I have found on Alpha that those from an essentially enlightened background feel at home with the parts of the course which appeal to the mind, but often have difficulty in experiencing the Holy Spirit. Others coming from the New Age movement find that rational and historical explanations leave them cold, but at the weekend away they are on more familiar territory in experiencing the Holy Spirit
Nicky GumbelMy position on the issue of homosexuality is no different from the position of the Anglican Church and all the major denominations around the world. I know that it's different from the secular culture in the western world, but it's no different from the teaching of the church globally. We're Christians basically.
Nicky GumbelI'm a Christian. I'm committed to Jesus Christ and I want people to know about Christ, because it's the most wonderful thing. People can say, 'I'll try and give up drugs,' or 'I'll try and live a better life,' but actually, if you're trapped in that lifestyle, you need, I think, some supernatural power to get you out of it. It's not easy to get out of the kind of lifestyles those people are in where all your family are criminals and all your friends are criminals - that is not an easy break to make, and it is a hard thing for a lot of these people.
Nicky GumbelJust because you can't see the air, doesn't mean you stop breathing. And just because you can't see God, doesn't mean you stop believing
Nicky GumbelPrayer for the city is important. For every city in the world, the city should be prayed for. Particularly for London, it is a strategic city for the UK as well as the world, therefore the future of London is significant to the UK, and also the rest of the world.
Nicky GumbelBe thankful for every day. Learn from mistakes. Don't dwell on regrets. Forgive with love. Gain strength from every struggle.
Nicky GumbelThe words of the tongue should have three gatekeepers: Is it true? Is it kind? Is it necessary?
Nicky GumbelI was an atheist and I came to experience a relationship with God which had a radically transforming effect on my life, on my relationships, on every aspect of my life, for the better. So, obviously I hope other people will experience that.
Nicky GumbelThe reason why people give up so fast is because they tend to look at how far they still have to go, instead of how far they have come.
Nicky GumbelLife is short. Make the most of it. Put God first. Love deeply. Forgive quickly. Laugh a lot. Find and live out your purpose.
Nicky GumbelIt is only when we understand the transcendence of God that we see how amazing his immanence is, and what a huge privilege it is to be able to enjoy God's intimate friendship.
Nicky GumbelThe strength of your faith is not measured by the absence of doubt, but by the faithfulness of your life in the face of doubt.
Nicky GumbelThere are many things that were harder to discuss back in the 80's and early 90's than they are now, and this also works the opposite way for other things.
Nicky GumbelWe are very good judges for the mistakes of others, but very good defence lawyers for our own mistakes.
Nicky GumbelOne person can stop a great injustice. One person can be a voice for truth. One person’s kindness can save a life.
Nicky GumbelAnyone can stay true to your face, it's the people who stay true behind your back that really count.
Nicky GumbelDon't be afraid of pressure. Pressure is what transforms a lump of coal into a diamond.
Nicky GumbelIn every generation, the world is changed by a few people, who stand for something, do not fear unpopularity and dare to make a difference.
Nicky GumbelKindness is better and can be more powerful than force. Kind words may unlock an iron door.
Nicky GumbelIt doesn't really matter so much what the words are I don't think - maybe if you're a real expert in prayer you could do it through silence. But I think sometimes it helps to express it and to know you're expressing it to God. Paul talked about praying with your spirit and that's basically what it is, it's expressing what you feel deep down in a language which God gives you.
Nicky GumbelI think a lot of people do have questions about life, 'What's the purpose of my life?', 'What's the meaning of my life?', 'Why am I here?' ... It's hard to find a place where you can discuss those issues. You can't go down to the pub and say, 'What do you think the meaning of life is?' But actually, most people have those questions, somewhere in the back of their minds. And if you can find a place where you can discuss it with a group of people who, like you, are outside of the Church, and it's a non-threatening, relaxed environment, quite a lot of people want to do that.
Nicky GumbelChurches are not museums that display perfect people. They are hospitals where the wounded, hurt, injured and broken find healing.
Nicky GumbelIf we knew what people had been through, their sorrow and suffering, we would not be so quick to judge.
Nicky GumbelLife is a huge privilege and opportunity. God has trusted you with gifts and abilities, which he wants you to use.
Nicky Gumbel