PLAY PODCASTS
I Don't Have Enough FAITH to Be an ATHEIST

I Don't Have Enough FAITH to Be an ATHEIST

314 episodes — Page 5 of 7

63+ Million Reasons to Join The White Rose Resistance | with Seth Gruber

Does today's culture value human life like our Founding Father, Thomas Jefferson, did when he penned the Declaration of Independence? According to statistics compiled by the National Right to Life organization, there have been approximately 63+ million abortions performed in the United States since 1973. While there's no doubt that Jefferson was fully committed to the concept of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness for all citizens, many Americans today have been deceived into believing that the right to life only applies to life outside the womb. But if the unborn don't truly hold these inalienable rights as described in our founding documents, does anyone else?Last month, pro-life speaker Seth Gruber joined Frank to talk about his brand-new book (and a documentary of the same name), 'The 1916 Project: The Lyin’, The Witch, and the War We’re In', and to unpack the life of Margaret Sanger and how her death-obsessed legacy continues to cripple modern society. As a continuation of their last conversation, Seth returns to tell us about the fastest-growing pro-life non-profit organization in America, The White Rose Resistance, its inspirational backstory, and why the Church must speak out and be courageous in a hostile culture, no matter the cost. How did we drift so far away from the right to life? Is racism America's original sin? How did Gnosticism influence Margaret Sanger's worldview? What is the danger of spiritual atrophy, and how can you avoid falling into it? You don't want to miss the shocking answers to these questions in this jaw-dropping follow-up episode!To view the entire VIDEO PODCAST, join our CrossExamined private community. It’s the perfect place to jump into great discussions with like-minded Christians while providing financial support for our ministry.You can also SUPPORT THE PODCAST HERE.Listen to Part 1 - The 1916 ProjectSeth's WebsiteThe 1916 ProjectThe White Rose Resistance

Jul 2, 202431 min

The Real-Life Horror Stories of Gender Ideology and Public Schools | with Laura Bryant Hanford

What would you do if you learned that your child's school had been plotting an elaborate scheme to legally abduct your child, cutting off all communication from you and forcing them into a state-run facility because they view you as the enemy? Could we really be living in an America where teachers introduce vulnerable students to drugs and pornography, implanting transgender ideology into their minds, all the while deliberately hiding it from their parents? Believe it or not, these horror stories are happening all over the country, even in America's most conservative states! But what can you do to protect your children?This week, Frank sits down with Laura Bryant Hanford, an advocate for human rights, religious freedom and school policy, a contributing writer to The Federalist, and a graduate of Princeton University. As a concerned mother of five herself, Laura's involvement with the Fairfax County's Family Life Education Curriculum Advisory Committee has given her key insight into what's really going on in our educational system and what you can do to change it! During their conversation, Frank and Laura will answer questions like:Why was Laura removed from the school board committee?How are educators successfully grooming children into transgenderism without the knowledge of the parents?How does transgenderism benefit Big Pharma companies?How are online chat rooms being leveraged to indoctrinate kids and hide information from parents?What resources are available for parents who want to stay in the know?How is Transgender Ideology affecting public policy and what are Democrats doing in response?What makes children especially vulnerable to being victims of "Gender-Affirming Care"?The topic of this week's podcast is outrageous and alarming but it could save your child's life (and your peace of mind)! Not only will this episode uncover the multifaceted avenues that can be used to trap innocent kids, but it'll bring awareness to the issue as well as provide you with the resources you need to shield underage youth from these heinous, demonic abuses of power. For more information, you can read Laura's full articles at The Federalist and be sure to download this extremely helpful and comprehensive list of resources to help you stay engaged and take action wherever you live!To view the entire VIDEO PODCAST be sure to join our CrossExamined private community. It’s the perfect place to jump into some great discussions with like-minded Christians while simultaneously providing financial support for our ministry.You can also SUPPORT THE PODCAST HERE.Resources mentioned during the episode:Laura's articles at The FederalistMore on Sage's story and Sage's LawEven more helpful links, websites, and resources on how to protect our kids (PDF file)

Jun 28, 202448 min

Jacob, Joseph, and Jesus: EVEN MORE "Third Day" References in the Old Testament | with Dr. Chip Bennett

Is the whole of Scripture just a disorganized collection of conflicting documents? Some scholars think so, claiming it to be a battleground for historical contradictions. But what if it's a carefully orchestrated thread woven together and preserved by the Divine Author?Just a few episodes ago, Dr. Chip Bennett wowed listeners with his insights into the resurrection themes and third-day narratives from the Old Testament. For this midweek podcast episode, Chip returns to dive deeper into the Hebrew Bible and uncover how the Messianic prophecies are intertwined with the tales of patriarchs like Jacob, Joseph, Joshua, and Judah. How do some of our daily routines point to the resurrection? Can the story of Cinderella shed light on the Gospel? How does the third day relate to life and death motifs? All these questions and more will be answered at the conclusion of this special three-part series. If you haven't done so already, check out the previous two podcasts in the list of resources below to ensure you're all caught up on Frank and Chip's full conversation!To view the entire VIDEO PODCAST, be sure to join our CrossExamined private community. It’s the perfect place to jump into great discussions with like-minded Christians while providing financial support for our ministry.You can also SUPPORT THE PODCAST HERE.Resources mentioned during the episode:Part 1 - Where is the Resurrection Predicted in the Old Testament?Part 2 - Moses, Joshua, and Jesus: MORE "Third Day" References in the Old TestamentGrace Community ChurchChip's YouTube ChannelWatermark Gospel VideosChip's TikTok Videos

Jun 25, 202430 min

The 1916 Project | with Seth Gruber

How did things like third-trimester abortions, infanticide, euthanasia, critical race theory, transgender ideology, and drag queen story hour become embedded in modern American culture? In an age where children are exposed to pornographic material in their own school libraries and concerned parents are labeled as "domestic terrorists," where can we find the root cause of the underlying worldview that's currently dominating our society? And how did we end up here so quickly? The answers may shock you!In what may be one of the most controversial and revelatory podcast episodes to date, Frank interviews pro-life speaker Seth Gruber, author of the book and soon-to-be-released documentary called 'The 1916 Project', which explores how abortion became the linchpin of secularism and how it's destroying western civilization. As founder of the fastest-growing pro-life non-profit organization in America, The White Rose Resistance, Seth's jaw-dropping research has uncovered the dark history of Margaret Sanger, the founder of Planned Parenthood, and her disturbing, undeniable connection to Nazism, Darwinism, the Jewish Holocaust, and even BLM! During their conversation, Frank and Seth will answer questions like:What's so important about the years 1916 and 1619?What is eugenics, and why did Margaret Sanger specifically target black Americans?Is politics just a front for false religion, and what were Sanger's views on Christianity?Why does Planned Parenthood sponsor the distribution of puberty blockers and porn in children's libraries?What is the connection between the abortion pill and the gas used in the Nazi gas chambers?What's George Floyd got to do with it?How can you contend for life in a culture of death?Where can you catch a viewing of the film 'The 1916 Project'?This episode is rated PG-13, so please proceed with caution if you have young children in the room! No stone will be left unturned in this eye-opening conversation that will shed light on Sanger's satanic religious and political views, America's journey to "progressive" regression, and how you can fight for the future of the nation and the unborn. Pre-order your copy of 'The 1916 Project' today and be on the lookout for an upcoming podcast episode where Seth will return to dive even deeper into this topic!To view the entire VIDEO PODCAST, be sure to join our CrossExamined private community. It’s the perfect place to jump into great discussions with like-minded Christians while providing financial support for our ministry.You can also SUPPORT THE PODCAST HERE.Seth's WebsiteThe 1916 ProjectThe White Rose Resistance

Jun 21, 202448 min

Moses, Joshua, and Jesus: MORE "Third Day" References in the Old Testament | with Dr. Chip Bennett

Where can we find the concept of the third day being played out in the Old Testament? Esther, Isaac, Daniel, Jonah, and even Goliath point to the life and resurrection of Jesus Christ. But how do the stories surrounding these Old Testament figures relate to events in the New Testament that occurred both before and after the resurrection of Jesus? Once you see all of these connections, you won't be able to unsee them!Last week, podcast listeners were blown away by Dr. Chip Bennett's exposé of how Jesus is revealed in the Old Testament. And for this midweek podcast, he returns to unpack significant parallels that Bible-believing Christians need to know about! By exploring the richness of interpreting the Scriptures through the literary hermeneutic, Chip will explore key passages from the Old and New Testaments that show how God weaved these stories together to illustrate the Gospel's message beautifully. How is Jesus greater than Moses and David? What's the difference between how the Antiochian Church and the Alexandrian Church interpreted Scripture? How is Chip using TikTok to reach the next generation with the Gospel? Listen as Frank and Chip continue their discussion and uncover MUCH more in the second part of this eye-opening journey through the Bible that's guaranteed to cause a burning in your heart!To view the entire VIDEO PODCAST, join our CrossExamined private community. It’s the perfect place to jump into great discussions with like-minded Christians while providing financial support for our ministry.You can also SUPPORT THE PODCAST HERE.Resources mentioned during the episode:Listen to Part 1: Where is the Resurrection Predicted in the Old Testament?Grace Community ChurchChip's YouTube ChannelWatermark Gospel VideosChip's TikTok Videos

Jun 18, 202438 min

Where is the Resurrection Predicted in the Old Testament? with Dr. Chip Bennett

Jesus told His disciples that every story in the Old Testament points to Him. But what did He mean? If you look closely, you'll find that the Hebrew Bible contains 30+ "third-day" references and parallels to Jesus that fly under the radar for most readers. But where exactly are these resurrection prophecies located? And why do so many Christians have trouble picking them up and making the connection to the prophecies that were fulfilled through Jesus in the New Testament?This week, Dr. Chip Bennett, founding and leading pastor of Grace Community Church in Sarasota, FL, joins Frank to uncover some of the Old Testament resurrection parallels that often go unnoticed, even by dedicated students of the Bible. More than just your average pastor, Chip also holds a PhD in Systematic Theology and a Doctorate of Ministry and is here to enthusiastically unpack some of the third-day references that are hidden in plain sight and to give listeners a lesson on the significance of literary hermeneutics. During their conversation, Frank and Chip will answer questions like:Why is it so difficult for many Christians to see Jesus in the Old Testament?What was the inspiration behind the creed in 1 Corinthians 15?Is there a connection between Isaac, Esther, Daniel, Goliath, and Jesus?Did the New Testament writers read the Old Testament and purposely force these prophecies to be fulfilled?Is using this approach to interpret Scripture called typology or something else?This podcast episode is chock full of fascinating material that Chip will delve into at a rapid pace, so get your pen and paper ready! As he unveils some of the captivating connections between people and events of both the Old and New Testaments, you'll likely hear information you've never been exposed to! This episode is just the tip of the iceberg, so be sure to stay tuned for not one but TWO more episodes where Chip will continue to unpack what the Old Testament has to say about the promised Messiah.To view the entire VIDEO PODCAST, join our CrossExamined private community. It’s the perfect place to jump into great discussions with like-minded Christians while providing financial support for our ministry.You can also SUPPORT THE PODCAST HERE.Resources mentioned during the episode:Grace Community ChurchChip's YouTube ChannelWatermark Gospel VideosChip's TikTok Videos

Jun 14, 202448 min

What Does Biblical Inerrancy REALLY Mean? with Dr. Mike Licona

Is it possible that the Bible actually contains errors? And if so, how would these errors impact the message of the Gospel? These are fair questions that some Christians may be afraid to ask. But does an error or two discredit the overall authenticity and reliability of the Scriptures or the historicity of the Resurrection?For this midweek podcast, Dr. Mike Licona, author of the brand new book 'Jesus, Contradicted: Why the Gospels Tell the Same Story Differently' returns to continue unpacking the true meaning of biblical inerrancy and to explore the significance of compositional writing styles of the ancient world. What are some of the "errors" that can be found in the Old and New Testaments, and how do scholars attempt to reconcile some of these discrepancies? Why would God even allow the Bible to include mistakes? Do most Christians really have a high view of Scripture? And just how important was precise accuracy to ancient writers? All this and more will be discussed in the conclusion of this controversial (and important) talk surrounding the trustworthiness of the Bible.To view the entire VIDEO PODCAST, be sure to join our CrossExamined private community. It’s the perfect place to jump into great discussions with like-minded Christians while providing financial support for our ministry.You can also SUPPORT THE PODCAST HERE.Mike's book: Jesus, Contradicted: Why the Gospels Tell the Same Story DifferentlyListen to Part 1: Jesus, Contradicted? with Dr. Mike Licona

Jun 11, 202444 min

Jesus, Contradicted with Mike Licona

Do most Christians have the wrong definition of inerrancy? You may have noticed some pretty significant discrepancies between the different Gospel accounts in the New Testament—discrepancies that skeptic Bart Ehrman didn't hesitate to point out during past debates with Dr. William Lane Craig, Jimmy Akin, AND today's guest! Is there a way for Bible-believing Christians to harmonize these variations, or should we throw out the concept of Bible inerrancy altogether?This week, author, Christian apologist, and New Testament scholar Dr. Mike Licona sits down with Frank to expose the truth about "errors" in the Bible, specifically tackling some of Bart Ehrman's objections to the reliability of the New Testament. He'll also discuss the release of his new book, 'Jesus, Contradicted: Why the Gospels Tell the Same Story Differently', which is a resource aimed to help Christians navigate through textual variances. During the episode, Frank and Mike will answer questions like:What is the true meaning of divine inspiration?What is the Chicago Statement of Inerrancy, and what are some of its shortcomings?Did God dictate to the Gospel authors?Are there errors in the original Bible manuscripts?What is literary spotlighting, and how does it apply to the Resurrection narratives?Buckle your seatbelts, friends, because this podcast episode is likely going to make you uncomfortable by challenging much of what you've been taught (or assumed) about biblical inerrancy. Is it okay that the Bible doesn't have camera-like accuracy in some places? Listen as Dr. Licona helps us to take a fresh look at the doctrine of inerrancy and then decide for ourselves. And be sure to pick up a copy of the book, 'Jesus, Contradicted'!To view the entire VIDEO PODCAST, be sure to join our CrossExamined private community. It’s the perfect place to jump into great discussions with like-minded Christians while providing financial support for our ministry.You can also SUPPORT THE PODCAST HERE.Mike's book: Jesus, Contradicted: Why the Gospels Tell the Same Story DifferentlyDEBATE: Is the Bible Inerrant? (Mike Licona vs. Richard Howe)

Jun 7, 202448 min

Ep 458The BIGGEST Misconceptions Protestants Have About the Catholic Faith with Jimmy Akin

Do most Protestants have a good grasp on Roman Catholic theology or are they largely misunderstanding some of its core doctrines? While Protestants and Catholics share certain beliefs, there are also key doctrinal differences that have led to numerous church councils and theological debates throughout Church history. What are some of the most common misconceptions that many Protestants have about Roman Catholicism and what exactly does the Catholic Church teach about eternal salvation? For this midweek podcast, author and Catholic Apologist, Jimmy Akin, returns to set the record straight about the Catholic faith and to dispel some of the false ideas that Protestants have about the Roman Catholic Church. With his unique perspective as a former Protestant himself, Akin will unpack what it is that Catholics actually believe in regards to the Gospel, justification, baptism, purgatory, and much more! During their conversation, Frank and Jimmy will answer questions like: Why do Catholics consider the Apostle Peter to be the first Pope? What are some of the things that Protestants and Catholics agree on? Why was the Council of Trent important? How do Catholics define justification? Do Catholics believe that atheists can be saved? Does Roman Catholicism teach faith by works? In this friendly dialogue (not debate) between Frank and Jimmy, you'll get insight on why they both decided to switch churches on their faith journey as they talk about their own personal experiences with Protestantism and the Catholic Church. To learn more about the theology of Roman Catholicism from a Protestant perspective, grab a copy of the book 'Roman Catholics and Evangelicals: Agreements and Differences' (co-authored by the late Dr. Norman Geisler), and also endorsed by Jimmy. And be sure to subscribe to Jimmy's YouTube channel as well as his Mysterious World podcast! To view the entire VIDEO PODCAST be sure to join our CrossExamined private community. It’s the perfect place to jump into some great discussions with like-minded Christians while simultaneously providing financial support for our ministry. You can also SUPPORT THE PODCAST HERE. Jimmy's website: JimmyAkin.com Jimmy's podcast: Mysterious World or Watch on YouTube BOOK: Roman Catholics and Evangelicals: Agreements and Differences

Jun 4, 202443 min

Ep 457Debating Bart Ehrman About the Gospels with Jimmy Akin

When Christians suggest that the Bible is without error, what does that actually mean? And are there really good reasons to believe that the Bible, (specifically the New Testament) is both historically reliable and inerrant? Critics like Bart Ehrman raise challenging and thought-provoking questions about contradictions in the Gospels and Jesus' resurrection, but are they true contradictions or just apparent contradictions? For this week's podcast, Frank sits down with author and Catholic apologist, Jimmy Akin, to talk about his recent debate with the well-known atheist and UNC Chapel Hill professor, Bart Ehrman. Serving as a senior apologist on Catholic Answers, Jimmy will unpack how he used his seasoned debate skills to graciously disarm his opponent while laying out a good case for New Testament reliability and exploring the standards of writing in the first century. During their conversation, Frank and Jimmy will answer questions like: Did the Gospel writers remember and record the exact words of Jesus? Did Jesus have a twin brother who appeared to the disciples after the Resurrection? How do undesigned coincidences point towards New Testament reliability? Why are some of the New Testament events seemingly out of chronological order? Why did Bart Ehrman transition from a conservative fundamentalist Protestant Christian to now identifying as an atheist/agnostic? As Jimmy shares his unique strategy in approaching his dialogue with Ehrman, he'll also drop some insight on the importance of understanding the Bible's historical context, clarify the difference between truth and precision, and touch on why there are a variety of writing styles among the New Testament authors. This laid back and light-hearted podcast episode comes jam-packed with apologetics knowledge bombs so grab your pen and paper and prepare to learn more about what it really means for the New Testament to be reliable! And be sure to watch Akin and Ehrman's full debate on his YouTube channel HERE along with his fascinating podcast, 'Mysterious World'.

May 31, 202448 min

What Harrison Butker and Football Teach Us About Right and Wrong

Were Harrison Butker’s bold statements during his recent Benedictine College commencement speech worth all of the public backlash he received in response? Although many are now hailing the Super Bowl winning NFL kicker as a hero for speaking up, others are calling for him to be fired from the league altogether. What exactly did he say that caused so much outrage and what biblical truths can we gather from the controversial (and now viral) speech?For this midweek podcast, Frank unpacks Harrison Butker’s words from a biblical worldview and highlights how Butker called out some of the lies, harmful ideologies, and inconsistencies that our culture and national leaders have been feeding us. During this podcast episode, Frank will answer questions like:Does the book of James teach salvation by works?What does the game of football teach us about morality?Do Christians always have to be “nice” in order to be loving?Did Jesus ever engage in politics?How is Joe Biden “neglecting the weightier matters of the law”?Are biblical gender roles oppressive to women?Is comfort the true meaning of life?What are the pros and cons of becoming a Christian? Later in the episode, Frank will share his own personal experience of being canceled in corporate America due to writing his book ‘Correct, Not Politically Correct: About Same-Sex Marriage and Transgenderism‘ and how it launched him into ministry full-time. He’ll also talk about the importance of being willing to speak up (like Butker) as a means to fight back against cancel culture and to illustrate TRUE love, even if it comes at a cost.And if you want to learn more about how to stand up for truth in a toxic culture, consider enrolling at Frank’s alma mater, Southern Evangelical Seminary!To view the entire VIDEO PODCAST be sure to join our CrossExamined private community. It’s the perfect place to jump into some great discussions with like-minded Christians while simultaneously providing financial support for our ministry. You can also SUPPORT THE PODCAST HERE.

May 29, 202449 min

Who Is Living Inside Your Kid's Head? | with Shanda Fulbright

Why do your kids believe what they believe about the world and the purpose of life? Are you equipping them to make good decisions now and in the future when you’re no longer there to protect them? Will their knowledge of truth, logic, and God’s Word ultimately prevail against the conflicting (and sometimes hidden) messages they might hear from friends, teachers, and TikTok? If you’re a Christian parent, these are the questions that keep you up at night, but have no fear–the great Shanda Fulbright is here! As a mom, former California public school teacher, and certified apologist, Shanda is no stranger to the challenges Christian parents face during these crazy cultural times. In this week’s podcast episode, Shanda and Frank discuss the subtle ways that secular society is indoctrinating or “discipling” today’s youth with destructive and even anti-Christian ideologies. During their discussion, Frank and Shanda will answer questions like: What made Shanda question her faith as a 17-year old raised in the Church and what helped her overcome her doubts? What are the 3 key characteristics of “discipleship” and how is it more than just a religious term? What are 3 ways that the public school system is strategically discipling K-12 students? How did Shanda react when a teacher shared a book about transgender ideology with her son’s class? What do the statistics show about faith in God among America’s youth and their parents and what does that mean for the Church? What are Shanda’s top 3 tips for parents who want to be more intentional about discipling their kids? Parents and other caregivers–consider this your wake-up call! The reality is that your kids are being discipled by someone or some thing. If you don’t disciple them with THE truth, who will? We know you’ll benefit from this week’s podcast episode, and as a follow-up, consider enrolling your middle-school student in one of Shanda’s self-paced courses this summer, or join Shanda LIVE in her ‘Train Your Brain: An Introduction to Logic‘ PREMIUM course this fall! To view the entire VIDEO PODCAST be sure to join our CrossExamined private community. It’s the perfect place to jump into some great discussions with like-minded Christians while simultaneously providing financial support for our ministry. You can also SUPPORT THE PODCAST HERE. Shanda’s courses: Is Hell Real? Understanding a Place Nobody Likes to Talk About – Self-Paced Course Let’s Get Real: Examining the Evidence for God – Self-Paced Course Train Your Brain: An Introduction to Logic – Self-Paced Course Train Your Brain: An Introduction to Logic – PREMIUM Course Starts 9/9/2024 Other resources mentioned during the episode: Apologetics Curriculum for All Ages – 2nd Grade to Adult! Jonathan Haidt – Research and articles on effects of social media on adolescents

May 24, 2024

HELP! My Pastor Doesn't Talk About Cultural or Political Issues! with Tony Perkins

You love your pastor, but why won’t he address crucial cultural, moral, or political issues from the pulpit? Is there anything that you or your church can do about it? Furthermore, what risks lie ahead for faithful pastors who do actually speak out against the culture and rightly stand up for the truth of God’s Word? For this midweek podcast episode, pro-life advocate and political leader, Tony Perkins, returns to talk more about the need for Christians and pastors to engage in political issues, and to defend the biblical worldview in the public square. If your pastor or your church seems totally disengaged from the political world, how can you inspire a change of heart? Why do so many pastors choose to remain quiet on culturally taboo issues like the right to life and natural marriage? And what resources are available for those who want to lead the charge and equip people in the church on where the candidates and parties stand on the most important issues? Frank and Tony will discuss all of this and MUCH more in the conclusion of their talk on faith and politics! To view the entire VIDEO PODCAST be sure to join our CrossExamined private community. It’s the perfect place to jump into some great discussions with like-minded Christians while simultaneously providing financial support for our ministry. You can also SUPPORT THE PODCAST HERE. Resources mentioned during the episode: Part 1: The Top 3 Reasons Why Christians Should Be Involved in Politics with Tony Perkins Family Research Council: https://www.frc.org/ FRC Action: https://frcaction.org/ Pray Vote Stand: https://prayvotestand.org/ Tony’s website: TonyPerkins.com

May 21, 202431 min

The Top 3 Reasons Why Christians Should Be Involved in Politics | with Tony Perkins

Should Christians get involved with politics, or should we just stay out of the way because “religion and politics don’t mix”? While some Christians have the tendency to idolize political influence, others have gone to the opposite end of the spectrum, choosing to completely shy away from engaging in public policy altogether. What does the Bible and common sense have to say about this? This week Tony Perkins, the president of the Family Research Council who has worked with congress and presidents for decades, joins Frank to talk about the need for Christians to take politics seriously and use it as a means to advance the Gospel by protecting religious freedom and to love their neighbors by protecting them from evil for generations to come. As a pro-life/pro-family advocate and political leader with a background in both the U.S. Marine Corps and ministry, Tony will share some valuable insights into the current political landscape, urging Christians to actively participate in shaping laws and policies. During their conversation, Frank and Tony will answer questions like: How did Tony unexpectedly enter the realm of politics and why does he think more Christians should do the same? How can Christians be salt and light in the government and treat it as a mission field? What should Christians do when candidates for each party are morally compromised? How have Christians been negatively impacted by bad policies? What political issues can Christians disagree over? How can Christians and conservatives make real policy gains? A force for good in Washington, Tony will lay out just a few reasons why Christians should not only get involved in politics, but view it as a form of ministry. He and Frank will also address the latest controversy with Speaker of the House, Mike Johnson, explain the distinction between imposing religion and legislating morality, and lay out some of the key platform differences between Democrats and Republicans. And don’t miss the conclusion to this eye-opening conversation as Tony returns next week for the midweek podcast! To view the entire VIDEO PODCAST be sure to join our CrossExamined private community. It’s the perfect place to jump into some great discussions with like-minded Christians while simultaneously providing financial support for our ministry. You can also SUPPORT THE PODCAST HERE. Resources mentioned during the episode: Family Research Council: https://www.frc.org/ FRC Voter Guides: https://frcaction.org/ iVoterGuide: https://ivoterguide.com/ Tony’s website: TonyPerkins.com

May 17, 202448 min

The #1 Surprising Rule of Life | with J. Warner Wallace

Can Christians learn to love the same way God loves? Cold-case homicide detective turned Christian apologist, J. Warner Wallace, answers that question for us in his brand-new book ‘The Truth in True Crime: What Investigating Death Teaches Us About the Meaning of Life.’ But how exactly did researching some of his own murder investigations lead him to discover the truth about God’s nature and His love for humanity? For this midweek podcast episode, Jim returns to talk more about his new book and to share what he’s learned about marriage, justice, grace, and mercy through his deep study of contemporary true crime. What key quality is needed to be successful in life? Why do so many police officers struggle in their marriage? Why is pride such a dangerous sin? What’s the distinction between shame and guilt? All of these questions and more will be addressed as Frank and Jim wrap up this intriguing and insightful two-part discussion! To view the entire VIDEO PODCAST be sure to join our CrossExamined private community. It’s the perfect place to jump into some great discussions with like-minded Christians while simultaneously providing financial support for our ministry. You can also SUPPORT THE PODCAST HERE. Order Jim’s Book: The Truth in True Crime Listen to Part 1 of the discussion: The Truth in True Crime with J. Warner Wallace

May 14, 202444 min

The Truth in True Crime with J. Warner Wallace

Have you ever wondered why America is so obsessed with death and murder, or why some of today’s most popular podcasts, shows, and TV networks are all centered around the topic of true crime? What’s the reason for our curiosity with murder and what life lessons can we learn from studying even the worst of these true crime stories? If you’re a true crime junkie, this is the podcast episode for you! This week, our favorite cold-case homicide detective turned Christian apologist and author, J. Warner Wallace, sits down with Frank to talk about the inspiration behind his brand-new book, ‘The Truth in True Crime: What Investigating Death Teaches Us About the Meaning of Life‘, which explores 15 life-truths that he discovered through his study of the Scriptures and some of his most notorious murder investigations. During their conversation, Frank and Jim will answer questions like: Why are women especially drawn to the genre of true crime? How do men and women view identity differently? What is the true cause of trauma and PTSD? What are two common ways that identity is formed in people? How does humility contribute to human flourishing? Later in the episode, Jim will open up about his own personal journey through an unexpected season of identity crisis and reveal the most shocking discovery he made while writing the book. Be sure to pick up your copy of ‘The Truth in True Crime‘ and come back next week to hear the conclusion of Frank and Jim’s discussion on how true crime exposes certain truths about human nature. To view the entire VIDEO PODCAST be sure to join our CrossExamined private community. It’s the perfect place to jump into some great discussions with like-minded Christians while simultaneously providing financial support for our ministry. You can also SUPPORT THE PODCAST HERE. Order Jim’s Book: The Truth in True Crime

May 10, 202448 min

How Censorship Endangers You | with Seth Dillon

How is today’s censorship trend affecting your job, your child’s education, and your medical healthcare of all things? And what about the political right? Are they as guilty of imposing censorship on society as the far left? For this midweek podcast episode, Seth Dillon, CEO of The Babylon Bee, returns to speak more about the issue of censorship and how it’s restricting our freedoms in unimaginable and potentially devastating ways. Why are conservatives banning books from school libraries? How is wokism negatively impacting how doctors prescribe medicine? Is the distribution of porn protected under the First Amendment? And why can’t comedians be funny anymore? All of these questions and more will be addressed as Frank and Seth continue this ongoing conversation about the fight for free speech! To view the entire VIDEO PODCAST be sure to join our CrossExamined private community. It’s the perfect place to jump into some great discussions with like-minded Christians while simultaneously providing financial support for our ministry. You can also SUPPORT THE PODCAST HERE. Listen to Part 1: Censoring The Babylon Bee? with Seth Dillon

May 7, 202442 min

Censoring the Babylon Bee? | with Seth Dillon

What exactly constitutes “free speech” and falls under the protection of the First Amendment? As the political left increasingly advocates for (and often achieves) unconstitutional censorship, the line between what’s permissible and what’s not in public dialogue becomes increasingly blurred. In this age dominated by social media and cancel culture, who ultimately holds the authority in deciding what is or isn’t allowed in the public square? This week, Seth Dillon, CEO of The Babylon Bee, sits down with Frank to discuss concerns about big tech’s role in American censorship, why the Babylon Bee was censored, and how he’s combating it through satire and comedy using his popular Christian news satire website lovingly dubbed, “the definitive source of fake news you can trust”. You’ll also get to hear Seth’s recent congressional testimony where he defended the right to free speech during the House Energy and Commerce Subcommittee on Communications and Technology in Washington, D.C. During their conversation, Frank and Seth will answer questions like: What’s the difference between regulating conduct and regulating speech? Why is the LGBTQ+ community aligning itself with the ideology of Muslim terrorists? What is the “woke mind virus” and why are younger generations more susceptible to it? Does America love dogs more than babies? Why are euphemisms so powerful and how is the radical left using them to their advantage? Why was The Babylon Bee willing to risk being de-platformed from Twitter prior to Elon Musk gaining ownership? Later in the discussion, Seth will talk about the inspiration and backstory behind some of The Babylon Bee’s most hilarious headlines from this past week, touch on Vice President Kamala Harris’ recent statements about abortion, share some helpful tips on how all content creators can push against big tech’s attempt to silence you on social media, and unpack the worldview that’s motivating the anti-Israel protests on U.S. college campuses. It’s impossible to cram all of these topics into just one podcast episode, so be sure to join Frank and Seth on the upcoming midweek podcast for the conclusion of this important and eye-opening talk on censorship! To view the entire VIDEO PODCAST be sure to join our CrossExamined private community. It’s the perfect place to jump into some great discussions with like-minded Christians while simultaneously providing financial support for our ministry. You can also SUPPORT THE PODCAST HERE. House Energy and Commerce Subcommittee on Communications and Technology (3/8/2023) – Preserving Free Speech and Reining in Big Tech Censorship

May 3, 202448 min

The Fuel Behind the Fire: Anti-Israel Protests & American Universities

What’s driving the anti-Israel protests storming college campuses all across America? Schools like Columbia University, UCLA, Emory, Harvard, and Yale have been hit with massive pro-Palestinian mobs that have led to hundreds of arrests and violent threats against the Jewish student populations. Why are these angry (yet seemingly sophisticated) mobs targeting college campuses and how have they successfully managed to recruit students to join in the madness even at the threat of expulsion? In this midweek podcast, John guides us through a conversation investigating the ongoing anti-Israel protests as he also breaks down the geopolitical, historical, theological, and prophetic backdrop. He’ll also provide an update as to how the U.S. government is responding to these hostile demonstrations in real time and expose the true heart and motivation behind them. During the episode, John will answer questions like: What sparked this string of protests and what demands are being made? What would be the implications of a ceasefire from Israel? Why is a two-state solution impossible? How legitimate is the “Free Palestine” cause? What makes Israel a political barometer in the Middle East? If Hamas managed to defeat Israel, how would the U.S. be impacted? Why do many Muslims and citizens of Gaza support the flourishing of Israel? As you learn about the context surrounding the protests and the Israel-Hamas conflict, it’ll become more and more apparent why Christian apologists should have a vested interest in the nation of Israel. Take a listen as John reveals how politics is playing a major role in the recent rise of antisemitism on college campuses in the U.S. and explores how the Islamic worldview continues to fuel hostility between Jews and Arabs in the Middle East. And please continue to pray for the safety of Israel and a peaceable end to this ongoing war. To view the entire VIDEO PODCAST be sure to join our CrossExamined private community. It’s the perfect place to jump into some great discussions with like-minded Christians while simultaneously providing financial support for our ministry. You can also SUPPORT THE PODCAST HERE. Download Transcript

Apr 30, 20241h 8m

Does Christianity Still Make Sense? | with Dr. Bobby Conway

If God exists, then why are there so many church scandals? Why does racism exist and why are Christians so hypocritical? When it comes down to it, why does evil exist at all? In other words, does Christianity still make sense? This week Frank talks with author, philosopher, CIA instructor, and pastor of Image Church, Dr. Bobby Conway about his brand-new book, ‘Does Christianity Still Make Sense?: A Former Skeptic Responds to Today’s Toughest Objections to Christianity‘, where he documents his battle with unbelief and the steps he took to emerge successfully on the other side with his faith intact. How did a pastor with a thriving church and a national Christian apologetics platform plunge into an intense season of debilitating doubt and narrowly escape full out apostasy? Frank and Bobby will address this in detail throughout their conversation and answer questions like: How did Bobby’s season of doubt affect his life and overall mental health? Are church scandals a valid reason to leave Christianity? Are most Christians guilty of homophobia? Does Christianity devalue women? How are Christians being “love shamed”? Does science trump history? Does the American Church need a reformation? Are you or someone you know feeling trapped in the depths of doubt? Don’t lose hope because there’s a light at the end of the tunnel! Bobby’s new book will guide you through his own personal journey out of chronic doubt and uncover the answers he found to 20 of the toughest objections to Christianity. Be sure to pick up your copy of ‘Does Christianity Still Make Sense‘ TODAY! To view the entire VIDEO PODCAST be sure to join our CrossExamined private community. It’s the perfect place to jump into some great discussions with like-minded Christians while simultaneously providing financial support for our ministry. You can also SUPPORT THE PODCAST HERE. Bobby’s website: Christianity Still Make Sense Bobby’s book: Does Christianity Still Make Sense? Learn from Bobby at CrossExamined Instructors Academy

Apr 26, 202448 min

How to Evangelize Transgender Friends and Is the Bible Historical Fiction? Plus More Q&A

In this midweek podcast episode, Frank tackles a series of listener questions surrounding how to share your faith with transgender co-workers and how to understand God’s grace in relation to our free will. He’ll also respond to a common criticism about the historicity of the New Testament–is it just a work of historical fiction? During the episode, Frank will answer questions like: How do you spark a faith conversation with a transitioning or LGTBQ+ co-worker? If God wants all people to be saved, why will some people go to Hell? What does the Bible mean when it says that we will receive a new heart? What are some of the key distinctions between historical documents and historical fiction? Are the ancient non-Christian sources for Jesus more reliable than the eyewitness accounts? What is the consensus among New Testament scholars about the validity of the Gospels? This episode will help you to respond to objections about the reliability of the New Testament as Frank shares helpful resources from various apologists like C.S. Lewis and offers a few questions that you can ask someone who’s skeptical about whether or not the Bible is true. Do you have a question for Frank? Send it to [email protected] and maybe it will make the next Q&A podcast! To view the entire VIDEO PODCAST be sure to join our CrossExamined private community. It’s the perfect place to jump into some great discussions with like-minded Christians while simultaneously providing financial support for our ministry. You can also SUPPORT THE PODCAST HERE. Frank’s book: Correct, Not Politically Correct Got Questions (article): What Does the Bible Mean When It Says That We Will Receive a New Heart?

Apr 23, 202456 min

Why Objections Don’t Defeat the Truth of God

If God is good, why is there so much evil in the world? And if God wants us to trust Him and love Him, why does He stay so hidden? Those are two of the most powerful objections to Christianity. But even if you couldn’t come up with answers to these questions, is that reason enough to abandon the faith and embrace a different worldview? This week, Frank uses logic, reasoning, and modern day examples to explain that even if objections to Christianity cannot be fully answered, the evidence we do have for God far outweighs them. Or in his words, “don’t let what you don’t know cause you doubt what you do know.” He also takes the time to address a listener question and some long-term studies coming out that reveal some staggering (but not surprising) statistics about so-called gender dysphoria in adolescents. During the episode he’ll answer questions like: What are the implications of Richard Dawkins stating that he prefers to live in a Christian society? Were there socialists in the early church? How do other worldviews fall short of the “rights” that so many people today are clamoring for? What do mathematics, science, and logic teach us about theism? All of this and more will be addressed in this timely podcast episode that combines a modern message with timeless truth! To view the entire VIDEO PODCAST be sure to join our CrossExamined private community. It’s the perfect place to jump into some great discussions with like-minded Christians while simultaneously providing financial support for our ministry. You can also SUPPORT THE PODCAST HERE. Resources mentioned during the episode: Article: Puberty is Not a Disease Article: “Transgender” Kids Actually Have Other Mental Health Diagnoses Frank’s Book: Correct, Not Politically Correct Book: What’s Eating the Universe?

Apr 18, 202448 min

How to Answer the Toughest Arguments for Abortion | with Scott Klusendorf

This week, author of ‘The Case for Life‘ and pro-life expert Scott Klusendorf returns to unpack the implications behind the most popular pro-choice arguments. Are pro-lifers fighting for a theocracy? How can Christians refute “pro-choice” arguments without using the Bible? Will women die from illegal abortions if abortion is banned? What should you do if you attend a church that never speaks out against abortion? And does hardship justify homicide? All this and more will be discussed in the conclusion of this two-part podcast series which is a must-listen for anyone who cares about the rights of unborn children. To view the entire VIDEO PODCAST be sure to join our CrossExamined private community. It’s the perfect place to jump into some great discussions with like-minded Christians while simultaneously providing financial support for our ministry. You can also SUPPORT THE PODCAST HERE. Resources mentioned during the episode: Part 1: Is Donald Trump Helping or Hurting the Pro-Life Movement? Watch the Case for Life video: CaseForLife.com Scott’s Book: The Case for Life Scott’s Course: How to Convince People to Be Pro-Life (The Ethics of Abortion)

Apr 16, 202437 min

Is Donald Trump Helping or Hurting the Pro-Life Movement? | with Scott Klusendorf

What are we to make of Donald Trump’s recent statements on abortion? Are pro-life Americans winning or losing the battle to protect the rights of unborn children? What is the way forward? This week, author of ‘The Case for Life‘ and leading pro-life expert, Scott Klusendorf, joins Frank to analyze and unpack former president Trump’s statements regarding abortion and why it has created concern among pro-life advocates. During the episode, Frank and Scott will answer questions like: Why has the pro-life movement consistently lost the vote of the American public and what can pro-lifers do to win the upcoming referendums? What underlying issues may be motivating Trump to not seek a ban on abortion? Is he really pro-life? Is the “will of the people” our standard? What should pro-life politicians say? How can they avoid tripping over the “what about” arguments against abortion? What about race and incest? Why do pro-abortion people falsely claim that women who suffer miscarriages or require surgery for ectopic pregnancies be jailed if abortion is outlawed in certain states? Is the pro-life view inherently religious? Are we trying to establish a theocracy? Later in the episode, Frank and Scott will examine the concept of incrementalism and how it was used historically to fight slavery in the West. This eye-opening conversation will equip you to defend the sanctity of life as Scott exposes some of the weaknesses in the popular “pro-choice” arguments and explains some of the nuances and strategies needed to push the pro-life agenda forward politically. Interested in becoming a pro-life apologist yourself? Sign up for Scott’s SELF-PACED online course ‘How to Convince People to be Pro-Life‘ (or wait for the PREMIUM version of the course launching this August!) and tune-in next week for Part 2 of this highly engaging discussion. To view the entire VIDEO PODCAST be sure to join our CrossExamined private community. It’s the perfect place to jump into some great discussions with like-minded Christians while simultaneously providing financial support for our ministry. You can also SUPPORT THE PODCAST HERE. Resources mentioned during the episode: Watch the Case for Life video: CaseForLife.com Scott’s Book: The Case for Life Scott’s Course: How to Convince People to Be Pro-Life (The Ethics of Abortion)

Apr 12, 202448 min

How to Stop Wokeness and Stand for Truth | with Dr. James Lindsay

Are there any practical ways that Christians and conservatives can stop the encroachment of woke ideology in our schools, businesses, and local communities? While the recent push for DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion), critical theory, and transgender ideology may seem impossible to overcome, all hope is not lost! In the last podcast episode, Frank’s guest, international speaker, author, and leading CRT expert, Dr. James Lindsay broke down the foundational beliefs of critical theory and how this “wokeness” ideology is an exceedingly hostile threat to western civilization and our American freedoms. This week, Dr. Lindsay returns to offer some tips and strategies that you can put in place in an effort to battle this destruction force in the U.S. How did Dr. Lindsay use his creative writing skills to combat woke educators? What’s the best way for Christians to react to provocative events like the recent “Trans Visibility Day” that landed on Easter? How can you use your unique gifts and talents to make a difference? All that and more will be discussed in the conclusion of this essential two-part series! To view the entire VIDEO PODCAST be sure to join our CrossExamined private community. It’s the perfect place to jump into some great discussions with like-minded Christians while simultaneously providing financial support for our ministry. You can also SUPPORT THE PODCAST HERE. Connect with Dr. James Lindsay online: New Discourses Book: The Queering of The American Child

Apr 9, 202442 min

One Nation Under Wokeness | with Dr. James Lindsay

Is there an all out assault on common sense in the West? Over the last decade or so, proponents of “wokeness” have asserted crazy ideas like “men can get pregnant”, “whiteness is evil”, the extermination of Jews “from the river to the sea”, and kids should be sterilized through “gender-affirming care.” Where are these bizarre ideas coming from, what are they rooted in, and how are they shaping the future of America? This week, international speaker, author of ‘The Queering of The American Child,’ and leading expert on Critical Race Theory, Dr. James Lindsay, joins Frank to discuss the calculated attempt by socialists (and other Marxists in disguise) to establish a modern utopian society and take down all of western civilization through woke propaganda, immigration, and destroying the economy. During the podcast, Frank and Dr. Lindsay will answer questions like: What is the definition of “woke”? How is wokeness a religious cult and a “doctrine of conflict” that will never bring peace? What is gnosticism and how has it influenced the concept of Marxism? Why is this ideology specifically targeting kids? How does the open border benefit Marxists? Is private property a bad thing? Who are the “enemies” and targets of the woke movement? Dr. Lindsay’s knowledge and expertise on the subject of CRT has caused him to reject it completely and to sound the alarm on it through his now famous speech at last year’s European Union Parliament, his appearances with Joe Rogan, Jordan Peterson, Ben Shapiro, and also through his own podcast called ‘New Discourses.’ Throughout the episode, he’ll lay out the worldview of CRT and Marxism, the ultimate goals of wokism, and the potentially devastating impact that it will have on free nations. Why is America the primary target and what did Jesus have to say about these issues? All this and more will be addressed in Part 1 of this crucial discussion! To view the entire VIDEO PODCAST be sure to join our CrossExamined private community. It’s the perfect place to jump into some great discussions with like-minded Christians while simultaneously providing financial support for our ministry. You can also SUPPORT THE PODCAST HERE. Resources mentioned during the episode: Connect with Dr. James Lindsay online: New Discourses EU Speech: Woke: A Culture War Against Europe Article: Queer Theory is the Doctrine of a Sex-Based Cult

Apr 5, 202448 min

7 Archaeology Discoveries Associated with the Life (and Death) of Jesus | with Dr. Titus Kennedy

What historical evidence is there for people like Peter, Simon of Cyrene, Pontius Pilate, Jesus, Caiaphas, and other key figures in Jesus’s crucifixion? Seven people who had something to do with the trial of Jesus have been found through archaeology! Moreover, excavations in Israel have unearthed numerous archaeological finds that corroborate precisely what’s recorded in the Bible. But what if excavations in Israel are just the tip of the iceberg? Beyond Israel, has the wider ancient world yielded artifacts that shed light on the biblical narrative? And what about Jesus? Is there any archaeological evidence that leads us back to Him? For this midweek podcast episode, Frank invites author and field archaeologist, Dr. Titus Kennedy, to talk about his brand-new book ‘The Essential Archaeological Guide to Bible Lands: Uncovering Biblical Sites of the Ancient Near East and Mediterranean World.’ In the book, Dr. Kennedy explores the various archaeological discoveries across the entirety of the ancient world that provide evidence for the historical accuracy of the Bible. During the episode, Frank and Titus and answer questions like: How did Josephus become a historian for the Romans? How did the emperor Hadrian inadvertently leave a trail of evidence for Christianity? How much of the Holy Land has actually been excavated? What evidence suggests that the Israelites were in Egypt during the time of the Exodus? Minimalist vs. maximalist archaeologists – what’s the difference? Has archaeology ever contradicted the historical record of the Bible? What is the archaeological evidence for Jesus? Recognizing the great significance of the evidence that has been located in places like North Africa, Rome, Anatolia, and Mesopotamia, Titus has written this book as a modern resource for an area of archaeology that has gone relatively untouched for the past 30 years! This episode barely scratches the surface of what’s uncovered in the book so be sure to grab your copy of ‘The Essential Archaeological Guide to Bible Lands.’ And if you desire to go even deeper in exploring biblical archaeology, enroll in the brand-new online course called ‘Reasons for Faith‘ where Dr. Kennedy will serve as one of the LIVE instructors along with Dr. Stephen Meyer! To view the entire VIDEO PODCAST be sure to join our CrossExamined private community. It’s the perfect place to jump into some great discussions with like-minded Christians while simultaneously providing financial support for our ministry. You can also SUPPORT THE PODCAST HERE. Buy Dr. Titus Kennedy’s new book: https://a.co/d/hBSZQS5 Join Dr. Titus Kennedy LIVE in ‘Reasons for Faith’!: https://bit.ly/3U0p63V

Apr 2, 20241h 11m

He is Risen! Examining the Evidence for the Resurrection with Dr. Jonathan McLatchie

How did an itinerant preacher, born into poverty and raised in an obscure village, a man who never wrote a book or had a formal education, who was betrayed by his friends and ultimately crucified on a rugged cross, rise to become THE central figure in human history? Jesus of Nazareth has left an undeniable mark on the world and all of western society, surpassing the influence of any other person who has ever existed. But is it possible that the story of Jesus and His resurrection was invented by the authors of the New Testament? He is risen! In anticipation of Easter Sunday, Frank invites the skilled Christian apologist and evolutionary biologist, Dr. Jonathan McLatchie, to make the case for the resurrection through the exploration of New Testament scholarship. McLatchie, who’s done a number of debates in defense of the Christian faith, will share his insights on the evidence for the resurrection, the reliability of the New Testament, and point out the significance of some of the details found in the Gospels and the book of Acts. During their conversation, Frank and Jonathan will answer questions like: Do New Testament scholars believe that Jesus actually existed? Are there extra-biblical sources that corroborate the early persecution of Christians? Do non-Christian New Testament scholars view the NT as historically reliable? Is it likely that the Apostles and eyewitnesses were either deceived themselves OR lying about the resurrection? What is specialized information and how does it help support the truth of the book of Acts? McLatchie will also walk us through his two-step approach of defending the resurrection by using what’s called the maximum data case. Later in the episode, Dr. McLatchie will talk about his online ministry that aims to mentor Christians and ex-Christians who are struggling with doubt by offering live interaction with experts in various fields of Christian scholarship. Be sure to visit TalkAboutDoubts.com to learn more about this ministry and consider enrolling in the brand-new LIVE! online course called ‘Reasons for Faith‘ launching on 4/27, where Jonathan will join Dr. Stephen Meyer and a team of other leading apologists during livestreamed lectures to expound upon the best historical, scientific, philosophical, and archaeological evidence for the Christian faith! To view the entire VIDEO PODCAST be sure to join our CrossExamined private community. It’s the perfect place to jump into some great discussions with like-minded Christians while simultaneously providing financial support for our ministry. You can also SUPPORT THE PODCAST HERE. Jonathan’s website: https://jonathanmclatchie.com/ Jonathan’s ministry: Talk About Doubts Join Jonathan and Dr. Stephen Meyer LIVE! in ‘Reasons for Faith‘

Mar 29, 202448 min

Why Would a GOOD God Create People He Knew Would Go to Hell? Plus More Q&A

If God knew that millions or billions of people would not only sin, but in the end reject Him and therefore spend eternity in Hell, why would He create mankind in the first place? In other words, why would God create people He knew would go to Hell? Wouldn’t a “good” God create a universe where EVERYONE believes? This week, Frank responds to these and other listener questions surrounding various topics like conversational prayer, the fear of sharing your faith, and how to reconcile God’s foreknowledge with our free will. He’ll also address the assertion from some atheists and skeptics that theists must provide “extraordinary evidence for extraordinary claims”, even though they don’t hold themselves to the same (totally illogical) standards! You’ll also learn: Can God force free creatures to love Him? How have non-Christians like Richard Dawkins and Jordan Peterson led people to Christ? Should Christians always expect divine revelation during prayer? What’s a simple way to engage in theological conversations when you’re fearful? Why (and how) should Christians defend the faith in Corporate America? Later in the podcast, Frank shares some practical advice on how to combat wokism in the workplace. He’ll also briefly unpack a shocking event that transpired when a concerned mom encountered a man identifying as transgender in the women’s locker room at her local Planet Fitness. If you’ve ever been challenged in any of the areas highlighted in this week’s midweek podcast, Frank will offer a helpful list of additional resources that are relevant to each of the topics discussed, so be sure to check our list of helpful links below! To view the entire VIDEO PODCAST be sure to join our CrossExamined private community. It’s the perfect place to jump into some great discussions with like-minded Christians while simultaneously providing financial support for our ministry. You can also SUPPORT THE PODCAST HERE. Resources mentioned during the episode: BOOK: Chosen But Free by Norman Geisler BOOK: Coming to Faith Through Dawkins by Denis Alexander and Alister McGrath ARTICLE: Does God Whisper? – Part 1 by Greg Koukl ARTICLE: Does God Whisper – Part 2 by Greg Koukl BOOK: Decision Making and the Will of God by Garry Frieson and J. Robin Maxson ARTICLE: Sex at Work – by Frank Turek BOOK: Correct, Not Politically Correct – by Frank Turek

Mar 26, 202447 min

Is America Becoming a Police State? with Dinesh D’Souza

Is the U.S. government deliberately targeting patriotic Americans with conservative values? In a post 9/11 America, the necessary push to prevent Islamic terrorism opened the door for justice agencies to shift their focus to what they now call “domestic terrorists”. But what if your conservative, Christian beliefs have the potential to put you on the government’s radar as a domestic threat? This week, author, apologist, speaker, and political commentator, Dinesh D’Souza, joins Frank to discuss his new documentary film ‘Police State‘, which is sounding the alarm on the Deep State’s witch hunt of ordinary, law-abiding citizens who happen to be conservatives and/or Christians. D’Souza will share his own frightening run-in with the feds following the release of his film ‘Obama’s America‘, and expose how he was able to survive the shakedown and the attempted sabotage of his career. During their conversation, Frank and Dinesh will answer questions like: How did this targeting of U.S. citizens begin? What financial incentive is there to target “domestic terrorists”? Why does the Biden Administration desire an open border, and why are they allowing children to be trafficked? What can U.S. citizens do to protect themselves in such a corrupt society? Why does the government insist on prosecuting Trump but not Biden? What is the Red Referral Network and how can it benefit Christians and conservatives? In D’Souza’s live action dramatization (based on actual footage recorded at the scene), he’ll give you a glimpse of the horrific real-life events that devastated the lives of innocent people like Catholic pro-lifer, Mark Houck, a loving husband and father of seven. Could identifying as a pro-lifer, supporting natural marriage, or even opposing transgender ideology in your kid’s school be enough for you to be categorized as a “domestic terrorist”? Be sure to check out the crowdfunded film ‘Police State‘, and learn more about America’s move towards government domination and what you can do about it! To view the entire VIDEO PODCAST be sure to join our CrossExamined private community. It’s the perfect place to jump into some great discussions with like-minded Christians while simultaneously providing financial support for our ministry. You can also SUPPORT THE PODCAST HERE. Resources mentioned during the episode: Police State (Documentary Film)What’s So Great About Christianity? (Book)Red Referral NetworkOther Books & Films by Dinesh D’Souza Download Transcript

Mar 22, 202448 min

Can We Really Believe the Bible is Inerrant? Plus More Q&A

Do you have to believe that the Bible is completely without error to be a true Christian? If you don’t agree with the Bible, you ultimately find yourself at odds with the teachings of Jesus and that’s never a good idea. But if both the Old and New Testaments have discrepancies, why should we consider our Bible to be inspired? This week, Frank dives into the issue of the inspiration of Scripture and tackles several questions from the audience, briefly discussing topics like abortion, free will, and God’s sovereignty. He’ll also examine some of the apparent contradictions in the Bible and offer insights from scholars and theologians regarding the variations between the eyewitness testimonies recorded in the New Testament. During the episode, Frank will answer questions like: Do humans beings inevitably make mistakes? If so, how can we trust the Bible? If everything happens for a reason, do we still have free will? How did St. Augustine approach the inerrancy of Scripture? Why is it important to have an eternal perspective? Does the parable of the landowner contradict the promise of rewards in heaven? Additionally, Frank will take us into the cosmic realm and explore the implications of the Big Bang on the creation story in Genesis. For those wanting to go deeper into these questions, Frank shares his recommended reads to expand their understanding. If grappling with challenging passages in the Bible has been a hurdle for you, this episode is a must-listen! By the conclusion of this podcast, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of how to interpret the Bible within its literary and historical framework, empowering you to steer clear of common misinterpretations of Scripture. To view the entire VIDEO PODCAST be sure to join our CrossExamined private community. It’s the perfect place to jump into some great discussions with like-minded Christians while simultaneously providing financial support for our ministry. You can also SUPPORT THE PODCAST HERE. Resources mentioned in the episode: Book: The Big Book of Bible Difficulties by Norman Geisler and Thomas Howe Book: Seven Days That Divide the World by John Lennox Book: I Don’t Have Enough Faith to Be an Atheist by Norman Geisler and Frank Turek

Mar 19, 202451 min

Do You Have “Blood on Your Hands”? 3 Questions About “Trans Rights”

Do you have blood on your hands? Are Christian beliefs motivating trans people to commit the unthinkable act of suicide? The alarming prevalence of depression among people battling gender dysphoria has prompted advocates of the transgender movement to demand political action, proposing that the solution lies in the push for “trans rights”. But what happens when the pursuit of these “rights” collide with basic human rights? This week, Frank tackles a very sensitive question from a listener regarding the outcry for more “trans rights” by the parents of a young trans person who tragically decided to end his life prematurely. As Frank shares some of the details of this heartbreaking story, he’ll address the erroneous notion that being in opposition to “trans rights” is what caused the untimely death of their child. During this podcast episode, Frank will answer questions like: What are trans rights? How do they collide with basic human rights? What are the main conditions surrounding trans suicide? Does social acceptance lessen the likelihood of suicide among transgender people? How did a high school in Virginia fail in protecting not one, but two teenage victims of sexual assault? How do trans activists bully people? What is the best way to love someone struggling with gender dysphoria? Is it approval? Frank will also highlight a few examples of how “trans rights” have compromised the overall safety and privacy of young women and briefly discuss how so-called gender affirming care has contributed to the current mental health crisis. Later in the episode, Frank will identify the root cause of the staggering suicide rates among transgender people and explore solutions that can offer true healing for those within the trans community. To learn more about the major flaws of transgender ideology, be sure to pick up the updated and expanded copy of Frank’s book, ‘Correct, Not Politically Correct: About Same-Sex Marriage and Transgenderism‘. To view the entire VIDEO PODCAST be sure to join our CrossExamined private community. It’s the perfect place to jump into some great discussions with like-minded Christians while simultaneously providing financial support for our ministry. You can also SUPPORT THE PODCAST HERE. Resources mentioned during the episode: Article: A Landmark Finnish Study is Changing How We Approach Transgender Kids Article: Adversity is the Key to Raising Resilient Kids (highlights Abigail Shrier’s new book ‘Bad Therapy‘) Frank’s Book: Correct, Not Politically Correct Download Transcript

Mar 15, 202448 min

Does the Resurrection of Jesus Prove He is the Jewish Messiah? with Eric Chabot

If Jesus rose from the dead, wouldn’t that also demonstrate beyond a reasonable doubt that the Messianic prophecies were about Him? Even if you can convince an orthodox Jew that the resurrection actually happened, it still may not be enough to persuade them that Jesus is the promised Messiah of the Old Testament. Where exactly is the disconnect and why do so many Jews (and even Christians) have trouble detecting the link between these prophecies and the events described in the Gospels? This week, Frank invites Eric Chabot, author of the book ‘The Resurrection of the Jewish Messiah‘, and contributor to the new book, ‘Faith Examined‘, to explore the Old Testament’s references to the Messiah and the great significance of the literary theme of the third day throughout the Scriptures. Serving as the chapter leader of Ratio Christi at The Ohio State University, Eric will share how Ratio Christi is reaching college students with the Gospel on his local campus and also touch on why there is a Jewish aversion to accepting Jesus as the Messiah. During their conversation, Frank and Eric will answer questions like: What strategies does Ratio Christi use to engage students on The Ohio State campus? How has the attitude towards religion shifted in recent years at Ohio State? Why do Jews often avoid Isaiah 53? What’s so special about 1 Corinthians 15? Do Messianic prophecies specifically promise that the Messiah will rise from the dead? What is the commonality between Jews who had previously claimed to be the Messiah prior to Jesus? As you’ll hear during this midweek podcast episode, key passages from the Old and New Testaments include symbolism, typology, and metaphors, all pointing to the reality that Jesus meets all of the qualifications of the Jewish Messiah. Because of his background growing up in a Jewish community, Eric has a passion for drawing Jewish people to Christ and has used these clues from the Scriptures to foster meaningful conversations with people in that demographic. If you want to dig deeper into the significance of the Messianic prophecies, be sure to pick up a copy of Eric’s book ‘The Resurrection of the Jewish Messiah‘ and also read his chapter on this topic in the new book written by CIA graduates called ‘Faith Examined: New Arguments for Persistent Questions, Essays in Honor of Dr. Frank Turek.’ To view the entire VIDEO PODCAST be sure to join our CrossExamined private community. It’s the perfect place to jump into some great discussions with like-minded Christians while simultaneously providing financial support for our ministry. You can also SUPPORT THE PODCAST HERE. RESOURCES MENTIONED DURING THE EPISODE: Faith Examined book: https://a.co/d/hvS13kK The Resurrection of the Jewish Messiah: https://a.co/d/1AvTNHd

Mar 12, 202443 min

The #1 Doctrine That Answers Christianity’s Toughest Questions with Dr. Tim Stratton

It’s the age old question–if God is sovereign over all things then how do we have free will? And if God controls everything, does that make Him the author of evil since He causes humans to sin? How do we reconcile a good God with all of the pain and suffering that’s happening in the world? It can seem like a bit of a conundrum for Christians, and the lack of satisfactory answers has caused many people to turn away from God. But what if there was a doctrine or school of thought that could help us make sense of these seemingly intractable problems? Joining Frank on the podcast this week is CIA graduate and professor of Theology at Trinity Theological Seminary, Tim Stratton, who has spent his fair share of time studying these dillemmas. So much time in fact, that this centuries old school of thought known as “Mere Molinism” became the focus of his doctoral dissertation. During the episode, Frank and Tim will answer questions like: What event in his personal life caused Tim to question his former Calvinist beliefs? Where does the term Molinism come from? What are the two “main ingredients” of Molinism? How does Molinism compare to Arminianism and Calvinism? What is the proper interpretation of Romans 9? How does Molinism solve the problem of evil? How does Avengers: Infinity War and Endgame apply to Molinism? If you’ve ever struggled with the problem of evil or wondered how we can possibly steer our own ship when God is completely omniscient, then this episode will definitely give you a few light bulb moments! For more information on this topic, be sure to check out Tim’s contribution to Faith Examined (a collection of essays written by CIA graduates) or Tim’s book ‘Human Freedom, Divine Knowledge, and Mere Molinism‘. To view the entire VIDEO PODCAST be sure to join our CrossExamined private community. It’s the perfect place to jump into some great discussions with like-minded Christians while simultaneously providing financial support for our ministry. You can also SUPPORT THE PODCAST HERE. RESOURCES MENTIONED DURING THE EPISODE: Faith Examined book: https://a.co/d/hvS13kK Free Thinking Ministries: https://freethinkingministries.com/ Tim’s book on Mere Molinism: https://a.co/d/bBWr0u1 In-Person CIA (Charlotte, NC): https://crossexamined.org/what-is-cia/ CIA Online 2024: https://bit.ly/3T8Unjw

Mar 8, 202448 min

The Surprising Rebirth of Belief in God with Justin Brierley - Part 2

Can a purely materialistic worldview account for concepts like human dignity, moral absolutes, or objective meaning? In a surprising (and encouraging) turn of events, many who once held to an atheistic worldview are beginning to see that a search for meaning without God is ultimately futile. As this realization continues to permeate the minds of prominent intellectuals within the new atheist movement, will this spark a new interest in faith conversations and even Christianity itself? This week, Justin Brierley returns to talk more about his new book (and podcast), ‘The Surprising Rebirth of Belief in God: Why New Atheism Grew Old and Secular Thinkers Are Considering Christianity Again‘, as well as explore the positive impacts of Christianity on contemporary society and its overarching role in uplifting humanity. Why did Christianity spread so quickly in the ancient world? Was Julias Caesar a hero or a tyrant? Why are people flocking to hear Jordan Peterson speak about the Bible of all things? All of this and more will be discussed in the conclusion of this special two-part series! To view the entire VIDEO PODCAST be sure to join our CrossExamined private community. It’s the perfect place to jump into some great discussions with like-minded Christians while simultaneously providing financial support for our ministry. You can also SUPPORT THE PODCAST HERE. Justin’s book: https://justinbrierley.com/the-surprising-rebirth-of-belief-in-god/ The Surprising Rebirth podcast: https://justinbrierley.com/surprisingrebirth/

Mar 5, 202435 min

The Surprising Rebirth of Belief in God | with Justin Brierley - Part 1

Could we be witnessing a return of belief in God during our generation? It seems that the Christian narrative that shaped the West has been replaced by sweeping secularism. But is that the end of the story? In recent years, a number of highly intellectual atheists have abandoned their secularism and found themselves surprised by the continuing resonance and relevance of Christianity in today’s modern world. Is it possible that the new atheist movement is now dealing with a massive downward spiral of its own? And what’s pushing this new generation of secular thinkers to reconsider the Christian worldview in a positive light? This week, Frank speaks with the one and only Justin Brierley, former host of the popular show ‘Unbelievable’ and author of the new book, ‘The Surprising Rebirth of Belief in God: Why New Atheism Grew Old and Secular Thinkers Are Considering Christianity Again.’ In conjunction with the release of the book, Justin is here to share the details on his new documentary podcast of the same title, and how this project has reignited his hope for the survival of the Christian faith in secular society. During the episode, Frank and Justin will answer questions like: Why did Justin end his time on ‘Unbelievable’? What is the focus of Justin’s new podcast? What contributed to the rise of New Atheism after 9/11? Is Richard Dawkins a “Christian Atheist?” Why did Christianity fuel the modern scientific revolution? Who are the prominent voices leading the exodus of new atheism? Justin and Frank will also touch on some of the splits within the new atheist movement and highlight the ways in which atheism maintains its own version of dogmatism and religiosity. Want to dive deeper into the unfolding story of ‘The Surprising Rebirth of Belief in God’? Be sure to check out Justin’s new book and podcast! To view the entire VIDEO PODCAST be sure to join our CrossExamined private community. It’s the perfect place to jump into some great discussions with like-minded Christians while simultaneously providing financial support for our ministry. You can also SUPPORT THE PODCAST HERE. Justin’s book: https://justinbrierley.com/the-surprising-rebirth-of-belief-in-god/ The Surprising Rebirth podcast: https://justinbrierley.com/surprisingrebirth/

Mar 1, 202448 min

Navigating the Digital Age: Youth, Technology, and Social Media Survival

Is social media turning your kids into digital zombies? You wouldn’t believe how much time the average person will spend scrolling their phone in a lifetime, but the effects that endless scrolling is having on today’s youth is becoming more and more apparent. Is there anything that concerned parents can do to safeguard the well-being of vulnerable children, teens, and young adults from the tech industry’s attacks? In this midweek podcast episode, Jorge Gil sounds the alarm on the negative impact that the overuse of technology is having on our modern culture and how it’s brainwashing younger generations. A pressing issue hiding in plain sight, parents and even grandparents have the huge responsibility to stay in the know when it comes to their children’s online interactions. During this episode, Jorge will answer questions like: In what ways is social media lying to you and your children? What is the connection between social media and depression rates among young people? What practical rules can you put in place to protect kids from their devices? How long does the average person spend scrolling everyday? How can Christians use technology for good instead of evil? Phone addiction doesn’t discriminate, but the good news is, you can do something about it if you tackle it now! This episode will give you a lot to think about as Jorge exposes the dangers of allowing young people to have too much access to social media without any accountability. Jorge will also give you the tools you need to fight back against the tech industry’s digital assault on your family and share practical advice on how to use technology in a way that honors God. To view the entire VIDEO PODCAST be sure to join our CrossExamined private community. It’s the perfect place to jump into some great discussions with like-minded Christians while simultaneously providing financial support for our ministry. You can also SUPPORT THE PODCAST HERE. Resources mentioned during the episode: Article: Has the Smartphone Destroyed a Generation Article: The Tech Industry’s War on Kids Book: American Girls: Social Media and the Secret Lives of Teenagers Book: A Practical Guide to Culture: Helping the Next Generation Navigate Today’s World

Feb 27, 202443 min

From Gangs to the Gospel: An Inside Look at the Faith Journey of Ruslan KD

Where do you go to find good Christian commentary on current events happening in pop-culture? YouTube, TikTok, Instagram, and other social media channels have created an almost endless online space for Christians to defend the faith and weigh in on cultural issues. But what has been the overall impact of Christian content creation and are most Christian content creators using their influence in a way that truly gives glory to God? This week, Frank sits down with one of today’s most well-known and relatable Christian YouTubers, Ruslan KD. A refugee from Baku, Azerbaijan, Ruslan moved to the U.S. as a child and over the years slowly made the transition from being a troubled gang member to a devout follower of Jesus Christ. Covering a variety of topics from pop culture, to theology, apologetics, and even politics, Ruslan’s down-to-earth content has helped him gain a massive following, attracting Christians and non-Christians from all walks of life. During their conversation, Frank and Ruslan will answer questions like: How did Ruslan transition from atheism to Christianity and what did his overall faith journey look like? What makes Greg Laurie stand out as one of Ruslan’s favorite past guests? How and why did Ruslan make the transition from a successful Hip Hop artist to a successful Christian YouTuber (seemingly overnight)? Why is Ruslan such a big fan of the Joe Rogan podcast? How is the current moral decline we see happening in culture leading more people to Christ? What advice does Ruslan have to offer for Christian content creators? As Ruslan shares his story, you’ll get the inside scoop (along with some shocking details) on his past traumas, and how all of this (plus an apologetics book recommendation) ultimately led him to lean into the good news of the Gospel. Regardless of your faith or cultural background, Ruslan will offer you a fresh perspective on trending topics that’s grounded in compassion and biblical truth. And be sure to subscribe to Ruslan’s YouTube channel for more cultural commentary from a Christian worldview! To view the entire VIDEO PODCAST be sure to join our CrossExamined private community. It’s the perfect place to jump into some great discussions with like-minded Christians while simultaneously providing financial support for our ministry. You can also SUPPORT THE PODCAST HERE. Follow Ruslan KD on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@RuslanKD Book Ruslan for a speaking event: https://www.kingsdreament.com/booking

Feb 23, 202448 min

The Lazy Approach to Evangelism | with Eric Hernandez

Is it necessary to have all the answers to complex theological or cultural questions when talking to non-Christians? Absolutely not! But the fear of not having a response, let alone a convincing one, can be overwhelming, leading many Christians to shy away from sharing their beliefs. When you feel trapped in such situations, is there an easy way out? Christian apologist and author Eric Hernandez knows a thing or two about how to navigate tough conversations with skeptics. This week, Frank invites Eric on the show to talk about his new book ‘The Lazy Approach to Evangelism: A Simple Guide for Conversing with Nonbelievers,’ a wonderful resource for Christians who want to be more effective as they engage non-Christians with the Gospel (think ‘Tactics’ combined with ‘I Don’t Have Enough Faith to Be an Atheist’!). During the episode, Frank and Eric role play through a lively debate Eric recently had with a feminist lawyer on abortion and answer questions like: What are the 5 essential tools for “lazy apologetics”? Rebutting vs. refuting – what’s the difference? How did Eric stump a pro-choice advocate? How can Christians defend the faith when talking to people who don’t believe the Bible? What two principles did the Apostle Paul instruct us to use when dialoguing with non-Christians? What did Jesus do when He was confronted with a well-packaged logical fallacy? Evangelism can be tough at times, but it’s a lot easier when you get a good grasp on how to spot faulty and inconsistent ideas. As you’ll hear during this conversation, learning how to graciously shift the burden of proof to your opponent can make a world of difference. Want to learn more about how to master the art of lazy apologetics? Make sure to grab your copy of ‘The Lazy Approach to Evangelism‘ today! To view the entire VIDEO PODCAST be sure to join our CrossExamined private community. It’s the perfect place to jump into some great discussions with like-minded Christians while simultaneously providing financial support for our ministry. You can also SUPPORT THE PODCAST HERE. Eric’s book: The Lazy Approach to Evangelism Eric’s website: http://www.erichernandezministries.com/ Debate: Eric vs. Feminist Lawyer on Abortion Texas Apologetics: TexasApologetics.org

Feb 20, 202454 min

Living in the DAZE of Deception | with Jack Hibbs

Have you ever believed something that you discovered later on just wasn’t true? In an upside down world where lies are well-packaged and truth is constantly suppressed, it’s no wonder that both Christians and non-Christians alike have fallen prey to mass deception. But if the Church is struggling to recognize truth from error, what hope is there for people in the secular world who aren’t being guided by the unfailing Word of God? This week, Pastor Jack Hibbs of Calvary Chapel Chino Hills joins Frank to discuss the inspiration behind his brand-new (and already best-selling) book ‘Living in the Daze of Deception: How to Discern Truth from Culture’s Lies.’ Written in the midst of the unforgettable COVID-19 outbreak, Jack explores the different forms of deception that have been a stumbling block to Christians and secular society, and also provides guidance on how to detect it if and when it comes your way. During the episode, Frank and Jack will answer questions like: Why did Jack initially reject the idea of writing this book and what eventually changed his mind? How did Jack become the founding pastor of Calvary Chapel Chino Hills and how did the pandemic specifically impact church attendance? What convinced Jack to re-open his church during the pandemic? Does the Bible instruct Christians to ALWAYS obey authorities, no matter what? How are Christians being deceived by other Christians in church? Is the transgender craze actually a “new” phenomenon? Jesus warned us to “watch out that no one deceives you”, which is why it’s crucial for all believers to have a solid biblical foundation and to make disciples. As Jack shares personal encounters he’s had as a pastor, you’ll hear real-life examples of how truth can bring healing, even in the aftermath of past deception. If you want to avoid becoming a future victim of misinformation and doctrines of demons, make sure you grab a copy of ‘Living in the Daze of Deception‘! To view the entire VIDEO PODCAST be sure to join our CrossExamined private community. It’s the perfect place to jump into some great discussions with like-minded Christians while simultaneously providing financial support for our ministry. You can also SUPPORT THE PODCAST HERE. Jack’s book: https://a.co/d/ap0rzjS Jack’s website: https://jackhibbs.com/ Jack’s podcast: https://podcast.jackhibbs.com/ Jack’s church: https://calvarycch.org/

Feb 16, 202448 min

The Top 10 Hasty Generalizations That Plague Our Society Today

Have you ever had someone jump to false conclusions about you based on a single comment or tweet? That’s what you call a hasty generalization, and people on both sides of the political and theological aisle have been guilty of committing this logical fallacy, many times resulting in the marginalization of whomever is on the receiving end of the accusation. In this current season of political chaos, how can you speak your mind (and share the truth) without falling into the trap of becoming a victim (or maybe even a perpetrator) of these snap judgments? This week, Frank addresses 10 hot-button topics in a single podcast episode! How will he cram so much in so little time? Hastily! In this lightning fast discussion on politics, religion, and logical fallacies, Frank will answer questions like: Is it racist to care about border security? Does being concerned about racial disparities mean that a person is “woke”? Is it divisive to call out heresy in church? How did Frank respond when someone called him a bigot? Do Christians seem to carry a lot of political influence as of late? What did the “He Gets Us” ad campaign get wrong…again? Later in the episode, Frank responds to an email from a skeptic who made a few hasty generalizations in regards to the previous podcast episode featuring Eric Metaxas. Whether it’s political issues like border security and election fraud or theological debates like a young earth versus an old earth, we shouldn’t make assumptions without having sufficient information. Want to learn more about how to avoid hasty generalizations? Consider attending the Fearless Faith conference in Xenia, OH this upcoming weekend (February 16-17)! To view the entire VIDEO PODCAST be sure to join our CrossExamined private community. It’s the perfect place to jump into some great discussions with like-minded Christians while simultaneously providing financial support for our ministry. You can also SUPPORT THE PODCAST HERE.

Feb 13, 202456 min

Is America Headed for Disaster? | with Eric Metaxas

Is America headed down a dark path similar to that of Nazi Germany? If history has shown us anything, it’s that bad things happen when Christians don’t collectively speak out against evil. The German Church of the 1930’s is a great example of what NOT to do in a tumultuous time of political crisis, but has the American Church fallen into the same passive trap of doing nothing while evil slowly tightens its grip on our country? The groundbreaking ‘Letter to the American Church‘ has hopped off bookshelves across the country, and has now become a brand-new documentary film serving as the final clarion call to sleeping Christians and conservatives. This week, the author of the best-selling book that inspired the film and popular radio host, Eric Metaxas, joins Frank to talk about the movie in detail and to expose the inevitable doom that awaits America if the Church doesn’t wake up now! During the episode, Frank and Eric will answer questions like: What are some of the similarities between 1930’s Germany and the West today? What mistakes did the Church in Germany make and what should Christians in America do differently? Are patriotic Christians guilty of Christian Nationalism? What should you do if your church isn’t concerned about politics? Why does Eric still maintain hope for America? From open borders to trans ideology, mass abortions and critical race theory, there’s more than enough issues that the Church MUST confront head-on while we still have the chance. As you’ll hear during this episode, when people are doing evil, Christians are morally obligated to stand up just like Jesus did! How can you make a difference? Start by visiting LetterToTheAmericanChurch.com so that you can watch the film for FREE, share it, and learn how to make your voice heard during this unprecedented time in American history! To view the entire VIDEO PODCAST be sure to join our CrossExamined private community. It’s the perfect place to jump into some great discussions with like-minded Christians while simultaneously providing financial support for our ministry. You can also SUPPORT THE PODCAST HERE. Eric’s website: https://ericmetaxas.com/ Eric’s book: https://a.co/d/dWWQ3bV Watch the film: https://lettertotheamericanchurch.com/

Feb 9, 202448 min

10 Salvations and Takin’ it to the Streets with Tytus Jones

It’s a busy week here at CrossExamined! In this midweek podcast episode, Frank reports on the biggest campus event in the history of our ministry and several opportunities for you to get involved in apologetics wherever you are. Then, Phoenix Hayes and Tytus Jones show how we can effectively engage urban communities with the Gospel. Tytus is a CrossExamined team member and Christian YouTuber who specializes in the unique field of urban apologetics and why it’s needed in the Church today. Having personally encountered friends and loved ones who began to identify as “Hebrew Israelites”, Tytus has used these interactions as inspiration to create content that offers a biblical, apologetic response to various identity-based cult groups. During their talk, Phoenix and Tytus will answer questions like: What is Urban Apologetics and what resources are available on the topic? Who are the Hebrew Israelites and what are their core beliefs? How did debating a Hebrew Israelite affect Ty’s faith journey? What attitude do Hebrew Israelites typically hold toward Jews? What is the appeal of Hebrew Israelism and what are some of the inconsistencies in their worldview? What is the Yoruba tradition and how have celebrities like Beyonce helped to popularize it? Urban apologetics often seeks to answer the popular (and false) notion that Christianity is just “the white man’s religion.” If you know someone who believes themselves to be a Hebrew Israelite or has now become a practitioner of African spirituality, this is the episode for you! And be sure to subscribe to Ty’s YouTube channel to learn more about urban apologetics! To view the entire VIDEO PODCAST be sure to join our CrossExamined private community. It’s the perfect place to jump into some great discussions with like-minded Christians while simultaneously providing financial support for our ministry. You can also SUPPORT THE PODCAST HERE. Join Ratio Christi: https://ratiochristi.org/join/ Follow Ty on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TytusJones Barack Obama vs. The Black Hebrew Israelites by Vocab Malone https://a.co/d/4F6w1VD Urban Apologetics by Eric Mason https://a.co/d/ddufLlP Download Transcript

Feb 6, 202439 min

Did Jesus REALLY Rise From the Dead? On the Resurrection (Vol.1) | with Dr. Gary Habermas

What would it take to prove beyond a reasonable doubt that Christianity is true? If God exists and Jesus rose from the dead, then Christianity is true. Case closed! The BIG question is, what evidence do we have in support of these truth claims? Furthermore, are skeptics and non-Christians ready and willing to give the resurrection some serious thought and explore the facts? In this much anticipated podcast episode, Frank invites the great scholar, author, and resurrection expert, Dr. Gary Habermas, on the show to discuss the first volume of his magnum opus, ‘On the Resurrection: Volume 1-Evidences.’ Literally decades in the making, Gary sets the record straight on the historical resurrection, responding to common atheist objections, and exposing the areas of consensus in mainstream scholarship surrounding the major events written about in the Gospels. During the episode, Frank and Gary will answer questions like: What inspired Gary to dedicate his life to researching this topic? What kept Gary from converting to Buddhism? Why is it important for Christians to get familiar with the evidence for the resurrection? Should Christians appeal to the Gospels when arguing for the resurrection? Isn’t that circular reasoning? Why do naturalism and the problem of evil fail to disprove the resurrection? It’s impossible to touch on everything covered in this massive 1000+ page resurrection investigation during a single episode, but Frank and Gary will address things like the significance of near death experiences (NDEs), share helpful insights from an unlikely source (Bart Ehrman), and talk about how the resurrection brought comfort to Gary during one of the most painful seasons of his life. Be sure to pick up your hard copy of this astonishing work before it sells out! To view the entire VIDEO PODCAST be sure to join our CrossExamined private community. It’s the perfect place to jump into some great discussions with like-minded Christians while simultaneously providing financial support for our ministry. You can also SUPPORT THE PODCAST HERE. Order Gary’s book from Amazon: https://a.co/d/hU8nEoP

Feb 2, 202448 min

Help! My Loved One Says I’m Toxic! | with Alisa Childers and Tim Barnett

What do you do when someone calls you “toxic” and says they don’t want you in their life anymore? Is it even possible to reason with someone who rejects reason and objective truth? Because deconstruction can manifest itself in various ways and across various types of relationships, there is no one-size-fits all approach to these questions. But how do you determine what to say, how to say it, and when to even set your own personal boundaries in conversations about faith and doubt? This week, Alisa Childers and Tim Barnett return to continue the discussion on their brand-new book, ‘The Deconstruction of Christianity: What It Is, Why It’s Destructive, and How to Respond.’ Frank, Alisa, and Tim will unpack some of the challenges that come with walking alongside people in the process of deconstruction and tips on how Christians can navigate these unique challenges. What’s the connection between deconstruction and critical theory? Should you feel guilty if you fail to successfully reach an ex-vangelical? How can you discern the motivation behind a person’s decision to deconstruct? All this and more will be discussed in this special follow-up podcast episode! To view the entire VIDEO PODCAST be sure to join our CrossExamined private community. It’s the perfect place to jump into some great discussions with like-minded Christians while simultaneously providing financial support for our ministry. You can also SUPPORT THE PODCAST HERE. Resources mentioned in this episode: Tim and Alisa’s book: https://a.co/d/1MnXiDr Alisa Childer’s website: https://alisachilders.com/ Red Pen Logic on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@RedPenLogic Reality Apologetics Conference (Texas): https://www.realityapologetics.com/tx/ Download Transcript

Jan 30, 202428 min

The Deconstruction of Christianity | with Alisa Childers and Tim Barnett

What is this thing called “deconstruction” that has disrupted, dismantled, and destroyed the faith of so many people? Is it really a quest for truth, or is this radical spiritual makeover motivated by something else? As the deconstruction movement continues to grow in popularity, families and faith communities are often blindsided by individuals who leave Christianity and place the blame on “toxic Christians” or the allegedly “immoral” God of the Bible. How do you keep the line of communication open with “exvangelicals” and what types of questions can help foster meaningful faith conversations? This week, our friends Alisa Childers and Tim Barnett join Frank to get to the heart of deconstruction and provide answers for Christians looking to tactfully engage people who have been swept up in the movement. During this podcast episode, they’ll discuss the inspiration behind their brand-new book, ‘The Deconstruction of Christianity: What It Is, Why It’s Destructive, and How to Respond‘ and also identify some of the pitfalls that have led many to abandon Christianity altogether. Listen as Frank, Alisa, and Tim answer questions like: What is the motivation behind deconstruction? Why doesn’t Alisa classify her faith crisis as true deconstruction? What’s an exvangelical and where did the term originate? What are Tim and Alisa’s personal experiences with exvangelicals? What are some of the glaring inconsistencies within the deconstruction movement? Should Christians interpret the Bible “literally”? If the deconstruction movement has come knocking on your door, this is the episode for you! As you’ll hear during the conversation, having a strong grasp on the true Gospel and a working knowledge of apologetics can help Christians to escape the draw to deconstruction. Frank, Alisa, and Tim will only scratch the surface in this podcast, so be sure to check out the upcoming midweek podcast where they’ll dive deeper into the consequences of deconstruction, its connection to critical theory, and the best way to communicate with people who call you “toxic”. To view the entire VIDEO PODCAST be sure to join our CrossExamined private community. It’s the perfect place to jump into some great discussions with like-minded Christians while simultaneously providing financial support for our ministry. You can also SUPPORT THE PODCAST HERE. Resources mentioned in this episode: Tim and Alisa’s book: https://a.co/d/1MnXiDr Alisa’s website: https://alisachilders.com/ Tim’s website: https://www.timbarnett.org/ Red Pen Logic on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@RedPenLogic Reality Apologetics Conference (Texas): https://www.realityapologetics.com/tx/

Jan 26, 202448 min

How to Evangelize Muslims | with Dr. Brady Blevins

What are the major “Do’s and Don’ts” of witnessing to Muslims? On last week’s podcast, Dr. Brady Blevins from Watchman Fellowship gave listeners some great advice on how to have effective faith conversations with Mormons and Jehovah Witnesses. This week, Brady returns to the program to discuss how Christians can effectively engage in conversations with Muslims about Jesus and the Bible in a way that feels natural and how researching their (sometimes difficult!) questions has helped him understand proper theology. He and Frank answer questions like: What exactly does “cult” mean and what are the 4 characteristics of a cult? What do Muslims generally believe and what makes them different from Christians? What is the Quranic Dilemma? How should you respond when a Muslim says that the Bible is corrupt? What are some predominant characteristics of the culture that can help you be a better and more effective communicator with Muslims? As you’ll learn in this episode, effective evangelism is a lot more about gardening than it is about harvesting. Our job is to be obedient ambassadors for Christ by interacting positively with the people He puts on our path (or on our doorstep!) and letting Him handle the rest. You’ll also discover that there is no one better to help us on this mission of interfaith apologetics than Brady, as he shares stories from many of the fascinating conversations he’s had with his Muslim friends over the past 10-15 years! Be sure to sign-up for his PREMIUM COURSE ‘Conversations with the Faiths‘ which starts on 2/5 to experience a total deep-dive into Mormonism, Islam, and JWs in addition to 5 Zoom Q&A sessions with Brady. Or, choose from one of the three self-paced options listed in the resources below! To view the entire VIDEO PODCAST be sure to join our CrossExamined private community. It’s the perfect place to jump into some great discussions with like-minded Christians while simultaneously providing financial support for our ministry. You can also SUPPORT THE PODCAST HERE. Resources mentioned during the podcast: Watchman Fellowship ‘Conversations with the Faiths‘ – PREMIUM COURSE ‘Conversations with Muslims‘ – SELF-PACED COURSE ‘Conversations with Mormons‘ – SELF-PACED COURSE ‘Conversations with JWs‘ – SELF-PACED COURSE

Jan 23, 202437 min

How to Evangelize Mormons and Jehovah Witnesses | with Dr. Brady Blevins

Knock, knock. Who’s there? If a Mormon or a Jehovah’s Witness comes to your door, what should you do and what should you say? As tempting as it may be, resist the urge to close the blinds and pretend you’re not home or even worse, slam the door in their faces. Evangelizing someone involved in a cult may seem hopeless, but what if God wants to use you (yes YOU!) to reach them with the TRUE Gospel? What are the “Do’s and Don’ts” of witnessing to members of the WatchTower Society and the so-called Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints? That’s what we’re addressing in this week’s podcast as Frank interviews Dr. Brady Blevins, Senior Apologist of Watchman Fellowship and instructor for our brand-new online course, ‘Conversations with the Faiths.’ During this podcast episode, Frank and Brady will answer questions like: What was Brady’s first personal encounter with a Jehovah’s Witness? What do JW’s and Mormons believe about Jesus and why do they evangelize in pairs? What are the consequences of leaving these cults? How long does it typically take a Mormon to convert to orthodox Christianity? What single Bible verse obliterates the theology of Jehovah’s Witnesses? How have false prophecies affected JW membership? As you’ll be reminded during this episode, Jehovah’s Witnesses and Mormons are not your enemy. But if you want to be effective in reaching them, you’ve got to exercise patience and prepare to have ongoing conversations with their members. And what better way to prepare than by signing up for Brady’s course, ‘Conversations with the Faiths‘? Class starts on Monday, 2/5 so enroll NOW and stay tuned for the upcoming midweek podcast where Brady will lay out the game plan for evangelizing Muslims too! To view the entire VIDEO PODCAST be sure to join our CrossExamined private community. It’s the perfect place to jump into some great discussions with like-minded Christians while simultaneously providing financial support for our ministry. You can also SUPPORT THE PODCAST HERE. Resources mentioned during the podcast: Watchman Fellowship ‘Conversations with the Faiths‘ – PREMIUM COURSE ‘Conversations with Muslims‘ – SELF-PACED COURSE ‘Conversations with Mormons‘ – SELF-PACED COURSE ‘Conversations with JWs‘ – SELF-PACED COURSE

Jan 19, 202448 min

Tackling the Top 5 Objections Young People Have to Christianity | with Cliffe and Stuart Knechtle – Part 2

How can Christians defend the faith in light of today’s most common objections from young atheists and agnostics? America’s “best and brightest” have a bone to pick with God and the Christian worldview, which means evangelizing this demographic is of the utmost importance. But how can Christians effectively reach young people when factors like the problem of evil and the reality of suffering prohibit them from wanting to embrace theism? Back by popular demand, Cliffe and Stewart Knechtle of the popular YouTube channel, Give Me An Answer, return to share more insights on how they tackle today’s toughest philosophical questions from college and university students. Does the truth of Christianity depend on how good (or bad) Christians live out their faith? Why is free will a necessary component of a moral universe? Is there biblical precedence for open-air evangelism? What effect has moral relativism had on the minds of high school students? All this and more will be discussed in Part 2 of this lighthearted but highly informative midweek podcast episode! To view the entire VIDEO PODCAST be sure to join our CrossExamined private community. It’s the perfect place to jump into some great discussions with like-minded Christians while simultaneously providing financial support for our ministry. You can also SUPPORT THE PODCAST HERE. Ask Cliffe YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@askcliffe Give Me An Answer (website) Grace Community Church in New Canaan, CT Download Transcript

Jan 16, 202426 min

Tackling the Top 5 Objections Young People Have to Christianity | with Cliffe and Stuart Knechtle

Do young people today reject theism and Christianity for the same reasons as past generations? If you ask the average American college student why they doubt Christianity or God’s existence, you’re sure to get a range of responses. But are their objections grounded in evidence, reason, and rationality? Or are they allowing their emotions and desires to guide their unbelief? Evangelizing college students is no easy task, but today’s guests have mastered the art of dialoguing with young people who have major questions when it comes to faith, morality, and identity. This week, Frank sits down with the humble father/son duo, Cliffe and Stuart Knechtle of the popular YouTube channel, Give Me an Answer. During the episode, Frank, Cliffe, and Stuart will answer questions like: What are some of the top objections they get to Christianity and how do they respond? Why and how did Cliffe and Stuart start doing open-air apologetics on college campuses? How does atheism contradict the Black Lives Matter movement? Should depressed teens have the right to commit suicide? Should Christian parents send their kids to secular colleges and universities? What are some of the CRAZY (and sometimes frightening) ways that students have responded to their ministry? As you’ll hear throughout this conversation, Cliffe and Stuart take a head, heart, and hands approach when they evangelize on college campuses. This podcast episode is all about showcasing how to present both the love and the truth of Christ without (purposely) offending a potentially hostile audience. We know you’re going to appreciate what Cliffe and Stuart have to say, so be sure to subscribe to their YouTube channel and stay tuned for the upcoming midweek podcast episode where Frank will wrap up the conversation with Cliffe and Stuart on how to effectively engage young people through Christian apologetics. To view the entire VIDEO PODCAST be sure to join our CrossExamined private community. It’s the perfect place to jump into some great discussions with like-minded Christians while simultaneously providing financial support for our ministry. You can also SUPPORT THE PODCAST HERE. Ask Cliffe YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@askcliffe Give Me An Answer (website) Grace Community Church in New Canaan, CT

Jan 12, 202448 min