Lectures and discussions
All recordings are available on audio cassette tape. Some recordings
are also available on CD, or may be produced to order on CD –
please ask.
Click on the series title or subject below to go to details of the recordings available.
| Thinking Christianly about biological complexity: a critical appraisal of the intelligent design movement | The scandal of poverty and inequality. A Christian response – new challenge to mission | The Church and homosexuality today | Care – not killing: Christian perspectives on the current euthanasia debates | The Church and homosexuality today | The forgotten ‘grandfather’ of Protestant mission: perspectives on globalisation from Jean de Lery | When the Lord walks the land: revival – then and now | Postmodernism: swimming against the tide | Caring for the earth: a challenge to scientists and Christians | Age matters: Christian perspectives on growing old | Pastoral issues in stress and depression | Christian communication in a multimedia age | The genetic revolution: Christian ethics at the cutting edge | From Sinai to Azusa Street: historical and contemporary perspectives on the Holy Spirit | Jubilee 2000: an ongoing concern | Word and Spirit (RT Kendall) | Christians and the Scottish Parliament | The future of the family | Mind before matter: modern cosmology and the understanding of design | Truth, power and love: the influence of four major Scottish Christians | Looking at the Bible in its ancient world (archeology) | The Christian and the mind – issues in psychiatry and faith | Brave new world: moral dilemmas in modern medicine | Effective evangelism for the new century | From decline to growth (church growth) | The Great Omission – is the age of Western missionaries past? | Conversations on science and faith | In the beginning: biblical and scientific accounts of origins | Faith in our time | Training for Christian service | Business ethics | Scotland: gospel and culture | Preach the Word | Christian reflections on feminism | Care in the community: a Christian response | Christianity in multi-faith Britain | Can the West be converted? | Greens, Gaia and God: Christianity and environmental ethics | The right to die? A discussion on the termination of life | Kingdom come (evangelism) | Issues facing charismatic Christianity | Interpreting the Bible | Sex and ethics | The marks, mission and ministry of an effective local church | Social issues facing Christians today |
Most recordings of lectures are £3.00 each. Some discussions and shorter talks/seminars are £2.00. Sets of recordings usually cost less than the same recordings bought individually. Full details of prices are in the price list, or click on ‘Prices’ after the description of each series. There is also a recording loan/exchange scheme.
| About the Aberdeen School of Christian Studies | How to order audio recordings | Price list |
Christians in different parts of the world are getting excited about ‘intelligent design’ (ID), the movement initiated by Philip Johnson (Darwin on Trial) and best known from the work of Michael Behe (Darwin’s Black Box) and William Dembski (The Design Revolution). It points to aspects of biological systems that, because of their ‘irreducible complexity’ or ‘specified complexity’, are difficult to explain; it seems to many an ideal tool to use as a ‘wedge’ to split the log of our materialist, secularist culture, and to open modern and post-modern minds to the possibility of a God who interacts with the world and who might be knowable. The times seem propitious: after all, has not as well-known a former atheist as the philosopher, Professor Anthony Flew, indicated that he is now convinced, in view of these kinds of arguments, that it is probable that God exists?
It is the purpose of the conference to assess this movement, in a sympathetic but not uncritical way, so that Christians, especially those in leadership and those engaged with young people in schools and universities, may be better equipped to understand its strengths and weaknesses, and to decide whether to promote it, especially in their evangelistic and pre-evangelistic activities. We hope to provide an opportunity for helpful debate which will clarify the real issues at stake. (2007)
(Recordings available after 24 March 2007.)
| Ref | |
Thinking Christianly about science. Lecture by Dr Ard Louis
 |
511 |
| Intelligent design: strengths and weaknesses. Lecture by Dr Ard Louis | 512 |
| Debate following lectures | 513 |
The scandal of poverty and inequality. A Christian response – new challenge to mission
The lecture by Dr Daleep Mukarji, Director of Christian Aid, sets out the facts and situation of global poverty and inequality, and explores some ways in which Christians, working with others, can respond to the greatest challenges that face the world today. This could help Christians put their faith into action and recognise Christ’s call to help build a more just, inclusive, healthy and sustainable world - in the perspectives of the reign of God. Ordinary people can make a difference: they can be part of a movement for global social justice and poverty eradication. This is a revitalisation of the mission of the Church - sent to preach the gospel that must be good news to the poor and to promote the values and reality of the Kingdom. Building this new world community becomes integral to the life and witness of the Church. There is a challenge for Christians today, to become involved in the policies and politics that can help influence key decision makers and institutes which have the power to make a difference for poor people and poor countries. (2006)
| Ref | |
| The scandal of poverty and inequality. Lecture by Dr Daleep Mukarji
with response by Dr Graham Dalton
|
501 |
| Discussion following lecture | 502 |
Care – not killing: Christian perspectives on the current euthanasia debates
Should terminally ill patients have the right to end their suffering and pain? Should doctors and other health personnel have the right and freedom to assist people seeking euthanasia, as is now the case in some other countries? Do such actions really allow people to ‘die with dignity’? Traditional Christian teaching has always maintained that suicide and assisting other people to die are unacceptable practices. Does the biblical and theological basis for this prohibition still stand? These lectures suggest that it does and that there are practical and theological reasons for maintaining the biblical view. They offer positive alternatives to current assumptions about what it means to ‘die with dignity’ and the implications of this for church and society. (2006)
| Ref | |
| The Christian concern with a good death Dr Brian
Brock |
491 |
| Doctors and assisted dying – risks to human dignity Dr Peter Kiehlmann | 492 |
| Assisted dying – risks to human dignity Dr Calum MacKellar | 493 |
| Discussion | 494 |
The Church and homosexuality today
Martin Hallett is the co-founder and associate director of True Freedom Trust (TfT), a Biblically based charity seeking to help Christians struggling with homosexuality. Martin was happily involved in homosexual relationships before God dramatically changed his lifestyle in 1972. Since then he has learnt a lot about homosexual struggles and freedom in the Christian life, from his own experiences and those of nearly three thousand Christians who have contacted him for help and support. TfT has been operating for over twenty-six years. (2005)
| Ref | |
| The Church and homosexuality today Lecture by Martin Hallett with
response by David
Wright |
481 |
| Response and discussion after lecture ‘The Church and homosexuality today’ | 482 |
The forgotten ‘grandfather’ of Protestant mission: perspectives on globalisation from Jean de Lery
The Protestant missionary movement is usually understood to begin in the eighteenth century with the English Baptist, William Carey, called the ‘father’ of the movement. This overlooks the work of German Protestants which began earlier but it also ignores a remarkable attempt by French Protestants at the time of John Calvin to establish a mission in South America. The translation into English of the classic account of Jean de Lery’s Voyage to the land of Brazil reveals a fascinating story of exploration, cross-cultural experience, and profound theological reflection. This needs to be known, both to set the historical record straight and for the lessons it has for us today from a period that witnessed the beginnings of what is now called ‘globalisation’. (2004)
| Ref | |
| The forgotten ‘grandfather’ of Protestant mission: perspectives
on globalisation from Jean de Lery Lecture by David Smith with response
by Andrew
Walls |
471 |
| Response and discussion after lecture ‘The forgotten ‘grandfather’ of Protestant mission: perspectives on globalisation from Jean de Lery ’ | 472 |
When the Lord walks the land: revival - then and now
What do Christians mean by revival? Can we expect God to produce revival in the Church and significantly affect our contemporary non-Christian society? Is there any biblical teaching to control our thought on the subject? Can historical events be a guide as to what God may do today? This is a controversial topic and yet one of enormous significance for a declining Church in an increasingly non-Christian society. We cannot cover all aspects of the subject and answer all questions, but through talks and discussion we hope this conference tackles some of the main themes and emerges with some practical guidance for a Church that needs spiritual renewal and a greater effectiveness in mission to the community. (2003)
| Ref | |
| When the Lord walks the land: revival - then and nowSet
of three tapes, 461–463 |
460 |
| Revival traditions: their appearance in the 1859 Revival in the North East of Scotland Ken Jeffrey | 461 |
| Revival and the Church today Mike Parker | 462 |
| Closing session, questions and general discussion | 463 |
Postmodernism: swimming against the tide
Dominic Smart
Postmodernism is a major cultural trend which despite defying accurate definition has had a significant impact upon our culture. With its demolition of ‘big story’ explanations (such as religion, politics and economics) postmodernism raises important issues for our understanding and presentation of the Good News of Jesus Christ. What is truth? Does truth exist? If truth only matters to me, how do we respect and understand others? These, and other, questions deserve close scrutiny if we are to develop a discerning and sensitive witness to the Gospel in our day.
Rev Dominic Smart has been minister of Gilcomston South Church of Scotland, Aberdeen, since 1998. A triple graduate of the University of Aberdeen, he spent ten years in his first charge in Dundee. He is the author of the pamphlet Truth and Tolerance (Edinburgh: Rutherford House, 2001) and a book entitled When We Get It Wrong (Paternoster Lifestyle, 2001). In addition to regular conference engagements, Dominic Smart is a part-time lecturer at the Highland Theological Institute in Dingwall. (2003)
| Ref | |
| Postmodernism: swimming against the tide (two-cassette
pack)
|
450 |
| Postmodernism: swimming against the tide (lecture only) Dominic Smart | 451 |
| Response and discussion after lecture ‘Postmodernism: swimming against the tide’ | 452 |
Caring for the earth: a challenge to scientists and Christians
Sir John Houghton
Sir John Houghton CBE FRS is Chairman of the John Ray Initiative which was formed in 1997 with a vision to bring together scientific and Christian understandings of the environment in a way that can be widely communicated and lead to effective action. He was Professor of Atmospheric Physics at the University of Oxford 1976-83, Chief Executive of the Meteorological Office from 1983 to his retirement in 1991 and Chairman of the Royal Commission on Environmental Pollution 1992-98. He was also co-chairman of the Science Assessment Working Group of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change 1988-2002 and a member of the British Government’s Panel on Sustainable Development 1994-2000. (2002)
Sir John has received Gold medals from both the Royal Meteorological Society and the Royal Astronomical Society, the prestigious International Meteorological Organisation Prize and many other awards, including Honorary Doctorates from a number of universities. He is author of ‘Global warming: the complete briefing’ (CUP, 2nd ed 1997) and ‘The search for God: can science help?’ (Lion Publishing, 1994).
Two briefing papers written for the John Ray Institute relate closely to the subject of his lecture to the Aberdeen School of Christian Studies: Global pollution and climate change by Sir John Houghton and The Christian challenge of caring for the earth by Sir John Houghton, and during the question session he mentioned the website of Climate Care.
Other suggested reading: ‘The care of creation’ ed RJ Berry (IVP, 2001); ‘Greenhouse theology’ by Ron Elsdon (Monarch, 1992); ‘The environment and Christian ethics’ by Michael Northcott (CUP, 1996); ‘Guardians of creation’ by Laurence Osborn (Apollos, 1993). See also web sites of IPCC at www.ipcc.ch and John Ray Initiative at www.jri.org.uk (2002)
| Ref | |
| Caring for the earth: a challenge to scientists and Christians Sir
John Houghton
|
441 |
| Questions and discussion after lecture ‘Caring for the earth’ | 442 |
Age matters: Christian perspectives on growing old
The recent debate on funding issues for elderly care in Scotland has focussed particular attention on ageing in our society. Social change – mobility, family, cultural – has tended to marginalise older people. In turn, popular images of the elderly reinforce such perspectives of isolation and vulnerability.
Does the Church mirror such social trends? Or are there important biblical motifs which suggest a different way? This conference seeks to see ageing not in ‘problem’ terms: rather, we wish to examine the process of growing (and being) old as part of human life itself. The two speakers bring considerable professional and pastoral experience to these topics. (2002)
| Ref | |
| Age matters: Christian perspectives on growing oldSet
of three tapes, 431–433 |
430 |
| Old age in society Dr William Primrose | 431 |
| Old age in the church Ernest Chapman | 432 |
| Questions and general discussion | 433 |
Pastoral issues in stress and
depression
These lectures will be of interest to all who are concerned to know more
about a Christian approach to dealing with problems of stress and depression.
It will be of particular value to pastors, social workers and others who
are involved in the pastoral care of people with these problems.
The lecturer is Dr Monty Barker who qualified in medicine at St Andrews University and then specialised in psychiatry. He taught in the Department of Psychiatry at Dundee University before moving to Bristol, where he became a consultant to the United Bristol Hospitals Trust and an honorary lecturer in psychiatry. Soon after qualifying Dr Barker was asked to teach theological students in St Andrews, and this led to many years of teaching in Trinity College, Bristol, and the Evangelical Faculty of Theology in Paris. For the past 13 years he and his wife have spent an increasing part of each year in India, where he teaches pastoral theology and counselling in several theological colleges. His special interest is in the biological, social, familial and spiritual causes of depression. (2001)
| Ref | |
| Pastoral issues in stress and depressionSet
of three tapes, 421–423 |
420 |
| Should Christians get depressed? Dr Monty Barker | 421 |
| Helping the depressed person Dr Monty Barker | 422 |
| Questions and general discussion | 423 |
Christian communication in a multimedia age
This lecture by Dr Peter Short concentrates on practical and appropriate use of multimedia in preaching and the presentation of ‘seeker-sensitive’ events. Dr Short leads ‘Waterfront’, a congregation in Southampton which focuses on being accessible and relevant to non-churched folk and makes substantial use of multimedia presentations. He is also a GP in Southampton, but was brought up in Aberdeen.
The tape includes the lecture on side 1 and the questions and discussion that followed on side 2. For copyright reasons the soundtracks of the audio and video clips used to illustrate the lecture are not included. (2001)
| Ref | |
| Christian communication in a multimedia age: lecture by Peter
Short, and discussion
|
411 |
The genetic revolution:
Christian ethics at the cutting edge
This series addresses some of the major issues arising from developments
in genetic engineering, including GM foods, risk, cloning, gene therapy and
gene patenting. The lecturer is Dr Donald Bruce, scientific Director of the
Society, Religion and Technology Project
of the Church of Scotland. The SRT Project was set up in 1970 to engage Christian
ethics with the changing world of technology, and has examined a wide variety
of subjects. Dr Bruce’s work with SRT has focused especially on
biotechnology issues; he chaired a five-year study on the ethics of genetic
engineering in animals, crops, food and micro-organisms, and he co-edited
the book Engineering Genesis with his wife Ann in 1998. (2000)
The SRT web site is at: http://www.srtp.org.uk. It includes pages on GM food ( http://www.srtp.org.uk/gmfood.shtml ), cloning ( http://www.srtp.org.uk/cloning.shtml ) and patenting ( http://www.srtp.org.uk/scsunpat.shtml ).
| Ref | |
| Lecture: GM foods, risk and nature: what should we be doing with
God’s creation? by Dr Donald Bruce; response by Dr Stanley Ewan
|
401 |
| Questions and discussion | 404 |
| Lecture: Cloning, embryos and stem cells: how far should we be going to treat disease? by Dr Donald Bruce; response by Professor David Short | 402 |
| Lecture: Patents, genes and power: who should control the human genome? by Dr Donald Bruce; response by Andrew McKie | 403 |
| Questions and general discussion | 405 |
From Sinai to Azusa Street:
historical and contemporary perspectives on the Holy
Spirit
These four lectures were linked with the Pentecost 2000 ‘Winds of
change’ programme in Aberdeen which culminated on 11 June. This major
series of events was sponsored by the Regional Ecumenical Team and Aberdeen
City Council. The lecture series was a joint initiative with the Department
of Divinity with Religious Studies, University of Aberdeen, and the Regional
Ecumenical Team.
All the speakers are connected with the Department of Divinity with Religious Studies, University of Aberdeen. William Johnstone is professor of Hebrew Bible, and in recent years has made a special study of the books of Chronicles. He has written a substantial commentary on these books, published by Sheffield Academic Press, as well as notes for the Bible Reading Fellowship. Francis Watson recently became professor of New Testament, having previously taught at King’s College, London. He has a particular interest in the theological interpretation of the New Testament, on which he has written three books, the most recent being Agape, Eros, Gender: Towards a Pauline Sexual Ethic (CUP, 2000). Jeff Jue is a postgraduate student whose doctoral research is in the area of Reformation and post-Reformation History and Theology. He holds a BA from the University of California at Irvine and a Master of Divinity from Westminster Theological Seminary (California). He has also undertaken postgraduate study in the Institute of Reformation History at the University of Geneva. John Drane teaches practical theology, with a focus especially on the relevance of the church to the emerging post-modern culture. He has written extensively on the New Age and contemporary spirituality, and his most recent book is Cultural Change and Biblical Faith (Paternoster Press, 2000). (2000)
| Ref | |
| ‘When God of old came down from heaven’: Pentecost in the Old
Testament William Johnstone
|
391 |
| Questions and discussion after lecture by William Johnstone | 395 |
| The Spirit of Christ Francis Watson | 392 |
| Questions and discussion after lecture by Francis Watson | 396 |
| The Reformers and the Holy Spirit Jeff Jue | 393 |
| Questions and discussion after lecture by Jeff Jue | 397 |
| From Jerusalem and Samaria to the ends of the earth – via Azusa Street John Drane | 394 |
| Questions and discussion after lecture by John Drane | 398 |
Jubilee 2000: an ongoing concern
This conference was intended to be in the nature of a workshop, with lectures
being followed by discussion. The aim was that each participant should be
presented with a range of considerations relevant to determining a Christian
perspective on the proposals put forward on behalf of the Jubilee 2000 Coalition
concerning the relief of debts owed by developing countries. The
Coalition’s members included Christian Aid, Tearfund and other
church-related aid organisations. (1999)
| Ref | |
| The ethics of debt cancellation Nigel Dower Social aspects of the debt crisis Peter McCaffery |
381 |
| Discussion | 384 |
| To forgive, to relieve or to cancel: implementation of Jubilee 2000’s
proposals Robbie Mochrie |
382 |
| Sabbath and jubilee: the biblical contribution to understanding and tackling
the debt crisis Robert Davidson |
383 |
| Response to papers and discussion | 385 |
Word and Spirit
Jesus’ response to a question from the Saducees was ‘You
are in error because you do not know the scriptures or the power of God.’
R T Kendall shows the need for the scriptures and power of God,
Word and Spirit, to come together and be held in equal high importance. If
one is emphasised above the other, there is an imbalance, but if the two
are brought together, expect spontaneous combustion! Dr Kendall’s address
is related to his book The anointing which is recommended additional
reading. This lecture was organised in conjunction with Grampian Evangelical
Fellowship and was delivered in Gilcomston South Church, Aberdeen. (1999)
| Ref | |
| Lecture Word and Spirit by R T Kendall
|
371 |
Christians and the Scottish Parliament: a practical approach
Scotland approached the new millennium with elections to a new Parliament for the first time in almost 300 years. Such a momentous constitutional event gave an opportunity for reflection on the important influences exercised by Scottish churches and Christians on Scotland’s past social, political and cultural history. This raises questions on the relationship between the gospel and Scottish politics and the part Christians have to play in the new political order.
These issues were addressed by Canon Kenyon Wright who as convenor of the Scottish Constitutional Convention played a pivitol role in bringing together representatives of Scotland’s civil institutions (including the churches) to argue the case for devolved government, and also spearheaded a ‘People and Parliament’ consultation exercise. (1999)
| Ref | |
| Lecture by
Canon Kenyon Wright |
361 |
| Questions and discussion | 362 |
Pace of social change, and economic, political and technological developments, are challenging long-established social institutions such as marriage and the family. Is there a clear Christian response to the proliferation of alternative models? Are there clear theological and ethical principles to guide Christians in their thinking and practice in this area? (1998)
| Ref | |
| Marriage and its current crisis Alan
Storkey |
351 |
| Questions and discussion | 354 |
| Problems of parenting Alan Storkey | 352 |
| Care of persons, care of families John Swinton | 353 |
| Questions and discussion | 355 |
Mind before matter: Modern cosmology and the understanding of design
The last thirty years have seen rapid and substantial advances in scientific understanding of the structure and the history of the universe; phrases such as ‘big bang’, ‘black hole’, ‘ripples in the cosmic microwave background’, and ‘inflation’ have entered the popular consciousness if not the popular understanding. On the one hand, some Christians find an account of the universe which seems to have little connection with the Biblical record rather threatening; on the other hand, some physicists are talking about design, about the place of man in the cosmos, and about the ‘mind of God’ with unexpected freedom; the ‘anthropic cosmological principle’ claims to give a central place in understanding of the physical universe to human life.
This lecture explores some of these ideas, and particularly considers the evidence that the material universe is to be seen as the product of mind, as traditional Christian understanding claims, rather than that mind is merely the latest and most remarkable product of a random evolutionary process. (1998)
| Ref | |
| Mind before matter: Modern cosmology and the understanding of design Paul Wraight |
341 |
| Questions and discussion after lecture on modern cosmology | 342 |
Truth, power and love: the influence of four major Scottish Christians
At an important stage in our Scottish national life, this series of lectures looked at four major Scottish Christians: St Columba (521–97); John Knox (1512–72); Samuel Rutherford (1600–61); and Thomas Chalmers (1780–1847). Each made a unique and significant impact on the country in very different eras. The lectures do not undertake detailed biographical or academic studies of any of the four individuals s16 per se s0 , but examine the relationship between the theology and spirituality of men whose primary mission was preaching, but who applied their theology in a practical way to the needs of their age. They ask: what lessons can we learn from studying the lives and national influence of four outstanding Christians who harnessed profound spirituality to a deep intellectual understanding understanding and exposition of their faith? Is the way forward for our nation today to be found in pietism or in a renewed emphasis on theology? What is the relationship between intellectual understanding, spirituality, and the establishment of a ‘Godly commonwealth’?
At an important stage in our Scottish national life, this series of lectures looked at four major Scottish Christians: St Columba, John Knox, Samuel Rutherford and Thomas Chalmers. Each made a unique and significant impact on the country in very different eras. The lectures do not undertake detailed biographical or academic studies of any of the four individuals per se, but examine the relationship between the theology and spirituality of men whose primary mission was preaching, but who applied their theology in a practical way to the needs of their age. They ask: what lessons can we learn from studying the lives and national influence of four outstanding Christians who harnessed profound spirituality to a deep intellectual understanding understanding and exposition of their faith? Is the way forward for our nation today to be found in pietism or in a renewed emphasis on theology? What is the relationship between intellectual understanding, spirituality, and the establishment of a ‘Godly commonwealth’? (1997)
| Ref | |
| Set of eight tapes (331–338) on Truth, power and love: the
influence of four major Scottish Christians |
330 |
| St Columba Alan Macquarrie | 331 |
| Questions and discussion after lecture on St Columba | 335 |
| John Knox David Wright | 332 |
| Questions and discussion after lecture on John Knox | 336 |
| Samuel Rutherford Andrew McGowan | 333 |
| Questions and discussion after lecture on Samuel Rutherford | 337 |
| Thomas Chalmers Donald Macleod | 334 |
| Questions and discussion after lecture on Thomas Chalmers | 338 |
Looking at the Bible in its ancient world
This series deals with what we can learn about the Bible from archeological research into the worlds in which the books of the Old and New Testaments were written. Professor Alan Millard has been closely involved for most of his life in extending his knowledge of the archeology and language of the Bible, and in making this knowledge more accessible. (1997)
| Ref | |
| Set of three tapes (321–323) on Looking at the Bible in its
ancient world
|
320 |
| Writing in the world of the Old Testament Alan Millard | 321 |
| Light from archeology on the Old Testament Alan Millard | 322 |
| Light from archeology on the Gospels Alan Millard | 323 |
The Christian and the mind – issues in psychiatry and faith
For many Christians and churches, psychiatry is a problem area. Dealing with many of the issues which are properly a matter of pastoral care, its methods and models appear sometimes to be opposed to a Christian understanding of human nature. Conversely, some psychiatrists see Christianity as an unhealthy influence, responsible for much mental illness. In the middle of this tension, there are many Christians who are involved in the psychiatric services, as well as Christians who give, or receive, counselling. This lecture series has insights from four Christian practitioners and explores a number of key issues from a biblical perspective. (1996)
| Ref | |
| Set of 8 tapes (311–318) on The Christian and the
mind
|
310 |
| Mental health and faith William Campbell | 311 |
| Discussion following William Campbell’s lecture | 315 |
| Psychological therapies Roger Baker | 312 |
| Discussion following Roger Baker’s lecture | 316 |
| Dealing with depression James Finlayson | 313 |
| Discussion following James Finlayson’s lecture | 317 |
| What does it mean to be human? Andrew Sims | 314 |
| Discussion following Andrew Sims’ lecture | 318 |
Brave new world: moral dilemmas in modern medicine
(1996)
| Ref | |
| Set of eight tapes (301–308) on Moral dilemmas in modern medicine
|
300 |
| A biblical perspective on our humanness Elaine Storkey | 301 |
| The key issues for medicine and ethics John Wyatt | 302 |
| Problems associated with advances in genetics Sheila Simpson | 304 |
| Issues raised by technical advances in intensive care for babies, children
and adults John Wyatt |
305 |
| Legal issues arising from recent medical advances Jean McHale | 306 |
| Resource allocation in modern health service, and associated moral and
ethical issues Tim Brett |
307 |
| Plenary open discussion (before final lecture on Tape 303) | 308 |
| Directions in our society Elaine Storkey | 303 |
Effective evangelism for the new century
Some of the changes in our society have profound implications for evangelism. The consequences of progression from modernity and post-modernity for evangelism are discussed by lecturer John Drane, and the usefulness of traditional methods of evangelism is re-examined. The ideas presented, some quite radical, need to be worked through and participated in, not just talked about. (1996)
| Ref | |
| Set of four tapes (291–294) on effective evangelism for the new
century
|
290 |
| Cultural change and the evangelistic task John Drane | 291 |
| Response to questions and Sharing the faith in today’s world John Drane | 292 |
| Redefining evangelism John Drane | 293 |
| Discussion following session Redefining evangelism | 294 |
From decline to growth (church growth)
Martin Robinson, Director (Mission and Theology) with the British and Foreigh Bible Society, speaks on church growth against a background of general decline in church attendance, yet significant growth in some areas. The lecture was organised in association with the British Church Growth Association. (1995)
| Ref | |
| Set of two tapes (lecture and discussion) on Church
growth |
280 |
| From decline to growth Martin Robinson | 281 |
| Discussion following lecture From decline to growth | 282 |
The Great Omission – is the age of Western missionaries past?
Rosemary Dowsett examines the missionary concept and its relevance today in the light of scripture, history and contemporary experience. Mrs Dowsett is a lecturer at the Glasgow Bible College, having previously worked with the Overseas Missionary Fellowship in the Philippines with her husband Dick. (1995)
| Ref | |
| Set of two tapes (lecture and discussion) on Western
missionaries |
270 |
| The Great Omission Rosemary Dowsett | 271 |
| Discussion following lecture The Great Omission | 272 |
Elaine Storkey, Director of Christian Impact (the Institute for Contemporary Christianity), interviewed by Will Storrar of the Department of Divinity with Religious Studies, University of Aberdeen. The conversation touches on various aspects of Christian faith and contemporary culture. (1995)
| Faith in our time Elaine Storkey interviewed by
Will
Storrar |
262 |
Training for Christian service
Information on the opportunities and benefits of the kind of training that a Bible College provides. This should be of help to potential students and also leaders who may be called on to advise those in their congregations who are considering training. The two speakers are Martin Goldsmith, formerly of All Nations Bible College, and David Smith, Principal of Northumbria Bible College. (1995)
| Training for Christian service Martin Goldsmith
and David
Smith |
261 |
Conversations on science and faith
Professor Derek Burke, Vice Chancellor of the University of East Anglia, in conversation with Dr Paul Wraight discussing some of the areas where scientific and Christian beliefs interact. (1995)
| Conversations on science and faith Derek
Burke |
259 |
In the beginning: biblical and scientific accounts of origins
A look at current scientific views on the origins of the universe, of the earth and its surface, and of the human race, an an examination of the question of whether we can take both the bible and science seriously in their accounts of origins, or whether we have to reject one in order to accept the other. (1995)
| Set of eight tapes (251–258) on Biblical and scientific
accounts of
origins |
250 |
| And God created...Adam and Eve R J (Sam) Berry | 251 |
| The big bang and the history of the cosmos David Wilkinson | 252 |
| Geology and the history of life R S (Bob) White | 253 |
| The Genesis account of creation and its interpretation Ernest Lucas | 254 |
| Discussion following R J Berry's lecture | 255 |
| Discussion following David Wilkinson's lecture | 256 |
| Discussion following R S White's lecture | 257 |
| Discussion following Ernest Lucas's lecture | 258
|
There has been increasing interest in the subject of business ethics over recent years. These lectures contribute to our understanding of the Christian’s role in business and are of relevance to all who contend with leadership and management issues in a business context. (1994)
| Set of 5 tapes (241–245) on Business
ethics |
240 |
| The challenge to effect change Sir Frederick Catherwood and Faith in business Richard Higginson | 241 |
| The complementary arts of management and leadership Richard Higginson | 242 |
| Leading with integrity Richard Higginson | 243 |
| Managing the dynamics of change Richard Higginson | 244 |
| Learning from failure as well as success Richard Higginson | 245 |
The importance of such factors as language, geography, national institutions (legal, social, political and eccelesiastical) and church history in determining our Christian identity and character. The text of these lectures has been published in the Scottish Bulletin of Evangelical Theology where it is available online. (1994)
| Set of 6 tapes (231–236) on Scotland: Gospel and
culture |
230 |
| Scottish cultural influences on evangelicalism David Bebbington | 231 |
| Gaelic and the gospel: Christianity and culture in the Scottish Highlands since 1560 Donald Meek | 232 |
| Creative tensions: personal reflections of an evangelical Christian and Gaelic poet Fearghas MacFhionnlaigh | 233 |
| The gospel and Scottish literature Beth Dickson | 234 |
| Discussion and book recommendations after Scotland: Gospel and culture session 1 | 235 |
| Closing discussion to Scotland: Gospel and culture | 236 |
The complexities and challenges of the modern world in which Christians have to work out their faith make expository preaching more rather than less necessary. (1994)
| Set of 6 tapes (221–226) on Preaching the
Word |
220 |
| Preaching with power R T Kendall | 221 |
| Expository preaching R T Kendall | 222 |
| From text to sermon David Searle | 223 |
| Response and discussion after Preaching with power | 224 |
| Response and discussion after Expository preaching | 225 |
| Response and discussion after From text to sermon | 226 |
Christian reflections on feminism
The wider subject of feminism, covering much more ground than the ordination and ministry of women. The changing and developing images of women as seen by themselves and by men, and Biblical teaching on aspects of the role and dignity of women. Lectures by Elaine Storkey. (1993)
| Set of 6 tapes (211–216) on Christian reflections
on
feminism |
210 |
| Women in the modern world Elaine Storkey | 211 |
| Biblical teaching on the role of women Elaine Storkey | 212 |
| The role and image of women in the church today Elaine Storkey | 213 |
| Discussion 1, after Women in the modern world | 214 |
| Discussion 2, after Biblical teaching on the role of women | 215 |
| Discussion 3, after The role and image of women in the church today | 216 |
Care in the community: a Christian response
A look at the purpose and implications of new legislation on care in the community introduced on 1 April 1993, and the practical responses that are possible for individuals and churches. Organised in conjunction with Gerrard Street Baptist Church, Aberdeen, and Social Workers Christian Fellowship. (1993)
| Set of 3 tapes (201-203) on Care in the community: a
Christian
response |
200 |
| The responsibilities and issues facing the local authority Archie Robb | 201 |
| The needs of individuals and caring in a relevant way Fran Beckett | 202 |
| Local initiatives and discussion | 203 |
Christianity in multi-faith Britain
Colin Chapman speaks on the multi-faith issue which is increasingly central in discussion among Christians in Britain. In some parts, faiths other than Christianity are stronger numerically and growing faster than the Christian Church. Religious education now often concentrates more on other religions than on Christianity. (1993)
| Set of 6 tapes (191-196) on Multi-faith Britain and
Understanding
Islam |
190 |
| Understanding. The facts of a religiously plural society and the unique claims of Christianity Colin Chapman | 191 |
| Responding. Is evangelism justified and to what extent can we associate with other faiths? Colin Chapman | 192 |
| Discussion 1, after The facts of a religiously plural society... | 193 |
| Discussion 2, after Is evangelism justified and to what extent...? | 194 |
| Understanding Islam 1 - a brief guide , basic duties and the Qur'an Colin Chapman | 195 |
| Understanding Islam 2 - where we agree and where and why we differ Colin Chapman | 196 |
An examination by Lesslie Newbiggin of the problems of communicating the gospel to our modern scientific society. (1993)
| Set of 2 tapes (181-182) on Can the West be
converted? |
180 |
| Can the West be converted? Lesslie Newbiggin | 181 |
| Invited response to lecture Can the West be converted, and open discussion | 182 |
Greens, Gaia and God: Christianity and environmental ethics
Environmental problems have frequently been blamed on Judaeo–Christian teaching about human dominion over nature. Professor R J (Sam) Berry examines the Biblical foundation for thinking and action in this area and makes theological and scientific comment on James Lovelock’s ‘Gaia’ hypothesis which motivates and guides much environmental thinking and action. He also looks at how we can face up to practical and political decisions in terms of worldwide policy and personal lifestyle. (1992)
| Set of 6 tapes (171-176) on Greens, Gaia and God
(environmental
ethics) |
170 |
| Pollution, population and Protestantism R J Berry | 171 |
| Saving the world R J Berry | 172 |
| World conservation strategies and beyond R J Berry | 173 |
| Discussion 1, following Pollution, population and Protestantism | 174 |
| Discussion 2, following Saving the world | 175 |
| Discussion 3, following World conservation strategies and beyond | 176 |
The right to die? A discussion on the termination of life
Practical and theological reflections on whether doctors should be allowed to accede to the request of a patient to shorten life in order to relieve suffering. (1992)
| Set of 2 tapes (161-162) on The right to die: a discussion
on the termination of
life |
160 |
| Practical and theological perspectives John Berkeley, William Primrose, William Storrar | 161 |
| Invited response and open discussion after Practical and theological perspectives | 162 |
Kingdom come (evangelism)
A fresh examination of the nature and practice of evangelism in the church. Is there a deeper and wider view of the nature of evangelism than many hold, considering the implications of what it means to be initiated into the kingdom of God? It is important to consider fresh ideas in the context of existing convictions and detailed knowledge of the Scottish scene. (1992)
| Set of 4 tapes (151-154) on
Evangelism |
150 |
| The nature of evangelism William Abraham | 151 |
| Discussion on The nature of evangelism | 152 |
| The practice of evangelism Michael Frew | 153 |
| Discussion on The practice of evangelism | 154 |
The power of love and the love of power: issues facing charismatic Christianity
Charismatic Christianity, like any other form of Christianity, has to be judged in the light of the historic gospel. Questions have been raised about the authenticity and efficacy of charismatic Christianity—the relationship of the charismatic dimension to the Christian centre in the cross; John Wimber’s signs and wonders and the Kansas City prophets; and contemporary charismatic attitudes towards the devil and the demonic world. From a conference organised in association with the C S Lewis Centre for the study of religion and modernity. (1992)
| Three spiritual journeys (introduction) Tom Smail, Andrew
Walker, Nigel
Wright |
141 |
| The Spirit and the cross - towards a theology of renewal Tom Smail | 142 |
| The theology and methodology of signs and wonders Nigel Wright | 143 |
| The devil you think you know Andrew Walker | 144 |
| Discussion 1 (following 141,142,143) | 145 |
| Discussion 2 (following 144) | 146 |
| Set of 4 lecture tapes (141-144) on Issues facing charismatic Christianity | 147 |
| Set of 2 discussion tapes (145-146) on Issues facing charismatic Christianity | 148 |
| Complete set of 6 tapes (141-146) on Issues facing charismatic Christianity | 149 |
Taking scripture seriously as our supreme authority does not remove the challenge of discovering how to interpret that scripture. (1991)
| Set of 4 tapes (131-134) on Interpreting the
Bible |
130 |
| Understanding scripture in its original setting John Drane | 131 |
| Types of literature in the Bible Richard Bauckham | 132 |
| Understanding scripture in our own setting John Drane | 133 |
| Applying scripture to modern issues Richard Bauckham | 134 |
Human sexual ethics is an area where previously accepted standards, which were broadly Christian, are now widely rejected. Many of the complex issues on which decisions are required in our society are approached on the basis of views of human nature and existence which are radically different from traditional Christian understanding. Christians need to think clearly about such issues and to apply Biblically based principles in increasingly complex situations. (1991)
| Set of 4 tapes (121-124) on Sex and
ethics |
120 |
| How do we decide? Justifying ethical stances Trevor Hart | 121 |
| Maximising marriage: relations between men and women Tim Dearborn | 122 |
| Till death do us part? Divorce and remarriage Gordon Wenham | 123 |
| Between consenting adults? Homosexual relationships David Wright | 124 |
The marks, mission and ministry of an effective local church
The local church is called to be a community of God’s people in the wider community. God’s truth needs to be effectively communicated to Christians so that they might challenge contemporary society rather than merely conform or compromise with it. (1990)
| Set of 6 tapes (111-116) on The effective local church | 117 |
| Worship Alistair
Brown |
111 |
| Evangelism Mary Morrison | 112 |
| Community Robert Shimwell | 113 |
| Confrontation Clive Calver | 114 |
| Teaching Donald Macleod | 115 |
| Service David Tomlinson | 116 |
Social issues facing Christians today
God calls us to live under His Word in the world. Authentic Christian discipleship needs to develop a heart, spirit, worship, conscience, ethic and lifestyle, each of which will often come into collision with the mood, opinion and standards of society. (1989)
| Set of 10 tapes (101-110) on Social issues facing Christians
today |
100 |
| Involvement - is it our concern? Martyn Eden | 101 |
| Thinking Christianly on current issues Ernest Lucas | 102 |
| Acting Christianly on current issues Martyn Eden | 103 |
| Thinking Biblically about scientific issues Ernest Lucas | 104 |
| Christianity and secularisation David Smith | 105 |
| Concern for the poor - a Biblical priority? John Drane | 106 |
| Our global responsibility - a Biblical perspective Chris Wigglesworth | 107 |
| Meeting need in the city - evangelism and social action Patrick Sookhdeo | 108 |
| Urban need and opportunity in Scotland Malcolm Cuthbertson | 109 |
| Freedom, stewardship and welfare Brian Griffiths | 110 |
Created: 7 September 1997
Last modified: 15 December 2008
Author: John
MacCormack