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I Don't Have Enough FAITH to Be an ATHEIST

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I Don't Have Enough FAITH to Be an ATHEIST

Cross Examining ideas against the truth and Christianity. Brought to you by CrossExamined.org and AFR.net

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  1. 265How to Evangelize Transgender Friends and Is the Bible Historical Fiction? Plus More Q&AIn 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 What are some of the key distinctions between historical documents and historical fiction?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 Hello@CrossExamined.org 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?57 min
  2. 266Why Objections Don’t Defeat the Truth of GodIf 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?48 min
  3. 267How to Answer the Toughest Arguments for Abortion | with Scott KlusendorfThis 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)38 min
  4. 268Is Donald Trump Helping or Hurting the Pro-Life Movement? | with Scott KlusendorfWhat 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)48 min
  5. 269How to Stop Wokeness and Stand for Truth | with Dr. James LindsayAre 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 Child42 min
  6. 270One Nation Under Wokeness | with Dr. James LindsayIs 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 Cult48 min
  7. 2717 Archaeology Discoveries Associated with the Life (and Death) of Jesus | with Dr. Titus KennedyWhat 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/3U0p63V1 hr 11 min
  8. 272He is Risen! Examining the Evidence for the Resurrection with Dr. Jonathan McLatchieHow 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‘48 min
  9. 273Why Would a GOOD God Create People He Knew Would Go to Hell? Plus More Q&AIf 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 Turek48 min
  10. 274Is America Becoming a Police State? with Dinesh D’SouzaIs 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 Transcript48 min
  11. 275Can We Really Believe the Bible is Inerrant? Plus More Q&ADo 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 Turek52 min
  12. 276Do 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 Transcript48 min
  13. 277Does the Resurrection of Jesus Prove He is the Jewish Messiah? with Eric ChabotIf 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/1AvTNHd43 min
  14. 278The #1 Doctrine That Answers Christianity’s Toughest Questions with Dr. Tim StrattonIt’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/3T8Unjw48 min
  15. 279The Surprising Rebirth of Belief in God with Justin Brierley - Part 2Can 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/36 min
  16. 280The Surprising Rebirth of Belief in God | with Justin Brierley - Part 1Could 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/48 min
  17. 281Navigating the Digital Age: Youth, Technology, and Social Media SurvivalIs 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 World44 min
  18. 282From Gangs to the Gospel: An Inside Look at the Faith Journey of Ruslan KDWhere 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/booking48 min
  19. 283The Lazy Approach to Evangelism | with Eric HernandezIs 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.org54 min
  20. 284Living in the DAZE of Deception | with Jack HibbsHave 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/48 min
  21. 285The Top 10 Hasty Generalizations That Plague Our Society TodayHave 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.57 min
  22. 286Is America Headed for Disaster? | with Eric MetaxasIs 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/48 min
  23. 28710 Salvations and Takin’ it to the Streets with Tytus JonesIt’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 Transcript40 min
  24. 288Did Jesus REALLY Rise From the Dead? On the Resurrection (Vol.1) | with Dr. Gary HabermasWhat 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/hU8nEoP48 min
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