Christianity Today’s editorial independence faces growing scrutiny as journalists accuse executives of interfering with reporting. The influential evangelical publication has lost more than half of its 79 employees through layoffs and resignations over 14 months. Former editors say leadership changes threaten the magazine’s longstanding commitment to investigative journalism.
Founded in 1956 with support from Billy Graham, Christianity Today built its reputation through professional reporting and theological commentary. But declining subscriptions and financial pressures have prompted substantial changes. Its paid subscriber base has fallen to just over 50,000, compared with 80,000 magazine subscribers a decade ago.
Leadership Changes Spark Staff Departures
During a 2025 staff meeting, then-interim president Thomas Addington urged Christianity Today to become less like Wheaton College and more like TikTok. He warned employees about impending layoffs while outlining a new direction.
Nicole Massie Martin subsequently became president and chief executive, while Addington became chief operating officer. Former employees said both increasingly participated in editorial discussions.
Former deputy editor Bonnie Kristian accused executives of discouraging coverage of controversial stories. Reporter Daniel Silliman also described interference involving his reporting on a lawsuit against California pastor Greg Laurie. Silliman and editor Kate Shellnutt resigned in protest.
Controversial Reporting Raises Censorship Concerns
The magazine’s editorial independence faced another test when new editor-in-chief Erik Petrik removed an article discussing evidence of Elisabeth Elliot’s bisexuality. Conservative backlash followed its publication, and Petrik withdrew it within 12 hours.
The story returned the following day with an explanation that key content staff had not reviewed it before publication.
The controversy intensified existing concerns about the magazine’s editorial direction. Christianity Today has historically investigated allegations involving prominent evangelical leaders, including Ravi Zacharias.
Executives Defend Their Vision as Journalists Warn of Risks
Martin denies interfering with editorial decisions. She maintains that leadership seeks awareness of potentially contentious coverage while preserving independent journalism.
Addington similarly argues that editorial disagreements occur throughout the news industry. Petrik promises high standards and a gentler editorial tone.
But former journalists question whether those commitments match leadership’s actions. Kristian warns that financial and reputational fears increasingly influence decisions. Shellnutt believes the changes narrow opportunities for difficult reporting within evangelical journalism.
Their concerns go beyond staffing reductions; the publication faces fundamental questions about its audience and mission. Leadership maintains its commitment to biblical journalism, while departing journalists fear that influential subjects could escape scrutiny.
Source: Why a Pillar of Christian Journalism is in Turmoil
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