I Don’t Have Enough Faith to Be an Atheist

Who (or WHAT) is discipling you and your family? We often talk about discipleship in Christian circles, with most of us instinctively associating it with some form of ministry training. While this is certainly an aspect of discipleship, it doesn’t quite encapsulate the concept as a whole. Is it safe to assume that the Church has been exclusive in its pursuit of producing disciples? Or has the culture managed to make a few disciples of its own? In this midweek podcast, Phoenix Hayes sits down with former public school teacher, OCC instructor, and Biola certified Christian apologist, Shanda Fulbright, to talk about some practical ways to make faithful disciples. With help from Daniel and his Jewish friends, Shanda will explain what Christians can learn about discipleship from their experience in Babylon. During the episode, Phoenix and Shanda will answer questions like: What are three key ingredients to effective discipleship? Is Christian discipleship just another form of “indoctrination”? Why were Daniel, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego targeted by Babylon? How many professing Christians in the U.S. actually hold a biblical worldview? What can parents (and the Church) do to curtail culture’s influence on their kids?   As you’ll hear during this episode, the unwavering faith of Daniel, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego didn’t happen by accident. What was it that gave them the courage and the confidence to stand against the culture of their day? Listen and learn! Do you need help discipling your 6-8th grader? Then don’t miss the opportunity to enroll your child in Shanda’s upcoming PREMIUM COURSE, ‘Let’s Get Real: Examining the Evidence for God‘, which kicks off on January 8th! During this 12-week course, each student will participate in 11 LIVE Zoom discussions with Shanda, and the 12th week will feature a LIVE Q&A session with Frank! Class starts soon so don’t delay, enroll your child HERE today! 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 Shanda online: https://www.shandafulbright.com/ Take one of Shanda’s online courses: Train Your Brain: An Introduction to Logic – Self-Paced version for KIDS or ADULTS Let’s Get Real: Examining the Evidence for God – PREMIUM course for 6-8th graders starts on 1/8! Grab a copy of our new comic book just in time for Christmas! HARDCOVER – $11.99 SOFTCOVER – $3.99

How do we know that life is designed? Would it surprise you to know that it can be done mathematically? You see, things like biological systems, specified complexity, and probabilistic hurdles leave no reasonable explanation for life as we know it without a creator. But are atheists and skeptics willing and able to address these hurdles without attributing them to so-called “chance”? In this week’s podcast episode, Frank interviews Dr. William “Bill” Dembski, one of the founders of the modern-day intelligent design movement, who has an impressive academic background in philosophy, mathematics, and theology and sits on the Board of Directors at the Discovery Institute. In this thought-provoking episode, Bill and Frank team up to discuss the second edition of Bill’s book (co-authored by Winston Ewert) ‘The Design Inference: Eliminating Chance Through Small Probabilities‘, which lays out the mathematical way to detect design in nature. During their conversation, Bill and Frank will answer questions like: What is a design inference and what happens when you apply it to biology? Why did Bill take a 10-year hiatus from his career in academia? How did the use of mathematics to detect design expose the president of Stanford University as a cheat? What do cells and DNA reveal about the complexity of life? What are the challenges that materialists face when trying to explain the origin of life? What are some of the flaws in Richard Dawkins’ argument for ‘Climbing Mount Improbable’? What do monkeys and Shakespeare have in common?   As you’ll hear in this episode, it isn’t just a religious position that supports the existence of an intelligent designer. Objections to design, such as the argument from ignorance, are not valid when the design inference is applied correctly. How do we know that life is designed? Because the numbers just don’t lie! 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 ‘The Design Inference’ (2nd Edition): https://a.co/d/bfwaDUT Connect with Bill online: https://billdembski.com/

What does the Bible teach us about race, ethnicity, unity, and justice? When Krista Bontrager (a conservative wife, homeschool mom, and Biola graduate) formed a close relationship with Monique Duson (a self-proclaimed former social justice warrior, international missionary, and Biola graduate), both women discovered that even in their shared love for Jesus, their views on these social issues couldn’t have been more diametrically opposed. With a topic as (potentially) divisive, triggering, and racially charged as social justice, how exactly did Krista and Monique manage to develop a close friendship and redirect their prior experiences and individual perspectives to form a ministry dedicated to answering these questions from a biblical worldview? In this midweek podcast episode, CrossExamined’s Staff Writer, Phoenix Hayes, sits down with Monique and Krista, founders of the Center for Biblical Unity, to discuss the inspiration behind their upcoming book ‘Walking in Unity: Biblical Answers to Questions on Race and Racism.’ As they share the origin story of their friendship, you’ll see how walking and talking about their conflicting ideas strengthened their budding friendship and led them to a greater understanding of Critical Theory, including how it fundamentally clashes with the Gospel message. Listen as Phoenix, Monique, and Krista answer questions like: How did Krista and Monique’s upbringing impact their view of American history and the person of Jesus? Should all churches place an emphasis on ethnic diversity? How does their approach in the book tackle the issue of CRT in a unique way? What are some common forms of critical theory and what is the collective goal of each one? How is CRT shaping conversations surrounding the Israel/Hamas conflict?   Krista and Monique’s journey is proof that the Gospel still has the power to unite people from all walks of life, regardless of differences in age, ethnicity, and cultural backgrounds. This is a light-hearted conversation that will make you laugh, but also gives valuable insight into how to have tough conversations fruitfully. Be sure to keep your eyes peeled for more details on when ‘Walking in Unity’ will be available again for pre-order. Due to a minor setback, the original release date has been delayed and the new date is TBD. You can also support Krista and Monique through their work at the Center for Biblical Unity. 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

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.

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

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

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.