God, Country & the American Story With Billy Hallowell

Brandon Showalter is the host of “The Generation Indoctrination: Inside the Transgender Battle” documentary podcast from The Christian Post. He has spent years revealing the “growing and metastasizing transgender craze in America” and his reporting works to expose “one of the worst medical scandals of our time.” Listen as Mr. Showalter breaks down what to expect from Season 4 of his podcast documentary with The Washington Times Higher Ground’s Billy Hallowell.FOLLOW BILLY ON SOCIAL MEDIA:- Follow Billy on Twitter- Follow Billy on Instagram- Follow Billy on Facebook- Follow Billy on YouTube- Follow Billy on Threads

With so much chaos, furor, and dysfunction in culture, entertainment has unsurprisingly become more depraved and disconnected from morality. Yet, new companies continue to emerge aimed at inspiring families and instilling faith and biblical ethics. Entertainment industry veterans Monty Hobbs and Valerie Smaldone have jumped into the inspirational space with their new company Just Do GOOD Entertainment, a content creation company that seeks to entertain, inspire, and become motivated to do good. Their new show "Divine Renovation," hosted by Erik Estrada, is just one such project.Listen to Mr. Hobbs and Ms. Smaldone break down their mission and why they're hoping to help transform Hollywood content. FOLLOW BILLY ON SOCIAL MEDIA:- Follow Billy on Twitter- Follow Billy on Instagram- Follow Billy on Facebook- Follow Billy on YouTube- Follow Billy on Threads

In this episode of Higher Ground, Billy Hallowell sits down with Pastor Jesse Bradley from Grace Community Church in Washington State. They dive into the role of faith in today’s chaotic political climate, exploring why it’s essential for believers to engage thoughtfully and prayerfully with current events — especially amid dark times. Jesse shares his insight on the balance between spiritual convictions and civic responsibilities, reminding listeners of the importance of praying for all leaders—whether or not they align with our beliefs.The discussion also takes a personal turn, as Mr. Bradley opens up about the struggles facing the church today. From navigating the political spectrum to facing cultural confusion, he offers guidance on finding clarity in Scripture and using it as the foundation for decision-making, especially during elections and chaotic times. This conversation will inspire you to ask, “What does God want for my vote?”Beyond politics, Mr. Bradley explores the real-life challenges plaguing society—from the rise in mental health struggles to societal shifts that often leave the church feeling isolated. He emphasizes the need for a grassroots, Gospel-centered approach, sharing practical ways his church is working to reach people where they are, including innovative ministries like Drive Thru Prayer and JustChooseHope.org.They discuss how, in dark times, a little light can go a long way. Jesse shares powerful stories from Seattle, highlighting how small acts of hope can transform lives and communities. He calls on Christians everywhere to rise above the fray, spread hope, and become part of the solution, living out the true calling of faith in every facet of life.So, tune in for a stirring conversation that will challenge you to think deeper, pray harder, and act bolder. FOLLOW BILLY ON SOCIAL MEDIA:- Follow Billy on Twitter- Follow Billy on Instagram- Follow Billy on Facebook- Follow Billy on YouTube

For KING + COUNTRY is undoubtedly one of the most popular inspirational bands of the modern era, with lead singers — and brothers — Joel and Luke Smallbone entertaining the masses through music, movies, and live tour experiences.The duo most recently saw their family's incredible journey conveyed through the major motion picture "Unsung Hero," which was released earlier this year. Months later, they're now traveling across America on the 31-city "For KING + COUNTRY LIVE: The UNSUNG HERO 2024 Tour," performing music from the film and offering faith-inspiring messages to audiences. The Smallbones' work is a fusion of art, faith, encouragement, innovation, and grit.Joel Smallbone told "Higher Ground With Billy Hallowell" that he and Luke are "trying to create awe-inspiring environments" through their music and performances. And it's not lost on him that For KING + COUNTRY is bringing out these messages of hope during a "very tumultuous time for this country." It's a responsibility and honor Smallbone doesn't take lightly."We get to pull people into a room that vote, think, look, act different from one another — different beliefs, different points of view, and yet we can come together for two and a half hours and have this ... emotional, relational, spiritual moment together," he said. "I'm really proud of it, and I think that's part of the deep purpose of it."FOLLOW BILLY ON SOCIAL MEDIA:- Follow Billy on Twitter- Follow Billy on Instagram- Follow Billy on Facebook- Follow Billy on YouTube

"I don’t feel like I live in America." That's how actor Scott Baio talks about the anti-God "creep" he sees seeping into American culture. He discuss that, voting, cancel culture and his latest film, "God’s Not Dead: In God We Trust."FOLLOW BILLY ON SOCIAL MEDIA:- Follow Billy on Twitter- Follow Billy on Instagram- Follow Billy on Facebook- Follow Billy on YouTube

Did former President Donald Trump really lose the debate? Plus: pro-choice activists get prison time for attacks on pro-life pregnancy resource centers. Journalists Jesse Jackson (Church Leaders), Valerie Richardson (Washington Times) and Billy Hallowell break it all down.FOLLOW BILLY ON SOCIAL MEDIA:- Follow Billy on Twitter- Follow Billy on Instagram- Follow Billy on Facebook- Follow Billy on YouTube

Tuesday's presidential debate between Vice President Kamala Harris and former President Donald Trump could transform the entire race. Plus: what do the polls currently say? That and more on today's show.FOLLOW BILLY ON SOCIAL MEDIA:- Follow Billy on Twitter- Follow Billy on Instagram- Follow Billy on Facebook- Follow Billy on YouTube

What's next for Vice President Kamala Harris, former president Donald Trump and the 2024 presidential showdown? The Washington Times' Cheryl Chumley joins Billy Hallowell to break it all down.Plus, Ms. Chumley discusses her first fiction novel "Chloe: Book One of Chloe's People: A Novel."FOLLOW BILLY ON SOCIAL MEDIA:- Follow Billy on Twitter- Follow Billy on Instagram- Follow Billy on Facebook- Follow Billy on YouTube

Joshua Broome once had it all. Fame, money, acclaim. But he was rudderless, depressed — and ready to end his life. After abandoning the adult film industry, Mr. Broome went on a quest to find meaning. He discovered Jesus, is now a preacher, and has a powerful message for everyone about the lies plaguing our culture. Check out his book, "7 Lies That Will Ruin Your Life: What My Journey from Porn Star to Preacher Taught Me About the Truth That Sets Us Free."FOLLOW BILLY ON SOCIAL MEDIA:- Follow Billy on Twitter- Follow Billy on Instagram- Follow Billy on Facebook- Follow Billy on YouTube

Granger Smith was a rising country music star when his son, River, drowned in 2019 and the trajectory of his life changed forever. It started with an uneasiness when Mr. Smith realized God was calling him to do something more. In the end, Mr. Smith ended up leaving music for ministry. Listen to him tell his story and share details about his new children’s book “Up Toward the Light” with Billy Hallowell on this week’s episode of "Higher Ground."FOLLOW BILLY ON SOCIAL MEDIA:- Follow Billy on Twitter- Follow Billy on Instagram- Follow Billy on Facebook- Follow Billy on YouTube

Kevin Singer, co-director of Neighborly Faith, joins "Higher Ground With Billy Hallowell" to deliver some statistics and facts around the contentious issue of Christian nationalism that might shock you."What we found in our study is those who are classified as Christian nationalists are ... also the most likely to be religious, to attend religious services, to pray daily, to fast, to be in worship services every week," Singer said. And that only scratches the surface, as his data dismantles some of the common claims being circulated about Christian nationalism. Listen for the full story.FOLLOW BILLY ON SOCIAL MEDIA:- Follow Billy on Twitter- Follow Billy on Instagram- Follow Billy on Facebook- Follow Billy on YouTube

Dr. Ben Carson has been a lot of things — a renowned surgeon, a presidential candidate, a government official, to name just a few of his key roles. Mr. Carson joins us to discuss his latest book, his passion for America, and what he believes people must understand to help bring the nation back on course.FOLLOW BILLY ON SOCIAL MEDIA:- Follow Billy on Twitter- Follow Billy on Instagram- Follow Billy on Facebook

Is Vice President Kamala Harris anti-Christian? Catholic leaders are issuing dire warnings and citing past behavior to reveal why they believe Ms. Harris exhibited bigotry and could pose a problem for religious liberty. The Washington Times' Valerie Richardson joins Billy Hallowell to break it all down. Read more here.FOLLOW BILLY ON SOCIAL MEDIA:- Follow Billy on Twitter- Follow Billy on Instagram- Follow Billy on Facebook

Pastor Corey Brooks, known as the "Rooftop Pastor" for his incredible efforts to raise millions of dollars for the creation of a Chicago community center by living atop a building for nearly one year, is a well-known community leader.Mr. Brooks joins "Higher Ground With Billy Hallowell" to discuss why he's now speaking out once again about politics despite in the past facing death threats and chaos. Listen to him explain why he won't back down — and why he believes people must reject the "victimhood mentality."FOLLOW BILLY ON SOCIAL MEDIA:- Follow Billy on Twitter- Follow Billy on Instagram- Follow Billy on Facebook

Imagine for a moment a dystopian America where Bibles are banned and Christianity is vanquished. That's the plotline for "Disciples in the Moonlight," a new action-packed film that explores what would happen if persecution were to run rampant throughout America. "In the not-too-distant future, the United States has banned the Bible for its 'offensiveness' and replaced it with a government-approved version," a description reads. "A small group of Christians are recruited to smuggle God’s Word to underground churches throughout the Midwest. With a ruthless federal agent in hot pursuit, the believers must choose between following the law or honoring and trusting God."Stars Brett Varvel, Drew Varvel and Josh Strychalski join Billy Hallowell to explore "Disciples in the Moonlight" and reveal the real-life miracles they believe made it a reality. FOLLOW BILLY ON SOCIAL MEDIA:- Follow Billy on Twitter- Follow Billy on Instagram- Follow Billy on Facebook

As the debate over parental rights forges on, California Gov. Gavin Newsom will soon have to decide whether to sign a new bill with sweeping ramifications."California schools would be banned from telling parents about their children’s gender transition under a bill headed to the desk of Democratic Gov. Gavin Newsom," The Washington Times Valerie Richardson writes. "Assembly Bill 1955 would prohibit school staffers and volunteers from informing parents about their child’s 'sexual orientation, gender identity or gender expression' without the student’s consent, seeking to thwart parental notification policies passed by local school boards."This Democratic-led legislation comes as at least 10 school districts in the state began mandating that schools tell parents if and when children decide they want to socially transition.Richardson joins Billy Hallowell to break down the story — and why it matters.FOLLOW BILLY ON SOCIAL MEDIA:- Follow Billy on Twitter- Follow Billy on Instagram- Follow Billy on Facebook

Reports claim some Democratic operatives are panicking over President Joe Biden's debate performance Thursday night during his historic face-off with former president Donald Trump. Biden and Trump locked horns over abortion, immigration, the economy, and a litany of other issues, with some critics hammering Biden's debate presence as less-than-stellar. Church Leaders' Jesse Jackson joins Billy Hallowell to discuss the debate, Trump's and Biden's performances, and what comes next. FOLLOW BILLY ON SOCIAL MEDIA:- Follow Billy on Twitter- Follow Billy on Instagram- Follow Billy on Facebook

The scandal surrounding Robert Morris, former pastor of the Texas-based Gateway Church, continues to dominate faith headlines. What's the story, who is the alleged victim — and what are the other key details? Church Leaders' Jesse Jackson joins Billy Hallowell to explore the shocking claims against Morris. Listen to this episode so you can better understand the ins and outs of what purportedly unfolded. FOLLOW BILLY ON SOCIAL MEDIA:- Follow Billy on Twitter- Follow Billy on Instagram- Follow Billy on Facebook

Author and speaker Jason Jimenez tackles what he believes is one of the biggest threats to Christianity today: The hijacking of the church and dismantling of the gospels by a progressive movement to “save Jesus from the church.” Mr. Jimenez’s book, “Hijacking Jesus: How Progressive Christians are Remaking Him and Taking Over His Church,” examines the progressive attack on biblical Christianity.FOLLOW BILLY ON SOCIAL MEDIA:- Follow Billy on Twitter- Follow Billy on Instagram- Follow Billy on Facebook

What are the biggest myths and political misconceptions about former President Donald Trump and the GOP right now? Republican pollster Patrick Ruffini breaks it all down and shares important considerations for anyone looking to understand the current political landscape. Ruffini also discusses his most recent book, "Party of the People: Inside the Multiracial Populist Coalition Remaking the GOP."FOLLOW BILLY ON SOCIAL MEDIA:- Follow Billy on Twitter- Follow Billy on Instagram- Follow Billy on Facebook

Many questions remain after a New York court found former President Donald Trump guilty in his historic hush-money case. But, what was the crime, how did it all come about — and what's next? Washington Times reporter Alex Swoyer joins Billy Hallowell to break down the ins and outs of the hush-money case, what the verdict means, and what's next for Mr. Trump. Plus, she explores claims the case is political in nature.That and more on today's "Higher Ground."FOLLOW BILLY ON SOCIAL MEDIA:- Follow Billy on Twitter- Follow Billy on Instagram- Follow Billy on Facebook

Why are liberals so up in arms over Harrison Butker — and why in the world did Ireland, Norway, and Spain seemingly deliver a big win to Hamas Terrorists? Cheryl Chumley joins Billy Hallowell to break down two of the most important stories of the week.THIS WEEK'S STORIES:The real reason liberals are fuming over Harrison Butker’s commencement addressHamas scores win as Ireland, Norway and Spain give nod to ‘Palestine’FOLLOW BILLY ON SOCIAL MEDIA:- Follow Billy on Twitter- Follow Billy on Instagram- Follow Billy on Facebook

NFL star Harrison Butker is under fire, pro-life activist Lauren Handy is headed to prison, and another mass baptism is shocking and inspiring. That and more on today's "Higher Ground." Billy Hallowell goes behind the headlines with CBN’s Tre Goins Phillips and the Washington Times’ Valerie Richardson. TODAY'S STORIES:Missouri AG Opens Probe into Kansas City’s ‘Retaliatory’ Post Doxxing Chiefs’ Harrison ButkerPro-Life Advocate Lauren Handy Sentenced to 57 Months in Prison: 'Biden's DOJ Is Fully Weaponized'Pastor in Awe as 1,614 People Are Baptized on Beach: ‘God Saved a Lot of People’FOLLOW BILLY ON SOCIAL MEDIA:- Follow Billy on Twitter- Follow Billy on Instagram- Follow Billy on Facebook

Baptisms are taking over America, with yet another massive effort set to make history. Meanwhile, the state of denominational Christianity continues to be in an intriguing place. The United Methodist Church made some major changes on the LGBTQ front — and the Southern Baptist Convention lost hundreds of thousands of members (but is seeking a baptism surge). This and more on today's "Higher Ground," as The Washington Times' Mark Kellner joins the show to break it all down.FOLLOW BILLY ON SOCIAL MEDIA:- Follow Billy on Twitter- Follow Billy on Instagram- Follow Billy on Facebook

Hollywood actor's Bible bashing, a tragic turn in the Kanye West saga, and the truth about campus agitators. That and more on today’s Higher Ground. I’m Billy Hallowell and we’re going behind the headlines today with CBN’s Tre Goins Phillips and the Washington Times’ Valerie Richardson.THIS WEEK'S STORIES:Nearly Half of Anti-Israel ‘Student’ Protesters Arrested at Columbia, CCNY Weren’t Students‘Don’t Do It’: Ex-Porn Star Who Found Jesus Begs Kanye West Not to Start XXX StudioHollywood Actor Slams Bible as ‘One of the Worst Books Ever,’ Says Those Who Believe Genesis Narrative Are ‘Stupid’FOLLOW BILLY ON SOCIAL MEDIA:- Follow Billy on Twitter- Follow Billy on Instagram- Follow Billy on Facebook

As we remember the life and legacy of Mandisa, Billy revisits a 2022 interview with her during which she shared her struggles, revealed her triumphs, and discussed finding God in the fog of life's chaos. Hear what Mandisa had to say.Here is a special edition of "Higher Ground."FOLLOW BILLY ON SOCIAL MEDIA:- Follow Billy on Twitter- Follow Billy on Instagram- Follow Billy on Facebook

Why is antisemitism raging, what's happening on American college campuses — and why is an evangelist sounding the alarm over pop icon Taylor Swift's new lyrics and album? On today's "Higher Ground," Raj Nair from TBN and Jesse Jackson from Church Leaders join Billy Hallowell to break it all down, exploring what's really happening at U.S. universities and why some parents might want to know a bit more about Swift's new music. READ MORE ABOUT TODAY'S STORIES:‘Lyrics Matter’—Evangelist Shane Pruitt Sounds the Alarm on Taylor Swift’s New AlbumHolocaust Survivor Hits Back at Anti-Israel Campus Chaos With Sobering Warning

The 25th anniversary of the Columbine shooting, chaos over Pastor Mark Driscoll and a sword swallower, and Bill Maher's shocking comments about abortion. We're breaking these stories and much more down on today's Higher Ground with Billy Hallowell.We're joined by Jesse Jackson from Church Leaders and Valerie Richardson from The Washington Times to dive into some of the week's most interesting headlines. THIS WEEK'S STORIES:Bill Maher Stuns Pro-LifersMark Driscoll Kicked Off Stage for Calling Out ‘Strip Club’-Like Performance at Stronger Men’s Conference25th Anniversary of the Columbine Shooting: ReflectionsFOLLOW BILLY ON SOCIAL MEDIA:- Follow Billy on Twitter- Follow Billy on Instagram- Follow Billy on Facebook

Actor Gary Sinise's faith and the loss of his son, Mac, terror in Israel — and death threats against Skillet frontman Jon Cooper. The Washington Times' Cheryl Chumley and Jesse Jackson from ChurchLeaders join Billy Hallowell to take you behind some of the week's most important and fascinating headlines. THIS WEEK'S STORIES:Actor Gary Sinise Reflects on Prayer, God, Son’s Death After Cancer Battle: ‘A Man of Great Faith’Skillet’s John Cooper Received Death Threats and Pornographic Images Because of the Name of His BookWATCH: Narrative Shifts, as World’s Compassion Wrongly Falls to Palestinians, Not JewsFOLLOW BILLY ON SOCIAL MEDIA:- Follow Billy on Twitter- Follow Billy on Instagram- Follow Billy on Facebook

Hundreds of Bibles burned outside of a church, an OnlyFans star turns to Jesus, and revival breaks out on yet another college campus. Welcome to Higher Ground. On today’s media roundtable, Billy Hallowell is joined by The Washington Times' Mark Kellner and Jesse Jackson of Church Leaders to discuss these stories — and more. Read the stories on today's episode:‘I Am Giving It All Up For Christ’—OnlyFans Star Nala Ray Declares Faith in JesusEaster Sunday Arson Won’t Deter Tennessee Pastor’s Preaching, Outreach‘It’s Just Insane’: Hundreds of Young People Embrace Christ, Get Spontaneously Baptized in Backs of Pickup TrucksFOLLOW BILLY ON SOCIAL MEDIA:- Follow Billy on Twitter- Follow Billy on Instagram- Follow Billy on Facebook

An Easter drama over Elevation Church, a foster family's pronoun fight, and a Gold Star family's shocking experience with President Joe Biden. On today's Higher Ground, CBN News' Tre Goins Phillips and Washington Times' Valerie Richardson join me to go behind the headlines into the minds of reporters and TV hosts covering some of the biggest faith and culture stories of the week.Here are today's stories we're breaking down:Steven Furtick's Elevation Church sent Easter seeker-friendly invites that omit 'resurrection,' 'Calvary':https://www.christianpost.com/news/elevation-church-sent-easter-invites-that-omit-resurrection.html?clickType=link-most-popularChristian foster parents sue Washington over rules requiring transgender names, pronouns: https://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2024/mar/25/christian-foster-parents-sue-washington-over-rules/Family of US Marine Killed in Afghanistan Reveals Biden’s Shock Response: ‘Our Lives Will Never Be the Same’:https://www.faithwire.com/2024/03/26/family-of-us-marine-killed-in-afghanistan-reveals-bidens-shock-response-our-lives-will-never-be-the-same/

Should Christians attend gay weddings? And how do we make sense of Martin Luther and antisemitism? Plus, radio host Dan Bongino’s supernatural experience. Welcome to Higher Ground With Billy Hallowell. This is the first week of our exciting new format, in which we’re bringing together some of the best journalists, TV hosts, and writers who cover faith and culture to discuss the week's most important stories. Ian Giatti from The Christian Post and Jesse Jackson from Church Leaders join Billy Hallowell to break down stories about gay weddings, Martin Luther — and more. And the Rev. Samuel Rogriguez comes on the show to explain the immigration crisis and how he believes Christians – and American politicians — should solve the issue.FOLLOW BILLY ON SOCIAL MEDIA:- Follow Billy on Twitter- Follow Billy on Instagram- Follow Billy on Facebook

Author and speaker Jason Jimenez tackles what he believes is one of the biggest threats to Christianity today: The hijacking of the church and dismantling of the gospels by a progressive movement to “save Jesus from the church.” Mr. Jimenez’s book, “Hijacking Jesus: How Progressive Christians are Remaking Him and Taking Over His Church,” examines the progressive attack on biblical Christianity. FOLLOW BILLY ON SOCIAL MEDIA:- Follow Billy on Twitter- Follow Billy on Instagram- Follow Billy on Facebook

"Christian nationalism" is everywhere these days...but is it really? The term, which has a plethora of definitions, sparks emotion and chaos, but is there something else going on under the surface — something far more sinister? Fears over a purported “Christian nationalist” takeover are almost ever-present these days, but the real menace is far more fiendish: at best, a total disregard for First Amendment freedom and, at worst, a strategic effort to obliterate ideological opponents. Billy Hallowell breaks it down on this week's "Higher Ground."FOLLOW BILLY ON SOCIAL MEDIA:- Follow Billy on Twitter- Follow Billy on Instagram- Follow Billy on Facebook

Author and speaker Justin Brierley has spent years moderating conversations between Christians and atheists and his new book, “The Surprising Rebirth of Belief in God,” highlights shocking changes in the atheistic way of thinking. He says he’s seen a reassessment “in the value of Christianity” in atheist circles that could set the stage for a Christian revival around the world.FOLLOW BILLY ON SOCIAL MEDIA:- Follow Billy on Twitter- Follow Billy on Instagram- Follow Billy on Facebook

Christian Post reporter Brandon Showalter has been on a mission to expose gender ideology, blowing the top off some of the most shocking stories of what he says is clear medical malfeasance. Listen to him reveal some stunning details and the surprising ways he believes the conversation could be turning in the right direction. FOLLOW BILLY ON SOCIAL MEDIA:- Follow Billy on Twitter- Follow Billy on Instagram- Follow Billy on Facebook

The "He Gets Us" Super Bowl ad ignited a fury in Christian circles. Was it a helpful evangelistic tool — or a watered-down attempt at sharing the Christian Gospel? Jason Vanderground, co-creator of the "He Gets Us" campaign, sits down with Billy Hallowell to respond to some of the toughest critiques of the campaign, and to share the reason he believes it is a powerful tool to reach non-Christians.FOLLOW BILLY ON SOCIAL MEDIA:- Follow Billy on Twitter- Follow Billy on Instagram- Follow Billy on Facebook

When college students at Asbury University held a 24/7 prayer and worship service last year, photos and stories almost immediately went viral. Tens of thousands of people flooded to the small town of Wilmore, Kentucky, to witness firsthand what has been called a"revival" by some and an "outpouring" by others. The powerful event, teamed with many other spiritual moments of 2023, has sparked questions about what's happening in America when it comes to spirituality. So, what's the real story behind the Asbury Revival? What sparked the stunning moment? On today's show, we sit down with Zach Meerkreebs, a writer and pastor at Asbury. Mr. Meerkreebs was the preacher who delivered the sermon that essentially sparked the nonstop prayer and worship service; he was also front and center, helping organize what followed. Listen to him share the real story surrounding the Asbury Revival. FOLLOW BILLY ON SOCIAL MEDIA:- Follow Billy on Twitter- Follow Billy on Instagram- Follow Billy on Facebook

Should Christians cancel Alistair Begg over his LGBTQ wedding response? That's the question Billy Hallowell and Shane Idleman, pastor of Westside Christian Fellowship, tackle in this episode of "Higher Ground With Billy Hallowell," with the two diving headfirst into the controversial debate.PLUS: Is Christian nationalism as big of an issue as many claim? We flashback to our interview with the Rev. Samuel Rodriguez to explore it all.FOLLOW BILLY ON SOCIAL MEDIA:- Follow Billy on Twitter- Follow Billy on Instagram- Follow Billy on Facebook

How does China terrorize Christians? ChinaAid President and founder Bob Fu recently sat down with Higher Ground to expose some of the extreme steps the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) is taking to “erase Christianity from China,” including crippling fines and imprisonment.Plus, Finnish politician Paivi Rasanen’s “1984”-esque nightmare continues to unfold, as she's punished for sharing Bible verses, among other free speech issues. In a plot seemingly ripped from the pages of an Alfred Hitchcock script, Ms. Rasanen, a member of the Finnish parliament who previously served as the nation’s interior secretary, was brought up on “hate crimes” charges for simply expressing her Christian beliefs.Hear these stories on this week's "Higher Ground With Billy Hallowell."FOLLOW BILLY ON SOCIAL MEDIA:- Follow Billy on Twitter- Follow Billy on Instagram- Follow Billy on Facebook

Shane Idleman, founder and lead pastor of Westside Chrisitan Fellowship in Southern California, delivers a candid assessment when asked whether Christians can vote for former president Donald Trump. From morals to values — and the U.S. Supreme Court — he tackles some of the biggest issues and objections to the ex-commander-in-chief.Hear this powerful episode of "Higher Ground."FOLLOW BILLY ON SOCIAL MEDIA:- Follow Billy on Twitter- Follow Billy on Instagram- Follow Billy on Facebook

Entrepreneur, businessman, and podcast host Corey Nathan joins the show to discuss his journey from Judaism to Christianity and how he's learned to navigate chaotic differences in political and religious persuasions. Host of the podcast "Talkin' Politics & Religion Without Killin' Each Other," Nathan brings a unique perspective to the conversation. FOLLOW BILLY ON SOCIAL MEDIA:- Follow Billy on Twitter- Follow Billy on Instagram- Follow Billy on Facebook

Is America slated for major revival in 2024? Jesse Bradley, pastor at Grace Community Church in Auburn, Washington, reflects on the past year of spiritual moments, shares tips for how people can get closer to God — and reveals why it's essential to be part of a church community. Mr. Bradley also explores a powerful prayer project that's transforming his community.Plus, "Superman" star Dean Cain gives his candid assessment on faith, politics, the state of California, and why God became a bigger fixture in his life. That and more on this week's "Higher Ground With Billy Hallowell."FOLLOW BILLY ON SOCIAL MEDIA:- Follow Billy on Twitter- Follow Billy on Instagram- Follow Billy on Facebook

There's a disturbing blasphemy case unfolding in Bangladesh as persecution rages across the globe. Plus, a pressing update on Nagorno-Karabakh) after Armenian Christians were forced out. Joel Veldkamp, head of international communications for Christian Solidarity International, joins Billy Hallowell to share the disturbing stories and explain why it truly matters. FOLLOW BILLY ON SOCIAL MEDIA:- Follow Billy on Twitter- Follow Billy on Instagram- Follow Billy on Facebook

Danica McKellar is a fixture on Great American Family and has had a long career in Hollywood after her breakout role in "The Wonder Years," which ran from 1988 until 1993. Today, she's starring in positive, uplifting movies, authoring books, and sharing her newfound faith. Ms. McKellar joins Higher Ground today to discuss her powerful journey to Christianity — and how it has changed her life.

TV host Erick Stakelbeck believes we're truly living in "prophetic times," reflecting on the chaos in Israel and the Middle East. From discussing end-times theology to explaining the significance and history of Hanukkah, Stakelbeck, who has a new special about Hanukkah on TBN, joins Billy Hallowell for a truly thought-provoking discussion."The miraculous rebirth of Israel, I believe, set the prophetic time clock into overdrive," he said. Listen to the powerful conversation.FOLLOW BILLY ON SOCIAL MEDIA:- Follow Billy on Twitter- Follow Billy on Instagram- Follow Billy on Facebook

Is God taking Hollywood by storm? More and more celebrities are embracing Jesus, quitting the industry, and spreading the Christian faith. What's unfolding — and why does it matter? Plus, evangelist Franklin Graham drops by to discuss Hamas' horrific attack, his recent trip to Israel, and what he believes is truly unfolding right now.FOLLOW BILLY ON SOCIAL MEDIA:- Follow Billy on Twitter- Follow Billy on Instagram- Follow Billy on Facebook

It's no secret Candace Cameron Bure, star of "Full House," "Fuller House," and a slew of Christmas movies is an outspoken Christian. She joins this week's "Higher Ground" to share her path to faith — and Hollywood.FOLLOW BILLY ON SOCIAL MEDIA:- Follow Billy on Twitter- Follow Billy on Instagram- Follow Billy on Facebook

The mother of a Hamas hostage is speaking out about her family's pain, what unfolded on Oct. 7 when Hamas attacked Israel, and what she's been feeling and experiencing.Doris Liber has spoken with politicians and the public since her son, 26-year-old Guy Illouzm was taken hostage. She and her family have no idea about his whereabouts or health status. Here is her story.FOLLOW BILLY ON SOCIAL MEDIA:- Follow Billy on Twitter- Follow Billy on Instagram- Follow Billy on Facebook

Two Hollywood stars are the voice of reason this week: Roma Downey and Rob Schneider. Schneider offers a powerful message of forgiveness and Downey joins "Higher Ground" to talk about her new book, the importance of protecting kids from the chaos in our world, and how she navigated life's struggles through faith.Listen to the "Touched By an Angel" star break it all down on this week's "Higher Ground."FOLLOW BILLY ON SOCIAL MEDIA:- Follow Billy on Twitter- Follow Billy on Instagram- Follow Billy on Facebook