Tag Archive for: morality

Is not voting in the 2024 presidential election a wise option for Christians who don’t like either of the candidates? When George Barna recently appeared on The Charlie Kirk Show, he revealed some troubling data indicating that as many as 41 million Christians are choosing not to vote this year because they don’t like Harris or Trump. If politics isn’t your thing or you’ve lost your enthusiasm to vote, you REALLY need to tune in!

With the election just around the corner, Frank dedicates this podcast episode to focusing on the top three questions that Christians need to consider when it comes to “religion and politics” and what history has taught us when Christians disengage from the world of politics. He also summarizes some of the helpful information you’ll find available at VoteYourFaith.net by answering questions and issues like:

  • What are the consequences when Christians don’t vote?
  • How was Jesus involved in politics, and how does that help us vote?
  • If a politician can’t save you, why vote at all? (Sorry, but you’ll see why this is a really stupid objection!)
  • Does abortion trump everything else?
  • Where do both parties stand on “the more important matters of the law”?
  • Should Christians vote for the most good or the least evil?
  • What is the Equality Act and how could it hurt our children, our jobs, and our religious freedoms?
  • Why you’re actually not voting for one person!

As you’ll be reminded during this episode, Christians have the responsibility to be involved in what’s going on in our society, and that means loving our neighbors through politics by enacting laws that protect them from evil. God calls us to be ambassadors for His kingdom and we don’t stop just because we’re not over the moon excited about our choices. God has used both righteous and unrighteous leaders all through the Bible to accomplish His good purposes, so get informed, go vote, and leave the results to God!

Did you enjoy this episode? HELP US SPREAD THE TRUTH OF CHRISTIANITY BY SUPPORTING THE PODCAST HERE.

Resources mentioned during the episode:

Helpful Resources and Local Voting Guide: VoteYourFaith.net
George Barna on The Charlie Kirk Show: https://apple.co/4eQeAEk
David Daleiden & Planned Parenthood video: https://bit.ly/3BFt6jQ
New York Post article on Kamala Harris & Planned Parenthood: https://bit.ly/483XgcC
New York Post article on FEMA “Disaster Equity”: https://bit.ly/3zT22Nr
The Heritage Foundation Explains The Equality Act: https://herit.ag/3Y07Z31
The Washington Stand: For the 41 Million Christians ‘Unlikely’ to Vote: https://bit.ly/3BItiPh

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Is the American Church still shining as the light of Christ, or have we made too many compromises in the name of “tolerance” and “inclusion”? As darkness in our nation grows, it’s becoming clear that the faith of many has become cloudy and confused, leading to the rise of secularism and threats to the freedoms once rooted in the Christian worldview. Where are we headed, and what lessons from the past should serve as warnings for our future?

This week, Frank sits down with the one and only Dr. Erwin Lutzer about his brand new book, ‘The Eclipse of God: Our Nation’s Disastrous Search for a More Inclusive Deity (and What We Must Do About It)‘, which explores how America is attempting to redefine God, replacing Him with one made in our image. Dr. Lutzer will challenge listeners to count up the cost of being a true follower of Christ in the face of growing cultural persecution as well as expose how the redefining of God has crept into the American Church. They’ll answer tough questions like:

  • In what ways have both Christians and non-Christians attempted to make God more inclusive and “sin-friendly”?
  • Does God love people “unconditionally”?
  • Why does Dr. Lutzer refer to Marx, Darwin, and Freud as “the three grave diggers?”
  • What are the 3 critically important historical lessons that Dr. Lutzer wants to share with the American Church?
  • What can we learn from martyrs throughout Church history and how can we stand up for our biblical principles instead of giving into cultural incentives?
  • What can we do to turn the tide and prepare our children and grandchildren for what’s coming next?

This podcast episode also touches on the rise of Marxism, the gender pronoun craze, and the naivety of some Christians today when it comes to the importance of getting involved in politics. Listen as Frank and Dr. Lutzer reflect on the Church’s biblical mandate to stand against evil, and how history has shown the inevitable consequences that have occurred when the Church remained silent. Be sure to grab your copy of ‘The Eclipse of God‘ to dig deeper into this urgent call to the American Church!

Did you enjoy this episode? HELP US SPREAD THE TRUTH OF CHRISTIANITY BY SUPPORTING THE PODCAST HERE.

Resources mentioned during the episode:

DR. LUTZER’S BOOK: The Eclipse of God
RESOURCES BY DR. LUTZER: https://www.moodymedia.org/
SERMON PREP MADE SIMPLER: https://www.moodymedia.org/blog/2021/10/sermon-prep-made-simpler/

 

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How could a good God allow such evil, pain, and suffering to take place in this world? And why doesn’t He intervene to save good people or young children when disaster strikes? The aftermath and utter devastation caused by Hurricane Helene has many questioning, “Where is God when things go wrong”? What is the best way to address these questions and how can we find God and meaning for life in the midst of these tragic events?

Life has been especially hard for those in the western part of North Carolina since Hurricane Helene struck last week, leaving residents without access to food and water, and claiming the lives of countless victims due to unprecedented flash flooding and fallen debris. During this week’s podcast episode, Frank sits down with Dr. Clay Jones (instructor of the upcoming OCC course ‘Why Does God Allow Evil?‘) and Dan Hodges (CrossExamined Board Director and Hurricane Helene survivor) to discuss the problem of evil and some of the heartbreaking stories emerging in light of the recent storm. Frank, Clay, and Dan will answer questions like:

  • What led Clay to write one of Frank’s all-time favorite books on evil, ‘Why Does God Allow Evil?
  • How can ordinary people commit extraordinary evil?
  • What’s the difference between being “good” and being “nice”?
  • Why do difficult times often bring out the best in people?
  • What did Dan see and experience after the storm in WNC and how can we help the survivors and volunteers?
  • Why didn’t Jesus save 7-year old Micah who was swept away by floodwaters? What did his aunt say about that?
  • How has Clay’s personal battle with cancer impacted his writing and teaching on this topic?
  • How can you help victims with physical and spiritual needs?

 

There will undoubtedly be tough days ahead for Helene survivors as they move forward and try to pick up the pieces. This is a sobering episode, but we trust that it will not only bring hope to those who are in a dark season right now, but also remind us of the good news of the Gospel when we inevitably encounter hardships in our own lives. We know you’ll benefit from hearing even more of Dr. Clay Jones’ insights on the problem of evil, so consider signing up for the PREMIUM online course ‘Why Does God Allow Evil?‘ which kicks off soon on 10/23!

Did you enjoy this episode? HELP US SPREAD THE TRUTH OF CHRISTIANITY BY SUPPORTING THE PODCAST HERE.

Resources mentioned during the episode:

Micah’s Story (New York Post article): https://bit.ly/3Yb4JU3

Clay’s Online Course: Why Does God Allow Evil?

Clay’s Book: Why Does God Allow Evil?

Give to Samaritan’s Purse: https://www.samaritanspurse.org/

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Character and morality often intersect in their definitions. Even for the non-Christians, all people are given a moral compass from the time of our birth. As image bearers of God, a person is able to recognize right from wrong. Though these matters have been declared more subjective over time, murder is still deemed hateful by the large majority. Stealing is considered a crime by most law-abiding citizens. There are obvious signs that either positively or negatively allude to one’s character.

Character Defined

Character, defined by the world, is commonly based on what is done rather than what is believed. A person is considered morally good by the things that they do for themselves or someone else. For instance, donating to multiple charities and volunteering at a homeless shelter may lead someone to believe that they are a wonderful person. Though these things are certainly beneficial, they do not, by themselves, earn God’s favor.

Biblical character is achieved through having a relationship with Christ. His law being written on our hearts is the way in which we determine that which is truly good, right, and pure. We walk in authentic morality because we walk with the Lord. Our ultimate example of moral perfection is Christ alone. Having lived blamelessly and without any sin, He is our perfect example. In our belief in Jesus, we experience true freedom and relief knowing that salvation is not works-based. Salvation is a gift. It is placed on us in the grace and forgiveness of Jesus.

Character is earned and kept through worshipful obedience. Obedience is a posture of the heart. If one’s motive does not align with the Lord’s purposes, obedience is inauthentic. A small example may be reading the Bible. If doing so is simply a checklist item among others during our morning routine, we are operating in a harmful works-based mentality that limits our view of God’s love for us. In the book Gentle and Lowly (2020), the author Gavin Ortlund states, “We sin- not just in the past but in the present, and not only by our disobedience but by our ‘of-works’ obedience. We are perversely resistant to letting Christ love us” (pg. 186).

I once heard someone say that they felt confident in their eternal security because of his record of attendance at church and history of financial generosity. At the time, I was not spiritually mature enough to gently redirect this harmful way of thinking. I now understand that if character is not about the heart of God himself, it is meaningless.

Character Witnessed

As previously mentioned, we beautifully witness character through the many attributes of our Lord. He is inherently everything that we are not. He is perfect in love, justice, power, sovereignty, grace, authority, forgiveness, mercy, goodness, patience, and much more. The character of God is our comfort. In our delight and embrace of who he is, our lives begin to look completely different. This is not anything we accomplish in our strength but in our submission. As we humbly submit to God, we are transformed. Nothing good inside of us can or will exist outside of the person of Christ. Though we might do apparently good things, true goodness is obtained only as the Holy Spirit works in and through us on a daily basis.

As we approach the Word of God, our intent should be to uncover more about who he is. Oftentimes, we look to Scripture for answers about our life and identity. The Bible is about who God is. Yet, in knowing him, we do begin to better understand who we are and the purpose we have been given. As A.W Tozer famously says in Knowledge of the Holy, “What comes into our minds when we think about God is the most important thing about us” (pg. 1).

The gospels serve as eye-witness accounts to Christ’s ministry on earth. We learn from his parables, his miracles, and ultimately, his example. I often reflect on the longest recorded message that Jesus preached, The Sermon on the Mount. Matthew chapters five, six, and seven encompass many of life’s most important matters. Though each lesson holds tremendous weight and value, the Beatitudes in chapter five speak directly to one’s character. The word “blessed” that comes before each one is the Greek word makarios which can be translated to “happy” in our English language. All throughout Scripture, it is evident that our humble obedience to the Lord precedes his faithful blessing unto us. It is the character of God that allows us to be richly blessed in our depravity before him. He supplies our needs according to the riches of glory in Christ Jesus. His blessing is his heart towards us.

Character Activated

Perhaps humility is the most important characteristic of a believer. It is from our humility that we can love, serve, submit, and honor both God and others with authenticity. Without the acknowledgement of our nothingness outside of Christ, we walk in deceptive pride that hinders our obedience. Yet, in emptying ourselves daily, we are best positioned to glorify the Lord with the help of his Holy Spirit.

Character that is marked by the fruit of the Spirit comes as we walk closely with him. Christian calling and character are mutually dependent on one another. Romans chapter twelve says that we must resist conforming to the world and be transformed by the renewal of our mind. In order to serve Jesus from a place of spiritual maturity, integrity, and authenticity we must look different from the world around us.

Secular culture says that a calling is fulfilled in the measure of wealth and knowledge. On the contrary, John 13:35 says that the world will know a disciple by how they love. Furthermore, 1 Corinthians 13 reminds us that we can obtain many spiritual gifts and talents, but without love, it is all worthless. It is not what we do that matters to God. It is who we are.

The mutual calling of every person on planet earth is to glorify the Lord. We exist to worship his name. Though many will not do this, it is why we are here. The specific calling on a person’s life is best revealed in seeking Jesus. Whether it be business, performance, creativity, pastoring, or parenting, our calling glorifies God as we operate in Christlike character.

When people look at your life, what do they see? Our character is positively or negatively viewed by others on a daily basis. For the Christian, a lot is at stake. If a well-known pastor preaches a remarkable sermon on generosity only to leave church and tip his waitress a few coins, there may be a character flaw. How we treat people matters. The love we operate in has every potential to point someone to Jesus. May our lives be a reflection of the only One who can save and deliver. May we never blend in but stand out. Character champions calling when Christ is at the center of all that we do.

Recommended Resources:

Jesus, You and the Essentials of Christianity by Frank Turek (INSTRUCTOR Study Guide), (STUDENT Study Guide), and (DVD)     

What is God Like? Look to the Heavens by Dr. Frank Turek (DVD and Mp4

I Don’t Have Enough Faith to Be an Atheist (Paperback), and (Sermon) by Norman Geisler and Frank Turek

How to Interpret Your Bible by Dr. Frank Turek DVD Complete Series, INSTRUCTOR Study Guide, and STUDENT Study Guide

 


Annie Brown has joined us as Content Coordinator working with the Truth That Matters team. In this role, Annie will be creating written content meant to edify and equip lay learners and scheduling content channels as needed. In addition to being a student at SES, Annie has a B.S. in Family & Child Development from Liberty University. “I am grateful for the opportunity to serve on the Truth That Matters Team at SES. Using my passion of writing to prayerfully bless others excites me, and I look forward to what the Lord has in store.”

Originally posted at: https://bit.ly/3SoTLa7

Watching classic TV recently I ran across one of my favorite episodes of the Twilight Zone series. Fans of that show will probably remember the classic episode “To Serve Man.” In the story, aliens from a distant world come to Earth with they offer “to help.” Initially reluctant, the inhabitants of Earth are quickly convinced that the aliens mean them no harm; quite the contrary, alien technology helps to eliminate many of Earth’s struggles and problems, and the inhabitants of Earth are quickly seduced by the aliens’ promises.

As the story progresses, the aliens offer to take people to their home world, which they promise is a veritable paradise. Many sign up and soon embark on the alien ships to begin their adventure. And why shouldn’t they? After all, everything the aliens did was pleasing and helpful; there was no immediate evidence that they would, or could, hurt anyone

Instant Gratification Culture

The episode got me thinking about modern times. Many people today have adopted a worldview that looks only at the short-term pleasure, and not the long-term harm, of their desires and pursuits. They believe that they can – and perhaps even should – do whatever they like, as long as what they pursue doesn’t “hurt anyone.” They of course retain the perquisite of determining what “hurt” entails, and for the most part that seems to be to obtain the “consent” of whomever might be involved. Where Christians once derived their morality from the teachings of Scripture, many – some would say most – have also adopted this humanist worldview, confident that their notions of what “not hurting” someone means are similar to those of God.

…Versus Heavenly Minded

This willful blindness to God’s law is not new to our culture; it has been the constant throughout history. That is, of course, why adhering to Scripture is such an important and salutary practice; while times and fashions and moods change over time, the word of God is constant, having been reliably passed down for thousands of years at this point. It is suitable for instruction and reproof, as it claims, and should remain our guideposts as we move down this highway of our lives. But sadly, where once Christians sought to be “salt and light” in their culture, today’s increasingly intolerant public square is making such efforts increasingly difficult, and many Christians have been influenced and indeed silenced by the press of that culture.

Which brings me back to the Twilight Zone. Not everyone was convinced that the aliens were benevolent. Several sought to crack the code of their alien language, so they could translate a book which was left behind. The book’s title, To Serve Man, seemed consistent with the aliens’ actions in providing near-miraculous service to mankind, such as restoring the fertility of the soil and rendering nuclear weapons harmless. The story ends with a shocking, albeit too late, discovery: “to serve man” is actually the title of a cookbook. The aliens had come to turn people into food.

And so the parallel continues. While not seeking to literally eat us, our adversary the devil “prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour.” (1 Peter 5:7) He does this by lies and deceptions, for he is the father of deceit. And the oldest lie of all? The same one told in the Garden: you don’t need to follow God’s rules, for you too can be like God, having the knowledge of good and evil (Gen 3:1-4). What that means in practice is not knowledge, that is, the acquisition of information about good and evil. Instead, it is the god-like power to define good and evil, to do as one pleases without the need to concern oneself with God’s holy will.

And so we Christians must remain cautious and on our guard. A philosophy that tells us to do whatever we want as long as it doesn’t “hurt anyone” is a highly seductive philosophy, one that “tickles the ears” of listeners. (2 Tim. 4:3) But how can we truly foresee the long-term effects of our choices? How can we know, when we give in to our temptations and embrace them as good, what ultimate harm will come to us, and to those we say we love? When we look for a shortcut, or take the easy way out when we know that we should do otherwise, how can we really foresee what the long-term consequence of those actions will be? As Jesus taught, “what does it profit a man to gain the whole world, but to forfeit his soul?” (Mark 8:36)

Seduction comes camouflaged, and it comes in many forms. Behind it is always a lie, a promise of short-term pleasure that seeks to conceal the long-term harm. Staying true to God’s will requires us to know and follow his law. Trying to substitute a “do no harm” philosophy may seem enlightened, but in the end, it will not serve – neither man nor mankind.


Recommended Resources Related to this Topic

Is Morality Absolute or Relative? by Frank Turek (DVD/ Mp3/ Mp4)
Jesus vs. The Culture by Dr. Frank Turek DVD, Mp4 Download, and Mp3
Was Jesus Intolerant? (DVD) and (Mp4 Download) by Dr. Frank Turek
Legislating Morality (mp4 download),  (DVD Set), (MP3 Set), (PowerPoint download), and (PowerPoint CD) by Frank Turek
Legislating Morality: Is it Wise? Is it Legal? Is it Possible? by Frank Turek (Book)

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Al Serrato earned his law degree from the University of California at Berkeley in 1985. He began his career as an FBI special agent before becoming a prosecutor in California, where he worked for 33 years. An introduction to CS Lewis’ works sparked his interest in Apologetics, which he has pursued for the past three decades. He got his start writing Apologetics with J. Warner Wallace and Pleaseconvinceme.com.

 

What happens when your job asks you to do something that conflicts with your religious beliefs? Do you just give in because it’s easier than rocking the boat? The same people who say they are fighting for justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion (JEDI) often punish or intimidate those who commit the thought crime of disagreeing with transgender ideology (or homosexual behavior) even though these beliefs have NOTHING to do with workplace productivity. And really, why are we even talking about sex at work in the first place?!

In this midweek episode, Frank shares what happened when he got fired from his corporate job and gives viewers advice on how they can respectfully engage with a supervisor who is challenging them, including an extensive list of clarifying questions you can present when you are asked to do something that violates your conscience as a Christian.

Questions such as:

  • I noticed that our company values tolerance as I do, but what does the company mean by tolerance?
  • Are all employees required to have the same political, religious, or moral beliefs to work here?
  • Does the company think it’s right to force employees to violate their conscience?

If you’re tired of having to hide your conservative or religious beliefs at work as if you live in a totalitarian state rather than America, then this is the episode for you!

To view the entire VIDEO PODCAST, join our CrossExamined private community. It’s the perfect place to jump into some great discussions with like-minded Christians while providing financial support for our ministry.

Resources mentioned during the episode:

Sex at Work?: https://bit.ly/3Olx4SP

Alliance Defending Freedom: https://adflegal.org/

Correct, Not Politically Correct (Expanded Third Edition): https://amzn.to/457PyMP

 

 

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How much truth can you tolerate? That may sound like a strange question, but people often have the tendency to suppress the truth when it doesn’t align with our own personal desires. Why? Because as Paul said in Romans Chapter 1, we want to go our own way!

In this week’s podcast, Frank illustrates exactly what this looks like by reflecting on a past exchange he had with a biology student who passionately defended transgenderism during a recent college event but never responded to any of his arguments when he patiently answered her questions. You’ll also learn the 5 MAJOR flaws of transgender ideology, all of which are more heavily detailed in the newly expanded third edition of Frank’s book, ‘Correct, Not Politically Correct: About Same-Sex Marriage and Transgenderism’, which is now available for purchase!

Frank also addresses questions like:

  • What are some thought provoking questions to ask those who defend transgenderism?
  • What is the best way to respond to loved ones who say they’re trans or support the movement?
  • What’s more important than winning an argument?
  • Has gender reassignment surgery proven itself to be a cure for gender dysphoria?
  • How has gender reassignment surgery affected the people who have had the procedure?

By the end of the episode, you’ll see that while supporters of this movement seem determined to reject the truth, the consequences of denying reality affect all of us!

To view the entire VIDEO PODCAST, join our CrossExamined private community. It’s the perfect place to jump into some great discussions with like-minded Christians while providing financial support for our ministry.

Resources mentioned during the episode:

Correct, Not Politically Correct (Expanded Third Edition): https://amzn.to/457PyMP

Biologist Confronts Frank on Gender Theory (video): https://youtu.be/cRPjY-YyHSE

Sex Change Regret: https://sexchangeregret.com/

 

 

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You want controversy? We’ve got it! In this midweek podcast episode, Phoenix Hayes joins Frank to discuss the expanded third edition of his book, ‘Correct, Not Politically Correct: About Same-Sex Marriage and Transgenderism’. The transgender movement has seemingly swept the Western world by storm, and the ripple effect has resulted in the ostracizing of conservative values, the crippling of women’s sports, and the mutilation of young children!

Gender reassignment surgery and hormone replacement therapy has been marketed as the solution to those who believe they suffer from gender dysphoria (previously called gender identity disorder), but the data shows the exact opposite! Frank and Phoenix expose many of the shocking and horrific consequences of “transitioning”, show how same-sex marriage and transgenderism are ultimately harmful to our society, and answer some tough questions from our listeners!

Including:

  • Why has the Church been so silent on this issue?
  • Why is transgenderism more common today in girls vs. boys?
  • Should Christians use preferred pronouns?
  • Should certain books be banned in schools?
  • What is the definition of “tolerance” and how should the Church respond?
  • What’s next for the transgender movement and what can we do about it?

To participate in private Q&A sessions with Frank, Phoenix, and other members of the CE team on a variety of cultural issues, 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.

Correct, Not Politically Correct (Expanded Third Edition): https://bit.ly/3o0mTIP

 

 

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More than a dozen sites have been proposed for the true location of Mount Sinai. But does any one of them show more promise than the others? That’s exactly what award-winning investigative filmmaker Timothy Mahoney has been researching for over 20 years!

This week, Frank catches up with Tim to discuss his exciting new film release, ‘Patterns of Evidence: Journey to Mount Sinai: Part 2′ where Tim continues his investigation of the six most popular locations proposed for Mount Sinai in an effort to pinpoint the mountain’s true location.

Debuting in theaters on Monday (5/15) and Wednesday (5/17), Part 2 of the film brings even more jaw dropping evidence to the surface, pointing to what Tim believes to be a more accurate placement of this well-known mountain. The film will also explore new discoveries, never before seen by most audiences, including a massive split rock and a mysterious graveyard the size of 12-13 football fields! And just like in Part 1, viewers will have the opportunity to complete their own scorecard using the evidence provided in the second installment so you can determine for yourself which location makes the most sense!

To view the entire VIDEO PODCAST along with an exclusive interview with Tim about his experience as an investigative filmmaker, join our CrossExamined private community. It’s the perfect place to jump into some great discussions with like-minded Christians while providing financial support for our ministry.

Tim’s website: https://patternsofevidence.com/

Movie + ticket information: https://bit.ly/3LZi9uH

Download scorecard: https://bit.ly/3g9yeSz

 

 

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There comes a time when truth must be spoken, and a line must be drawn in the sand. But what happens when speaking the truth costs you your livelihood or your job?

In this midweek podcast episode, Dr. Erwin Lutzer returns to the program to give listeners advice on how Christians can navigate life in a collapsing culture, focusing specifically on the issue of Christian persecution. You may be surprised to learn that there are practical steps you can take if your religious freedoms are taken away by the same people who say they are fighting for tolerance, diversity, and inclusion.

Listeners will be encouraged to view persecution in the same way as the early Church, as a means to make Christ known. If and when persecution comes, we can rejoice in knowing that there will be a reward at the end of it. It is our responsibility as Christians to fight evil and leave the results to God, no longer choosing to remain silent!

To view the entire VIDEO PODCAST, join our CrossExamined private community. It’s the perfect place to jump into some great discussions with like-minded Christians while providing financial support for our ministry.

Alliance Defending Freedom: https://adflegal.org/

 

 

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