I Don't Have Enough FAITH to Be an ATHEIST-logo

I Don't Have Enough FAITH to Be an ATHEIST

Religion & Spirituality Podcas

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

Location:

United States

Description:

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

Twitter:

@Frank_Turek

Language:

English

Contact:

9103795447


Episodes

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

3/15/2024
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

Duration:00:48:17

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

3/12/2024
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 Download Transcript

Duration:00:43:16

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

3/8/2024
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

Duration:00:48:21

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

3/5/2024
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/

Duration:00:35:52

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

3/1/2024
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/

Duration:00:48:19

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

2/27/2024
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 Download Transcript

Duration:00:43:36

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

2/23/2024
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 Download Transcript

Duration:00:48:22

The Lazy Approach to Evangelism | with Eric Hernandez

2/20/2024
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 Download Transcript

Duration:00:54:09

Living in the DAZE of Deception | with Jack Hibbs

2/16/2024
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/ Download Transcript

Duration:00:48:12

The Top 10 Hasty Generalizations That Plague Our Society Today

2/13/2024
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. Download Transcript

Duration:00:56:59

Is America Headed for Disaster? | with Eric Metaxas

2/9/2024
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 book 'Letter to the American Church' 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/ Download Transcript

Duration:00:48:17

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

2/6/2024
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

Duration:00:40:49

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

2/2/2024
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 Download Transcript

Duration:00:48:13

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

1/30/2024
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

Duration:00:28:03

The Deconstruction of Christianity | with Alisa Childers and Tim Barnett

1/26/2024
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/ Download Transcript

Duration:00:48:18

How to Evangelize Muslims | with Dr. Brady Blevins

1/23/2024
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 Download Transcript

Duration:00:37:21

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

1/19/2024
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 Download Transcript

Duration:00:48:19

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

1/16/2024
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

Duration:00:26:40

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

1/12/2024
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 Download Transcript

Duration:00:48:21

The History of Modern-Day Israel with Bill Federer – Part 2

1/9/2024
What are the historical and ideological factors that have shaped the modern state of Israel and the ongoing Israeli-Palestinian conflict? Religion, corruption, and even money laundering cannot be overlooked when having a nuanced discussion on what has happened and is happening in that region. But with the complexity of this ongoing war of ideologies and power grabs, where does the true solution lie? During last week's podcast, Frank and our guest, best-selling author and historian Bill Federer, walked us through some of ancient Israel's history as documented through archaeology and in the Old Testament. This week, Bill briefly revisits the miraculous re-founding of Israel in 1948 and then gets into the weeds of many of the challenges that the Jews have faced in light of re-establishing their nation and protecting it from Islamic regimes that are dedicated to destroying Israel for good. Listen as Frank and Bill answer questions like: How did a population of only 600,000 Jews manage to defeat an army of five different countries the day after the modern state of Israel was founded? Why did the Palestinians vacate the land once it was reclaimed by Israel? What role does critical theory play in the history of the modern rise of Islamic governments? What's the ideology of Wahhabism and jihad? How did US government officials like Franklin D. Roosevelt, President Biden, Hilary Clinton, and others contribute to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict? What led the son of Hamas' founder to turn away from Islam and convert to Christianity? How is Jesus the ultimate solution to this never-ending war? As Bill ties up some of the loose ends from the prior podcast episode, he'll take us even deeper into the centuries-long hostility between Arab nations, Muslim fundamentalists, and Israel. Part 2 of this series is sure to leave you with a better understanding of the significance of the October 7th Hamas attack, decades-old oil transactions, critical theory, and how they're all linked to a long chain of antisemitic uprisings from past and present history. And just in case you missed Part 1, be sure to go back and check out the previous episode that aired on 1/5 so that you're fully in the loop! 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. Previous podcast (Part 1): The History of Modern-Day Israel with Bill Federer - Part 1 Bill's book: What Every American Needs to Know about the Qur'an: A History of Islam & the United States Download Transcript

Duration:00:51:04