Martyn Whittock

  • What is Christian Reconstructionism?

    What is Christian Reconstructionism?

    Some find its promise invigorating and transformative; others fear that proximity to power creates intoxicating intolerance among those who imbibe it; sterner critics consider it a toxic mixture that has strayed far from the New Testament model.

  • The Church and the history of time

    The Church and the history of time

    At the start of a new year, we become increasingly aware of the marking of time into significant chunks and milestones. Yet, we frequently take for granted the milestones that are used by our own culture.

  • Why does the Church of England have two archbishops?

    Why does the Church of England have two archbishops?

    As Justin Welby leaves office, Martyn Whittock explores the early medieval history that explains the authority structure of the Church of England and why it has two archbishops.

  • What might 2025 bring?

    What might 2025 bring?

    Some thoughts on what may be in store for the world this year.

  • The return of Donald Trump and why it is so significant

    The return of Donald Trump and why it is so significant

    As the dust begins to settle a bit (and there's a long way to go before the changed landscape becomes clear) we can begin to reflect a little on why this election result is so significant. We can also begin to tentatively suggest some of the possible future implications of this event.

  • What do the words of John Winthrop in 1630 have to do with the US elections in 2024?

    What do the words of John Winthrop in 1630 have to do with the US elections in 2024?

    Whatever the result in November, the words of 1630 continue to echo in the US of 2024.

  • James Hudson Taylor and the China Inland Mission

    James Hudson Taylor and the China Inland Mission

    Of the many who worked as missionaries in China in the 19th century, one whose work had a particularly enduring character was James Hudson Taylor, founder of the China Inland Mission (CIM), which was responsible for taking over 800 missionaries to China.

  • Charismatic movements in the 20th and 21st centuries

    Charismatic movements in the 20th and 21st centuries

    In the 20th century a great deal of discussion – and controversy and disagreement – was generated by contrasting viewpoints concerning the way the Holy Spirit is experienced by individuals and communities and the impact of this on services and worship. That dynamic conversation and exploration continues.

  • When two Mediterranean Christians transformed the English Church

    When two Mediterranean Christians transformed the English Church

    In the 7th century AD, the Christian Church in England was transformed by the work of two remarkable men. Neither was born in England, or for that matter in the British Isles.

  • Christians in the Middle East and the threat to an ancient community

    Christians in the Middle East and the threat to an ancient community

    Let us not forget the Christian communities of the Middle East. There is much to think about as we survey the present turbulent world. But as we think and pray about its many areas of need, let us not forget them.

  • The strange afterlife of the John the Baptist Movement

    The strange afterlife of the John the Baptist Movement

    The Bible tells us that disciples of John the Baptist left him to follow Jesus, but the 'John the Baptist Movement' clearly did not just go away.

  • The rise of the US evangelical right

    The rise of the US evangelical right

    Whatever one thinks about that – and opinions sharply differ – it is a political and cultural phenomenon of great importance. But what is its history? How has the US 'evangelical right' emerged as such a political force? And why is it so supportive of Donald Trump and MAGA?