Christian Heritage London Podcast

We had a superb time talking to Jim Sayers, Pastor of Grace Church Didcot and Chairman of Praise Trust. In this conversation we discuss: - How Jim became a Christian. - His experience of church growing up. - His work as a pastor in Didcot. - The work of Praise Trust. Find out more about the work of Praise Trust here: praise.org.uk

We had an excellent time talking to pastor and author of 'The Gospel Way Catechism' Thomas West. In this conversation we discuss: - How Thomas became a Christian. - The influence of a faithful pastor and mentor on his life. - How theologians and pastors like Herman Bavinck, Lesslie Newbigin, and Tim Keller have had an influence on shaping his thought. - His new book co-authored with Trevin Wax 'The Gospel Way Catechism'. Pre-Order 'The Gospel Way Catechism' here: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Gospel-Way-C... This conversation is rich in application for every Christian as Thomas always brings the conversation back to Christ, and his love for the saints.

We had an excellent time chatting with John Currie about his journey from a small town in northern Alberta to becoming a pastor, theologian, and teacher of preachers. In this wide-ranging interview, he shares how: • A Pentecostal church introduced him to Christ • Expository preaching transformed his theology • Influences like R.C. Sproul and Richard Gaffin shaped his ministry • The entire Bible points to Christ—and how to preach accordingly • True theology is driven by love for God and others This conversation offers thoughtful insight into the calling of the pastor, the heart of faithful preaching, and the richness of Christ-centred theology.

We had an excellent time with Steve Nichols, minister of All Saints, Lindfield, and former pastor at All Souls, London, discussing church history, ministry, and the lasting impact of John Stott and Jonathan Edwards. Steve shared insights from his journey, reflecting on preaching, legacy, and the power of the gospel throughout history.

We had an excellent time with Todd Murray, Pastor of Family Ministries at Grace Immanuel Bible Church and faculty member at The Expositors Seminary. He shared his insights on John Newton’s legacy, the power of hymns, and the heart of pastoral ministry. As the author of Beyond Amazing Grace: Timeless Pastoral Wisdom from the Letters, Hymns, and Sermons of John Newton, Todd reflected on his deep appreciation for Newton’s writings, his work in training future pastors, and the role of biblical counseling in the church. This conversation was rich with history, theology, and heartfelt reflections on grace and trials.

In this episode of the Christian Heritage Podcast, we sit down with JD Greear, pastor of The Summit Church in North Carolina and former president of the Southern Baptist Convention, to discuss church planting, discipleship, and the unstoppable power of the gospel. JD shares insights on reaching Muslims, lessons from church history, and why true revival starts with what’s already done—not what we do.

We had a superb time with Tom Brand, talking about his role at the EFCC, his academic research during his PhD, and more.

Tim Chaddick is a pastor, author, and speaker best known for founding Reality LA, a church in Los Angeles focused on gospel-centered teaching and community outreach. He is also the author of books like Better: How Jesus Satisfies the Search for Meaning, addressing themes of faith, purpose, and spiritual fulfilment. We had an excellent time chatting with Tim about his conversion, his church planting journey and his friends from church history.

“My name is now Christian, but my name used to be Graceless.” John Bunyan’s work has opened the eyes of millions to the grace of God. Jacob Tanner (pastor of Christ Keystone Church in Middleburg, Pennsylvania) has written a new biography of Bunyan, The Tinker’s Progress. It was superb talking with him on the podcast.

Fred Sanders is a systematic theologian and professor at Biola University’s Torrey Honors College, specializing in Trinitarian theology. He is known for his work on the doctrine of the Trinity, including his book 'The Deep Things of God', which emphasises the importance of the Trinity in Christian life and thought. We had an excellent time talking with him about Wesley's influence on his theology, his fascinating work at Torrey Honours College and more.

Alex Brito, pastor of Mosaic Multicultural Church in London, works with The London Project to plant churches, unite leaders, and share the gospel.

We had the pleasure of interviewing Dave (Senior Pastor, Redeemer Church of Dubai) and Gloria (author of books including "Missional Motherhood", Crossway), asking them about their story, and how the Lord has helped them come through various trials.

Richard Bray serves as the rector of St Anne’s Limehouse in London, where he is dedicated to gospel-centered preaching, community outreach, and fostering a welcoming church environment rooted in biblical truth.

We had an excellent time with Paul Yeulett, minister at Grove Chapel in London. Paul is known for his dedication to biblical teaching and pastoral care. His recent book, Time for Judgement, explores themes of divine justice and accountability, reflecting his commitment to Reformed theology and a deep understanding of Scripture.

Aaron Edwards is a British theologian, lecturer, and writer known for his work in evangelical theology and cultural commentary. He has sparked discussions around the intersection of faith, politics, and social issues, often advocating for traditional Christian beliefs within contemporary society.

Philip Eveson is a theologian and Bible teacher, known for his works on Reformed theology and his detailed commentaries on biblical texts. He has contributed extensively to theological education, particularly through his association with the London Theological Seminary. We had a wonderful time talking with Philip, hearing his story and the influence of Dr Martyn Lloyd-Jones on his ministry, as well as his advice.

Conrad Mbewe is a Zambian pastor, theologian, and author known for his strong advocacy of biblical preaching and Reformed theology. Often called the "Spurgeon of Africa," he has had a significant influence on Christian ministry across the continent.

While Christians are grateful for John Newton, George Whitefield and William Tyndale, none of their ministries would have been possible without visionary, wise patrons. John Rinehart, through the book and ministry Gospel Patrons, has introduced a model of relational patronage with great potential for the church. It was a fascinating privilege to talk with him in the Vestry at St Mary Woolnoth.

Bill James is Principal of London Seminary, teaching new pastors and preachers. He was pastor of Emmanuel Church, Leamington Spa, for 26 years, and worked previously in the pharmaceutical industry.

Graham is Director of Affinity (formerly known as the British Evangelical Council). He can often be heard in the media giving a Christian perspective on current events, experience which illuminates his recent book Reasoning in the Public Square. Graham is one of the pastors of Christ Church Haywards Heath.

Johnny Prime was a lawyer who became pastor, serving a London church which went on to plant several local congregations. He is now the Director for London of the Fellowship of Independent Evangelical Churches (FIEC). Ken Brownell talked with him about his favourite book.

Paul Copan is probably best known as a wise and gracious apologist. He’s also a theologian, analytic philosopher, author and presently a Visiting Scholar at the University of Oxford. We had a superb time talking with him about his story and influences, and about hearing and talking with people.

Matthew Bingham is from the US, has studied at UCLA, Princeton and Belfast, has been a pastor in the US and in Northern Ireland, and he now teaches systematic theology and church history at Oak Hill College in London. Ken Brownell had a great time talking with him about his favourite book on this new episode of Bookmarks.

Matt Jones is a husband, father of seven, pastor of Del Rey Church, Los Angeles, a foster carer and holder of a couple of PhDs. We had a superb time talking with him about priorities, the challenges of the moment in which we live and the grace of God in the local church.

Announcing our new podcast series, Bookmarks, hosted by Dr Kenneth Brownell, in which we talk with guests about their favourite books! We begin with a fascinating conversation with Geoff Thomas.

J H. Bavinck, nephew of Herman Bavinck, is respected as the man who took Bavinck’s rich, practical, God-centred theology, and applied it in the context of missions. His great book Personality and Worldview – originally lectures to students – has now been translated by James Eglinton. (The Foreword was the last thing that Tim Keller published in his lifetime.) We had the privilege of hosting the launch of the book where we talked with James about how the gospel really does change everything!

Mary Mohler (Mrs Albert Mohler) has written a lovely book about Susannah Spurgeon (Mrs Charles Spurgeon). It was a delight and privilege to sit down with her and talk about the Spurgeons, to reflect on their example, and to hear some of her own stories! Her new book Susannah Spurgeon: Lessons for a Life of Joyful Eagerness in Christ is published by Christian Focus.

We had the privilege recently of sitting down with John Woods, author of God is in the House. John is the founder of the Dead Preachers Society conference. Having been a pastor for decades John now teaches on preaching internationally and was a wise, fascinating and helpful guest.

We had a fascinating, vividly colourful time reflecting with Alastair Roberts about his testimony, salvation, serving the church and ways to read the bible.

Randy Newman, author of the acclaimed Questioning Evangelism (Third Edition recently published) is Senior Fellow for Apologetics and Evangelism at the C.S. Lewis Institute. We had a wonderful time talking with him about his own story and his influences.

It was a superb privilege to sit down with Collin Hansen (Editor in Chief of The Gospel Coalition) and to reflect on his friend Tim Keller, a man whose gracious influence - as we discussed - was established on eternal truth, luminous grace and was a vivid and compelling gospel example.

Since 1955 Open Doors, begun by Brother Andrew (God's Smuggler), has been supporting persecuted Christians. It was an extraordinary privilege to talk with Sam about the worth of Christ, the persecuted church and rejoicing in suffering.

George Verwer (1938-2023)'s life has influenced the lives of millions: in 1957 he began Operation Mobilisation which has seen 200,000 people sent as missionaries. At least 110 countries have been served by OM and over 45 million visitors have boarded their ships, from which they distribute gospel literature. We had a golden time talking about his own story and hearing his memories.

Jonathan Aitken is interested in people - he's written biographies of John Newton, Charles Colson, Richard Nixon and others. His own life has taken fascinating turns, a dive into humiliation and regret, and the wakening of grace - and has developed into a new purpose which, as he says, he would never have expected. A biographer of John Newton (John Newton From Disgrace to Amazing Grace - Continuum 2007), he lately spoke at the 250th anniversary of the hymn Amazing Grace at Newton's old church, St Mary Woolnoth, where we had the privilege of talking about Charles Colson, John Newton, William Wilberforce and others, in Newton's old vestry.

Craig is International Training Director for Christianity Explored, a course that churches use internationally to welcome people and tell them the gospel of Jesus Christ. He came into the role after 20 years' experience as pastor of a local church and saw the benefit of CE first from the context of church ministry. We had a great time talking with him about his own story and the people who've inspired him.

Glen Scrivener has written The Air We Breathe - How We All Came to Believe in Freedom, Kindness, Progress, and Equality. Engaging with history and contemporary thinkers he proposes that the influence of the Christian gospel is behind massive contributions that have established and stabilised the world as we know it. However, while his claims are encouraging and stimulating to the Christian believer they are typically unknown and unconsidered by the majority of people. Kenneth Brownell and Ben Virgo discussed the book in the most recent episode of the Christian Heritage London podcast.

Ian Galloway studied Medicine at Newcastle and started following Jesus in his first year, "after discovering that the resurrection was true, Jesus was alive and was inviting Ian to be his friend." Ian and his wife Heather started a new church in Byker with four friends. This became what is now City Church. Ian served as lead pastor for thirty-three years and an influential church grew. He now teaches at the University of Durham where he is Director Of The Free Church Track, and has lately written Called to be Friends (Hodder and Stoughton) on John's gospel.

Bill Edgar, who we have previously interviewed on the Christian Heritage London podcast, taught Apologetics at Westminster Theological Seminary from 1989 until summer 2022, and has now written a book on a subject dear to his heart: jazz. In A Supreme Love, Edgar considers the context from which this unique art form came in American history, the pioneers who defined it and the transcendent nature of its beauty. It's a fascinating introduction to, and commentary on, a musical genre which, he argues, can only be appreciated in light of the gospel of Jesus Christ. We had an excellent time talking with him about it on the Christian Heritage London podcast.

Allen McClymont is a typical Londoner: born in Malaysia he grew up in New Zealand and has taught New Testament Greek in Malaysia! For nearly twenty years he's worked with OMF, the missionary society begun by J Hudson Taylor. We had a great time talking about the potential and opportunity of international mission and how the roots of his passion to serve and establish people in the gospel were fed.

Tim Dieppe is someone of whom you’ve likely heard but would like to learn more: he is Head of Public Policy at Christian Concern, and is engaging - boldly, wisely and articulately - with many of the great challenges which Christians are finding in the work place, schools and wider society at the present time. It was excellent to sit down with him and hear his own story and stories of people who’ve inspired him.

Dean Inserra planted City Church Tallahassee 15 years ago and is passionate about reaching the city of Tallahassee with the Gospel, to see a *worldwide* impact made for Jesus. The congregation frequently sees thousands in attendance and is known for its emphasis on local equipping and ministry.

Chris Larson is President and CEO of Ligonier Ministries, which began as the ministry of R C Sproul. R C's ministry has established and inspired believers internationally for generations - his great book The Holiness of God being a watershed text for many. Ligonier established a number of teaching fellowships such as Sinclair Ferguson and Stephen Nichols, and has continued to serve the church internationally through resources and conferences. Thus following R C's death in 2017 Ligonier has continued, under the leadership of Chris Larson, to be a potent and strategic asset in the worldwide church. We had a superb day with Chris lately walking through London's church history and talking with him about heroes, strategy and effectiveness on the podcast.

While he was assistant to Dr Martyn Lloyd-Jones at Westminster Chapel in London, Iain Murray was asked by the Doctor to give some lectures on church history. And so began a fascination with church history which would flourish into a ministry which would bless the body of Christ internationally: the Banner of Truth publishing house. If you have heard of Charles Spurgeon, Jonathan Edwards, John Owen, J C Ryle, Richard Sibbes or any of the English Puritans it is likely because of the Banner of Truth. The Banner of Truth has reprinted their works for decades, as well as the works of Dr Lloyd-Jones, Sinclair Ferguson and other contemporary writers. Iain Murray himself has written many highly acclaimed biographies, including works on Jonathan Edwards, Charles Spurgeon and John Wesley, as well as the authorised biography of Dr Martyn Lloyd-Jones himself. It was a great privilege to sit down with Iain, to hear his story, and to talk about people who've inspired him.

Alun Ebenezer is the founding headmaster of Fulham Boys School, a centre of excellence in central London. Here boys are taught from an ethos of resilience, kindness and a can do attitude - an ethos that is geared towards boys, which nurtures enterprise - business, social and personal - and is built upon the Christian Faith. It's an ethos which relies on strong leadership, is committed to firm discipline, academic excellence, a love of sport and an appreciation of the arts. It was a privilege to talk with Alun, a leader in our time, about his own story of putting his faith in the Lord Jesus Christ, his own heroes and the story of a remarkable work of faith in central London in our time.

Mez McConnell is senior pastor of Niddrie Community Church in Edinburgh, Scotland, founder of the 20 Schemes church planting network, and author of several books, most recently The Least, The Last and The Lost. It was a great privilege to sit with him, hear his story, talk about his influences and be inspired by his example of faithful, bible-established, gospel-inspired obedience.

Sharon James studied history at Cambridge and theology in Toronto and Wales, and now brings piercing, prophetic insight to the extraordinary challenges of our culture through her work at The Christian Institute. Sharon has lately written The Lies We Are Told, The Truth We Must Hold, in which she looks at the thought behind the cultural challenges of our moment and how they are answered in the gospel. Conrad Mbewe said of the book “The panoramic view is breath-taking! It is like standing on the sun and seeing all the planets in the solar system going around in beautiful symmetry. The confusion turns to picturesque order.” Wayne Grudem called it “a remarkable book”.

James Eglinton has done outstanding work in our time drawing attention to the work of Herman Bavinck. The author of the acclaimed Bavinck: A Critical Biography, he has introduced a generation to the life and times of a luminous thinker whose God-centred theology, only recently made available in English, is now stimulating, provoking and encouraging believers outside of Holland for the first time.We had a fantastic time talking with James about his own story, about his experience of working across cultures, and about Bavinck.

Michael McMullen, Professor of Church History at Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary and Editor of the Midwestern Journal of Theology, is behind previously unpublished works by Robert Murray M'Cheyne, Jonathan Edwards and now the previously unpublished Spiritual Journals of William Wilberforce.This most recent book has been described as one of the most important publications from the last ten years, revealing the heart of the man whose personal walk with the risen Christ was the root of his long but ultimately victorious battle for the abolition of the slave trade.We had an outstanding time talking with Michael about his influences, their stories and about his own story.

You’re not sure what you think about God. You’re not an atheist – you’re not that confident of his non-existence. You’re not a Christian or a Muslim, though you’ve got nothing against either of them. You prefer to identify as a humble agnostic. Some would say you’re sitting on the fence, but why not? It’s a comfortable enough place to be. Why can’t we all just admit we don’t know? Yet sometimes you do have questions. Where did we come from? What happens when we die? Can anyone make sense of all the suffering in the world? What’s it all for? You wouldn’t mind answers to some of them, as long as no one tried to brainwash you. You’re not 100% sure that you enjoy not being sure.

Where are the leaders? WE NEED LEADERS. Chris Green knows a few things about leadership: former Vice Principal of Oak Hill Theological College, vicar of St James, Muswell Hill, a large London church and a teacher of teachers. He's lately written The Gift, How Your Leadership Can Serve Your Church. We had a superb time talking about leadership, leaders who've inspired him and about *serving* as a leader.