Thoughts & Comments

A uniquely dual-lens view on the symbiotic relationship between the State and the 'Fourth Estate' of news and media. Former MP Simon O'Connor observes that journalists seem to be brandishing the foils of ideology and investor biases, rather than traditional tenets of fairness, balance and accuracy.  He notes that if honest reporting has slipped into lunges for click-bait commentary, then the duelling partners of government and media will fail to hold each other in check. Text 8168, keyword 'Comments' to share your views. ~~~~ Tune into Thoughts & Comments from 10:00am - 2:00pm on the Rhema Media App.For more from the show, visit the Thoughts & Comments page at rhema.co.nz.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As Britain's Prime Minister faces the political guillotine amidst a hotbed of polarising issues, there's an observation that a kind of sociopolitical revolution is stirring in other parts of the Commonwealth.Public theologian Dr Craig Heilmann compares UK Labour Party's defeat in local body elections with developments in Australia, which has just seen the resurrection of fundamentalist politician Pauline Hanson.  Is extremist ideology degrading social cohesion and causing voters to use the polling booth as a blunt instrument? Text your thoughts to 8168, keyword 'Comments'. ~~~~ Tune into Thoughts & Comments from 10:00am - 2:00pm on the Rhema Media App.For more from the show, visit the Thoughts & Comments page at rhema.co.nz.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

For the general New Zealand public, the further a piece of legislation is from the nexus of land ownership and resources, the harder it is to understand the relevance of - let alone apply - Treaty of Waitangi principles.  Church and Treaty historian Dr Samuel Carpenter of Laidlaw College addresses some of the tension in the Government's review of laws involving Treaty obligations, acknowledging that while 'what' or 'which laws?' and 'how' are valid questions, many New Zealanders are still stuck at the 'why'.  Text 8168 keyword 'Comments' to share your thoughts.~~~~ Tune into Thoughts & Comments from 10:00am - 2:00pm on the Rhema Media App.For more from the show, visit the Thoughts & Comments page at rhema.co.nz.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Will Sir Keir Starmer survive the challenges to his leadership, or will the UK see yet another Prime Minister exit prematurely? Andrew Urquhart catches up with UK-based Colin Bloom, International CEO of Barnabas Aid, who shares his insights from years of serving in an advisory capacity to Downing Street; and adds the unique perspective that persecuted minorities are often the most vulnerable in times of leadership instability.  (www.barnabasaid.org) Text 8168 keyword 'Comments' to add your views. ~~~~ Tune into Thoughts & Comments from 10:00am - 2:00pm on the Rhema Media App.For more from the show, visit the Thoughts & Comments page at rhema.co.nz.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

TVNZ political editor Maiki Sherman announced her resignation last week.  Was this a long time coming? Andrew Urquhart asks political analyst Bryce Edwards for his assessment of the rampant speculation over the reason for her abrupt departure - from employment tension following recent Parliamentary misbehaviour; to broader culture wars and conspiracy theories of government complicity.  Text 8168 keyword 'Comments' to share your views. ~~~~~ Tune into Thoughts & Comments from 10:00am - 2:00pm on the Rhema Media App.For more from the show, visit the Thoughts & Comments page at rhema.co.nz.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ukraine has persevered against Russia's onslaught for more than four years, and her people are nearing the end of their tether. Amongst the rubble of cities and ruined lives, mothers mourn their sons and husbands, survivors search for answers, and many are finding FEBC's Gospel ministry. New Zealand CEO Matt Perry shares stories from FEBC Ukraine, as well as an invitation for Kiwi supporters to offer messages of faith and hope. (https://febc.nz/dedicated/) Text 8168, keyword 'Comments' to share your thoughts. ~~~~ Tune into Thoughts & Comments from 10:00am - 2:00pm on the Rhema Media App.For more from the show, visit the Thoughts & Comments page at rhema.co.nz.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

"As Kiwi as an All Black eating a pavlova in jandals made of No 8 wire."  That's how Andy Milne describes the time-honoured tradition of retiring with investment property. But he says recent market analysis indicates the dream Kiwi retirement is losing its lustre for mum-and-dad investors.  The Christian Savings advisor shares his observations that New Zealanders are waking up to the realisation that property is no longer an 'easy', fail-safe and profit-sure investment plan. (www.christiansavings.org.nz)  Text 8168, keyword 'Comments' to share your thoughts. ~~~~ Tune into Thoughts & Comments from 10:00am - 2:00pm on the Rhema Media App.For more from the show, visit the Thoughts & Comments page at rhema.co.nz.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Many agree that the Broadcasting Standards Authority overstepped its bounds by attempting to litigate a webcaster; but is the government's decision to dissolve the BSA in itself a step too far? In claiming authority to adjudicate a complaint against The Platform host, Sean Plunket, the BSA appointed itself webmaster of New Zealand's online content, with the glaring exception of several global streaming services. The Free Speech Union was amongst those who flagged the inconsistency and overreach, and CEO Jillaine Heather joined Andrew Urquhart to share her assessment of the BSA's demise. (www.fsu.nz)  Text 8168, keyword 'Comments', to share your thoughts. ~~~~ Tune into Thoughts & Comments from 10:00am - 2:00pm on the Rhema Media App.For more from the show, visit the Thoughts & Comments page at rhema.co.nz.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Top chef behaviour was hardly 'top shelf' - Tash McGill responds to recent revelations of restaurant industry controversies, shedding light on the heated environment of the hospitality sector, from hazardous kitchen conditions to assault allegations. ~~~~ Tune into Thoughts & Comments from 10:00am - 2:00pm on the Rhema Media App.For more from the show, visit the Thoughts & Comments page at rhema.co.nz.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Will the public on-field spat amongst government parties see players benched, or perhaps even blow the final whistle on this three-captained Coalition team? With the Opposition and Labour cronies predicting an early election, Andrew Urquhart asks another former politician - is there merit to the doomsday prophecies or is it just 'stirring'? Ex-National MP Simon O'Connor says there is a place for productive friction in government.  He also highlights the difference between commentary and accurate reporting in journalism, as well as the importance of maintaing neutrality in the civil service. ~~~~ Tune into Thoughts & Comments from 10:00am - 2:00pm on the Rhema Media App.For more from the show, visit the Thoughts & Comments page at rhema.co.nz.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

There's concern that Chinese-made EVs destined for New Zealand roads are a trojan horse for surveillance and espionage. Local civil liberties advocacy group PILLAR has raised the alarm on electric vehicles from China, asking our government to follow UK and Australia's example and approach with caution. Arian Tashakkori flags some questionable safety features and potential threats to national security. (https://www.nzpillar.com/) ~~~~ Tune into Thoughts & Comments from 10:00am - 2:00pm on the Rhema Media App.For more from the show, visit the Thoughts & Comments page at rhema.co.nz.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Perhaps Kiwis can fly - discover a visionary Kiwi production company on the cusp of an international breakthrough. Fantail Studios founding director Jared van Berkel recounts how God has steered his life from the moment the filming bug bit him in childhood, to transformative encounters as a 'media missionary'. Fantail's award-winning documentary is soon to be made into a feature film, The Rescue, expecting to reach 15-30 million people with the Gospel. (www.fantailstudios.com) ~~~~ Tune into Thoughts & Comments from 10:00am - 2:00pm on the Rhema Media App.For more from the show, visit the Thoughts & Comments page at rhema.co.nz.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Are Coalition government partners eyeing each other's share of the voting pie?  According to former Prime Minister Helen Clark, New Zealand First is 'eating fairly deeply into National's support', suggesting the Coalition goose is cooked; but a political analyst says the recent tit-for-tat between the two parties doesn't mean a break-up or earlier election.   Dr Bryce Edwards of the Democracy Project looks at how things stand at this stage of the election cycle, following revelations of leadership differences over the Iran war. ~~~~ Tune into Thoughts & Comments from 10:00am - 2:00pm on the Rhema Media App.For more from the show, visit the Thoughts & Comments page at rhema.co.nz.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In the the frontier town of cyberspace, who's the sherrif and what's the law? As internet governance races to keep up with fast-evolving social media and AI technology, Andrew Urquhart asks Internet NZ candidate and Free Speech Union council member, Douglas Brown, about how we can better protect internet users and hold content providers accountable. For more information visit www.fsu.nz ~~~ Tune into Thoughts & Comments from 10:00am - 2:00pm on the Rhema Media App.For more from the show, visit the Thoughts & Comments page at rhema.co.nz.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A yuletide treat for music lovers – Welsh singer and Songs of Praise presenter Aled Jones joins Andrew Urquhart for a Christmas-cracker of a festive chat. Discover his fond memories of childhood in Wales, early fame, a varied media career, and serenading royals; and how God has held him through the octave-spanning highs and lows of life.   Plus a special surprise for Kiwi fans – catch Aled in Godzone next year!  Join the conversation and text 8168, keyword "Comments"; and visit www.thoughtsandcomments.co.nz for more content.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Join Andrew Urquhart as he continues to wrap up the year with a look at what this season holds for Kiwis - the good, the sad and the beautiful; the inspiration, the despair and the hope.   The Salvation Army's Lt Col Ian Hutson asks us to spare a thought for those who have found 'no room at the inn', as he reviews New Zealand's latest homelessness data;  Dave Mann says this most wonderful time of year presents the perfect opportunity to share the reason for the season and the reason for our hope;  Mental health advocate & public speaker JuliaGrace shares a surprise Christmas gift – a new song, composed whilst living in a real-life nativity scene!  Text your thoughts to 8168 keyword 'Comments', and visit www.thoughtsandcomments.co.nz for more content. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As 2025 draws to a close, Andrew Urquhart and his guests look back at the significant events and issues that make it a year to remember, including: Big-and-fast weather damage Influence of US President Donald Trump AI's growing impact Energy generation Social Impact Bonds Creeping extension of euthanasia & China's reach in the South Pacific With businesswoman and commentator Tash McGill, and Director of the Maxim Institute, Tim Wilson. Join the conversation & text your thoughts to 8168 keyword 'Comments', and visit www.thoughtsandcomments.co.nz for more content.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Can Christmas get busy and stressful? YES! But why, when it's all about the Prince of Peace. Today, Andrew Urquhart and his guests unwrap the layers of expectation, expense and emotion that can complicate how we mark Christmas festivities and other occasions. Enjoy three conversations that encourage us to return to the Biblical art of grateful celebration when it comes to the sharing of meals, gifts and time this Christmas. With Dr Maja Whitaker (www.laidlaw.ac.nz), John Dennison (www.venn.org.nz) and Kristin Ward (www.parentingplace.nz) BONUS TIPS: practical ideas for teaching children the importance of a generous heart wrapped with gratitude and good manners. Text your thoughts to 8168, keyword 'Comments', and visit www.thoughtsandcomments.co.nz for more content.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As the church prepares to celebrate Christ's birth and Jews remember God's faithfulness in protecting their identity, a devastating massacre seems to have blotted out a memorial of light.  Andrew Urquhart and his guests respond to the tragedy at Australia's Bondi Beach, considering the role of law, civic responsibility, and faith, in combatting hate crime and preserving peace. With leadership mentor John Peachey, FSU Chief Executive Jillaine Heather, and public theologian Dr Craig Heilmann.   Text your thoughts to 8168, keyword 'Comments', and visit www.thoughtsandcomments.co.nz for more content.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Identity, tribalism, and good Kiwi coffee. Those topics and plenty more were on the table when the host of Today with Jeff Vines caught up with Andrew Urquhart on his New Zealand visit. Encouraged by a global Gen Z surge back to church, the ONE&All lead pastor also warned that a counter-movement is in force, as extreme ideologies become the new 'religion'. Text your thoughts to 8168, keyword 'Comments', & visit www.thoughtsandcomments.co.nz for more content. Today with Jeff Vines broadcasts on Rhema, weekdays at 1:35pm. (www.rhema.co.nz).  https://www.oneandall.church See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As a Kiwi recently returned from Bethlehem, photo/video-journalist Cole Martin brings back challenging accounts from the West Bank, an area of the Holy Land that has arguably received less media attention than Hamas-controlled Gaza since the 2003 October 7th attacks on Israel. In this raw and confronting conversation, Cole shares glimpses of what life is like for the Palestinian Christians he has met in West Bank hilltop communities and refugee camps - stories of chaos and confusion; legacy and occupancy; heartbreak and hope; fear, and faith.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

All I want for Christmas is... naughty or is it nice? And are we chasing a lifestyle too expensive to resource?  Tech gadgets and smart devices come with a hefty price tag and significant social cost - whether you do or don't keep up-to-date with the latest/best/shiniest toys.  Andrew Urquhart's guests today weigh up the pros and cons of social media and cutting-edge technology in our digital world.  With commentator Tash McGill, Rhema's head of digital, Justin Smith, and Maxim researcher, Debora Spiekermann (maxim.org.nz)  Text your thoughts to 8168, keyword 'Comments', and visit www.thoughtsandcomments.co.nz  for more content. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Are you attempting to stuff too much into the proverbial Christmas stocking? Trying wrap up too many gifts, expenses, events, obligations, tinsel and trimmings.. with too little of you?   Broadcaster John Cowan shares some sage advice for those feeling more ho-hum rather than ho-ho-ho;Matt Maslin (laidlaw.ac.nz) brings it back to the most precious gift of all - God with us, a vulnerable baby wrapped in swaddling cloth;while John Peachey (thethinkfarm.org) has some encouragement for all December babies who may feel like their birthday is overshadowed by Christ's. Text your thoughts to 8168, keyword 'Comments', and visit www.thoughtsandcomments.co.nz for more content.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Counting down to Christmas it's not crackers that politicians are pulling on, but a power struggle nonetheless. Andrew Urquhart invites his guests to comment on the apparent tug-of-war between local and central government, the two major political parties, individual rights and the common good. Former MP Simon O'Connor joins Andrew Urquhart to analyse the peformance from the major contenders for next year's election; Political analyst Dr Bryce Edwards considers how regional councils could be affected by proposed law changes, and what that means for local democracy and community control; And Nathan Seiuli from civil liberties group PILLAR defines the fine line between someone who leaks data, and a whistleblower, as Brian Young faces ongoing legal action for publishing Health NZ/ Te Whatu Ora information about Covid vaccine deaths.  Text 8168, keyword "Comments", and visit www.thoughtsandcomments.co.nz for more content.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What's the economic forecast for New Zealand as we head into the festive season? After a dismal year for small businesses, Andrew Urquhart and his guests discuss whether the Government's revamped social investment initiative, the recent OCR announcement, and a couple of Scandinavian imports can turn around the economic blues. With Thomas Scrimgeour (maxim.org.nz), Andy Milne (chrisitiansavings.co.nz) and Tash McGill. Will the holiday spirit boost business confidence?  Join the conversation by texting 8168, keyword 'Comments'; and visit www.thoughtsandcomments.co.nz for more content.⁠See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

From pastor to bricklayer and back again. New Life Church pastor Peter Kinsella shares his testimony of faith, ministry and burnout; and how Christ-centred community can redeem the pressures and disappointment of church leadership. Text your thoughts to 8168, keyword "Comments".  Visit www.thoughtsandcomments.co.nz for more content.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today's guests urge a kind of charity that looks past the statistics and sees the individual. Dr Bonnie Robinson of the Salvation Army's Social Policy and Parliament Unit shares testimonies of lives transformed through transitional housing, prisoner reintegration, and addiction services. (salvationarmy.org.nz)And broadcaster John Cowan mulls over how to respond to street beggars - the moral pull to help, versus a dilemma about practical consequences & feeding dependency.Join the conversation and text your thoughts to 8168, keyword 'Comments'.  Visit www.thoughtsandcomments.co.nz for more content.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Three compelling discussions about faith in the birthplace of the church - a faith born under fire that nonetheless spread like wildfire, and is still enkindling the flame of devotion in spite of politics, geography and persecution.  Dr Craig Heilmann reflects on a historic agreement on the 1700th anniversary of the Nicene Council, as Patriarch Bartholomew and Pope Leo XIV vow to grow communion; Rev. Matt Maslin (laidlaw.ac.nz) examines the eschatology behind what may be hindering compassion towards Gazan civilians; And Barnabas Aid NZ's CEO Stephanie Johnston updates Andrew Urquhart on the threat of further violence facing Syria's persecuted church. (barnabasaid.org/nz) Join the conversation & text your thoughts to 8168, keyword "Comments"; and visit www.thoughtsandcomments.co.nz for more content. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Who...or what, do we see when we look in the mirror?  Andrew Urquhart and his guests peer through the kaleidoscope of what it means to be made in the image of God. As Western society begins the tinsel-coated countdown to Christmas, Ryan Lang (venn.org.nz) shines a light on the true meaning of Advent, reflecting on Christ, the Light of the World; Rev. Frank Ritchie takes an honest look at self-help literature, asking whether it has warped self-care into self-centredness; And Brendan Malone (lifenet.co.nz) reviews the new cinematic adaptation of Mary Shelley's classic novel, "Frankenstein", through the lens of bioethics, encapsulated in the film's tagline - only monsters play God. Join the conversation and text your thoughts to 8168, keyword "Comments".  For more content, visit www.thoughtsandcomments.co.nzSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

There's a buzz about 'imported culture wars' so Andrew Urquhart asks, what about imported cultural trends and foreign influence - in some cases to the point of invasion?   Kiwi shops are screaming Black Friday / Cyber Monday sales. But what happened to Thanksgiving Thursday? Wynand Jacobs (familylife.nz) suggests how we can honour its true light of gratitude, amidst the neon glare of feverish consumerism; Nathan Seiuli (nzpillar.com) outlines his concerns about increased foreign interference in local affairs, warning that cosy diplomacy can hide a deadly hornet's sting against Kiwi buzzy bees; And Professor Robert Patman examines the Russia-US peace plan presented to Ukraine, reminding that history cautions against appeasing the aggressor.   Text your thoughts to 8168, keyword "Comments", and visit www.thoughtsandcomments.co.nz for more content.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

How do we deal with family tensions or friction in our faith congregations? Do we extend the same grace to our nearest & dearest, as what we proclaim in public? Andrew Urquhart and his guests discuss the virtue of forgiveness without calculation. With broadcaster John Cowan, Family Life's Wynand Jacobs (familylife.nz) and leadership mentor John Peachey (thethinkfarm.org.nz). Text your thoughts to 8168, keyword "Comments". For more content visit thoughtsandcomments.co.nz "No, not seven times,” Jesus replied, “but seventy times seven! ~Mt 18:22 (NLT) See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

From conflict zones & bustling cities to the ends of the Earth, discover how seeds of the Gospel are taking root & flourishing in hearts all over the world. A report from the 2025 General Assembly of the World Evangelical Christian Alliance; a hope-filled update on Ukraine's war-weary believers (missionwithoutborders.org.nz); & good news of a Kiwi revival from the Hope Project (alltogether.co.nz). Text your thoughts to 8168, keyword 'comments', and visit thoughtsandcomments.co.nz for more content.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Defending the thin blue line between order and chaos means walking the talk, but it seems the top brass have been found wanting. Andrew Urquhart and guests weigh up the politics, policy and culture surrounding high level leadership positions, tackling the case of disgraced former Deputy Police Commissioner Jevon McSkimming; and speculation over PM Christopher Luxon's tenure. With Dr Bryce Edwards (Integrity Institute), John Peachey (thethinkfarm.org), and Jillaine Heather (fsu.nz) Text your thoughts to 8168, keyword 'Comments', and visit thoughtsandcomments.co.nz for more content.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Author, mathematician and public speaker Dr James Lindsay challenges 'wokeism' with clarity. He discusses how critical theory, media infiltration campaigns and keyboard warfare have undermined social interaction and eroded critical thinking.  So how can we engage with these issues in a more meaningful way? Join the conversation and text 8168, keyword 'Comments'.  For more content visit thoughtsandcomments.co.nzSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

From overseas ministry to the mission field of our own neighbourhoods, how can we engage with community issues where we are? Andrew Urquhart caught up with Reverend Byungkook Yoo when he was in New Zealand earlier this year to find out more about his lifelong cross-cultural journey of faith; and chats to Rev. Frank Ritchie about how Christians can bear gentle and bold witness in a society that seems to spurn faith. Text your thoughts to 8168, keyword "Comments".See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Discover the treasures of “Between Two Trees” from visionary husband-and-wife duo, Paula and Keith Newman.  Andrew Urquhart chats to them about divine inspiration, their creative dynamic, and the way Paula's visual art and Keith's prose complement each other in exploring the Fruits of the Spirit.  Text your thoughts to 8168, keyword 'Comments'. For more content, visit thoughtsandcomments.co.nz ~~~ Order your copy of "Between Two Trees" by e-mailing Paula: [email protected] ~~~See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Church has battled a litany of hurt, both as victim and perpetrator.  Yet we are called to pick up our cross and follow our Saviour in rising from suffering and shame.  So what does that look like?  Andrew Urquhart's guests discuss healing within the Body of Christ – as individual pilgrims, and as communities of faith.  Greg Liston reflects on God's presence in the midst of trauma and loss; John Peachey suggests crises are often catalysts for change and clarity; and Ben Mai shares good news about a church-led initiative for mental health recovery.  Text your thoughts to 8168, keyword 'Comments'.  Visit thoughtsandcomments.co.nz for more content. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Who is your 'village'; or have we lost our sense of belonging? How can we rebuild community?  In this episode Andrew Urquhart has three refreshing conversations about the boundaries of care and duty to our families, neighbourhood, and beyond. With broadcaster John Cowan, leadership mentor John Peachey (thethinkfarm.org) and Vision West's Brook Turner (visionwest.org.nz). Text your thoughts to 8168, keyword 'Comments'.Visit thoughtsandcomments.co.nz for more content.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Let's talk about love! Less about the romance, and more as the greatest of all virtues. Revisit Andrew Urquhart's interview with LifeNet's Brendan Malone, who unpacks the Bible-based principle of 'rightly ordered love'; and Dr Myk Habets of Laidlaw College considers sexual identity as God intended - not in the polarised extremes of social pressure versus total self-determination. Text your thoughts to 8168, keyword 'Comments'.Visit thoughtsandcomments.co.nz for more content.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Andrew Urquhart and guests look at some current issues with a historical lens. Dr Maryanne Spurdle (maxim.org.nz) examines if unproven genetic technology heeds the lessons of past ethical dilemmas; broadcaster John Cowan shares how old stigmas can become today's strengths; and Dave Mann (alltogether.co.nz) reflects on the Christian principles that form the fabric of our national heritage and democratic systems. Text your thoughts to 8168, keyword "Comments".For more content visit www.thoughtsandcomments.co.nzSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

From the clear precision of mathematics to the incisive power of literature, Helen Joyce is a force in the battle against harmful ideologies. Frustrated with the circular definitions that plague gender theory, the renowned journalist and author of "Trans: When Ideology Meets Reality" is now challenging 'inclusive' social policies as the Director of Advocacy at Sex Matters, a UK lobby group focussed on sex-based rights.  Touring New Zealand in November as a guest of the Free Speech Union, Helen Joyce recently joined Andrew Urquhart in the Rhema studio to share how logic and a keen sense of justice fuels her drive to campaign for women's rights and children's well-being. (fsu.nz) Text your thoughts to 8168, keyword "Comments".For more content, visit www.thoughtsandcomments.co.nzSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Is the human condition all about work versus play and struggling for a balance between the two? Andrew Urquhart has three thought-provoking discussions about how we can flourish as individuals and in community to fulfil our divine purpose - with John Dennison (venn.org.nz) , Lauren Parsons (laurenparsonswell-being.com) and Wynand Jacobs (familylife.nz). Text your thoughts to 8168 keyword 'Comments'. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

How can followers of Christ thrive in a world that seems indifferent - or even hostile - to our faith.   Join Andrew Urquhart and his special guest, Greg Sheridan, about the hallmarks and benchmarks of a fruitful Christian life. The author of "How Christians Can Succeed" offers some challenging advice for how we can live with conviction in a digital, distracted age.  Join the conversation & text your thoughts to 8168, keyword 'Comments'. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Discover how God's creativity  inspires pioneering technology;  get tips for parenting perfectionist kids, and nurturing a culture of workplace well-being. Join Andrew and his guests, Dr Stuart Burgess (profstuartburgess.com), Kristin Ward (parentingplace.nz), and Lauren Parsons (LaurenParsonsWellbeing.com) and be part of the conversation by texting your thoughts to 8168, keyword 'Comments'. For more content like this, visit www.thoughtsandcomments.co.nz See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

How are the twin forces of digital technology and cultural change reshaping traditional borders of national sovereignty, institutional authority and the media landscape?The Director of Maxim Institute, Tim Wilson, considers the end of an era with veteran news anchor Simon Dallow's departure from 1News, and whether plummeting trust is behind alternative platforms' takeover of mainstream media. (maxim.org.nz) With eroding confidence in local media and politicans, how much do we trust offshore institutions? Nick Hanne of civil liberties group PILLAR asks if China's far-reaching influence is an overreach, challenging the West to step up and stand up for fundamental democratic rights. (www.nzpillar.com) And have you faced any digital identification hurdles lately? Justin Smith discusses whether industry ethics and regulations are keeping pace with rapidly developing technology, and whether the payoff is worth it. Text your thoughts to 8168, keyword 'Comments'. For more content visit www.thoughtsandcomments.co.nzSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

"Behold, children are a heritage from the Lord, the fruit of the womb a reward." ~ Psalm 127:3 (ESV) Trigger warning, audience discretion advised.  New Zealand is in a battle to protect society's most vulnerable - our children.  While the Free Speech Union considers prudent defence against social media harms, grassroots organisations Family First and St Nicholas Children's Trust expose some devastating truths about live abortions (familyfirst.org.nz) and child exploitation (snctrust.org).  Join the conversation and text your thoughts to 8168, keyword 'Comments'.  If you have been through the trauma of abortion, are facing a crisis pregnancy or are in a situation where you feel unsafe, please consider seeking counsel and support for your well-being. Nzprayerline.org.nz - 0800 50 80 80 pregnancycouselling-nz.org - 0800 773 462 pregnancyoptions.org.nz pregnancychoice.org.nz havenpregnancysupport.org.nz  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Examine recent and historical conflicts that highlight the dehumanising impact of war.  Prof. Robert Patman traces the proposed annexation of the West Bank back to Israel's self-defence against Arab onslaught in the Six-Day War and more recently the October 7th terrorist attacks; while historian Dr Samuel Carpenter and playwright Steve Worsley recall a tragedy closer to home - the 144th anniversary of Parihaka. Join the conversation and text 8168, keyword 'Comments'.  For more content like this visit www.thoughtsandcomments.co.nzSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dive into three fascinating conversations about being called to our world a better place - as individuals and in community.  Otago University theologian Prof. Murray Rae shines a light on the Bible's blueprint for being a city of blessing; Vision West's Brook Turner emphasises the virtue of generosity in times of scarcity; and Rev. Frank Ritchie considers life's seasons of rest, pruning, change and growth.    Text 8168, keyword 'Comments'. For more content like this, visit www.thoughtsandcomments.co.nzSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

With less than 12 months until the next election we examine recent Policy announcements that may, or may not, tip the scale.  Dr Bryce Edwards examines recent policy announcements from Labour, particularly Capital Gains Tax, and explores if this will make a difference for the troubled left.   Grant Marshall from Christian Savings analyses whether this policy will work from an economic and political point of view.  Tash McGill looks at recent education policy to see if this is a potential vote winner for the incumbent coalition.   Text 8168, keyword 'Comments', and access more content like this at thoughtsandcomments.co.nzSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Halloween has a colourful and varied history, and a comparatively young one as a modern cultural phenomenon - more so in the New Zealand context.  So what is behind the increase in Kiwis' fascination with an imported cultural trend?  Is it harmless or dabbling in the occult? And what is the Christian response? Andrew Urquhart and his guests sift through superstition, misinformation, fiction and fads, to find the true origins of All Hallows' Eve.  Discover why the Church celebrates Christ's victory over death with the tradition of All Saints and All Souls; reflect on ways of grieving that honour eternal life after death; and how Christian households can continue God's redemptive work in a society engrossed with the false idols of consumerism, popular culture, and pagan spirituality. With Rev. Matt Maslin (laidlaw.ac.nz), the Hope Project's Dave Mann (alltogether.co.nz) and Family Life director Wynand Jacobs (familylife.nz) Text your thoughts to 8168, keyword 'Comments'. For more content visit thoughtsandcomments.co.nzSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.