On this week’s episode of The Surprising Rebirth of Belief in God: the next generation is remarkably open to spirituality according to recent data. Could the 'Asbury Awakening' be evidence of a renewal bubbling up among Gen Z?

I speak to pastors, thinkers, statisticians and Gen Z leaders who have noticed a surprising surge of interest in faith, alongside stories of unusual growth in Catholic, Orthodox and evangelical churches. Rob Bethell also tells his story of surprising rebirth after walking into church for the first time.

The Problem with Church: Recovering from power, politics, scandal and abuse

On the next episode: a series of high-profile scandals have rocked the evangelical church. Politicisation and Christian nationalism are on the rise. How can the the church recover from abuse and leadership failures in order to meet the rising tide of meaning seekers?

I relive an infamous interview with Mark Driscoll, and hear from Mike Cosper, Karen Swallow Prior, John Dickson, Phil Cooke, Rasool Berry, Esau McCaulley and other leaders seeking to move beyond celebrity, power and politics.

This episode won’t be released until 17 September, but you can listen now when you become a Silver or Gold Patreon supporter, or get early access via Tax-deductible giving (USA).

Interview on the John Anderson Show

On the John Anderson show I discussed my experiences hosting debates between Christians and atheists during the peak of New Atheism, noting how the movement eventually splintered and lost momentum as it became increasingly dogmatic. I highlighted the rise of figures like Jordan Peterson and Tom Holland, who have challenged secular narratives and reintroduced Christian ideas into mainstream discourse. The interview also touches on suffering, the resurrection of Jesus, and Christian sexual ethics.

Interviewed by Ruslan KD

I also had a great time being interviewed by Ruslan KD while in the USA! We discussed the end of the New Atheism movement, what seems to be taking its place, as well as historical evidence for Christianity, including (but by no means limited to) recent discoveries about the controversial Shroud of Turin!

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:

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:

1. 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.

2. Support via Paypal

   A great way to make a one-off gift - thank you!

3. Tax-deductible giving from the USA

   If you’d like to give in this way, we are partnering with Defenders Media to make this possible. Just follow the link.

Best wishes from me and the Think Faith team!
Justin Brierley.