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- Does the future have a church? // The Rebirth of God in Music!
Does the future have a church? // The Rebirth of God in Music!
Listen to my latest episodes of The Surprising Rebirth of Belief in God, and get early access to upcoming episodes!
Justin Brierley
July 01, 2025
Episode 15 - Does the future have a church? Theos panel live in London
In a secular age, many have predicted the death of the church in the West. But with evidence of a 'Quiet Revival' in the UK, where are the new signs of life in the church?
I recently joined a panel of journalists and church leaders to discuss the future of the church, with Nick Spencer of Theos chairing the conversation.
Watch, or listen through your favourite podcast provider!
LISTEN EARLY! Episode 16 - The Rebirth In Music: Why God is back in the charts
Chart-topping bands, musicians and rappers are increasingly singing about God. Why?
In this documentary episode I revisit the religious awakening of music stars such as Bob Dylan, Alice Cooper, Cliff Richard and U2 as veteran music journalist Steve Turner explains how faith influenced their music.
I also speak to TGC editor Brett McCracken about the current religious revival in rock and rap from musicians such as Stormzy, Mumford & Sons, Nick Cave and Coldplay.
But there are pitfalls to being a celebrity music convert. Jon McCray (Whaddo You Meme), KD Ruslan and Nick Brewer share thoughts on the case of Kanye and the conflicted world of rap stars singing about faith.
X-Factor contestant Talia Dean also shares her story of recently leaving the secular music industry after discovering something much bigger... God.
You can listen early right now by becoming a monthly silver or gold level supporter via Patreon or US Tax-Deductible Giving.
Graham Tomlin: The genius of Blaise Pascal
Graham Tomlin is the Director of the Centre For Cultural Witness, and Editor in Chief of Seen and Unseen. As the former bishop of Kensington he has been involved in theological education and cultural engagement for several years. His latest book is ‘Blaise Pascal: The man who made the modern world’.
Myself, Belle and Graham explore the life and legacy of Pascal, a polymath who, in a relatively short lifetime, made huge contributions not only to science, mathematics, technology and culture but also offered arguments for Christianity that are still widely discussed today. Watch or listen on your favourite podcast platform!
Nadim Ednan-Laperouse: Why Natasha's death changed my life
Nadim Ednan-Laperouse OBE is founder and trustee (along with his wife, Tanya) of The Natasha Allergy Research Foundation – which was established in the name of Nadim and Tanya’s daughter, Natasha, who died as a result of an allergic reaction to a baguette which did not have the correct information on its packaging.
The story of Natasha’s death captured the attention of the nation and is still inspiring invaluable research and change, Nadim talks to me and Belle about Natasha, grief, hope, and the extraordinary spiritual experience that accompanied his daughter's final hours. Watch or listen on your favourite podcast platform!
Book your place at the ‘Responding to the Rebirth Conference’! 22 Nov 2025, London
Presented by Speak Life and Think Faith, ‘Responding to the Rebirth’ is a one-day conference where I’ll be joined by leading Christian thinkers including the wonderful John Lennox, Mike Royal, Elizabeth Oldfield, Paul Kingsnorth, and Glen Scrivener.
We’ll be gathering with others from across the country to celebrate what God is doing in this moment of surprising rebirth. Come and be inspired to meet this quiet revival with Spirit-filled clarity and hope: Saturday 22 November 2025 at All Souls Langham Place, London.
Book your place now: rebirthconference.net
Your support helps me to reach more people
I’ve received many encouraging messages about the Surprising Rebirth Podcast in the past month, including this one:
“Great pacing, an array of speakers and options. Coupled with Justin's thoughtful commentary and you get beautifully crafted brain food and a spiritual uplift. Something rare and precious.”
I can only create this podcast with the support of listeners, so if you feel able please do become a supporter!
Here are a few ways you can support:
Become a regular Patreon Supporter.
Silver supporters get early access to new episodes and bonus content. Gold supporters also receive signed copies of my books and monthly catch ups with me.
A great way to make a one-off gift - thank you!
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Best wishes from me and the Think Faith team!
Justin Brierley.