I Don’t Have Enough Faith to Be an Atheist

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

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/

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

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

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

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

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

How did Israel get to where it is today? Do Israeli’s have a rightful claim to the land, or does it actually belong to the Palestinians? And is the conflict REALLY about land after all? We can learn a lot about the history of ancient Israel by reading the Bible and studying archaeology, but what else should concerned citizens know about modern-day Israel and the rise of antisemitism since that time? As promised, we’re using the first podcast episode of 2024 to explore the history of modern-day Israel. Just a few weeks ago, nationally known speaker, best-selling author, and historian Bill Federer (founder of The American Minute) joined us to breakdown the TRUE history of Christmas. But this week he’s back to discuss modern Israel’s extensive origin story with Frank. During the show, Frank and Bill will answer questions like: How did the state of modern Israel begin? What archaeological finds corroborate Israel’s long substantiated claim to the land? Was there a state of Palestine before 1948? How has the discovery of oil fueled the rise of antisemitism? Why is every land for peace deal rejected? And is this dispute really about land?   Believe it or not, Frank and Bill only begin the discussion in this podcast episode, so be sure to check out the upcoming midweek podcast episode this Tuesday to look even further into Israel and Palestine’s past, present, and ongoing conflict. There’s so much left to unpack and you have to stay tuned for the conclusion of this historical break down from a true expert! In the meantime, remember to sign up for Bill’s email list so that you can continue to receive history nuggets like this every week! 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. Bill’s book: What Every American Needs to Know about the Qur’an: A History of Islam & the United States Download Transcript

We all witnessed the footage and truly disturbing reports following the 10/7 Hamas attack on Israel, but just how bad was it? With a death toll of 1400+ and hostages who are still in captivity, the devastation caused at the hands of the “religion of peace” can’t be understated. What’s happening in Israel today and what can the Church and Americans do to help? It’s a brand-new year and we’re kicking it off by getting an eyewitness account of what’s really been going on in Israel since it was invaded by the Hamas terrorist group. For this midweek podcast episode, our friend, president of All Things Possible Ministries, and former member of the military, Victor Marx, joins Frank LIVE from Israel to talk about what he’s seen in the aftermath of the recent attacks. How are Victor and his team helping to heal trauma among Israeli citizens? Should Americans be worried about possible attacks in the U.S.? How can we pray for Israel and America? All these questions and more will be addressed in this informative but difficult discussion. Please be forewarned, this conversation may be tough for some to hear and may not be age appropriate for a younger audience. That being said, we feel it’s a much needed subject to tackle in light of these current events and pray that this episode provides encouragement and awareness for our listeners. 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. DONATE to Victor’s work in Israel: https://victormarx.com/israel/

The statistics show that skepticism, atheism, and agnosticism are on the rise among American adults today, along with hostility towards the Christian faith. But what if these current statistics aren’t telling the whole story? Could it be that people are just as curious about God today as they’ve always been? It’s the final podcast episode of 2023 and we’re going out with a bang! This week, Frank talks with the one and only Lee Strobel about his brand-new book, ‘Is God Real: Exploring the Ultimate Question of Life.‘ Aiming to answer today’s biggest objections to God’s existence (the problem of evil and divine hiddenness), Lee uses his latest book to unpack some of the best philosophical, scientific, and historical evidence for God. During their conversation, Frank and Lee will answer questions like: What makes this book unique in comparison to Lee’s previous work? How has the attitude towards atheism evolved in recent decades? Why doesn’t God make His existence more obvious? Which top scholars did Lee interview for the book? Why is faith in God (seemingly) on the decline in America? Which argument for God is most difficult for atheists to counter? What is the Apologetics Pyramid and how do you use it as a tool for evangelism?   As you’ll hear during the episode, not a second goes by without someone (about 200 someones to be exact!) Googling the question: “Is God Real?” which leads to a digital tidal wave of information that generates more confusion than answers. On the contrary, Lee’s book is an easy, yet compelling and logical explanation that pulls the apologetic cookies from the top shelf to the bottom shelf for anyone open and interested in learning more about the evidence we have for God’s existence. And for those who want to go even further in their studies, consider enrolling in the Lee Strobel Center for Evangelism and Applied Apologetics at Colorado Christian University! 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 on the podcast: Lee’s Book: Is God Real? Lee’s website: LeeStrobel.com The Lee Strobel Center at Colorado State University