Tag Archive for: philosophy

Should reparations be paid to people who are the ancestors of slaves? After all, aren’t reparations biblical? On this midweek podcast episode, Monique Duson and Krista Bontrager from The Center for Biblical Unity return to continue the conversation that centers on their new book, ‘Walking in Unity: Biblical Answers to Questions on Race and Racism‘ and address the following questions:

  • Can a biblical case be made for reparations?
  • What’s the major problem with the modern day reparations movement?
  • Is the way we see Black America today a direct result of slavery?
  • Are all disparities due to racism?
  • Did Lyndon Johnson’s ‘War on Poverty’ help or hurt the black community?

During the second half of the episode, you’ll also hear the fascinating story of how their ministry started, including details of the supernatural event that brought them together and how their friendship remained intact despite the seemingly insurmountable barriers they encountered along the way. It’s an amazing testimony of how God still intervenes in our lives today and you definitely don’t want to miss it!

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

Resources mentioned during the episode:

Link to previous podcast with Monique & Krista: https://bit.ly/4i3cR0B
The Center for Biblical Unity: https://www.centerforbiblicalunity.com/
Walking in Unity: Biblical Answers to Questions on Race and Racism: https://a.co/d/hEuCdwe

 

Download Transcript

 

Did the Exodus REALLY happen? Contrary to popular belief, archaeologists continue to uncover fascinating artifacts that point to the validity of the Israelites’ Exodus from Egypt and even more incredible—some of the most compelling evidence comes straight out of Egypt itself!

In preparation for Frank’s upcoming trip to Egypt and Saudi Arabia, this podcast episode dives into 8 reasons why we can trust the biblical account of the 1446 B.C. Exodus and some of the details might surprise you! Listen as Frank answers questions like:

 

  • What archaeological evidence suggests that the Hebrews lived in Egypt prior to 1446 B.C.?
  • Does the biblical account of the Exodus line up with the archaeological evidence?
  • What do some of the Egyptian sources reveal about the historicity of the Bible?
  • What are the surprising parallels between Moses & Jesus?
  • What was the significance of each of the ten plagues against Egypt?

 

Want to see pictures of everything that Frank is talking about? Don’t miss the premiere of the video podcast on the CrossExamined YouTube channel TONIGHT (11/29) at 9:00 PM ET where the visuals make the archaeology come to life and stay tuned to our social media channels during the next two weeks to see LIVE video footage from Frank’s upcoming trip!

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

WATCH THE VIDEO PODCAST: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2UxkQqrqkK8

 

Download Transcript

 

Are you dreading the upcoming holiday dinners where you’ll be in close proximity with friends, family, and loved-ones who aren’t Christians? Let’s face it—holiday gatherings with friends and family who don’t share your worldview can feel awkward. But they’re also incredible opportunities to share the Gospel! If you’re in search of some practical tips to make faith conversations a little less painful this Thanksgiving and Christmas, listen up!

In this week’s podcast, Frank shares 10 practical strategies to help you navigate holiday faith conversations with confidence and without making a scene. He’ll answer questions like:

  • Are you setting realistic goals for sharing your faith?
  • Why is listening often more impactful than debating?
  • What role should prayer play when evangelizing?
  • What are 3 tactical questions that you can ask and what common objections should you anticipate?
  • How can you combat scientism and logical fallacies when they arise? And how should you respond if politics comes up?

As tempting as it may be, don’t be a homebody this year! Use the upcoming holidays to plant seeds and help others think critically about life’s most important questions. If you need backup, download the CrossExamined app for quick access to helpful resources! And from the CrossExamined family to yours: Happy Thanksgiving and happy seed-planting!

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

Resources mentioned during the episode:

CrossExamined App: https://crossexamined.org/app/
Tactics: https://a.co/d/3k19L4e
The Four-Point Case for Christianity: https://bit.ly/416ovSi
Hollywood Heroes: https://bit.ly/3Or82Ax
Online Christian Courses: https://www.onlinechristiancourses.com/
Books and DVD sets: https://impactapologetics.com/
How to Avoid Political Turmoil with Your Relatives This Thanksgiving: https://bit.ly/3ZmwqcZ
Top Ten Ways to Advance the Gospel at Holiday Dinners: https://bit.ly/40JrsWO

 

Download Transcript

 

If you say the wrong thing about race, even innocently, there’s a pretty good chance you’ll be convicted and cancelled in the court of public opinion and maybe even the church. In fact, the election revealed a divide between ethnic groups in the church. So how can we come together as Christians to discuss this controversial issue without losing friendships in the process?

This week on the podcast, Frank is joined by two people who are no strangers to difficult conversations when it comes to race and religion, Monique Duson and Krista Bontrager, co-founders of The Center for Biblical Unity and co-authors of the brand-new and much anticipated book, ‘Walking in Unity: Biblical Answers to Questions on Race and Racism.’ Together, Frank, Monique, and Krista tackle the following questions:

  • Why has the black community historically voted for Democrats?
  • Why did more black men vote for Republicans in this past presidential election?
  • What’s the historical connection between slavery and abortion?
  • Why is equating race to LGBTQ+ issues a fallacy?
  • What does Darwinism have to do with racism?
  • Where did the concept of “race” originally come from and is it biblical?
  • What’s the definition of systemic racism and how is it different from systematic racism?
  • Why is defining our terms so important?
  • Why do we see such a high percentage of black men committing crimes and going to prison? Is systemic racism to blame?
  • What is the ultimate solution to all of this?

You may be tempted to avoid the subject of race and racism at all costs during your everyday conversations, but as Christians we have a moral obligation to walk towards problems and not away from them. As you listen to the program, you’ll be encouraged by Monique and Krista as they discuss with grace and clarity the tough issues that the larger culture has brought into our churches. Be sure to grab a copy of their book, ‘Walking in Unity‘, for an even more in-depth look at these issues along with clear and concise explanations for why we’re all brothers and sisters in the family of Christ!

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

Resources mentioned during the episode:

The Center for Biblical Unity: https://www.centerforbiblicalunity.com/
Walking in Unity: Biblical Answers to Questions on Race and Racism: https://a.co/d/hEuCdwe

 

Download Transcript

 

What impact has CORE Apologetics made since its launch just a year ago? At last year’s SES Steadfast conference, CrossExamined Board Member Dan Hodges sat down with Dr. Ben Shaw, CORE’s president and protégé of Dr. Gary Habermas, about the mission of this new apologetics ministry. Now, one year later, CORE has made exciting strides in reaching young people and truth seekers on a journey to discover the facts about Christianity.

In this midweek podcast episode, Dr. Ben Shaw returns, joined by CORE’s founder Dr. Ron Davis, to share the latest updates and breakthroughs the ministry has achieved. Join Dan as he catches up with Ben and Ron who will share how CORE is training up a new wave of apologists, how they’re making disciples, engaging Gen Z, and helping believers and skeptics tackle their doubts. During the conversation, they’ll answer questions like:

  • What are the three types of doubt and why is it important to identify the type of doubt that a person may be dealing with?
  • How can exploring doubts strengthen your faith as a Christian?
  • What has the latest Barna research uncovered about Gen Z’s interest in religion?
  • Why are young people beginning to lose faith in social media?
  • Why is it important to have an intellectual and emotional confidence in the Gospel? And what is the value in learning New Testament reliability?

Curious to learn more about CORE’s mission and how you can support their work? Visit their website to explore free resources, consider donating, and check out Ben’s new book, ‘Trustworthy‘, designed to help introduce believers to the evidence surrounding the Resurrection in a unique way.

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

Resources mentioned during the episode:

Core Apologetics ministry: https://www.coreapologetics.com/

Trustworthy: Thirteen Arguments for the Reliability of the New Testament: https://a.co/d/0IRe2Rf

 

Download Transcript

 

Why do people remain shocked that a majority of Christians (and the nation) voted for Donald Trump? How is that voting like Jesus?

This week, Frank invites Pastor Josh Howerton of Lakepointe Church in Dallas, TX to talk about Josh’s recent (and somewhat controversial!) political sermon, ‘How to Vote Like Jesus‘. In it, Pastor Josh points out that when the government moves past things like building roads and teaching kids their ABCs, to redefining marriage, promoting transgender ideology in public schools, and reframing infant murder as “reproductive rights”, it should be clear that Christians need to be involved. But with so much confusion going around about “legislating morality” and “the separation of Church and State”, how can Christians (and their pastors) develop a proper theology of politics?

In this podcast, Frank asks Pastor Josh to answer questions like:

  • What kind of feedback did he receive after his politically charged sermon?
  • What are the three types of leaders that we find in the Bible and how do they relate to the recent presidential election?
  • Who is at the top of the Political Org Chart in America, and why do Christians have a responsibility to be involved?
  • What is the key difference between the current Democrat and Republican platforms that some Christians are overlooking?
  • Is the Church becoming more political? Or have politics become more spiritual?
  • Is it really necessary for Christians to vote if both candidates are morally corrupt?
  • How can pastors effectively disciple their congregations in the area of politics?
  • How do you respond when someone accuses you of trying to legislate morality as a Christian?

As Frank and Pastor Josh reflect on the overlap between Christian morality and government legislation, they’ll explore how a robust theology of politics can help Christians uphold moral standards that limit evil and support a flourishing society. Now that the election is behind us, will the American Church take advantage of God’s extension of mercy on our country? Or will we once again drift into complacency? All this and more will be discussed in this entertaining and educational podcast episode!

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

Resources mentioned during the episode:

Follow Pastor Josh on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/josh_howerton/
Pastor Josh’s sermon ‘How to Vote Like Jesus’: https://youtu.be/SitsLDo6X_Y
Lakepointe Church in Dallas, TX: https://lakepointe.church/
Calvin Robinson’s Oxford Union Speech: https://youtu.be/ymbTb2HS5Rc
George Barna article on 2024 Election Results: https://bit.ly/3YRHopn

 

Download Transcript

 

Is the Shroud of Turin a genuine relic of Christ’s burial or an elaborate medieval forgery? One of the most fascinating artifacts tied to Christianity, this ancient cloth continues to puzzle scientists and historians. What does the latest research reveal about the Shroud and what should we conclude about its validity based on the available evidence?

This week on the podcast, CrossExamined board member Dan Hodges sits down with New Testament scholar and resurrection expert, Dr. Gary Habermas, at the SES Steadfast Conference for an in-depth exploration of the Shroud of Turin. In their discussion, Dan and Dr. Habermas examine the complex history and preservation of the Shroud, digging into why it has captivated both scholars and skeptics for decades. Together, they’ll tackle questions such as:

  • What are the most crucial questions for assessing the Shroud’s authenticity?
  • Could the burial cloth of Jesus truly have survived for nearly 2,000 years?
  • What evidence supports or refutes the theory that the Shroud was created in the Middle Ages? Could it depict someone other than Jesus?
  • How do non-biblical sources, archaeology, and medical research contribute to our understanding of crucifixion practices?
  • What kind of event could have imprinted the image of a 6 ft., 180 lb. man on this ancient cloth?

As Dr. Habermas unpacks over 40 years of Shroud research, discover why this remarkable artifact continues to be a point of discussion in Christian apologetics and Church history. Has Gary’s research brought him closer to confirming its connection to the historical Jesus, or is there still room for skepticism regarding its origins, mysterious markings, and worldwide impact? Tune in for the answers from one of the leading experts himself!

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

Resources mentioned during the episode:

Gary’s website: https://garyhabermas.com/
On the Resurrection, Volume 1 (Evidences) : https://a.co/d/1iufB8j
On the Resurrection, Volume 2 (Refutations): https://a.co/d/8O4Yc78

 

Download Transcript

 

Feeling anxious about the 2024 presidential election? Take heart! God’s Word has wisdom for us on all the big issues—government, leadership, rebellion, sovereignty, anxiety, and prayer. Listen as Frank encourages listeners with Scripture from both the Old and New Testaments and talks about what it means to vote with a biblical perspective. He’ll dig into questions like:

  • Are borders biblical? And how does illegal immigration impact American housing?
  • What’s the solution to a divided nation?
  • Is it ever right to peacefully disobey government?
  • How should Christians respond if our preferred candidate loses?
  • How can we love our neighbors through politics?

With the country divided, we need a spiritual revival now more than ever. Let’s prepare our hearts, pray for our leaders, and make our voices heard at the polls. If you haven’t already, be sure to visit VoteYourFaith.net so that you can get informed about the candidates on your local ballot!

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 Voting Guides: https://voteyourfaith.net/
The Democrats’ Insanity Defense: https://bit.ly/4ffepmy

 

Download Transcript

 

Don’t think the government will ever take your child? Think again. Laura Bryant Hanford, contributing writer to The Federalist, returns to the podcast to expose how the government is overriding your parental rights and harming children both mentally and physically in the name of “trans-rights”. Once you hear some of these heartbreaking horror stories happening in America (like Abigail Maritinez from California), you’ll be reminded of the importance of policy, and how Christians and all people should love their neighbors enough to prevent future generations from experiencing this madness!

During their discussion, Frank and Laura will address questions like:

  • How often and in what states are children being taken away from their parents?
  • What are some specific examples of this happening in the U.S.?
  • Why are some doctors hiding the most recent research data on the effects of “gender-affirming care” on children?
  • Where do the candidates stand on this issue?
  • Why is the Biden-Harris administration suing the state of Tennessee?
  • Who is advocating to lower the age of consent, and how would that change what’s taught in public schools?
  • How would the misnamed “Equality Act” impact our religious freedoms?
  • What kind of impact has the Biden-Harris administration made on the foster care system?
  • What can parents do if they find themselves in a situation where the government wants to take their child?

Please check out the references below for confirmation and details of what Frank and Laura discuss. Also, be sure to visit VoteYourFaith.net to access a digital voting guide for your address and other helpful resources so you can see where the candidates stand on important policy issues like this.

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

Resources mentioned during the episode:

Helpful articles and resources on Gender Ideology and Child Protection Systems (PDF)
VoteYourFaith.net
The Government Took & Transitioned Her Child: A Grieving Mother Testifies
The Heritage Foundation
The Daily Caller
The Federalist

Download Transcript

Frank responds to listener questions and a charge that he is ignoring facts. He also exposes media deception in this election cycle, and shows the shocking connection between the abortion pill and Zyklon B (the gas the Nazis used in the gas chambers). Questions include:

  • What is the most important question that humans can ask and why can’t we discuss it in public schools?
  • What’s the best way for Christian teachers to discuss faith matters with students without referring to the Bible?
  • How can Christians vote for someone who doesn’t act like a Christian? Does that make us hypocrites?
  • How has the media repeatedly taken Donald Trump’s statements out of context?
  • What are some good and fair media sources?
  • If the majority of abortions are “pharmaceutical” what’s the big deal?
  • Are late-term abortions a myth?

You’ll also want to see Seth Gruber’s revealing documentary about the history of abortion and Planned Parenthood called The 1916 Project (NOT the bogus 1619 Project) which is available for FREE for a short time on X. It has over 1 million views in 24 hours!

And as you continue to prepare for the upcoming election, be sure to visit VoteYourFaith.net where you can use the iVoterGuide and other helpful resources to get a breakdown of all the candidates and their policies on your local ballot!

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

Resources mentioned during the episode:

Seth Gruber’s The 1916 Project: https://bit.ly/4hkJUgu
Helpful Resources & Voting Guide: VoteYourFaith.net
Just Facts: https://www.justfacts.com/
Does the Media Lie About Donald Trump? https://bit.ly/3Yarxli
NewsBusters: https://newsbusters.org/
AllSides: https://www.allsides.com/
The Parasitic Mind: https://a.co/d/c0gFqtF
Undercover Planned Parenthood video: https://bit.ly/3BFt6jQ
Calling a Late-Term Abortion Facility: https://bit.ly/3BWfDEo