The UtG Podcast

In the opening episode, Joel Lacey and Alasdair MacPherson discuss the widespread issue of pornography and its grip on today’s society. They identify that sexual desires in the right context are a good thing, as part of God’s creation. However, in the wrong context, they are sinful. They investigate the scriptural perspective of lust and habitual sin, describing impurity as an idolatry issue that needs to be addressed at the heart-level, not merely with external measures; at the heart of the problem is the problem of the heart.Explore at: www.understandingthegospel.orgSocials:Facebook | Instagram | YouTube

Welcome to UtG Voices – the monthly podcast from UtG, where we speak to different contributors, working behind the scenes to bring you the latest UtG content.In this episode, we begin by speaking Naomi Pratt about her series on the Biblical Pattern – looking at how the Exodus story applies to our lives.  In part 2, we’ll be speaking to Keri Kaye about her role in the Titus 2 part of the UtG project.Join us, as we get a deeper look into the work, the voices, and the content, shaping UtG.Check out:https://understandingthegospel.org/by-women-for-womenhttps://understandingthegospel.org/by-women-for-women/home-permanent-or-transienthttps://understandingthegospel.org/by-women-for-women/living-the-exodus-story-1-locating-yourselfhttps://understandingthegospel.org/by-women-for-women/living-the-exodus-story-2-suffering-in-egyptExplore at: www.understandingthegospel.orgSocials:Facebook | Instagram | YouTube

What happens when what you’re building doesn’t look as impressive as what came before?In this second and final episode of Consider your Ways, Josh Kaye & Iain Jamieson explore Haggai chapter 2 and its powerful lesson about perspective . The people rebuilding the temple in Jerusalem were discouraged because the new temple seemed small and unimpressive compared to Solomon’s magnificent one. Their disappointment threatened to drain their motivation and overshadow the progress they were making. Through the prophet Haggai, God challenges their perspective.This conversation looks at:•⁠  ⁠The importance of looking back, but the danger of nostalgia•⁠  ⁠Why the Bible calls us to fix our eyes on Christ in the circumstances of life•⁠  ⁠How different perspectives can lead to disunity in the church•⁠  ⁠How God’s future purposes in Christ should shape our perspective Join us for a challenging conversation, as we respond to God’s call to consider our ways.Explore at: www.understandingthegospel.orgSocials:Facebook | Instagram | YouTube

In this first episode of our mini-series Consider Your Ways, Josh Kaye & Iain Jamieson dive into Haggai chapter 1, a short but powerful passage where God confronts His people about their priorities. While they focused on building comfortable homes for themselves, the temple lay in ruins. Their response? “The time has not yet come…” A familiar phrase that often hides procrastination.This conversation looks at:•⁠  ⁠Why procrastination is often a spiritual issue, not just a productivity problem•⁠  ⁠What happens when we put personal comfort ahead of God’s purposes•⁠  ⁠How misplaced priorities can lead to dissatisfaction•⁠  ⁠The powerful moment when the people finally respond and begin the workJoin us for a challenging conversation, as we respond to God’s call to consider our ways.Explore at: www.understandingthegospel.orgSocials:Facebook | Instagram | YouTube

How does the Spirit reshape our inner lives and lead us into true freedom?In the final episode, Joel and David reflect on the selfward fruit of faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. They discuss what we really mean by “selfward” why faithfulness is so foundational, and how gentleness can display both strength and humility. The conversation also tackles the importance of self-control in the Christian walk, the difference between Spirit-led self-control and sheer willpower, and why this fruit leads not to restriction, but to genuine freedom.Explore at: www.understandingthegospel.orgSocials:Facebook | Instagram | YouTube

Welcome to UtG Voices – the monthly podcast from UtG, where we speak to different contributors, working behind the scenes to bring you the latest UtG content.In this episode, we begin by speaking to Iain Jamieson about his Sermon on the Mount series and his role in the editing team at UtG.  In part 2, we’ll be speaking to Joel Lacey about his journey into podcasting, the recent series on “The Fruit of the Spirit” and his new series due to be launched next week.  Join us, as we get a deeper look into the work, the voices, and the content, shaping UtG.Check out:https://understandingthegospel.org/spiritual-growth/living-as-a-christian/how-to-live-1-the-recipe-for-blessing-matthew-51-12-part-1/https://understandingthegospel.org/the-utg-podcast/understanding-eternal-justice-with-iain-jamieson/https://understandingthegospel.org/the-utg-podcast/the-fruit-of-the-spirit-overview-ep-1/https://understandingthegospel.org/the-utg-podcast/biblical-leadership/Explore at: www.understandingthegospel.orgSocials:Facebook | Instagram | YouTube

What should the fruit of the Spirit look like in our everyday interactions with people?Turning outward, Joel and David explore the manward fruit of patience, kindness, andgoodness. They discuss why these qualities are essential in our relationships, how they differfrom one another, and the real-life situations where they are most tested. Drawing fromScripture and personal experience, they consider biblical examples of patience, the differencebetween kindness and mere niceness, and how God’s own goodness shapes what this fruitlooks like in practice.Explore at: www.understandingthegospel.orgSocials:Facebook | Instagram | YouTube

How does our relationship with God shape the fruit that grows in our lives?This episode focuses on the Godward fruit of love, joy, and peace. Joel and David unpack why love comes first, what makes agape love distinct, and how biblical joy differs from fleeting happiness. They also discuss what it means to rejoice in the Lord—especially in seasons of suffering—and how reconciliation with God leads to a deep, unifying peace that transforms both our walk with Him and our relationships with others.Explore at: www.understandingthegospel.orgSocials:Facebook | Instagram | YouTube

What did Paul really mean by “the fruit of the Spirit,” and why does it matter for everyday Christian life?In this opening episode, Joel Lacey and David Montgomery set the scene for Paul’s teaching on the fruit of the Spirit in Galatians 5. They explore the contrast between the works of the flesh and the Spirit’s fruit, why Paul uses the imagery of fruit, and why he speaks of one unified “fruit” rather than many separate virtues. Along the way, they tackle the difference between good morals and genuine spiritual fruit, the balance between the Spirit’s power and our responsibility, and why all of this ultimately reflects the character of the Lord Jesus Himself.Explore at: www.understandingthegospel.orgSocials:Facebook | Instagram | YouTube

Welcome to UtG Voices with Josh Kaye – the monthly podcast from UtG, where we speak to different contributors, working behind the scenes to bring you the latest UtG content. In this January episode, we’re joined by Alasdair MacPherson to reflect on some of the upcoming UtG content for 2026.  Join us, as we get a deeper look into the work, the voices, and the content, shaping UtG.Explore at: www.understandingthegospel.orgSocials:Facebook | Instagram | YouTube

Welcome to UtG Voices with Josh Kaye – the monthly podcast from UtG, where we speak to different contributors, working behind the scenes to bring you the latest UtG content.   In this December episode, we’re joined by Stephen Mullan & Violet McLatchie to reflect on some of the Christmas content coming from UtG. Stephen joins us to share about his work in video production while in the second half of the episode, Violet shares about her role and some of the Christmas articles coming from the Titus 2 team.   Join us, as we get a deeper look into the work, the voices, and the content, shaping UtG.   Check out:   Christmas is about Christ https://understandingthegospel.org/explore-the-gospel/short-videos/christmas-is-about-christ-dont-miss-him/ For me to Live https://understandingthegospel.org/by-women-for-women/for-me-to-live-is-_____________/   Elizabeth https://understandingthegospel.org/by-women-for-women/elizabeth-a-godly-encourager/ Explore at: www.understandingthegospel.org Socials: Facebook | Instagram | YouTube

In this fourth and final episode host Alistair MacPherson and guest Keith Palmer wrap up their series on OCD by taking a closer look at the nature of introspection. Why does OCD drive people into endless self-analysis, and how does that differ from the heart-examining reflection the Bible encourages? In this episode, the two discuss the contrast between introspection rooted in the gospel and introspection rooted in fear and shame. They also offer practical insight into how someone can move from unhealthy, guilt-producing self-examination toward a form of reflection that brings clarity, comfort, and spiritual growth. For more information about life issues such as OCD please check out www.biblicalsoulcare.co.uk Explore at: www.understandingthegospel.org Socials: Facebook | Instagram | YouTube

In this third episode of the UTG Podcast, guest Keith Palmer joins Alasdair MacPherson to explore the deep heart issues at the center of Obsessive–Compulsive Disorder—especially the longing for certainty.While certainty itself is not wrong, in fact, we all desire it, those struggling with OCD often seek it through their own strength, chasing an unattainable and exhausting level of assurance. Keith and Alasdair unpack how this pursuit becomes a burden and why it can never fully satisfy.Yet the episode doesn’t end with despair. Together they discuss how the gospel speaks powerfully into the struggle, offering a certainty rooted not in personal effort but in God’s unchanging character, His faithful work, and His ongoing involvement in our lives.Join us for a compassionate, theologically rich conversation on how gospel hope meets real-life mental and spiritual battles.For more information about life issues such as OCD please check out www.biblicalsoulcare.co.ukExplore at: www.understandingthegospel.orgSocials:Facebook | Instagram | YouTube

In this episode, we sit down once again with Keith Palmer to explore the struggles many face with OCD, especially the way people respond to intrusive thoughts. We unpack the five common patterns - checkers, washers, organisers, hoarders, and obsessors - and look beneath the surface to the deeper heart issues at play. Together, we consider how Scripture speaks into these struggles and how the gospel of Jesus Christ offers real hope and practical help for those wrestling with these challenges. For more information about life issues such as OCD please check out www.biblicalsoulcare.co.uk Explore at: www.understandingthegospel.org Socials: Facebook | Instagram | YouTube

In this thought-provoking episode, host Alasdair MacPherson sits down with Keith Palmer to explore the intersection of the gospel and Obsessive–Compulsive Disorder. Together they unpack what lies at the heart of the struggle for Christians wrestling with OCD, moving beyond surface-level symptoms to the deeper issues of fear, assurance, conscience, and misplaced hope. Dr. Palmer brings biblical wisdom as he helps listeners distinguish between temporary alleviation and true gospel centred hope. Whether you personally battle OCD or want to better understand and care for those who do, this episode offers a compassionate, Christ-centred look at a challenging issue, with the goal of pointing listeners back to the One who brings true peace to the anxious heart. For more information about life issues such as OCD please check out www.biblicalsoulcare.co.uk Explore at: www.understandingthegospel.org Socials: Facebook | Instagram | YouTube

Welcome to UtG Voices - the monthly podcast from UtG, where we speak to different contributors, working behind the scenes to bring you the latest UtG content. In this episode, we’re joined by two different UtG contributors. We begin by chatting with Douglas Robertson about some of his recently published articles. For the second part of this episode, we’ll be speaking to Paul Coxall, who gives us a preview of the upcoming Doctrines of Grace series. Get a deeper look into the work, the voices, and the content, shaping UtG. Check out: What is the prosperity gospel: https://understandingthegospel.org/explore-the-gospel/short-articles/what-is-the-prosperity-gospel Why can't my good works save me: https://understandingthegospel.org/explore-the-gospel/short-articles/why-can-t-my-good-works-save-me Paul's testimony: https://understandingthegospel.org/personal-stories/all-things-for-good-pauls-story/  www.youtube.com/watch?v=vcRcaIins2U&t=188s Explore at: www.understandingthegospel.org Socials: Facebook | Instagram | YouTube

How Churches Can Respond to the Quiet Revival In the final episode of this series, Alasdair MacPherson and Stephen Grant turn from analysis to action-asking how churches can respond faithfully and creatively to the “quiet revival” emerging across the UK. As more people express curiosity about faith and Scripture, what can Christian communities do to nurture that interest into genuine discipleship? We’ll share practical insights for mission, outreach, and spiritual formation, alongside real examples of churches and ministries already engaging well with seekers and new believers. Together, we’ll consider what helps people move from initial curiosity to a deeper, lived faith-and what pitfalls the Church should avoid along the way. Finally, we’ll explore how each of us can play a part in this movement, both personally and within our local church communities. https://www.biblesociety.org.uk/research/quiet-revival Explore at: www.understandingthegospel.org & Check out: https://www.biblesociety.org.uk/ Socials: Facebook | Instagram | YouTube

Why the Bible Still Matters in a Secular Society In this episode, Alasdair MacPherson and Stephen Grant explore the surprising ways the Bible continues to speak into modern public life. Far from being confined to churches or private devotion, Scripture is emerging as a source of wisdom and hope in a society often described as post-religious. We’ll explore the question of how appropriate it is for Christians, in a largely secular society, to promote biblical perspectives that often stand in contrast to contemporary culture. Along the way, we’ll confront common misconceptions about Bible engagement in Britain today and uncover surprising places where biblical ideas are re-emerging in public discourse. Finally, we’ll reflect on how Christians can enter these conversations with humility, wisdom, and grace. https://www.biblesociety.org.uk/research/quiet-revival Explore at: www.understandingthegospel.org & Check out: https://www.biblesociety.org.uk/ Socials: Facebook | Instagram | YouTube

How Gen Z and Millennials Are Engaging with the BibleIn this episode, we dive into how younger generations are reshaping their relationship with Scripture. Unlike their parents and grandparents, Gen Z and Millennials are turning to Bible apps, social media, and online communities to explore faith in fresh, dynamic ways. But what’s driving this shift? Is it a cultural trend, a personal quest for meaning, or a spiritual awakening in digital spaces?Join Alasdair MacPherson and Stephen Grant as they begin the first of three episodes exploring the insights and implications of the Bible Society’s report, A Quiet Revival.https://www.biblesociety.org.uk/research/quiet-revivalExplore at: www.understandingthegospel.org&Check out: https://www.biblesociety.org.uk/Socials:Facebook | Instagram | YouTube

In this first episode of a short investigative series, Alasdair MacPherson examines the Bible Society’s “A Quiet Revival” report,  a study suggesting a notable rise in church attendance, particularly among younger men. To understand what’s really behind these findings, Alasdair speaks with Dr Rhiannon McAleer, the lead researcher on the project. Together, they unpack the data, explore potential social and spiritual factors driving the trend, and consider what it might signal for the future of faith in the UK. Is this the beginning of a genuine revival or simply a statistical anomaly? https://www.biblesociety.org.uk/research/quiet-revival Explore at: www.understandingthegospel.org & Check out: https://www.biblesociety.org.uk/ Socials: Facebook | Instagram | YouTube