve was told the cancer he’s been battling meant he had just five months to live. They discuss chronic illness and terminal diagnoses, their different attitudes to healing and facing the future – whatever it holds – with joy in this special conversation with Premier Christianity's Emma Fowle. You can also read their conversation on premierchristianity.com Subscribe to the UK's leading Christian magazine for HALF PRICE when you enter 'PROFILEPOD' at check out premierchristianity.com/subscribe

Andy welcomes back Jo Plummer, a founding member of the Business as Mission Resource Team, developing business as mission strategy and resources for the BAM community. They discuss the innovative ways that business are being established in two third world’s communities, while sharing the love of God. This included how a 13-year-old was rescued from a slum area and is now helping his peers to escape too. The Profile is brought to you by Premier Christianity, the UK's leading Christian magazine Subscribe now from $1/month

How did an atheist professor who wrote articles against evangelical Christians become one? In this week's episode Sam Hailes sits down with Rosaria Butterfield who describes her journey from being a liberal sceptic to becoming a Christian. Rather than a clean or easy process, she describes her conversion as "messy and dangerous." A significant part of Rosaria's journey involves her sexuality. From a young age, she found herself more drawn to women than men. However, it wasn't until the age of 28 that she came out as a lesbian to her friends. Her journey towards Christianity began when she decided to explore the religious right's views and beliefs regarding homosexuality. She wrote an article criticising them for infringing upon the rights of consenting adults. This article gained much attention and resulted in a letter from a pastor named Ken Smith who invited her to his home for a discussion. She accepted the invitation, seeing it as an opportunity to better understand evangelical Christianity for her research. Little did she know that this interaction would play a crucial role in her conversion, as she suddenly found herself absorbed in Bible study for hours each day. Rosaria is now an author and speaker whose books include The Secret Thoughts of an Unlikely Convert, The Gospel Comes with a House Key and most recently Five Lies of Our Anti-Christian Age. The Profile is brought to you by Premier Christianity magazine. Subscribe to receive full access in 2024 for just £24.

Andy talks with Richard Eason who after an early career in IT and technology became involved ‘social action’ including setting up YMCA Ashford, Kent, being chair of Ashford Together, the social action charity of Churches Together in Ashford, and serving as part of the leadership of Pneuma Church, Ashford. They discuss whether social action means missing out on sharing ‘the Gospel’? They also discuss a leadership conference in the United States, where the host church has engaged in some pioneering work in seeing transformation in its community. How should we see our work in the community? The Profile is brought to you by Premier Christianity, the UK's leading Christian magazine Subscribe now from $1/month

Pastor Agu has planted one of the biggest churches in the UK. If we want to see revival come, it’s time we took prayer and fasting seriously, but not religiously, says the Jesus House pastor in this interview with Heather Tomlinson. Recorded at the Alliance for Responsible Citizenship (ARC), a conference associated with Jordan B Peterson, Pastor Agu comments on broader societal issues, as well as sharing his own testimony and insights from his ministry. You can also read this interview here The Profile is brought to you by Premier Christianity. Subscribe for just £24 in 2024 here

Andy speaks with Phil Warren Rector of St. Lawrence Parish Church and St. Matthew’s Glass Church, Jersey to discuss about the challenges of building faith, family and community on the island. They look at how tourists to the ‘Glass Church’ have met with God and how he responded when his plans to develop church premises hit the local news, with many complaining at the prospect of change. The Profile is brought to you by Premier Christianity, the UK's leading Christian magazine Subscribe now from $1/month

Scottish-born priest Fr James Mallon wants to unlock 'radical change' in your parish. If we want our churches to grow, evangelism must be put back in the centre, and we must rely on the Holy Spirit to revive us again, he says. It's something he's learned from personal experience. As a child, Fr James assumed that God was distant. It was only when he had an encounter with the Holy Spirit that everything changed and his faith came alive. In this in-depth interview with Tony Wilson, Fr James tells the full story. Now ministering in Nova Scotia, he also unpacks his desire to see every church move "from maintenance to mission". That's the goal of Divine Renovation, the ministry he founded which now works with hundreds of churches across the world. The Profile is brought to you by Premier Christianity. Subscribe for £24 in 2024 here.

Andy Peck talks with Emmanuel Mbakwe about ‘bi-vocational ministry’. Emmanuel has served as national leader of the Apostolic Church UK London as well as a consultant-leader in a wide variety of industries, sectors and organisations. He explains that he is really ‘uni-vocational’ – serving in both sectors as service to God and looks at how he is able to manage the workloads and challenges of the two sectors. What would he say to someone considering such a broad calling? The Profile is brought to you by Premier Christianity, the UK's leading Christian magazine Subscribe now from $1/month

Joshua Youssef has dedicated his life to serving the persecuted Church around the world. In this in-depth interview with Premier Christianity's Sam Hailes, Joshua shares stories of Muslims in the Middle East who have found faith through dreams and visions. Joshua grew up in a strong Christian family (his father, Dr Michael Yousef, is the founder of Leading the Way and a previous guest on this show). But Joshua tried to "run away" from God as a student, before his friends brush with near-death brought him back to faith. The CEO and President of Help the Persecuted explains how the ministry is able to track and verify genuine conversions to Christianity, gives his view on whether Christians in the West are persecuted, and shares honestly his struggle with "the idol of comfort and safety" which he says is a prevalent temptation for Christians in the West. The Profile is brought to you by Premier Christianity magazine. Subscribe to enjoy more interviews, features, columnists and reviews at premierchristianity.com/subscribe

The world-renowned tenor Russell Watson never planned to be a recording artist, instead dreaming of football stardom as a young boy. “It was daydreams really. I was never any good,” he confesses. His rise to fame saw him move from imitating crooners in backstreet pubs to performing for the Pope, the late Queen Elizabeth II and two US presidents. Along the way, he's sold more than 7 million albums, won multiple BRIT awards and worked with musical legends including Paul McCartney and Luciano Pavarotti. Yet at the height of his fame, he came close to death. Brain tumours caused the then 40-year-old to suffer a brain hemorrhage while lying in bed one night, resulting in emergency surgery. These events rocked his world – and cemented his faith. He tells Premier Christianity's Emma Fowle the full story.

2023...What a year it's been! We've heard from Boyzone's Shane Lynch, Bridgerton's Adjoa Andoh, Newfrontiers founder Terry Virgo and many more on The Profile podcast. But who would you like us to interview in 2024? In this brief message, our presenter and producer Sam Hailes explains how you can get in touch and recommend future guests.

Andy Peck welcomes John Wyatt (consultant and academic researcher) and Chris Goswami (strategic consultant, chaplain and pastor), men involved in the AI Christian Partnership to discuss what AI is and how it might affect us in the world of work education and church. What are the ethical implications and how can Christians ‘redeem’ this technology and utlise it for good ends? The Profile is brought to you by Premier Christianity, the UK's leading Christian magazine Subscribe now from $1/month

Andy Peck talks to Richard Gamble, the founder of the Eternal Wall of Answered Prayer, about his vision to see a wall with one million answered prayers that will stand as a monument to God’s faithfulness in a land where he is too often forgotten. They discuss how he acted on what God had birthed within him and the challenges he has faced in bringing it to the point where the vision will soon become a reality. The Profile is brought to you by Premier Christianity, the UK's leading Christian magazine Subscribe now from $1/month

Fergus Butler-Gallie: Confessions of a young priest God calls into ordained ministry those who he cannot save any other way. That's what Fergus Butler-Gallie was once told. It was a tongue-in-cheek remark, nevertheless, Fergus thinks there's something in it. The 31 year-old was ordained in his mid 20s and has since enjoyed a front row seat to the peculiarities and eccentricities which make up the fabric of ordained ministry. His latest book, Touching Cloth, is a treasure trove of entertaining anecdotes and in this candid interview with Premier Christianity's Sam Hailes, Fergus retells some of the stand out moments, including the time he and a group of flower arrangers were stuck in the vestibule trying to disable an exceptionally loud rape alarm. He also opens up about the difficulties he's faced within the institution of the CofE and gives his view on what the future of the Church might look like. The Profile is brought to you by Premier Christianity. Subscribe now to get our Christmas special, plus the next two print issues for just £5.99. Visit premierchristianity.com/subscribe

Andy Peck talks to Steve Cockram, the Co-Founder of GiANT Worldwide and a director of GiANT London about a book written with his business partner Jeremie Kubicek, Cracking the Communication Code Unlock Every Relationship, One Conversation at a Time How do we ensure that we communicate well, and ‘unlock’ the code that will enable our daily interactions to move our work and relationships forward? Steve claims that his book and his work are sparked by things that he and his partner Jeremie fail at, and this book is no exception. The Profile is brought to you by Premier Christianity, the UK's leading Christian magazine Subscribe now from $1/month

Devon-based Lucy Grimble has led worship at venues as large as Wembley Arena and The Royal Albert Hall and her fourth album, Between the Shadow and the Sun, was released in October. Here she speaks with Woman Alive's deputy editor Jemimah Wright about how she moved from being a private worshipper to leading thousands of others. This interview was also published as the cover story for December's Woman Alive magazine. Read the article online and become a subscriber here

Andy Peck talks to Keith Foster, head of contemporary chaplaincy at Waverley Abbey College about the importance of chaplaincy at a time when many have little or no connection with a local church. They discuss how he became a chaplain at a local running club, what chaplaincy is and why so many are finding this a fruitful area of ministry. The Profile is brought to you by Premier Christianity, the UK's leading Christian magazine Subscribe now from $1/month

The CEO of the Christian charity, CARE, speaks to Premier Christianity's Sam Hailes about his life and faith. Ross Hendry was born in Wales, has worked for a trade union and held senior positions at a number of Christian charities. Opening up about the time he stood to be a Labour MP, Ross recalls the hostility he encountered from his opponents who portrayed his evangelical faith as something to be feared. "There was the suggestion I was running a homophobic campaign as an evangelical Christian. There was no evidence of that...for example there was a suggestion that because I had a picture of my wife and I on our campaign literature I was somehow flaunting my heterosexuality." Despite these, and other challenges, Ross continues to be a passionate advocate for Christians being involved in all areas of politics. Today, CARE campaigns on a variety of issues, from euthanasia to artificial intelligence and has recently celebrated its 40th anniversary. In this interview the pair discuss various Christian attitudes to politics and Ross comments on how people of faith can ensure their voices are heard. The Profile is brought to you by Premier Christianity magazine. Subscribe at premierchristianity.com/subscribe

Andy Peck talks to Dan Blythe, Global youth director for Alpha International and has been involved in youthwork for 20 years including serving at Hillsong London. Dan Blythe is the co-author of Facing Fear 365 Daily reflections for hope, peace and courage. They talk of how he has overcome many fears as he has grown into leadership, and how church service styles may be a barrier for many young people open to hearing about God. The Profile is brought to you by Premier Christianity, the UK's leading Christian magazine Subscribe now from $1/month

Kate Coleman never intended to become a Christian, yet alone blaze a trail for women in ministry. The first Black female minister in the Baptist Union, as well as the denomination’s first Black female president, when she was first asked to be a church elder (itself a miracle as her church had, up until that point, no women leaders) she was wary of saying yes. She knew God had called her, but was reluctant to be the cause of a potential church spilt. She describes the fallout as “a baptism of fire”. Three decades on, she’s still pioneering new ways to equip and resource female leaders around the world. In this in depth interview with Premier Christianity's Emma Fowle, Kate unpacks her unorthodox journey to faith, what she’s learnt from Christians behaving badly and shares her hopes and dreams for the future of the Church. You can also read this interview in Premier Christianity magazine. Subscribe now to receive the next 3 print issues for just £5.99

Andy Peck chats with Major General Tim Cross (retired) about encouraging godly leadership as a lay Minister. Tim served in the British Army for 36 years, and they discuss his assessment of the Israel-Gaza conflict, the kind of leadership every Christian needs to bring and the tools he finds helpful in developing lay leadership. The Profile is brought to you by Premier Christianity, the UK's leading Christian magazine Subscribe now from $1/month

This week on The Profile, Tony Wilson catches up with the church leader behind the #1 hit podcast, 'The Bible in a Year'. Fr Mike Schmitz explains how he came to faith, why he prays for church unity every week and gives his perspective on Pope Francis' recent comments on LGBT relationships. The Profile is brought to you by Premier Christianity magazine. Take out a print or digital subscription now at premierchristianity.com/subscribe

Andy Peck chats with James Poch and Iman Spearman, both part of Regeneration Church, London. James is the pastor who founded the church with his wife, Ruth. Iman came to faith at the church and now leads worship there. They talk about James's book: Holy Grit: Gaining traction on life's journey with Jesus and why he believes discipleship needs to be at the heart of any local church's ministry. Iman shares her remarkable story of coming to faith, at a time when she believed she was attending church for her last ever time. The Profile is brought to you by Premier Christianity, the UK's leading Christian magazine Subscribe now from $1/month

Francis Spufford is a child of his times. He was raised on a university campus by “serious and convinced” churchgoing parents, in an era when Christianity was “taken for granted” as part of most people’s ordinary lives. His teenage years began two decades in which God was absent. In his 30s, Spufford committed what he calls a “classic, destructive male mistake of midlife”. He politely declines to provide any further details other than explaining: “They are my shames, but other people’s privacy is involved.” That the crisis somehow led him back to God is both a miracle and a testament to the creative ways that a creative God breaks through into our everyday, he says. In this in depth interview with Premier Christianity's Emma Fowle, Francis unpacks some of his books, including the "sweary" Unapologetic and talks about why Christian art is sometimes a little bit rubbish. You can also read this interview in Premier Christianity magazine.

Andy Peck chats with Terry English, director of learning and development for Josiah Venture, ‘a movement of God among the youth of Central and Eastern Europe that finds its home in the local church and transforms society’. They look at the world’s longest continuous study of leadership by Jim Kouzes and Barry Posner which has given rise to the five areas of exemplary leadership. What are they and how can they be exercised in your situation? The Profile is brought to you by Premier Christianity, the UK's leading Christian magazine Subscribe now from $1/month

Edward Stourton has been the main presenter of the BBC's Sunday programme for over a decade, and has worked in broadcasting for more than forty years, during which time he has been a foreign correspondent for the BBC, ITN, and Channel 4. In this in-depth interview with Premier Christianity's editor Sam Hailes, Edward recounts the highs and lows of his career, tells us about his Catholic upbringing and continued faith, and introduces his latest book, Sunday, which chronicles half a century of religious affairs and ethical issues. Sunday by Edward Stourton is available now The Profile is brought to you by Premier Christianity magazine, the UK's leading Christian magazine.

Andy Peck chats with Shauna Pilgreen who has planted a church with her husband in San Francisco, known as Epic Church and is the author of 'Translating Jesus: How to share your faith in language today’s culture can understand' She shares stories from her own life in the US and they discuss so how do we make sure our faith does not sound like gobbledygook, to those outside the church? And why do church leaders need to make sure they are not too insular? The Profile is brought to you by Premier Christianity, the UK's leading Christian magazine Subscribe now from $1/month

Cancel culture and woke activism are being driven by a dangerous anti-Christian ideology sweeping across the West. That’s according to the Christian Institute’s social policy analyst, Dr Sharon James, whose new book on critical theory promises to help believers discern the truth. Hear more in this interview with Abi Thomas. The Profile is brought to you by Premier Christianity, the UK's leading Christian magazine, where you can also read this interview.

Andy Peck chats with Steve Robinson, pastor of Cornerstone Church, Liverpool about his book, 'Serve'. They discuss how he 'replanted' a struggling church' of 15 members and what to do if you lose your energy for the work God called you to do. The Profile is brought to you by Premier Christianity, the UK's leading Christian magazine Subscribe now from $1/month

Shane Lynch has coined a word for his bad boy years: “Shaneanigans”. The Boyzone singer spent much of his 20s – between concerts and autograph signings – drinking, swearing and getting into scraps. Around that time, he also became fascinated by the occult, the evidence of which is still visible in the tattoos etched on his skin. This “anti-God, anti-Christ” season became a problem when Lynch later became a Christian, so he added more ink to alter the meanings. In this interview with Premier Christianity's Megan Cornwell, Shane shares the full story. You can also read this interview in Premier Christianity magazine. Subscribe at a reduced rate now at premierchristinaity.com/subscribe

Andy Peck chats with Colin Edwards, a former lecturer from Redcliffe College who has served in South Asia and in a number of cross-cultural settings. They acknowledge the challenge of creating a church that is truly multi-cultural and discuss various models of church that seek to support people from different ethnic backgrounds and look at some of the strengths of each. The Profile is brought to you by Premier Christianity, the UK's leading Christian magazine Subscribe now from $1/month

Andy Peck talks to Todd Hunter about his book, 'What Jesus Intended: Finding true faith in the rubble of Bad Religion'. They discuss why Christianity is losing followers on both sides of the Atlantic and how a return to Jesus' actual approach can help us regain lost territory. They touch on whether adjusting an approach to same-sex marriage might improve matters, and how as Christians we need to live for the sake of others. The Profile is brought to you by Premier Christianity, the UK's leading Christian magazine Subscribe now from $1/month

The former director of Youth for Christ, now founder of Gospel Entrepreneurs sits down with Premier Christianity's Sam Hailes to talk about his life and ministry. In this in-depth interview, Roy Crowne shares his testimony and reminisces about a unique outreach program at the popular theme park Alton Towers. The pair also discuss the state of youth ministry today, whether internal church debates on sexuality have the potential to hamper our evangelism, and why the Church is at its best when every Christian discovers and operates in their own distinct God-given gifts. The Profile is brought to you by Premier Christianity, the UK's leading Christian magazine. Join the community and become a subscriber at premierchristianity.com/subscribe For more on Gospel Entrepreneurs visit gospelentrepreneurs.org/ Roy Crowne's biography Here's Hope is available from hopetogether.org.uk/shop

It's one of the best-known megachurches in America, producing worship songs that are sung by congregations around the world, but, according to Jenn Johnson, when it comes to the body of Christ, Bethel is probably akin to an armpit. She says this in jest, of course, but if you’re looking for an up-close-and-personal account of the ministry, Johnson is your go-to. The 41-year-old has been leading worship in Redding, California, with her husband, Brian, since she was 18. During that time, she has seen “crazy” supernatural phenomena, including the much-discussed gold dust that reportedly fell for hours during one church worship service. In this in depth interview with Premier Christianity's deputy editor Megan Cornwell, Jenn shares the full story of her life, faith and ministry. You can also read this interview in Premier Christianity magazine. Subscribe for half price at premierchristianity.com/subscribe

Andy Peck talks to Alan Cutting who has served as a pastor and planter of churches in the UK and Belgium and also with Samaritans Purse, Tearfund, Grassroots Trust and others as a church and community transformation consultant. They talk about his book ‘Raising families: Envisioning the Church to Empower its neighbourhood’ where he outlines 12 of the key lessons learned from 3000 churches he has worked with in Central Asia and Africa. The Profile is brought to you by Premier Christianity, the UK's leading Christian magazine Subscribe now from $1/month

God is shaking things up! That's according to the general secretary of Churches Together in England. Bishop Mike Royal was selected to pray for King Charles at the coronation and has been dubbed a “Christian man of influence”, but he's far more concerned with how the Church works together for the good of society than how others see him. Moreover, he's worried there's "too much cult of personality in the Church". In this interview with Premier Christianity's Emma Fowle, Bishop Mike talks about his pioneering work with Christian charities Transforming Lives for Good (TLG) and the Cinnamon Network, hits back at the false dichotomy between sharing the gospel with words and actions, and predicts what the Church might look like in 2033. You can also read this interview in Premier Christianity magazine The Profile is brought to you by Premier Christianity. Subscribe now to receive the next 3 issues for just £5

In a show first aired in 2022, Andy Peck talks to Speak Life's founder, Glen Scrivener, about his book, 'The Air We Breathe' where he suggests that many of the values that western civilisation holds dear are founded upon Christian values and wouldn't have gained currency without a Christian worldview. How might this affect the ways Christians in leadership speak and act? The Profile is brought to you by Premier Christianity, the UK's leading Christian magazine Subscribe now from $1/month

Andy Peck talks to Phil Boydell, the UK's national director of The Navigators, a Bible based-ministry aiming to develop disciples of Jesus in various spheres. They talk about the challenge of sharing faith in the UK where Christianity is facing various degrees of hostility and why the movement is using the language of 'Alongside' as a tag to encourage engagement. The Profile is brought to you by Premier Christianity, the UK's leading Christian magazine Subscribe now from $1/month

The noted Old Testament scholar Dr Christopher Wright shares his testimony of coming to faith as a child, and explains how his experience overseas and working in other cultures has informed his academic work on mission. He also comments on the Church of England's recent debates around sexuality, reveals what issues he's changed his mind on and discusses his work with the Langham Partnership in seeing churches in the Majority World equipped for mission. Christopher's two most recent books are The Great Story and the Great Commission (Baker), and Hearing the Message of Ecclesiastes (Zondervan) The Profile is brought to you by Premier Christianity magazine. Subscribe at premierchristianity.com/subscribe

Andy Peck talks to Steve & Angie Campbell co-leaders of Global Leadership Network UK about a series of leadership conferences that are being hosted around the UK in the Autumn and Spring. The discuss how such talks over the years have impacted their church: C3 in Cambridge, how they co-lead a church and ministry as a married couple, and the value of taking someone with you when you attend. The Profile is brought to you by Premier Christianity, the UK's leading Christian magazine Subscribe now from $1/month

It's a bold move, and one the lead singer of Rend Collective knows will be controversial in some circles. Nevertheless, the songwriter of some of the Church's most well known worship songs, including 'Build Your Kingdom Here' and 'My Lighthouse' is releasing a record which touches on themes of doubt, mystery and even abuse in the church. In this in depth interview Chris Llewellyn explains he's not leaving the much-loved joy-centred collective, but wanted to explore other themes which are rarely touched on within Christian music. The result is Honest, an 11 track record which sees Llewellyn experiment with new musical styles and deliver challenging and thought provoking lyrics. Hear sneak peaks from the record as Chris opens up about his experiences of depression, suffering and celebrity culture in this conversation with Premier Christianity's Sam Hailes.

Andy Peck speaks with Judah and Rachel Cole of Open Well Church, Liverpool who planted their first church just a few hundred yards from their first 'date' together in Salford, and went on to plant two more as God used their approach of loving and blessing communities. They also look at a way of reaching the homeless and on low incomes with the love of God. The Profile is brought to you by Premier Christianity, the UK's leading Christian magazine Subscribe now from $1/month

Former chaplain to the Archbishop of Canterbury Dr Isabelle Hamley is on a mission to normalise the subject of mental health within the church. It's a subject she's familiar with, having dealt with anorexia as a teenager, and an abusive childhood home environment which resulted in PTSD. In the midst of these challenges, she found solace in a vibrant Christian community in her home nation of France, who loved her and cared for her. Dr Isabelle felt called to Christian ministry as young as 16 but did not immediately pursue it due to her church's lack of women leaders at the time. She later moved to England for a master's degree and trained as a probation officer, which helped her apply Christian theology to tough real-world situations. But in the aftermath of the Brexit vote, Dr Isabelle said she felt "profoundly unwelcomed", with her children experiencing xenophobia at school. Nevertheless, she is committed to reconciliation and ecumenical relations, seeking empathy and understanding with those she disagrees with. Dr Isabelle Hamley's latest book, Struggling with God's Mental Health and Christian Spirituality, is available now The Profile is brought to you by Premier Christianity, the UK's leading Christian magazine. Subscribe for half price premierchristianity.com/subscribe

Andy Peck talks with Lauren Crook, head of Kingdom Living Ministries, which looks to assist Christians in living a kingdom life where he has placed them. They talk about how the ministry has developed under God's direction and what it's like leading something so dependent on God's intervention. The Profile is brought to you by Premier Christianity, the UK's leading Christian magazine Subscribe now from $1/month

Labour’s shadow health minister Wes Streeting MP speaks to Emma Fowle about growing up in poverty, reconciling his faith and sexuality, and building bridges across political and religious divides. The Profile is brought to you by Premier Christianity, the UK's leading Christian magazine. Subscribe for half price at premierchristianity.com/subscribe

Andy Peck talks to Sam Reimer professor of sociology at Crandall University in Canada and the author of 'Caught in the Current: British and Canadian Evangelicals in an age of self-spirituality'. They discuss his research of church leaders in the UK and Canada, why passing on the faith to young people is especially tough, and what to do about it. The Profile is brought to you by Premier Christianity, the UK's leading Christian magazine Subscribe now from $1/month

The bestselling author of The Bondage Breaker and the founder of Freedom in Christ ministries sits down with Sam Hailes to reflect on his lifetime of ministry. The pair cover a range of topics including how Dr Anderson came to faith, why unforgiveness is the greatest danger to the Church and how the leader overcame both spiritual opposition and heavy criticism from his fellow Christians. Dr Anderson's latest and final book, Thriving Through the End Times is out next month. Find out more at freedominchrist.org You can also read this interview in Premier Christianity magazine. Premier Christianity is here to help you think through the biggest issues of the day and keep you informed on issues that matter. Subscribe now and take advantage of our special offers

Andy Peck talks to Scot McKnight, Professor of New Testament at Northern Baptist Theological Seminary in Lisle, IL and author of The Second Testament. They discuss why 'another translation' was needed, what leadership material Scot values, what he believes is key to understand about the kingdom of God and what he thinks went wrong at Willow Creek Community Church. The Profile is brought to you by Premier Christianity, the UK's leading Christian magazine Subscribe now from $1/month

In this candid interview, actress and singer Jessica Oyelowo opens up about how being married to Hollywood star David Oyelowo led to a battle with her own identity. "I felt like my name just became 'plus one'" she says, before admitting she grappled with jealousy. In this frank exchange with Premier's Muyiwa Olarewaju, Jessica explains how she was able to rediscover her identity in Christ. "A pursuit of dreams or having money is where we place our value. I had to dig down into the place of my value being found in the one that never changes. He always loves, he always cares for, he always gives." In part two Premier's Ibe Giantkiller sits down with acclaimed music producer Ian Green, who has worked with the likes of Michael Jackson, Jennifer Lopez and Justin Timberlake. Jessica Oyelowo's new record (M)other is out now. You can also read her interview in Premier Woman Alive Ian Green's latest single 'Giving You All' is out now, and is Premier Gospel's track of the week. The Profile is brought to you by Premier Christianity, the UK's leading Christian magazine. Subscribe for half price at premierchristianity.com/subscribe

Andy Peck talks to Malcolm Macdonald, vicar of St Mary's Church, Loughton, Essex, about his book, 'Saturated with God: A cry for nation-changing revival'. They talk about how Malcolm's interest in revival was sparked by connections to the last 'revival' in the UK, on the Isle of Lewis in 1949, and how we can be people who prepare themselves for God's work of renewal as we seek his work in the nation. The Profile is brought to you by Premier Christianity, the UK's leading Christian magazine Subscribe now from $1/month

Andy Peck talks to Glenn Packiam about his book, 'The Resilient Pastor: Leading Your Church in a Rapidly Changing World' They look at what resilience is, how to develop it and what if we are tempted to give up and move on? The Profile is brought to you by Premier Christianity, the UK's leading Christian magazine Subscribe now from $1/month

Speaking to Premier Christianity editor Sam Hailes, the founder of Iran Alive Ministries, Dr Hormoz Shariat, shares his testimony of coming to faith from a Muslim background, and explains why he is confident - both by faith and by sight - that his home nation of Iran will turn to Christ. The Profile is brought to you by Premier Christianity magazine. Receive the next 3 print issues for just £5 premierchristianity.com/subscribe

In this deeply moving interview, the Christian author and former nurse, Catherine Campbell shares her incredible journey of faith, resilience, and divine assurance in the face of heartbreaking adversity. Speaking to Premier's northern correspondent Ian Britton, Catherine describes herself as a quiet teenager who had a transformational encounter with Jesus at the age of 14. She became involved with a vibrant youth group and felt a strong sense of community among her fellow Christians. However, one of the most challenging times in Catherine's life came when her first child was diagnosed with microcephaly, meaning her brain hadn't grown properly. This diagnosis turned her world upside down as she grappled with what this meant for her daughter's future and how it would affect their plans to serve as missionaries overseas. Catherine also speaks about the challenges of raising two daughters with severe health conditions and how her unwavering trust in God carried her through these trials. Recorded in Catherine's hometown of Belfast, this interview unpacks how God's presence has met Catherine in her darkest moments. This conversation is not only an intimate insight into Catherine's life but also offers hope and encouragement to anyone facing their own hardships. Her story reminds us that even in our deepest valleys, we are never alone. Catherine's latest book is entitled God isn't finished with you yet (IVP) and is available now. The Profile is brought to you by Premier Christianity, the UK's leading Christian magazine. Subscribe and receive the next 3 issues for just £5 at http://premierchristianity.com/subscribe

Esther Higham meets the veteran church leader and pioneer of Newfrontiers, Terry Virgo. Terry began his ministry with a small house church in Seaford on the south coast of England in 1968 with "no sense at all" that it would one day become a worldwide movement with nearly 2,000 churches globally. In those early days, Newfrontiers was part of the growing charismatic movement, which emphasised the gifts of the Holy Spirit including healing and prophecy. Another distinctive of the movement was its desire to move away from what had been viewed as dry church traditions of the time. Terry stepped back from day to day leadership in 2011, handing on the baton to 15 other apostolic leaders, but he's far from retired. Aged 83 he continues to travel globally, speaking and ministering. In this in depth interview, Terry recounts his own conversion to Christianity and discusses both the miracles he's personally witnessed, and his ongoing desire to see revival.

Andy Peck talks to Ian White, former Baptist minister and founder and host of The Preachers' Masterclass a website that is free for users. They look at what preaching is, how to create structure, and how to get better when you are in a rut. The Profile is brought to you by Premier Christianity, the UK's leading Christian magazine Subscribe now from $1/month

The opinionated, and often divisive, journalist Peter Hitchens talks to Premier Christianity's Sam Hailes about how he talked himself out of faith…and then back into it. The pair also discuss how Hitchens once tried to burn a Bible, the place of doubt within faith and his views on marriage and the Church of England. As for pessimism, Hitchens has embraced it. "I love being a pessimist and I think I’m quite good at it...Pessimism is the key to happiness. You’re never disappointed. I really don’t see why everybody doesn’t adopt it."

Andy Peck talks to Jason Clark, Principal of Waverley Abbey College and former founding pastor of Sutton Vineyard on the shadow side of leadership. What should we expect of leaders and why are we so surprised that leaders fail? They look at why our expectations of leadership can be unrealistic, how we are so poor at rehabilitation of fallen leaders and how to spot the traits within ourselves that may need attention. The Profile is brought to you by Premier Christianity, the UK's leading Christian magazine Subscribe now from $1/month

Andy Peck talks to Dr Pete Carter, senior leader of Eastgate Church, Gravesend, Kent about his new book, 'Faith: discovering and using the resources of heaven'. They talk of his own journey from atheism into faith, serving as a GP and co-leading a church that is now known as a gathering place for those who want to know more of God. They also talk about how the River Thames provides a great metaphor for our spiritual journey The Profile is brought to you by Premier Christianity, the UK's leading Christian magazine Subscribe now from $1/month

The film everyone is talking about finally arrives in UK cinemas from today. Jesus Revolution recounts the true story of a spiritual awakening among Californian hippies in the 1970s. The movie has already taken the US by storm, smashing box office records. In this week's episode, Emma Fowle meets the film's producer Jon Irwin to find out more about the Jesus People Movement, and why the film is resonating with so many. For more information visit Jesusrevolutionmovie.co.uk Read Premier Christianity's review of the film in the latest print issue. Subscribe for HALF PRICE at premierchristianity.com/subscribe

Andy Peck talks to Andy Campbell, a former youthworker and qualified coach about the dangers of one-to-one work, how to overcome any challenges and why coaching others can be a key tool in the Christian leader's arsenal The Profile is brought to you by Premier Christianity, the UK's leading Christian magazine Subscribe now from $1/month

The British journalist and author of The Fate of Abraham: Why the West is Wrong about Islam talks to Premier Christianity's Megan Cornwell about his appreciation for traditional Anglican Christianity. For Peter Oborne, the story of The Good Samaritan is central to his understanding of both Christ's mission, and the duty of Christians today. Addressing what he sees as the decline of integrity in British politics, Oborne associates this trend with the diminishing role of Christianity - and religion generally - in public life. He believes that society needs a spiritual refreshment. Oborne also talks about his well publicised resignation from The Daily Telegraph newspaper and addresses the impact of the Iraq War on his perspective as a journalist. The Profile is brought to you by Premier Christianity, the UK's leading Christian magazine. Stay informed on Christian news and grow your faith. Subscribe for half price now at premierchristianity.com/subscribe (limited offer)

Street Pastors founder Rev Les Isaac OBE chats to his son, musician Jake Isaac on the illness that put Les’ life at risk, the impact of ministry on family life and the ongoing fight for racial justice. Don't miss this special Father's Day episode of The Profile podcast.

"Your band could be massive without God." That's what John Cooper was once told. But the Skillet frontman unashamedly ignored that advice and has doubled down on sharing his views on God and theology (he once declared a 'war' on deconstruction). He talks to Sam Hailes about what it's like to be in a Christian band that's loved and adored by a largely non-Christian audience. In part two, Premier Christianity's assistant editor Emma Fowle meets the Bridgerton actor and activist Adjoa Andoh. The pair discuss Adjoa's journey to faith, and her view that the Church should be "the place where you can be a hot mess; you don't have to be fine. It's you and God." The Profile is brought to you by Premier Christianity magazine. Subscribe now for HALF PRICE and receive our special Windrush 75 edition premierchristianity.com.com/subscribe

Andy Peck talks to Dr Pete Carter, senior leader at Eastgate Church, Gravesend and founder of Heaven in Healthcare. They look at how his role as a medical doctor helpfully explains how authority works and why every believer can use their God given authority in the church and the world, including in the medical profession. The Profile is brought to you by Premier Christianity, the UK's leading Christian magazine Subscribe now from $1/month

When the Christian author and speaker John Bevere had a dramatic experience of the awesomeness of God it changed his life and ministry forever. In this interview with Premier Christianity's Sam Hailes, John explains what took place one night in Brazil and why every believer needs to grapple with a healthy fear of the Lord. John's latest book The Awe of God is available now. The Profile is brought to you by Premier Christianity. Subscribe for HALF PRICE now at premierchristianity.com/subscribe

The much loved pastor and author Tim Keller has died. The 72 year old was best known for writing modern Christian classics such as The Reason for God and pastoring Redeemer Church in New York City. In his tribute for premierchristianity.com, the British author Krish Kandiah described Keller as, "A gifted preacher, apologist, church planter, pastor, academic, evangelist, best-selling author, and a global statesman with entrepreneurial vision." This conversation between Keller and Premier's Justin Brierley and Ruth Jackson is one of the last interviews he ever gave - recorded just a few months ago. In it, they discuss Tim's cancer diagnosis, his prayer life and his hopes and fears for the future of the Church.   Read this interview at premierchristianity.com, along with more tributes.   Subscribe to the magazine for HALF PRICE here

Andy Peck talks to two directors of The Lead Academy, Martin Williams and Rachel Roberts about the work of the charity in working with church leadership teams over a two-year period. What plans can you execute in two years? Why do teams find this so valuable, and how do you discern whether this programme is for you?  The Profile is brought to you by Premier Christianity, the UK's leading Christian magazine Subscribe now  from $1/month 

Recorded live at Spring Harvest, this episode features highly respected theologian and minister in the Church of Scotland Professor John Swinton in conversation with Premier's Justin Brierley. The pair discuss John's journey from growing up as a child in a religious household to his time working as a nurse with people facing mental health challenges. The interview also delves into John's groundbreaking research on the theology of friendship and its transformative potential for individuals with mental health challenges. With compelling stories of breaking down barriers and cultivating genuine friendships within church communities, John argues for a more inclusive and compassionate approach to mental health within the church. He also talks about the meaning behind Jesus' healing miracles, the current mental health crisis among young people, and how the church can offer support by creating communities where people are truly present and missed when they're not there.   This interview was recorded live at Spring Harvest   The Profile is brought to you by Premier Christianity magazine. Subscribe for HALF PRICE at premierchristianity.com/subscribe

Andy Peck talks to Dallas Willard (1935-2013) about his book 'Personal Religion, Public Reality? Towards a Knowledge of Faith'. Dallas Willard was valued as a key thinker on spiritual formation, offering fresh biblical insights into personal change. They discuss how Dallas' understanding of Jesus teaching on the kingdom of God is the foundation of the book and a key idea for Christians in leadership, wherever God has called them to be.  The Profile is brought to you by Premier Christianity, the UK's leading Christian magazine Subscribe now  from $1/month 

The pastor and best-selling author tells Megan Cornwell how he changed his mind on women in ministry, why he’s ashamed of American evangelicals and what convinced him that gay relationships are ‘not God’s best’. The pair also discuss why Warren has mixed feelings about the term 'Pro-life', his theory on church growth and how he's ensuring everyone on earth has access to a Bible by the year 2033.    You can also read this interview in Premier Christianity magazine Subscribe to the UK's leading Christian magazine for HALF PRICE

Andy Peck talks to Dave Roberts, author, editor and publisher who now pastors The Gather Collective, a church in Eastbourne.  They talk about why Eastbourne, a town with many churches, needed another on; why he switched from writing to pastoring close to retirement and how he compares the revival in Toronto back in the 90s with more recent 'outpourings'. The Profile is brought to you by Premier Christianity, the UK's leading Christian magazine Subscribe now from $1/month 

It's twelve months since Dr Rosemarie Mallett was appointed Bishop of Croydon. In this interview with Premier Christianity's Megan Cornwell, Dr Mallett describes her early life growing up in Barbados and subsequent experiences of racism when she moved to the UK at the age of seven. "It was pointed out to me that my colour was a problem, because I was black." With her wider family also experiencing prejudice, Rosemarie became more politically aware and involved in fighting for racial justice. In discussing her Christian faith and decision to become ordained, she also shares her struggle with the Church of England as an institution, due to its history of involvement in colonialism, imperialism, and chattel slavery. Ultimately, she decided to play a role in repairing the breach and contributing to a more just and inclusive church. Speaking ahead of the 75th anniversary of Windrush, Rosemarie also reflects on the resilience and contributions of those who came to the UK with hope and expectation, despite facing racism and marginalisation. She acknowledges that there is still work to be done in addressing the ongoing injustices faced by this generation and their descendants.   Premier Christianity will soon be publishing a special edition which marks the Windrush 75 anniversary. Subscribe for half price at premierchristianity.com/subscribe

The Eton-educated authorised biographer of Margaret Thatcher, whose full title is Baron Moore of Etchingham, knows his way around the British establishment. National newspaper editors like Charles Moore are widely regarded as wielding immense power. But Moore says he wasn’t conscious of that during his tenures at The Daily Telegraph, The Sunday Telegraph and The Spectator. In this interview with Premier Christianity's Sam Hailes, Lord Moore comments on the religious nature of the upcoming coronation, reveals how he broke the story about the Archbishop of Canterbury's real father and shares his own journey from Anglican to Catholic.    You can also read this interview in Premier Christianity magazine. premierchristianity.com/subscribe

Andy Peck talks to Tim Rowlands who is the newly appointed Leader of the Evangelical Alliance in Wales . They talk about how he was a 'pastor's kid' who fell in love with church; his love of music as a classically trained musician, his extensive experience in local and national politics, and the challenge of reaching Wales with the Gospel.    The Profile is brought to you by Premier Christianity, the UK's leading Christian magazine Subscribe now from $1/month 

Andy Peck talks to Os Guinness whose latest book, Signals of Transcendence: Listening to the Promptings of Life celebrates 50 years of publishing, and tells the stories of 10 well known authors who have sought God following unexpected moments. These include C.S. Lewis, W.H. Auden and Malcolm Muggeridge. They also reflect on what Christian leadership is and how we can all play our part.  The Profile is brought to you by Premier Christianity, the UK's leading Christian magazine Subscribe now from $1/month 

The founder and former director of the global Christian mission agency, Operation Mobilisation has died surrounded by his family at his home near London. In this special episode, we're bringing you Justin Brierley's interview with George Verwer, which was first recorded in 2017   For more on George Verwer, including more past interviews and our obituary, visit premierchristianity.com

Andy Peck talks to Ian Soars, CEO Spurgeon's Children's Charity, about its merger with Fegans Children's Charity, a charity he used to lead. He explains why the local church can be the answer to the need in children's lives. They consider whether simply meeting needs has any eternal value and why Spurgeon's have developed a tool for parents to provide early intervention with eating disorders. The Profile is brought to you by Premier Christianity, the UK's leading Christian magazine Subscribe now from $1/month 

When Kaya Jones joined the Pussycat Dolls in the early 2000s she dreamed of fame and stardom. Instead she never felt good enough, being told to lose weight, and encouraged to have an abortion when she fell pregnant. She's since become a prominent pro-life campaigner and is gearing up to release her first Christian album. In this interview with Premier's Cassandra Maria, Kaya shares her testimony of being called out of the chart topping girl band and says she's praying for others in the mainstream music industry to find God just like she has.  Read the full interview at womanalive.co.uk   The Profile is brought to you by Premier Christianity magazine. Enter 'EASTER' at checkout to get a half price subscription.

Andy Peck talks to Andy Monks head of Children and Youth at Ascension Church, Balham, London about his book, 'The Now Generation: Empowering people to lead and have influence today'. They discuss his own journey to becoming a youth leader and how the encouragement he received can be a model for how the church can empower young people today. They also look at the argument that suggests it's foolhardy to expect too much because young people often lack maturity.  The Profile is brought to you by Premier Christianity, the UK's leading Christian magazine Subscribe now from $1/month 

It was the sermon that brought down a government. Last autumn, Rev Les Isaac gave an address at the annual Parliamentary Prayer Breakfast which resulted in a string of resignations, ultimately resulting in Boris Johnson standing down as Prime Minister. In this episode of The Profile, Sam Hailes meets the Rev Les Isaac who not only gave that sermon but has also founded one of the UK Church's most successful outreach projects. Street Pastors is a simple idea - teams of Christians from all denominations patrolling city streets late at night in order to take care of vulnerable people and be a practical display of Christ's love within the night-time economy. The pair also discuss why Les gets "bored" inside church and how preachers can better connect with their congregations.    You can also read this interview in the latest issue of Premier Christianity. Subscribe here

Premier Christianity magazine is proud to be supporting this year's Spring Harvest event! Every delegate at Spring Harvest will receive a free copy of our Easter issue - plus you can pick up extra boxes to take home to your church on our stand. Not going to Spring Harvest? Order up to 74 FREE copies of the latest issue for you and your church now at premierchristianmarketplace.com Hurry, offer only available while stocks last!

After being bullied as a child, Oli London struggled with low self-esteem and self-worth. He had hoped a series of transitions and expensive plastic surgery would him feel better. Instead, he became addicted to surgery, spending $300,000 on botox and skin-whitening injections in order to look more Korean - a culture he had become "obsessed" with. The controversial decision to appear more Korean resulted in critical articles and hateful messages on social media. But in the end it was the kindness of a priest that drew him to the Christian faith and turned his life around. Sam Hailes hears the full story   You can also read this interview in Premier Christianity magazine. Subscribe now at premierchristianity.com/subscribe

Andy Peck talks to Larry Collett, former chairman of the Board of Cass Information Systems in St Louis Missouri, about 45 years working at the same organisation and how he maintained a vibrant spiritual life in the world of finance, business strategy and technological development. They also looked at how easy it is to translate business leadership approaches to running a local church.  The Profile is brought to you by Premier Christianity, the UK's leading Christian magazine Subscribe now from $1/month 

The first black woman to be ordained as a vicar in the Church of England speaks to Premier Christianity's Sam Hailes about her life and faith. Earlier this month, Canon Eve, 72, was awarded the Lifetime Achievement Award at the Pride of Birmingham Awards, in recognition of her anti-racism work and service to the wider community. It was the culmination of a calling which began at a very early age - when God called her to ministry as a young child. "I found myself alone in a room and heard a voice calling me...My grandmother said don't tell anyone, God will reveal his promise when it's the right time for you," she remembers. Canon Eve also recounts going to church from a very early age - regardless of whether her parents accompanied her, and explains why she refuses to "romanticise" the Windrush Generation. She wants to be defined as a "priest who happens to be a woman and happens to be black", adding "I am a vibrant, gorgeous human bring who sets her sights high and is grateful for this gift of priesthood."   The Profile is brought to you by Premier Christianity magazine. Subscribe now and receive 3 issues for £5 at premierchristianity.com/subscribe

Andy Peck talks to Bobbi Kumari, founder of 'Living in Light', and the Sexposed conference and author of 'Sacred Sexuality: Rewire Your Desire Towards True Intimacy'. They talk of the challenge of launching a fashion brand and how she felt the need to start to educate today's youth on what the Bible says about sexuality.  The Profile is brought to you by Premier Christianity, the UK's leading Christian magazine Subscribe now from $1/month 

Craig Greenfield moved his family to a Cambodian slum. But don’t call him a missionary. The New Zealand-born social entrepreneur has made his home among some of the most disadvantaged people in the world, and learned some huge lessons along the way. Having served cross culturally for more than two decades, the 49-year-old is reflecting on the changing landscape of overseas mission, and how we share our faith with others. In this interview with Premier Christianity's assistant editor Emma Fowle, Greenfield explains how he's aware of negative perceptions around “pith helmet-wearing colonialists – forcing their culture and religion on people who don’t want it”. The pair also discuss what it means to empower local leaders, and what "subversive mission" (the title of Greenfield's latest book) can look like. You can also read this interview in Premier Christianity magazine. Subscribe from $1 at premierchristianity.com/subscribe

Andy Peck talks to William Wade, pastor of Life Church, Cuffley, Hertfordshire. He has a wide experience, serving in international churches in Germany and the Netherlands, and believes that self-promotion has no place in Gospel focused ministry. They also take about creating sustainable working patterns for the long haul.  The Profile is brought to you by Premier Christianity, the UK's leading Christian magazine Subscribe now from $1/month 

What began as a small side project, leading a Christian exercise class during the height of the 1980s aerobics craze, has morphed into an international speaking and writing ministry for Beth Moore. Known as Living Proof, Moore's ministry enabled her to address thousands in packed-out stadiums across America at a time when women in her denomination - the Southern Baptist Convention (SBC) - were encouraged to be stay-at-home mothers and wives. Her books and Bible studies went on to sell in their millions. In more recent years , it has been her condemnation of what she feels is “rotten” at the core of American evangelicalism that has seen her hitting headlines. In this interview with Claire Musters, Beth speaks candidly about the childhood abuse she experienced, the growth of Living Proof and why she left her "beloved" denomination behind.  Beth Moore's memoir All My Knotted Up Life (Tyndale) is available now You can also read this interview at premierchristianity.com. Subscribe now from just $1/month

Andy Peck talks to Jordan Whitmer, the US founder of the 'How to Life' Movement, a movement of Gen Z students reaching their peers that is active in 47 US states and 40 countries around the world. Josie Galopin heads up the How to Life UK, and provides a UK perspective.  Jordan talks of his own visit to the outpouring at Asbury College, Kentucky and how God seems to be reaching more and more Gen Z students today.  The Profile is brought to you by Premier Christianity, the UK's leading Christian magazine Subscribe now from $1/month 

Rt Rev Lord Richard Harries is the former Bishop of Oxford and a life peer in the House of Lords. A renowned clergyman, broadcaster and Christian thinker, he talks to Justin Brierley about his life, faith and ministry in the Church of England. His autobiography ‘The Shaping Of A Soul: A life taken by surprise’ is available now https://www.johnhuntpublishing.com/christian-alternative-books/our-books/shaping-soul-life-taken-by-surprise   The Profile is brought to you by Premier Christianity, the UK's leading Christian magazine Subscribe now from $1/month 

Andy Peck talks to Sharon Dirckx, adjunct lecturer at The Oxford Centre for Apologetics and author of 'Broken Planet: if there is a God why are there natural disasters and disease?' In the light of the Turkey/Syria earthquake on February 6th, they discuss ways to think about natural disasters and disease and how to best handle people who question the goodness of God.  The Profile is brought to you by Premier Christianity, the UK's leading Christian magazine Subscribe now from $1/month 

Two weeks ago, a handful of students at Asbury University in Wilmore, Kentucky stayed behind after their regular chapel service to pray and confess their sins. Within hours, more and more students on campus were flocking to the chapel inside the Hughes building. Fast forward 16 days, and thousands from across the globe have joined in with 24-7 non-stop prayer, worship and confession. Many are reporting a tangible sense of the presence of God. Premier's North American correspondent Kathleen Durham has been on site at Asbury University. In this special edition of The Profile you'll hear her conversation with university staff member Jennifer McChord, and four of the students who have been experiencing the revival first hand.  For more coverage on the Asbury Revival, including articles from UK church leaders, visit premierchristianity.com

Andy Peck talks to Anna Randall founder of 'The Speaker's Coach, and one time expert on GNB news, on how you can take your verbal communication to groups to the next level. They look at how you can be yourself as you communicate, what kind of speaking notes you might need and how to look the part. The Profile is brought to you by Premier Christianity, the UK's leading Christian magazine Subscribe now from $1/month 

The man behind of the world's most popular worship songs including '10,000 Reasons' and 'Blessed Be Your Name' releases his 14th album this weekend. In this special in-depth interview with Matt Redman, the songwriter explains what listeners can expect from Lamb of God and unpacks why he's so passionate about singing more songs regarding the holiness of God. "I love it when we don't even get a mention at all in the lyrics", comments Redman. Speaking to Premier Christianity's Sam Hailes, Redman also defines what success looks like for him and addresses common criticisms of the modern worship movement. For Redman, reverence in worship is everything. "It's a bit of a lifelong pursuit, honestly," he says, "trying to bring a little more reverence into these expressions of songs, because I think that’s what’s been lacking."   You can also read this interview in Premier Christianity magazine. See here. Lamb of God is available on all major streaming platforms. See here

Andy Peck talks to Nick Pollard who co-founded Family Mental Wealth which provides online tools to help parents and children navigate a variety of mental health issues. He explores how the illness of their daughter was the catalyst and led to academic and government bodies becoming involved.  The Profile is brought to you by Premier Christianity, the UK's leading Christian magazine Subscribe now from $1/month 

The poet, author and comic John Roedel knows what it is to suffer. From the collapse of his family business, to his son's autism diagnosis, Roedell wrestled with the big questions of life. Witnessing the inner workings of a local Catholic church didn't help, instead it led him toward atheism. For years he suffered serious depression. The turning point came when Roedel discovered God was far more personal than he'd been led to believe. "My relationship with God had always been very formal", he remembers. But something was changing. By imagining a two way conversation with God - and posting the results on Facebook - John's perception of the divine was changing for the better. "This was different. This was a relational moment I hadn't experienced before." Ultimately those short posts went viral and led to a new career for this writer/poet. Sam Hailes hears the full story.     The Profile is brought to you by Premier Christianity magazine. Subscribe from $1/month at premierchristianity.com

Andy Peck talks to Lee Kricher author of 'Seamless Pastoral Transition: 3 Imperatives – 6 Pitfalls'. The former pastor of Amplify Church, Pittsburgh tells Andy how to ensure that the transition from one pastor to the next doesn't mean losing members and finance along the way.   The Profile is brought to you by Premier Christianity, the UK's leading Christian magazine Subscribe now from $1/month 

Renowned pastor, author and Christian thinker Tim Keller joined Justin Brierley and Ruth Jackson of Premier Unbelievable? for a live show. Keller, who led Redeemer Presbyterian Church in New York for over 25 year, talks about his life and faith, his new book on forgiveness and his recent journey with cancer. Unbelievable listeners also ask their questions. The Profile is brought to you by Premier Christianity. Receive the next 3 print issues for just £5 now. Hurry - limited offer! premierchristianity.com/subscribe

The modern day hymn writer Keith Getty is best known for penning 'In Christ Alone' alongside Stuart Townend. Now Keith, together with his wife Kristen, has been nominated for a Grammy award for their lockdown album Confessio - Irish American Roots. In this interview with Premier's Ian Britton you'll hear Keith's reaction to his first ever Grammy nomination and hear clips from the new album.   The Profile is brought to you by Premier Christianity. Subscribe to receive the next 3 print issues for just £5 at premierchristianity.com/subscribe 

Andy Peck talks to Tim Gough, who is the Pioneer Director for YFC Wales and the author of Rebooted: Reclaiming Youth Ministry for the Long Haul. They talk about how the decline in young people took place despite a rise in paid youthworkers and what we might do to repair the damage in local churches.   The Profile is brought to you by Premier Christianity, the UK's leading Christian magazine Subscribe now from $1/month 

Francis Chan left his thriving US megachurch, turned his back on the fame that ministry had brought him and moved his family to a developing country. He tells Sam Hailes the full story.  This interview was first broadcast and published in 2019.  You can also read this interview in Premier Christianity magazine. Subscribe now from $1/month

RT Kendall doesn’t look like a heretic. He doesn’t sound like one either. But in the mid 80s he almost lost his job leading one of London’s most famous churches when he was accused of antinomianism: the claim that Christians are not obliged to follow God’s moral law. The controversy centred around a book he had written called Once Saved, Always Saved, in which he wore his Calvinist theology on his sleeve: that salvation is by sheer grace and not because of anything we do. Kendall laughs when he recalls the episode, saying that it was the testimonies of those who read the book that rescued him. "They said it made them want to be more godly," he shares. This wasn’t the only controversy Kendall would weather in 25 years of eventful ministry at Westminster Chapel. By the end of it, he saw himself as much a Brit as an American and, through his speaking and books, was regarded as a statesman of the UK evangelical Church by the time he retired in 2002. Justin Brierley hears the full story.   The Profile is brought to you in association with Premier Christianity magazine. Subscribe from $1 at premierchristianity.com

Andy Peck talks to Yetunde Hofmann, who has been involved in leadership for over 25 years in the corporate world and now has a portfolio career which includes leading an international leadership and change consulting practice and organisation that supports black women leaders. They talk about why the death of George Floyd was an impetus to helping black women and why love is such an important element of good business leadership. The Profile is brought to you by Premier Christianity magazine. Subscribe for news, features and analysis from £3.95 (UK) or $1 (International) at premierchristianity.com/subscribe

Jack Graham never set out to build a megachurch – he doesn’t even like the term. Nevertheless, under his watch, Prestonwood Baptist Church has grown to a membership of 45,000 – becoming one of the biggest congregations in America – since Graham became senior pastor more than three decades ago. Sam Hailes travelled to Texas to meet Dr Graham and find out why he backed Trump, how early trauma has influenced his ministry and how he guards himself from temptation.   The Profile is brought to you by Premier Christianity. Receive the next 3 print issues for just £5 now. Hurry - limited offer! premierchristianity.com/subscribe

For reasons that were never fully explained to him, Ram Gidoomal CBE and his family were forced to flee their home in Kenya when he was just 16 years old. Having previously left India during the 1947 partition, they said goodbye to the life of wealth and comfort they had created for themselves in east Africa to arrive in a hostile 1960s London as refugees once more, with no money and little to their name. Gidoomal was brought up in both the Hindu and Sikh faiths, but Jesus started to become real to him through the lyrics of a song he heard in a London pub. At the time, he was a student at Imperial College London. His business skills had won him a scholarship and would eventually lead to him earning so much money he couldn’t even spend the accruing interest. In this interview with Abi Thomas, Ram explains how God led him to raise millions for charity.  You can also read this interview in Premier Christianity magazine. Subscribe now from $1/month 

Sometimes the demands of leadership can overwhelm us. In this interview, mental health specialist Will Van Der Hart explains how Christians can build resilience and keep going when times are tough. This interview was conducted by Andy Peck, Premier's resident leadership expert. Will is a Pastoral Chaplain at Holy Trinity Brompton. Based on his book, The Power of Belonging, Will looks at being vulnerable as a leader and how shame works against out engagement with others. He shares why 'success doesnt equal security' and touches on his own mental health issues and the importance of being authentically present in our leadership. Why 'fake it to make it' is lousy career advice and why he hates the phrase 'becoming the best version of ourselves.' The Profile is brought to you by Premier Christianity magazine. Subscribe for news, features and analysis from £3.95 (UK) or $1 (International) at premierchristianity.com/subscribe

Premier's resident leadership expert interviewer Andy Peck has been having conversations with preachers and pastors for the past 17 years. This week, Andy talks with Jen Baker who moved from Michigan in the USA to the UK in an Abraham style call where she knew very little of God’s intentions. She now helps Christians live without fear, through a writing and teaching ministry that takes her all over the world. They talk about her latest book Unwavering: The Power of Choice and find out what holds people back from making progress in what God has called them to do. The key is learning how to make decisions based not on fear, but on faith.  The Profile is brought to you by Premier Christianity magazine. Subscribe for news, features and analysis from £3.95 (UK) or $1 (International) at premierchristianity.com/subscribe

The vicar of St Peter's Notting Hill, London first rose to public attention during lockdown, when he began cycling around his parish leading simple street corner services consisting of just a hymn and a prayer. Rev Pat Allerton now has thousands of followers on social media and has been featured in the national papers, who have focussed on his Eton education and good looks as much as his message. Now, two years on, Pat has written a book A Pocketful of Hope: A simple A-Z of faith for those who haven't yet found it.  He spoke to Premier's Esther Higham to talk more about his life, faith and ministry.   The Profile is brought to you by Premier Christianity magazine. Subscribe for news, features and analysis from £3.95 (UK) or $1 (International) at premierchristianity.com/subscribe

As the year draws to a close, our presenter and producer Sam Hailes says thank you for joining us in 2022, and asks - who would you like to hear being interviewed next year? Send your requests to [email protected] Have a merry Christmas and a happy new year, with lots of love from all the team at The Profile podcast and Premier Christianity magazine PS there's still time to bag a HALF PRICE subscription to the UK's leading Christian magazine - premierchristianity.com/subscribe (offer expires at the end of December)

Julie Roys has been described as a gossipmonger, an apostate and a liar. Such labels would cut most Christians deep, but not Roys. The 57-year-old Chicago-based journalist wears unfounded criticism as “a badge of honour” – she even has a mug printed with some of the more acerbic remarks she has received. For the last four years, Roys has been reporting on the egregious crimes committed in the Church, including the sexual abuse of apologist Ravi Zacharias, the mismanagement and abuse at Willow Creek Community Church and bullying within the Acts 29 church-planting network. It’s the “inter-connected web” of million-dollar Christian ministries that protect the members of their tribe and exploit their relationship with donors and the media, which Roys says is harming the Church’s witness in America – and she’s determined to expose it. She tells Premier Christianity's Megan Cornwell the full story.   You can also read this interview in Premier Christianity magazine. Subscribe now from $1/month

Premier's resident leadership expert interviewer Andy Peck has been having conversations with preachers and pastors for the past 17 years. This week, Andy Peck chats with Tim Alford, the National Director of LIMITLESS, the youth and children's movement of the Elim Pentecostal Churches in the UK and Ireland about how local churches might start groups designed to reach and disciple more young people. The Profile is brought to you by Premier Christianity magazine. Subscribe for news, features and analysis from £3.95 (UK) or $1 (International) at premierchristianity.com/subscribe  

Autumn Miles was trapped in an abusive relationship, until a powerful encounter with God during the depth of her despair set her on a path to freedom. She tells Premier Christianity's Sam Hailes the full story.    You can also read this story on premierchristianity.com

Have you realised that the Nativity plays in many local churches actually have little to do with the birth of Jesus as depicted in the Gospels? In this interview with Premier's resident leadership expert Andy Peck, Rev Dr David Instone-Brewer Research Fellow at Tyndale House, Cambridge, tackles some of the mythical elements surrounding the incarnation and suggests a new way and better way of understanding what was really going on. The Profile is brought to you by Premier Christianity magazine. Subscribe for news, features and analysis from £3.95 (UK) or $1 (International) at premierchristianity.com/subscribe

The unorthodox pastor Mick Fleming is a man on a mission, to change the Church – and society in the process. In this interview with Premier Christianity's Emma Fowle, the Burnley-based leader tells his story of abuse, homelessness and salvation. His own story of being thrown out of church, and miraculous experiences which prompted him to forgive the man who raped him, has resulted in a desire to serve those on the rough edges of society. "Stained-glass windows won’t feed children," he says. Instead, Christians must step up to serve the lonely, lost and hungry. "We need to repent so that God can move...we haven’t provided for the poor as we should have done," he says. 

Premier's resident leadership expert interviewer Andy Peck has been having conversations with preachers and pastors for the past 17 years. This week Andy talks to Nick and Becky Drake who launched the ministry ‘Worship for Everyone’ in 2010 in order to unite all ages in worship. They serve at Gas Street Church in Birmingham, Nick as Associate vicar and Becky running ‘Worship for Everyone’ in the church and further afield. They talk about how to transform the ‘all-age’ service from something ‘no-one enjoys’, to a service that blesses all ages. The Profile is brought to you by Premier Christianity magazine. Subscribe for news, features and analysis from £3.95 (UK) or $1 (International) at premierchristianity.com/subscribe

After leaving the army, Patrick Barrett turned to alcohol to cope with trauma, but God called him back to his childhood faith using the most unlikely means. He tells Rachel Matthews the full story. 

In the midst of ongoing pressures on all our finances, Emma Fowle sits down with Emma Revie, CEO of the UK’s largest network of foodbanks, Trussell Trust. In this in depth interview, Emma talks about how her faith motivates her work and what she thinks should be done about the cost of living crisis. 

Powerful Leaders? is a book that exposes and explores how leaders are tempted away from a biblical model of leadership into illegitimate - and in the worst cases abusive - use of authority and power. It's written by Marcus Honeysett, the director of Living Leadership, a charity that focuses on healthy leadership and church culture. In this conversation with Andy Peck, Marcus explains how leaders can safeguard themselves against moral failure.  The Profile is brought to you by Premier Christianity magazine. Subscribe for news, features and analysis from £3.95 (UK) or $1 (International) at premierchristianity.com/subscribe

Calvin Robinson has attracted a huge following online in recent months, and is known for espousing strongly held opinions on contentious subjects such as the Covid vaccine. He's said that to be labelled a "conspiracy theory" is a "badge of honour", yet he doesn't want to be known as "controversial", arguing instead that he's voicing views which are shared by millions of others. In this interview with Premier Christianity's Sam Hailes, Calvin explains how the Church of England "blocked" his ordination at the last minute, and argues there's "no place" for conservatives in the CofE. Now ordained in the Free Church of England, Calvin is continuing his media work, presenting a new show on GB News entitled 'Common Sense Crusade', where he speaks on a range of topics, including sexuality and transgender. The Church needs to get back to tradition and scripture, he says. "That's what people want, and that's why the Church has survived for 2,000 years."   The Profile is brought to you by Premier Christianity, the UK's leading Christian magazine. Subscribe from $1 at premierchristianity.com/subscribe 

The Profile podcast is now bringing you a bonus interview every week! Premier's resident leadership expert interviewer Andy Peck has been having conversations with preachers and pastors for the past 17 years. You'll now be able to hear some of the best of his interviews. This week Andy meets the founder of Christian mental health charity Kintsugi Hope and author of Bouncing Forwards, Patrick Regan.  The Profile is brought to you by Premier Christianity magazine. Subscribe for news, features and analysis from £3.95 (UK) or $1 (International) at premierchristianity.com/subscribe

Anthony Ray Hinton spent 30 years inside an Alabamian prison waiting to be executed. Hinton doesn’t use the word “hell” lightly; nevertheless, that’s what decades of solitary confinement was like, he says. So how did he cope? “Faith keeps you from getting caught up in everyday trauma, because your life is so consumed with trying to live like Jesus. And it was no different for me on the row. I had a job to do, and that was for those men to see Christ in me." Remarkably, Hinton believes God had a plan all along, and he was sent to death row on a special mission. He has also been able to forgive those who were responsible for this grave injustice. In this in-depth interview, Hinton shares his story with Premier Christianity's Sam Hailes, and explains why he believes US Christians must campaign against the death penalty.    The Profile is brought to you by Premier Christianity. Subscribe now from just $1 at premierchristianity.com

The Profile podcast is now bringing you a bonus interview every week! Premier's resident leadership expert interviewer Andy Peck has been having conversations with preachers and pastors for the past 17 years. You'll now be able to hear some of the best of his interviews. This week Andy meets the UK Director of Care for the Family, Katharine Hill, who is the author of Left To Their Own Devices? Confident Parenting in a World of Screens The Profile is brought to you by Premier Christianity magazine. Subscribe for news, features and analysis from £3.95 (UK) or $1 (International) at premierchristianity.com/subscribe

Joseph D’souza is a civil rights advocate and Anglican bishop whose work in India has drawn the praise of many civil and religious leaders. In this interview with Premier Christianity's Sam Hailes, the primate of the Good Shepherd Church of India talks about his calling to advocate on behalf of poor and marginalised groups, and stand against the caste system, which he says is pervasive not just in India, but around the world. Neither Christians nor other religious groups have a good track record in this area, he argues. Bishop Joseph also speaks about the reality of persecution which is faced by many Christians in India (see Premier Christianity's special report on the subject here), why the sacramental tradition of Anglicanism is so appealing, and his own story of coming to Christ.  The Profile is brought to you by Premier Christianity. Subscribe now from just $1 at premierchristianity.com

The Profile podcast is now bringing you a bonus interview every week! Premier's resident leadership expert interviewer Andy Peck has been having conversations with preachers and pastors for the past 17 years. You'll now be able to hear some of the best of his interviews. This week Andy meets Hope Virgo, who has run award winning campaigns on mental health and eating disorders, including #DumpTheScales. She is also the author of You Are Free (Even if you don't feel it) The Profile is brought to you by Premier Christianity magazine. Subscribe for news, features and analysis from £3.95 (UK) or $1 (International) at premierchristianity.com/subscribe

The head of 24-7 Prayer USA, Tyler Staton’s love affair with talking to God started when his youth leader challenged him to prayer walk his school every single morning for the whole of his summer holidays. Not only did find that he enjoyed God’s company, by the end of the year, half his classmates had been saved! In this interview, he chats to Emma Fowle about spiritual hunger, his latest book and why a church should be known for the character of its congregation, not the stature of its leaders. Tyler is the author of Praying Like Monks, Living Like Fools (Hodder & Stoughton) The Profile is brought to you in association with the UK's leading Christian magazine. Subscribe to Premier Christianity now for only £4.95/month at premierchristianity.com/subscribe/

The Profile podcast is now bringing you a bonus interview every week! Premier's resident leadership expert interviewer Andy Peck has been having conversations with preachers and pastors for the past 17 years. You'll now be able to hear some of the best of his interviews. This week Andy meets the Northern Irish church leader, speaker and author of Deep Roots of Resilient Disciples, Rick Hill. 

Anthony Evans is a worship leader, artist and vocal producer, well known for putting his own unique spin on some of the world's biggest worship songs. In this in depth interview with Premier Christianity's Sam Hailes, Anthony talks about the moment he discovered he could sing, his subsequent tour with Kirk Franklin and why the Christian music industry has been slow to bring diverse voices and sounds together. The producer, who appeared on the US series The Voice and worked with Christina Aguilera explains why moving from America's Bible Belt to Los Angeles was such a good decision, and also opens up about his emotional health. Anthony recently waived his right to anonymity in order to write a book on mental health with his therapist.   Anthony's latest book When Faith meets Therapy is out now The Profile is brought to you by Premier Christianity. Subscribe today and receive the next 6 print issues for just £9.99. (Are you living outside the UK? Purchase a digital subscription from just $1/month)

The Profile podcast is now bringing you a bonus interview every week! Premier's resident leadership expert interviewer Andy Peck has been having conversations with preachers and pastors for the past 17 years. You'll now be able to hear some of the best of his interviews. This week Andy meets TV presenter, and author of A Good Friend, Gemma Hunt. 

Jay Lowder was seconds away from ending his life when an unexpected interruption, followed by a dramatic revelation of Jesus’ love for him, changed everything. He tells Sam Hailes the full story.    The Profile is brought to you by Premier Christianity. Subscribe from $1/month at premierchristianity.com

The Profile podcast is changing! In the coming weeks, we'll be bringing you bonus interviews on the subject of leadership, in order to help you use your influence for God's purposes. Premier's resident leadership expert interviewer Andy Peck has been having conversations with preachers and pastors for the past 17 years. You'll be hearing some the best of his interviews right here on The Profile podcast. First up is the "bewildered founder" of 24-7 prayer, Pete Greig. 

How did a former stand-up comedian, referee and Argos manager become the vicar of St Matthew's the Apostle, Burnley? In this in-depth interview Fr Alex Frost speaks to Premier Christianity's Sam Hailes about his call to ordained ministry, the challenges of working in an area where poverty and addiction are commonplace, why he struggles to read his own book and his passion for inclusion within the Church of England. Fr Alex featured in a BBC documentary entitled 'The cost of Covid' which shone a spotlight on deprivation in the town. But today, Fr Alex says "no one cares" and is angry that despite widespread media coverage of the serious challenges facing Burnley, many politicians continue to appear disinterested. What's the answer to the problems he's witnessing? "You'd perhaps not be surprised to hear a Christian minister say this, but...the Gospel of Jesus Christ" he says.  Fr Alex Frost is the author of Our Daily Bread (Harper Collins) which is published on 27 October.  The Profile is sponsored by Premier Christianity magazine. Receive our special Queen tribute edition, plus the next 5 print issues for just £9.99. Visit premierchristianity.com/subscribe

As Nicky Gumbel retires from leading the UK's largest Anglican church, Megan Cornwell sits down with his successor, Archie Coates, to discuss the new direction of the 3,000-strong evangelical community of HTB. In this exclusive interview, Rev Coates explains his position on LGBT issues and reveals the painful past experiences that have shaped and influenced his walk with God. The Profile is brought to you in association with the UK's leading Christian magazine. Subscribe to Premier Christianity now for only £4.95/month at premierchristianity.com/subscribe/

Michael Youssef doesn’t pull his punches. Within minutes of his conversation with Premier Christian Radio's Esther Higham, the 73-year-old preacher was holding forth on “the woke movement”, warning that Black Lives Matter was “Marxist” at heart, “based on a lie” and wanted to destabilise Western democracies. Dr Youssef has strong political views. But he’s much better known for his theological stances. His fervent gospel preaching and unequivocal style has won him large audiences all over the globe. While some ministers might avoid preaching on controversial topics, Youssef positively embraces them. In this interview Dr Yousef speaks about how he keeps himself spiritually fit, why false teaching makes him weep and comments on what he'd like his legacy to be. This interview was first published in Premier Christianity, the UK's leading Christian magazine. US listeners can subscribe from $1/month. See premierchristianity.com/subscribe Dr Youssef's organisation Leading the Way is celebrating 20 years of ministry in the UK next month. See here for more details  

"Christianity isn't about rules, it's about a relationship." It's a common phrase said by many Christians, but it isn't true. That's according to Bible teacher Jen Wilkin. In this in depth interview with Premier Christianity's Sam Hailes, which was recorded on location at The Village Church (Dallas, Texas) Jen reveals the deeply personal reason behind her passion for Bible literacy among women. She also explains why she's never had a typical "quiet time", comments on the best way church leaders can handle the 'deconstruction' movement and unpacks some of the teaching contained in her popular books.  The Profile is brought to you by Premier Christianity magazine. Get the next 3 issues for just £5 premierchristianity.com/subscribe For more on Jen Wilkin, visit jenwilkin.net

In her student days, Cole Arthur Riley was an atheist eagerly searching for peace, in what she now smilingly describes as a "grand search for ultimate truth". Reflecting back, she thinks that journey turned out to be a mask to placate her own discomfort with mystery. In this in-depth interview with Premier Christianity's Sam Hailes, the author of the critically acclaimed book This Here Flesh and founder of Black Liturgies unpacks how she ultimately found faith.  The Profile is sponsored by Premier Christianity magazine. Receive the next 3 print issues for just £5. Visit premierchristianity.com/subscribe

The British entrepreneur and founder of Vitae London is our guest on The Profile podcast this week. William Adoasi sits down with Sam Hailes to explain how profits from the sale of every watch funds a school uniform for a child in sub-Saharan Africa. Given that he has been mentored by Richard Branson, the company has generated £1.1m of revenue and celebrities such as Paloma Faith and Emeli Sandé have been spotted wearing Vitae timepieces, you’d think it would be mission accomplished for William. “It has been an amazing journey,” he agrees, “but I would say we’re just getting started.” You can also read this interview in the latest issue of Premier Christianity. Receive the next 3 print issues for just £5. Visit premierchristianity.com/subscribe  

In this special episode, Tim Bechervaise catches up with the Australian church leader and cultural critic, Mark Sayers. Mark is the author of A Non Anxious Presence and a leading Christian commentator on world events.    Read Mark Sayers' cover story on finding peace in the age of anxiety in Premier Christianity magazine   You can also read this interview at premierchristianity.com

Speaking ahead of the release of his Channel 4 documentary on grief, the Rev Richard Coles talks about losing his partner David, and how that bereavement effected his faith. In this special edition of the podcast, Richard also shares his view on the Lambeth Conference, and the ongoing discussions and disagreements in the Anglican Communion on LGBT issues.   You can also read this interview at premierchristianity.com   Good Grief airs at 10pm on Monday 8 August on Channel 4

He may be retiring from leading the largest Anglican Church in England, but Nicky Gumbel has huge plans ahead of him. In this interview with Premier Christianity's Emma Fowle, Nicky reveals what's next... You can also read this interview in the latest issue of Premier Christianity. Receive the next 3 print issues for just £5. Visit premierchristianity.com/subscribe

John Sutherland joined the Metropolitan Police in 1992, having dreamed of being a police officer since his teens. Rising quickly through the ranks, he experienced all that is extraordinary about a life in blue: saving lives, finding the lost, comforting the broken and helping to take dangerous people off the streets. But for every case with a happy ending, there were others that ended in desperate sadness, and in 2013 John suffered a major breakdown. In this interview with Premier's Esther Higham, John reveals how his Christian faith was torn apart and rebuilt again. "I'm less certain of more things than I've ever been in my life," he says, "but I do believe that God is love." The Profile is brought to you by Premier Christianity, the UK's leading Christian magazine. Enjoy 3 issues for just £5 now at premierchristianity.com/subscribe

Ex soldier Eric Maddox pioneered an interrogation technique which led to the capture of one of the world's most wanted men. But if it wasn't for hearing the voice of God, he never would have joined the military. The Profile is brought to you in association with the UK's leading Christian magazine. Subscribe to Premier Christianity now for only £4.95/month at premierchristianity.com/subscribe/

In this exclusive interview, the British-Nigerian novelist opens up about her unexpected conviction for money laundering, and explains how the love and support of her church family helped keep her faith alive while her husband was in prison   Hope and Glory by Jendella Benson is out now You can also read this interview in Premier Christianity magazine   Subscribe and receive 3 issues for just £5 now at premierchristianity.com/subscribe

The daughter of the late Archbishop Desmond Tutu speaks to Megan Cornwell about apartheid, the legacy of her famous father and how her gay marriage led to a break with South Africa’s Anglican Church.    You can also read this interview in Premier Christianity magazine. Subscribe to the UK's leading Christian magazine in print and online for just £4.95/month. http://premierchristianity.com/subscribe

Natasha Hemmings has spent her career smashing stereotypes. Can you be a Christian and a Miss England star? Can you be a classically trained vocalist who makes pop music? The answer, it seems, is 'of course!'. Speaking to Premier Christianity's Sam Hailes, Natasha shares her testimony, which includes her never-before-told story of encountering "a warm glow" in her bedroom, which she knew to be the presence of Jesus. Natasha also shares honestly about her struggle to find her place in church and introduces her new single 'Invisible'.   Natasha is currently touring with Ronan Keating. Her new single 'Invisible' is out now, ahead of her forthcoming album I AM. For more information visit natashahemmings.com   The Profile is brought to you by Premier Christianity, the UK's leading Christian magazine. Subscribe now and receive Rob Parsons' new book free of charge http://premierchristianity.com/subscribe

Nia-Cerise Conteh was living a life of pleasure and idol worship before an encounter with the Holy Spirit in her kitchen changed the trajectory of her life. In this episode of The Profile Nia-Cerise tells Premier Christianity's Megan Cornwell how God has been using her story to bring thousands of non-believers to a knowledge of Christ.  The Profile is brought to you in association with the UK's leading Christian magazine. Subscribe to Premier Christianity now for only £4.95/month at premierchristianity.com/subscribe/

As London Community Gospel Choir celebrates its 40th birthday, their founder explains why he’s still intent on making music for the masses. Rev Bazil Meade MBE is no ordinary septuagenarian. The 71-year-old co-founder of Europe’s leading gospel choir has played in front of some of the highest profile international audiences, and continues to perform with extraordinary energy, exuberance and flair. In this interview with Charmaine Noble-Mclean, the musician reflects on his early life and upbringing, as well as the state of Gospel music in the UK today.    You can also read this interview in Premier Christianity magazine. Subscribe to the UK's leading Christian magazine in print and online for just £4.95/month. http://premierchristianity.com/subscribe

The beheading of 21 Coptic Orthodox Christians in Libya by Islamic State in 2015 brought worldwide attention to a Church that has endured persecution throughout its 2,000- year history. The first Coptic (the word means ‘Egyptian’) Orthodox Archbishop of London, Archbishop Angaelos, said he forgave the killers, and in the same year was awarded an OBE for his work as an advocate for religious freedom. Today, he continues that work, as well as overseeing the 35 Coptic Orthodox parishes in the UK. Abi Thomas met Archbishop Angaelos at the Cathedral of St George, part of the Coptic Orthodox Centre in Hertfordshire. The building, which was completed in 2006, contrasts many modern elements (including the large sports hall under the same roof) with an abundance of traditional Coptic icons dedicated to past saints. The pair spoke about a range of issues including Thy Kingdom Come, a prayer initiative begun by the Church of England but now supported by a range of denominations, including the Orthodox Church.  The Profile is brought to you by Premier Christianity, the UK's leading Christian magazine. Enjoy full online access plus the print magazine delivered to your door for just £4.95/month at premierchristianity.com/subscribe

Franklin Graham is in good spirits when he meets Premier's head of news Marcus Jones in London's Hyde Park Corner. He's excited to be visiting Speaker's Corner, the place where many evangelists have preached and debated over the years. Many there have faced fierce opposition because of the message they preached, something Graham himself can sympathise with. The US based evangelist, whose father was the renowned Billy Graham, is in the UK for the God Loves You Tour. The tour was due to take place in 2020 but every venue he'd booked to preach in cancelled him after complaints were made about past comments he'd made about homosexuality and Islam. He would later take successful legal action against some of the venues, meaning the tour is back on, stopping off at Liverpool, Newport, Sheffield and London. Hear their conversation in full now on this special bonus episode of The Profile podcast. The Profile is brought to you by Premier Christianity magazine. Subscribe to the UK's leading Christian magazine in print and online for just £4.95/month. http://premierchristianity.com/subscribe

Ordained Baptist minister Rev Dr Israel Oluwole Olofinjana grew up in Nigeria in a polygamous family. In this interview with Premier Christianity's Sam Hailes he explains more about his 'tough' family background and the story of how he came to the UK to work as a reverse missionary. Israel also speaks about his role at the Evangelical Alliance, and why we need to keep talking about race within the UK Church.   The Profile is brought to you by Premier Christianity, the UK's leading Christian magazine. Enjoy full online access plus the print magazine delivered to your door for just £4.95/month at premierchristianity.com/subscribe

Shermara Fletcher might be the Principal Officer for Pentecostal, Charismatic and Multi-cultural Relations at Churches Together in England, but she's also learned to appreciate - and even embrace - other Christian traditions. In this interview with Premier Christianity's Sam Hailes, Shermara explains how Anglo-Catholic spirituality is nourishing her right now. She also opens up about her experience ministering alongside the homeless in Birmingham and London, and reflects on how her deeply Christian upbringing has shaped her life. Shermara, who has been invited to address politicians on the impact of Brexit on homeless women, says: "We don't worship politics, but the reality is policy governs and shapes our lives and the decisions we're able to make. The text talks about praying for leaders who are in charge, so I don't think we can detach from the political conversation. We should be pointing to morality and showing a different way, but not disengaging from the conversation altogether." The Profile is brought to you by Premier Christianity, the UK's leading Christian magazine. Enjoy full online access plus the print magazine delivered to your door for just £1/month at premierchristianity.com/subscribe

Ahead of his UK debut at Big Church Day Out, the trailblazing worship leader (Bethel Music, Maverick City) and fashion model (Tommy Hilfiger) talks to us about breaking boundaries, hearing from God and why he’s ‘traumatised’ by the thought of being a Christian celebrity.    You can also read this interview on premierchristianity.com. Subscribe now for just £1

Dami Okeke sits down with the popular singer and Gospel artist Mandisa to hear about her journey to faith. Mandisa first shot to fame after appearing on American Idol. Her new book is Out of the Dark: My journey through the shadows to find God's love   The Profile is brought to you by Premier Christianity. Subscribe to the UK's leading Christian magazine from just £1

When Rhys Stephenson joined Strictly Come Dancing, most people over the age of twelve would have been forgiven for not knowing who the CBBC presenter was (the 28-year-old has spent the majority of his professional life interacting with a puppet dog called Hacker!) But the prime time BBC One show has propelled the presenter to new heights, and in this conversation with Premier Christianity's Emma Fowle Rhys reveals how a 'desperate' prayer and the support of his church family led him into his chosen career. Rhys also explains why he feels so strongly that Christianity gets a bad rap in the media. He worries this has led many Christian young people – and adults – to feel embarrassed about expressing their faith. The star narrowly missed out on the final, but says if his Strictly journey helped others to “feel seen… feel represented”, that’s the real prize. You can also read this interview on premierchristianity.com. Subscribe now for just £1

He might be best known for penning congregational hits such as ‘Amazing love’ and ‘Shine, Jesus, shine’ (the latter is now fondly referred to by millennials as a “primary school assembly banger”), but Graham Kendrick started out by writing story-based songs. This year marks 50 years since the release of Graham's first album Footsteps on the Sea. In order to celebrate, Graham has re-recorded the song that started it all, and put out a new EP entitled Where It All Began which sees him collaborate with singers Lucy Grimble and Lurine Cato MBE. The four-track EP is a tribute to that 1960s/70s era when the bearded guitarist was pioneering musical evangelism in coffee bars and folk clubs. In this in-depth interview with Premier Christianity's Sam Hailes, Graham reflects on his life and career in music, comments on the highs and lows of the modern worship movement and explains why the Church needs to be singing the stories of scripture.  You can also read this interview on premierchristianity.com. Subscribe now for just £1   Join the listening party for Graham's new EP Where It All Began, airing on Premier Christian Radio at 2pm on Easter Monday. 

It's a double bill this week as Jemimah Wright interviews the legendary campaigner and humanitarian Baroness Cox, and Sam Hailes sits down with the head of the London Institute for Contemporary Christianity (LICC) to talk about the importance of whole life discipleship.    Read the interview with Baroness Cox in Premier Woman Alive magazine. For more on LICC's 40 cities tour, see http://licc.org.uk   The Profile is brought to you in association with Premier Christianity. Subscribe now for just £1 at premierchristianity.com/subscribe

The journalist and activist Genelle Aldred was just 19 when an unplanned pregnancy ended in the stillbirth of her daughter. It was an experience that still drives her to tackle inequality wherever she sees it. In this interview with Abi Thomas, Aldred details her varied career so far, which has seen her present the news for some of the world’s largest broadcasters, including the BBC and ITV, and interviewing Lenny Henry, Paul O’Grady and One Direction’s Louis Tomlinson. She now works with organisations to help them achieve gender and racial diversity, as well as improve their workplace culture and communication. It’s a role which, in many ways, her Christian faith prepared her for. Genelle is the author of new book Communicate for Change (SPCK).    You can also read this interview on the Premier Christianity website.   The Profile is brought to you in association with Premier Christianity. Subscribe now for just £1 at premierchristianity.com/subscribe

Stacey Morgan kissed her husband goodbye before he donned his space suit on July 20, 2019, and headed to his waiting Soyuz rocket. With an overwhelming mix of pride, excitement, and terror, she and her children held hands and watched the rocket ignite and lift off for a nine-month mission aboard the International Space Station. In this interview with Premier's Rachel Matthews, Stacey speaks about the difference her Christian faith has made, and the lessons God has taught her through her unique experiences. Find out more in Stacey's book The Astronaut's Wife, which is out now.  The Profile is brought to you in association with Premier Christianity. Subscribe now for just £1 at premierchristianity.com/subscribe 

The straight-talking pastor who isn't afraid to preach on controversial topics speaks to Emma Fowle about embracing God’s heart for the lost and why he’ll always value honesty over self-preservation. The pair also discuss the impact of Covid and social unrest on his ministry, how he's able to read hundreds of books a year and what made him leave his home nation of Australia in order to minister in one of America's most secular cities.  The Profile is brought to you in association with Premier Christianity. Subscribe now and receive John Mark Comer's new book free premierchristianity.com 

38 per cent of pastors are considering quitting the ministry. A combination of Covid and significant cultural shifts is arguably making it harder than ever to be a church leader. Having researched this worrying trend, the US based theologian, worship leader and pastor Rev Dr Glenn Packiam is visiting the UK in order to share his findings. In this interview with Premier Christianity's Sam Hailes, Glenn shares his testimony, explains why he is simultaneously the leader of a non denominational evangelical church and ordained in the Anglican church, gives his view on how congregations can better support their pastors and also comments on how the Church can avoid further ministry scandals. Glenn's latest book The Resilient Pastor is out now.  The Profile is brought to you in association with Premier Christianity. Subscribe now and receive John Mark Comer's new book free premierchristianity.com

Having worked as paediatrician specialising in the care of newborn babies at a leading neonatal intensive care unit for more than 25 years, Dr John Wyatt became increasingly aware of the ethical maelstrom caused by advancing technology and contentious debates about the nature of humanity at the beginning and end of life. Now retired, he spends his time writing and speaking on a range of subjects including AI and robotics, science and faith and medical ethics. In this interview with Premier Christianity's Megan Cornwell, John reflects on his career so far and explains how his Christian faith has informed his work. Prof John Wyatt is the host of a new podcast from the Premier Unbelievable? team. Just search 'Matters of Life and Death' via your podcast provider. The Profile is brought to you in association with Premier Christianity. Subscribe for HALF PRICE now at premierchristianity.com (offer ends Monday)

The desire of Delirious? frontman and principal songwriter, Martin Smith, to reach the masses is undiminished. He loves leading worship in church (“I’ve given my life to it. I believe in it”) but doesn’t want to be constrained by it. Performing at Glastonbury is top of his bucket list and when  he doesn’t hesitate when asked about his dream collaborations: Adele, Coldplay’s Chris Martin and Stormzy (“I think I could retire after a day with Stormzy”). For Premier Christianity’s first in-person interview in 18 months, our editor Sam Hailes met Smith in his home on the south coast of England (forgive the sound of our photographer clicking away in the background). Fresh from a run along Brighton beach, Smith is relaxed throughout the conversation, and excited about the release of his new solo album, Dancing In The Fire, which has emerged out of the ashes of Covid-19. Dancing in the Fire is out now. Find out more at martinsmith.tv The Profile is brought to you in association with Premier Christianity. Read this interview with Martin Smith now at premierchristianity.com  

Despite a career that might suggest otherwise, talking about ‘it’ was never the aim, says youth worker and church planter Rachel Gardner. Her latest book is The Sex Thing: Reimagining Conversations with Young People About Sex but “My big thing is Jesus,” she says, adding, “because my big thing is Jesus, of course I talk about sex and masturbation and eating disorders and exam results and stress and mental health.” In this in depth interview, the pair discuss how the Church can get better at having tricky conversations with young people.   The Profile is brought to you in association with Premier Christianity. Get John Mark Comer's new book Live No Lies free when you subscribe. See premierchristianity.com/subscribe

The Northern Irish philosopher Peter Rollins chats to Premier Christianity's Sam Hailes about his vision of a "religionless" Christianity. For Peter, the good news that we can’t be satisfied, that life is difficult, and that we don’t know the secret. It's a highly unusual take on faith, but for Rollins its grounded in a vision of Christ crucified. The pair discuss his upbringing during the Troubles, his conversion to Christianity, and how his thinking has changed over time. For more information, including his 'Atheism for Lent' project, which helps people move from fundamentalism to "a richer kind of faith", visit peterrollins.com  The Profile is brought to you in association with Premier Christianity. Get John Mark Comer's new book Live No Lies free when you subscribe. See premierchristianity.com/subscribe

Pastor Mick Fleming shot to prominence in 2020 after the BBC filmed him helping the homeless and addicted in Burnley. Described as a 'Covid lifesaver' the man behind Church on the Street Ministries suddenly found his astonishing testimony was being shared in mainstream media outlets and hundreds of thousands of pounds was being donated from Christians and non-Christians alike. In this interview with Premier Christianity's Megan Cornwell, he reflects on what God has done through his ministry, the media attention he's received for his Covid outreach, and reveals how he's coped when other Christians have been critical of him.    The Profile is brought to you in association with Premier Christianity. Get John Mark Comer's new book Live No Lies free when you subscribe. See premierchristianity.com/subscribe 

Northern Ireland's longest serving MP could be months away from being First Minister. Sir Jeffrey Donaldson speaks to Premier's Marcus Jones about how his faith sustains his work, and why he believes socially conservative Christians like him are sometimes not treated with respect by wider society. In part two, Sam Hailes speaks to the director of the Nazareth Trust Richard Mayhew. The medical organisation treats 180,000 patients per year, and traces its roots back to 1861. It is now one of the largest Christian organisations in Israel.   You can also read the interview with Sir Jeffrey Donaldson in Premier Christianity magazine.   The Profile is brought to you in association with Premier Christianity. Get John Mark Comer's new book Live No Lies free when you subscribe. See premierchristianity.com/subscribe

Three years before the pandemic struck, Greg Boyd received an unusual prophetic word, which prompted him to move his church’s material online. We asked him about this seemingly unique warning about Covid-19, and how he feels about being labelled both ‘charismatic’ and ‘progressive’. You can also read this interview in Premier Christianity magazine. The Profile is brought to you in association with Premier Christianity. Get John Mark Comer's new book Live No Lies free when you subscribe. See premierchristianity.com/subscribe

The Egyptian-American pastor and evangelist speaks to Premier's Charmaine Noble-Mclean about his life, faith and ministry. Youseff believes many churches around the world are failing to preach the Bible in its fullness and says Christians must take a stand for truth in an increasingly godless world.    The Profile is brought to you in association with Premier Christianity. Get John Mark Comer's new book Live No Lies free when you subscribe. See premierchristianity.com/subscribe 

Aled Jones’ path to stardom was littered with occurrences that many would call God ordained. His first break came, aged twelve, after a congregation member wrote to a record company without his knowledge. Soon afterwards he'd recorded his debut album, toured the Holy Land with the BBC and shot to fame as the angelic, golden-haired chorister who sang ‘Walking in the air’. More than three decades later, Jones is still making a living singing the nation’s favourite hymns. But what of his own personal faith? Emma Fowle spoke to him to find out more, and hear about his new children's book Bobby Dean Saves Christmas.  The Profile is brought to you in association with Premier Christianity. Get John Mark Comer's new book Live No Lies free when you subscribe. See premierchristianity.com/subscribe

Five years on from a cancer diagnosis that changed her life forever, the Christian academic Kate Bowler speaks to Premier Christianity's Sam Hailes about her new book 'No Cure for Being Human'. The pair also discuss the pressure often felt in churches to be positive, and how even well-meaning comments about faith, healing and prayer can often be hurtful or damaging. For Kate, real Christianity offers a deeper and far more meaningful hope than what the prosperity gospel, or an endless quest for 'progress' could ever bring.   The Profile is brought to you in association with Premier Christianity. Get John Mark Comer's new book Live No Lies free when you subscribe. See premierchristianity.com/subscribe

Sheila Wray Gregoire is a popular speaker, blogger and author of The Great Sex Rescue. The book is based on an in-depth survey of 22,000 Christian women, and argues that generations of women have grown up with messages about sex that have made them feel dirty, used or invisible. In seeking to provide a better biblical understanding of sex and intimacy for Christian women and men, Sheila touches on issues that other Christians might be tempted to shy away from. Abi Thomas sat down with her to find out more.   Note: This interview contains adult themes, so listener discretion is advised.  If you have been effected by any of the issues raised in this programme, you can phone Premier Lifeline, the national Christian helpline on 0300 111 0101 For more about Sheila, visit https://sheilawraygregoire.com/

Max McLean, founder of the Fellowship of Performing Arts talks to Justin Brierley about his life, faith and playing the role of CS Lewis in the new film biopic ‘The Most Reluctant Convert’. For The Most Reluctant Convert: http://www.cslewismovie.com The Profile is brought to you in association with Premier Christianity magazine. Subscribe now and receive a copy of John Mark Comer’s book ‘Live No Lies’

Yvonne Orji is a Nigerian-American actress and comedian. She talks to Premier's Cassandra Nelson about new book Bamboozled by Jesus. In part two, Justin Brierley meets the Catholic priest and noted CS Lewis scholar Michael Ward. The speak about Michael's role in the new CS Lewis movie and his new book After Humanity: A Guide to CS Lewis’ The Abolition of Man.  For ‘After Humanity’: https://www.wordonfire.org/humanity/

The CEO of Christian Vision for Men (CVM), Nathan Blackaby, chats to Emma Fowle about finding faith in the mean streets of Brazil, what it was like to cycle a bathtub across the UK, and his organisation's plan to reach a million men with the Gospel.   The Profile is brought to you in association with Premier Christianity magazine. Subscribe now and get a FREE copy of John Mark Comer's new book Live No Lies.

It's a double bill this week as we hear the life stories of church minister and founder of the Pentecostal Credit Union Rev Carmel Jones and the veteran worship leader and songwriter Chris Bowater.  The Profile is brought to you in association with Premier Christianity magazine. Subscribe now for only £1

Joshua Sutcliffe has lost his job twice, and been caught up in media storms over his Christian views on sexuality, gender and other religions. Sam Hailes asks the maths teacher turned street preacher why he keeps finding himself at the centre of controversy. You can also read this interview in Premier Christianity magazine. The Profile is brought to you in association with Premier Christianity magazine. Subscribe now for only £1

Claud Jackson was dealing class A drugs and driving expensive sports cars before an encounter with God changed everything. Sam Hailes sat down with Claud to hear his testimony in full.  You can also read Claud's story here. The Profile is brought to you in association with Premier Christianity magazine. Subscribe now for only £1 Find out more in Claud's book From Guns to God (SPCK)

Journalist-priest Giles Fraser talks to Justin Brierley about his conversion, ministry, change of politics and new memoir ‘Chosen’ which tells the story of his spiral into depression after resigning from his ‘dream job’ at St Paul’s Cathedral, and how he found healing through reconnecting with his Jewish ancestry. Read this interview: https://www.premierchristianity.com/giles-fraser-how-the-journalist-priest-discovered-his-jewish-roots/5507.article  For ‘Chosen’: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Chosen-Found-between-Christianity-Judaism/dp/0241003261  The Profile is brought to you in association with Premier Christianity magazine. Subscribe now for only £1

Chrissie Chevasutt battled gender dysphoria for decades. They explain how a dramatic encounter with the Holy Spirit during a transgender dressing appointment changed everything. Read their story in full here.  For an alternative perspective on transgender, see here. The Profile is brought to you in association with Premier Christianity magazine. Subscribe now for only £1

Emma Fowle speaks to the Executive Director of Elim, Olivia Amartey. In this in-depth interview, Olivia talks about losing her father to Covid, how she has never let her race or gender hold her back and what it looks like to steward a national organisation well.    The Profile is brought to you in association with Premier Christianity magazine. Subscribe now for only £1

When a bullet tore through Taylor Schumann's left hand on an otherwise average afternoon at New River Community College in Virginia, it changed everything. In the split-second moment of the shooting, and the long work of healing and trauma recovery that followed, her beliefs about gun reform and the role of the church in the USA's historic and future violence were irreversibly altered. She speaks to Premier Rachel Matthews about the events, and how she came to forgive her attacker, as explained in her new book When thoughts and prayers are not enough. In part two Justin Brierley meets Mark Vernon, author of Dante’s Divine Comedy: A guide for the spiritual journey. As Italy marks the 700th anniversary of Dante’s death this month, the pair discuss the medieval writer’s literary and spiritual legacy. For Taylor Schumann: taylorschumann.com   For Mark Vernon: markvernon.com/books/dantes-divine-comedy-book The Profile is brought to you in association with Premier Christianity magazine. Subscribe for just £1 now at premierchristianity.com/subscribe LIMITED OFFER

Dr. Michael Guillen is a former Harvard physics instructor and Emmy award-winning News Science editor. He talks to Justin Brierley about his new book ‘Believing is Seeing’ which tells the story of his journey from atheism to Christianity via science, and why everyone needs to examine their own worldview. For ‘Believing is Seeing’ by Dr Michael Guillen: https://michaelguillen.com/  The Profile is brought to you in association with Premier Christianity magazine. Subscribe now for only £1

Rachel Matthews meets the five time world record holding Paralympian Stef Reid. In this in depth interview, Stef talks about the accident which changed her life and how her perspective on what it means to be a Christian has matured over time.   Read her story in full here The Profile is brought to you in association with Premier Christianity magazine. Subscribe now for only £1

Imagine if terrorists hijacked a plane and flew it into an American city. What if that led to the US President attempting to overthrow Saddam Hussein's Iraq. This was premise of Joel Rosenberg's first novel - and it was written months before the September 11th attacks took place. The astonishing story of how Rosenberg appeared to have predicted geo-political events led to a huge amount of media. In the 20 years since, Rosenberg has written many more books - both fiction and non fiction - all with the aim of helping Christians to understand the times we live in. In this interview with Premier Christianity's Sam Hailes, Joel explains how he came to Christ from a Jewish background and why the landscape of the Middle East is changing so dramatically - a subject he unpacks in his new book Enemies and Allies. The pair also discuss Israel, Bible prophecy and the current situation in Afghanistan.   The Profile is brought to you in association with Premier Christianity magazine. *SPECIAL OFFER ​*Subscribe now FOR JUST £1/month

Lindz West may be best known as the energetic frontman of Christian dance band LZ7, but he is also a passionate evangelist with a heart for taking the gospel to the hardest to reach young people. In this week’s The Profile, he talks honestly to Premier Christianity’s Emma Fowle about growing up on Billy Graham tent revivals, why he walked away from Jesus as a teenager and how he was drawn back to God through music and miracle stories. The Profile is brought to you in association with Premier Christianity magazine. *SPECIAL OFFER ​*Subscribe now FOR JUST £1/month

It's a double bill this week! Jackie Hill Perry is an American Christian speaker, author and poet who’s widely known for being raw, open and honest about her sexuality. Jackie, who says she remembers being same-sex attracted from a young age, now uses her Christian ministry to share God’s work in bringing her out of a homosexual lifestyle, which she also detailed in her first book Gay Girl, Good God.  In an in-depth interview with Premier Christian News journalist Tola Mbakwe, Jackie talks about her journey to faith, the backlash she gets for sharing her testimony, her thoughts on conversion therapy, motherhood and what she calls cringeworthy moments of ‘Baby Christian Jackie’. But don’t be mistaken, Jackie brings more to the table than discussions on sexuality and the Church. We delved deep into the topic of holiness. What makes someone holy? Do church denominations differ in the way they respect God’s holiness? What does holiness even mean? Despite having a laid-back, and easy-going personality, what’s clear from this interview is Jackie is a very deep-thinker and is a student of the Bible. Jackie and Tola discussed all things holiness as revealed in her brand new book Holier Than Thou. Plus, in part two, Cassandra meets the British evangelist Daniel Chand to hear about his testimony, and talk about his 'Tent Revival' ministry.  

The Mayor of Bristol found himself in an awkward position last summer. Marvin Rees was visibly delighted that the statue of slave trader Edward Colston, which had stood in the city centre for 125 years, had been torn down by Black Lives Matter protestors and thrown into the harbour. But given his position as mayor, he also told reporters he could not condone criminal damage. When I put this disparity to the 49-year-old, he shrugs. “Yeah, absolutely, but we live in a complicated world, and sometimes two things can be true at the same time.” Rees has learned to embrace complexity and paradox, especially when it comes to his faith. He became a Christian aged ten at an evangelical crusade, and was taught “certainty is the mark of faith” at university. In this in depth interview he explains how his faith has changed over time and why Jesus' parable of the talents is inspiring him to work for change in Bristol and beyond.  You can also read this interview in Premier Christianity magazine. Subscribe now FOR JUST £1/month 

Sarah Kroger's life dramatically changed when she encountered God at a youth conference. Today, she describes her calling has helping others to understand that they too can have a personal relationship with Jesus. In this in-depth conversation with Premier's Rachel Matthews, the Nashville-based worship leader opens up about her testimony, music and songwriting career. The Profile is sponsored by the UK's leading Christian magazine, Premier Christianity. Subscribe now for £3.95/month  

Sohrab Ahmari grew up in Iran before becoming an atheist as a teenager after moving to the USA. An adult convert to Catholicism, he is a widely-published journalist and social commentator in the US. He talks to Justin Brierley about his new book ‘The Unbroken Thread: Discovering the Wisdom of Tradition in an Age of Chaos’. The Profile is brought to you in association with Premier Christianity magazine. Subscribe now for £4.95/month  

Jeff Lucas is a popular Bible teacher, speaker and author. He's been a regular columnist for Premier Christianity for over 20 years. But what makes him tick? How did his Christian journey begin? And where does his trademark humour come from? In this in depth interview, Jeff opens up about a range of topics including understanding God's guidance, why he finds prayer so difficult, his new book Singing in Babylon, and why he's still hopeful about the future of the UK Church.  Read Jeff Lucas' columns in every issue of Premier Christianity magazine. Subscribe now for £3.95/month

2 guests are featured this week on The Profile speaking to Justin Brierley and Ruth Jackson: Jon Yates is Executive Director of the Youth Endowment Fund and author of ‘Fractured: Why our societies are coming apart and how to put them back together again’ Sam Chan is an Australian evangelist and author of ‘How to Talk about Jesus (Without Being That Guy)’ The Profile is brought to you in association with Premier Christianity magazine. Subscribe now for £4.95/month

There is an honesty about Christine Caine that is rare in high-profile leaders. When the bestselling author, internationally acclaimed speaker and leader of multiple international organisations appears Zoom, she is straight off the treadmill, laughing and apologising for her appearance in a sorry-not-sorry way that epitomises her no-nonsense attitude. “I cannot be made up like I am for television for everything I do, or I will never have a life!” she says. “So here I am! I want to share my life, not a filtered life.” In both her writing and speaking, no topic is off-limits – whether it is the sexual abuse she suffered as a child, finding out that she was adopted in her 30s, battling thyroid cancer in her 40s, or the panic attacks that she started to experience in her 50s. It was this last experience, she says, which prompted the writing of her latest book How Did I Get Here? Finding your way back to God when everything is pulling you away (Nelson). In this in-depth interview, this self described "old school revivalist" explains the importance of staying connected to Jesus.  Read this interview in the new issue of Premier Christianity magazine. Subscribe now for £3.95/month  

Rachel Pieh Jones grew up in the USA but has spent most of her adult life in the Horn of Africa. In this in-depth interview with Premier Christianity's Sam Hailes, Rachel explains how meeting and living alongside Muslims radically changed her perception of them. Now based in Djibouti, where almost everyone is a Muslim, Rachel says she's experienced remarkable hospitality, even as she's experienced what it's like to live as a minority, and a stranger in a foreign land. Her new book Pillars: How Muslim Friends Led Me Closer to Jesus is available now.  The Profile is brought to you in association with Premier Christianity magazine. Subscribe now for £3.95/month

Veteran broadcaster Patrick Forbes talks to Justin Brierley about his varied life and ministry, which includes seafaring, clowning and being a parish priest, as related in his new autobiography ‘A Roomful of Elephants: My first eighty years in the church’.   The Profile is brought to you in association with Premier Christianity magazine. Subscribe now for £4.95/month  

The CEO of Mercy UK explains how miraculous financial provision has allowed them to run a residential home for vulnerable young women. In the 15 years since the house in West Yorkshire opened, more than 320 young women have been through the residential discipleship programme, with 82 per cent of residents testifying afterwards: “My life was transformed.” In this interview with Premier Christianity's Emma Fowle, the pair discuss how the home was founded and what Arianna has learned in the process.    The Profile is brought to you in association with Premier Christianity magazine. Subscribe now for £3.95/month

It has taken the Northern Irish collective a few years to realise it, but they're more of a ministry than a band. That's according to Gareth and Ali Gilkerson, the husband and wife duo who are founding members of the popular worship group Rend Collective. In this in depth interview with Premier Christianity's Sam Hailes, the couple talk about their decision to preach the Gospel at every gig, why Covid-19 has affected the band's finances and how criticism and online trolling hasn't dampened their passion for church unity.  The Profile is brought to you in association with Premier Christianity magazine. Subscribe now for £3.95/month

Richard Stearns was President of World Vision USA for 20 years. In this in-depth interview with Premier Christianity's Sam Hailes, he talks about his unexpected calling into the ministry and how he felt completely unprepared and ill-equipped for the role. "I knew nothing about poverty and I remember saying 'Lord I don't know what to do'. It was almost like the Lord said to me 'that's exactly where I want you - dependent on me." Richard also explains how he was able to generate millions of dollars in fundraising for the charity, why Donald Trump's "rhetoric" around refugees has hurt their work and the various challenges which Covid-19 has brought. Richard says the many good news stories about the reduction in poverty are "too often untold". For example, the number of children dying from preventable causes has halved in the past 25 years he says, explaining that he believes charities need to broadcast their successes as much as their pleas for support.  The Profile is brought to you in association with  Premier Christianity magazine. Subscribe now for £4.95/month

The Archbishop of York is an evangelist. Speaking about the Thy Kingdom Come prayer initiative, he says, "We all long, of course, to share our faith.” A significant proportion of the 38 books he’s authored are either about mission and evangelism or, in the case of his newest title, Dear England (Hodder & Stoughton), are aimed at those who don’t yet share his faith. In this in-depth interview with Premier Christianity's editor, Archbishop Stephen shares his own life story, and explains how he's "longing" to bring "evangelistic renewal" to the Church of England.  You can also read this interview in the latest edition of Premier Christianity magazine.  Subscribe now for £4.95/month

Scientist Rosalind Picard speaks to Ruth Jackson about her faith journey from atheism, how she has used Artificial Intelligence (AI) to create life-saving technology and where she sees the future of AI. She also shares her thoughts about working in science as both a Christian and female, as well as how we can help people to meet God in the midst of suffering. Watch Professor Rosalind Picard discuss Artificial Intelligence and whether new technology removes the need for God with Professor Nick Bostrom on the Big Conversation https://www.thebigconversation.show/aiandtechnology The Profile is brought to you in association with Premier Christianity magazine.  Subscribe now for £4.95/month

Apologist Clare Williams, who is one of the speakers at the upcoming Unbelievable? conference, speaks to Ruth Jackson about some of the big questions young black people face. Clare spent over ten years working as a teacher before training in apologetics and uses her experience to help provide Generation Z (those born after mid-90s) with answers to some of life’s toughest objections about the Christian faith. To listen to more of Clare, join us at the online Unbelievable? conference on Saturday 15th May https://www.unbelievable.live​. The Profile is brought to you in association with Premier Christianity magazine.  Subscribe now for £4.95/month

Operation Mobilisation has over 5,000 missionaries working in 110 nations. The charity is best known for Logos Hope, its ship which provides help, aid and support to communities around the world. Matthew Skirton is the CEO of the UK branch of the Christian charity and in this interview with Premier Christianity's Sam Hailes, he shares his own personal testimony. Matthew also recalls the 20 years he and his wife spent working in Moldova, at a time when electricity was temperamental and running water was non-existent. Listen now to find out what motivated Matthew to give up a comfortable life in the UK and go into mission work, and be encouraged by his stories of God at work around the world today.    The Profile is brought to you in association with Premier Christianity magazine.  Subscribe now for £4.95/month

In part one, Julia Fisher hears the story of Terri Goodyear, who went to prison for the murder of her husband. Why did she commit such an horrific crime, and could God forgive someone capable of such an act? In part two the worship leader and church leader Tim Hughes talks to Sam Hailes about the future of the Church post Covid-19.    The Profile is brought to you in association with Premier Christianity magazine.  Subscribe now for £4.95/month

As a much in-demand actor, David Oyelowo OBE can’t say ‘yes’ to every film he’s offered. So how does he decide which projects to take on? His answer is simple: “As a Christian, I don’t really do films that don’t have some kind of message to them.” In this interview with Sam Hailes, David explains how God became real to him, what it was like playing Martin Luther King Jr in Selma and why he wishes British Christians would be more up front about their faith. In part two, Justin Brierley meets Mark Clark, pastor of The Village Church, Vancouver. He talks about his conversion to Christianity through reading the Bible, why he gave up academic dreams to become a pastor, and about his new book ‘The Problem of Jesus: Answering a Skeptic's Challenges to the Scandal of Jesus’. Read the interview with David Oyelowo now in Premier Christianity magazine.  Subscribe now for £4.95/month

Gospel heavy weight Fred Hammond is well known for his extensive music catalogue, but he's been quietly honing his writing and stage directing skills for almost two decades. Now his virtual play "Surviving Williams" is set to reach a global audience. In this interview with Premier's Muyiwa, Hammond says his greatest gift is the anointing to help people. “I love to see people grow. I love pouring into folk…I’m a coach." Hammond was pivotal in launching the careers of Marvin Sapp, Christina Bell and Israel Houghton and continues to take new talent under his wings. During this conversation, Hammond also reflects on his divorce and even opens up about his most embarassing experience in music to date. Sharing his secret to bouncing back from rejection, Hammond quotes Isaiah 40:31 – “They that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength,” adding that the definition of patience, is the ability to remain the same while you wait. The Profile is brought to you in association with Premier Christianity magazine. Subscribe now for £4.95/month

Jeff Vines is the senior pastor of One And All Church in Southern California. He talks to Justin Brierley about leading churches in Africa, New Zealand and the USA, his book ‘Dinner with Skeptics’ and his personal reaction to the Ravi Zacharias scandal.   For 'Today with Jeff Vines' on Premier Christian Radio https://www.premierchristianradio.com/Shows/Sunday/Today-with-Jeff-Vines    The Profile is brought to you in association with Premier Christianity magazine. Subscribe now for £4.95/month

The author of In the Shadow of the Shahs spoke to Ruth Jackson about being raised as a Persian Muslim in Europe, the Iranian revolution and how she discovered Jesus.  The Profile is brought to you in association with Premier Christianity magazine. Subscribe now for £4.95/month

One of the most recognisable faces on television talks to Premier's Marcus Jones about his faith, handling criticism and what makes a person remarkable.    You can also read this interview in Premier Christianity magazine.   The Profile is brought to you in association with Premier Christianity magazine. Subscribe now for £4.95/month

Gospel’s most celebrated female artist Cece Winans, is set to release her brand-new project Believe for it next week. In this interview with Premier's Muyiwa, Winans shares her heart for the project saying: “I want to ignite faith in the people of God. It’s time for us to release our faith for the impossible.” In part two, Ibe catches up with the American actor and comedian Kel Mitchell, and finds out how the actor has been able to maintain a strong Christian faith, even while working in Hollywood.   The Profile is brought to you in association with Premier Christianity magazine. Subscribe now for £4.95/month

Dimas Salaberrios is the director of the documentary film America's Hidden War: Chicago. In this incredibly moving interview with Muyiwa, he talks about his life selling drugs, the chilling realities for children as young as nine living in Chicago and what he thinks the Church and parents should do to help tackle the problems. In part two Cassandra Maria speaks to the singer Janel Antoneshia about her faith journey, her new music and why she's glad Tom Jones didn't turn around for her on The Voice.    The Profile is brought to you in association with Premier Christianity magazine. Subscribe now for £4.95/month

The pastor, preacher, writer and broadcaster speaks to Premier’s Andy Peck about his humble start in a Scottish mining town, and pastoring a number of churches with the Salvation Army. This included a spell in California and an appearance on ITV’s Jeremy Kyle Show to give a Christian angle in the heat of a debate about the ethics of same-sex relations. He says: “in the middle, was me trying to explain to the studio audience and the ITV audience that Christianity and total insanity, we're not related terms!”   His heart to reach the many who aren’t aware of the Gospel led to his writing novels for the mass market and his lifelong enthusiasm for radio is behind his delight at presenting on Premier Christian Radio’s on Friday mornings. At 74 years of age, he’s still exercising daily and has the enthusiasm of a 20 year-old. 

The multi-award-wining singer and actress with millions of social media followers spoke to Ruth Jackson about Hamiliton, how she came to faith and clinging to God through tough times. You can read more about Rachelle An Go in the February issue of Premier Christianity magazine https://www.premierchristianity.com/Past-Issues/2021/February-2021/Rachelle-Ann-Go-How-the-musical-theatre-superstar-became-a-Christian

The singer, TV presenter and actress (EastEnders, Fame: The Musical) Mica Paris chats to Premier's Ibe about her brand new album, simply entitled Gospel. The two also discuss her career in music, including her platinum selling 1988 album So Good, and Mica reveals why prayer is so important to her. "But don't go telling people I'm going to be a pastor," she laughs.    The Profile is brought to you in association with Premier Christianity magazine. Subscribe now for £4.95/month

On this week's episode, we're talking to two of the biggest names in Gospel music. Deitrick Haddon talks with Muyiwa about being in the inauguration of Mr Biden, how he feels about Trumps 'reckless' leadership, false prophets and whether he decided to purchase a gun. In part two, Giantkiller Ibe speaks to The Voice finalist Michelle John about her new inspiring album, what life was like growing up, and how she survived domestic abuse.   The Profile is brought to you in association with Premier Christianity magazine. Subscribe now for £4.95/month

In this in-depth interview, the Scottish singer-songwriter and worship leader Steph Macleod speaks to Premier Christianity's Sam Hailes about overcoming drug and alcohol dependency. Steph was homeless when he found Christ, but that decision to surrender everything to Jesus marked an important turning point in his life story. That's not to say the singer gives the impression that his life is all rosy. Far from it. Steph says he's still "in recovery", and when asked how Covid-19 has affected him, he replies "It's been a really tough year." Others have called him open and honest, but Steph says he needs to be real in order to survive. Alongside writing worship songs, he's also a mental health advocate. In opening up about his struggles, Steph says he's always mindful of the support of his friends, family and church community in helping him stay sober. The pair also discuss Steph's new single, 'No Other God', which is out now, and discuss how the digital world is allowing the singer - along with the wider Celtic Worship community - to reach audiences all over the world.    The Profile is brought to you in association with Premier Christianity magazine. Subscribe now for £4.95/month

He may have a science student (studying one enzyme in the broad bean plant), but even as a relatively young Christian, Eddie Arthur always sensed that God wanted him to be a missionary in a French-speaking nation. He'd assumed that meant somewhere in Europe. But it turned out God had something very different in mind. In this in-depth interview, Eddie explains how God called him and his wife to Ivory Coast in order to translate the New Testament into the Kouya language (something which had never been undertaken before). In opening up about the 12 year adventure with Premier Christianity's Sam Hailes, Eddie also reflects on world missions, the impact of Covid-19, and why the significant decisions he took during his tenure as CEO of Wycliffe Bible Translators were so controversial in some quarters.    The Profile is brought to you in association with Premier Christianity magazine. Subscribe now for £4.95/month

It is a double bill this week as Rev Cindy Kent interviews music legend Sir Cliff Richard about why, despite everything, his faith has never been stronger, and how he's learned to forgive both his accuser and the BBC. In part two, Cara Bentley meets the Down's Syndrome campaigner Heidi Crowther who is taking the government to court, in an attempt to change the law around abortion.    You can also read the interview with Sir Cliff in Premier Christianity magazine.    The Profile is brought to you in association with Premier Christianity magazine. Subscribe now for £4.95/month

Award–winning conservation expert Dr Simon Stuart is the newly-appointed Executive Director of the leading Christian conservation charity Arocha International. He talks to Justin Brierley about the tragic death of leading members of Arocha in a road accident in South Africa in 2019, and his own life as a Christian at the cutting edge of researching wildlife conservation. For Arocha International: https://www.arocha.org The Profile is brought to you in association with Premier Christianity magazine. Subscribe now for £4.95/month

Skip Heitzig, pastor of Calvary Church in Albuquerque and author of the new book ‘Biography of God’ joins Justin Brierley.  They chat about Skip’s journey of faith, pastoring a megachurch through a pandemic, and his new book which aims to show sceptics, saints and seekers the true character of the biblical God. The Profile is brought to you in association with Premier Christianity magazine. Subscribe now for £4.95/month 

The poet and podcaster Joshua Luke Smith tells Sam Hailes about his upbringing in Croydon and Pakistan, how he overcame the "triple threat" childhood diagnosis of dyspraxia, ADHD and dyslexia and why he wants to be "a merchant of mystery". The son of missionary parents, Joshua is now based in Bath and releases music with Orphan No More. While admitting he no longer resonates with the 'charismatic evangelical' brand of Christianity he was raised with, and says his Christianity is "evolving", he also holds fond memories of the faith he was raised in. In this wide-ranging interview, Joshua talks about the tension between making art and paying the bills, explains how he met his wife, and opens up about the journey he's been on in understanding racism in the UK.    The Profile is brought to you in association with Premier Christianity magazine. Subscribe now for £4.95/month

Two of the worship leaders behind the hugely popular worship song 'The Blessing' talk to the Premier Christianity magazine team about the story behind the song. Kari Jobe co-wrote 'The Blessing' with her husband, while Tim Hughes organised the popular UK cover version of the song, which went viral in May and has subsequently had millions more views on YouTube. In part one, Megan Cornwell hears Kari's testimony, and discovers how the singer has learned to praise God in tough times. In part two, Tim Hughes tells Sam Hailes how the popular cover version came together.    Click here to read Megan Cornwell's interview with Kari Jobe in Premier Christianity magazine   The Profile is brought to you in association with Premier Christianity magazine. Subscribe now for £4.95/month

Robert Glover OBE and his wife, Liz, have spent several decades working in China to establish its first ever adoption programme, in which they've seen over 1 million children taken out of State-run orphanages and placed within loving families, many of them Christian. In this in-depth interview the couple share remarkable stories of the children whose lives have been changed thanks to their work, as well as the miraculous ways God has made straight their paths as they've sought to follow his lead.   The Profile is brought to you in association with Premier Christianity magazine. Subscribe now for £4.95/month

Paul Cowley was behind bars at the age of 15. In the years since then, he's served in the army, become a Christian and has even been awarded an MBE for his services to ex-offenders. He's also pioneered the Alpha course in prisons. No wonder his autobiography is entitled Thief, Prisoner, Soldier, Priest. In this in depth interview, Rachel Matthews finds out more about Paul's fascinating and varied life story.   The Profile is brought to you in association with Premier Christianity magazine. Subscribe now for £4.95/month

It was a prophetic word given at Soul Survivor which inspired Gemma Hunt to pursue a career in the media. In this in depth interview with Premier's Ruth Jackson, Gemma opens up about her fascinating career, how a poor relationship choice affected her faith and why 'being silly' is the key to working well with children. In part two, Premier's Simon Tuck sits down with the MOBO award winning artist Faith Child to talk about his music, and how he's coped following his father passing away from Covid-19 earlier this year. The rapper also reveals his influences and tells stories about how his music has changed people's lives for the better.  You can also read our interview with Gemma Hunt in the latest issue of Premier Christianity magazine. The Profile is brought to you in association with Premier Christianity magazine. Subscribe now for £4.95/month

The Big Daddy Weave frontman Mike Weaver speaks to Premier's Simon Tuck about his life and faith, and how God has sustained him and the rest of the band through hard times and illness. Mike's brother Jay who plays bass in the band nearly died in 2016, and had to be rushed to hospital where he had both feet amputated. The band are one of the most popular Christian groups in the world right now. And in this interview, Mike reflects on his childhood, upbringing and the lessons God is teaching him. The Profile is brought to you in association with Premier Christianity magazine. Subscribe now for £4.95/month  

Following the news that Rabbi Lord Jonathan Sacks has passed away at the age of 72, we are re-airing this interview with him. The former chief rabbi and winner of the 2016 Templeton Prize spoke to Justin Brierley about Jewishness, Jesus and Richard Dawkins. 

Jonathan Viera has performed across the globe in a variety of roles and musical styles from Mozart through to John Adams. He's also well known in the Christian community for his Christian and gospel albums. In this interview with Premier's Simon Tuck, Jonathan chats about his upbringing in the Plymouth Brethren, how his faith has developed over time and his recent health struggles. Speaking from experience, he also says many church leaders need to stop worrying about their sermons and start prioritising pastoral care. Reflecting on his long, varied and successful career, he says, "Someone like me doesn't normally end up in opera...I remember standing in Downing Street thinking my father could never have conceived of this". But fame comes and goes, and he says it's something he's learned to hold onto lightly. The Profile is brought to you in association with Premier Christianity magazine. Subscribe now for £4.95/month

It's a double bill of The Profile this week as Premier's Simon Tuck sits down with two Christian music stars. Chris Eaton has written many classic songs including Sir Cliff Richard's 'Saviour Day' and Amy Grant's 'Breath of Heaven'. In part two, Simon meets the Gospel star Jekalyn Carr to find out more about her early rise to prominence, at just the age of 11, and the story behind her songs, including her 2016 hit single 'You're bigger'. The Profile is brought to you in association with Premier Christianity magazine. Subscribe now for £4.95/month

The legendary guitarist and Christian singer-songwriter Bryn Haworth has released over 20 albums and toured the length and breadth of the UK over the course of his four-decade-long career. In this interview with Premier's Simon Tuck, Bryn tells the story of how he and his wife Sally were saved out of a classic 1960s 'sex, drugs and rock and roll' lifestyle and into what became known as the 'Jesus movement'. He also talks about his prison ministry, how Covid-19 has effected him and perhaps most importantly, what snacks he'd take on a road trip. The Profile is brought to you in association with Premier Christianity magazine. Subscribe now for £4.95/month

It could be argued X Factor launched his career, but Jahmene doesn't share that perspective. In this in-depth interview with Premier Christianity's Sam Hailes, the singer explains why he wouldn't recommend the show to upcoming singers. He also opens up about the horrific abuse he received as a child, and how God revealed himself in the midst of his pain. He also talks about his determination to stay true to himself - and his faith - even when faced with outside pressures, including that of past record labels he was associated with. Having released his first Gospel EP independently, which includes hit song 'Father to the Fatherless', Jahmene is feeling confident in who he is. But citing what he calls the "politricks" inside churches, he believes God is calling him "outside of the church".  You can also read this interview in the latest issue of Premier Christianity magazine. Subscribe now for £4.95/month

He might be one of America’s biggest entertainers, but life hasn’t always been rosy for the larger-than-life celebrity. Steve Harvey says his rags to riches story is entirely down to the grace of God. In this exclusive interview with Premier's Muyiwa, Harvey describes quitting his job in pursuit of a career in stand-up comedy as a “leap of faith”. It landed him homeless for three years, living in his car, travelling the length and breadth of the USA searching for gigs. Eventually his big break came. But success is a double-edged sword, and it would take him down a path away from the values of his childhood. It was many years before he rediscovered that the God he'd turned his back on was waiting with open arms.   You can also read this interview in the latest issue of Premier Christianity magazine

Northern Irish worship leader Robin Mark is the writer of much-loved worship songs 'Days of Elijah', 'Revival' and 'Take us to the river'. In this look back on his career with Premier Christianity's Sam Hailes, Robin explains his songwriting process and reflects on whether or not his longing for revival in Belfast has been fulfilled. The pair also discuss the remarkable moment we're living in, with singing in churches banned due to Covid-19. And listen out for the exclusive on Robin's forthcoming album, available later this year...   The Profile is brought to you in association with the UK's leading Christian magazine. Subscribe to Premier Christianity now for only £4.95/month at premierchristianity.com/subscribe/

Iona has represented Great Britain in speed skiing and holds the title of Ladies British Overseas Champion and New Zealand Ladies Champion. She successfully represented Ireland in the World Equestrian Games and the World Championships. But despite medals and acclaim she always felt something was missing, In this in-depth interview, Iona shares some of her greatest challenges - including a horrific ski injury that changed the course of her life - and describes how she met Jesus one day in her kitchen.   The Profile is brought to you in association with the UK's leading Christian magazine. Subscribe to Premier Christianity now for only £4.95/month at premierchristianity.com/subscribe/  

Leroy Logan is a Christian, a black man and a police officer. And he sees no contradiction between any of these aspects of his identity. The former superintendent played a significant role in the Metropolitan police, which he served in for 30 years. He is a former chair of the Black Police Association and was involved in the investigation of the murder of Damilola Taylor. In this interview with Premier Christianity's Sam Hailes, Leroy explains how despite his father being attacked by the police, he was resolute in following his calling. He also reveals how his wife leaving him kickstarted his journey to faith and an experience of being 'born again'. Part of his life story is due to feature in an upcoming BBC One film 'Small Axe' where John Boyega (Star Wars, Pacific Rim, Attack The Block) will play Leroy. The Profile is brought to you in association with the UK's leading Christian magazine. Subscribe to Premier Christianity now for only £4.95/month at premierchristianity.com/subscribe/

Ari Sorko-Ram has had a varied life and career which has included working as a professional Rugby player in France, an actor in Hollywood and a church leader in Israel. In this in depth interview with Premier Christianity’s Sam Hailes, Ari explains the theology behind Messianic Judaism and takes on popular and sometimes controversial misconceptions about Israel and the Bible. The founder of charity Maoz Israel is adamant that “all Israel will be saved”, as stated in Romans 11. In explaining his interpretation of this verse, Ari also comments on the state of the Church in Israel today, and explains why he is a supporter of both Jews and Arabs in the land.   The Profile is brought to you in association with the UK's leading Christian magazine. Subscribe to Premier Christianity now for only £4.95/month at premierchristianity.com/subscribe/

In this week's double bill, Rachel Matthew meets the prolific Christian author Max Lucado and Claire Musters interviews well known leadership coach and popular speaker Jo Saxton.   You can also read the interviews with Max Lucado and Jo Saxton on the Premier Christianity website.   The Profile is brought to you in association with the UK's leading Christian magazine. Subscribe to Premier Christianity now for only £4.95/month at premierchristianity.com/subscribe/

Damian Stayne is a healing minister in the Catholic Church. He is the founder and the leader of Cor et Lumen Christi, which aims to equip fellow Catholics in supernatural ministry. In this in-depth interview with Premier Christianity's Megan Cornwell, Damian shares his remarkable testimony, comments on deliverance ministry, healing and other miraculous and supernatural events he's personally witnessed. The Profile is brought to you in association with the UK's leading Christian magazine. Subscribe to Premier Christianity now for only £4.95/month at premierchristianity.com/subscribe/  

The American pastor's new and much-praised book The Ruthless Elimination of Hurry is out now. And you can get it FREE when you subscribe to Premier Christianity magazine. To celebrate this great offer, we're replaying our in depth interview with John Mark, which covers the themes of the book, plus how he's reaching one of America's most secular cities. You can also read this interview at premierchristianity.com  

He has more followers than the Archbishop of Canterbury and tens of thousands watch his 60-second sermons. BBC News has dubbed him “an internet sensation”, but what message is Rev Chris Lee seeking to communicate? In this in depth interview with Premier Christianity's editor Sam Hailes, Chris shares his testimony and offers his views on online church and the Church of England's digital strategy.    You can also read this interview at premierchristianity.com The Profile is brought to you in association with Premier Christianity magazine. Subscribe to the magazine now for only £4.95/month  

Lisa Fields is head of the Jude 3 Project, an apologetics organisation with a focus on helping African Americans better understand and share their faith.   Lisa speaks to Megan Cornwell about: the types of objections to Christianity raised by people of colour; racism in the Church; what it's like as a woman ministering in male-dominated spheres; US politics; and much more.    The Profile is brought to you in association with Premier Christianity magazine. Subscribe now for only £4.95/month

Ken Costa is part of the leadership team at Holy Trinity Brompton and has had a career in banking and finance. In this interview first broadcast in 2016 he talks about growing up in apartheid South Africa, his Christian conversion and his recent book ‘Know Your Why’   The Profile is brought to you in association with Premier Christianity magazine. Subscribe now for only £4.95/month

On this week’s show, Premier’s Maria Rodriguez speaks to Sam Robertson from the Glasgow Prophetic Centre about the unusual supernatural encounters he’s experienced during times of prayer ministry. In the second part of the show, Cara Bentley interviews the shadow faiths minister Janet Daby MP about her testimony.   The Profile is brought to you in association with Premier Christianity magazine. Subscribe now for only £4.95/month

Dr Francis Collins is a renowned geneticist who directs the National Institutes of Health in the USA, at the forefront of finding a vaccine for Covid-19. He was recently awarded the Templeton Prize. In this interview he speaks to Justin Brierley about how he came to faith and answers a variety of questions on evolution, Christianity and atheism.   The Profile is brought to you in association with Premier Christianity magazine. Subscribe now for only £4.95/month

Church leader Eric Gaudion endured one of the most painful conditions known to humanity for 22 years. He was admitted to hospital more than 100 times and went through 30 surgeries before a groundbreaking transplant gave him his life back. In this interview with Sam Hailes, Eric explains how his suffering effected his relationship with God, opens up about the serious mental battle which accompanied his illness and comments on how the coronavirus lockdown has reminded church leaders of the importance of caring for the chronically unwell and long term sick in their congregations. The Profile is brought to you in association with Premier Christianity magazine. Subscribe now for only £4.95/month You can also read this interview in Premier Christianity magazine.

In this week’s episode, church planter and author Pete Hughes talks to Sam Hailes about coronavirus, racism, ministering to millennials and Gen Z in London and why and how the church he leads in Kings Cross has grown. The figures - 40 congregants to 700 in a ten year period - have impressed many, but Pete is up front about the challenges as much as the highpoints. One of his passions is helping Christians understand the big picture of God’s story. His debut book All Things New is designed to communicate “God’s burning desire is to bring restoration to every sphere of society.” And in a tongue in cheek reference to his brother’s song, Pete believes heaven won’t involve sitting on a cloud and singing ‘Here I am to Worship’. There’s something much better in store for us, he says.  The Profile is brought to you in association with Premier Christianity magazine. [premierchristianity.com/subscribe] Subscribe now for only £4.95/month

Rich Wilson is passionate about raising up the next generation of students who love Jesus, and then unleashing them on the world. In this in-depth interview he shares his own journey to faith and reveals some of the remarkable things God has done along the way. 

Paul S Williams is CEO of Bible Society, which for 200 years has sought to bring the Bible alive to every man, woman and child.  He shares how he was dramatically brought back to faith as a student at Oxford University before going on to work in financial analysis in the UK. He has held research and teaching positions in Canada on the theology of the marketplace and leadership. His latest book is ‘Exiles on Mission: How Christians can thrive in a post-Christian world’.  https://www.biblesociety.org.uk/products/9781587434358/  The Profile is brought to you in association with Premier Christianity magazine. Subscribe now for only £4.95/month

It’s a double bill of The Profile podcast this week. Rachel Matthews is in conversation with bestselling author and founder of Messengers International, Lisa Bevere. In part two Claire Musters interviews Rev Anthony Thompson who lost his wife in the Charleston Church massacre five years ago. The Profile is brought to you in association with Premier Christianity magazine. [premierchristianity.com/subscribe] Subscribe now for only £4.95/month   

Dr Rowan Williams is hoping to move back to Wales. “I don’t know exactly when it will be possible” he tells Catherine Larner, “but I still hope to be back by late autumn. I’m waiting to see what lies ahead, but I’m not looking to fill the diary. I’m hoping there may be an opportunity to loosen up and unclutter slightly...I can dream!” To return to Wales would bring things back full circle. It’s where he grew up and where, as a bishop, spent the happiest years of his life. A poet, a theologian and the former Archbishop of Canterbury (2002–12), Dr Williams has been the Master of Magdalene College Cambridge for much of the past decade, inhabiting a vast 1960s red-brick property on the edge of the city centre. Life is busy with numerous responsibilities but it’s stimulating and sociable and follows a rhythm of life, he says. Each day incorporates morning and evening prayer, a time of silence, meetings, work and time with family and friends or colleagues. In this wide-ranging interview, Dr Williams opens up about past mistakes, comments on the frenetic pace of life facing many, and explains how the Rule of St Benedict can help us. The Profile is brought to you in association with Premier Christianity magazine. Subscribe now for only £4.95/month

Nigel Ipinson-Fleming is a Gospel artist, keyboard player and music producer with a history playing in bands such as Orchestral Manoeuvres in the Dark and The Stone Roses. First broadcast in 2016, in this interview he chats with Muyiwa Olarewaju about his life, music and journey of faith. The Profile is brought to you in association with Premier Christianity magazine. Subscribe now for only £4.95/month

In this week’s show, Rachel Matthews meets the five time world record holding Paralympian Stef Reid. In this in depth interview, Stef talks about the accident which changed her life and how her perspective on what it means to be a Christian has matured over time.   Read her story in full here The Profile is brought to you in association with Premier Christianity magazine. Subscribe now for only £4.95/month

It’s a double bill of The Profile podcast this week. Premier’s John Pantry is in conversation with the much loved Christian singer-songwriter Marilyn Baker, while our head of news sits down with the former Finish deputy Prime Minister (and larger than life character) Timo Soini. The Profile is brought to you in association with Premier Christianity magazine. [premierchristianity.com/subscribe] Subscribe now for only £4.95/month

It's not often that you put indie-rock star and third-generation church leader in the same sentence, but there's nothing kosher about the way Kings Kaleidoscope's Chad Gardner works, not, at least when it comes to creating worship music. In a desperate search for 'realness' in faith and following deep personal reflection on his battle with his mental health, Seattle-based front-man Chad (and his band of friends) released their fifth studio album, Zeal - a controversial mixtape of hip-hop beats, head-swinging guitar riffs and an 'f bomb-ing' prayer that ultimately encapsulates the honest ups and down of one man rediscovering child-like faith. The Profile is brought to you in association with Premier Christianity magazine. Subscribe now for only £4.95/month

David Bennett’s testimony doesn’t fit into any neat categories. His story of going from an atheist gay rights activist to born again evangelical Christian is far from straightforward. It involves a homophobic attack, prophetic words and searching for meaning in the New Age movement. Elements of his story will shock his fellow members of the LGBT community, not least his decision to lead a celibate lifestyle and “give up” his sexuality. But David’s message is also deeply challenging to Christians, not least his views on what ‘Church as family’ really means, and his willingness to still identify as LGBT. All of this means, that in the conversations which have followed the release of his autobiography A War of Loves, David has learned to follow the advice of eminent theologian Tom Wright and “have tea with his enemies”.   The Profile is brought to you in association with Premier Christianity magazine. Subscribe now for only £4.95/month  

Recorded at the very beginning of the coronavirus outbreak, Rhidian Brook speaks to Premier Christianity’s Sam Hailes about Godbothering – Rhidian’s new book which collates some of his best musings as first broadcast on BBC Radio 4’s Thought For The Day. The author and broadcaster explains his dramatic conversion, how his faith has matured over time and recalls an awkward moment which involved him preaching on public transport. The Profile is brought to you in association with Premier Christianity magazine. Subscribe now for only £4.95/month  

When 15-year-old Natasha Ednan-Laperouse died from a severe allergic reaction to an unlabelled Pret a Manger sandwich in 2016, her young face graced newspapers across the country and her story travelled the world. What failed to be reported at the time was that her father, Nadim, who was with her when she collapsed, had a powerful spiritual experience that ultimately led him to faith. In this in-depth interview, Nadim describes how he saw angels hovering over his daughter's body, and how the experience led him to the same Christian faith that was so important to Natasha. Read the full story in Premier Christianity magazine.

Known as ‘Napalm Girl’, Kim Phuc is recognised globally as the nine-year-old running from a napalm attack during the Vietnam War. The image was recently voted the most iconic photo of all time. In this in depth interview with Premier’s Jess Lester, Kim shares her remarkable story of how she came

Justin Brierley speaks to church leaders, evangelists and authors from lockdown in their homes about what the Coronavirus means for them, their ministry and the church. Evangelist JJohn talks about faith instead of fear in the storm, RT Kendall believes God is trying to get our attention, Rob Parsons reflects on how to make lockdown work for families and Philip Yancey reflect on God’s purposes in the crisis.

Will van der Hart is a pastoral chaplain at Holy Trinity Brompton, London and a director of The Mind And Soul Foundation. Since struggling with anxiety following his experience of the 7/7 London bombings Will has worked at the forefront of helping Christians and the church to understand and engage mental health issues. He speaks to Justin Brierley about his life and ministry and how Christians who suffer from anxiety and depression can maintain a positive outlook during the Coronavirus quarantine. www.mindandsoulfoundation.org

Andrew Brunson is a American pastor who lived in Turkey for more than 20 years as a missionary with his wife. He was imprisoned for two years on what religious freedom campaigners say were bogus terrorism-related charges including leading Turkey’s failed 2016 coup and being the head of the CIA for the Middle East. His detainment drew international attention from world leaders including Donald Trump. The US president even put sanctions on Turkey, demanding that it set Brunson free. Tola Mbakwe, journalist at Premier Christian News, interviewed Brunson a little over a year after his release. He opened up about his harrowing experience in Turkish prisons, what it was like to be used as a political bargaining chip, and also the experience of having a massive prayer movement centred on him, ultimately strengthening his weakened faith and leading to his freedom.

“How do we bring enemies together?” That’s the question which has dominated much of Canon Andrew White’s ministry. For many years he was the only Anglican vicar in Baghdad, staying there throughout the most recent Iraq war. He only left when the Archbishop of Canterbury Justin Welby told him: “You’re more use to us alive than dead, Andrew”.  In this in-depth interview with Premier Christianity’s Sam Hailes, Canon Andrew opens up about his early life, his ongoing health issues and why he’s been investigated twice by the Charity Commission. The Profile is brought to you in association with Premier Christianity magazine. For a free sample copy of the latest issue visit premierchristianity.com/freesample

Working in Nigeria as a medical missionary, David and his wife Shirley thought they were safe. “That was an illusion,” David now says. On 13 October 2017 the couple were awakened by a pounding on the door. The power lines had been cut as a gang stormed the compound and kidnapped them along with Alanna Carson and Ian Squire. Soon afterwards, Ian was shot dead. In this interview with Premier Christianity’s Sam Hailes, David explains how the other three Christians survived the ordeal, why the Bible was “fundamental” to their survival, and what the traumatic experience taught him about God’s sovereignty. The Profile is brought to you in association with Premier Christianity magazine. For a free sample copy of the latest issue visit premierchristianity.com/freesample

Nims Obunge loves an acronym. Hope stands for “Helping Other People Excel”, while Dream means “Develop Real Examples and Mentors”, he says. As a preacher and pastor, Nims is passionate about motivating his people to live for God and make a difference in their communities. His Christian roots are evident. He talks about growing up in the context of 6am family prayer meetings and how he’s gone onto lead Freedom’s Ark church in north London. Best known for founding The Peace Alliance and working at various levels of society including working with the police to tackle gun crime and helping to rehabilitate prisoners, Nims isn’t a stranger to the world of politics and public service. And he’s unfazed by the suggestion that independent candidates like him are at a disadvantage. Speaking of the upcoming election on 7 May he says, “I know I can win”. The Profile is brought to you in association with Premier Christianity magazine. For a free sample copy of the latest issue visit premierchristianity.com/freesample Listen to our interview with the Conservative candidate Shaun Bailey here. Premier is approaching the other candidates with interview requests.  

‘Open the Eyes of My Heart’ has been sung by millions of Christians across the globe. Writer Paul Baloche, who has also penned many other hit worship songs including ‘Hosanna’ and ‘Our God Saves’, never expected his music to travel as much as it has. Ahead of the release of his new record Behold Him, Paul talks about the tension found in promoting his own music (admitting the publicity side is his “least favourite part” of the album making process). He also talks about the importance of discipleship and mentoring, and explains his philosophy of giving other Christians the benefit of the doubt, or in his words, ‘a grace pass’. The Profile is brought to you in association with Premier Christianity magazine. For a free sample copy of the latest issue visit premierchristianity.com/freesample

When God told Nona Jones to quit her job, she was shocked. But minutes after she handed in her notice, Facebook called. They were offering her the chance to become the company’s head of global faith partnerships. In this in-depth interview with Premier Christianity’s Sam Hailes, Nona explains what the role involves and how she’s helping churches get the most out of social media. She also opens up about the trauma and abuse she suffered as a child, how she was able to forgive and move on, and why perfectionism and untamed ambition can be so dangerous. Nona, who is on first names terms with Mark Zuckerberg, also gives her views on parents allowing children to have their own smartphone at a young age, and responds to accusations that Facebook has been limiting freedom of speech on its platform. The Profile is brought to you in association with Premier Christianity magazine. For a free sample copy of the latest issue visit premierchristianity.com/freesample You can also read the interview online here

In this bonus edition of The Profile podcast, Marcus Jones interviews the controversial evangelist Franklin Graham ahead of his planned UK tour. The son of the late great Billy Graham is due to visit eight cities across the country but has been dealt a number of blows as all eight venues have canceled his booking, citing the division that his appearance would cause. In this interview, Franklin responds to recent criticisms, says he’s determined the tour will still go ahead and offers an apology to those in the LGBT community who have been offended by his previous remarks. The Profile is brought to you in association with Premier Christianity magazine. For a free sample copy visit premierchristianity.com 

Peter Lynas joined the Evangelical Alliance weeks after CEO Gavin Calver told this programme the organisation needed to be “braver”. Is moving a former barrister into this public-facing role part of a new strategy for the 170 year old organisation? In this in-depth interview, Peter talks about the need for more thoughtful Christian voices in the public sphere on hot topic issues such as abortion, sexuality and transgender, why he doesn’t believe Christians in the UK are persecuted and how shrinking the Gospel down to “Jesus loves you” is “borderline heresy”. Peter also shares some of his own story, how he’s a ‘thinker’ more than a ‘feeler’ and why our culture’s craving for identity, relationships and purpose is such promising news for the UK Church.   The Profile is brought to you in association with Premier Christianity magazine. For a free sample copy of the latest issue visit premierchristianity.com/freesample

Noël Tredinnick tells Justin Brierley about his life and work in musical ministry, leading the All Souls Choir and Orchestra and Prom Praise musical celebrations for several decades.  Following his 70th birthday he talks about handing the All Souls conductor baton on to others, and his life and passion for music and Jesus, including some musical extracts from Prom Praise down the years. https://www.allsoulsmusic.org/about/noel-tredinnick/ You can hear Noël every Sunday on Premier Christian Radio https://www.premierchristianradio.com/Shows/Sunday/All-Souls-in-Praise/Episodes

Will Torrent eats chocolate for breakfast. He recommends the practice. “Your taste buds are ready to have something exciting!” he says. In this in-depth interview with Premier Christianity’s editor Sam Hailes, the award-winning chef shares his remarkable testimony, recalls his experiences working in Heston Blumenthal’s kitchen and explains why he’s so fascinated by bananas. He also talks about his recent trip to Ivory Coast with Tearfund and how he’s become more involved in the leadership of his local church.      The Profile is brought to you in association with Premier Christianity magazine. For a free sample copy of the latest issue visit premierchristianity.com/freesample  

Having grown up as a Christian in Iran, Katia Adams is deeply aware of the persecution which many Christians are facing around the world. In this interview with Claire Musters, Katia explains how her Grandparents witnessed a revival in their Iranian home and how her parents have since witnessed 300,000 Muslims becoming Christians over the past three decades. For Katia, living the Christian life means being radical, and she has no problem referring to herself as “crazy”. In more recent years, the co-director of Frequentsee has felt called by God to write a book on the subject of men and women in the Church. The complementarian vs egalitarian debate often rages, including in the Newfrontiers network of churches that Katia has been a part of. But while theologians continue to argue, Katia is concerned the stakes are high, and the Church must learn to speak with one voice on this important topic. She remembers being told by a fellow Christian, that for her to preach would be an act of disobedience to God. That led her to research what the Bible really says on the subject. “I was probably in my mid 20s when I decided I had to settle this issue,” she remembers. “I said to God ‘I don’t want to live in rebellion. If you’re telling me that I’m not to do what I thought I was made for then I want to follow that.’” The Profile is brought to you in association with Premier Christianity magazine. For a free sample copy of the latest issue visit premierchristianity.com/freesample You can also read this interview in the January and February issues of Premier Woman Alive.

In this week’s show Megan Cornwell sits down with veteran missionary Simon Guillebaud to hear about the miraculous ways God has protected him and his family during decades of missionary work in what was once the most dangerous nation on earth. Guillebaud describes how God brought 164,000 people to faith through his ministry and why he believes Christians in the UK can be blind to the spiritual war going on around them. He shares extraordinary conversion stories as well as a personal insight into how God called him into long-term evangelistic ministry. The Profile is brought to you in association with Premier Christianity magazine. For a free sample copy of the latest issue visit premierchristianity.com/freesample

In this week’s show Sam Hailes sits down the Conservative candidate for the 2020 London Mayoral election, Shaun Bailey. Although he grew up in a Christian family, Bailey soon turned his back on the Christian faith. In this interview he explains what brought him back, how Christians can be a force for good in politics and why his 20+ years of experience in youth work has prepared him for his political career. We will also be publishing interviews with other candidates standing for election in 2020 in the coming weeks. The Profile is brought to you in association with Premier Christianity magazine. For a free sample copy of the latest issue visit premierchristianity.com/freesample  

In this week’s show Sam Hailes sits down with the San Francisco-based author and activist Mark Scandrette to talk about a whole host of issues which centre around spiritual formation, the gospel and whether we need to re-think the way we do Church. Mark’s own process of theological deconstruction began when his best friend fell asleep part-way through one of Mark’s sermons! Today, this prophetic teacher’s great passion is to move Christians away from an information-based way of thinking about faith, to a much more practical expression which involves not just assenting to correct doctrinal beliefs, but modelling their day to day life on Jesus himself. Mark believes this way of living, which takes the Sermon on the Mount seriously, can radically change a person’s life, and free them from worry and anxiety.     The Profile is brought to you in association with Premier Christianity magazine. For a free sample copy of the latest issue visit premierchristianity.com/freesample

In this week’s show Sam Hailes sits down with the Grammy nominated Gospel artist William McDowell to hear how the miraculous has been invading Deeper Fellowship in Florida. McDowell grew up in a strong Christian family and made a commitment to God at a very early age. Over the past two decades he’s been crying out to God for revival. That prayer was finally answered on May 22, 2016 when the presence of God entered his church of Deeper Fellowship in Orlando and has yet to leave. In this in depth interview, McDowell shares some of the remarkable stories of healing which have been taking place. He also opens up about his latest, critically acclaimed album The Cry, and gives his view on Kanye West’s apparent conversion to Christianity.    The Profile is brought to you in association with Premier Christianity magazine. For a free sample copy of the latest issue visit premierchristianity.com/freesample  

In this week’s show Cara Bentley delves into the life and faith of the outspoken and at times controversial politician, Ann Widdecombe. When Widdecombe last spoke to Premier ten years ago, she was approaching the end of her career as an MP, looking forward to retirement on the south coast, and hoping a peerage would be on the horizon. She talked about her lifelong allegiance to the Conservative Party and assured us she would never go on Big Brother “and certainly not Strictly Come Dancing”. Well, life is full of surprises and a lot has changed over the past decade. She’s no longer retired, and after 55 years in the party, she isn’t a Conservative either, having moved to Nigel Farage’s Brexit Party. Despite vowing never to go on Big Brother or Strictly, she’s since thrown herself into both! Listen to the interview now to hear the conversation in full.  The Profile is brought to you in association with Premier Christianity magazine. For a free sample copy of the latest issue visit premierchristianity.com/freesample

On this week’s show, Rev Nadim Nassar, the Church of England’s only Syrian priest, talks to Megan Cornwell about growing up in Syria and the constant threats to his life which led him to a deep sense of trust in Jesus and to his calling as a peacebuilder. He shares stories of the Syrian Muslim experiencing profound visions of Christ in the war-torn country at the moment and he shares a strident message for the CofE’s leaders, whom he says have failed “to step up their challenge to the government” and end the conflict in his home country. The Profile is brought to you in association with Premier Christianity magazine. For a free sample copy of the latest issue visit premierchristianity.com/freesample 

On this week’s show, Mark Sayers, the pastor of Red Church in Melbourne, Australia talks to Premier Christianity’s Sam Hailes about his life and ministry. Mark speaks on a variety of topics related to church and culture, including his own experience of failed church plants, the dangers of “digital capitalism” and his definition of revival as ‘renewal gone viral’. He also opens up about his own mental health struggles and shares a touching story of how waking up to graffiti plastered across his church building one Easter Sunday led to an unexpected moment of Christian unity. Follow Mark on Twitter @sayersmark The Profile is brought to you in association with Premier Christianity magazine. For a free sample copy of the latest issue visit premierchristianity.com/freesample   

It’s a double bill this week. The Nashville based country star Josh Turner talks to Premier’s Simon Tuck about his music career, and why faith matters to him more than anything. Then in part two, Maria Rodriguez meets co-author of The Bible of the Year, Pippa Gumbel. The Profile is brought to you in association with Premier Christianity magazine. For a free sample copy of the latest issue visit premierchristianity.com/freesample 

On this week’s show, Ortis Deley talks to Premier Christianity’s Sam Hailes about his Christian upbringing, why he doesn’t go to church anymore and the ups and downs of a career in broadcasting. Ortis is best known for previously fronting the BBC’s flagship morning show Live & Kicking, and today presenting The Gadget Show on Channel 5. In this in-depth interview, he answers questions on young people, technology and opens up about how a blunder on live TV almost cost him his career. The Profile is brought to you in association with Premier Christianity magazine. For a free sample copy of the latest issue visit premierchristianity.com/freesample

Andrew Peterson’s biggest struggle is believing the truth that God loves him. Not because God isn’t loving, he explains, but because “I’m not lovable”. It’s a surprising admission from a man who has sold thousands of records and tours internationally. In this in depth interview with Premier Christianity’s Sam Hailes, Andrew opens up about a variety of topics, including his battle with depression, why community is so important to him, and his reflections following the ‘Is he worthy?’ music video controversy. Speaking during the first ever Hutchmoot gathering in Oxford, Andrew also recalls growing up in the “troubled culture” of the American South, how his faith has matured over time and why he recently became a bee-keeper. The Profile is brought to you in association with Premier Christianity magazine. For a free sample copy of the latest issue visit premierchristianity.com/freesample

During a recent visit to London, Shane Claiborne met with Premier Christianity’s Sam Hailes to discuss a number of issues close to his heart. Claiborne is well known as a social activist, author and campaigner who has long advocated for nonviolence and simple living. Recalling his formative experience working with Mother Theresa, Claiborne speaks about the importance of loving the person in front of you and following Jesus in everything. He is part of a movement know as Red Letter Christians, who emphasise the words of Jesus printed in red in some Bibles. The co-founder of that movement Tony Campolo recently had a change of heart on same-sex marriage. Has Shane been on a similar journey? And does he really think the problems of gun violence in the US and knife crime in the UK can be overcome? https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U7JLQOH8fRQ&feature=youtu.be The Profile is brought to you in association with Premier Christianity magazine. For a free sample copy of the latest issue visit premierchristianity.com/freesample

On this week’s show, the founder of The Message talks to Megan Cornwell about his life and ministry. Andy Hawthorne OBE was previously a member of the band The Worldwide Message Tribe, and has been involved in evangelistic efforts for over 25 years. In this in-depth interview, Andy explains why he believes the UK Church needs to do a better job at raising up evangelists, and comments on how 2020 is set to be a significant year for anyone passionate about sharing the gospel. The Profile is brought to you in association with Premier Christianity magazine. For a free sample copy of the latest issue visit premierchristianity.com/freesample

As his long-running Premier Christianity column draws to a close, Rob Parsons chats to editor Sam Hailes about his ministry with Care for the Family, the disruptive nature of technology and the power of vulnerability. The former lawyer has sold thousands of books, including The Sixty Minute Father and The Money Secret, and is known as an expert on family issues, but he’s as friendly, relatable and down to earth as he has ever been. In this interview the 71 year old reflects on life growing up in rural Wales, the importance of honesty and vulnerability, why he often feels like a “rubbish Christians” and what the future holds for him. The Profile is brought to you in association with Premier Christianity magazine. For a free sample copy of the latest issue visit premierchristianity.com/freesample You can also read this interview in the latest issue of the magazine.

On day three of his new job as CEO of the UK’s oldest and largest evangelical unity movement, Gavin Calver met Premier Christianity’s Sam Hailes to discuss his vision for the organisation to become ‘braver’ and ‘kinder’. The pair also talked about secularisation, LGBT issues, social media, revival, the death of nominalism, whether or not preachers should talk about Brexit and why a global view of Christianity should fill us with hope.  The Profile is brought to you in association with Premier Christianity magazine. For a free sample copy of the latest issue visit premierchristianity.com/freesample

The actor best known for his portrayal of Agatha Christie’s Hercule Poirot talks to Premier’s Justin Brierley about his faith. David Suchet, CBE was converted after reading Romans 8 in a hotel room Bible. In this in-depth interview he reveals what it’s like to be a Christian in the worlds of stage and screen, why he’s not a very good evangelist and what it was like to record an audio version of the entire Bible.   The Profile is brought to you in association with Premier Christianity magazine. For a free sample copy of the latest issue visit premierchristianity.com/freesample

Simon Thomas seemingly had it all. A successful and enviable career in TV, a loving family and a strong Christian faith. Then at quarter to six on Friday 24 November 2017, his world fell apart. Thomas was “utterly convinced” that his wife, Gemma, would be OK when she was first taken ill. But just three days after being diagnosed with acute myeloid leukaemia, the 40-year-old passed away. Simon was devastated. His prayers for healing had gone unanswered, and he was now faced with breaking the news to the couple’s eight-year-old son, Ethan. As the days, weeks and months rolled by, Thomas would process much of his grief in public; writing raw and honest blogs and producing heartbreaking YouTube videos, often about how he was trying his best to support his son. In this in-depth interview, he opens up to Premier’s Marcus Jones about faith, unanswered prayer and his confidence that death is not the end.  The Profile is brought to you in association with Premier Christianity magazine. For a free sample copy of the latest issue visit premierchristianity.com/freesample

Dr. Amy Orr-Ewing is a leading evangelist and apologist who is senior vice president with Ravi Zacharias International Ministries. She talks to Justin Brierley about how her family converted to Christ, doing evangelism from a young age, confronting liberal Bible scholars at Oxford University, taking Bibles to the Taliban, and why her husband is called Frog. Amy and other speakers will be helping young people to wrestle with big questions about faith at Reboot in London on Sat 21 Sep 2019 https://www.rebootglobal.org/ The Profile is brought to you in association with Premier Christianity magazine. Subscribe now and get 2x FREE tickets to Ligonier’s The Light of the World Conference (worth £118!). premierchristianity.com/subscribe    

Sam Hailes meets the well-known theologian and minister Sinclair Ferguson on this week’s show. Sinclair is Chancellor's Professor of Systematic Theology at Reformed Theological Seminary in the US, and an assistant minister at St. Peter's Free Church of Scotland in Dundee. In this in depth interview he explains how he was called into ministry and shares lessons learned over many decades of teaching the Bible in both academic and local church contexts.   Dr Ferguson will be one of the speakers at Ligonier Ministries’ The Light of the World conference in London. Get 2 FREE tickets (worth £118) to the event when you subscribe to Premier Christianity magazine. Visit premierchristianity.com/subscribe

It’s a double bill on The Profile this week. Megan Cornwell meets Mim Skinner, the author of Jailbirds: a book about women’s prisons, while in part two, Sam Hailes talks Steve Maltz, a Christian author best known for his teaching on the Hebraic roots of Christianity. The Profile is brought to you in association with Premier Christianity magazine. Request a free copy at premierchristianity.com  

Megan Cornwell meets Bernard Hibbs from The Bruderhof – a Christian community where all possessions are shared, faith sits at the centre of daily life and crime is non-existent. In part two, the Bishop of Burnley Philip North talks about his work in the Church of England and his desire to take the Gospel to the UK’s most deprived areas. The Profile is brought to you in association with Premier Christianity magazine. To find out more about The Bruderhof, read Megan Cornwell’s feature

On this week’s show, Megan Cornwell sits down with comedian Bec Hill, who is currently performing at Edinburgh Fringe. Born in Australia but now based in London, Bec Hill’s one liners have been featured in The Telegraph, The Guardian and Buzzfeed. She is best known for incorporating arts and crafts into her stand-up routines (which she describes as “paper-puppetry”). In this interview she explains how despite losing faith in some of the church contexts she’s experienced, her belief in Jesus has survived. She also explains why it’s harder to be a woman on the comedy circuit than it is a Christian. The Profile is brought to you in association with Premier Christianity magazine. To request a free sample copy visit premierchristianity.com/freesample

On this week’s show, Tim Farron tells Sam Hailes how reading books on prophecy and apologetics played a key part in his decision to become a Christian. Farron also comments on how the “trials and tribulations” he experienced while leading the Liberal Democrats have enabled him to be more open about his faith.  The Profile is brought to you in association with Premier Christianity magazine. You can read this interview in the latest edition. To request a free sample copy visit premierchristianity.com/freesample  

On this week’s show, the national leader of New Wine sits down with Premier Christianity’s Sam Hailes. Paul Harcourt explains how encountering the Holy Spirit at an early age dramatically altered his relationship with God and allowed him to “let go” of an over-reliance on his ability to rationally explain his faith. As New Wine marks 30 years of summer conferences, Paul also reveals exactly how the name ‘New Wine’ came about (it’s not what you think). He also explains why he believes the UK Church could be on the cusp of a new move of the Spirit and comments on how the event has changed its approach when it comes to booking well known speakers. The Profile is brought to you in association with Premier Christianity magazine. To request a free sample copy of the latest print issue visit premierchristianity.com/freesample  

There are people walking the streets today who were formerly on death row in Uganda. Alexander Mclean is the man who has helped win their freedom. The founder of African Prisons Project, is a lawyer, humanitarian and award winning philanthropist who has long been passionate about setting the captives free. In this interview with Premier Christianity’s Sam Hailes, Alexander – a “prisoner by choice” – shares more about his life, faith and work. The Profile is brought to you in association with Premier Christianity magazine. To request a free sample copy of the latest print issue visit premierchristianity.com/freesample  

The co-founder of Christian charity CARE reflects on a lifetime of campaigning in this in-depth interview with Premier Christianity’s Sam Hailes. Lyndon Bowring may not have changed his mind on the fundamental issues, but the way he talks about difficult and often divisive subjects has. The 71-year-old has long been an Elim minister and prolific teacher and still describes himself as an evangelist. But he’s also been a bridge builder working for unity among Christians, often behind the scenes. In this interview, Lyndon talks about his upbringing in Wales, how CARE was birthed out of the Nationwide Festival of Light and what the future holds both for him and the ministry he founded. You can also read this interview in Premier Christianity magazine. To request a free sample copy of the latest print issue visit premierchristianity.com/freesample

Pastor and founder of Power The Fight, Ben Linsday, shares his faith journey with Ruth Jackson and talks about his work with at-risk young people in South London. He offers advice about what the Church can do to curb the rise in youth violence. Ben challenges Christians to think about diversity and looks at the impact of racism on communities. He also share some parenting stories. Ben’s book We Need To Talk About Race (SPCK) is out now. Folow Ben on Twitter @BCWLindsay The Profile is brought to you in association with Premier Christianity magazine. To request a free sample copy of the latest print issue visit premierchristianity.com/freesample

Kojo Anim talks to LadyT about his time on Britain’s Got Talent, why he did the show, getting the golden buzzer from Simon Cowell and why that moment changed everything. He also talks about being broke, homeless, in foster care and the impact that had on his life growing up. Kojo will be on a national tour from 6th Feb 2020. Tickets available here - http://www.kojoanim.co.uk/ Follow Kojo on IG & Twitter @kojoanimlive The Profile is brought to you in association with Premier Christianity magazine. To request a free sample copy of the latest print issue visit premierchristianity.com/freesample

Natalie Collins is a Gender Justice Specialist who works with Christian organisations and others to educate them on gender equality and the abuse of women. Collins was in an abusive marriage herself and gave birth to her second child prematurely after her ex-husband attacked her. In this in-depth interview with Premier Christianity’s Megan Cornwell she explains how Christian purity culture led to her marrying her abuser. Collins shares her thoughts on the barriers to gender equality in churches and describes how it’s possible to be a Christian and a feminist when it comes to complex ethical issues such as abortion. Collins’ new book Out of Control: Couples, Conflict and the Capacity for Change (SPCK) is out now. The Profile is brought to you in association with Premier Christianitymagazine. To request a free sample copy of the latest print issue visit premierchristianity.com/freesample

Pete Portal tells Justin Brierley his conversion story (involving a fight in a takeaway restaurant) and what that led him to establish a Christian rehab community in one of South Africa’s most infamous ghettoes. Pete shares the joys, struggles, miracles and heartache of ministering to and living with Muslim gang members and drug addicts. Pete’s book No Neutral Ground (Hodder & Stoughton) is out now . Folow Pete on Twitter @Pete_Portal The Profile is brought to you in association with Premier Christianity magazine. To request a free sample copy of the latest print issue visit premierchristianity.com/freesample  

The Rev Dr Clifford Hill is a sociologist, theologian and founder of the magazine Prophecy Today. In this in-depth interview with Premier Christianity’s Sam Hailes, Dr Hill recalls his early life and explains how he was called to ministry at the tender age of 12, with his preaching ministry beginning soon afterwards. “What I preached in those day I don’t know, I shudder to think!” he quips. The founder of Issachar Ministries also opens up about his work in the inner-city areas of London, and explains why prophecy should focus on “forthtelling” the Word of God rather than “foretelling” the future. In commenting on some of the biggest issues facing us today (including Brexit and family breakdown) he says it is “not sufficient” for church leaders to “just teach the Bible, or to speak about the love of God. We have to understand what’s happening in society today in order to be really effective with the gospel”.  Dr Hill is the author of over 30 books on a range of subjects. His most recent work is entitled The Reshaping of Britain (Wilberforce Publications) and is out now. The Profile is brought to you in association with Premier Christianity magazine. To request a free sample copy of the latest print issue visit premierchristianity.com/freesample

Long before Rachel Treweek shattered the so-called stained-glass ceiling by becoming the first female diocesan bishop in the Church of England, she was challenging the status quo. As a young girl growing up in leafy Hertfordshire, the church she attended – a local traditional Anglican parish – had an all-male robed choir. With a keen sense of her own worth and talents, she asked the priest if she could join, and the rest, as they say, is history. Quite literally, in the bishop’s case, as she went on to become the first woman clergy to sit in the House of Lords years later. In this in-depth interview with Premier Christianity’s deputy editor Megan Cornwell, Bishop Rachel explains how she became a Christian, and what a calling to ministry looked like for her. She also comments on some of the more tricky issues facing the Church of England including divisions over gay marriage and how to handle transgender issues. You can also read this interview in the latest issue of Premier Christianity magazine. To request a free sample copy of the latest print issue visit premierchristianity.com/freesample

Rev Dr David Hilborn has spent most of his career working in theological education. The current principal of Moorlands college was previously principal of St John’s College, Nottingham and also played an influential role in the beginnings of St Mellitus College, now one of the largest training colleges in the Anglican Church worldwide.  In this in-depth interview with Premier Christianity’s Sam Hailes, David shares his life story, which has included pastoral ministry in local churches, working for the Evangelical Alliance and switching denominations from the United Reformed Church to the Church of England. He also comments on the current Brexit divisions, and expresses his “frustration” with Christian leaders who preach sermons which are disconnected from the scriptures. The Profile is brought to you in association with Premier Christianity magazine. To request a free sample copy of the latest print issue visit premierchristianity.com/freesample

Jonathon Douglass (aka ‘JD’) has been making music with Hillsong United since the very beginning. What began as a church youth band based in Sydney, Australia has become a global phenomenon. Hillsong United have led worship in some of the world’s biggest stadiums, and their songs (‘Oceans’, ‘So Will I’, ‘Hosanna’) are sung by churches on every continent. At the end of May, the band released their 14th live album, entitled People. In this interview with Premier Christianity’s Sam Hailes, JD explains how the release was inspired in part by a sense of nostalgia as the band reflected on the early days of making music. JD also claims that despite Australia being a “secular nation”, the church is “on the rise” and suggests he’s witnessing “the early days of a fresh revival”. The Profile is brought to you in association with Premier Christianity magazine. To request a free sample copy of the latest print issue visit premierchristianity.com/freesample

In November 2015, RC Sproul Jr woke up in a hospital bed and discovered he’d been arrested for driving under the influence of alcohol. Not only was it the worst day of his life, but it was also, paradoxically, one of the best. “It shattered any façade or capacity to pretend I’m better than I really was” he explains. But it wasn’t the first time he’d found himself in the Christian press for all the wrong reasons. A year earlier, it was revealed RC had accessed a website dedicated to promoting extra-marital affairs. At the time, he released a statement explaining he’d signed up in “a moment of weakness”, but hadn’t committed adultery. Nevertheless, these moral failings begged the question: should RC step back from writing Christian books, leading Bible studies or even tweeting? Many have answered ‘yes’, and RC has a large number of critics, especially online. In this in depth interview with Premier Christianity’s Sam Hailes, RC opens up about his sin and takes full responsibility for his mistakes. He also answers tough questions on what (if anything) should disqualify a person from ministry and what repentance and restoration really look like.  The Profile is brought to you in association with Premier Christianity magazine. To request a free sample copy of the latest print issue visit premierchristianity.com/freesample

Andrea Williams, 53, is intense, driven and uncompromising. She often refers to Jesus as “the Lord Jesus Christ” and believes Christians have been “ashamed of the gospel” for too long. In this in-depth interview with Premier Christianity’s editor Sam Hailes, she does not mince her words, as she challenges Christians to be bolder in speaking up for the truth. The founder of Christian Concern also defends her political and legal work and opens up about her recent battle with cancer. Williams believes Christians have become too worried about how the world views us. “We are so concerned about our Twitter feeds”, she says. “You know we are so concerned about appearing to welcome, to reflect the culture, as opposed to contend and set the culture, which is what of our forefathers did when they took the Gospel to other nations.” https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PTyg5QlijIM  The Profile is brought to you in association with Premier Christianity magazine. Click here to read the online version of this interview, or to request a free sample copy of the latest print issue visit premierchristianity.com/freesample

Is there such a thing as a Calvinist comedy writer? Yes, there is! And his name is James Cary. The 42 year old self professing sit-com geek has worked on the BBC’s Miranda, My Family and Bluestone 42. He’s written plays including A Monk’s Tale and most recently A Turbulent Priest. He is also member of the Church of England’s general synod. In this in-depth conversation with Premier Christianity’s Sam Hailes, James opens up about his early life, gives his view on whether Jesus was funny and challenges Christians to put more effort into the public reading of scripture. “We’re not firing blanks here, when we’re reading the scriptures. It is a sharp sword” he says. He also comments on issues relating to free speech and wades into the ‘should Christians watch Game of Thrones’ controversy. Follow James on Twitter @sitcomgeek The Profile is brought to you in association with Premier Christianity magazine. For a free sample copy of the latest issue visit premierchristianity.com/freesample

Premier’s Lady T meets the woman who has been dubbed “Britain’s godmother of gospel". Karen Gibson is the founder and director of The Kingdom Choir, which is best known for performing ‘Stand by Me’ at the wedding of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle. In this in depth conversation, Karen shares her story and recounts what it was like to be involved in such a momentous occasion. The Profile is brought to you in association with Premier Christianity magazine. For a free sample copy of the latest issue visit premierchristianity.com/freesample

Premier’s Ian Britton sits down with the Christian author and international speaker Simon Ponsonby on this week’s show. Growing up, Simon was aware of a strong spiritual heritage and can remember attending Exclusive Brethren church services. Later in life, he “lost the plot” and turned away from God. “My most intense prayers were the girls I’d slept with wouldn’t get pregnant”, he remembers. In this in-depth interview, Simon reveals how a series of “God incidents” led to an “immediate transformation” in his life. Today, Simon is passionate about teaching on the centrality of the cross and the Gospel. The Profile is brought to you in association with Premier Christianity magazine. Click here to read Simon Ponsonby’s Letter to the UK Church in Premier Christianity magazine. For a free sample copy of the latest issue visit premierchristianity.com/freesample

Imagine authoring a book that sells millions of copies around the world. Then imagine receiving messages, years later, from people who say they were deeply damaged and hurt by your work. What would you do? Joshua Harris was just 21 when I Kissed Dating Goodbye was released. His book warned that dating could cause irreparable emotional damage. The solution was to embrace courtship – where couples pursue friendship before romance, and parents are given permission to offer advice and help guide the relationship. Harris also advocated for strict boundaries within this: no kissing, no holding hands and no being alone together before you tie the knot. Perhaps most famously, he recommended only beginning a relationship with someone if you could picture yourself marrying them in the near future. Now, he’s apologising for writing it and is the subject of a new documentary film entitled I Survived I Kissed Dating Goodbye. The film, which is available to watch free online, sees Harris sitting down with his fiercest critics and listening to their stories. Having heard their testimonies, Harris has now decided to withdraw his book from sale. In this in depth interview with Premier Christianity’s Sam Hailes, he explains what made him re-evaluate the work, and what he’s learned in the process. Follow Joshua on Twiter @Harris_Josh   You can also read this interview on the Premier Christianity magazine website. Or for a free sample copy of the latest print issue visit premierchristianity.com/freesample

Dr Phil Fernandes is Senior Pastor of Trinity Bible Fellowship and president of the Institute of Biblical Defense. As a Christian apologist, he has engaged in debates with sceptics across the USA for decades. In this edition of the show he sits down with Justin Brierley for a live audience conversation at Quilcene Bible Church. GET THE PODCAST - via iTunes or Podbean Listen to more of Dr Phil Fernandes at Sermonaudio.com The Profile is brought to you in association with Premier Christianity magazine. For a free sample copy of the latest issue visit premierchristianity.com/freesample

In part one of this week’s show, Premier Christian Radio’s Rachel Adebiyi meets Casey J, the Atlanta-born gospel singer best known for her hit song "Fill Me Up". She talks about her heart for serving other Christians and why this comes before other labels such as “artist”. She also reveals why she’s nervous about releasing her second album The Gathering. In part two, Sam Hailes meets three of the people behind the brand new History Channel docudrama Jesus: His Life which begins on Easter Sunday at 9pm. Greg Garrett, the actor who plays Jesus, explains his excitement at the opportunity to play “the most famous person in history”, while executive producer Ben Goold and bestselling author and historian Simon Sebag Montefiore reflect on how the story of Christ has shaped Western civilisation. Follow Casey J on Twiter @Caseyjmusic Simon Sebag Montefiore - @simonmontefiore Greg Barnett - @_gregbarnett The Profile is brought to you in association with Premier Christianity magazine. For a free sample copy of the latest issue visit premierchristianity.com/freesample

It’s a double bill of The Profile this week. In part one, YCW’s Ruth Jackson interviews Dan & Jo Watson, the youth and young adults pastors at Hillsong Church UK. They speak openly about the challenges of ministering together as a husband and wife, where the line is between publicly talking about struggles and leading well and why Hillsong has attracted so many young people. In part two, Sam Hailes sits down with Mark Taylor, the president of Tyndale House – the largest privately owned Christian publisher in the world, responsible for publishing Left Behind, The Living Bible and many other popular titles. The pair discuss the challenges of Christian publishing in the age of the internet, how decisions are made on which authors to publish and how Tyndale are helping to make the Bible available to people around the world who don’t speak English. The Profile is brought to you in association with Premier Christianity magazine. For a free sample copy of the latest issue visit premierchristianity.com/freesample

In his early years as a marriage counselor, Dr Gary Chapman noticed how couples would voice similar complaints regarding their marriage. One would say, "I feel like he doesn’t love me." The other would protest, "I don’t know what else to do! I’m doing everything I should be doing." Recognising a pattern, Dr Chapman asked himself, “When someone said, ‘I feel like my spouse doesn’t love me,’ what do they actually want?” Surprisingly, their answers fell into five categories, revealing a unique approach in how to effectively love another person. The result is a discovery of the 5 love languages - a concept which has helped millions of people across the world. On a recent trip to the UK, Dr Chapman sat down with Sam Hailes, editor of Premier Christianity magazine to explain what these languages are and how understanding them can help couples, parents and singles. Dr Chapman also unpacks his own background working as a pastor in the USA, and comments on what lessons the Church can learn from the current #MeToo moment.  Follow Gary on Twitter @DrGaryChapman The Profile is brought to you in association with Premier Christianity magazine. For a free sample copy of the latest issue visit premierchristianity.com/freesample    

Brian Broderson is the senior pastor of Calvary Chapel Costa Mesa in California. He speaks to Justin Brierley about his conversion as a young surfer dude and his ministry with wife Cheryl in the USA, UK and Eastern Europe. After his father-in-law Chuck Smith (the founder of Calvary Chapel) passed away in 2013, Brian took over leadership of the flagship church in Costa Mesa and the Calvary Chapel Network. Brian speaks about the joys and challenges of leadership transition and following in Chuck’s footsteps. Follow Brian on Twitter @BrianBrodersen The Profile is brought to you in association with Premier Christianity magazine. For a free sample copy of the latest issue, which features an interview with the Archbishop of Canterbury Justin Welby, visit premierchristianity.com/freesample

The 105th Archbishop of Canterbury Justin Welby took office nearly six years ago. He quickly rose through the ranks of the Church of England after becoming a Priest in his late 30s. His appointment as Archbishop married his strategic skills as a former oil executive with a full bodied faith, nurtured as a member of Holy Trinity Brompton, one of the UK's leading charismatic evangelical churches. Since taking office, Welby hasn't been afraid to wade into the political ring, even addressing the Trades Union Congress last year. Welby says its not his place to be party political, but Jesus wasn't afraid to speak out on politics. On Brexit, the Archbishop has argued the burden of proof is on those arguing for 'no deal', "to show it will not harm the poorest and most vulnerable." In this in-depth interview, Justin Brierley hears more from Justin Welby on issues relating to sexuality, prayer, evangelism and more.  In the second part of today's show, Sam Hailes sits down with the founder of Hope for Justice, Ben Cooley. The author of Impossible is a Dare tells the story of how he booked the NEC arena in Birmingham at the age of 26, with no organisational or financial backing. The reason? Cooley had become obsessed by the issue of modern day slavery and was determined to end it. What began as an awareness-raising opportunity is now a fully fledged organisation, operating all over the world. And the former opera singer is still convinced the evil of human trafficking can be stopped. His work has taken him all over the world, and his book has been endorsed by the Prime Minister Theresa May, but Cooley says the "pinch yourself" moments aren't when he's rubbing shoulders with powerful or influential leaders, but when he witnesses victims being rescued.  Follow Justin Welby on Twitter @JustinWelby Follow Ben Cooley on Twitter @BenCooley The Profile is brought to you in association with Premier Christianity magazine. For a free sample copy of the latest issue, which features an interview with the Archbishop of Canterbury Justin Welby, visit premierchristianity.com/freesample

Life completely changed for Simon Edwards in September 2009 when he became a Christian in his prison cell. Up until then, he had been in and out of prison, caught up in burglary, drug dealing and violence. He had received threats to his life from drug gangs. His crimes culminated in a life sentence, with a minimum of six years, for armed robbery. At his lowest point he attempted suicide, but then found himself locked up with a Christian cellmate, whose influence led Simon to faith. Upon leaving prison, Simon set up Walk Ministries, a Christian organisation based in Stoke On Trent which helps released prisoners to develop a new life. Premier's central correspondent Rachel Matthews hears the full story Follow Simon on Twitter @JESUSWALK52 The Profile is brought to you in association with Premier Christianity magazine. For a free sample copy of the latest issue, which features an interview with the Archbishop of Canterbury Justin Welby, visit premierchristianity.com/freesample              

Music can go to a lot of places where the preachers can't go. That's one of the things Tim Jupp discovered while touring the world as part of the band Delirious? Whether he was playing in front of the Pope, or touring Asia with Joyce Meyer, Tim was  able to interact with Christians of all backgrounds and denominations. In this in-depth interview, he reminisces about his 17 years playing keyboards in the world's biggest Christian band and explains how that chapter of his life came to a close. Today, he's the founder and pioneer of Big Church Day Out (BCDO) - the largest Christian festival in the UK, which is held annually in Sussex. Going from a musician to a festival organiser might sound like a dramatic change of career, but Tim believes that Delirious and BCDO share the "same DNA" - a love for music, a passion for unity and the unique ability to bring tens of thousands of Christians together in one place for the purpose of worshipping Jesus.  Big Church Day Out will take place 25-26 May 2019 at Wiston House, West Sussex. To find out more and book tickets visit bigchurchdayout.com Follow Big Church Day Out on Twitter @bigchurchdayout

Francis Chan left his thriving US megachurch, turned his back on the fame that ministry had brought him and moved his family to a developing country. But whatever you do, don’t call him a radical. Sam Hailes hears the full story. Read this interview in the latest issue of Premier Christianity magazine. Request a free copy    

Dr John Dickson is an Australian Bible scholar, Anglican minister and writer. He is the founder of The Centre for Public Christianity (CPX) in Australia and the author of books such as The Doubters Guide to Jesus. He tells Justin Brierley about how he found faith, life in an an evangelistic rock band, helping Hillsong write their song 'The Creed', making the case for Jesus to sceptics, and his new film documentary For the Love of God: How the Church is Better and Worse Than You Ever Imagined. Follow John on Twitter @johnpauldickson The Profile is brought to you in association with Premier Christianity magazine. For a free sample copy of the latest issue, which features an interview with Francis Chan, visit premierchristianity.com/freesample    

It's a double bill on The Profile this week. In the first part of the show, Premier's Eno Adeogun sits down with Don Moen - the writer of many classic worship songs including 'God will make a way', 'Give thanks' and 'Our Father'. The pastor, producer and former president of Integrity Music explains how in his early ministry, he would play 1,000 concerts a year. This relentless touring schedule continued for over a decade as he spend time working with Terry Law ministries. "After that I never took Don Moen so seriously anymore," he explains, "because the rough edges got knocked off".  In the second part of this week's show, Premier's political editor Martyn Eden meets Dame Caroline Spelman MP. The Conservative Member of Parliament for Meriden has long been up front about her Christian faith. In this interview, Dame Caroline explains how she somewhat reluctantly pursued a career in politics. She also responds to recent calls to end the practice of Parliamentary Prayers, and gives her view on the current Brexit debates.  The Profile is brought to you in association with Premier Christianitymagazine. For a free sample copy of the latest issue, which features an interview with Francis Chan, visit premierchristianity.com/freesample    

Phil Loose is the managing director of one of the biggest Christian music labels in the world. In this in-depth interview, the managing director of Integrity Europe shares what he's learned from working as a church leader, a session musician and most recently, a record label boss. Premier Christianity's Sam Hailes puts a selection of tricky questions to Phil including, "Why do some worship songs travel around the world, and others don't?", "Is it true that worship songs all sound the same?" and "Is there money to be made from Christian music?" Drawing on his experiences working for a variety of organisations including Spring Harvest, ICC Studios and Kingsway, Phil also explains why he believes Christian musicians need to be given permission to "play brilliantly and not feel bad about it".  The Profile is brought to you in association with Premier Christianity magazine. For a free sample copy of the latest issue, which features an interview with Francis Chan, visit premierchristianity.com/freesample  

Jackie Pullinger’s classic autobiography Chasing the Dragon remains a best-seller among evangelicals, despite being released more than 30 years ago. It tells the story of how this plucky young woman from Croydon boarded a ship with nothing but a £10 note and a prayer that God would show her where to get off. When the boat pulled into Hong Kong in 1966, God ordered her to disembark and Pullinger the missionary obeyed. In this rare interview, the 74 year old missionary opens up about her lifetime of service, which has included seeing drug addicts set free through praying in tongues, what she's learned and why she won't be retiring anytime soon.   You can also read this interview in Premier Christianity magazine  To take advantage of Premier Christianity's limited HALF PRICE subscription offer visit premierchristianity.com/subscribe

It's a double bill of The Profile this week. In the first part of today's show, Alex Williams interviews Jack Philips about the much-discussed 'gay cake' case. The Colorado baker cited religious reasons when declining to make a cake for a gay couple. He was taken to court over the decision and the case reached the USA's supreme court, where Phillips won. In this interview, the Christian opens up about the legal proceedings he's endured and the toll its taken on him. In the second part of today's show, the Greek Orthodox Patriarch of Jerusalem Theophilos III shares his reflections on church unity, the political situation in Jerusalem and discusses his own personal faith story with Premier Christianity's Sam Hailes. His Most Godly Beatitude visited Premier Christian Radio's studios shortly after his meetings with Prince Charles and the Archbishop of Canterbury Justin Welby, both of whom have a keen interest in the plight of Christians in the Middle East.   To take advantage of Premier Christianity's limited HALF PRICE subscription offer visit premierchristianity.com/subscribe    

US Messianic Jew, author and radio host Michael Brown joins Justin Brierley to tell his conversion story in a wide ranging interview covering the hot-button issues Michael engages in. As a Jewish kid into rock music, Michael became addicted to hard drugs, but had a radical conversion to Christ. Today he debates with Jews and LGBT proponents, defends Charismatic Christianity, runs a popular broadcast ministry and has written a new book Donald Trump is not my saviour: An evangelical leader speaks his mind about the man he supports as president Follow Michael on Twitter @DrMichaelLBrown To take advantage of Premier Christianity's limited HALF PRICE subscription offer visit premierchristianity.com/subscribe  

"I'll punch your face in, mate". That's what Mez Mcconnell said to a fellow student while he was at Bible college. "I guess the guys weren't ready for that kind of discourse," he says, looking back. Mez was involved in violent crime from the age of 14. He committed fraud, spent time in prison and describes his teenage years as "manic" and "wild". So when he became a Christian, a lot had to change. It didn't happen overnight, and Mez laughs at the idea its all been plain sailing since (see the aforementioned Bible college altercation). "I thought church was for pansies" he remembers. But as he read the book of Romans, he was convicted of his own sin, realising he couldn't blame his difficult past or upbringing for the life he was now living. Mez is often outspoken on issues relating to class and Christianity, describing evangelicalism as "unbelievable elitist". He also claims prominent church leaders have ignored what he's had to say, dismissing him as having a chip on his shoulder. And when it comes to fundraising for his organisation 20schemes - which plants churches on Scottish housing estates - he says "no one in England or Scotland" would give him money, so he's decided to fundraise in the USA instead. In this wide-ranging conversation with Premier Christianity's Sam Hailes, Mez delves into all these issues and more. Follow Mez on Twitter @mez1972 To take advantage of Premier Christianity's limited HALF PRICE subscription offer visit premierchristianity.com/subscribe

You know you’re famous when you have a Wikipedia page, and Tim Alford's band achieved that (and more!). The four-piece Christian rock band known as [dweeb] was founded by Tim in 2002 and after nine years of success, including multiple EPs, albums and tours - in both the Christian and mainstream worlds - they split. Tim has since gone on to do schools work, and has become the head of Limitless, the youth wing of the Elim church in the UK. He spoke with Emily Howarth, deputy editor of Premier Youth and Children’s Work about the highs and lows of touring Europe, what he's learned about preaching and what happened when BBC Three paired his old band with a sleaze punk group called Paparazzi Whore.  Follow Tim on Twitter @timdweeb To take advantage of Premier Christianity's limited HALF PRICE subscription offer visit premierchristianity.com/subscribe  

Many Christians are wary of engaging with anything remotely spooky, but Baptist minister Rev Peter Laws takes a different approach. Born with "the spooky gene", Peter is fascinated by the macabre. From his early life before coming to faith, to his time as a youth worker and now ordained minister, Peter has always been interested in Halloween, witches, ghosts and horror films. In his conversation with Premier Youth and Children's Work editor Ruth Jackson, Peter explains he has "a healthy level of scepticism" toward some elements of the paranormal. He also argues that Christians need to take a more measured approach to some of the spooky topics we've typically avoided.  Follow Peter on Twitter @revpeterlaws To take advantage of Premier Christianity's limited HALF PRICE subscription offer visit premierchristianity.com/subscribe

Don't assume a generation can only be touched through walking into a Church building. That's Martin Smith's message in this in-depth interview. The former Delirious? frontman is more convinced than ever that God can work miracles through the music that's played in pubs and clubs (and the Almighty isn't reliant on that music carrying a 'Christian' label in order for him to work supernaturally). The writer of worship classics such as 'Did you feel the mountains tremble?', 'Majesty' and 'Lord you have my heart' opens up about a variety of subjects, including how travelling to third world nations changed the direction of his music. He also expresses concern that a consumerism mentality might be skewing how some young people view church services. Smith has sat through hundreds of media interviews over the course of his career, but as well as us asking the questions he's probably heard before ("Will Delirious? ever get back together?"), we also manage to put one question to Martin Smith that he's never been asked before... Follow Martin Smith on Twitter @MartinSmithTV To take advantage of Premier Christianity's limited HALF PRICE subscription offer visit premierchristianity.com/subscribe    

For more than three decades Rick Warren has been an incredibly influential Christian leader in the USA. Saddleback Church, planted from scratch by a 26-year-old Warren and his wife Kay in 1980, quickly grew in size as the fledgling pastor’s down-to-earth sermons drew increasingly large crowds. Today more than 20,000 people attend weekend services at the multi-site church in Orange County, California. Warren is also the author of the best-selling Christian book. Ever. The Purpose Driven Life has sold more than 30 million copies since its publication in 2002 and is the second most translated book in the world after the Bible. But in 2013 tragedy struck the Warren household as the couple's son Matthew, who had long battled depression, took his own life. In this interview with Premier's Justin Brierley, Warren opens up about how these events have impacted his faith. Click here to read the written version of this interview in Premier Christianity magazine Follow Rick Warren on Twitter @RickWarren To take advantage of Premier Christianity's limited HALF PRICE subscription offer visit premierchristianity.com/subscribe

The writer of one of the bestselling works of Christian fiction of all time drops by the studio this week for a chat with Claire Musters. Redeeming Love has sold millions of copies and been translated into over 28 languages. Francine Rivers has won countless awards for her writing, but many of them are in a cupboard in her garage! "In the Christian world we shouldn't be raising one above the other", she says. In this in depth interview, Francine also opens up about her writing process and explains why she believes Christian works of fiction should always point the reader back to scripture. Click here to read the written version of this interview in Premier Christianity magazine Follow Francine Rivers on Twitter @FrancineRivers To take advantage of Premier Christianity's limited HALF PRICE subscription offer visit premierchristianity.com/subscribe  

What would you say if a member of the Trump family asked you to put together an evangelical advisory board for the then presidential candidate? This was position Johnnie Moore found himself in. The long-time religious freedom campaigner decided to fulfil the request, but with certain caveats. In this interview he gives Premier Christianity's Sam Hailes all the details. Moore was visiting the UK partly to address a group of 37,000 Muslims (he believes Christians should care about religious freedom for all). Moore also explains how witnessing Christians in India take a 'Martyr's oath' had a profound effect on him: "I felt like I was standing in the book of Acts. These Christians were willing to die for a faith that I struggled so hard to live". In the second part of today's show, Andrew Haslam drops in for a chat about church planting in London. Andrew began his ministry working alongside his father Greg Haslam at Westminster Chapel, a church which is famous for its previous leaders, including Martyn Lloyd-Jones and RT Kendall. But sensing a call from God, Andrew left that congregation in 2014 to plant Grace Church London. In this interview he explains why growing up in a pastor's home was a privilege rather than a burden, talks about why he felt drawn to the Waterloo area of London, and describes how the capital needs "thousands more churches".  Follow Johnnie Moore on Twitter @JohnnieM Follow Andrew Haslam on Twitter @AAHaslam To take advantage of Premier Christianity's limited HALF PRICE subscription offer visit premierchristianity.com/subscribe

Meet the man who turned up three hours late to his first date with his now wife, says he "crashed and burned" at university and had to endure 12 failed attempts at church planting. Tim Matthews is remarkably up front about the moments in his life which haven't gone to plan. But behind these tales is a much larger story of God's faithfulness. In 2014, the former accountant moved his family from London to Bournemouth to take on St Swithun's church. What began with a small team of just 11 adults is now a thriving church, regularly gathering 600 people on a Sunday. In this in depth interview, Tim recalls many of the highs and lows of his church planting experience with Premier Christianity's Sam Hailes. For more from Tim, see his new book LOVE CHURCH: Join the adventure of hope (Hodder & Stoughton)   Follow Tim on Twitter @timjmatthews To take advantage of Premier Christianity's limited HALF PRICE subscription offer visit premierchristianity.com/subscribe

Christians need to rediscover their heritage of creating, not complaining. That's according to David Stroud, the senior leader of Christ Church London. In this interview with Premier Christianity's Sam Hailes, the pastor, who has been leading churches for over 25 years, explains his vision for the "spiritual, social and cultural renewal" of London and beyond.  David is married to Baroness Stroud and believes that while there isn't one single "Christian perspective" on Brexit or welfare, Christians should be engaged politically. One of his biggest passions is cultural renewal and he founded the Everything Conference in order to equip Christians to work toward the flourishing of their communities. Explaining how the Church is growing faster in London than anywhere else in the UK, Stroud says there are good reasons to be optimistic about the future. But he's also aware that culture has changed dramatically in recent years, arguing we shouldn't assume people have much background understanding of Christianity. In this in depth and wide ranging conversation, David also recalls the formative experience of ministering in Hong Kong alongside Jackie Pullinger and explains the reasons why Christ Church London is no longer affiliated with the Newfrontiers network. Finally, he describes social media as both a "hugely powerful thing we've unleashed", and something we haven't fully comprehended. It's led to a moment of "incredible opportunity" and "incredible danger" for society, he says.  Follow David on Twitter @MrDavidStroud To take advantage of Premier Christianity's limited HALF PRICE subscription offer visit premierchristianity.com/subscribe For more information about the Everything conference visit everythingconference.org

Steve Uppal is the pastor of All Nations, a growing multicultural church in Wolverhampton, and the author of ‘Rousing The Warriors’. He tells Justin Brierley the story of his parents’ radical conversion from a Sikh background to Christian faith and his passion for seeing revival in the UK and beyond.

When Hillsong first started in the UK, they attracted around 100 people to their Sunday services. Now a whopping 14,000 people turn up every week at the church's campuses across the UK. In this in-depth interview with Premier Christianity's editor Sam Hailes, the leader of the church explains how he's dealt with criticism along the way. He also pushes back against the assumption that Hillsong attracts a large amount of celebrities and young people. For Gary, the growth of Hillsong London might appear impressive, but he's aware the task of sharing the gospel is a monumental one - and it will take churches of various styles and denominations: "I know we’re not the only people on the planet, we’re not the only church in the nation, we’re not the only church in the city. All I know is we’re going to play our part in believing in our heart that this nation is going to turn its heart towards God."  Click here to read Premier Christianity's cover story on how Hillsong conquered the world To take advantage of Premier Christianity's limited HALF PRICE subscription offer visit premierchristianity.com/subscribe

Bishop Joseph D'souza is the leader of the largest growing church movement in India, the Good Shepherd Church. He's also a human rights activist for the poor and marginalised people called Dalits, also referred to as untouchables. Premier Christianity's deputy editor Megan Cornwell met Bishop Joseph on his recent visit to the UK to find out more about his organisation The Dalit Freedom Network. The Bishop also explains why Christians need to be more careful with their use of language when it comes to talking about sharing their faith in Asia.  For more information about Dalit Freedom Network visit dalitnetwork.org To take advantage of Premier Christianity's limited HALF PRICE subscription offer visit premierchristianity.com/subscribe  

Inderjit Singh Bhogal is a leading theologian and a former President of the Methodist Conference. Originally from an Indian Sikh background, he was just 11 years old when his family moved from Nairobi to the West Midlands. There were only two Sikh temples in the UK at the time, and Inderjit's nearest place of worship was a Methodist chapel. "I arrived in this chapel and was made to feel welcome," he remembers, finding the atmosphere to be "a real contrast" with school, where life was more challenging. After finding this place of belonging, he began to read the New Testament and found himself drawn to the story of Christ. "I was particularly captivated by the way he spent most of his time sitting with those who feel on the outside. I thought if that is what God is like, I want to know him more". Inderjit is now based in Sheffield. His work in interfaith relations was recognised with an OBE in the 2005 New Year’s Honours list. For more information on Inderjit, visit his website inderjitbhogal.com To take advantage of Premier Christianity's limited HALF PRICE subscription offer visit premierchristianity.com/subscribe  

Spurred on by her Christian faith, Baroness Caroline Cox has spent most of her political career drawing attention to the plight of persecuted people both at home and around the world. And she hasn’t been afraid to court controversy in the process. Most recently, she has argued the UK is prolonging the war in Syria and failing to acknowledge that Islamic State is far worse than the Assad regime. Previously, while president of Christian Solidarity Worldwide (CSW), she was criticised for her policy of buying slaves their freedom in Sudan. Her 2009 invitation to Dutch politician Geert Wilders to screen his anti-radical-Islam film Fitna in the House of Lords led to the home secretary refusing the far-right politician’s entry into the UK. Cox described it as a blow for free speech. In this in depth interview with Premier's Justin Brierley, the founder of Humanitarian Aid and Relief Trust (HART) recounts the highs and lows of her fascinating career so far. Her work often places her in highly dangerous situations. She's observed wars, conflicts and atrocities around the world. So does Lady Cox ever feel afraid? "Yes," she responds, "I get scared stiff. But I love the phrase: 'Courage is a fear that has said its prayers.'"  For more information on Baronness Cox, visit her website baronesscox.com To take advantage of Premier Christianity's limited HALF PRICE subscription offer visit premierchristianity.com/subscribe    

John Stevens is the national director of the Fellowship of Independent Evangelical Churches (FIEC), a family of 600 local churches who are "united by the gospel and by a common purpose". In this in-depth interview with Premier Christianity's editor Sam Hailes, John explains how he first came to Christ and how early on in his Christian life, thought he might be ordained in the Anglican church. As time went on, John came to the realisation he "wasn't an Anglican". As well as explaining the theological and doctrinal reasons for this, he also clears away some common misconceptions regarding what FIEC believes and stands for. According to John, the spiritual situation in the UK is "desperate" with "no more than 3% of the British population" being "Born-again Christians". When challenged that other statistics show 11% of the country attends church, John argues that attending church doesn't make you a Christian, and that in his view, some churches are not remaining faithful to biblical instructions on topics such as same sex relationships. Looking ahead, he says evangelical Christians need to have a greater impact outside of London and the south east, and plant more churches in deprived and multi-ethnic contexts.  Follow John on Twitter @_JohnStevens. For more information on FIEC visit fiec.org.uk To take advantage of Premier Christianity's limited HALF PRICE subscription offer visit premierchristianity.com/subscribe  

Some of Rachel Gardner’s first words during this one-hour conversation were a warning. “I’m going to bring plenty of sass to this interview.” She didn’t disappoint. Adjectives such as ‘bubbly’, ‘gregarious’ or ‘extroverted’ somehow feel insufficient when it comes to the president of Girls’ Brigade England & Wales. Sassy is a much better descriptor. Whether preaching, writing or campaigning, Rachel combines her determined, driven nature with dollops of grace and compassion.  Follow Rachel on Twitter @rachelgardnerRA You can also read this interview in the latest edition of Premier Christianity magazine. Request a free copy here.

Sarah Corbett is a professional activist, author and the founder of Craftivist Collective, a social enterprise which combines craft and activism to engage people in social justice issues "in a quiet, non-confrontational manner." The pioneer of "gentle protest" talks to Premier Christianity's Megan Cornwell about how deliberate, thoughtful actions can provoke reflection and respectful conversation instead of the aggression and division which can often dominate the public sphere.  For more information about Craftivism visit craftivist-collective.com To take advantage of Premier Christianity's limited HALF PRICE subscription offer visit premierchristianity.com/subscribe  

We're in Scotland for this week's episiode! Sam Hailes travelled to Refuel! - a new Christian festival in the Highlands run by The Filling Station. In the first part of the show he meets Tim Cheshire, the frontman of Christian band Superhero who is now heading up The Message Trust's work in Scotland. Speaking about his passion for mission, Tim says: "It doesn't matter how bad the state of the church is here or anywhere else. The effectiveness and the power in the message of the Gospel remains absolutely the same."  In part two, Richard Fothergill introduces The Filling Station - a new informal way of expressing the Christian faith. He also explains how God called him out of a successful career in advertising to go into church ministry and why although he was initially sceptical about the gifts of the Holy Spirit, he became convinced that prophecy, words of knowledge and speaking in tongues are all gifts from God. He also reflects on his time at Holy Trinity Brompton where he watched the Alpha course grow from a local to a global phenomenon.  For more information about The Message visit message.org.uk For The Filling Station see thefillingstation.org.uk. For Refuel go to refuelscotland.org.uk.  To take advantage of Premier Christianity's limited HALF PRICE subscription offer visit premierchristianity.com/subscribe    

Bazil Meade has been working in the music industry for over two decades. He is the founder and principal of the world famous London Community Gospel Choir. Under his direction and tuition some of the industry’s finest gospel and RnB singers have blossomed and found successful careers. Premier Christian Radio's John Pantry sat down with Bazil to hear more of his story.  Follow Bazil on Twitter @BazilMeade The Profile is brought to you in association with Premier Christianity magazine. For a free sample copy of the print issue visit premierchristianity.com/freesample For more interviews with leading Christians visit premierchristianradio.com/theprofile  

In 1992 John Kirkby lost virtually everything he had. Finding himself with debts of £78,000 and nowhere to turn he had hit rock bottom. But fast forward to today and the Yorkshireman's life has changed dramatically. Not only did he turn his finances around, but he met God in the process and is now the founder of the award winning debt advice charity Christians Against Poverty Premier Christianity's Megan Cornwell hears the remarkable story.  Follow John Kirkby @JohnKirkby The Profile is brought to you in association with Premier Christianity magazine. For a free sample copy of the print issue visit premierchristianity.com/freesample For more interviews with leading Christians visit premierchristianradio.com/theprofile

JLS were one of the biggest boybands of their day. The group rose to fame after reaching second place on ITV's X Factor and went on to sell over 10 million records. In this in depth interview with Premier Christianity's Sam Hailes, JB Gill recounts the highs and lows of his time in the band and explains how he's gone from winning BRIT awards to presenting programes about faith and farming on the BBC. The 31 year old also opens up about how, although he's always believed in God, he's found it hard to live out his faith. But now he's resolute, explaining how his Christianity is "at the centre" of his entire life and career.  Follow JB Gill @JBGill Read the interview in the latest issue of Premier Christianity magazine. Request a free copy here For more interviews with leading Christians visit premierchristianradio.com/theprofile    

After many years of alcohol abuse, Emma Heath was desperately lost. A decision to go into treatment and rediscover her faith led to healing and a role helping others in recovery. Sam Hailes hears the full story. In part two, we talk to Neil O'Boyle - the national director of British Youth for Christ. He talks about his experiences ministering all over the world and explains why the Church needs to get serious about reaching young people today.  The Profile is brought to you in association with Premier Christianity magazine. For a free sample copy of the print issue visit premierchristianity.com/freesample For more interviews with leading Christians visit premierchristianradio.com/theprofile Follow Emma Heath on Twitter @RecoveryTwo and Neil O'Boyle @NeilOBoyleYFC  

Ken Fish, founder of Kingdom Fire Ministries tells Justin Brierley about his life story and training in supernatural healing ministry under John Wimber, the founder of the Vineyard Church. Ken now ministers around the world and says he sees supernatural miracles on weekly basis. Nevertheless he saw his friend and evangelist Nabeel Qureshi die of cancer last year, despite Ken’s prayer ministry. He shares his story, experience and theology with Justin. The Profile is brought to you in association with Premier Christianity magazine. For a free sample copy of the print issue visit premierchristianity.com/freesample For more interviews with leading Christians visit premierchristianradio.com/theprofile For more information about Kingdom Fire Ministries visit kingdomfireministries.org/

On the first part of today's show, Alex Williams meets Petr Jasek, a Christian worker who spent 450 days in prison in Sudan for offences including spying and inciting violence against the state. Petr always denied any wrongdoing, insisting he was in Sudan to document persecution against Christians there. Ostracised by other prisoners, he was beaten and found himself sharing a cell with Islamic State fighters. Wrangling by diplomats from numerous countries eventually secured his release last year. In this interview, Petr talks about life in prison and how his faith brought him through his harrowing ordeal. In part two of The Profile, Sam Hailes sits down with Lois Tverberg, author of new book Reading the Bible with Rabbi Jesus. Lois shares her story of growing up in a Lutheran family, becoming a scientist and later discovering how studying the Hebraic background and context to the Bible can make the scriptures come alive in a fresh way. Lois speaks passionately about her life's work and shares a number of insights which will help Christians understand Christ's words in the New Testament. She also shares openly about the need to avoid dangerous excesses which can sometimes be found within the Jewish Roots movement.  The Profile is brought to you in association with Premier Christianity magazine. For a free sample copy of the print issue visit premierchristianity.com/freesample For more interviews with leading Christians visit premierchristianradio.com/theprofile  

Sir Colin Humphreys was knighted in 2010 for his services to science. The Cambridge scientist tells Justin Brierley about his Christian faith, how he reconciles science and faith and his intriguing work looking at the scientific explanations for Old Testament events including the parting of the Red Sea in Exodus and the sun ‘standing still’ in Joshua. The Profile is brought to you in association with Premier Christianity magazine. For a free sample copy of the print issue visit premierchristianity.com/freesample For more interviews with leading Christians visit premierchristianradio.com/theprofile  

The pastor who conducted the wedding ceremony of Kanye West and Kim Kardashian dropped into the Premier studios just after speaking at the Alpha leadership conference at the Royal Albert Hall. In this in depth interview Rich Wilkerson Jr, who pastors VOUS church in Miami, Florida shares his testimony and introduces his new book Friend of Sinners: Why Jesus cares more about relationship than perfection. He also opens up about his friendship with Kanye West and comments on the need for Christians to follow Jesus and be full of grace and truth. In responding to accusations that he's sugarcoating the gospel, Rich is clear: "Yeah I am! If the medicine gets in, the medicine gets in. I'm going to do whatever I can! That's called being a good fisherman. Last time I checked Jesus said 'I'll make you fishers of men'. What is fishing? You're putting bait on a hook!" Read this interview in Premier Christianity magazine. For a free sample copy of the print issue visit premierchristianity.com/freesample Follow Rich on Twitter @richwilkersonjr For more interviews with leading Christians visit premierchristianradio.com/theprofile    

John Lawson lived a life of crime that resulted in a prison sentence. He still thought of himself as a good person until a passage in Ezekiel changed his life forever. Sam Hailes here's the full story on this special podcast-only episode of the show.  The Profile is brought to you in association with Premier Christianity magazine. For a free sample copy of the print issue visit premierchristianity.com/freesample Follow John on Twitter @ifwicked For more interviews with leading Christians visit premierchristianradio.com/theprofile  

On The Profile this week, Premier Christian Radio's John Pantry meets the co-writer of 'In Christ Alone' Keith Getty, who believes Christians are living in "the most thrilling moment in history". In this in depth interview the writer talks about life growing up, songwriting and why he 'doesn't care' about winning awards for his music. The Profile is brought to you in association with Premier Christianity magazine. For a free sample copy of the print issue visit premierchristianity.com/freesample Follow Keith on Twitter @gettymusic For more interviews with leading Christians visit premierchristianradio.com/theprofile  

It's a double-bill this week as Sam Hailes sits down with David Kinnaman and Ron Matsen. David Kinnaman is a bestselling author and president of Barna - a research company working with churches and Christian organisations. According to David's research, many people's perception of Christianity is negative, with believers often being viewed as 'extremists' by wider culture. Although he believes the dominant culture, both in the US and UK could be described as 'spiritual Babylon', David is upbeat and explains why he's hopeful about the future of the Church. Ron Matsen is the CEO of Koinonia House (K-house) a Christian ministry founded by Chuck Missler - a much loved Bible teacher who passed away earlier this year. Ron discusses much of Chuck's teaching and legacy (including his occasional focus on aliens and the paranormal!) and explains what the next steps will be for the ministry of K House. He also shares some of his own story of attending Calvary Chapel Costa Mesa during the height of the Jesus People movement and later pastoring a small church in Portsmouth, UK. The Profile is brought to you in association with Premier Christianity magazine. For a free sample copy of the print issue visit premierchristianity.com/freesample Follow David on Twitter @davidkinnaman Follow K-house on Twitter @koinoniahouse For more interviews with leading Christians visit premierchristianradio.com/theprofile

Although he grew up in a Christian family, Graham Tomlin hasn't always believed in God. His teenage rebellion was a little unusual. "It wasn't sex, drugs and rock and roll," he says, "it was reading Nietzsche!" In time and through the help of Christian friends who stuck by him, he came to see the version of Christianity he'd rejected was "a childish" one. Now he's the President of the UK's largest 'vicar factory' St Mellitus, a host of the popular Christian podcast GodPod and the Bishop of Kensington. What draws these things together? His calling to explain how the Christian faith makes sense of life. Speaking one year on from the Grenfell Tower disaster, Bishop Graham also reflects on how the churches he oversees sprang into action in the hours following the fire. He also urges the media to be "responsible" as the one year anniversary draws near, pointing out how many local people are still distressed by the events of 14 June 2017.  The Profile is brought to you in association with Premier Christianity magazine. For a free sample copy of the print issue visit premierchristianity.com/freesample Follow Bishop Graham on Twitter @gtomlin For more interviews with leading Christians visit premierchristianradio.com/theprofile

Lucy Peppiatt is Principal of Westminster Theological Centre. She talk to Justin Brierley about how she came to faith, being a charismatic and a theologian and her extensive work uncovering the real meaning of what Paul wrote about women and worship in 1 Corinthians. The Profile is brought to you in association with Premier Christianity magazine. For a free sample copy of the print issue visit premierchristianity.com/freesample Follow Lucy on Twitter @lucepeppiatt For more interviews with leading Christians visit premierchristianradio.com/theprofile  

Andy Kind is best known for his work in the world of comedy. The award winning comedian has taken his stand-up shows to bars, clubs and churches across the country. But it seems that era might be drawing to a close. Explaining the reasons for his retirement from popular Christian summer festivals such as New Wine, Andy opens up about how he believes God is calling him to preach. This week's interview was conducted by Premier Christianity's editor Sam Hailes, who met Andy in an Eastbourne pub just hours before the comedian's stand up performance across the road at a local church. Andy would perform his stand up set that Saturday evening then preach the following morning. It's become a new pattern in his already eventful career which has seen Andy play thousands of gigs, write a number of books and even run a Christian conference centre. In opening up about past failures (and he isn't afraid to be honest, describing one project as "a big mistake"), Andy reflects on lessons learned, why Christian comedy doesn't have to be second rate and why he's "more relaxed" than ever. He even gives us an insight into what he calls his "gardening phase" and reveals the one word stand up comics can never say.  The Profile is brought to you in association with Premier Christianity magazine. For a free sample copy of the print issue visit premierchristianity.com/freesample Follow Andy on Twitter @andykindcomedy For more interviews with leading Christians visit premierchristianradio.com/theprofile  

The most prominent religious freedom defender for China, Bob Fu explains how he went from an atheist to being imprisoned for leading an underground church. After severe persecution for his Christian faith, Fu fled China to the United States and founded China Aid. The charity brings attention to China’s religious and human rights violations, while also providing legal help for Christians facing injustice. In this in depth interview, Fu shares harrowing stories of persecution demonstrating why the crackdown on Christians in the country is the worst it’s ever been. But he also shares testimonies of how the Church in China remains victorious as the Christian population continues to rapidly increase despite suppression. The Profile is brought to you in association with Premier Christianity magazine. For a free sample copy of the print issue visit premierchristianity.com/freesample Follow Bob Fu on Twitter @BobFu4China For more interviews with leading Christians visit premierchristianradio.com/theprofile  

It's a double bill on this week's show! Claire Musters talks to the well known leadership coach and popular speaker Jo Saxton ahead of her appearance at New Wine this summer. Jo has Nigerian roots but grew up in London. She explains how she faced many battles against racist attitudes and negative stereotypes and now seeks to minister to women and “build their confidence so they can be unleashed”. In part two Sam Hailes talks to the musician and singer-songwriter Tom Read. Tom spent many years working for a church in Hong Kong. He now lives in Oxford and has released a new EP titled 'Lament'. In opening up about his own mental health struggles, Tom explains why he believes we need a diverse range of worship songs to sing in church. He also reveals how he's gone through a recent process of deconstructing his faith.  The Profile is brought to you in association with Premier Christianity magazine. For a free sample copy of the print issue visit premierchristianity.com/freesample For more interviews with leading Christians visit premierchristianradio.com/theprofile  

A bumper edition of the show in which Justin Brierley speaks to four significant Christian leaders across science, theology, church and culture. Hugh Ross and Ken Samples join Justin at Unbelievable? The Conference 2018 on Sat 19 May. More info and tickets at www.premier.org.uk/justask The Profile is brought to you in association with Premier Christianity magazine. For a free sample copy of the print issue visit premierchristianity.com/freesample For more interviews with leading Christians visit premierchristianradio.com/theprofile  

  If you thought Jesus Culture was just a band then think again. It's actually a global movement with a mission to "awaken hearts to worship and demonstrate the love and power of God". In this in depth interview, the group's founder Banning Liebscher explains how Jesus Culture was birthed out of Bethel Church's youth group. When the worship band's cover of 'How He Loves' was (illegally!) uploaded to YouTube, their music suddenly went viral. Today, the band continue to release songs which impact the global Church and Banning laughs as he recalls often being mistaken for the soundguy. In sharing his message for the UK Church, he also explains why he's so optimistic about the future of Christianity in Europe. The Profile is brought to you in association with Premier Christianity magazine. For a free sample copy of the print issue visit premierchristianity.com/freesample Follow Banning on Twitter @thebanning For more interviews with leading Christians visit premierchristianradio.com/theprofile

As the daughter of Billy Graham, Anne Graham Lotz grew up in a devoutly Christian family. In this in depth interview, she tells Charmaine Noble-Mclean how her faith has grown and changed since the early days. Her late father once called her "the best preacher in the family", but Anne says she doesn't view herself as "exceptional" but aims to simply take life one day at a time.  The Profile is brought to you in association with Premier Christianity magazine. For a free sample copy of the print issue visit premierchristianity.com/freesample Follow Anne on Twitter @AGLotz For more interviews with leading Christians visit premierchristianradio.com/theprofile  

It's thanks to an "annoying Christian girl" who kept pestering Tim Chaddick to go to a Christian event that the now pastor is where he is. The teenager drove two hours to San Jose - a city the Los Angeles based Chaddick "hated" to see a Christian band he also "hated". But everything changed when the gospel was preached. "I was undone. I was weeping...I knew in that moment Christ had paid for all of my sins". In this in depth interview with Sam Hailes, Tim shares his testimony in full, explains why he's so committed to church planting and reflects on the differences and similarities between ministry in the USA and the UK.   The Profile is brought to you in association with Premier Christianity magazine. For a free sample copy of the print issue visit premierchristianity.com/freesample Follow Tim on Twitter @timchaddick For more interviews with leading Christians visit premierchristianradio.com/theprofile

Christian pastor, teacher and scholar Dr John Andrews was enjoying what he describes as "a blessed life". The popular speaker and author was ministering across the world and pioneering churches in the UK. "You want to believe in God's blessing and prosperity and everything is going to be good," he says, adding "And we had a very blessed life." But in May 2015 everything "dramatically changed" when John's son was arrested and charged with a serious crime. In this in depth interview, John opens up about the worst moments in his family life and how God brought them through the other side. In talking about both the high points and low moments in his ministry John also answers questions about how Christians should engage with scripture, the unique challenges of pastoring small congregations and why there's a time to be honest and admit that God's plan doesn't make sense to us.  The Profile is brought to you in association with Premier Christianity magazine. For a free sample copy of the print issue visit premierchristianity.com/freesample Follow John on Twitter @drjohnandrews For more interviews with leading Christians visit premierchristianradio.com/theprofile    

Sam Hailes travels to the oldest Pentecostal church building in the world to meet the Christian musician, singer-songwriter and rabble-rouser Dave Griffiths. The former pastor has recently been through a process of deconstructing his faith and questioning previously long-held doctrines. The Bournemouth-based artist has emerged more certain than ever that God's love is real and with a greater sense of his own calling. In this in-depth and wide-ranging interview Dave also charts his musical journey, including how he formed the popular Christian bands BOSH and Chaos Curb Collaboration. He also opens up about his personal struggles related to mental health, theology and the UK Church.  The Profile is brought to you in association with Premier Christianity magazine. For a free sample copy of the print issue visit premierchristianity.com/freesample Follow Dave on Twitter @davegriff For more interviews with leading Christians visit premierchristianradio.com/theprofile  

Thousands listen to her upbeat talks every week. But TV preacher Joyce Meyer has plenty of critics too. Maria Rodrigues met her to find out who she is off-screen. The Profile is brought to you in association with Premier Christianity magazine. For a free sample copy of the print issue visit premierchristianity.com/freesample Follow Joyce on Twitter @JoyceMeyer For more interviews with leading Christians visit premierchristianradio.com/theprofile  

Justin Brierley meets the bio-ethics and future technology expert Nigel Cameron. In this in depth interview the President of the Centre for Policy on Emerging Technologies in Washington DC explains how he became a Christian and why he's written his latest book: The Robots are Coming. Nigel believes robotics and the advances of artificial intelligence provide both opportunities and challenges for modern societies. But he says rather than preferring simple issues, Christians should delve into these complicated subjects because they really matter.  The Profile is brought to you in association with Premier Christianity magazine. For a free sample copy of the print issue visit premierchristianity.com/freesample Follow Nigel on Twitter @nigelcameron  For more interviews with leading Christians visit premierchristianradio.com/theprofile  

On The Profile this week, we meet two Christians with amazing testimonies. Kathy Gilbert was a drifter searching for meaning in the USA's hippie scene through drugs and new age beliefs. She tells Justin Brierley how she met God. In the second part of today's show, Sam Hailes meets Joseph Steinberg - chief executive of Christian Witness to Israel. Joseph explains how despite his parents telling him otherwise, he became convinced that Jesus Christ really was the Messiah. The Profile is brought to you in association with Premier Christianity magazine. For a free sample copy of the print issue visit premierchristianity.com/freesample Follow Kathy @kathygilbert7 and Joseph's ministry on Twitter @cwisupporters  For more interviews with leading Christians visit premierchristianradio.com/theprofile

The US-born musician who is now part of !Audacious Manchester’s creative team, Chip Kendall speaks to Ruth Jackson about growing up in Israel, young people’s difficult questions and how music can reach people on the fringes of faith.  The Profile is brought to you in association with Premier Christianity magazine. For a free sample copy of the print issue visit premierchristianity.com/freesample Follow Chip on Twitter @chipkendall For more interviews with leading Christians visit premierchristianradio.com/theprofile    

Billy Graham passed away on 21 Feb 2018 at the age of 99. Justin Brierley traces the life and legacy of the famed evangelist speaking to friends, relatives and ministry colleagues who knew him personally. You can also request a FREE Billy Graham Tribute edition of Premier Christianity magazine at premierchristianity.com/billygraham For more tributes to Billy Graham visit premier.org.uk/billygraham

In this interview with Premier's Justin Brierley, the former Bishop of Oxford Rt Rev Richard Harries explains how he became a Christian and was called into ministry. The 81 year old was once described by Rowan Williams as "that rarity, a Christian public intellectual" and is now a life peer in the House of the Lords. Harries talks about how he came into conflict with other Christians over his views on stem cell research and introduces his latest book The Beauty and the Horror which looks at issues of theology and suffering. The Profile is brought to you in association with Premier Christianity magazine. For a free sample copy of the print issue visit premierchristianity.com/freesample For more interviews with leading Christians visit premierchristianradio.com/theprofile  

The Briscoes' Telling The Truth ministry began in 1971 while Stuart served as senior pastor of Elmbrook Church in Wisconsin, which grew into the largest evangelical church in the state. It started as a simple tape duplication ministry in a home basement, using a reel-to-reel tape recorder linked to a dozen smaller recorders to duplicate the Briscoes' teaching. In the late 90s it became the first minstry to air on Premier Christian Radio, and continues to do so to this day, as well as being available as a podcast. In this in depth interview with Premier Christianity's Sam Hailes, Stuart and Jill share their testimonies, answer questions about the differences between the UK and America, and recall both good times and bad from a lifetime of ministry.  The Profile is brought to you in association with Premier Christianity magazine. For a free sample copy of the print issue visit premierchristianity.com/freesample Follow Stuart on Twitter @stuartbriscoe and Jill @jillbriscoe For more interviews with leading Christians visit premierchristianradio.com/theprofile  

The son of the legendary evangelist Billy Graham tells Marcus Jones why he's determined to come to the UK and preach the gospel. Franklin Graham is controversial in some circles for his previous statements about Islam and homosexuality. With a campaign now underway to ban him from preaching in the UK, Franklin answers his critics, explaining he has good news and a message of love to bring.  The Profile is brought to you in association with Premier Christianity magazine. For a free sample copy of the print issue visit premierchristianity.com/freesample Follow Franklin on Twitter @Franklin_Graham For more interviews with leading Christians visit premierchristianradio.com/theprofile

The co-founder of one of America's largest churches has a passion for honesty and authenticity. In this in depth interview Kay Warren speaks openly about her past struggle with porn, difficulties in her marriage to Rick Warren and how she is continuing to deal with the overwhelming grief of losing her son Matthew to suicide in 2013. Kay also answers questions surrounding her latest book, Sacred Privilege: Your Life and Ministry as a Pastor’s Wife (Revell). Click here to read the written version of this interview on Premier Christianity. For a free sample copy of the print issue visit premierchristianity.com/freesample Follow Kay on Twitter @KayWarren1 For more interviews with leading Christians visit premierchristianradio.com/theprofile  

"As I look back over my shoulder it's a bit like a train wreck," Doug Williams says when asked about his upbringing. "My Dad had three wives - in Nigeria, in Sierra Leone and then my Mum in London." The Pastor is open and upfront about his early years, telling stories of growing up in institutional care and the many challenges that brought. Today he's pastoring a diverse congregation in the East End of London - Emmanuel Community Church International. He believes Christians need to have courage and stand up for the truth in our increasingly secular society, but he's optimistic about the future of the UK Church and passionate about raising up the next generation. Emmanuel have even opened a school and are reaching hundreds of young people through various projects. The musician and international speaker also recalls his time in the chart topping and pioneering 80s band 'Paradise' and explains how mentoring has played a vital role in his discipleship and ministry.  The Profile is brought to you in association with Premier Christianity magazine. For a free sample copy of the print issue visit premierchristianity.com/freesample Follow Doug on Twitter @DougCW For more interviews with leading Christians visit premierchristianradio.com/theprofile  

RT Kendall doesn’t look like a heretic. He doesn’t sound like one either. But in the mid 80s he almost lost his job leading one of London’s most famous churches when he was accused of antinomianism: the claim that Christians are not obliged to follow God’s moral law. The controversy centred around a book he had written called Once Saved, Always Saved, in which he wore his Calvinist theology on his sleeve: that salvation is by sheer grace and not because of anything we do. Kendall laughs when he recalls the episode, saying that it was the testimonies of those who read the book that rescued him. "They said it made them want to be more godly," he shares. This wasn’t the only controversy Kendall would weather in 25 years of eventful ministry at Westminster Chapel. By the end of it, he saw himself as much a Brit as an American and, through his speaking and books, was regarded as a statesman of the UK evangelical Church by the time he retired in 2002. Justin Brierley hears the full story.  The Profile is brought to you in association with Premier Christianity magazine. For a free sample copy of the print issue visit premierchristianity.com/freesample Click here to read the interview with RT at Premierchristianity.com Follow RT on Twitter @DrRTKendall For more interviews with leading Christians visit premierchristianradio.com/theprofile  

In this brutally honest interview, worship leader Aaron Keyes explains how he's trying to reform the 'worship industry' from the inside. The writer of 'Sovereign Over Us' believes the worship world is "too male and too pale", cares more about production than presence, and lacks honesty in its songs, especially when compared to the Psalms. Admitting that as every year goes by his own songs become "less relevant and more cheesy", the 39 year old says he's desperate to invest in the next generation of leaders, teaching them not just to be worship leaders, but disciples. Why? Because the world doesn't need more people singing songs, it needs more spiritual leaders. The Profile is brought to you in association with Premier Christianity magazine. For a free sample copy of the print issue visit premierchristianity.com/freesample Follow Aaron on Twitter @aaronkeyes For more interviews with leading Christians visit premierchristianradio.com/theprofile  

BBC Radio 2 presenter Jeremy Vine talks to Justin Brierley about faith, doubt and Strictly Come Dancing. The popular broadcaster opens up about his career, what he's learned from his listeners and why he'd be "the worst evangelical ever".  In part two, Sam Hailes meets the leader of Catholics in England and Wales, Cardinal Vincent Nichols. Cardinal Nichols shares his life story, comments on Pope Francis' influence on perceptions of the Catholic Church and argues the evil of human trafficking can and must be stopped. The Profile is brought to you in association with Premier Christianity magazine. For a free sample copy of the print issue visit premierchristianity.com/freesample Follow Jeremy on Twitter @theJeremyVine. Follow Cardinal Vincent Nichols @CardinalNichols For more interviews with leading Christians visit premierchristianradio.com/theprofile  

Bruxy Cavey is teaching pastor of The Meeting House in Toronto, one of Canada’s largest churches. He talk to Justin Brierley about  his unusual journey to being a pastor, his anabaptist theology, how his wife proposed to him in front of their church congregation and his new book Reunion: The good news of Jesus for seekers, saints and sinners. Paul Wilbur is a leading songwriter and worship leader in the Messianic movement (made up of Jews who recognise Jesus as the Messiah). He tells Sam Hailes how he found God and shares his view on how Gentile Christians should relate to Jews and the nation of Israel.  He is the writer of many worship songs in both Hebrew and English including 'Kadosh', 'Shalom Jerusalem' and 'Baruch Adonai El Shaddai'.  The Profile is brought to you in association with Premier Christianity magazine. For a free sample copy of the print issue visit premierchristianity.com/freesample Follow Bruxy on Twitter @Bruxy. Follow Paul @paulwilburmin For more interviews with leading Christians visit premierchristianradio.com/theprofile  

Justin Brierley interviews Andy Crouch, the former editor of Christianity Today magazine in the USA and the author of best-selling books including Culture Making and his most recent title The Tech-Wise Family: Everyday steps to putting technology in its proper place. The Profile is brought to you in association with Premier Christianity magazine. For a free sample copy of the print issue visit premierchristianity.com/freesample Follow Andy on Twitter @ahc For more interviews with leading Christians visit premierchristianradio.com/theprofile

Greg Koukl is a Christian apologist, radio show host, author, speaker, and founder of Stand To Reason. In this interview with Justin Brierley, Greg shares his testimony and passion for apologetics. In part two, Ruth Jackson meets the daughter of the Archbishop of Canterbury Katharine Welby-Roberts to talk about her new book I Thought There Would Be Cake, her battle with depression and why Church culture around honesty and openness needs to change. The Profile is brought to you in association with Premier Christianity magazine. For a free sample copy of the print issue visit premierchristianity.com/freesample Follow Greg on Twitter @gregkoukl. Follow Katharine on Twitter @kwelbyroberts For more interviews with leading Christians visit premierchristianradio.com/theprofile  

The bestselling author of The Island, Victoria Hislop tells Ruth Jackson how she became a born again Christian aged 15 to annoy her atheist parents. Victoria also explains how her faith has changed over time and become more questioning. In part two, Dave Rose meets Terry Storch - the founder of the YouVersion Bible App, which has been downloaded over 280 million times. Terry also opens up about his own failures as well as successes and shares his remarkable testimony.  The Profile is brought to you in association with Premier Christianity magazine. For a free sample copy visit premierchristianity.com/freesample Follow Victoria on Twitter @VicHislop. Follow Terry on Twitter @TerryStorch For more interviews with leading Christians visit premierchristianradio.com/theprofile

The pastor who has been dubbed ‘the orthodox Rob Bell’ tells Sam Hailes how he’s reaching millennials in Portland - one of America's most secular cities. The 37 year old describes himself as an “introverted, melancholy, bookish reader/writer/teacher” but when it comes to theology he defies categories, admitting his church is “an interesting enigma”. The pastor holds traditional beliefs on the authority of scripture. But he’s critical of fellow conservatives who appear reluctant to dialogue with those who hold different views. In this in depth interview he explains why believes the Pope is "a rockstar", technology can harm your prayer life and why he's written a book on "the most quoted verse in the Bible, by the Bible." You can read an extract of this interview on the Premier Christianity website. Or for a free sample copy of the print issue visit premierchristianity.com/freesample Follow John Mark Comer on Twitter at @johnmarkcomer For more interviews with leading Christians visit premierchristianradio.com/theprofile

Glen Scrivener has a track record of producing videos which go viral online. In this in depth interview, he discusses past projects and reveals his upcoming #MeetTheNativity series which is designed to communicate the true message of Christmas this December. Glen, who is often described as an 'evangelist', says he has mixed feelings about the term. He also tells the heartwarming story of how despite being deported back to his native Australia (and praying a very "cheeky" prayer), he managed to woo his now wife Emma. He also discusses why "the call" to ministry isn't as dramatic as some assume and recalls learning from John Stott while training at All Soul's Langham Place. In addressing an increasingly secular society, Glen argues the problem is not confined to "the nasty world out there" but an unfruitful Church.  The Profile is brought to you in association with Premier Christianity magazine. For a free sample copy visit premierchristianity.com/freesample Follow Glen on Twitter at @glenscrivener For more interviews with leading Christians visit premierchristianradio.com/theprofile

Luke Barnes is an Australian astrophycist and expert on the 'fine tuning' of the Universe. He talks to Justin Brierley about his faith, life and work. The Profile is sponsored by Premier Christianity magazine. If you'd like to request a free sample copy visit premierchristianity.com/freesample. For more information about Luke Barnes visit physics.usyd.edu.au/~luke/blog/ For more interviews with leading Christians visit premierchristianradio.com/theprofile  

This week on The Profile, Sam Hailes interviews author and speaker Chick Yuill and Dami Okeke meets the multi award-winning Nigerian Gospel singer Sinach. Chick is a popular speaker at various Christian events including Spring Harvest and the author of recently released novel Rooks at Dusk. In this interview, Chick explains how CS Lewis' Screwtape Letters changed his life and recounts some of the controversies which led to him quitting the Salvation Army after decades of ministry. An evangelist at heart, Chick also explains how his novel is intended to reach those outside of the Church.  Sinach is a multi-award-winning international singer-songwriter based in Nigeria. She is responsible for some of the praise and worship anthems of recent years including ‘I know who I am’ and ‘WayMaker’. While on her WayMaker world tour Sinach speaks to Premier’s Dami Okeke about the passion that has driven her music for the last three decades - her Christian faith. The Worship Leader also highlights the power of music in a testimony she shares about a woman, who overcame depression listening to her songs.  The Profile is brought to you in association with Premier Christianity magazine. For a free sample copy visit premierchristianity.com/freesample Follow Sinach on Twitter at @sinach Follow Chick on Twitter at @chickyuill1 For more interviews with leading Christians visit premierchristianradio.com/theprofile  

Diarmaid MacCulloch is Professor of the History of the Church at Oxford, the author of numerous books including A History of Christianity and an award winning broadcaster. He talks to Sam Hailes about his life and career and explains why he believes the Church of England's position on gay marriage is wrong. The historian also unpacks why history should matter for Christians today, and reveals how his own Christian faith has changed over the years.  The Profile is brought to you in association with Premier Christianity magazine. For a free sample copy, visit premierchristianity.com/freesample For more interviews with leading Christians visit premierchristianradio.com/theprofile Get the Podcast of The Profile via iTunes or Podbean

This week on The Profile, Justin Brierley meets Brian McLaren. The speaker, activist and public theologian is the author of numerous books including A New Kind of Christian, The Secret Message of Jesus and most recently The Great Spiritual Migration. In 2005 Time magazine listed the former pastor as one of the 25 Most Influential Evangelicals in America. In this in-depth interview Brian explains why he's a passionate advocate both for “a new kind of Christianity” and the truth of the scriptures.  The Profile is brought to you in association with Premier Christianity magazine. For a free sample copy visit premierchristianity.com/freesample Follow Brian on Twitter @BrianMcLaren For more interviews with leading Christians visit premierchristianradio.com/theprofile

Trevin Wax is the Bible and Reference Publisher for LifeWay - one of the largest providers of Christian resources in the world. In this in-depth interview Trevin, who is now based in Nashville, explains how living and working in Romania changed his view of the USA. Introducing his latest book This Is Our Time, Trevin says our smartphones are lying to us, and says Christians must be careful to avoid aggressive worldliness when it comes to cultural engagement. The pastor and managing editor of The Gospel Project also comments on why so many white evangelicals continue to support Donald Trump and reveals how his love for the work of the 'Prince of Preachers' Charles Haddon Spurgeon brought him to the UK.  The Profile is brought to you in association with Premier Christianity magazine. For a free sample copy of the special Reformation issue, visit premierchristianity.com/freesample Follow Trevin on Twitter at @TrevinWax For more interviews with leading Christians visit premierchristianradio.com/theprofile  

Shawn Bolz is a prolific contemporary prophet in the charismatic movement. In this wide ranging interview with Premier's Tony Aris, Shawn explains how he teaches Christians to operate in the prophetic gift. Shawn is the founder of Expression58 church which is situated in the heart of Hollywood and reaching everyone from film stars to the homeless.  The Profile is brought to you in association with Premier Christianity magazine. For a free sample copy of the special Reformation issue, visit premierchristianity.com/freesample

Christy Wimber is a significant leader in the USA Vineyard church movement. In this edition of the show she tell Katie Stock why she took the decision to close down her church in Yorba Linda, California and why Christians who believe in miracles and healing also need to develop a theology of suffering. The Profile is brought to you in association with Premier Christianity magazine. To request a free sample copy of the latest issue visit premierchristianity.com/freesample 

On this week's show Sam Hailes meets one of the USA's leading thinkers on Christianity and culture. Greg Garrett shares his story from growing up as a Southern Baptist to now identifying as an Episcopalian. He also talks about working with the late great Brennan Manning, discusses whether Christians should watch Game of Thrones and introduces his new book: Living with the Living Dead: The Wisdom of the Zombie Apocalypse. Explaining he's attracted to the big questions of life, Greg also discusses his study of the Holocaust and tackles the age-old question of how an all powerful, loving God can allow suffering.  The Profile is brought to you in association with Premier Christianity magazine. To request a free sample copy of the latest issue visit premierchristianity.com/freesample   

Popular Christian apologist and former Muslim Nabeel Qureshi died on Saturday 16th September after after a year-long battle with stomach cancer. He was 34. As tributes pour in from around the world, Premier Christian Radio are re-airing Justin Brierley's Profile interview with Nabeel. In this in depth interview, Nabeel shared his remarkable testimony and explained why he no longer believed Islam is a religion of peace. The Profile is brought to you in association with Premier Christianity magazine. For a free sample copy visit premierchristianity.com/freesample

Alistair Begg is an internationally renowned preacher and host of the popular 'Truth for Life' radio program and podcast. In this in depth interview, Alistair talks about life growing up in Scotland, his subsequent move to America, why he believes the Bible is inerrant and what made him get involved with the forthcoming 'Spurgeon Study Bible'. Although he's known as a 'Reformed' preacher, Alastair explains why he's never used the label himself and addresses issues surrounding evangelism and Western scepticism to the Christian faith. 

The Telegraph columnist and historian Tim Stanley explains how he went from evangelical Baptist to atheist, before converting to Anglicanism and finally Roman Catholicism. Tim, who regularly appears as a political commentator on CNN and Sky, also recalls the experience of having a front-row seat for Trump's inauguration and comments on why he still believes Brexit is best for Britain. Following Jacob Rees Mogg's grilling over his views on abortion on Good Morning Britain, Tim says journalists can lack imagination when asking interesting questions about faith.  The Profile is sponsored by Premier Christianity magazine. If you'd like to request a free sample copy visit premierchristianity.com/freesample. For more information about The Profile visit premierchristianradio.com/theprofile

'America’s best theologian' Stanley Hauerwas talks to Katie Stock about why he believes the Church in the West has lost its way. You can also read the interview in this month's edition of Premier Christianity magazine. Request a free sample at premierchristianity.com/freesample 

Premier's political editor Martyn Eden talks to one of the UK's top social entrepreneurs. Chris Mould, who is best known for his role as chair of The Trussell Trust (which operates food banks across the UK) has led over 15 start-ups and mergers. In this interview he shares his testimony and explains what he's learned from his years of experience in professional development, skills and employment.

Justin Brierley interviews David Hutchings and Tom McLeish about their new book 'Let there be Science: Why God Loves Science and Science needs God'. David is a physics teacher and Tom McLeish is professor of Physics at Durham university and chairs the Royal Society’s education committee. 

Even before he was born, it was evident that God had a vision for Michael Youssef. Against doctors’ recommendations to terminate the at-risk pregnancy, his parents chose life after God intervened, sending the family pastor to reassure them that this child would be “born to serve the Lord.” His mother gave birth and lived to see him surrender his life to the Lord in 1964 at age 16. Since then, Youssef has gone on to launch his international ministry 'Leading the Way'. Dave Rose hears the full story. 

The most senior black female cleric in the Church of England tells Katie Stock how she became chaplain to the Speaker of the House of Commons. To read the print version of this interview request a free copy of the latest issue of Premier Christianity magazine. Just visit premierchristianity.com/freesample

Justin Brierley interviews Christian apologist and Professor of Science and Religion at Oxford University, Alister McGrath. 

Justin Brierley meets George Verwer, the founder of Operation Mobilisation - one of the world's best known mission organisation. 

In part one of this week's show Sam Hailes interviews Mike McHargue about his remarkable testimony from committed Southern Baptist to secret atheist then back to faith again. In the second half of the show Stephanie Rose meets Mike Weaver - the lead singer of Big Daddy Weave. 

American Pastor Jeffrey Brown shares with Premier's Northern Correspondent Ian Britton the lessons he learned working with street and drug gangs in the inner city of Boston, Massachusetts and his larger work across America bringing together conflicting groups to work together for the good of the community.

Sam Hailes meets the musical husband and wife duo Seth & Nirva. The pair talk about their hit song 'Brother', their experience working with TobyMac and Kirk Franklin and their reaction to the shock 'Jesus Freak Cruise' announcement by DC Talk. 

Randall Wright is the director of the upcoming documentary 'Summer in the Forest'. He and Chris Asprey talk to Justin Brierley about 'L'arche' the subject of the film - a community founded by Jean Vanier to support those with learning and mental disabilities. In the second part of the show, Justin Brierley meets Craig Hazen - the founder and director of a Masters program in Christian Apologetics at Biola University.

The evangelical charismatic Church is growing exponentially in Latin Aermica. Justin Brierley speaks to one of the most influential figures behind the movement. 

The former chief rabbi and winner of last year’s Templeton Prize talks to Justin Brierley about Jewishness, Jesus and Richard Dawkins.

Justin Brierley interviews Jeremiah J Johnston, president of the Christian thinkers Society and author of Unanswered: Lasting truth for trending questions.

Musician Mike Brown talks to Charmaine Noble-Mclean about his life and faith

Theo Hobson talks to Justin Brierley about his life, faith and new book God Created Humanism

On this week's show, broadcaster and theology professor Robert Beckford tells Justin Brierley why he's on a mission to show that Christianity isn't about a white, Western Jesus. In part two, Sam Hailes talks to Nick Spencer, the research director of the Christian think tank Theos about his new book: The Almighty and the Mighty: How political leaders do God 

Discover how the modern worship movement was born as Premier's Sam Hailes talks to the producer of the UK's biggest worship albums - Les Moir. In this week's show, Les shares the stories behind some of the Church's most-loved songs. 

As the Church marks 500 years since the Protestant reformation, Catholic broadcaster and author Peter Stanford tells Sam Hailes why Martin Luther matters today. Peter also explains why he's a Catholic, how he got into journalism and what happened when he went to visit Myra Hindley in prison. Peter's latest book Martin Luther: Catholic Dissident (Hodder & Stoughton) is out now.

Michael Franzese is a former New York mafia boss. He tells his amazing story of transformation in Christ to Justin Brierley.

Sam Hailes meets Moby - the skinny, teetotal, vegan DJ with a Christian faith who conquered dance music. And in the second part of this week's show, Sam interviews former Muslim Fyaz Mohammed about his life and testimony. 

The General Director of the Evangelical Alliance Steve Clifford talks to Sam Hailes about what it means to be an evangelical Christian, unity in the Church and the human sexuality debate. 

This week on The Profile, Justin Brierley meets two leaders both involved in multicultural ministry. Malcolm Patten is a Baptist minister in Walthamstow, London. His doctoral thesis was on multicultural ministry and his latest book is Leading a Multicultural Church (SPCK). In the second part of today's show, Justin interviews Israel Olofinjana - a Baptist minister from Nigeria and a black minister to a predominantly white congregation. Both men are quoted in this month's Premier Christianity magazine cover story 'The great divide: Can we reunite a segregated Church?' Visit premierchristianity.com/freesample to request a free copy of the latest issue.    

Justin Brierley meets bestselling author Adrian Plass to talk about his new book The Shadow Doctor. Plus, Malcolm Guite drops by to share his life story and talk about his poetry.

Sam Hailes meets 'Glam Vicar' and former prison chaplain Sharon Grenham-Thompson. Sharon shares her 'dramatic' conversion story and explains what its like to minister to convicted criminals in high security prisons. 

Sam Hailes interviews poet and spoken word artist Alysia Harris about her life and beliefs. Alysia also performs one of her poems, explains why she believes Christians should support Black Lives Matter and encourages the Church to talk more openly about sexuality. 

Justin Brierley speaks to the international author and evangelist Becky Pippert, who wrote the best selling book, Out of the Saltshaker & into the World and developed the DVD discipleship course Live, Grow, Know. In this wideranging interview, Becky talks about her life, conversion to Christianity and ministry today.

The world's most influential New Testament scholar joins us on the Profile this week as Tom Wright talks to Justin Brierley about his latest book. And stay tuned for Justin's conversation with the bewildered founder of 24/7 prayer, Pete Greig. 

Premier's political editor Martyn Eden talks to Lord Alton about his life, faith and career. Lord Alton has sat as a crossbench member of the House of Lords since 1997 and his interests include religious freedom, international affairs and ethical issues.

Founder of Soul Survivor, church leader and international speaker Mike Pilavachi sits down with Sam Hailes for this indepth look at his life and faith. 

Michael Wear was President Obama's "ambassador to America’s believers" and one of the youngest people to ever work in the White House. He talks to Sam Hailes about his fascinating career. 

Paul Weston is pastor of New Generation Church, Sidcup and part of the Spring Harvest teaching team. He tells Justin Brierley about his ministry and conversion story as a teenager. After failing to chat up a young Christian girl Paula, an extraordinary series of events led to his coming to Christ.’ Click here to read a condensed version of this interview in Premier Christianity magazine.  

Young Hearts Run Free' singer and house music pioneer, Kym Mazelle, talks to Muyiwa about fame, hearing God's voice and how sharing the gospel with the Royal Family.

18 November 2016 marked the 25th anniversary of Terry Waite’s release from captivity, after being held hostage by Islamic extremists in Beirut between 1987 and 1991. He tells Premier’s Sam Hailes how his faith kept him going. | The Profile Interview in association with Premier Christianity