Explorez tous les épisodes du podcast The Word Shared

This conversation between Tanya Stead and Mark Griffiths, Director of Mission Resources at Scripture Union, delves into the history, mission, and impact of Scripture Union, focusing on revealing Jesus to children and young people, working in communities, defining success, understanding challenges faced by young people, new projects and initiatives, and the heart and calling of Scripture Union.

Takeaways

• Revealing Jesus to children and young people
• Understanding the challenges faced by young people

Chapters

• 00:00 Introduction to Scripture Union
• 01:07 History and Mission of Scripture Union
• 03:03 Revealing Jesus to Children and Young People
• 03:39 Working in Communities
• 05:31 Feedback and Impact
• 07:00 Defining Success and Discipleship
• 08:46 Challenges Faced by Young People
• 09:44 Research and Understanding
• 14:09 New Projects and Initiatives
• 17:48 Heart and Calling of Scripture Union

This interview appears in the current issue of Preach magazine, become a member today to read and engage with this interview and so much more for your preaching and church leadership.

LWPT membership: https://lwpt.org.uk/shop/?product_cat=membership#products-list

To learn more about how your church can engage with Scripture Union: https://content.scriptureunion.org.uk/equipping-your-church-mission

*This episode is sponsored by Scripture Union

In this episode, Charmaine Yip sits down with Phil Moore, the widely acclaimed author of the Straight to the Heart Bible commentary series, to discuss his latest book, The Forgotten Manifesto of Jesus: How Revival in Iran is Spreading Across the World (IVP, 2024). *This conversation was recorded in 2024, before the conflict

Drawing on remarkable stories from Iran's rapidly growing church, Phil explores how the teachings of Jesus are transforming lives, inspiring discipleship, and fuelling a movement of revival that is reaching far beyond national borders. Together, Charmaine and Phil reflect on why Jesus' words remain as powerful and relevant today as ever, and what happens when believers take them seriously in their daily lives.

This conversation offers valuable insights for church leaders, preachers, teachers, and anyone committed to sharing God's Word. As faith and church engagement continue to evolve, Phil highlights important lessons about how people encounter Scripture, respond to the gospel, and relate to spiritual leadership. His reflections challenge us to consider whether our ministries are forming disciples who not only know Jesus' teachings but live them out.

Whether you're leading a congregation, teaching a Bible study, or seeking fresh encouragement in your own faith, this inspiring discussion will help you think more deeply about revival, discipleship, and the transformative power of God's Word in today's world.

In this interview for The Word Shared, Tanya Stead speaks with Chris Doran about his new book, Climate Migration: A Christian Call to Action in a Warming World (Eerdmans, 2026). Together, they explore the growing challenge of climate migration and why it matters for church leaders today.

As extreme weather events become increasingly common, from record-breaking heatwaves to devastating wildfires and floods, what role can the Church play? How can Christians support those who are displaced by climate change, whether through sudden disasters or gradual environmental changes that make communities uninhabitable?

Chris begins by explaining what a climate migrant is and why this issue is becoming more significant across the world. He reflects on the privileges many of us enjoy in Western societies and considers what our response should be as followers of Jesus.

Tanya and Chris also discuss the biblical perspective on migration, exploring what Scripture teaches and what examples we can learn from. Along the way, Chris challenges some of the common myths surrounding migration and highlights the positive contributions migrants make to the communities they join.

Finally, Chris addresses some of the reasons people doubt or dismiss climate migration and offers a compelling challenge to church leaders to care for both people and God's good creation.

If you're a church leader, preacher, speaker, or changemaker seeking to respond faithfully to one of the defining issues of our time, this episode is for you.

For more resources for church leaders, visit www.lwpt.org.uk.

As church leaders, preachers and teachers of God's Word, we can easily become familiar with the book of Acts without fully appreciating its challenge for the Church today. In this episode, Andy Peck sits down with renowned New Testament scholar Tom Wright to discuss his latest book, Acts for Everyone and explore why Christian leaders should read Acts again.

Together they unpack the enduring relevance of this foundational New Testament book, examining how the story of the early Church continues to shape Christian leadership, discipleship, mission and witness in today's world. Drawing on decades of scholarship and ministry experience, Tom offers fresh insights into Acts that will encourage, challenge and equip anyone seeking to faithfully share the gospel.

This conversation was recorded in late 2024 and holds special significance as the first interview Andy Peck conducted for Preach magazine, and appeared in the Spring 2025 issue of Preach magazine, The Epistles. We are re-releasing it now following Andy's return home to Jesus in July, and we are grateful for his faithful ministry, wisdom and encouragement to generations of Christian leaders.

Whether you are a pastor, preacher, Bible study leader or evangelist, this episode will help you see Acts with fresh eyes and inspire you to lead and serve with renewed gospel confidence.

In this episode of The Word Shared, Tanya Stead is joined by Mark Woods for a thoughtful conversation about prayer, preaching, and how church leaders can help congregations grow in confidence and faith. Mark reflects on the importance of prayer as a core Christian discipline, while also offering practical, honest wisdom for anyone seeking to deepen their prayer life or encourage others in theirs.

Mark reads from his article, Lord, Teach Us to Pray, which explores how prayer can be nurtured in everyday life and within church communities. He explains that prayer is often treated as a basic habit, but in reality many Christians struggle with guilt, dryness, distraction, or uncertainty. Rather than forcing one “correct” approach, he encourages a healthier, more personal understanding of prayer — one that recognizes different personalities, rhythms, and needs.

From there, the episode moves into practical ideas for encouraging prayer in congregations.

Mark shares eight helpful suggestions, including:

• shared church prayer resources
• praying through scripture
• praying through the house
• the ACTS mnemonic
• stillness and silence
• using technology wisely
• prayer partnerships
• praying the Lord’s Prayer

A key thread throughout the discussion is the idea that prayer should be a blessing, not a burden. Mark emphasises that prayer is deeply personal and that leaders can help people discover their own authentic way of praying. He also reflects on the importance of listening to God, not just speaking to God, and of being open to a genuine two-way conversation in prayer.

The episode closes with a reading of Matthew 6:9–13, including the Lord’s Prayer, and a reminder that even when our own words fail us, we always have the words of Jesus.

In this episode, you’ll hear about:

• how prayer can become a healthy, life-giving habit
• practical ways to encourage prayer in churches
• the importance of listening as part of prayer
• why vulnerability in preaching must be handled with care
• the value of humility, preparation, and God-centred storytelling

Featured Scripture:

Matthew 6:9–13

In this special archive episode from 2022, we revisit a powerful and deeply insightful conversation with Pastor Marjorie Esomowei, co-pastor of Triumphant Church International, which she planted alongside her husband, Pastor Clem Esomowei.

Speaking with Louisa Lockwood (Editor of Preach magazine), Pastor Marjorie reflects on the release of her book The Leading Lady and opens up about the lessons she’s learned—sometimes the hard way—as well as the blessings that come from trusting God’s voice and faithfully following His assignments.

• Pastor Marjorie’s remarkable journey, including over a decade of ministry in Holland’s red light district
• How a God-given vision for women’s salvation shaped her calling
• The importance of listening to the Lord in every season
• Living a balanced Christian life in today’s world
• Insights on emotional intelligence, including what we can learn from Moses’ anger
• Honest discussion around leadership dynamics, including “alpha male” personalities
• The often-overlooked soul and mental health challenges of lockdown, with a biblical reflection on Noah’s experience after the Ark

Throughout the conversation, Pastor Marjorie draws powerful connections between biblical narratives and modern life, offering wisdom that is both practical and spiritually rich.

• Learn more about Triumphant Church International:
  https://www.triumphant.org.uk/
• Get your copy of The Leading Lady:
  https://theleadingladybook.co.uk/

Most Christians’ views on immigration, refugees, and hospitality are being challenged more than ever. Krish Kandiah’s new edition of God is Stranger reveals how scripture calls us to see God's presence in the stranger—and how neglecting this call risks turning faith into a tool of fear.

This episode breaks down practical ways to embody biblical hospitality, from welcoming refugees into our homes to challenging the narratives that fuel fear. How can we — as individuals and communities — embody Christ’s love in a world fraught with polarization? This episode reminds us that welcoming others is not just kindness—it’s an act of faith, justice, and obedience to God.

Krish Kandiah is founder and director of Sanctuary Foundation, championing refugee and asylum seeker support across the UK. His work challenges believers to reconsider what it truly means to love our neighbour and see God's image in everyone.

God Is Stranger: The Surprising Power of Hospitality (Hodder & Stoughton, 2026) https://www.hachette.co.uk/titles/krish-kandiah/god-is-stranger/9781399837774/

Liz Tabish’s portrayal of Mary Magdalene in The Chosen offers a profound look at faith, doubt, and redemption. This episode explores how Liz’s personal journey through depression and renewal brings authenticity to her role, resonating with those seeking grace.

Why does this matter? Because in a culture obsessed with superficial perfection, Liz’s story reminds us that authenticity, pain, and vulnerability are integral to faith. Her journey encourages us to embrace our flaws, recognize that resurrection is a process, and that divine grace meets us right where we are — no matter how broken we feel.

Key Insights:

• Authenticity in Ministry: Embrace vulnerability as a strength in your sermons.
• Media’s Role in Faith: Use storytelling to deepen spiritual connections.
• Women in Scripture: Highlight the equality and complexity of biblical women.
• Personal Growth: Encourage congregants to see their struggles as part of a greater story of grace.

Tune in for inspiration and practical insights to enrich your ministry, please rate our podcast on your favourite streaming platform and share this episode with your friends. Doing this helps us reach more listeners and support those serving in ministry.

For more info: www.lwpt.org.uk

Discover how biblical wilderness journeys mirror our inner struggles and how faith, community, and liturgical practices can provide comfort and resilience in seasons of mental health challenges.

• Connecting Israel’s wilderness journey to mental health struggles
• The significance of lament and honest prayer in faith communities
• The role of patience and ongoing presence in pastoral care
• How liturgical seasons like Advent and Lent foster healing and honesty
• Practical strategies for churches to support members experiencing mental illness
• The importance of rest, recovery, and stepping back in seasons of difficulty
• Introducing Rachael’s new devotional book: Beloved is Where We Begin (SPCK, 2025)

• Beloved is Where We Begin Book - (Link to Rachael’s devotional on Amazon) St Andrew's Books
• Preach Magazine
• Leaders of Worship & Preachers Trust

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In this interview Tanya Stead, editor of Preach magazine, chats with Kirsten Birkett, author of the new Hodder Bible Commentary: Proverbs.

Kirsten Birkett's commentary on Proverbs offers a fresh perspective on this timeless book of wisdom. By understanding the literary form, appreciating the interconnectedness of wisdom literature, and applying its principles thoughtfully, readers can unlock the profound insights that Proverbs has to offer. Whether for personal study or leadership guidance, Kirsten's work serves as a valuable resource for anyone seeking to grow in wisdom and understanding.

To get yourself a copy: https://www.hachette.co.uk/titles/kir...

To read this interview, and enjoy the other articles, in Preach magazine take out membership today: https://www.preachweb.org/membership

To learn more about the Leaders of Worship and Preachers Trust visit: https://lwpt.org.uk/

In this episode of The Word Shared, Tanya Stead sits down with Tobi Olujinmi to explore the enduring theme of joy in Christ — especially in seasons of suffering.

Drawing on her experience in the TV industry and her love of storytelling, Tobi reflects on how stories shape us, connect us, and even carry us through crisis. Together they talk about the power of Christian community, the importance of vulnerability in the church, and why hope is not naïve optimism but rooted confidence in God.

This is a conversation about honesty, endurance, and the deep joy that sustains us when life feels heavy. Tobi reminds us that suffering is real — but it is not final. Spring follows winter. Joy follows sorrow. And the joy of the Lord truly is our strength.

Listen in for encouragement, perspective, and a renewed vision of what it means to walk together in hope.

To learn more about the book, Light in the Valley of the Shadow of Death from Langham Light in the Valley of the Shadow of Death

To get a copy of the issue, What is Joy, where Tobi reads from: Issue 31 - Joy — Preach magazine - a resource for preachers and worship leaders, putting world events into a biblical context

*this episode is sponsored by Langham Publishing

In this conversation, Charmaine Yip talks with theologian David Ford about his lifelong engagement with the Gospel of John, exploring its authorship, distinctive style, and the depth of meaning woven throughout its pages. David reflects on why John’s Gospel is so central to Christian theology, how it reveals the identity of Jesus, and how its “waves of meaning” invite us to deeper faith, worship and self-understanding.

David also introduces his new Advent resource, Meeting God in John (SPCK 2025), designed to guide individuals and groups through the Gospel during Lent and beyond, offering a way to read Scripture slowly, prayerfully and in community.

In this interview, you’ll discover:
- Why the Gospel of John is essential for Christian faith and theology
- What makes John’s Gospel different from the Synoptic Gospels
- How John reveals the identity of Jesus
- What David means by the “superabundance” of God’s love
- Why reading Scripture with others deepens understanding
- How John invites us to reflect on our own identity and desires
- How to engage with John’s Gospel during Lent and beyond

Explore More Resources

View our Bible Month resources — in-depth Bible teaching for churches and small groups
Discover David Ford’s new Advent resource, Meeting God in John — available now
Explore more Preach resources on our website — articles, workshops, webinars and preaching tools

Preach magazine is a resource of the Leaders of Worship and Preachers Trust, supporting those called to preach and lead worship.

In this episode, James Catford reads from one of his earlier articles published in Preach magazine, reflecting on the role of personality profiling in Christian leadership. Drawing on his own journey from initial scepticism to thoughtful engagement, James explores tools such as Myers-Briggs and the Enneagram, and how they have shaped his self-understanding and leadership practice.

As he reads and reflects, James considers how personality assessments can help leaders navigate the complexities of human relationships, strengthen communication, and foster healthier team dynamics. He also offers a careful warning against using these tools to label or limit others, instead encouraging their wise and compassionate use as aids to growth, understanding, and collaboration in ministry and beyond.

To read this article in full and explore more thoughtful writing like this, find the issue of Preach magazine or take out membership today to receive access to the magazine and our wider resources.

Preach issue 14 | Whole life Preaching | Spring 2018

Preach membership

Our website: www.lwpt.org.uk

In this thoughtful and engaging conversation, Louisa Lockwood is joined by bestselling author and theologian Philip Yancey, along with theologian and poet Carolyn Whittenall, to explore Yancey’s latest book, A Companion in Crisis (Darton, Longman and Todd Ltd, 2022).

The book is a modern paraphrase of John Donne’s Devotions Upon Emergent Occasions, written while Donne was seriously ill during the bubonic plague of the 1600s. Yancey shares how Donne’s raw reflections on suffering, faith, illness, mortality, and trust in God feel strikingly relevant today.

Together, they discuss:

• John Donne’s life as a priest and poet during a time of plague
• Why Donne’s struggles with doubt and death still resonate today
• How faith can survive — and even deepen — in times of crisis
• The communal nature of suffering and our call to compassion
• Why ancient spiritual writings still matter in the modern world

This conversation offers hope, honesty, and depth, inviting listeners to wrestle with big questions and discover how Donne’s words can guide us through our own seasons of pain and uncertainty.

✨ Whether you’re interested in Christian faith, theology, spiritual resilience, John Donne, or finding meaning in suffering, this discussion will encourage and challenge you.

This interview is from 2022 but still offers clarity and wisdom to us today. Leave a comment or review our podcast to learn more.

To view the Bible Month resource: https://www.preachweb.org/biblemonth

In this conversation, Andy Peck and Dr. Andrew Ollerton discuss Andrew's book, God's Book: An Honest Look at the Bible's Seven Toughest Topics,* exploring challenging themes within the Bible. He emphasises the importance of context, Christ, and community in understanding these topics, while also addressing the complexities of progressive revelation, science and faith, and the emotional weight of discussing judgment and hell. Andrew encourages open dialogue and acknowledges the diversity of thought within Christianity, aiming to provide a resource that opens up discussion and understanding among readers and congregations.

To purchase God's Book - https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/1399806459?ref_=cm_sw_r_ffobk_cp_ud_dp_22AEYXGH047CSG8H0ZGF

To view the resources for churches and small groups - andrewollerton.com

Takeaways

• The seven topics chosen reflect the challenges faced in contemporary culture.
• Context is crucial for understanding difficult biblical passages.
• Reading the Bible in light of Christ is essential.
• Community engagement is key to making sense of tough topics.
• Progressive revelation helps us understand the development of biblical themes.
• Personal perspectives can shift through in-depth research.
• Judgment and hell are emotionally challenging topics to address.
• Preachers should embrace a range of views on secondary issues.
• The book aims to be a resource for both individuals and congregations.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Tough Topics in the Bible

04:05 The Seven Toughest Topics Explored

07:53 Progressive Revelation: Understanding Biblical Context

11:25 Researching Creation and Science

13:54 Changing Perspectives Through Research

17:13 Emotional Challenges of Judgment and Hell

20:31 Navigating Certainty in Preaching

23:53 Utilizing the Book in Church Settings

The Word Shared is a podcast from the Leaders of Worship and Preachers Trust and Preach magazine.

*This interview was sponsored by Hodder Faith.

To learn more about the Leaders of Worship and Preachers Trust visit - https://lwpt.org.uk/

To become a member and receive Preach magazine - https://www.preachweb.org/membership

In this Preach archival conversation, Elaine Storkey discusses her insights on the Gospel of Matthew, exploring themes such as genealogy, prophecy, social action, and the role of women in the New Testament. Elaine emphasizes the importance of understanding the cultural context of biblical texts and the need for greater biblical literacy in contemporary society. She also highlights the significance of women's voices in the early church and the ongoing relevance of Jesus's teachings in today's world.

Book references:

Meeting God in Matthew by Elaine Storkey (SPCK, 2022)

Women in a Patriarchal World: Twenty-five Empowering Stories from the Bible by Elaine Storkey (SPCK, 2020)

Takeaways

• Elaine Storkey emphasizes the Jewish context of Matthew's Gospel.
• The nativity story according to Matthew and the Christmas message.
• God's message is inclusive, reaching out to all backgrounds.
• Education in churches is crucial for understanding biblical texts.
• Prophecy in the Bible has deeper meanings beyond initial fulfillment.
• Social action is a natural outcome of genuine faith.
• Jesus's teachings on divorce protect vulnerable individuals.
• The Samaritan woman's encounter with Jesus highlights redemption.
• Women played significant roles in the early church, as seen in Priscilla's leadership.
• Understanding the intent of biblical texts is essential for interpretation.

Chapters

00:00 Exploring 'Meeting God in Matthew'

06:53 The Significance of Genealogy in Matthew

09:59 Understanding Prophecy and Its Deeper Meanings

12:56 Social Action and the Gospel's Call

16:48 Jesus' Radical View on Marriage and Divorce

20:20 The Samaritan Woman: A Case Study in Redemption

25:12 Mary Magdalene: Apostle to the Apostles

31:09 Women in the Early Church and Paul's Teachings

In this episode of The Word Shared, Tanya Stead and Mark Woods discuss the importance of vulnerability in preaching. They explore how personal stories can enhance sermons but also highlight the risks involved in sharing personal experiences. Mark shares insights from his own ministry, emphasizing the need for preachers to connect with their congregations while maintaining a focus on God. The conversation culminates in reflections on the nature of sermons and the impact they can have on listeners.

Key takeaways

• Vulnerability in preaching can create deeper connections.
• Personal stories should point beyond the preacher to God.
• Sermons are fundamentally about God, not the preacher.
• Careful consideration is needed when sharing personal experiences.
• Illustrations in sermons should illuminate biblical truths.
• Preachers must balance personal experiences with congregational needs.
• Humility is essential when addressing real human situations.
• All sermons have value, even if they don't resonate with everyone.
• The heart of preaching is about connecting with the audience.
• Every sermon is an opportunity for God to speak through the preacher.

If you'd like to purchase the issue of Preach magazine that Mark has read from, then please visit www.preachweb.com/issues and choose Vulnerability in Preaching (Issue 15)

Chapters

00:00 Introduction

01:24 Personal Stories in Ministry

04:25 Vulnerability in Preaching

19:14 Bible Month Philippians

20:39 Reflections on vulnerably sharing stories

AD: Pre-order your copy of Bible Month Philippians from our website: Bible Month Philippians

Sharing God's Word effectively, faithfully and truthfully. Inspiring conversations for those called to preach and lead with faith.

In this episode, Ian Buchanan, CEO of the Leaders of Worship and Preachers Trust (LWPT), sits down with Tanya Stead, editor of Preach magazine, for an inspiring conversation about preaching and sharing God’s Word. Together, they reflect on their favourite issues of Preach, offer encouragement to preachers, and explore what it means to grow spiritually while leading a congregation.

Want to learn more about the work of LWPT? Watch this video: LWPT Overview
Feeling led to support their mission? You can donate here: Donate to LWPT

Preach magazine is a quarterly publication that brings together a range of voices around a central theme. Each issue tackles either cultural topics shaping the 21st century or delves deeper into Scripture, offering fresh insights and encouragement for sharing God’s Word effectively, faithfully, and truthfully.

Discover more about Preach magazine here: Visit Preach

Welcome to The Word Shared! A podcast produced by the Leaders of Worship and Preachers Trust and Preach magazine.

In this introduction, Ian and Tanya share the hope for this podcast. They'll share what the podcast content will be and who they hope will tune in and listen.

You'll listen in to conversations between church leaders about preaching and sermon preparation and how to lead well. We'll also talk about how to share God's Word in whichever context we find ourselves in. We'll listen to prominent voices from the UK and some further abroad about theological ideas, and faithfully interpreting Scripture.

We hope that this podcast will be an encouragement to anyone; church leader, lay reader, minister, pastor, small group leader, home group leader, bible study, book club, pastoral care, or those who are moved to share the Word of God - as he has instructed us to in Matthew 28:19-20. Amen.

If you'd like to find out more about who the Leaders of Worship and Preachers Trust is and what we do, watch this video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=omeNFG_671Y