I Don't Have Enough FAITH to Be an ATHEIST

What is the eternal message of hope that we are privileged to have here in the United States (and other parts of the West) that many people around the world don't have? It is the Gospel--the saving grace of Jesus Christ. And it was Jesus Himself who told us to go and make disciples of ALL NATIONS. But with only about 20% of the world speaking English (that’s only 1 out of 5 people), how can we reach the other 80% with not only the Gospel, but also with the evidence for Christianity? And how can that be accomplished most effectively without breaking the bank? In this week's podcast episode, Frank, Phoenix, and Jorge team up to discuss how CrossExamined is chartering unprecedented territories by way of cyberspace (today's Roman roads). With the help of God, cutting-edge technology, and generous donors, we're using artificial intelligence (AI) and social media in ways that they have NEVER been used before! During the episode, Frank, Phoenix, and Jorge will share some of the exciting details surrounding this brand-new endeavor, known as the "Kingdom AI Project”, and you’ll hear Frank speak languages that he really doesn’t speak! They'll also answer questions like: Why is it wise for Christians to use AI technology in this way? Why is the Kingdom AI Project targeting Africa first? What does the Tower of Babel and Pentecost have to do with any of this? How is the Kingdom AI Project more cost-effective than traditional in-person missionaries? How does the CE budget and online reach compare to RZIM (which sadly is no longer in existence)? How can Christians all over the world get involved in the project to reach their local communities?   We are convinced that the Gospel message can overcome dark forces even in places where it's prohibited to talk about Christianity. This could very well be the BIGGEST feat in the history of apologetics anywhere in the world, which is why we're requesting all hands-on deck to help us reach this epic goal. Please join us today so that we can continue to grow God's kingdom by sharing the evidence for truth and the Gospel message using over 30 languages to reach 3 BILLION PEOPLE across the globe! 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. Watch the Kingdom AI Project video and support our mission HERE. Download Transcript

How in the world did a biochemist with a Muslim father find his saving grace through Jesus Christ? Fazale “Fuz” Rana is president, CEO, and senior scholar of Reasons to Believe (RTB), an organization dedicated to communicating the powerful scientific case for God’s existence and the Bible’s reliability to both Christians and non-Christians. Though he initially embraced the evolutionary paradigm, he eventually drew the conclusion that only a Creator’s involvement could explain the elegance of biochemical systems. But how? In this midweek podcast episode, Dan sits down with Fuz (a former agnostic) to discuss how science and faith intricately work together, ultimately pointing to the reality of intelligent design. Why did Fuz lose interest in Islam? What led him to embrace the Gospel message? How did biochemistry dislodge Fuz's materialistic worldview? What ultimately led him to partner with RTB, and what is the hopeful future of this innovative apologetics ministry? Dan and Fuz will address all of these questions and MUCH more in this heartfelt (but informative) 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. Download Transcript

Can we REALLY believe in Noah's ark? Practically speaking, the idea of a massive flood, a giant ark, a rainbow covenant, and the preservation of animals through the care of one small family on an ancient ship sounds outlandish at best. But are there legitimate answers to some of the most common objections raised by skeptics in regards to this well-known Bible story? Earlier this month, Frank had the pleasure of visiting the Ark Encounter, which is an AMAZING exhibit that features a full-size replica of Noah's ark based on the dimensions specified in the Bible. During his time at the Ark Encounter, Frank got to meet up with the founder, Ken Ham, and The Ark's content manager, Dr. Timothy Chaffey. In this unique and exciting podcast episode, Tim joins Frank to answer some questions about Noah's Ark and The Ark Encounter such as: Around what time period did Noah enter the ark and how long did it take him to build it? How did Noah track down all the different animals? Could a million animal species fit on Noah's ark? What do young-earthers and old-earthers have in common? Is there evidence for a global flood outside of the Bible? What's the origin story behind the Ark Encounter and were Kentucky tax dollars used to fund it?   Most atheists, scientists, and philosophers agree that space, time, and matter had a beginning out of nothing. While they won’t admit that God is the cause, they are admitting the evidence for the Bible’s greatest miracle--Genesis 1:1. And if Genesis 1:1 is actually true (and it is), then Noah's ark is certainly possible! This podcast episode will only scratch the surface in the discussion of Noah's ark, so be sure to pick up a copy of Tim's book 'Inside Noah's Ark: Why It Worked' (co-authored by Laura Welch) and add an Ark Encounter visit to the top of your bucket list! 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. Ark Encounter: https://arkencounter.com/ Purchase additional books by Tim here: https://bit.ly/49OOxvh Download Transcript

What (if anything) can the Bible teach us about climate change? Arguably, the most controversial aspect of the climate change debate seems to be whether it's occurring naturally or as a result of human technological advances. But with an issue as polarizing and politicized as it's become over the last few decades, is there a rational way to work towards a solution that benefits everyone (along with our environment)? In this midweek podcast episode, astrophysicist and best-selling author, Dr. Hugh Ross of Reasons to Believe, joins Dan to discuss Hugh's book 'Weathering Climate Change: A Fresh Approach.' Atheists and skeptics often question WHY God made the universe the way that He did, a question that Hugh will unpack for the audience in this episode. Hugh and Dan will also answer questions like: What is God's ultimate goal for humanity and the universe? Does the Bible offer any insight as to how to approach the issue of climate change? Why are so many species becoming extinct? What are the benefits of an ice age cycle? How could improving climate change impact the economy?   As you'll discover in this podcast, the universe is just one of the tools that God will use to eradicate the problem of evil and suffering. But until that happens, we all have the responsibility to properly preserve our planet for future generations. Listen as Hugh offers his insight on the best ways to accomplish that goal and confronts some of the misconceptions surrounding faith, politics, and climate change. 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. Reasons to Believe: https://reasons.org/ Hugh's book: https://a.co/d/4mFfXjS Download Transcript

This show will bless you if you have ever supported CrossExamined.org (and even if you haven’t). Just two weeks ago at the Unshaken conference in Nashville, TN, Frank was both shocked and honored to learn that a group of graduates from the CrossExamined Instructor Academy (CIA) began a book project back in 2019 called, 'Faith Examined: New Arguments for Persistent Questions, Essays in Honor of Dr. Frank Turek'. The first copy of that book was given to Frank that night! In this week's podcast episode, Frank interviews the book's editor, Professor and New Testament scholar, Clark Bates, who spearheaded the project. During their conversation, Frank and Clark answer questions like: How did a festschrift in honor of CrossExamined come about? Which apologists have contributed to the book and what are some of the key points they make? Who is Richard Rohr and what is the so-called "Jesus Hermeneutic" that is popular amoung progressive Christians? How do we know that way of interpreting the Bible is wrong? How does Clark approach the reliability of Scripture? How is this book actually an honor for all supporters of CrossExamined?   In addition to Clark Bates, contributors to the book include, Alisa Childers, Natasha Crain, Jorge Gil, Sean McDowell, Alex McElroy, Tim Stratton, Eric Chabot, Phil Fernandes, Melissa Dougherty, William Soo Hoo, and Eric Hernandez. A labor of love that was four years in the making, 'Faith Examined' will help you respond to the most current objections to Christianity as it celebrates the contributions of CIA students and the dedicated supporters of CrossExamined.  Please click the link below to get this great book and support the work of Clark and the contributors! 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. Purchase ‘Faith Examined’: https://a.co/d/1tmjbuz Learn more about Clark here: https://bit.ly/40Hs6UA Connect with Clark on Twitter: https://twitter.com/crbates1 Download Transcript

Do evangelical Christians hold political views that are "wildly extreme"? If the sanctity of human life and the institution of marriage being solely between one man and one woman are extreme, then the answer is a resounding yes! Jihadist terrorism on the other hand? Not so much. Since when did defending basic human rights, freedom of religion, and free speech become extreme? Furthermore, why is the left so hesitant to condemn such heinous acts against humanity, even as those acts continue to threaten western civilization as we know it? In this midweek podcast episode, Frank continues the discussion on attorney Marci A. Hamilton's hit piece that accused House Speaker, Mike Johnson, of pushing theocracy in America. What are some of the glaring inconsistencies within Hamilton's recent article? Is all religious truth irrational? Why did science arise in the Christian world but not the Muslim world? Frank will tackle all these questions and show more video evidence that representative Johnson is not at all guilty of being a theocrat. 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

Are Christian politicians plotting to turn America into a theocracy? That's precisely what the woke media outlets want you to think, often accusing Christians of trying to violate the “separation of church and state". They also accuse Christians of trying to legislate morality. But if Christians and conservatives don't have the "right" to legislate morality, who does? House Speaker, Mike Johnson, was recently accused of being a theocrat in an article published by The Guardian titled 'Mike Johnson, Theocrat: The House Speaker and a Plot Against America.' In this week's podcast episode, Frank reviews the scathing article that was written by attorney Marci A. Hamilton who analyzes an old clip from Representative Mike Johnson. Frank will also address questions like: What is the true definition of a theocracy? Should principles found in the Bible be eradicated from all public policy? What objective source do Leftists and atheists have for public policy? Is the "separation of church and state"  in the constitution and is it even an issue? Is there a difference between legislating religion and legislating morality? Were the founding fathers anti-religious? Does the Bible advise Christians to establish a theocracy?   Listen as Frank addresses some of the erroneous charges made against Mike Johnson and unpacks some of the political, moral, and apologetic implications of Hamilton's accusations. Who exactly is the moral authority for non-Christians and those on the far left? All this and more will be discussed in this thought-provoking 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. Download Transcript

How much does archaeology actually reveal about the claims made in the New Testament? The four Gospels give us key details into the life and ministry of Jesus, the disciples, and the culture of Jerusalem at that time. But can a solid case for the truth of Christianity be made based on archaeological discoveries alone? Furthermore, can the secular worldview of most archaeologists account for these discoveries? In this exciting follow-up podcast episode, best-selling author and leading archaeologist, Joel P. Kramer, returns to share several convincing pieces of evidence that support the historical reliability of the New Testament. How do we know the location of Jesus' tomb? Did archaeologists really find the bones of Jesus? What other names mentioned in the New Testament have been tied to modern-day archaeological finds? You won't want to miss this insightful conversation between Frank and Joel as they tackle these questions and much more! 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. Expedition Bible on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ExpeditionBible Joel's book: https://a.co/d/77yRIyJ Download Transcript

What can recent archaeological discoveries tell us about the historicity of the Bible? The miraculous destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah and the equally miraculous fall of Jericho seem far-fetched to modern-day skeptics and Bible critics. But is it reasonable to discount what's written in the Bible when excavation findings have consistently corroborated events recorded in the Old Testament? In this fascinating podcast episode, Frank invites best-selling author and archaeologist, Joel P. Kramer, to unpack some of the greatest archaeological evidence for the validity of both history and prophecy recorded in the Bible. On his popular YouTube channel, Expedition Bible, Joel documents many of the sites referenced in Scripture, giving viewers the opportunity to see the Bible come to life! Throughout their talk, Frank and Joel will cover topics like: What is Joel's greatest personal find? Is there anything special about Ancient Babylon today? How has the secularization of archaeology affected the field? Why should biblical chronology be considered more reliable than pottery chronology? How was the Moabite Stone discovered and why is it considered one of the greatest archaeological finds of all time?   As you'll hear during this episode, archaeology and the Bible work together like a jigsaw puzzle. As experts in the field continue to uncover ancient artifacts, the Bible gives context to many of those unique finds. To learn more about the exciting advances in biblical archaeology, be sure to check out Joel's YouTube channel and purchase his best-selling book, 'Where God Came Down.' 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. Expedition Bible on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ExpeditionBible Joel's book: https://a.co/d/77yRIyJ Download Transcript

Has the idea of biblical inerrancy gone out of style? In today's modern church we've seen far too many professing Christians and even pastors struggle with biblical illiteracy, some choosing to abandon the biblical worldview altogether. As hostility towards the Christian faith continues to grow and commitment to the Gospel continues to decline, how can true followers of Christ equip themselves to learn, live out, and defend the truth of Christianity? In this midweek podcast episode, Dan Hodges, Executive Director of CrossExamined, sits down with Dr. Ben Shaw, president of Core Apologetics, to talk about Ben's faith journey and how his love for Jesus, evangelism, (and hockey of all things!) led him to a career and ministry in New Testament scholarship, working alongside the world-renowned resurrection scholar, Gary Habermas. What is the mission of Core Apologetics and how has Gary Habermas' lifelong research impacted this much needed ministry? How do you live out a biblical worldview if you're in a career like medicine or law enforcement? All this and more will be discussed in this special follow-up conversation with Dr. Ben Shaw! 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. Pre-Order Volume 1 of Gary Habermas' magnum opus: https://a.co/d/0sl9qhu Core Apologetics: https://www.coreapologetics.com/ Download Transcript

Do we have good enough reasons to believe that the New Testament documents are really telling the truth? One of the most effective ways to establish that Christianity is actually true is to demonstrate that Jesus rose from the dead. But do the Gospel accounts contain enough evidence to support a literal, historical, and miraculous first century resurrection? During the recent Steadfast apologetics conference hosted by SES, Frank sat down with Dr. Ben Shaw of Liberty University, who is working alongside the great New Testament scholar, Dr. Gary Habermas, on four volumes of Gary's magnum opus. Ben holds a PhD in Theology and Apologetics, serves as the president of the brand-new ministry Core Apologetics, and is also the author of the upcoming book entitled 'Trustworthy: 13 Arguments for the Reliability of the New Testament', which will be released in 2024. In this week's podcast episode, Ben and Frank tackle questions like: How do scholars determine the dating of the Gospels? Is there better historical evidence for Jesus than for Alexander the Great? What has it been like working with Dr. Habermas on his magnum opus? What are some of the most embarrassing details recorded in the New Testament and how do they support its reliability? Should the Gospels be categorized as historical fiction? What are the minimal facts that even skeptics like Bart Ehrman accept about the New Testament?   Early documents, eyewitnesses, and embarrassing testimonies are just a few pieces of evidence that show that the New Testament is a credible source for the historical Jesus. As you'll hear in the show, mounting evidence for the resurrection continues to strengthen the claims of the risen Jesus, even causing non-Christians to acknowledge the evidence as valid. There's no doubt you'll be encouraged by what you learn in this discussion! To view the entire VIDEO PODCAST be sure to join our CrossExamined private community. It’s the perfect place to jump into some great discussions with like-minded Christians while simultaneously providing financial support for our ministry. You can also SUPPORT THE PODCAST HERE. Pre-Order Volume 1 of Gary Habermas' magnum opus: https://a.co/d/0sl9qhu Core Apologetics: https://www.coreapologetics.com/ Download Transcript

What are the ins and outs of so-called "gender affirming care?" Although it's a well-known FACT that it's biologically impossible for anyone to change their sex, the process for sex trait modification (which can include hormonal drugs, experimental surgeries, and a long list of life-altering and even deadly complications), continues to be promoted by the left as a solution for gender dysphoria. What steps can Christians, conservatives, and concerned citizens take to stop the practice of mutilating perfectly healthy bodies (children included) from happening in our own communities? In this special midweek podcast episode, Dr. Jay Richards from The Heritage Foundation returns to talk about the horrors of "gender transitioning" and the gains that have been made to end the practice on minors once and for all. What are the 4 steps of gender-affirming care (which should be more accurately labeled as 'gender identity affirming treatment') and who are some of the surprising allies that have joined Christians and conservatives in the fight against this dangerous social trend? Listen as Jay and Frank answer all these questions and more! To view the entire VIDEO PODCAST be sure to join our CrossExamined private community. It’s the perfect place to jump into some great discussions with like-minded Christians while simultaneously providing financial support for our ministry. You can also SUPPORT THE PODCAST HERE. Connect with Dr. Jay Richards Twitter: https://twitter.com/DrJayRichards The Heritage Foundation: https://www.heritage.org/staff/jay-w-richards-phd Download Transcript

Is gender ideology (a form of cultural Marxism) actually about saving "trans" kids, or is there an underlying sinister motive behind it? Somehow this specific brand of critical theory has managed to make its way into public schools, pediatric medicine, and now the White House of all places! But is there anything that Christians, conservatives, and concerned citizens can do about it? During this week's podcast episode, Dr. Jay Richards, Senior Research Fellow and Director of the DeVos Center for Life, Religion, and Family at The Heritage Foundation, Senior Research Fellow at the Discovery Institute, and Executive Editor of The Stream, joins Frank at the recent SES Steadfast conference to discuss the history of gender ideology and how it's contributing to the crippling of Western society as we know it. During this podcast episode, Jay and Frank will answer questions like: How is compassion being weaponized against Christians? How do we know for certain that sex is binary? Why is it imperative that state and federal laws define biological gender? What are the implications if gender ideology is legalized? Is there a connection between Gnosticism and gender ideology? What is the ultimate goal of gender ideology and critical theorists?   Critical theories like gender ideology and CRT have proved time and time again to be cultural wrecking balls that reject reason. If non-Christians like Bill Maher, Dave Rubin, and Richard Dawkins are emboldened to speak out against this madness, what's our excuse as Christians? This eye-opening podcast episode will expose the dire need for the Church to SPEAK UP and the inevitable consequences to follow if gender ideology ever takes over. To view the entire VIDEO PODCAST be sure to join our CrossExamined private community. It’s the perfect place to jump into some great discussions with like-minded Christians while simultaneously providing financial support for our ministry. You can also SUPPORT THE PODCAST HERE. Connect with Dr. Jay Richards Twitter: https://twitter.com/DrJayRichards The Heritage Foundation: https://www.heritage.org/staff/jay-w-richards-phd Download Transcript

Was Hamas most recent barbaric treatment of the Israelis just the result of an age-old land dispute? That's exactly what radical leftist groups like Black Lives Matter want you to believe, but they couldn't be more wrong! What if this horrific massacre against innocent civilians by Hamas is giving us a glimpse into the true heart of Islam and the overall worldview of the Middle East? In this midweek podcast episode, Frank confronts many of the myths being spread about the Israeli/Palestinian war(s) with a little help from Ben Shapiro's most recent responses on YouTube. If the war isn't actually about a land grab, then what's REALLY behind such relentless Muslim aggression towards the people of Israel? Frank will address this issue and also touch on questions like: What are 4 FALSE claims being made about the land in Israel? How do we know this is NOT about land? (See the Qur’an, Islamic history and the Hamas charter!) Did Jesus affirm the death penalty? How did Christianity impact the rules of war in modern society? Why shouldn't we refer to members of Hamas as "animals"? The Jews love life, while Hamas boasts in their love for death. Many of us don't want to believe that people are so barbaric that they will brutally murder babies in their cribs and torture defenseless civilians. We don't want to believe that this isn't just a land squabble. As you'll find out in this podcast episode, this so-called land squabble and "fight for freedom" is nothing more than a form of propaganda being used to incite worldwide antisemitism. As the details continue to unfold, remember to pray for peace in Israel and for the salvation of everyone, including those who want to see Israel’s demise. 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: Ben Shapiro’s video: https://bit.ly/46SWkGd Palestinian Authority article: https://palwatch.org/page/34650   Download Transcript  

How can you negotiate with people who are intent on your destruction and are even willing to commit demonic acts to do so? The world watched in horror as the terrorist organization, Hamas, carried out the brutal attacks against innocent and defenseless Israeli citizens this past weekend, mercilessly slaughtering entire families, raping women, and dismembering young infants and children. Can these heinous crimes that we've witnessed offer any insight as to why God ordered the "utter destruction" of the enemies of Old Testament Israel? In light of the recent terror attacks in Israel, Dr. Paul Copan sits down with Frank to reflect on this centuries old conflict and how it relates to some of the events that took place in the Old Testament. Paul will also talk more about his latest book, 'Is God a Vindictive Bully: Reconciling Portrayals of God in the Old and New Testaments,' which was written to help Christians better understand the biblical and historical backdrop of the hostility between Israel and the surrounding nations. During the episode, Paul and Frank answer questions like: Why won't Palestinians make peace with Israel? Why would God order people groups to be killed in the Old Testament? Isn't that 'ethnic cleansing?' What's going on with Frank's Israel trip that was planned for November? What are imprecatory prayers and what do they reveal about the human condition and the nature of God? How long did God wait before He brought judgment to Israel's enemies? In the words of New Testament scholar, N.T. Wright, "If God is not wrathful, then He is not loving." As Christians, we should pray for the peace and safety of Israel, pray for the innocent civilians caught in the middle of the war(s), and pray for the salvation of those involved in these attacks. But if God is truly as loving and as just as the Bible describes Him, can He allow such wickedness and evil to go unpunished for those who don't repent? Absolutely not! 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. Dr. Paul Copan's website: http://www.paulcopan.com/ Dr. Paul Copan's books: https://amzn.to/3RRjXe0   Download Transcript