Explore every episode of the podcast Edgar Andrews' Podcast

Acts 16:6–12. Paul's experiences during his second missionay journey make exciting reading but were, of course, quite different from our own. Nevertheless, we find in the experiences of the Apostle and his companions, principles of divine guidance that are timelessly true. Their reliance on the Holy Spirit as he both closes doors and opens them, emerges as the primary factor in bringing the Gospel to Europe then, and for us to imitate today.  

This episode breaks down the biblical worldview presented by the Apostle Paul in Acts 17 where he addressed the Athenian philosophers.. We outline key interlocking elements of the biblical worlview such as God as Creator and Lord of heaven and earth; divine providence; God's sovereignty over man and nature; and the immanence of his Spirit throughout the cosmos. Finally we also touch briefly on human origins, sin and accountability, and the centrality of Jesus Christ to the entire scheme of things, matters that are treated in detail in the next chapter, "Adam and the Apple" and subsequent chapters.

In Lystra Paul meets Timothy, a respected young disciple of Jewish heritage with a Greek father (Acts 15 and16). Recognising his potential, Paul undertakes the demanding task of preparing his young friend for ministry and future leadership. He circumcises him for strategic reasons, adds him to his travelling companions and patientl,y mentors him by teaching and example for many years. We too need mentors throughout our Christian lives that, like Timothy, we also might bear fruit to God's glory. 

In this one-off reading from the author's book "What is Man?" we ask whether reality exists independently of our perception of it. Some philosophers, and notably the late cosmologist Stephen Hawking in his last book "The Grand Design", think the answer is no. In refuting these ideas we show how a coherent biblical worldview grounded in divine inspiration, prophecy, and historical evidence, provides us with the objective reality we need to understand both the world around us and our place in it. For example, modern science would be impossible unless such a "real reality" exists.

Acts 15:22–41 recount the final outcome of the Council of Jerusalem council’s, namely the letter to the Gentile churches, the guidance given to preserve Jewish–Gentile fellowship, and the importance of mature churches encourageing younger ones. It also shows how God even uses the sharp disagreement between Paul and Barnabas over John Mark to create two missionary teams in the place of one, hastening the spread of the gospel to the Gentiles and demonstrating that all things do work together for good.

Although Paul did not learn the gospel from the Apostles, the Council of Jerusalem established finally that he preached a gospel identical to that of the Apostles. This "apostolic gospel" had been revealed separately to Paul and the original Apostles, a fact that underwrites it's divine origin. But the success of this gospel depends also on its being preached "not in word only" but in the [power of] the Holy Spirit. who also brings unity in the gospel and good works as the fruit of grace. 

Before Esther and Mordecai can implement their plan to save the Jews from Haman’s genocidal edict, there are four things that Esther must know. She must know (1) "the times", (2) the King, (3) Haman, her enemy, and (4) her God. She arranges a private feast for the King and Haman during which she observes both Haman’s implacable intentions and the King's dislike of Haman's pride. Haman plans to have Mordecai executed the following day but God sovereignly frustrates his plan that very night, as the King, unable to sleep, reads the record of Mordecai’s unrewarded service, and determines to honour him.

We explore Galatians 2:3–5 ("Free in Christ" chapter 6) seeing how Judaizing teachers threatened the gospel by mixing faith with works and seeking to impose the Old Covenant on Gentile believers. Paul’s account of the Jerusalem Council, the role of Titus, and his warning against returning to the law are summarized, emphasizing that salvation is by faith in Christ alone and that accepting circumcision as a requirement for salvation undermines the New Covenant in Christ.

We examine Haman's edict to annihilate the Jews throughout the vast Persian Empire, how he secured royal authority and funding, and the terrifying scope of the edict. We follow the response of the Jews—fasting (implying urgent prayer) and Esther’s risky decision to act following Mordecai’s prophetic words that God had brought Esther to the kingdom “for such a time as this.” We develop themes of hatred versus God’s justice, the power of prayer, and our dependence on God if we find ourselves without human support.

In Gal. 1:10 to 2:16 we see Paul engaged in two battles as he fights for the purity of the gospel. The first was to convince the Galatians that he had received his gospel directly by revelation from God, not from the other apostles. This was vital because the Judaizers had come from Jerusalem, implying apostolic authority whereas Paul had not. The second battle was directly against the Judaizers at the Council of Jerusalem where Paul found himself in total agreement with the original apostles. Both battles were won.

This episode examines Luke 15’s prodigal son parable, contrasting the younger son’s selfish devaluation of his inheritance with Christ’s sacrificial love and purpose. It highlights the father’s mercy, the son’s repentance, and how redemption and gifts are ultimately God’s work. Key themes include repentance as a gift, the true value of redemption through Christ, and the transforming grace that restores the lost to life and sonship.

This episode introduces Haman—the highly promoted official whose Amalekite ancestry makes him hate the Jews and drives him to plot their destruction throughout the empire. We see his rise to power, how by stealth he secured the king’s signet ring, and how he used it to issue an edict for the Jwish genocide. But God uses Haman's superstitious search for an auspicious date for action, to delay and ultimately frustrate his plans, demonstrating divine sovereignty over apparent chance.

This episode is the fourth reading from “Free in Christ,” unpacking Galatians 1:13–24. It traces Paul’s background in Judaism, his dramatic calling by God’s grace, and his commission to preach Christ—especially to the Gentiles. We explore why Paul’s gospel stands independent of human authority, how our completeness in Christ leaves no room for added rituals or works, and why preaching Christ alone safeguards believers from false teaching.

In 1 Corinthians 1:18-25. Paul expounds the profound contrast between the wisdom of the world and the wisdom of God. He defines the wisdom of the world as any wisdom, however prized by man that is ineffective in enabling us to know God (not just to know about God). Meanwhile, God's wisdom, working through the Holy Spirit, Scriptures, and the Saviour, provides the path to true knowledge and salvation. (Previously published in 2022).

In one of the most vehement passages of the New Testament, Paul denounces any deviations from the gospel he preached, warning the Galatians that disaster awaits if they turn to "a different gospel." Paul's writings reflect deep concern for the Galatians who, though genuine believers, were being led astray by false teachers. He argues passionately for the preservation of the pure gospel emphasizing that its purpose is ultimately not to please man but to glorify God. 

Conflicts arose in the early church when some insisted that Gentiles must adopt Jewish laws before they could become Christians (Acts 15:22-41). Guided by the Holy Spirit, the Apostles affirmed that salvation was by faith alone through grace alone and that Gentile and Jewish believers must live in harmony despite cultural differences. A quite different disagreement between Paul and Barnabas over John Mark's role in ministry was resolved by their going their different ways. In both cases biblical principles were applied to settle disputes, providing lessons for church leadership and unity today.

The second reading from the book "Free in Christ'' introduces us to seven characteristics of Paul's Gospel; it is a message of grace, peace, salvation, deliverance, Christ centredness, God's purpose and God's glory. Paul's transformative use of common greetings to depict profound theological truths, emphasizes that salvation is an unearned gift from God and that the glory of God is both the source and goal of our salvation. This episode challenges some modern interpretations of the Gospel and reminds us of the centrality of Christ in redemption. 

We embark on a series of readings from my book Free in Christ, a "read-like-a-book" commentary on the Epistle to the Galatians. In this opening episode, we explore the foundational questions posed by the epistle: Who was Paul? What is the Gospel? These questions are as vital today as they were in the past, since the Apostle's answers make clear the divine origin of the Scriptures and of Paul's authority to teach them. He outlines the essence of the Gospel as he greets the Galatian churches, setting the stage for a liberating exploration of spiritual freedom in Christ as the epistle unfolds.

The encounter between Jesus and Nicodemus a leading figure in Jewish society,  addresses the fundamental concept of spiritual rebirth (John 3:1-17). Jesus challenges Nicodemus' understanding of spirituality, emphasizing the necessity of being 'born again', a spiritual transformation that transcends human capabilities. Drawing from scripture, this narrative reveals the nature of spiritual rebirth, the divine role of the Holy Spirit, and the path to salvation. 

NOTE; repetition at 11 minutes for benefit of late arrivals.

We show how an Old Testament psalm helps us understand an important New Testament passage. Usually we use the NT to help explain the OT but here the reverse is true. Romans 12:1-2 consists of three exhortations; don't be conformed to the ungodly ways of the world, be transformed by the renewal of our minds; and discover the will of God. But how can we perform these functions? We find the answers in Psalm 1.

1 Corinthians 6:12-20 sheds light on Paul's high regard for the unmarried state and presents the idea of a spiritual marriage to Christ, as a satisfying alternative to physical marriage. We also find here a powerful analogy between the human body and the local church as an organic, harmonious entity—a body of Christ where each member plays a vital role. Finally, the episode explores what it means to be a "slave of Christ"—serving righteousness rather than sin, offering listeners a refreshed perspective on Christian freedom as, married or unmarried, we seek to glorify God in every aspect of our lives.

Paul's passion for the gospel emerges as we explore the true nature of a gospel that is defined by grace, strategic methodology and urgency. of preaching. The apostle insists that salvation is an unearned gift from God, requires us to find common ground to engage with diverse audiences, and like a race is a matter of urgency for the hearers', challenging professing believers to live lives that evidence their salvation by bearing the fruit of the Spirit. 

Focusing on his teaching about God's provisions for His people (1 Corinthians 10) Paul highlights the danger of false believers within the church and urges the faithful to examine themseles for true spiritual fruit. Drawing parallels with the Israelites' Exodus, Paul  identifies six divine provisions that prefigured those given to us under the New Covenant, including escape from judgement and spiritual nourishment through Christ. 

This week in 1 Corinthians 10:14 we explore the profound significance of the Lord's Table, seeing how the corporate celebration of communion empowers the local church and those who participate individually. It defines our fellowship with God and one another (thus defining the true Church), it is a fortress against the temptations of Satan, and a source of joy to believers.

Book of Esther is a significant piece of history that unfolded 450 years before Christ in the vast Persian Empire. Within this narrative, the sovereignty of God is central, subtly intervening to save the Jewish race from possible extermination. This episode explores how God used Mordecai to thwart a conspiracy against King Ahasuerus. Even amid seemingly random events, God frequently accomplishes His sovereign purposes by working through those who obey His Word. Are you among them? 

Churches today are riven with disputes but this is nothing new. Acts 15 addresses the greatest dispute faced by the early church, providing not just historical information but also an example of how such conflicts should be managed and resolved, today as then. The dispute concerned the false teaching promoted by some Jewish Christians that Gentile converts must obey the Mosaic Law to achieve salvation. We learn why faith must take precedence 

Psalm 73 explores Asaph's spiritual journey, laying bare his doubts and struggles when he sees tthe wicked prosper while he himslf feels   neglected by God. Yet he refuses to vocalize his doubts for fear of causing other believers to stumble. What can he do? He enters  the sanctuary of God and gains an understanding of divine sovereignty and wisdom and the ever-present reality of God. So also believers today suffer periods of spiritual desolation but ultimately find comfort and clarity through faith in Christ as he speaks to us in Scripture.

If you applied for a job but found you were one of a thousand equally qualified applicants you would not rate your chances highly. Unless of course the owner of the firm happened to be your father. So in Esther 2:1-18 we see the sovereign God ensuring that a Jewess becomes Queen of Persia because His purpose to preserve the Jewish race requires that to happen. 

The Bible's book of Esther is an historical narrative saturated with God's presence despite His name never being mentioned. Set against the backdrop of the powerful Persian Empire,we explore the sovereignty of God through six pivotal events leading to Esther's eventually bcoming Queen. Discover the historical intricacies and divine interventions that preserved the Jewish people, paving the way for the fulfillment of ancient messianic promises. 

We identify three themes in the benediction in Hebrews 13:20–21: what Easter reveals about God the Father, God the Son, and our own spiritual nature. First, we discuss the idea of God as the "God of peace," and our need to understand that by nature we are at war with God until we make our personal peace with him through faith in Christ. When we do we will know the "peace of God" that transcends all understanding ((Philippians 4:7) The episode next examines the resurrection of Christ by God the Father, emphasizing God's glory and the predetermined plan involving the redeeming work of Christ. Finally, we see how an understanding of the Easter message can transform our spiritual lives.

In the first seven verses of Paul's second letter to the Corinthians we examine how starting with God and following Paul's guidance offers us a new perspective, one that redefines the way we face challenges. By focusing on worship and the assurance of God's sovereign power, we see how believers can find comfort and strength during times of trouble.

This episode (Revelation 1:4-8) unveils the central themes of The book of Revelation, namely the revelation and glory of Jesus Christ, and the role of the triune God behind it. Jesus Christ is the faithful witness, the firstborn from the dead, and the ruler of the kings of the earth. The passage links these descriptions of Christ's Person to His work of loving his spiritual children, cleansing them from sin, and elevating them to be priests and kings in the service of the God who is the ultimate ruler of all, the Alpha and Omega of all that exists. 

Paul concludes his first letter to the Corinthians with a simple catalogue of greetings but we find that these greetings are rooted in Christ's "new commandment" to love our fellow believers as He loves us. But exactly how has Christ loved us? In a multitude of ways of course, but we identify one way which is easily overlooked ... He loves us inter-personally (on a person to person basis). We explore how this works out in our love for one-another.

In this episode, we conclude our exploration of Paul's first letter to the Corinthian church with chapter 16, focusing on the final instructions he imparts. These instructions are not mere suggestions but are demands for obedience, designed to sustain the church’s spiritual integrity in the face of rising heresy and persecution. Paul emphasizes qualities such as watchfulness, bravery, and strength, all underpinned by a foundation of love that originates from the Spirit of God. We observe how each directive flows logically into the next, forming a comprehensive guide to Christian living. Paul’s teachings extend beyond specific actions to embody a larger framework applicable to all believers, urging them to perform all deeds with love and for the glory of God. Ultimately, this episode invites listeners to adopt a way of life that transforms every thought, word, and deed into expressions of divine love, the fruit of the Holy Spirit. 

Visiting preacher Raj Sahota,  converted to Christ from the Sikh religion, explores in Ephesians 4 Paul's teaching on the unity, character, and progress of the church,   challenging believers to walk worthy of their calling by embracing humility, gentleness, and love for one another. Discover the historical context of Paul's letter and understand how foundational doctrines shape our response to the call to live as true disciples of Christ, bearing fruit through spiritual growth and fostering harmony within our faith community.

Which is more important, the death of Christ or his resurrection? Neither, they are two sides of the same gospel coin. However, in evangelism the resurrection becomes specially significant because while few dispute the historicity of Christ's death many dispute its spiritual meaning as a work of atonement. The resurrection however proves the validity of the gospel and is itself proven by being predicted in Old Testament scripture.. 

We consider the theophanies experienced by Abraham in the Old Testament, where God appears and makes promises that shape the future of nations. We see the unchanging nature of God's promises and how they work out in the lives of believers through faith in Christ. We also see how God reveals His divine purposes and answers our prayers, giving us assurance and guidance in our own spiritual walk with Him.

How many covenants did God make with mankind? Just three. The Covenant with Abraham,  the Covenant of Sinai, and the New Covenant in the blood of Christ (which includes the eternal covenant of Isaiah 55:3). We show that there are two kinds of covenant, a covenant of promise in which gifts are made without requiring anything in return (like a will) and a covenant of works which is broken if either party fails to perform its duties under the covenant (like a contract). See which kind are God's covenants and what this means to us. 

When is a free gospel also an obligation (to both preacher and hearer?) We reflect on the Apostle Paul's joy in preaching a gospel that is without charge (1 Corinthians 9:18-27). He emphasizes the concept of 'gospel liberty' - the freedom found in spreading the good news without charge, which allows him to distance himself from false apostles and highlights the grace of God. But he proceeds to highlight the paradox that his free gospel puts him under an urgent obligation to all men.

Are you a servant of Christ? Comparing the servant who would not leave his master (Exodus 21:1-6) with Christ's obedience to the Father in going to the cross (John 12:23-33) Phil Watson demonstrates what it really means, both in its cost and its reward, to take Christ's yoke and follow Him.

Some Christians call their leaders "Your grace" when neither they nor those so addressed have the slightest idea what the Bible means by grace. The apostle Paul puts the record straight in the first nine verses of 1 Corinthians, revealing its necessity, power and glory for us today.

Today's passage (Acts 9:32-43) contains two examples of a general principle. The principle is that the Holy Spirit, working through His servants and the Word of God, is uniquely able to restore human beings to fellowship with God. The first example is an unsaved young man and the second is a faithful and generous believer, so the principle applies to any needy person today as then.

Sharing your faith with individuals bears much fruit. Tearing Philip from the crowds to which he preached in Samaria, the Holy Spirit sends him to evangelise a single traveller, the Eunuch from Ethiopia. A waste of Philip's talents? By no means, for this black African became a missionary to his own people, helping to fulfil Christ's promise that every nation would hear the gospel. 

If the dead rise, in what form do they do so? Paul recognises this seemingly harmless question as a new attack on his doctrine. Replying, he shows that creation itself is hugely diverse so by analogy humans have not only physical bodies but also spiritual bodies. He unveils the nature and fate of both. 

While Saul of Tarsus tried to destroy the infant church in Jerusalem, it was growing rapidly in Samaria where Philip had gone to preach the gospel. Lesson? Suppress God's work in one place and it will prosper somewhere else.

This is the speech delivered by scientist and creationist Professor Edgar Andrews when he went head-to-head with Oxford Professor and atheist Richard Dawkins at the 1986 Oxford Union debate on the motion "The doctrine of creation is more valid than the theory of evolution".

The martyrdom of Stephen (Acts 7) was a turning point for the early church.  Chris Boraston identifies the changes that it brought about including the dispersion of the gospel beyond Judea, the redundancy of Temple worship and the universal presence of God, the explosive growth of the church, the intensification of persecution, and its impact on  the future Apostle Paul. 

Stephen (Acts 7) was accused of blasphemy against the Mosaic law and the Temple but his accusers  could not grasp that these institutions were only "shadows of the true", pictures of the Christ who had now come. We must avoid two errors; dismissing the OT as irrelevant and putting new-covenant believers under its demands.  

Did Adam and Eve really exist or were they just mythological, as Darwinian "common descent" asserts? We examine the arguments advanced by evolutionists that the genetic diversity of modern man makes it impossible for us to have descended from a single couple. Here we refute these claims on both scientific and biblical grounds, showing them to be based on unjustified assumptions and circular reasoning.

A gifted servant of Christ is falsely accused and tragically martyred for telling the truth. Yet this exemplifies in a special way that "the blood of the martyrs is the seed of the church". Not only did the growth of the church accelerate after this event but it was the first step in the spiritual journey that turned Saul of Tarsus into Paul the Apostle.