The Christian Outlook | Topics for Today's Believers

The Christian Outlook - April 27, 2024 Albert Mohler gives us a closer look at the antisemitic unrest happening at Columbia University in New York City. Greg Seltz talks with Star Parker, founder of CURE—the Center for Urban Renewal and Education, about the distressing antisemitic moment and what it reveals about the health of our nation. Georgene Rice talks with Doreen Denny, the Senior Advisor of Concerned Women for America, about the Biden administration's recently released set of revisions to Title IX and what it means for women's sports. Brian From invites Pastor Nate Pickowicz, author of "The Kindness of God: Beholding His Goodness in a Cruel World” to talk about how inescapable the goodness of God is for a child of God. Scott Furrow and Philip DeCourcey, the voice of “Know the Truth,” talk about how some pastors have weakened the preaching of God’s Word. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Christian Outlook - April 20, 2024 Albert Mohler takes a look at the attack on Israel by Iran and how it is an unprecedented move, in that Iran attacked Israel directly, and not with its usual proxy war method. Eric Metaxas turns to Michael Wilkerson, the founder of the organization Stormwall, and how this is a very dangerous period in human history, one that has all the markings of a nuclear Armageddon. Greg Seltz and Alex McFarland, a prolific author and the founder of Alex McFarland Ministries, take a look at threats posed from the political agenda of our fast-unfolding sexual revolution and radical LGBTQ agenda, which is an attack on the family. John Hall and Kathy Emmons talk with Cornelius Plantinga about his new book: “Gratitude: Why Giving Thanks Is the Key to Our Well-Being.” See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Christian Outlook - April 13, 2024 John Solomon and Amanda Head turned to Marjorie Dannenfelser of Susan B. Anthony Pro-Life America about a pro-abortion statement made by former President Trump earlier this week. Georgene Rice turns to Dr. Ingred Skop, Vice President and director of Medical Affairs with the Charlotte Lozier Institute, to talk about the abortion case before the Supreme Court, yet again. This time it's an FDA case on the approval to distribute the abortion pill by mail. Owen Strachan invites University of Kentucky swimmer Riley Gaines, to talk about her run-in with trans swimmer Lia Thomas, and how nobody in the sports community spoke up for her or other women, so refusing to be silent, she stepped up. Albert Mohler discusses a movement towards sanity in collegiate sports, specifically the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics banning men from competing in women's sports. Bob Burney reads from a Mayo Clinic study, not yet peer-reviewed, which suggests cross-sex hormone therapy does irreversible damage to human bodies. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Christian Outlook - April 6, 2024 Bob Burney takes a look at the Biden Administration's proclamation of "Transgender Day of Visibility" on Easter Sunday. Scott Furrow issues a warning to parents who are considering taking their children to get gender surgeries or cross-sex hormone treatments. Greg Seltz and Dr. Albert Mohler address this issue of transgenderism and how Christians are the only ones speaking up for gender confused children, even in the face of being ridiculed as "extremists." Eric Metaxas invites Jeremiah Johnston to discuss his in depth research of the resurrection, spelled out of course in Scripture, but also in his book, Body of Proof: The 7 Best Reasons to Believe in the Resurrection of Jesus--and Why It Matters Today. They talk about the centrality of the resurrection to Christian faith. In fact, all of human history hinges on it. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Christian Outlook -- March 30, 2024 Pastor Philip De Courcy of the ministry “Know the Truth” explains the meaning of “propitiation”–the paying of a price in order to satisfy justice. Pastor and radio programmer Alistair Begg helps answer the question of what it means to really believe in Christ by looking at 1 Corinthians 15. Albert Mohler, president of the Southern Baptist Theological Seminary, focuses on the significance of the empty tomb in Matthew 28. Chuck Swindoll of “Insight for Living” captures the exhilaration that comes with the recognition that Jesus Christ is risen from the dead. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Christian Outlook – March 23, 2024 Albert Mohler, referencing his op-ed at World.org, condemns Vice President Kamala Harris' campaign stop at a Planned Parenthood death camp in Saint Paul, Minnesota as a historic moral breach, signaling the triumph of the culture of death in U.S. politics. Eric Metaxas invites Caleb Dalton of Alliance Defending Freedom, to discuss aggressive tactics of the New Jersey government against First Choice Pregnancy Resource Center in New Jersey. John Hall and Kathy Emmons and Pam Irizarry delve into the complex and enduring emotional toll of abortion on women's lives, challenging misconceptions propagated by the media and highlighting the need for post-abortion ministries like Deeper Still Pittsburgh to provide healing and restoration. Georgene Rice and Andrew Carter, author of “The Privilege of Prayer,” discuss the significance of prayer and the privilege we have to talk directly with God. Carter emphasizes consistency and intimacy, drawing from the Lord's Prayer as a template for meaningful communication with the Creator. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Christian Outlook – March 16, 2024 Albert Mohler discusses New York Magazine's moral case and advocation of unrestricted access to gender-affirming treatments for transgender youth, dismissing parental authority. John Hall and Kathy Emmons talk with Dean Weaver, President of the Evangelical Presbyterian Church, about Ted Gioia's analysis of the "Post-Entertainment Society" where social media addiction shapes culture and thinking, prompting a call for intentional reading and renewal of the mind to counteract its effects. At the National Religious Broadcasters, Owen Strachan facilitated a panel discussing the Gospel with Pastor Jack Hibbs, Pastor J.D. Greer and Pastor Allen Jackson. They highlight the need to boldly proclaim this truth amidst cultural shifts and personal interpretations of faith, urging believers to encounter Jesus for genuine life change. Georgene Rice invites Rabbi Kirt Schneider to talk about his latest book, “To Know Him by Name: Discover the Power and Promise Revealed in the Hebrew Names and Titles of God.” See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Christian Outlook – March 9, 2024 Kathy Emmons talks with Carl Trueman, author of The Rise and Triumph of the Modern Self, about the battle the Church can no longer ignore and must face, in particular, the discipling of its young people concerning sexual morality and gender identity. Greg Seltz, sitting in for Don Kroah, talks with Tim Goeglein of Focus on the Family on the dangers of historical ignorance and the alarming lack of civic knowledge among students and adults, emphasizing the need for cultural and historical literacy. Scott Furrow and Philip DeCourcy, of Know the Truth, highlight the importance of a biblical perspective on spiritual warfare. They emphasize that the primary mission is to preach the gospel and build up the church, ultimately leading to victory over the forces of darkness. Eric Metaxas talks with Rosaria Butterfield, author of “Five Lies of Our Anti-Christian Age.” She emphasizes the importance of addressing these lies with sincere humility, recognizing the spiritual realities involved and the need for grownups to engage in the conversation armed with the Word of God. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Christian Outlook – March 3, 2024 Bob Burney takes a look at reporting from Politico reporter Heidi Prisabella, who tries to raise an “alarm bell” over Christian nationalism. Albert Mohler responds to the effort from those pushing the "Christian nationalism" line, citing ignorance of America's founding and even the media using it as a scare tactic. Scott Furrow talks with Todd Smith, pastor of Crossroads Community Church in Santa Clarita, California on our fast-disintegrating culture. Bob Burney has an extended conversation with Bill Federer, author of his classic America's God and Country Encyclopedia of Quotations. Federer talks about our American history being altered and leaving out its godly heritage. They also discuss the confusion surrounding the separation of church and state and what led us to believe that somehow there is a wall between the two. John Hall and Kathy Emmons talk with Robert Tracy McKenzie, author of “We the Fallen People: The Founders and the Future of American Democracy.” McKenzie explains how the Founders understood mankind's human heart and its fallen nature, which is why they designed America's government with separation of powers. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Christian Outlook – February 24, 2024 Albert Mohler discusses a ruling by the Alabama State Supreme Court regarding the destruction of embryos, affirming that unborn children are children without exception, regardless of developmental stage or physical location. Brian From and Robyn Chambers, of Focus on the Family, discuss the changes in the pro-life movement post-Roe v. Wade. They highlight the Option Ultrasound program's success in supporting pregnancy centers and empowering women to choose life for their babies, with over 500,000 lives impacted positively. Greg Seltz and George Barna, author of “Raising Spiritual Champions,” discuss the erosion of truth in contemporary culture, and the importance of instilling biblical worldview and values, especially among children. Scott Furrow and Pastor Allen Jackson discuss positive developments in the church despite challenges, highlighting increased clarity of truth and a resurgence of questioning beliefs. Gino Geraci discusses Alyssa Childers' article on progressive Christianity, outlining five danger signs of being in a progressive church. He highlights the importance of discerning these signs to evaluate one's church and pastor's theological stance. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Albert Mohler discusses the normalization of gambling in American culture, particularly highlighted by the recent Super Bowl in Las Vegas. Bob Burney criticizes the "He Gets Us" advertisements that aired during the Super Bowl for misrepresenting Jesus by emphasizing His humanity over His divinity. Georgene Rice and Louis Anderson of Oregon Right to Life discuss the recent Oregon Supreme Court ruling that rendered 10 pro-life senators ineligible for reelection, examining its impact on the ongoing legislative session. Greg Seltz talks with John Stonestreet of The Colson Center about the prominence of abortion in the Democratic platform, noting its strategic importance despite its ethical implications. Greg Seltz and Jay Richards of the Heritage Foundation discuss the consequences of gender ideology. They highlight the dangers of disregarding biological reality, emphasizing the vulnerability of young girls and the need to uphold fundamental distinctions between male and female in sports, society and law. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Christian Outlook – February 10, 2024 Scott Furrow talks with Jason Romano, a veteran sports reporter and host of the “Sports Spectrum Podcast.” They talk about Brock Purdy, the young quarterback for the 49ers, who has caught the attention of a lot of people, not just because of his talent, but because of his bold profession of faith in Jesus Christ. Jerry Bowyer, host of Meeting of Minds, and David Bahnsen, author of Full-Time: Work and the Meaning of Life talk about the work ethic crisis America is having, in particular with the American Church. John Hall and Kathy Emmons talk with Adam Gustine, who recently wrote a piece titled, “Sabbath Is Not a Luxury Good.” They discuss the wisdom in observing the Sabbath and why it's still good to rest in Christ. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Christian Outlook – February 3, 2024 In this edition, we'll sit in the Washington D.C. Senate hearing room with Senators Marsha Blackburn, Ted Cruz and Josh Hawley as they question Instagram and Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg on the harm his platforms are having on teens, where it's revealed the monetary value Zuckerberg has on your teenager. John Hall and Kathy Emmons talk with Chris Martin, author of The Wolf in Their Pockets: 13 Ways the Social Internet Threatens the People You Lead on why social media sites are so effective at doing so much harm to children. Eric Metaxas talks with Christina and Jarret LeMaster, who helped develop Legacy Christian School Private Satellite Program to equip Christian parents to teach their children at home or church. Christina encourages parents who say to themselves, "I can't do that" or "I'm not qualified" to don't be so quick to say you can't. They also discuss the dangers that giving your child a smartphone can have, even one locked down. Watch the entire interview with Eric Metaxas and Christina and Jarret LeMaster, here. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Christian Outlook – January 20, 2024 Georgene Rice reports on the impact the Dobbs decision has had on the abortion industry, revealing that 32 states have reported a significant decrease of 31,951 legal abortions in 2022. Bill Bunkley warns about an extreme pro-abortion constitutional amendment in Florida that, if adopted, could permit abortions up to the moment of birth. Sign the petition to protect life. Greg Seltz and Focus on the Family's Jim Daly discuss the selfish nature of Planned Parenthood, emphasizing their focus on abortion and lack of support for women in need. They advocate for empowering the church and families to provide assistance, highlight the success of ultrasound programs in saving lives, and express concerns about the erosion of family values in society. Greg Seltz and Tim Goeglein discuss the 2024 March for Life theme "Every Woman for Every Child," emphasizing the need to challenge the narrative and expose the reality behind the pro-choice euphemisms. Eric Metaxas and Alexandra DeSanctis, co-author of Tearing Us Apart: How Abortion Harms Everything and Solves Nothing, discuss the one-year anniversary of the Dobbs decision, the importance of the overturning of Roe v. Wade and what's next for the pro-life movement. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Christian Outlook – January 20, 2024 Bill Bunkley questions U.S. government transparency on global persecution, and Jeff King, President of International Christian Concern, criticizes the politicization of the State Department's list, citing Nigeria's exclusion due to political and geopolitical factors, including oil interests and the influence of radical Islamists. Rick Probst and Todd Nettleton of Voice of the Martyrs discuss attacks on Nigerian Christians over Christmas, highlighting the religious targeting. Nettleton also mentions financial charges against Chinese Christians and expresses concerns about the potential reelection of Prime Minister Modi in India, predicting increased persecution for Christians under his leadership. Kathy Emmons asks Chris Davis about his latest book, “Bright Hope for Tomorrow,” He highlights the anticipation of Christ's return and its role in providing hope, clarity for ministry, and prophetic patience in afflictions, suggesting Sabbath rest as a rhythm to stay aware of the Lord's return and reorder priorities. Georgene Rice and David Closson, author of “Male and Female He Created Them: A Study on Gender, Sexuality, & Marriage,” discuss the challenges of maintaining biblical views on gender, sexuality, and marriage in a hostile culture. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Christian Outlook – January 13, 2024 Greg Laurie and J.D. Greear, author of Above All: The Gospel Is the Source of the Church’s Renewal, discuss the importance of the Gospel, emphasizing that it is the same powerful message that transformed lives in the Book of Acts, and it remains unchanged. Rick Probst and Erin Smalley, of Focus on the Family, talk about the common issue of "the drift" in marriages, where couples can lose connection over time. Smalley suggests addressing it through open and non-defensive conversations, sharing a positive impact story from a couple who attended a conference. She also mentions resources like Hope Restored for intensive support in overcoming marriage challenges. Jim Daly, and Molly DeFrank discuss the negative impact of excessive technology usage on children, and how it hinders social development and creativity. She shares her family's experience with a digital detox, emphasizing the importance of unplugging for two weeks to encourage a healthier and more imaginative lifestyle. Find the full episode at Focus on the Family. Scott Furrow invites radio host Bob Lepine to discuss his latest book, Build a Stronger Marriage: The Path to Oneness. Lepine talks about the importance of shared spiritual convictions, ensuring that the couple's core commitment to Christ remains the central focus in their marriage, even when facing disagreements on smaller matters. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Christian Outlook – January 6, 2024 John Hall and Kathy Emmons talk with Sarah Zylstra, an editor for the Gospel Coalition, about the implications of social media on children. They address the concerns raised by the Surgeon General, highlighting the detrimental effects of social media on the mental health of our youth. Albert Mohler raises alarm about TikTok's harmful impact on teenagers and reminds parents to protect their children from the pervasive darkness and corrosive effects of social media. Scott Furrow invites Ryan Miller, founder of Share the Struggle, to share about the development of courses to help people manage various struggles. His organization aims to provide practical tools, foster community, and offer Jesus' love and healing. John and Kathy talk with John James, an editor with Crossway, about how social media distorts discussions about death, promoting inhumane and emotionally destructive responses. He emphasizes the need to be aware of the negative effects of internet life and the importance of protecting one's emotional well-being. Brian From asks Sarah Zylstra about her decision to leave social media, and she explained that witnessing the negative impact it had on Gen Z girls made her realize its detrimental effects on her own life, leading to shallow relationships and increased loneliness. Bill Bunkley discusses the Go Dark, Shine Bright initiative with James Spencer, who explained that the goal was to start a prayer movement by encouraging people to take a 10-day break from social media. The campaign aims to create a quiet space for individuals to focus on God, pray, and make wise decisions free from the distractions of social media noise. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Christian Outlook – December 30, 2023 Greg Seltz talks with Jerry Newcom, director of Providence Forum, about a classic musical masterpiece of Christian worship that has stood the test of time, Handel's Messiah. Brian From and Pastor Steve Coble, of “The Common Good” on AM1160 Hope for Your Life in Chicago, talk with Sarah Eekhoff Zylstra, of The Gospel Coalition, talk about how our young people have been transformed by social media. John and Kathy, the Ride Home, talk to Doug Bursch, writer and former pastor, about cherishing and nurturing your marriage and your spouse. Jim Daly and John Fuller, Focus on the Family, talk to Shaunti Feldhahn about her research on marriage. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Christian Outlook — December 23, 2023 Pastors Ray Pritchard and Dave Watson joined Kevin McCullough to discuss their books on Advent and how to prepare one’s heart for the celebration of Jesus’ birth. Steve Estes provides a fresh application of the Proverbs for this Christmas season on the Georgene Rice Show. Alistair Begg helps create in us a sense of how much was fulfilled in the birth of the Christ child. Albert Mohler explains how many Christians get the Christmas story wrong. On the John and Kathy Show, Jerry Bowyer explains the social context of Charles Dickens’ “A Christmas Carol.” Mike Gallagher shares how CBS fought almost everything related to the beloved “Charlie Brown Christmas” special when it first aired in 1965. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Christian Outlook – December 16, 2023 Albert Mohler looks at the massive problem on our nation’s southern border, highlighting record-breaking numbers of illegal entries and gotaways. Eric Metaxas turns to Thomas Homan, former acting director of ICE, to share what’s behind the intentional subversion of the United States of America and its laws. Georgene Rice talks with Michael Johnson, President of the Slavic Gospel Association, about how many who escaped the attacks of Russia in Ukraine moved to Israel, only to be attacked again by Hamas. Gino Geraci talks with Kate Anderson, director of the Center for Parental Rights at Alliance Defending Freedom, about a story in Jefferson County School district in Denver involving a minor who was forced to sleep in a hotel room with a boy who identified as a transgender girl. Greg Seltz, sitting in for Don Kroah, talks with Sarah Parshall Perry of the Heritage Foundation about the latest developments in California, where school districts usurp the authority of parents, to essentially take ownership of school children, going as far as removing them from parents who don't go along with the child's "preferred pronouns." See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.