Many Churches from a range of denominations use The Alpha Course to engage with the public. If you are considering going on one of these ( or have previously attended one) here are some consideration and further questions to ask both yourself and those that promote this course.
If you are already Christian, is this course worthy of your faith?
What is the stated goal of Alpha? Is it genuinely “to explore life, faith and meaning,” or primarily to lead attendees toward a specific conclusion?
How clearly is that goal disclosed? Do participants know from the outset that Alpha is evangelistic, not a neutral discussion forum?
Would the conversations feel different if that purpose were stated more directly?
When Alpha presents historical or scientific examples (Galileo, Newton, Pascal, etc.), are we told enough context to assess whether their faith was orthodox, cultural, or personal?
Are any sources given? Could an attendee verify the information independently?
Does the course ever cite dissenting experts or alternative viewpoints? If not, why might that be?
How do the videos and testimonies make you feel? Do they use music, lighting, or storytelling to create mood before key messages?
Is emotion being used to support evidence, or to replace it?
Would the argument still persuade you if the emotional framing were removed?
When public figures are mentioned (scientists, artists, celebrities), is their actual belief or non-belief represented accurately?
If Freddie Mercury, Gandhi, or Einstein are quoted, is it clear whether they identified as Christian?
Would you consider it fair if another religion used selective quotes from Christians to claim those people as their own?
Are difficult questions—such as alternative interpretations or historical criticism—explored openly, or quickly redirected?
Do group leaders welcome prolonged uncertainty, or is there subtle pressure to reach the “right” answer?
Would you feel comfortable disagreeing publicly with a central claim? How would that be received?
Is there an implicit timeline for making a personal commitment (“weekend of the Holy Spirit”)?
Do you feel free to attend simply to learn, without converting?
How might it change your perception if you realised the course design assumes eventual conversion?
Does Alpha meet the same standard of honesty you would expect from a journalist, teacher, or scientist?
If someone used the same persuasive structure to promote a product or political view, would you consider it fair or manipulative?
Is it ethical to present simplified versions of complex debates for the sake of persuasion?
Is the method consistent with the values it teaches—truth, love, humility, respect for conscience?
Does the end (conversion) justify any selective use of facts?
What does intellectual honesty, (or more significantly Christian ethics) require from both the presenter and the participant?
If you are looking for a more informed overview of the Jesus legacy, please check out our Early Christianity resources.