I Don’t Have Enough Faith to Be an Atheist

Have you ever had someone jump to false conclusions about you based on a single comment or tweet? That’s what you call a hasty generalization, and people on both sides of the political and theological aisle have been guilty of committing this logical fallacy, many times resulting in the marginalization of whomever is on the receiving end of the accusation. In this current season of political chaos, how can you speak your mind (and share the truth) without falling into the trap of becoming a victim (or maybe even a perpetrator) of these snap judgments? This week, Frank addresses 10 hot-button topics in a single podcast episode! How will he cram so much in so little time? Hastily! In this lightning fast discussion on politics, religion, and logical fallacies, Frank will answer questions like: Is it racist to care about border security? Does being concerned about racial disparities mean that a person is “woke”? Is it divisive to call out heresy in church? How did Frank respond when someone called him a bigot? Do Christians seem to carry a lot of political influence as of late? What did the “He Gets Us” ad campaign get wrong…again?   Later in the episode, Frank responds to an email from a skeptic who made a few hasty generalizations in regards to the previous podcast episode featuring Eric Metaxas. Whether it’s political issues like border security and election fraud or theological debates like a young earth versus an old earth, we shouldn’t make assumptions without having sufficient information. Want to learn more about how to avoid hasty generalizations? Consider attending the Fearless Faith conference in Xenia, OH this upcoming weekend (February 16-17)! To view the entire VIDEO PODCAST be sure to join our CrossExamined private community. It’s the perfect place to jump into some great discussions with like-minded Christians while simultaneously providing financial support for our ministry. You can also SUPPORT THE PODCAST HERE.

Is America headed down a dark path similar to that of Nazi Germany? If history has shown us anything, it’s that bad things happen when Christians don’t collectively speak out against evil. The German Church of the 1930’s is a great example of what NOT to do in a tumultuous time of political crisis, but has the American Church fallen into the same passive trap of doing nothing while evil slowly tightens its grip on our country? The groundbreaking ‘Letter to the American Church‘ has hopped off bookshelves across the country, and has now become a brand-new documentary film serving as the final clarion call to sleeping Christians and conservatives. This week, the author of the best-selling book that inspired the film and popular radio host, Eric Metaxas, joins Frank to talk about the movie in detail and to expose the inevitable doom that awaits America if the Church doesn’t wake up now! During the episode, Frank and Eric will answer questions like: What are some of the similarities between 1930’s Germany and the West today? What mistakes did the Church in Germany make and what should Christians in America do differently? Are patriotic Christians guilty of Christian Nationalism? What should you do if your church isn’t concerned about politics? Why does Eric still maintain hope for America?   From open borders to trans ideology, mass abortions and critical race theory, there’s more than enough issues that the Church MUST confront head-on while we still have the chance. As you’ll hear during this episode, when people are doing evil, Christians are morally obligated to stand up just like Jesus did! How can you make a difference? Start by visiting LetterToTheAmericanChurch.com so that you can watch the film for FREE, share it, and learn how to make your voice heard during this unprecedented time in American history! To view the entire VIDEO PODCAST be sure to join our CrossExamined private community. It’s the perfect place to jump into some great discussions with like-minded Christians while simultaneously providing financial support for our ministry. You can also SUPPORT THE PODCAST HERE. Eric’s website: https://ericmetaxas.com/ Eric’s book: https://a.co/d/dWWQ3bV Watch the film: https://lettertotheamericanchurch.com/

What would it take to prove beyond a reasonable doubt that Christianity is true? If God exists and Jesus rose from the dead, then Christianity is true. Case closed! The BIG question is, what evidence do we have in support of these truth claims? Furthermore, are skeptics and non-Christians ready and willing to give the resurrection some serious thought and explore the facts? In this much anticipated podcast episode, Frank invites the great scholar, author, and resurrection expert, Dr. Gary Habermas, on the show to discuss the first volume of his magnum opus, ‘On the Resurrection: Volume 1-Evidences.’ Literally decades in the making, Gary sets the record straight on the historical resurrection, responding to common atheist objections, and exposing the areas of consensus in mainstream scholarship surrounding the major events written about in the Gospels. During the episode, Frank and Gary will answer questions like: What inspired Gary to dedicate his life to researching this topic? What kept Gary from converting to Buddhism? Why is it important for Christians to get familiar with the evidence for the resurrection? Should Christians appeal to the Gospels when arguing for the resurrection? Isn’t that circular reasoning? Why do naturalism and the problem of evil fail to disprove the resurrection?   It’s impossible to touch on everything covered in this massive 1000+ page resurrection investigation during a single episode, but Frank and Gary will address things like the significance of near death experiences (NDEs), share helpful insights from an unlikely source (Bart Ehrman), and talk about how the resurrection brought comfort to Gary during one of the most painful seasons of his life. Be sure to pick up your hard copy of this astonishing work before it sells out! To view the entire VIDEO PODCAST be sure to join our CrossExamined private community. It’s the perfect place to jump into some great discussions with like-minded Christians while simultaneously providing financial support for our ministry. You can also SUPPORT THE PODCAST HERE. Order Gary’s book from Amazon: https://a.co/d/hU8nEoP

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