English L'Abri

<![CDATA[English L'Abri]]><![CDATA[Lectures old and new from workers and guest lecturers at English L'Abri, a residential study center and community open to guests seeking a welcoming place to ask life’s many questions. For more information, visit englishlabri.org]]>English L'AbriAnchor PodcastsThu, 21 Jan 2021 14:10:00 GMT<![CDATA[L'Abri Fellowship]]><![CDATA[L'Abri Fellowship]]><![CDATA[en-us]]>L'Abri Fellowship

Lectures old and new from workers and guest lecturers at English L'Abri, a residential study center and community open to guests seeking a welcoming place to ask life’s many questions. For more information, visit englishlabri.org

episodicL'Abri FellowshipNo<![CDATA[The Duty to Be Curious (Ben Keyes)]]><![CDATA[Curiosity is a quality that most children seem to possess. It is this hunger to know and understand that spurs on their many questions. While some people remain curious into adulthood, for many of us it does not come as naturally as when we were young. Neither do many Christian people consider curiosity to be significant to the life of faith. What are some ways in which being genuinely curious can aid us as we live under Christ's lordship? Is there any hope for the jaded among us to grow in curiosity? For more lectures, visit the L'Abri Ideas Library at labriideaslibrary.org. The library contains over one thousand lectures and discussions which explore questions about the reality and relevance of Christianity. We ask you to respect the copyright for this audio file which belongs to L’Abri Fellowship. Please note that views expressed in the lecture and discussion times do not necessarily represent the views of L’Abri Fellowship. ]]><![CDATA[L'Abri Fellowship]]>Sun, 08 Nov 2020 20:05:19 GMT

Curiosity is a quality that most children seem to possess. It is this hunger to know and understand that spurs on their many questions. While some people remain curious into adulthood, for many of us it does not come as naturally as when we were young. Neither do many Christian people consider curiosity to be significant to the life of faith. What are some ways in which being genuinely curious can aid us as we live under Christ's lordship? Is there any hope for the jaded among us to grow in curiosity? For more lectures, visit the L'Abri Ideas Library at labriideaslibrary.org. The library contains over one thousand lectures and discussions which explore questions about the reality and relevance of Christianity. We ask you to respect the copyright for this audio file which belongs to L’Abri Fellowship. Please note that views expressed in the lecture and discussion times do not necessarily represent the views of L’Abri Fellowship.

No7151<![CDATA[‘Plato, the Professor and the Real Narnia': Exploring the Relationship of Heaven and Earth in CS Lewis’ Narnia Chronicles. (Jim Paul)]]><![CDATA[In ’The Last Battle’, the final book in CS Lewis’ Chronicles of Narnia, the children witness the end of Narnia before walking through a door between worlds into a land of "warm daylight' and "blue sky, with flowers at their feet”. They eventually come to see that this ’new’ land is the real Narnia, “which has always been here and always will be”, and that the old Narnia was only its shadow or copy. Digory Kirke (the Professor in ‘The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe’) comments by way of explanation that “It’s all in Plato, all in Plato." What did Lewis mean by this and how does Plato help us understand the relationship of creation to new creation? For more lectures, visit the L'Abri Ideas Library at labriideaslibrary.org. The library contains over one thousand lectures and discussions which explore questions about the reality and relevance of Christianity. We ask you to respect the copyright for this audio file which belongs to L’Abri Fellowship. Please note that views expressed in the lecture and discussion times do not necessarily represent the views of L’Abri Fellowship. ]]><![CDATA[L'Abri Fellowship]]>Sat, 24 Oct 2020 15:46:58 GMT

In ’The Last Battle’, the final book in CS Lewis’ Chronicles of Narnia, the children witness the end of Narnia before walking through a door between worlds into a land of "warm daylight' and "blue sky, with flowers at their feet”. They eventually come to see that this ’new’ land is the real Narnia, “which has always been here and always will be”, and that the old Narnia was only its shadow or copy. Digory Kirke (the Professor in ‘The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe’) comments by way of explanation that “It’s all in Plato, all in Plato." What did Lewis mean by this and how does Plato help us understand the relationship of creation to new creation? For more lectures, visit the L'Abri Ideas Library at labriideaslibrary.org. The library contains over one thousand lectures and discussions which explore questions about the reality and relevance of Christianity. We ask you to respect the copyright for this audio file which belongs to L’Abri Fellowship. Please note that views expressed in the lecture and discussion times do not necessarily represent the views of L’Abri Fellowship.

No5984<![CDATA[Mapping Reality (Marsh Moyle and Josue Reichow)]]><![CDATA[What is a Map? How does it work and what does it do? In a general way, maps help us to orient ourselves. As we talk about this broad category such as reality, is it even possible to map it? This panel will explore the way we engage, think and represent the world around us, reflecting on the different sources we use to make sense of everything that is around us. For more lectures, visit the L'Abri Ideas Library at labriideaslibrary.org. The library contains over one thousand lectures and discussions which explore questions about the reality and relevance of Christianity. We ask you to respect the copyright for this audio file which belongs to L’Abri Fellowship. Please note that views expressed in the lecture and discussion times do not necessarily represent the views of L’Abri Fellowship. ]]><![CDATA[L'Abri Fellowship]]>Sat, 17 Oct 2020 15:32:37 GMT

What is a Map? How does it work and what does it do? In a general way, maps help us to orient ourselves. As we talk about this broad category such as reality, is it even possible to map it? This panel will explore the way we engage, think and represent the world around us, reflecting on the different sources we use to make sense of everything that is around us. For more lectures, visit the L'Abri Ideas Library at labriideaslibrary.org. The library contains over one thousand lectures and discussions which explore questions about the reality and relevance of Christianity. We ask you to respect the copyright for this audio file which belongs to L’Abri Fellowship. Please note that views expressed in the lecture and discussion times do not necessarily represent the views of L’Abri Fellowship.

No5886<![CDATA[The Birth of the Social Sciences and the Human Search for Meaning (Josue Reichow)]]><![CDATA[The Social Sciences have become central in the way people think about our times and the issues of the day. Its constitution and origin as a science need to be understood if we are to reflect on the roots of the contemporary social movements. Besides, as we go deeper into its roots we may come to a clearer perspective on how meaning is framed within the modern times. So, this lecture will explore its history and impact on ideas and its consequences for the way we experience reality. For more lectures, visit the L'Abri Ideas Library at labriideaslibrary.org. The library contains over one thousand lectures and discussions which explore questions about the reality and relevance of Christianity. We ask you to respect the copyright for this audio file which belongs to L’Abri Fellowship. Please note that views expressed in the lecture and discussion times do not necessarily represent the views of L’Abri Fellowship. ]]><![CDATA[L'Abri Fellowship]]>Sat, 10 Oct 2020 13:25:59 GMT

The Social Sciences have become central in the way people think about our times and the issues of the day. Its constitution and origin as a science need to be understood if we are to reflect on the roots of the contemporary social movements. Besides, as we go deeper into its roots we may come to a clearer perspective on how meaning is framed within the modern times. So, this lecture will explore its history and impact on ideas and its consequences for the way we experience reality. For more lectures, visit the L'Abri Ideas Library at labriideaslibrary.org. The library contains over one thousand lectures and discussions which explore questions about the reality and relevance of Christianity. We ask you to respect the copyright for this audio file which belongs to L’Abri Fellowship. Please note that views expressed in the lecture and discussion times do not necessarily represent the views of L’Abri Fellowship.

No6638<![CDATA[Toward a More Grateful Life (Tom Smiley)]]><![CDATA[In the last 20 years the world seems to have rediscovered the concept of gratitude, and found to its surprise that it is strongly related to health and well-being.We will look at the science that has explored this, including a quick assessment of our own gratitude levels, and consider the overlap with the age-old Christian understanding of the concept, which emphasises seeing ourselves as receivers of gifts. How can we employ gratitude in every possible way in our lives? Tom Smiley, Psychologist ]]><![CDATA[L'Abri Fellowship]]>Sat, 07 Mar 2020 09:33:36 GMT

In the last 20 years the world seems to have rediscovered the concept of gratitude, and found to its surprise that it is strongly related to health and well-being.We will look at the science that has explored this, including a quick assessment of our own gratitude levels, and consider the overlap with the age-old Christian understanding of the concept, which emphasises seeing ourselves as receivers of gifts. How can we employ gratitude in every possible way in our lives? Tom Smiley, Psychologist

No4097<![CDATA[Freedom and Limitations: Humans in the Created Order (Gavin McGrath)]]><![CDATA[What is genuine human flourishing and how do we come close to experiencing such? Chiefly drawing upon Scripture but with secondary insights from Augustine, Luther, Calvin, Wendell Berry, and James K.A. Smith, this lecture may point us in the right direction. Gavin McGrath, Associate Rector at St Nicholas Church, Sevenoaks ]]><![CDATA[L'Abri Fellowship]]>Sat, 29 Feb 2020 10:10:56 GMT

What is genuine human flourishing and how do we come close to experiencing such? Chiefly drawing upon Scripture but with secondary insights from Augustine, Luther, Calvin, Wendell Berry, and James K.A. Smith, this lecture may point us in the right direction. Gavin McGrath, Associate Rector at St Nicholas Church, Sevenoaks

No4324<![CDATA[Is Sin Plausible in the Modern World? (Andrew Fellows)]]><![CDATA[Christians don’t have the monopoly on seeing what’s wrong with the world. This talk examines three secular sin labels as a diagnosis of the problem. Each adds something significant to our understanding of why everything is so bent out of shape. While each of these labels are useful they are inadequate to the Bible's better diagnosis. -Andrew Fellows, Director of Christian Heritage Cambridge ]]><![CDATA[L'Abri Fellowship]]>Sat, 15 Feb 2020 12:09:27 GMT

Christians don’t have the monopoly on seeing what’s wrong with the world. This talk examines three secular sin labels as a diagnosis of the problem. Each adds something significant to our understanding of why everything is so bent out of shape. While each of these labels are useful they are inadequate to the Bible's better diagnosis. -Andrew Fellows, Director of Christian Heritage Cambridge

No5131<![CDATA[Resilience—Keeping the Spring In Your Step (Edith Reitsema)]]><![CDATA[What is resilience? Why is everybody on about it today? In our search for hope and meaning, we will also look at the art of G.F.Watts. ]]><![CDATA[L'Abri Fellowship]]>Sat, 08 Feb 2020 09:39:33 GMT

What is resilience? Why is everybody on about it today? In our search for hope and meaning, we will also look at the art of G.F.Watts.

No2580<![CDATA[Intelligent Design for Idiots (Barry Seagren)]]><![CDATA[An introduction to the background and the claims of the Intelligent Design movement. ]]><![CDATA[L'Abri Fellowship]]>Sat, 01 Feb 2020 10:01:22 GMT

An introduction to the background and the claims of the Intelligent Design movement.

No5492<![CDATA[Exploring ‘Subject-Object Relational Reality’ (Jim Paul)]]><![CDATA[This lecture will explore the relationship of subjective experience to the objective world around us. Jim will be using C.S. Lewis’ argument in the first chapter of “The Abolition of Man” to develop the idea that reality is found in the relationship between subject and object. Jim Paul, L’Abri Worker ]]><![CDATA[L'Abri Fellowship]]>Sat, 18 Jan 2020 09:51:19 GMT

This lecture will explore the relationship of subjective experience to the objective world around us. Jim will be using C.S. Lewis’ argument in the first chapter of “The Abolition of Man” to develop the idea that reality is found in the relationship between subject and object. Jim Paul, L’Abri Worker

No4705<![CDATA[Responsing in Faith to a Hostile World (Stuart Parker)]]><![CDATA[Whereas Christianity once shaped the values of our culture, the historical Christian view on matters of personal choice (such as sexual morality and the value of human life) is now increasingly seen as fundamentalist and immoral. Do we look to this future with fear or excitement? Should Christians react with compromise, withdrawal, silence or assertiveness? We will review these options and look at how biblical characters responded to opposition and how we can respond to the challenge. ]]><![CDATA[L'Abri Fellowship]]>Sun, 24 Nov 2019 12:08:22 GMT

Whereas Christianity once shaped the values of our culture, the historical Christian view on matters of personal choice (such as sexual morality and the value of human life) is now increasingly seen as fundamentalist and immoral. Do we look to this future with fear or excitement? Should Christians react with compromise, withdrawal, silence or assertiveness? We will review these options and look at how biblical characters responded to opposition and how we can respond to the challenge.

No5199<![CDATA[The Companionship of Shostakovich: Why The Music Of An Atheist Member Of The Soviet Union’s Communist Party Should Matter To A Christian Believer (Mark Meynell)]]><![CDATA[Dmitri Shostakovich is arguably the greatest composer of the 20th century. There is not a musical form he couldn’t write for. But his brilliance made him an easy target in Stalin’s Soviet Union, especially when ruled by a dictator who fancied himself an aesthete. His lifelong battle was to preserve his artistic integrity at the same time as avoiding the gulag and execution. Amid intolerable suffering, he somehow composed some of the most powerful and sublime comforts for others who suffer. ]]><![CDATA[L'Abri Fellowship]]>Sat, 23 Nov 2019 09:41:46 GMT

Dmitri Shostakovich is arguably the greatest composer of the 20th century. There is not a musical form he couldn’t write for. But his brilliance made him an easy target in Stalin’s Soviet Union, especially when ruled by a dictator who fancied himself an aesthete. His lifelong battle was to preserve his artistic integrity at the same time as avoiding the gulag and execution. Amid intolerable suffering, he somehow composed some of the most powerful and sublime comforts for others who suffer.

No6026<![CDATA[The Darkness Is As Light To You: An Evening With Stephen King (Andy Patton)]]><![CDATA[Stephen King has written 61 novels, has won numerous literary awards, has had more film adaptations made of his work than any living author, and has been called the “Master of Horror”. If a task of the Christian is to seek and treasure God’s goodness, truth, and beauty wherever they are found, how should Christians interact with King’s work and with the horror genre in general? This lecture will explore King’s oeuvre, his life, and why our culture is so fascinated with the products of his strange and delightful imagination. ]]><![CDATA[L'Abri Fellowship]]>Fri, 15 Nov 2019 08:58:54 GMT

Stephen King has written 61 novels, has won numerous literary awards, has had more film adaptations made of his work than any living author, and has been called the “Master of Horror”. If a task of the Christian is to seek and treasure God’s goodness, truth, and beauty wherever they are found, how should Christians interact with King’s work and with the horror genre in general? This lecture will explore King’s oeuvre, his life, and why our culture is so fascinated with the products of his strange and delightful imagination.

No5626<![CDATA[Stalking Joy: Three Priests In Search Of God (Andrew Jones)]]><![CDATA[This lecture will explore the nature of faith in Christ as expressed by three clergy in three recent TV shows, Rev, Broken and Fleabag. We’ll reflect on doubt, brokenness and the erotic as experiences in which we might know God. ]]><![CDATA[L'Abri Fellowship]]>Fri, 15 Nov 2019 08:44:13 GMT

This lecture will explore the nature of faith in Christ as expressed by three clergy in three recent TV shows, Rev, Broken and Fleabag. We’ll reflect on doubt, brokenness and the erotic as experiences in which we might know God.

No5162<![CDATA[Is God A Populist? Identity, Politics And The Christian (Henk Reitsema)]]><![CDATA[Populism has brought a special kind of confusion for Christians, especially as Christian values can be part of the rhetoric of populism. Which loyalties, if any, should Christians feel in all of this? How should Christians respond to their cultural moment while remaining rooted in the reality of their identities in God? Henk Reitsema, L’Abri Worker – The Netherlands ]]><![CDATA[L'Abri Fellowship]]>Sat, 26 Oct 2019 08:07:09 GMT

Populism has brought a special kind of confusion for Christians, especially as Christian values can be part of the rhetoric of populism. Which loyalties, if any, should Christians feel in all of this? How should Christians respond to their cultural moment while remaining rooted in the reality of their identities in God? Henk Reitsema, L’Abri Worker – The Netherlands

No5492<![CDATA[Power and the Kingdom of God: A Study of Matthew 1-4 (Marsh Moyle)]]><![CDATA[What is power and why is it important? Is there such a thing as good power? We will look at the accounts in the first section of Matthew's Gospel for examples of power and subversion to see what Jesus makes of it all. See the slides here: ]]><![CDATA[L'Abri Fellowship]]>Sat, 19 Oct 2019 09:30:30 GMT

What is power and why is it important? Is there such a thing as good power? We will look at the accounts in the first section of Matthew's Gospel for examples of power and subversion to see what Jesus makes of it all. See the slides here:

No4948<![CDATA[Reading Jordan Peterson’s 12 Rules for Life - Part 2 (Josue Reichow)]]><![CDATA[Figure of fame and controversy, Jordan Peterson is loved and hated with the same intensity for the polarizing views he expresses. In this lecture, we will continue the discussion of his rules for life, looking at their philosophical and theological framework trying to understand what he is saying and why it’s been so influential and try to offer a Christian response to some of the ideas he’s developed. ]]><![CDATA[L'Abri Fellowship]]>Sat, 05 Oct 2019 08:16:56 GMT

Figure of fame and controversy, Jordan Peterson is loved and hated with the same intensity for the polarizing views he expresses. In this lecture, we will continue the discussion of his rules for life, looking at their philosophical and theological framework trying to understand what he is saying and why it’s been so influential and try to offer a Christian response to some of the ideas he’s developed.

No5949<![CDATA[Good Expectations: Encountering Disappointment And Risking Goodness (Joel Barricklow)]]><![CDATA[Every disappointment is an expectation revealed. Should we get rid of them altogether or can we expect good things in a broken world? We’ll work towards a recipe for healthy, realistic and resilient expectations that aim for the good life while taking into account our often painful and disappointing reality. ]]><![CDATA[L'Abri Fellowship]]>Sat, 28 Sep 2019 09:09:39 GMT

Every disappointment is an expectation revealed. Should we get rid of them altogether or can we expect good things in a broken world? We’ll work towards a recipe for healthy, realistic and resilient expectations that aim for the good life while taking into account our often painful and disappointing reality.

No5482<![CDATA[I Feel, Therefore I Am (Jim Paul)]]><![CDATA[We are undergoing an ‘affective revolution’ in which our feelings define reality. This is driving much of the current debates around gender, but it also affects many other areas of our lives. What is the status of statements of our feelings in relationship to truth and reality outside of ourselves? ]]><![CDATA[L'Abri Fellowship]]>Sat, 21 Sep 2019 13:23:40 GMT

We are undergoing an ‘affective revolution’ in which our feelings define reality. This is driving much of the current debates around gender, but it also affects many other areas of our lives. What is the status of statements of our feelings in relationship to truth and reality outside of ourselves?

No5151<![CDATA[Where Do They All Belong? A Reflection On Loneliness (Lili Reichow)]]><![CDATA[Made to be in relationship with the Creator and with others, humans are meant to share life. The reality of loneliness in contemporary society is keeping many from this essential aspect of life. In this lecture, we will discuss the reasons for the rise of loneliness, its effects on individuals and communities and how can we respond to the challenge. ]]><![CDATA[L'Abri Fellowship]]>Sat, 27 Jul 2019 10:59:48 GMT

Made to be in relationship with the Creator and with others, humans are meant to share life. The reality of loneliness in contemporary society is keeping many from this essential aspect of life. In this lecture, we will discuss the reasons for the rise of loneliness, its effects on individuals and communities and how can we respond to the challenge.

No5920<![CDATA[Tolkien’s Table Motif and the Importance of Positive Cultural Liturgies (Arthur Hunt)]]><![CDATA[This lecture addresses the significance of J. R. R. Tolkien’s table motif as not only a time to enjoy the feast but also an opportunity to replenish the soul. In both The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings the sharing of meals are episodes of wonder, hospitality, and renewal in contrast to the travail and despair of the road. Furthermore, Tolkien’s table motif signals the importance of establishing positive cultural liturgies in our age of distraction. -Arthur W. Hunt III, Professor of Communications at The University of Tennessee at Martin ]]><![CDATA[L'Abri Fellowship]]>Sat, 20 Jul 2019 09:40:39 GMT

This lecture addresses the significance of J. R. R. Tolkien’s table motif as not only a time to enjoy the feast but also an opportunity to replenish the soul. In both The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings the sharing of meals are episodes of wonder, hospitality, and renewal in contrast to the travail and despair of the road. Furthermore, Tolkien’s table motif signals the importance of establishing positive cultural liturgies in our age of distraction. -Arthur W. Hunt III, Professor of Communications at The University of Tennessee at Martin

No4740<![CDATA[Edvard Munch's 'The Scream': A Cry That Echoes Through Creation (Nigel Halliday)]]><![CDATA[Why is Munch’s iconic image still so popular today? Why does it resonate so powerfully with us? Some reflections on the work of Edvard Munch and the current exhibition at the British Museum. ]]><![CDATA[L'Abri Fellowship]]>Sat, 20 Jul 2019 09:26:57 GMT

Why is Munch’s iconic image still so popular today? Why does it resonate so powerfully with us? Some reflections on the work of Edvard Munch and the current exhibition at the British Museum.

No5075<![CDATA[Reading Jordan Peterson's 12 Rules For Life - Part 1 (Josue Reichow)]]><![CDATA[Figure of fame and controversy, Jordan Peterson is loved and hated with the same intensity for the polarizing views he expresses. In this lecture, we will discuss the first six rules of his most famous book, looking at their philosophical and theological framework trying to understand what he is saying and why it’s been so influential and try to offer a Christian response to some of the ideas he’s developed. ]]><![CDATA[L'Abri Fellowship]]>Wed, 03 Jul 2019 15:21:31 GMT

Figure of fame and controversy, Jordan Peterson is loved and hated with the same intensity for the polarizing views he expresses. In this lecture, we will discuss the first six rules of his most famous book, looking at their philosophical and theological framework trying to understand what he is saying and why it’s been so influential and try to offer a Christian response to some of the ideas he’s developed.

No5621<![CDATA[The Art of Looking for Beauty (Edith Reitsema)]]><![CDATA[In the 18th century, Naturalists referred to beauty as that which was functional. The 19th century Romantics said it was the sublime. Many 20th century artists just resorted to shocking people in the name of art and beauty. Art conferences and critics in the late 20th century have shown a renewed interest in the concept of why beauty matters, increasingly using the word "beauty" again. But, the concept appears to have lost some of its meaning. What do we mean by beauty? Could the answer lay in how beauty relates to our brokenness and need for restoration? As Isaiah 61:3 says, "He gave me beauty for ashes, the oil of joy for mourning …" Download the slides: ]]><![CDATA[L'Abri Fellowship]]>Sat, 22 Jun 2019 09:26:47 GMT

In the 18th century, Naturalists referred to beauty as that which was functional. The 19th century Romantics said it was the sublime. Many 20th century artists just resorted to shocking people in the name of art and beauty. Art conferences and critics in the late 20th century have shown a renewed interest in the concept of why beauty matters, increasingly using the word "beauty" again. But, the concept appears to have lost some of its meaning. What do we mean by beauty? Could the answer lay in how beauty relates to our brokenness and need for restoration? As Isaiah 61:3 says, "He gave me beauty for ashes, the oil of joy for mourning …" Download the slides:

No3030<![CDATA[Creatures of Our Own Devising—A Critique of the Modern Self (Andy Patton)]]><![CDATA[The quest to find one’s self is an ancient one, but modern people pursue it with new means and new ends. People today often build their identities on the pillars of freedom, self-expression, disenchantment and authenticity. What resources and challenges can Christianity bring to the questions of the self? Can there be truth and beauty to an idea that is anathema to many moderns: an identity is best founded not on one’s self at all, but on God? Download the slides: ]]><![CDATA[L'Abri Fellowship]]>Sat, 22 Jun 2019 09:23:41 GMT

The quest to find one’s self is an ancient one, but modern people pursue it with new means and new ends. People today often build their identities on the pillars of freedom, self-expression, disenchantment and authenticity. What resources and challenges can Christianity bring to the questions of the self? Can there be truth and beauty to an idea that is anathema to many moderns: an identity is best founded not on one’s self at all, but on God? Download the slides:

No5407<![CDATA[John Stott: The Man and His Legacy]]><![CDATA[Legacy is best judged after 20 or 30 years or more, but there are elements of a lasting ministry which are evident much sooner. Julia Cameron will outline John Stott’s life and point to some of its effects which are already visible. He was, she argues, a man of colossal influence, like his mentor, Charles Simeon. ]]><![CDATA[L'Abri Fellowship]]>Sat, 18 May 2019 09:28:42 GMT

Legacy is best judged after 20 or 30 years or more, but there are elements of a lasting ministry which are evident much sooner. Julia Cameron will outline John Stott’s life and point to some of its effects which are already visible. He was, she argues, a man of colossal influence, like his mentor, Charles Simeon.

No4969<![CDATA[The Multiple Meanings of Life: Understanding Herman Dooyeweerd's philosophy (Part 3) (Josué Reichow)]]><![CDATA[This lecture will continue a series on the Dutch Christian philosopher Herman Dooyeweerd. We will explore the way humans experience reality in all its various facets. Dooyeweerd’s Christian ontology is a powerful perspective which challenges contemporary perspectives that reduce and degrade life. ]]><![CDATA[L'Abri Fellowship]]>Mon, 15 Apr 2019 11:31:29 GMT

This lecture will continue a series on the Dutch Christian philosopher Herman Dooyeweerd. We will explore the way humans experience reality in all its various facets. Dooyeweerd’s Christian ontology is a powerful perspective which challenges contemporary perspectives that reduce and degrade life.

No5446<![CDATA[Understanding Herman Dooyeweerd: Christian Philosopher—Part 2 (Josué Reichow)]]><![CDATA[L'Abri Fellowship]]>Wed, 03 Apr 2019 19:07:50 GMTNo5221<![CDATA[Understanding Herman Dooyeweerd: Christian Philosopher—Part 1 (Josué Reichow)]]><![CDATA[L'Abri Fellowship]]>Wed, 03 Apr 2019 19:06:15 GMTNo4844<![CDATA[The Psalm Code—Genesis Imagery in the Psalms (Andy Patton)]]><![CDATA[Can you understand the Psalms without understanding the first two chapters of Genesis? Much of the imagery of the Psalms is built upon a handful of core images found in Genesis that appear again and again in the Psalter and throughout Scripture. We will look at where these metaphors come from, how they have shaped biblical poetry, and what they reveal about God himself. ]]><![CDATA[L'Abri Fellowship]]>Wed, 03 Apr 2019 10:22:11 GMT

Can you understand the Psalms without understanding the first two chapters of Genesis? Much of the imagery of the Psalms is built upon a handful of core images found in Genesis that appear again and again in the Psalter and throughout Scripture. We will look at where these metaphors come from, how they have shaped biblical poetry, and what they reveal about God himself.

No5186<![CDATA[What's Caritas Got To Do, Got To Do With It? Love & Christian Ethics (Marc LiVecche)]]><![CDATA[What is love? What does it have to do with the ethical life of the Christian? What is at stake when we get love wrong? In an age in which love seems increasingly sentimental and maudlin, this talk aims at a course correction by first proposing a framework for the character of Christian love and then applying the proposal to cases, including war. ]]><![CDATA[L'Abri Fellowship]]>Wed, 03 Apr 2019 09:30:39 GMT

What is love? What does it have to do with the ethical life of the Christian? What is at stake when we get love wrong? In an age in which love seems increasingly sentimental and maudlin, this talk aims at a course correction by first proposing a framework for the character of Christian love and then applying the proposal to cases, including war.

No3519<![CDATA[Should I Stay? Exploring The Value Of Place In A Mobile & Virtual Culture (Joel Barricklow)]]><![CDATA[As embodied creatures, to be human is to be in a particular place. But does it matter where that is? What value is there in committing to a place? We will consider the ideas shaping our decisions to stay or to go, to engage or to escape. ]]><![CDATA[L'Abri Fellowship]]>Wed, 20 Mar 2019 06:15:36 GMT

As embodied creatures, to be human is to be in a particular place. But does it matter where that is? What value is there in committing to a place? We will consider the ideas shaping our decisions to stay or to go, to engage or to escape.

No5427<![CDATA[The Odyssey (Part Two): The Search For Home And the Nature of the Gods]]><![CDATA[We will examine the themes of dislocation and homecoming and discuss the nature of the Homeric gods. This lecture will include a comparison with and critique of the Homeric cosmos and worldview from a Biblical perspective. ]]><![CDATA[L'Abri Fellowship]]>Wed, 13 Mar 2019 10:21:32 GMT

We will examine the themes of dislocation and homecoming and discuss the nature of the Homeric gods. This lecture will include a comparison with and critique of the Homeric cosmos and worldview from a Biblical perspective.

No5733<![CDATA[Beyond Male and Female—Searching for a Deeper Meaning in the Contemporary Gender Debate (Jim Paul)]]><![CDATA[The current gender debate often flattens out the meaning of gender - male and female are merely the result of evolutionary developments and therefore we can construct and reconstruct gender in any way we see fit. But the Bible sees a deeper meaning behind gender, as well as giving a more nuanced account of our experience of what it means to be male and female. ]]><![CDATA[L'Abri Fellowship]]>Wed, 20 Feb 2019 08:55:59 GMT

The current gender debate often flattens out the meaning of gender - male and female are merely the result of evolutionary developments and therefore we can construct and reconstruct gender in any way we see fit. But the Bible sees a deeper meaning behind gender, as well as giving a more nuanced account of our experience of what it means to be male and female.

No3403<![CDATA[Prodigal: Exploring Entitlement And Drifting Through Rembrandt’s Painting And Luke 15 (Per-Ole Lind)]]><![CDATA[A collaborative study of Rembrandt’s artwork and exposition of the text implementing insights from Henri Nouwen and Tim Keller. ]]><![CDATA[L'Abri Fellowship]]>Wed, 20 Feb 2019 08:49:05 GMT

A collaborative study of Rembrandt’s artwork and exposition of the text implementing insights from Henri Nouwen and Tim Keller.

No6525<![CDATA[Literary Analysis and the Gospel of John: What Is Happening? (Dirk Jongkind)]]><![CDATA[The Gospel of John has been analysed with the help of literary categories more than any other book of the New Testament. Literary criticism is not so much about the good story, but about how the story is told. Looking at John through a literary filter shows features that would have been easily missed otherwise. In this lecture, we will develop some of the literary concepts and see how they work in reading John. ]]><![CDATA[L'Abri Fellowship]]>Wed, 06 Feb 2019 10:56:26 GMT

The Gospel of John has been analysed with the help of literary categories more than any other book of the New Testament. Literary criticism is not so much about the good story, but about how the story is told. Looking at John through a literary filter shows features that would have been easily missed otherwise. In this lecture, we will develop some of the literary concepts and see how they work in reading John.

No5440<![CDATA[Let's Talk: The Importance Of Conversation In An Age Of Polarization (Lili Reichow)]]><![CDATA[We are living in times of polarisation. It seems that in every aspect of life, there are those who are right - us - and those who are wrong - them. What is pushing us into this position? How can we find a way to truly encounter one another? We will look at how conversation can help us to engage with others in ways that reflect reality and enable us to grow. ]]><![CDATA[L'Abri Fellowship]]>Mon, 21 Jan 2019 14:14:59 GMT

We are living in times of polarisation. It seems that in every aspect of life, there are those who are right - us - and those who are wrong - them. What is pushing us into this position? How can we find a way to truly encounter one another? We will look at how conversation can help us to engage with others in ways that reflect reality and enable us to grow.

No4810<![CDATA[Work—Cultivation, Service, and Becoming Human (Joel Barricklow)]]><![CDATA[For some work is about survival. For others it involves issues of identity. Many are unsure they are in the right type of work at all. Yet, almost everyone seeks meaningful work. The narratives of purpose and meaning around our work are deeply rooted in our time, place, and experience. This lecture will attempt to reframe our understanding of work as a core element of being human, yet one keenly affected by the Fall—moving from how work fits into our lives to how we fit into the work of God. Download the Powerpoint slides: Recommended reading on the topic of faith & work: ]]><![CDATA[L'Abri Fellowship]]>Sun, 16 Dec 2018 15:44:29 GMT

For some work is about survival. For others it involves issues of identity. Many are unsure they are in the right type of work at all. Yet, almost everyone seeks meaningful work. The narratives of purpose and meaning around our work are deeply rooted in our time, place, and experience. This lecture will attempt to reframe our understanding of work as a core element of being human, yet one keenly affected by the Fall—moving from how work fits into our lives to how we fit into the work of God. Download the Powerpoint slides: Recommended reading on the topic of faith & work:

No5311<![CDATA[Deconversion: Why Do People Lose Their Faith? (Andy Patton)]]><![CDATA[Five hundred years ago losing one’s faith would have been unimaginable, but today it is commonplace (and even celebrated). To many, the Christian faith seems unbelievable and life seems filled with reasons to set it aside. Both belief and doubt have become increasingly fragile as individuals inhabit a liminal space between the two. What are the factors that have contributed to this shift? Can faith actually be lost? If so, how can it be found again? ]]><![CDATA[L'Abri Fellowship]]>Wed, 21 Nov 2018 15:50:22 GMT

Five hundred years ago losing one’s faith would have been unimaginable, but today it is commonplace (and even celebrated). To many, the Christian faith seems unbelievable and life seems filled with reasons to set it aside. Both belief and doubt have become increasingly fragile as individuals inhabit a liminal space between the two. What are the factors that have contributed to this shift? Can faith actually be lost? If so, how can it be found again?

No5301<![CDATA[Love and Apple Pie (Marsh Moyle)]]><![CDATA[Love seems to be a very unstable feeling. What do we mean by the word? Does it have any real place in modern life? ]]><![CDATA[L'Abri Fellowship]]>Wed, 21 Nov 2018 14:27:52 GMT

Love seems to be a very unstable feeling. What do we mean by the word? Does it have any real place in modern life?

No4559<![CDATA[The Enneagram: A Framework for Personality (Andy Patton)]]><![CDATA[The Enneagram is a personality typing system which offers a framework for understanding oneself and others through nine interconnected personality types. In recent years, it has risen in popularity, especially among Christians. We will look at the nine types, how the Enneagram can be used and misused, and what insights it can offer individuals and communities. ]]><![CDATA[L'Abri Fellowship]]>Tue, 13 Nov 2018 06:29:12 GMT

The Enneagram is a personality typing system which offers a framework for understanding oneself and others through nine interconnected personality types. In recent years, it has risen in popularity, especially among Christians. We will look at the nine types, how the Enneagram can be used and misused, and what insights it can offer individuals and communities.

No7512<![CDATA[In Pursuit of Goodness, Beauty and Truth: Why Should We Read Aloud? (Dawn Merz)]]><![CDATA[In the buzz and busyness of life, it is important to make choices for ourselves and for those we love (especially our children!) to slow down, to carve out spaces for connection and healthy interactions, and foster a safe environment in which we can explore life's greatest questions, encounter dragons and villains, and develop a taste for goodness, beauty and truth. ]]><![CDATA[L'Abri Fellowship]]>Tue, 30 Oct 2018 08:55:29 GMT

In the buzz and busyness of life, it is important to make choices for ourselves and for those we love (especially our children!) to slow down, to carve out spaces for connection and healthy interactions, and foster a safe environment in which we can explore life's greatest questions, encounter dragons and villains, and develop a taste for goodness, beauty and truth.

No5421<![CDATA[The Intriguing Friendship between Francis Schaeffer and Hans Rookmaaker (Edith Reitsema)]]><![CDATA[Francis Schaeffer was a Christian apologist whose remarkable breadth of cultural interest and penetrating insights into modern life, led many to a profound spiritual reality. Hans Rookmaaker was an art historian whose Christian insights in art, music and culture had widespread influence. Both had vibrant personalities, striking charisma, and focused on how to engage with reality while creatively living out a relationship with God. For further reading: William Edgar, Schaeffer on the Christian Life Bryan A. Follis, Truth with Love: The Apologetics of Francis Schaeffer Colin Duriez, Francis Schaeffer: An Authentic Life Linette Martin, Hans Rookmaaker: A Biography Laurel Gasque, Art and the Christian Mind: The Life and Work of H.R.Rookmaaker ]]><![CDATA[L'Abri Fellowship]]>Mon, 29 Oct 2018 07:40:25 GMT

Francis Schaeffer was a Christian apologist whose remarkable breadth of cultural interest and penetrating insights into modern life, led many to a profound spiritual reality. Hans Rookmaaker was an art historian whose Christian insights in art, music and culture had widespread influence. Both had vibrant personalities, striking charisma, and focused on how to engage with reality while creatively living out a relationship with God. For further reading: William Edgar, Schaeffer on the Christian Life Bryan A. Follis, Truth with Love: The Apologetics of Francis Schaeffer Colin Duriez, Francis Schaeffer: An Authentic Life Linette Martin, Hans Rookmaaker: A Biography Laurel Gasque, Art and the Christian Mind: The Life and Work of H.R.Rookmaaker

No4825<![CDATA[Is the Singularity Near? A Christian Critique of Transhumanism (Josué Reichow)]]><![CDATA[The aim of this lecture is to present a panorama of a movement born in our era called “transhumanism”. From computer scientists and tech experts to philosophers and theologians, transhumanist thinking has been spreading quickly as a belief system to various areas of life. My goal is to analyse their concept of singularity and its centrality as a driving force for their enterprise, offering a Christian response to the main themes developed by transhumanists. ]]><![CDATA[L'Abri Fellowship]]>Mon, 15 Oct 2018 05:20:51 GMT

The aim of this lecture is to present a panorama of a movement born in our era called “transhumanism”. From computer scientists and tech experts to philosophers and theologians, transhumanist thinking has been spreading quickly as a belief system to various areas of life. My goal is to analyse their concept of singularity and its centrality as a driving force for their enterprise, offering a Christian response to the main themes developed by transhumanists.

No6147<![CDATA[Virtue In A Virtual Society (Alastair Roberts)]]><![CDATA[Many traditional accounts of ethics focus on the concept of virtue, the cultivation of the self towards an elevating telos by shared practices in community. Since the advent of social media, there has been a remarkable transformation in our relationships and in the realities that lie at the heart of such ethics: self, character, community, and shared practices. Understanding how we are being changed will equip us to act more prudently. ]]><![CDATA[L'Abri Fellowship]]>Sat, 13 Oct 2018 10:01:24 GMT

Many traditional accounts of ethics focus on the concept of virtue, the cultivation of the self towards an elevating telos by shared practices in community. Since the advent of social media, there has been a remarkable transformation in our relationships and in the realities that lie at the heart of such ethics: self, character, community, and shared practices. Understanding how we are being changed will equip us to act more prudently.

No6208<![CDATA[Exploring Character in Science, Theology and Practice (Roger Bretherton)]]><![CDATA[This lecture will outline the principles and findings of the Integrated Character Project: a programme of psychological studies, biblical and theological reflection, and practical application. We will address the implications for Christian living, education, work life, and mental health. ]]><![CDATA[L'Abri Fellowship]]>Wed, 03 Oct 2018 19:19:49 GMT

This lecture will outline the principles and findings of the Integrated Character Project: a programme of psychological studies, biblical and theological reflection, and practical application. We will address the implications for Christian living, education, work life, and mental health.

No4890<![CDATA[Why Read the Classics? An Invitation to the Odyssey (Peter Merz)]]><![CDATA[Peter Merz offers an in-depth analysis of Homer's Odyssey as an invitation to explore the classics in general and discover their beauty and wisdom which has stood the test of time. ]]><![CDATA[L'Abri Fellowship]]>Thu, 16 Aug 2018 09:24:45 GMT

Peter Merz offers an in-depth analysis of Homer's Odyssey as an invitation to explore the classics in general and discover their beauty and wisdom which has stood the test of time.

No5936<![CDATA[Conflict: Under the Carpet or Under the Cross? (Marsh Moyle)]]><![CDATA[Interpersonal conflict is painful and yet confrontation is necessary if we are to have more than superficial relationships. What issues have to be addressed if we are to negotiate the minefield and a way that is profitable for them (and not necessarily for us). ]]><![CDATA[L'Abri Fellowship]]>Wed, 15 Aug 2018 13:49:15 GMT

Interpersonal conflict is painful and yet confrontation is necessary if we are to have more than superficial relationships. What issues have to be addressed if we are to negotiate the minefield and a way that is profitable for them (and not necessarily for us).

No5855<![CDATA[Seeing the Transfigured Word (Alastair Roberts)]]><![CDATA[The event of Christ’s Transfiguration is a more important one in the New Testament than we often appreciate. Properly understood, it gives us a key for reading the Bible as a whole. ]]><![CDATA[L'Abri Fellowship]]>Sun, 29 Jul 2018 08:39:06 GMT

The event of Christ’s Transfiguration is a more important one in the New Testament than we often appreciate. Properly understood, it gives us a key for reading the Bible as a whole.

No5614<![CDATA[Behind the Scenes: The Life and Letters of Dorothy Sayers (Dawn Merz)]]><![CDATA[Dorothy Sayers, a contemporary of C. S. Lewis and J. R. R. Tolkien and an unofficial "female Inkling," the literary coterie that gave birth to The Chronicles of Narnia and The Lord of the Rings. In this lecture, Dawn Merz explores her life, letters, and powerful, but often overlooked, contribution to Christian literature and thought. ]]><![CDATA[L'Abri Fellowship]]>Mon, 16 Jul 2018 13:53:26 GMT

Dorothy Sayers, a contemporary of C. S. Lewis and J. R. R. Tolkien and an unofficial "female Inkling," the literary coterie that gave birth to The Chronicles of Narnia and The Lord of the Rings. In this lecture, Dawn Merz explores her life, letters, and powerful, but often overlooked, contribution to Christian literature and thought.

No6413<![CDATA[True Spirituality in the Arts: Recapturing the Wonder (Edith Reitsema)]]><![CDATA[Christian artists often struggle to integrate their faith with their artwork and end up with a sacred-secular split. We will look at an array of artworks to help us see what it looks like when we try to shut Christ out of a big part of our lives. This false dichotomy splits our hearts, and this problem is in no way limited to artists. Isaiah 29 and Colossians 2 will help us think about what it would look like for us to recapture the wonder of Christ working in our hearts with “wonder upon wonder” (Isaiah 29:14). ]]><![CDATA[L'Abri Fellowship]]>Sun, 15 Jul 2018 13:43:28 GMT

Christian artists often struggle to integrate their faith with their artwork and end up with a sacred-secular split. We will look at an array of artworks to help us see what it looks like when we try to shut Christ out of a big part of our lives. This false dichotomy splits our hearts, and this problem is in no way limited to artists. Isaiah 29 and Colossians 2 will help us think about what it would look like for us to recapture the wonder of Christ working in our hearts with “wonder upon wonder” (Isaiah 29:14).

No5578<![CDATA[Trained to Distraction: The Attention Economy, Technology, and Our Lives (Lili Reichow)]]><![CDATA[Our capacity to pay attention is central to human flourishing. A whole influential industry—powered by modern technology and our proximity to our smartphones—has been targeting our ability to attend in order to keep us hooked to their products and invest our time in a way that is profitable for them (and not necessarily for us). In this lecture, we will look at how the Attention Economy works, how it influences our lives, and how we can respond to it in a healthy way. ]]><![CDATA[L'Abri Fellowship]]>Sun, 15 Jul 2018 13:27:29 GMT

Our capacity to pay attention is central to human flourishing. A whole influential industry—powered by modern technology and our proximity to our smartphones—has been targeting our ability to attend in order to keep us hooked to their products and invest our time in a way that is profitable for them (and not necessarily for us). In this lecture, we will look at how the Attention Economy works, how it influences our lives, and how we can respond to it in a healthy way.

No5625<![CDATA[Islam and Reformation (Arthur Keefer)]]><![CDATA[The Protestant Reformation’s 500-year anniversary and recent calls to reform the religion of Islam prompt the question of what reformation might entail for Muslims. What has and what will reformation look like in Islam? Keefer considers this question by exploring the history of the religion and its theological tenets. ]]><![CDATA[L'Abri Fellowship]]>Sun, 24 Jun 2018 13:03:43 GMT

The Protestant Reformation’s 500-year anniversary and recent calls to reform the religion of Islam prompt the question of what reformation might entail for Muslims. What has and what will reformation look like in Islam? Keefer considers this question by exploring the history of the religion and its theological tenets.

No3493<![CDATA[Building Cathedrals Within Time - A Theology of Rest (Best of Andrew Fellows—Part 2)]]><![CDATA[Andrew Fellows interacts with Abraham Heschel's book "The Sabbath" and builds a theology of rest by looking at how we interact with space and time. ]]><![CDATA[L'Abri Fellowship]]>Thu, 14 Jun 2018 08:40:55 GMT

Andrew Fellows interacts with Abraham Heschel's book "The Sabbath" and builds a theology of rest by looking at how we interact with space and time.

No4967<![CDATA[Three Years to Save the World: Was Jesus Busy? (Claire Paye)]]><![CDATA[Taking inspiration from Romans 12:2 about being transformed by renewing our minds, this lecture looks at the cult of busyness. Are Christians too busy? How do we cope in a world where we will never finish everything we have to do? How did Jesus manage all the demands on his time? ]]><![CDATA[L'Abri Fellowship]]>Mon, 11 Jun 2018 12:16:12 GMT

Taking inspiration from Romans 12:2 about being transformed by renewing our minds, this lecture looks at the cult of busyness. Are Christians too busy? How do we cope in a world where we will never finish everything we have to do? How did Jesus manage all the demands on his time?

No5431<![CDATA[Black Tea for H. R. Rookmaaker: Contextualising Dr. Rookmaaker’s Work for the 21st Century (Peter S. Smith)]]><![CDATA[Prompted by recent interest in Dr. Rookmaaker’s work, Peter Smith reflects on the decade-long relationship he had with the art historian. Through personal meetings and letters from 1967 to 1977, what kind of influence did Rookmaaker have on a young painter and printmaker? How do we understand his legacy in today’s context? Did he open doors that we have yet to walk through? ]]><![CDATA[L'Abri Fellowship]]>Mon, 11 Jun 2018 07:19:53 GMT

Prompted by recent interest in Dr. Rookmaaker’s work, Peter Smith reflects on the decade-long relationship he had with the art historian. Through personal meetings and letters from 1967 to 1977, what kind of influence did Rookmaaker have on a young painter and printmaker? How do we understand his legacy in today’s context? Did he open doors that we have yet to walk through?

No6831<![CDATA[A Play in Words: The Story of French Chanson (Pat Harvey)]]><![CDATA[In this lecture, Pat Harvey leads a whistle-stop tour of 20th-century French chanson. She surveys notable singers from the niche genre and introduces a few of their most well-known songs. ]]><![CDATA[L'Abri Fellowship]]>Sun, 10 Jun 2018 13:14:31 GMT

In this lecture, Pat Harvey leads a whistle-stop tour of 20th-century French chanson. She surveys notable singers from the niche genre and introduces a few of their most well-known songs.

No4965<![CDATA[Community as a Subversion of Modernity (Best of Andrew Fellows—Part 1)]]><![CDATA[Andrew Fellows, former L'Abri worker, walks us through the development of modernity and proposes life in community as a buffer against the more negative aspects of modern life. ]]><![CDATA[L'Abri Fellowship]]>Fri, 18 May 2018 08:39:17 GMT

Andrew Fellows, former L'Abri worker, walks us through the development of modernity and proposes life in community as a buffer against the more negative aspects of modern life.

No5043<![CDATA[How Technology Behaves—Part 2 (Andy Patton)]]><![CDATA[Many today feel uncertain about how to respond to a changing technological landscape. Having previously outlined a few rules for what technology is and how it behaves, this lecture explores what we should do about it and proposes a response that avoids the double dangers of fear and utopianism. A lecture given by Andy Patton (L'Abri Worker) at English L'Abri on 23 June, 2017. For more information, visit for more L'Abri lectures, visit the L'Abri Ideas Library. For further reading: What Technology Wants (Kevin Kelly) Reclaiming Conversation (Sherry Turkle) ]]><![CDATA[L'Abri Fellowship]]>Thu, 10 May 2018 13:32:23 GMT

Many today feel uncertain about how to respond to a changing technological landscape. Having previously outlined a few rules for what technology is and how it behaves, this lecture explores what we should do about it and proposes a response that avoids the double dangers of fear and utopianism. A lecture given by Andy Patton (L'Abri Worker) at English L'Abri on 23 June, 2017. For more information, visit for more L'Abri lectures, visit the L'Abri Ideas Library. For further reading: What Technology Wants (Kevin Kelly) Reclaiming Conversation (Sherry Turkle)

No4969<![CDATA[How Technology Behaves—Part 1 (Andy Patton)]]><![CDATA[Many today feel uncertain about how to respond to a changing technological landscape. If neither technophobia nor technophoria are adequate responses, can we chart a middle way? This lecture outlines a few rules for what technology is, how it behaves, what we should do about it, and proposes a response that avoids the double dangers of fear and utopianism. A lecture given by Andy Patton (L'Abri Worker) at English L'Abri on 18 October, 2017. For more information, visit for more L'Abri lectures, visit the L'Abri Ideas Library. For further reading: What Technology Wants (Kevin Kelly) Understanding Media (Marshall McLuhan) Technopoly (Neil Postman) The Technological Society (Jacques Ellul) The Singularity Is Near (Ray Kurzweil) ]]><![CDATA[L'Abri Fellowship]]>Thu, 10 May 2018 13:06:01 GMT

Many today feel uncertain about how to respond to a changing technological landscape. If neither technophobia nor technophoria are adequate responses, can we chart a middle way? This lecture outlines a few rules for what technology is, how it behaves, what we should do about it, and proposes a response that avoids the double dangers of fear and utopianism. A lecture given by Andy Patton (L'Abri Worker) at English L'Abri on 18 October, 2017. For more information, visit for more L'Abri lectures, visit the L'Abri Ideas Library. For further reading: What Technology Wants (Kevin Kelly) Understanding Media (Marshall McLuhan) Technopoly (Neil Postman) The Technological Society (Jacques Ellul) The Singularity Is Near (Ray Kurzweil)

No6319<![CDATA[The Terrible Comfort of Good Friday (Phillip Johnston)]]><![CDATA[When asked what happened when Jesus was crucified, many Christians can give little more than short, pithy summaries: 'He was dying for our sins' or 'He was taking our punishment' or 'He was showing how much God loved us.' The Bible has more to say. As preparation for Good Friday, this lecture explores the deep terror and unspeakable comfort of the brutal execution at the heart of Christian faith. A lecture given by Phillip Johnston (L'Abri Worker) at English L'Abri on 23rd March, 2018. For more information, visit and for more L'Abri lectures, visit the L'Abri Ideas Library. For further exploration: Knowing Jesus Through the Old Testament (Christopher J.H. Wright) The New Testament and the People of God (N.T. Wright) The Crucifixion: Understanding the Death of Jesus Christ (Fleming Rutledge) ]]><![CDATA[L'Abri Fellowship]]>Wed, 28 Mar 2018 08:00:00 GMT

When asked what happened when Jesus was crucified, many Christians can give little more than short, pithy summaries: 'He was dying for our sins' or 'He was taking our punishment' or 'He was showing how much God loved us.' The Bible has more to say. As preparation for Good Friday, this lecture explores the deep terror and unspeakable comfort of the brutal execution at the heart of Christian faith. A lecture given by Phillip Johnston (L'Abri Worker) at English L'Abri on 23rd March, 2018. For more information, visit and for more L'Abri lectures, visit the L'Abri Ideas Library. For further exploration: Knowing Jesus Through the Old Testament (Christopher J.H. Wright) The New Testament and the People of God (N.T. Wright) The Crucifixion: Understanding the Death of Jesus Christ (Fleming Rutledge)

No5080<![CDATA[Understanding the Times: Some Trajectories for the Future (Marsh Moyle)]]><![CDATA[The culture is polarised—not just left and right but the centre and the periphery, the cosmopolitans and the provincials. This lecture will sketch some trajectories for where this might lead and consider what we should do about it. A lecture given by Marsh Moyle at English L'Abri on 16th March, 2018. For more information, visit for more L'Abri lectures, visit the L'Abri Ideas Library. ]]><![CDATA[L'Abri Fellowship]]>Sat, 24 Mar 2018 08:41:57 GMT

The culture is polarised—not just left and right but the centre and the periphery, the cosmopolitans and the provincials. This lecture will sketch some trajectories for where this might lead and consider what we should do about it. A lecture given by Marsh Moyle at English L'Abri on 16th March, 2018. For more information, visit for more L'Abri lectures, visit the L'Abri Ideas Library.

No5477<![CDATA[Beyond Redemption? The Catholic Imagination of the Godfather Trilogy (Andrew Jones)]]><![CDATA[Francis Ford Coppola’s The Godfather (1972) and The Godfather: Part II (1974) are widely regarded as two of the greatest films of the twentieth century. The Godfather: Part III (1990) is often dismissed as a pale failure. This lecture explores how the trilogy as a whole reflects the work of a specifically Catholic imagination where the moral universe is viewed through the sacraments of the Church. A lecture given by Andrew Jones (Vicar of Grace Church Hackney, London) at English L'Abri on 9th March, 2018. For more information, visit for more L'Abri lectures, visit the L'Abri Ideas Library. ]]><![CDATA[L'Abri Fellowship]]>Wed, 14 Mar 2018 15:24:04 GMT

Francis Ford Coppola’s The Godfather (1972) and The Godfather: Part II (1974) are widely regarded as two of the greatest films of the twentieth century. The Godfather: Part III (1990) is often dismissed as a pale failure. This lecture explores how the trilogy as a whole reflects the work of a specifically Catholic imagination where the moral universe is viewed through the sacraments of the Church. A lecture given by Andrew Jones (Vicar of Grace Church Hackney, London) at English L'Abri on 9th March, 2018. For more information, visit for more L'Abri lectures, visit the L'Abri Ideas Library.

No4658<![CDATA[Eating People is Wrong: A Description of Other-centred Love (Andrew Fellows)]]><![CDATA[This talk explains what other-centred love looks like and how ‘the inferno of self-love’ works against it. We consider how Christ alone is the reference point for understanding the greatness of the highest love. A lecture given by Andrew Fellows at English L'Abri on 24th February, 2018. Andrew is director of Christian Heritage, a study centre community serving Cambridge. Andrew was the former chairman of L'Abri International Fellowship and director of English L'Abri from 1995-2015. For further study: Radical Alterity (Jean Baudrillard) In the Self's Place: The Approach of Saint Augustine (Jean-Luc Marion) The Agony of Eros (Byung-Chul Han) ]]><![CDATA[L'Abri Fellowship]]>Sat, 24 Feb 2018 13:34:01 GMT

This talk explains what other-centred love looks like and how ‘the inferno of self-love’ works against it. We consider how Christ alone is the reference point for understanding the greatness of the highest love. A lecture given by Andrew Fellows at English L'Abri on 24th February, 2018. Andrew is director of Christian Heritage, a study centre community serving Cambridge. Andrew was the former chairman of L'Abri International Fellowship and director of English L'Abri from 1995-2015. For further study: Radical Alterity (Jean Baudrillard) In the Self's Place: The Approach of Saint Augustine (Jean-Luc Marion) The Agony of Eros (Byung-Chul Han)

No5130<![CDATA[Come and Rest: An Invitation to the Exhausted (Lili Reichow)]]><![CDATA[In a time of busy, workaholic, multitasking, tired people, is there a space for rest? This lecture looks at reasons why rest has become such a distant concept and explores its powerful and transformative offer to our lives. A lecture given by Lili Reichow (L'Abri Worker) at English L'Abri on 16th February, 2018. For more information, visit and for more L'Abri lectures, visit the L'Abri Ideas Library. ]]><![CDATA[L'Abri Fellowship]]>Mon, 19 Feb 2018 14:03:21 GMT

In a time of busy, workaholic, multitasking, tired people, is there a space for rest? This lecture looks at reasons why rest has become such a distant concept and explores its powerful and transformative offer to our lives. A lecture given by Lili Reichow (L'Abri Worker) at English L'Abri on 16th February, 2018. For more information, visit and for more L'Abri lectures, visit the L'Abri Ideas Library.

No5214<![CDATA[On Thankfulness (Josué Reichow)]]><![CDATA[This lecture articulates a theological and philosophical definition of thankfulness, trying to find broader categories to think about a common concept in a more comprehensive way. A lecture given by Josué Reichow (L'Abri Worker) at English L'Abri on 9th February, 2018. For more information, visit and for more L'Abri lectures, visit the L'Abri Ideas Library. ]]><![CDATA[L'Abri Fellowship]]>Sat, 10 Feb 2018 09:20:45 GMT

This lecture articulates a theological and philosophical definition of thankfulness, trying to find broader categories to think about a common concept in a more comprehensive way. A lecture given by Josué Reichow (L'Abri Worker) at English L'Abri on 9th February, 2018. For more information, visit and for more L'Abri lectures, visit the L'Abri Ideas Library.

No5426<![CDATA[A Return to Virtue: Character Formation for Us and for Our Children (Tom Smiley)]]><![CDATA[There is a renewed recognition in education, politics and business that character is crucial for the future of society and human flourishing. But what is character? Can it be educated into children? And what about us? This lecture will consider these questions with a look back to ancient wisdom and forward to the latest psychological research. A lecture given by Tom Smiley (Clinical Psychologist) at English L'Abri on 2nd February, 2018. For more information, visit for more L'Abri lectures, visit the L'Abri Ideas Library. For further study: Virtue Reborn (Tom Wright) The Science of Virtue: Why Positive Psychology Matters for the Church (Mark McMinn) The Psychology of Christian Character Formation (Joanna Collicutt) Character Strengths and Virtues: A Handbook and Classification (Christopher Peterson and Martin Seligman) ]]><![CDATA[L'Abri Fellowship]]>Sat, 03 Feb 2018 12:00:00 GMT

There is a renewed recognition in education, politics and business that character is crucial for the future of society and human flourishing. But what is character? Can it be educated into children? And what about us? This lecture will consider these questions with a look back to ancient wisdom and forward to the latest psychological research. A lecture given by Tom Smiley (Clinical Psychologist) at English L'Abri on 2nd February, 2018. For more information, visit for more L'Abri lectures, visit the L'Abri Ideas Library. For further study: Virtue Reborn (Tom Wright) The Science of Virtue: Why Positive Psychology Matters for the Church (Mark McMinn) The Psychology of Christian Character Formation (Joanna Collicutt) Character Strengths and Virtues: A Handbook and Classification (Christopher Peterson and Martin Seligman)

No6072<![CDATA[How to Read the Story of Jesus in Every Part of the Bible: An Introduction to Biblical Theology (Andy Patton)]]><![CDATA[From Genesis to Revelation, God uses many threads—themes, narratives, characters, and symbols—to weave a single story. This lecture introduces ‘Biblical theology,’ a way of reading the Bible that seeks to trace each thread as it develops throughout scripture to better understand God's work in Jesus, the one to whom all the threads lead. A lecture given by Andy Patton (L'Abri Worker) at English L'Abri on 26th January, 2018. For more information, visit and for more L'Abri lectures, visit the L'Abri Ideas Library. For further study: Videos and resources from The Bible Project Handbook on the New Testament Use of the Old Testament (G.K. Beale) Reading Backwards: Figural Christology and the Fourfold Gospel Witness (Richard Hays) ]]><![CDATA[L'Abri Fellowship]]>Mon, 29 Jan 2018 11:16:24 GMT

From Genesis to Revelation, God uses many threads—themes, narratives, characters, and symbols—to weave a single story. This lecture introduces ‘Biblical theology,’ a way of reading the Bible that seeks to trace each thread as it develops throughout scripture to better understand God's work in Jesus, the one to whom all the threads lead. A lecture given by Andy Patton (L'Abri Worker) at English L'Abri on 26th January, 2018. For more information, visit and for more L'Abri lectures, visit the L'Abri Ideas Library. For further study: Videos and resources from The Bible Project Handbook on the New Testament Use of the Old Testament (G.K. Beale) Reading Backwards: Figural Christology and the Fourfold Gospel Witness (Richard Hays)

No5016<![CDATA[Surfing the Wave: Rapid Cultural Change and the Transgender Agenda (Jim Paul)]]><![CDATA[Transgender rights have gone from a minor issue to becoming the cultural battlefield of the past few years, with major gains made by the transgender lobby in terms of law, educational policy, media coverage and celebrity endorsement. How has the transgender lobby been so successful in changing public opinion and the voices against transgenderism so unsuccessful in holding back this cultural change? A lecture given by Jim Paul (L'Abri Worker) at English L'Abri on 19th January, 2018. For more information, visit and for more L'Abri lectures, visit the L'Abri Ideas Library. For further study: "The Gender Equality Paradox" (from NRK 1's Hjernevask series) "Susie Orbach on women’s bodies and why the panic about gender is disturbing" (Janice Turner, The Times, 11 January 2018) Roots of Western Culture (Herman Dooyeweerd) ]]><![CDATA[L'Abri Fellowship]]>Sat, 20 Jan 2018 11:11:32 GMT

Transgender rights have gone from a minor issue to becoming the cultural battlefield of the past few years, with major gains made by the transgender lobby in terms of law, educational policy, media coverage and celebrity endorsement. How has the transgender lobby been so successful in changing public opinion and the voices against transgenderism so unsuccessful in holding back this cultural change? A lecture given by Jim Paul (L'Abri Worker) at English L'Abri on 19th January, 2018. For more information, visit and for more L'Abri lectures, visit the L'Abri Ideas Library. For further study: "The Gender Equality Paradox" (from NRK 1's Hjernevask series) "Susie Orbach on women’s bodies and why the panic about gender is disturbing" (Janice Turner, The Times, 11 January 2018) Roots of Western Culture (Herman Dooyeweerd)

No4910<![CDATA[Low-level Creeds and Worldview (Tom Price)]]><![CDATA[Worldviews influence and shape our beliefs and the way we see the world, but what influences these worldviews themselves? This lecture will explore how deeper engagement with low-level creeds—our deeply held, often repeated, mantra-like confessions or beliefs—should be considered part of our worldview discussions. A lecture given by Tom Price (Senior Tutor at The Oxford Centre for Christian Apologetics) at English L'Abri on 1st December, 2017. For more information, visit for more L'Abri lectures, visit the L'Abri Ideas Library. ]]><![CDATA[L'Abri Fellowship]]>Tue, 09 Jan 2018 12:02:45 GMT

Worldviews influence and shape our beliefs and the way we see the world, but what influences these worldviews themselves? This lecture will explore how deeper engagement with low-level creeds—our deeply held, often repeated, mantra-like confessions or beliefs—should be considered part of our worldview discussions. A lecture given by Tom Price (Senior Tutor at The Oxford Centre for Christian Apologetics) at English L'Abri on 1st December, 2017. For more information, visit for more L'Abri lectures, visit the L'Abri Ideas Library.

No5633<![CDATA[The Integrated Imagination (Andrew Peterson)]]><![CDATA[Many Christians live with a hard divide between the sacred and the secular, a type of imaginational segregation that isolates Christianity from the rest of human experience. As a pastor’s kid who always loved fairy tales and fantasy novels, Andrew shares how story, art, and music were the breadcrumbs that led him to faith in Christ and to a sacramental view of a world ‘charged with the grandeur of God’ (G.M. Hopkins). A lecture given by Andrew Peterson at English L'Abri on 17 November, 2017. Andrew Peterson is a songwriter, author, and founder of The Rabbit Room, a community of songwriters, authors, and artists interested in storytelling, faith, and fellowship. For more information, visit for more L'Abri lectures, visit the L'Abri Ideas Library. ]]><![CDATA[L'Abri Fellowship]]>Sun, 19 Nov 2017 17:29:01 GMT

Many Christians live with a hard divide between the sacred and the secular, a type of imaginational segregation that isolates Christianity from the rest of human experience. As a pastor’s kid who always loved fairy tales and fantasy novels, Andrew shares how story, art, and music were the breadcrumbs that led him to faith in Christ and to a sacramental view of a world ‘charged with the grandeur of God’ (G.M. Hopkins). A lecture given by Andrew Peterson at English L'Abri on 17 November, 2017. Andrew Peterson is a songwriter, author, and founder of The Rabbit Room, a community of songwriters, authors, and artists interested in storytelling, faith, and fellowship. For more information, visit for more L'Abri lectures, visit the L'Abri Ideas Library.

No5282<![CDATA[What Has Wittenberg to Do with Florence? The Birth of Modern Times (Josué Reichow)]]><![CDATA[After five centuries of history, the principles and beliefs of the Protestant Reformation and the Renaissance are still at work in our society. This lecture looks back to these movements to discern their similarities, tensions, and contribution to the birth of modernity. A lecture given by Josué Reichow (L'Abri Worker) at English L'Abri on 10 November, 2017. For more information, visit for more L'Abri lectures, visit the L'Abri Ideas Library. ]]><![CDATA[L'Abri Fellowship]]>Mon, 13 Nov 2017 11:29:39 GMT

After five centuries of history, the principles and beliefs of the Protestant Reformation and the Renaissance are still at work in our society. This lecture looks back to these movements to discern their similarities, tensions, and contribution to the birth of modernity. A lecture given by Josué Reichow (L'Abri Worker) at English L'Abri on 10 November, 2017. For more information, visit for more L'Abri lectures, visit the L'Abri Ideas Library.

No5360<![CDATA[Evangelicalism, Whiteness, and the Age of Trump (Jessamin Birdsall)]]><![CDATA[Drawing on research conducted in a small town in the American Midwest to explore some of the motivations and meanings attached to white evangelical support for Donald Trump, this lecture reflects on the puzzling relationships between religion, race, and politics that have unfolded in the United States over the last eighteen months. A lecture given by Jessamin Birdsall (PhD candidate, Princeton University) at English L'Abri on 3 November, 2017. For more information, visit and for more L'Abri lectures, visit the L'Abri Ideas Library. For further study: "White Evangelicals for Trump" (Jessamin Birdsall) Evangelicalism in Modern Britain: A History from the 1730s to the 1980s (David Bebbington) ]]><![CDATA[L'Abri Fellowship]]>Mon, 06 Nov 2017 13:09:11 GMT

Drawing on research conducted in a small town in the American Midwest to explore some of the motivations and meanings attached to white evangelical support for Donald Trump, this lecture reflects on the puzzling relationships between religion, race, and politics that have unfolded in the United States over the last eighteen months. A lecture given by Jessamin Birdsall (PhD candidate, Princeton University) at English L'Abri on 3 November, 2017. For more information, visit and for more L'Abri lectures, visit the L'Abri Ideas Library. For further study: "White Evangelicals for Trump" (Jessamin Birdsall) Evangelicalism in Modern Britain: A History from the 1730s to the 1980s (David Bebbington)

No5621<![CDATA[What Does it Mean to Be Authentic? (Edith Reitsema)]]><![CDATA[Many voices in our culture extol the value of authenticity. But what does it mean to be authentic? Does it mean being real, genuine, not fake—completely honest? Or is our current use of the word closer to the Latin root author, i.e. to be your own author, true to yourself no matter what? This lecture explores these definitions of authenticity as a way of approaching an even bigger question: Is God ‘I am’ or am I? A lecture given by Edith Reitsema (L'Abri Worker) at English L'Abri on 27 October, 2017. For more information, visit and for more L'Abri lectures, visit the L'Abri Ideas Library. ]]><![CDATA[L'Abri Fellowship]]>Mon, 30 Oct 2017 13:27:51 GMT

Many voices in our culture extol the value of authenticity. But what does it mean to be authentic? Does it mean being real, genuine, not fake—completely honest? Or is our current use of the word closer to the Latin root author, i.e. to be your own author, true to yourself no matter what? This lecture explores these definitions of authenticity as a way of approaching an even bigger question: Is God ‘I am’ or am I? A lecture given by Edith Reitsema (L'Abri Worker) at English L'Abri on 27 October, 2017. For more information, visit and for more L'Abri lectures, visit the L'Abri Ideas Library.

No5005<![CDATA[A Quiet Revolution: The Impact of the Reformation on Church Music (Judy Raines)]]><![CDATA[A look at how the theology of Martin Luther and John Calvin effected significant changes in the musical forms of the medieval church. A lecture given by Judy Raines at English L'Abri on 21 October, 2017. For more information, visit and for more L'Abri lectures, visit the L'Abri Ideas Library. ]]><![CDATA[L'Abri Fellowship]]>Sat, 21 Oct 2017 14:02:02 GMT

A look at how the theology of Martin Luther and John Calvin effected significant changes in the musical forms of the medieval church. A lecture given by Judy Raines at English L'Abri on 21 October, 2017. For more information, visit and for more L'Abri lectures, visit the L'Abri Ideas Library.

No5143<![CDATA[How Technology Behaves - Part 1 (Andy Patton)]]><![CDATA[Many today feel uncertain about how to respond to a changing technological landscape. If neither technophobia nor technophoria are adequate responses, can we chart a middle way? This lecture outlines a few rules for what technology is, how it behaves, what we should do about it, and proposes a response that avoids the double dangers of fear and utopianism. The second part of this series is now available. A lecture given by Andy Patton (L'Abri Worker) at English L'Abri on 18 October, 2017. For more information, visit and for more L'Abri lectures, visit the L'Abri Ideas Library. For further reading: What Technology Wants (Kevin Kelly) Understanding Media (Marshall McLuhan) Technopoly (Neil Postman) The Technological Society (Jacques Ellul) The Singularity Is Near (Ray Kurzweil) ]]><![CDATA[L'Abri Fellowship]]>Wed, 18 Oct 2017 18:39:25 GMT

Many today feel uncertain about how to respond to a changing technological landscape. If neither technophobia nor technophoria are adequate responses, can we chart a middle way? This lecture outlines a few rules for what technology is, how it behaves, what we should do about it, and proposes a response that avoids the double dangers of fear and utopianism. The second part of this series is now available. A lecture given by Andy Patton (L'Abri Worker) at English L'Abri on 18 October, 2017. For more information, visit and for more L'Abri lectures, visit the L'Abri Ideas Library. For further reading: What Technology Wants (Kevin Kelly) Understanding Media (Marshall McLuhan) Technopoly (Neil Postman) The Technological Society (Jacques Ellul) The Singularity Is Near (Ray Kurzweil)

No6319<![CDATA[Modern Art and the Life of a Culture (Jonathan Anderson)]]><![CDATA[In their recent book Modern Art and the Life of a Culture, Jonathan Anderson and William Dyrness offer a rereading of the history of modern art, including such important artists as Van Gogh, Kandinsky, Warhol, and others. In the book and this lecture, Anderson explores episodes in modern art history that are more shaped by religious contexts and theological concerns than they are usually given credit for, questioning the narrative Hans Rookmaaker offered in his influential book, Modern Art and the Death of a Culture (1970). A lecture given by Jonathan Anderson (Assosciate Professor of Art, Biola University, USA) at English L'Abri on 13 October, 2017. For more information, visit and for more L'Abri lectures, visit the L'Abri Ideas Library. ]]><![CDATA[L'Abri Fellowship]]>Mon, 16 Oct 2017 10:34:22 GMT

In their recent book Modern Art and the Life of a Culture, Jonathan Anderson and William Dyrness offer a rereading of the history of modern art, including such important artists as Van Gogh, Kandinsky, Warhol, and others. In the book and this lecture, Anderson explores episodes in modern art history that are more shaped by religious contexts and theological concerns than they are usually given credit for, questioning the narrative Hans Rookmaaker offered in his influential book, Modern Art and the Death of a Culture (1970). A lecture given by Jonathan Anderson (Assosciate Professor of Art, Biola University, USA) at English L'Abri on 13 October, 2017. For more information, visit and for more L'Abri lectures, visit the L'Abri Ideas Library.

No5415<![CDATA[Calvin and the Visual Arts: Pure Vision or Blind Spot? (Adrienne Chaplin)]]><![CDATA[The sixteenth-century reformer John Calvin is not generally know for his enthusiasm for the visual arts. Yet he widely praised the arts in general as good gifts of God's creation for the common good and enjoyment of all. In this 500th anniversary year of the Reformation, this lecture takes a closer look at Calvin's comments on the arts in his Institutes of the Christian Religion and considers what may still be of value. A lecture given by Adrienne Chaplin (Independent Scholar and Visiting Research Fellow, King's College London) at English L'Abri on 6 October, 2017. For more information, visit and for more L'Abri lectures, visit the L'Abri Ideas Library. ]]><![CDATA[L'Abri Fellowship]]>Sat, 07 Oct 2017 07:57:29 GMT

The sixteenth-century reformer John Calvin is not generally know for his enthusiasm for the visual arts. Yet he widely praised the arts in general as good gifts of God's creation for the common good and enjoyment of all. In this 500th anniversary year of the Reformation, this lecture takes a closer look at Calvin's comments on the arts in his Institutes of the Christian Religion and considers what may still be of value. A lecture given by Adrienne Chaplin (Independent Scholar and Visiting Research Fellow, King's College London) at English L'Abri on 6 October, 2017. For more information, visit and for more L'Abri lectures, visit the L'Abri Ideas Library.

No5284<![CDATA[Life, Death, and the Meaning of Time: A Journey Through T. S. Eliot's Four Quartets (Andy Patton)]]><![CDATA[T. S. Eliot is among the greatest poets of the twentieth century. However, his masterpiece The Four Quartets, remains an evocative mystery to many readers. In The Four Quartets we see a Christian poet at the height of his maturity. It is a meditation on time, suffering, modernity, God, the human experience, and much more that rewards an evening's study and a lifetime's reading. A lecture given by Andy Patton (L'Abri Worker) at English L'Abri on 29 September, 2017. For more information, visit and for more L'Abri lectures, visit the L'Abri Ideas Library. ]]><![CDATA[L'Abri Fellowship]]>Fri, 29 Sep 2017 20:56:36 GMT

T. S. Eliot is among the greatest poets of the twentieth century. However, his masterpiece The Four Quartets, remains an evocative mystery to many readers. In The Four Quartets we see a Christian poet at the height of his maturity. It is a meditation on time, suffering, modernity, God, the human experience, and much more that rewards an evening's study and a lifetime's reading. A lecture given by Andy Patton (L'Abri Worker) at English L'Abri on 29 September, 2017. For more information, visit and for more L'Abri lectures, visit the L'Abri Ideas Library.

No4257<![CDATA[Is Reality Socially Created? (Jim Paul)]]><![CDATA[Contemporary sociologists argue that the way we see the world is socially created within cultures. “Girls wear pink and boys wear blue,” for example, is not a universal law but something created within twentieth-century Western culture through discourse around what it means to be male and female. If reality is socially created, then it can be recreated. But is this true of all of reality? Can gender, religion, morality, and even our own humanness be shaped and reshaped as we choose? A lecture given by Jim Paul (L'Abri Worker) at English L'Abri on 22 September, 2017. For more information, visit for more L'Abri lectures, visit the L'Abri Ideas Library. For further reading: The Social Construction of Reality (Peter Berger and Thomas Luckmann) The Abolition of Man (C.S. Lewis) ]]><![CDATA[L'Abri Fellowship]]>Sat, 23 Sep 2017 11:25:20 GMT

Contemporary sociologists argue that the way we see the world is socially created within cultures. “Girls wear pink and boys wear blue,” for example, is not a universal law but something created within twentieth-century Western culture through discourse around what it means to be male and female. If reality is socially created, then it can be recreated. But is this true of all of reality? Can gender, religion, morality, and even our own humanness be shaped and reshaped as we choose? A lecture given by Jim Paul (L'Abri Worker) at English L'Abri on 22 September, 2017. For more information, visit for more L'Abri lectures, visit the L'Abri Ideas Library. For further reading: The Social Construction of Reality (Peter Berger and Thomas Luckmann) The Abolition of Man (C.S. Lewis)

No5602<![CDATA[How to Read the Bible: Luke 7-8 (Marsh Moyle)]]><![CDATA[The third and final talk from our summer day conference on the Bible. Printed materials from the event are available at this link. This is a partial recording of a longer, interactive session. For further study, visit Myrtlefield House for a very useful source for ideas about reading the Bible as literature. ]]><![CDATA[L'Abri Fellowship]]>Mon, 28 Aug 2017 09:30:00 GMT

The third and final talk from our summer day conference on the Bible. Printed materials from the event are available at this link. This is a partial recording of a longer, interactive session. For further study, visit Myrtlefield House for a very useful source for ideas about reading the Bible as literature.

No3179<![CDATA[How Did We Get the Bible? (Andy Patton)]]><![CDATA[The second of three talks from our summer day conference on the Bible. Printed materials from the event are available at this link. For further study: Jesus and the Eyewitnesses (Richard Bauckham) How We Got the Bible (Neil R. Lightfoot) The New Testament Documents: Are They Reliable? (F. F. Bruce) The Historical Reliability of the Gospels (Craig Blomberg) ]]><![CDATA[L'Abri Fellowship]]>Mon, 21 Aug 2017 09:06:00 GMT

The second of three talks from our summer day conference on the Bible. Printed materials from the event are available at this link. For further study: Jesus and the Eyewitnesses (Richard Bauckham) How We Got the Bible (Neil R. Lightfoot) The New Testament Documents: Are They Reliable? (F. F. Bruce) The Historical Reliability of the Gospels (Craig Blomberg)

No4977<![CDATA[What is the Bible? (Phillip Johnston)]]><![CDATA[The first of three talks from our summer day conference on the Bible. Printed materials from the event are available at this link. For further study: Scripture and the Authority of God (N.T. Wright) Words of Life: Scripture as the Living and Active Word of God (Timothy Ward) Knowing Jesus Through the Old Testament (Christopher J.H. Wright) Additionally, you can find the two videos from The Bible Project played during this talk at the links below: "What is the Bible?" "The Story of the Bible" ]]><![CDATA[L'Abri Fellowship]]>Mon, 14 Aug 2017 08:50:00 GMT

The first of three talks from our summer day conference on the Bible. Printed materials from the event are available at this link. For further study: Scripture and the Authority of God (N.T. Wright) Words of Life: Scripture as the Living and Active Word of God (Timothy Ward) Knowing Jesus Through the Old Testament (Christopher J.H. Wright) Additionally, you can find the two videos from The Bible Project played during this talk at the links below: "What is the Bible?" "The Story of the Bible"

No5206<![CDATA[How Should We Then Love? Ordering Desire in the Immanent Frame (Phillip Johnston)]]><![CDATA[Saint Augustine once wrote, 'For when we ask whether someone is a good man, we are not asking what he believes, or hopes, but what he loves.’ This lecture explores the primacy of love in the Christian life by encouraging the cultivation of a love for God which deepens our enjoyment of God’s good gifts. A lecture given by Phillip Johnston (L'Abri Worker) at English L'Abri on 4 August, 2017. For more information, visit for more L'Abri lectures, visit the L'Abri Ideas Library. For further reading: You Are What You Love: The Spiritual Power of Habit (James K.A. Smith) Making Sense of God: An Invitation to the Sceptical (Tim Keller), particularly the fourth chapter, ‘A Satisfaction That is Not Based on Circumstances’ The Confessions (St. Augustine) ’The Making of Modernity’ (Andrew Fellows), available at the L'Abri Ideas Library ]]><![CDATA[L'Abri Fellowship]]>Sat, 05 Aug 2017 08:07:01 GMT

Saint Augustine once wrote, 'For when we ask whether someone is a good man, we are not asking what he believes, or hopes, but what he loves.’ This lecture explores the primacy of love in the Christian life by encouraging the cultivation of a love for God which deepens our enjoyment of God’s good gifts. A lecture given by Phillip Johnston (L'Abri Worker) at English L'Abri on 4 August, 2017. For more information, visit for more L'Abri lectures, visit the L'Abri Ideas Library. For further reading: You Are What You Love: The Spiritual Power of Habit (James K.A. Smith) Making Sense of God: An Invitation to the Sceptical (Tim Keller), particularly the fourth chapter, ‘A Satisfaction That is Not Based on Circumstances’ The Confessions (St. Augustine) ’The Making of Modernity’ (Andrew Fellows), available at the L'Abri Ideas Library

No5105<![CDATA[The Era of Choice (Lili Reichow)]]><![CDATA[The present time is filled with an incredible amount of options in practically every aspect of life. Our job is to choose—to exercise our abilities to understand, analyse, and decide. This lecture discusses how we arrived at a time of such abundant choice and explores the consequences of this reality for our daily lives. A lecture given by Lili Reichow (L'Abri Worker) at English L'Abri on 30 July, 2017. For more information, visit for more L'Abri lectures, visit the L'Abri Ideas Library. For further reading: The Tyranny of Choice (Renata Salecl) The Paradox of Choice (Barry Schwartz) ]]><![CDATA[L'Abri Fellowship]]>Tue, 01 Aug 2017 12:56:22 GMT

The present time is filled with an incredible amount of options in practically every aspect of life. Our job is to choose—to exercise our abilities to understand, analyse, and decide. This lecture discusses how we arrived at a time of such abundant choice and explores the consequences of this reality for our daily lives. A lecture given by Lili Reichow (L'Abri Worker) at English L'Abri on 30 July, 2017. For more information, visit for more L'Abri lectures, visit the L'Abri Ideas Library. For further reading: The Tyranny of Choice (Renata Salecl) The Paradox of Choice (Barry Schwartz)

No5331<![CDATA[Why Do People Want to Die? A Psychological Conversation About Suicide and Trauma (Tom Smiley)]]><![CDATA[The modern world is desperate to live and to die. Medicine has never been more able to prolong and protect life, yet many are equally determined to end their lives. This lecture explores the effects of psychological trauma on a person’s relationship to life and death, the place of shame in suicide and self-harm, and what can be done to help those who are suffering. A lecture given by Tom Smiley (Clinical Psychologist) at English L'Abri on 21 July, 2017. For more information, visit for more L'Abri lectures, visit the L'Abri Ideas Library. ]]><![CDATA[L'Abri Fellowship]]>Thu, 27 Jul 2017 10:35:00 GMT

The modern world is desperate to live and to die. Medicine has never been more able to prolong and protect life, yet many are equally determined to end their lives. This lecture explores the effects of psychological trauma on a person’s relationship to life and death, the place of shame in suicide and self-harm, and what can be done to help those who are suffering. A lecture given by Tom Smiley (Clinical Psychologist) at English L'Abri on 21 July, 2017. For more information, visit for more L'Abri lectures, visit the L'Abri Ideas Library.

No6496<![CDATA['Let Justice Roll Down': Martin Luther King Jr. and the Black Lives Matter Movement (Mary McCampbell)]]><![CDATA[This lecture focuses on the circumstances that gave rise to the #BlackLivesMatter movement, as well as the American evangelical church’s response to both the racial climate of the USA and the Black Lives Matter movement. A lecture given by Mary McCampbell (Assosciate Professor of Humanities, Lee University, USA) at English L'Abri on 14 July, 2017. For more information, visit for more L'Abri lectures, visit the L'Abri Ideas Library. ]]><![CDATA[L'Abri Fellowship]]>Sat, 15 Jul 2017 12:24:00 GMT

This lecture focuses on the circumstances that gave rise to the #BlackLivesMatter movement, as well as the American evangelical church’s response to both the racial climate of the USA and the Black Lives Matter movement. A lecture given by Mary McCampbell (Assosciate Professor of Humanities, Lee University, USA) at English L'Abri on 14 July, 2017. For more information, visit for more L'Abri lectures, visit the L'Abri Ideas Library.

No6048<![CDATA[Herman Dooyeweerd: A Christian Philosopher - Part 2 (Josué Reichow)]]><![CDATA[Having previously explored the Dutch Christian philosopher Herman Dooyeweerd's context, critique of modernity, and philosophical anthropology, this lecture discusses his understanding of Western cultural development with a particular focus on his unique philosophy of history and concept of the religious ground motive. A lecture given by Josué Reichow (L'Abri Worker) at English L'Abri on 7 July, 2017. For more information, visit for more L'Abri lectures, visit the L'Abri Ideas Library. ]]><![CDATA[L'Abri Fellowship]]>Mon, 10 Jul 2017 11:05:42 GMT

Having previously explored the Dutch Christian philosopher Herman Dooyeweerd's context, critique of modernity, and philosophical anthropology, this lecture discusses his understanding of Western cultural development with a particular focus on his unique philosophy of history and concept of the religious ground motive. A lecture given by Josué Reichow (L'Abri Worker) at English L'Abri on 7 July, 2017. For more information, visit for more L'Abri lectures, visit the L'Abri Ideas Library.

No5221<![CDATA[How Does the Bible Speak About God's Action in the World? (C. John "Jack" Collins)]]><![CDATA[The philosopher Alvin Plantinga recently wrote, “There is superficial conflict but deep concord between science and theistic religion, but superficial concord and deep conflict between science and naturalism.” Both Christianity and Judaism rely on Biblical passages to describe the way God acts in the world. This lecture develops an approach to reading these texts that is generally in line with Plantinga’s insight. A lecture given by C. John "Jack" Collins at English L'Abri on 30 June, 2017. Jack Collins is Professor of Old Testament at Covenant Theological Seminary in St. Louis, Missiouri (USA). For further reading: The God of Miracles: An Exegetical Examination of God's Action in the World (C. John Collins) Where the Conflict Really Lies: Science, Religion, and Naturalism (Alvin Plantinga) ]]><![CDATA[L'Abri Fellowship]]>Sat, 01 Jul 2017 20:20:20 GMT

The philosopher Alvin Plantinga recently wrote, “There is superficial conflict but deep concord between science and theistic religion, but superficial concord and deep conflict between science and naturalism.” Both Christianity and Judaism rely on Biblical passages to describe the way God acts in the world. This lecture develops an approach to reading these texts that is generally in line with Plantinga’s insight. A lecture given by C. John "Jack" Collins at English L'Abri on 30 June, 2017. Jack Collins is Professor of Old Testament at Covenant Theological Seminary in St. Louis, Missiouri (USA). For further reading: The God of Miracles: An Exegetical Examination of God's Action in the World (C. John Collins) Where the Conflict Really Lies: Science, Religion, and Naturalism (Alvin Plantinga)

No5761<![CDATA[How Technology Behaves: A Christian Response - Part 2 (Andy Patton)]]><![CDATA[Many today feel uncertain about how to respond to a changing technological landscape. Having previously outlined a few rules for what technology is and how it behaves, this lecture explores what we should do about it and proposes a response that avoids the double dangers of fear and utopianism. The first part of this series is now available. A lecture given by Andy Patton (L'Abri Worker) at English L'Abri on 23 June, 2017. For more information, visit and for more L'Abri lectures, visit the L'Abri Ideas Library. For further reading: What Technology Wants (Kevin Kelly) Reclaiming Conversation (Sherry Turkle) ]]><![CDATA[L'Abri Fellowship]]>Sat, 24 Jun 2017 09:30:13 GMT

Many today feel uncertain about how to respond to a changing technological landscape. Having previously outlined a few rules for what technology is and how it behaves, this lecture explores what we should do about it and proposes a response that avoids the double dangers of fear and utopianism. The first part of this series is now available. A lecture given by Andy Patton (L'Abri Worker) at English L'Abri on 23 June, 2017. For more information, visit and for more L'Abri lectures, visit the L'Abri Ideas Library. For further reading: What Technology Wants (Kevin Kelly) Reclaiming Conversation (Sherry Turkle)

No4969<![CDATA[The Cloud of Knowing (Ellis Potter)]]><![CDATA[The Bible mentions a cloud in many places. Sometimes it is referred to as a cloud of fire or a cloud of darkness. This lecture explores how we can understand these various cloud events and how we can avoid some major and popular misunderstandings of them. A lecture given by Ellis Potter (Christian minister, missionary, and international lecturer) at English L'Abri on 16 June, 2017. A native Californian now residing in Switzerland, Ellis Potter is a former Buddhist monk who became a Christian under the influence and ministry of Francis Schaeffer. He worked for many years at Swiss L'Abri was the pastor of the Basel Christian Fellowship for ten years. With his wife, Mary, he founded Eastern European Renewal (EER), an evangelical mission to Central and Eastern European countries. For more information, visit and for more L'Abri lectures, visit the L'Abri Ideas Library. ]]><![CDATA[L'Abri Fellowship]]>Sat, 17 Jun 2017 11:14:19 GMT

The Bible mentions a cloud in many places. Sometimes it is referred to as a cloud of fire or a cloud of darkness. This lecture explores how we can understand these various cloud events and how we can avoid some major and popular misunderstandings of them. A lecture given by Ellis Potter (Christian minister, missionary, and international lecturer) at English L'Abri on 16 June, 2017. A native Californian now residing in Switzerland, Ellis Potter is a former Buddhist monk who became a Christian under the influence and ministry of Francis Schaeffer. He worked for many years at Swiss L'Abri was the pastor of the Basel Christian Fellowship for ten years. With his wife, Mary, he founded Eastern European Renewal (EER), an evangelical mission to Central and Eastern European countries. For more information, visit and for more L'Abri lectures, visit the L'Abri Ideas Library.

No5759<![CDATA[Hollow Gods: Idolatry in Our Post-modern Society (Edith Reitsema)]]><![CDATA[The here and now usually determines the nature of our gods. What has taken place philosophically in our view of knowledge, freedom and language to mould us into our current idols? Serving the god of our times means self-worship. This lecture points to the One who said, “Heaven and Earth shall move with the times, but My words shall not move with the times” (C.S. Lewis on Matthew 24:35). A lecture given by Edith Reitsema (L'Abri Worker) at English L'Abri on 6 June, 2017. For more information, visit and for more L'Abri lectures, visit the L'Abri Ideas Library. ]]><![CDATA[L'Abri Fellowship]]>Sat, 10 Jun 2017 10:01:17 GMT

The here and now usually determines the nature of our gods. What has taken place philosophically in our view of knowledge, freedom and language to mould us into our current idols? Serving the god of our times means self-worship. This lecture points to the One who said, “Heaven and Earth shall move with the times, but My words shall not move with the times” (C.S. Lewis on Matthew 24:35). A lecture given by Edith Reitsema (L'Abri Worker) at English L'Abri on 6 June, 2017. For more information, visit and for more L'Abri lectures, visit the L'Abri Ideas Library.

No5161<![CDATA[Smuggling Jesus Back Into the Church: A Reformation Manifesto (Andrew Fellows)]]><![CDATA[When the integrity of Christianity becomes eroded and compromised, reformation is an inevitability. In light of the 500-year anniversary of the Protestant Reformation, this talk explores why the history of the church follows this pattern and imagines what reformation might look like today. A lecture given by Andrew Fellows at English L'Abri on 2 June, 2017. Andrew is director of Christian Heritage, a study centre community serving Cambridge. Andrew was the former chairman of L'Abri International Fellowship and director of English L'Abri from 1995-2015. ]]><![CDATA[L'Abri Fellowship]]>Sat, 03 Jun 2017 08:40:12 GMT

When the integrity of Christianity becomes eroded and compromised, reformation is an inevitability. In light of the 500-year anniversary of the Protestant Reformation, this talk explores why the history of the church follows this pattern and imagines what reformation might look like today. A lecture given by Andrew Fellows at English L'Abri on 2 June, 2017. Andrew is director of Christian Heritage, a study centre community serving Cambridge. Andrew was the former chairman of L'Abri International Fellowship and director of English L'Abri from 1995-2015.

No5835<![CDATA[Baptism and the Body (Alastair Roberts)]]><![CDATA[Christians, even those who say much about ‘incarnational’ faith, can say surprisingly little about the way that God claims our bodies. This lecture explores the intensely bodily character of baptism as a pledge and seal that anticipates future resurrection, adoption, and the redemption of our bodies. A lecture given by Alastair Roberts (PhD, Durham University) at English L'Abri on 26 May, 2017. Alastair writes in the areas of biblical theology and ethics, but frequently trespasses beyond these bounds. He participates in the weekly Mere Fidelity podcast, blogs at Alastair’s Adversaria, and tweets at @zugzwanged. ]]><![CDATA[L'Abri Fellowship]]>Fri, 26 May 2017 08:26:00 GMT

Christians, even those who say much about ‘incarnational’ faith, can say surprisingly little about the way that God claims our bodies. This lecture explores the intensely bodily character of baptism as a pledge and seal that anticipates future resurrection, adoption, and the redemption of our bodies. A lecture given by Alastair Roberts (PhD, Durham University) at English L'Abri on 26 May, 2017. Alastair writes in the areas of biblical theology and ethics, but frequently trespasses beyond these bounds. He participates in the weekly Mere Fidelity podcast, blogs at Alastair’s Adversaria, and tweets at @zugzwanged.

No5702<![CDATA['Those Human Nests': Vincent Van Gogh's Search for Home (Lindsey Patton)]]><![CDATA[This lecture discusses the life and work of Dutch artist Vincent van Gogh as seen through the lens of his deep longing—expressed in his letters and art—for a place to call home. ]]><![CDATA[L'Abri Fellowship]]>Fri, 19 May 2017 07:57:00 GMT

This lecture discusses the life and work of Dutch artist Vincent van Gogh as seen through the lens of his deep longing—expressed in his letters and art—for a place to call home.

No5622

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