Your Calling

Regular listeners to the London Calling Podcast (Twitter handle @calling_podcast) will be familiar with the generally opposing views taken by the two protagonists, @JamesDelingpole and Toby Young @toadmeister.

James adopts a worldview that is open to persuasion on many matters, encompassing conspiracies proven true or for which there exists a strong evidence base, to the more outlandish. Some may feel a lack of discernment on the latter undermines credibility to the former, an argument made by Tobes, to which I add my name not merely as wise rational appproach, but because James says he is a Christian. As one who knows a little of apologetics, where a strong evidentiary basis from cosmology to the Resurrection is mustered in defence of the biblical documentary account, I must add the solid claims from historical manuscripts and archaeology to place Christianity firmly in the former category.

Each generation the authentic biblical Christian has always been regarded as the equivalent of a conspiracy theorist by mockers. Surprising really given that in contemporary times there exists so many untapped resources for providing informed debate.

It is the nature of exploration, whether it be physical or intellectual terrain, that requires sometimes a degree of courage, inquisitiveness, sureness of foot when things become unsupported slowgoing or dangerous. Following an established path where others have gone before certainly helps. When the path ahead becomes unclear as it disappears or divides into multiple tracks, navigational aids prove indispensable. For those who see this, it must also be remembered the Prince of this world is in rebellion against the King of Kings, the rightful ruler, so we are behind enemy lines until His return, hence the additional need to be suitably equipped.

For 33 years I have persevered with the aid of Scripture, the written sometimes spoken testimony and guidance of brothers before and with me, tertiary studies directed to ancient history and how Christians established themselves on public record and through literature, always with the ongoing aid of the equivalent of navigation by star or satellite, the direction of the Holy Spirit, spirit translated in Hebrew also as God's breath or wind. He moves us as he sees fit if we align our sails, waiting patiently for the breeze to lift us up. C S Lewis referred to his awakening as gradual, like the incoming tide lifting a grounded ship.

I like Toby's work ethic, his considered delivery, his returning to areas of interest where subsequent evidence proves conjecture now fact. The slightly more lawyerly approach allows a greater degree of accessibility for those without prior knowledge, puzzled struggling to comprehend how it all fits together, juggling each piece to see what picture is emerging.

However where the case becomes clearer and the mind remains fixed, something else may be at play. Cancel culture and attacks on person public reputation employment prospects family wealth, none of it is welcome. Persevering despite such persecution requires a commitment to truth that goes beyond mere intellectual pursuit, such is the cost.

Whether Team James Team Tobes Team Both many listeners I'm sure enjoy the banter and importance of this ongoing personal and commercial relationship as one avenue of discovery for anglosphere and wider current affairs.

The primary purpose in writing this piece was to encourage London Calling and the wider team to build on the ground being covered by providing links and documents verifying claims made. This would have the dual effect of delivering more light than heat, plus broaden the scope of the remit. Crowdsourcing resources would enable listeners to post evidence to a website, existing or new, where topics are fleshed out not for adversarial means but to bring clarity and understanding, as much sunlight as possible.

Yes wise editorial oversight is crucial to weed out nonsense, falsity, information uploaded in good faith that subsequently proves incorrect, honest man honestly mistaken. And subscriptions to contribute or edit would enable an income stream besides oversight. I know both of you have drive, Toby particularly has created employment for others, so this is proffered to those who have already established themselves as people able to get things done.

I give thanks that London Calling is not I think the environment where disinformation, i.e. intentional deceit, could gain a footing once exposed for what it is.

Unfortunately I have been somewhat isolated for many years from a productive community where such ideas could come to fruition, and without support lack the technical skills that your journalism background aides you in. Thankfully old school content generation remains familiar ground.

Like much in life, it's a Team Lift.