Explore every episode of the podcast I Don't Have Enough FAITH to Be an ATHEIST

Why are so many popular figures who claim to be Christians supporting anti-Christian positions and is there anything we can do about it? In this special midweek podcast episode recorded LIVE from CrossExamined Instructor Academy 2025 in Charlotte, NC, Frank sits down with Megan Basham, Alisa Childers, and Natasha Crain to discuss some of the popular secular ideas that plague the modern Church and answer questions like:

• Does calling out sin and false teachers cause division in the Church?
• What are four secular beliefs that promote the authority of self vs. the authority of God?
• What are some incentives for going along with the flow instead of standing up for biblical truth?
• Why are truth claims seen as power grabs for those who push back against biblical Christianity?
• What does sourdough baking have to do with deceptive ideas?
• Why is it important to get uncomfortably specific when it comes to calling out false teachers and their ideas?
• What are some good resources for both adults and kids who want to embolden their Christian faith?
• Are we on the verge of another great awakening or revival in the Church?

Be sure to check out some of the valuable resources for both kids and adults that were mentioned during the episode in the list below, and stay tuned for more podcast episodes recorded from CIA 2025!

Resources mentioned during the episode:

Fearless Faith Self-Paced Online Course - https://bit.ly/4kmld3g

Train Your Brain (online logic course for kids & adults) - https://bit.ly/4lMq6ni

Shepherds for Sale by Megan Basham - https://www.amazon.com/dp/0063413442

World Watch News - https://worldwatch.news/

Natasha's books - https://natashacrain.com/books/

Alisa's books -https://alisachilders.com/

Does your church teach you how to interpret the Bible? Sadly, many Christians never learn the tools to read Scripture well, and that leads to all kinds of confusion about theology. But how can we know if we’re handling God’s Word the right way?

This week, Frank sits down with the one and only Mike Winger, a former pastor turned popular YouTuber, who's dedicated his channel to helping Christians understand the Scriptures. In this episode, Mike shares what led him to take his ministry online and explains the five core principles he uses when studying the Bible—principles many churches don’t talk about, but every believer should know! During their conversation, Frank and Mike will dive into questions like:

• Why do some churches seem to avoid the topic of how to interpret the Bible?
• What are some commonly misinterpreted verses in the Bible?
• What does it mean to "turn the other cheek"?
• How can you avoid reading your presuppositions into the Bible?
• Were Jesus' brothers really his cousins?
• What’s the real context of Matthew 7 (“Don’t judge”) and Matthew 5 (“Eye for an eye”)?
• Why is understanding proper word usage so important?
• How has Bart Ehrman misled people about the Gospel of Mark?
• What's one thing that makes the Gospel of Mark so unique?
• Why does Mike feel compelled to call out false teachers?

Be sure to subscribe to Mike’s channel, visit his website BibleThinker.org, and learn how to study your Bible like never before!

Mike's website: https://biblethinker.org/

Mike's YouTube channel: https://youtube.com/@MikeWinger 'How to Interpret Your Bible' Self-Paced Course: https://bit.ly/4asZCD6

HGTV's favorite home-renovating duo, Chip & Joanna Gaines, recently found themselves at the center of controversy after featuring a same sex couple on their new show. While they're known for flipping houses, some Christians are now asking, have they flipped their theology too?

In this solo midweek podcast episode, Frank addresses the cultural pressure Christians face when it comes to affirming homosexuality, and whether it’s ever wrong for believers to judge the sinful behavior of others. Tune in as Frank reacts to the backlash coming from both sides and answers questions like:

• Did Jesus tell us never to judge?
• Is it wrong to address sinful behavior that can hurt other people?
• What's the difference between judging and being judgmental?
• What are the 4 most popular secular and cultural beliefs that have made their way into Christianity?
• Are our feelings a trustworthy guide for moral decisions?
• How did Chip Gaines miss the mark during his recent tweet directed towards "modern American Christians"?
• What’s the best way to correct someone without being obnoxious?

Later in the show, Frank also answers more of your listener questions including:

• Is there a New Testament version of Jeremiah 29:11 that can be applied to modern-day Christians?
• Can people be saved if they believe baptism is essential for salvation?
• What are biblical chiasms, and how do they affect biblical interpretation?
• What evidence shows the disputed long ending of Mark WAS in the original?

Resources mentioned during the episode:

Would Jesus Attend a Gay Wedding? - https://youtu.be/Ulbi94VvxSY Faithfully Different by Natasha Crain - https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09PPY2CWQ

Hollywood Heroes by Frank & Zach Turek - https://bit.ly/3Or82Ax

The Longer Ending of Mark is Authentic! - https://youtu.be/r1Shh2m6w5A

Would you compromise your Christian faith to save your job, your relationships, and your reputation? Or would you have the courage to stand up for what you believe, no matter the consequences?

On July 31, 2020, the Orlando Magic starting forward, Jonathan Isaac, was the lone NBA player not to kneel for the national anthem amid a league-wide demonstration in support of Black Lives Matter. This week, Frank sits down with Jonathan to talk through his inspirational story of faith, conviction, and courage in the face of overwhelming pressure. In this episode, you’ll learn:

• How did Jonathan first become a Christian?
• What apologetics arguments solidified his quest for seeking out the truth?
• How did Jonathan overcome panic attacks and find his true identity beyond basketball?
• What was it like being the only player on his team not to kneel during the national anthem and how did his teammates react?
• What kind of backlash (and unexpected blessings) followed his decision?
• What are some of the unique psychological struggles associated with being a professional basketball player?
• Why did Denzel Washington say "fame is a monster" and how does Jonathan stay grounded in Christ amid the fame, money, and pressure of the NBA?
• What surprising thing happened after Jonathan was dropped by Nike?

We hope this episode encourages you to boldly live out your Christian faith, even when it’s unpopular. To learn more about Jonathan’s powerful story, grab a copy of his book, 'Why I Stand', and check out his sneaker and Christian apparel line at WeAreUnitus.com.

Resources mentioned during the episode:

'Why I Stand' by Jonathan Isaac - https://www.amazon.com/dp/1956007067

Unitus Faith-Forward Footwear & Apparel - https://weareunitus.com/

How much do you really know about Islam? Is it possible that we've never been told the full story about the historic origins of Muhammad, Mecca, and the Qur'an? In this midweek episode, Frank continues his fascinating conversation with Islam expert, Dr. Jay Smith, who has dedicated his life to evangelizing Muslims. Together, they expose the shocking lack of historical and manuscript evidence for the Qur’an, the prophet Muhammad, and even the city of Mecca itself. Together, Frank and Dr. Smith address questions like:

• What is the earliest manuscript evidence for the Qur’an, and why do over 2,000 variants raise serious concerns?
• Are parts of the Qur’an based on Christian hymns?
• Is Islam a Christian heresy?
• Who is John of Damascus and why did he call parts of the Qur’an despicable, terrible, and evil?
• Why did a top a Muslim scholar recently admit that we don’t have good historical evidence for anything written about what Muhammad said or did?
• Why are most Muslim scholars so hesitant to talk about the Qur'an’s apparent problems?
• What's the problem with the Black Stone of Mecca located in Saudi Arabia?
• Could Islam have originated somewhere other than Mecca?
• Is it possible that the Muhammad of Islam never existed?
• What are the four major claims Muslims make about the Qur’an and how do they compare to Jesus and the Bible?
• What is Dr. Smith's advice for Muslims and Christians when it comes to responding to this material?

This riveting conversation will not only expose the inconsistencies in Islam’s origin story, but also highlight the unmatched reliability of the Christian faith in contrast. We should encourage our Muslim friends to consider a better Man and a better Book--Jesus and His Word!

Resources mentioned during the episode:

Why the Foundations of Islam Are Now Crumbling (Part 1) - https://youtu.be/FS5fiBg5FOI Dr. Smith's website - https://www.pfandercenter.org/

Dr. Smith's YouTube channel - https://www.youtube.com/@pfanderfilms Muslim Scholar Throws the Historicity of Muhammad UNDER THE BUS! - https://youtu.be/I7QdOw8RVJ4 Two New Findings That Muhammad Didn't Exist - https://youtu.be/wy_iD6Lf6MY Investigating Islam - https://youtu.be/40DclW84HkM Dismantling Islam PowerPoint Slides - https://bit.ly/dismantlingislam

Did the prophet Muhammad actually exist? How did the Qur’an come into existence? And did Islam really begin in Mecca? If you think you know a lot about the historic origins of Islam--think again!

Frank welcomes Dr. Jay Smith to the program, a legendary defender of the faith and top Christian apologist to Muslims who spent over two decades at the legendary Speaker’s Corner in London. Dr. Smith shares personal experiences from his years evangelizing Muslims, challenging Islamic claims, and navigating the theological and historical issues at the core of Islam. During this eye-opening conversation, Frank and Dr. Smith tackle questions like:

• What was it like to evangelize at Speaker's Corner in London for 25 years and why is it a magnet for Muslims?
• How did the events of 9/11/2001 change the dynamic between the world's two largest competing religious worldviews--Christianity and Islam?
• Why is using the Qur’an helpful when sharing the Gospel with Muslims?
• What is the “three-legged stool” that supports Islam and how does it compare to Christianity?
• If Mecca is so old, why is there no evidence historically?
• What are the four genres of S.I.N. (the Standard Islamic Narrative) and why are they being thrown under the bus by some Muslim scholars?
• Why are there currently 30 official versions of the Qur’an even though it claims to be eternal and unchanged by human hands?
• Why are the Qur’an's earliest manuscripts shockingly incomplete and why was the biography of Muhammad compiled by a German scholar?

Be sure to tune in next week as Frank and Dr. Smith continue unpacking the historical and theological cracks in the foundation of Islam. And don't miss the helpful resources in the list below!

Resources mentioned during the episode:

Dr. Smith's website - https://www.pfandercenter.org/

Dr. Smith's YouTube channel - https://www.youtube.com/@pfanderfilms HOT OFF THE PRESS! Muslim Scholar Throws the Historicity of Muhammad UNDER THE BUS! - https://youtu.be/I7QdOw8RVJ4 Two New Findings That Muhammad Didn't Exist - https://youtu.be/wy_iD6Lf6MY Investigating Islam - https://youtu.be/40DclW84HkM Dismantling Islam PowerPoint Slides - https://bit.ly/dismantlingislam

Why does the Church seem so ineffective (and sometimes corrupt) when it claims to carry the truth? Does this mean the Holy Spirit is no longer at work? And why does Frank recommend so many books on his podcast: Isn't the Bible all we need? Tune in this week as he tackles these pressing listener questions and quickly recaps last week's popular series on the Book of Revelation and the end times while addressing other questions like:

• Why would God allow His Church to be so corrupt, chaotic, and unfaithful?
• Do we need to sense the Holy Spirit working in our lives in order for Christianity to be true?
• Despite its shortcomings, what positive impact has the Church made in the West and all over the world?
• What is the contrasting difference between Jesus and Muhammad that many people don't understand?
• What is Sola Scriptura? Does it mean everything we need to know is in the Bible?
• What are the three tiers of understanding the Bible?
• What are the three ways to gain wisdom?
• What is prolegomena and why is it essential to a proper understanding of Scripture?
• What's the #1 subject kids (and adults) should learn in addition to the Bible?
• Why is redemption better than innocence?

Do you have a question for Frank? Send it to hello@crossexamined.org for a chance to be featured on a future episode!

Resources mentioned during the episode:

The Revelation YouTube playlist with Dr. Chip Bennet & Dr. Warren Gage - http://bit.ly/44LbAGL

Person of Interest by J. Warner Wallace - https://a.co/d/2nuyHyi

Train Your Brain Self-Paced Course - https://bit.ly/4lMq6ni

How to Interpret Your Bible Self-Paced Course - https://bit.ly/4asZCD6

Digging Up the Bible PREMIUM Course -https://bit.ly/446eWTr

We see the battle between good and evil throughout the Bible and in the world around us. But do angels and demons influence our lives today and if they do, how do they interact with us?

Joining Frank on the program this week is Pastor Allen Jackson from World Outreach Church in Murfreesboro, TN. Under his humble yet confident leadership, the church has grown from fewer than 30 people to over 15,000 since 1989. His new book, 'Angels, Demons & You: Unseen Spiritual Influences in Our Lives', provides a biblical perspective on the reality of spiritual forces and how they impact our daily lives. Together, Frank and Allen answer questions like:

• What happened to Allen's mom that led to his whole family being born again?
• How did World Outreach Church go from a small Bible study in Allen's parents' home to a megachurch?
• Is leadership just a secular word?
• Is Islam compatible with the U.S. Constitution?
• Why does our American culture seem to dismiss the existence of angels and demons?
• What was it like studying at a secular school like Vanderbilt University?
• What roles did angels have in the Bible and what is their role today?
• Should pastors be "political"?
• Is there a way to detect the presence of angels and demons acting in our lives?

You'll also learn the importance of making disciples instead of people who just sit in pews, and why the greatest inheritance we can leave our family isn't fortune or fame--but living a life that honors God. From his humble beginnings as the son of an equine veterinarian, to a ministry that now reaches and encourages 3,000,000+ people per week around the globe, you'll see why Allen says, "The One we serve is great and we serve at His pleasure!"

Resources mentioned during the episode:

World Outreach Church - https://wochurch.org/

Allen Jack Ministries - https://allenjackson.com/

Allen’s podcast - https://cultureandchristianity.org/podcast/

Angels, Demons, and You - https://bit.ly/3TYYC1S

God Bless America Again - https://bit.ly/3IcTlRL

What do the surprising connections between Old Testament figures and Revelation reveal about the Bible’s divine authorship? Dr. Chip Bennett and Dr. Warren Gage return to continue their fascinating conversation with Frank about the true context of Revelation. Together, they’ll explore how the Old and New Testaments mirror one another in profound and intentional ways—shedding new light on Jesus, prophecy, and redemption. In this episode, they’ll answer questions like:

• Why was Jesus named after Joshua?
• How does the battle of Jericho relate to the Book of Revelation?
• What's the significance of Jesus meeting the woman at the well?
• What evidence suggests that the Book of John & the Book of Revelation were written together by John?
• Who is the beast described in the Book of Revelation?
• How is Joseph a type of Christ and what's the mind-blowing connection between Judah, Judas, and Jesus?
• Why is only focusing on Bible "heroes" a big mistake?
• How does spotting chiasms or center-points found in Scripture reveal a deeper meaning of the text?

You’ll discover how the Bible—from Genesis to Revelation—reveals God’s unified plan of redemption through types, themes, and patterns that no human could have orchestrated. This conversation will leave you with greater confidence in Scripture’s divine origin and remind you that no matter who tries to discredit it, the Bible stands as a trustworthy and true revelation from God!

Resources mentioned during the episode:

What No One Ever Told You About the Book of Revelation (Part 1) - https://bit.ly/3GwuEiP

Grace Community Church - https://www.gracesarasota.com/

The Revelation Project with Chip & Warren - http://bit.ly/44LbAGL

Chip on TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@drchipbennett

Chip on YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@drchipbennett Dr. Warren Gage on YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@drwarrengage The Book of Revelation Explained in 5 Minutes! - https://www.watermarkgospel.com/revelation

Dr. Gage’s Essay on Revelation - https://www.drwarrengage.com/revelation

What’s the true meaning of the Book of Revelation? Is it only about the end times, or have we overlooked its deeper roots in the Old Testament? For centuries, Christians have wrestled with its symbols and prophecies—could it be that we've been missing the bigger picture?

This week, Frank welcomes Dr. Chip Bennett, pastor of Grace Community Church in Sarasota, FL along with his mentor and biblical scholar, Dr. Warren Gage, to reveal the often-ignored historical and theological context behind the Book of Revelation. Tune in as Frank, Chip, and Warren explore how early Christians—and the Church Fathers—understood this mysterious book and what modern readers might be missing. Together, they’ll tackle questions like:

• What's the surprising connection between the Book of Joshua, Jesus, and the Book of Revelation?
• Is Revelation a book of fear or a book of hope?
• What’s the meaning behind the Two Witnesses and Jesus calling Himself “the door”?
• How are stories like Rahab and Isaac prophetic pictures of Christ?
• How is Scripture one of our greatest apologetic tools?
• What did the early church fathers say about the Book of Revelation?
• Why didn’t John Calvin write a commentary on Revelation, and is it a completely futuristic book?

Discover how the original recipients of Revelation would have read it, and why modern day readers need to recover a historical hermeneutic to understand it properly. This is a must-hear conversation for any and all Bible readers so don’t keep it to yourself--share it with a friend to help them connect the dots!

Resources mentioned during the episode:

Grace Community Church - https://www.gracesarasota.com/

The Revelation Project with Chip & Warren - http://bit.ly/44LbAGL

Chip on TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@drchipbennett

Dr. Warren Gage on YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@drwarrengage

Chip on YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@drchipbennett

The Book of Revelation Explained in 5 Minutes! - https://www.watermarkgospel.com/revelation

Dr. Gage’s Essay on Revelation - https://www.drwarrengage.com/revelation

Are we the generation to witness the triumphant return of Jesus? After all, aren’t we seeing all the signs being fulfilled on the news right now? In this midweek episode, Frank unpacks end times views, challenges popular assumptions about prophecy, and answers tough listener questions related to feminism and the importance of the epistles in teaching us how to live the Christian life. Tune in as he tackles questions such as:

• Is watching the news the best way to set your prophetic clock?
• What was Jesus talking about in Matthew 24 during the Olivet Discourse?
• Has the Church replaced Israel and what does it mean to “bless Israel”?
• Should Christians support everything that Israel does?
• How can we trust the New Testament if Jesus didn’t write it and why are the epistles just as important as the gospels?
• Where does modern feminism go wrong according to the Bible?
• Who are the most unhappy people in the world today according to recent statistics?

You’ll also learn why Frank thinks the best advice is to “always be ready” and stay tuned for even more mind-blowing insights about the Book of Revelation coming up on the next two episodes of, ‘I Don’t Have Enough Faith to Be an Atheist!’

Resources mentioned during the episode:

9 Discoveries That Support the Biblical Exodus in Egypt - https://youtu.be/G2LlW4fqng8 Ryan Burge on X - https://x.com/ryanburge

Is there scientific proof of the soul? Joining Frank in this eye-opening podcast episode is Dr. Michael Egnor, a practicing neurosurgeon, neuroscientist, and Professor of Neurosurgery at Stony Brook University. In his new book, 'The Immortal Mind: A Neurosurgeon’s Case for the Existence of the Soul', co-authored with Denise O’Leary, Dr. Egnor draws from over 7,000 brain surgeries and decades of experience to challenge the popular materialist view of the human person. Together, Frank and Michael will tackle questions like:

• How did a spiritual experience involving his son change Dr. Egnor’s worldview?
• What is the scientific evidence for the soul and the mind?
• Is there a difference between the mind and the brain?
• What do conjoined twins and patients with missing brain parts reveal about consciousness?
• How are verifiable Near Death Experiences evidence for the soul?
• Why do most neuroscientists still cling to materialism despite contrary evidence?

From fascinating case studies to philosophical insights from Aquinas and Aristotle, this episode will challenge the materialist narrative that you are just your brain. If you know someone who’s scientifically minded but open to deeper questions about human nature, this book is a must read! Be sure to grab your copy today and check out more of Dr. Egnor’s work at the Discovery Institute website listed below.

Resources mentioned during the episode:

Mike's book: The Immortal Mind - https://www.discovery.org/b/the-immortal-mind/

Mike's presentation: The Scientific Evidence of the Human Soul - https://youtu.be/41bIJ7hYbLs

Discovery Institute: Mind Matter News - https://www.discovery.org/p/mmnews/

Mike's articles at the Discovery Institute - https://www.discovery.org/t/michael-egnor/

Resurrection expert Dr. Gary Habermas returns to discuss Volume 3 of his magnum opus, 'On the Resurrection: Scholarly Perspectives', which includes 500+ scholarly treatments related to the resurrection. From far-left critics to conservative theologians, this collective volume provides a strong overview of everything that has ever been written about the resurrection and includes over 8,000 footnotes!

During their conversation, Frank and Gary answer questions like:

• Why do critical scholars deny miracles but still affirm that Jesus was a miracle worker?
• Why does Gary think many atheists don't want to say "I do" to Jesus?
• Is biblical inerrancy a requirement for the Gospel and what about apparent Bible contradictions?
• What are the 3 things you need in order for Christianity to be true?
• How do you respond to those who say the deity of God evolved over time?
• What do creeds teach us about high Christology and how did it get started?
• What’s the best explanation for the rapid growth of early Christianity?

If you’re looking for the most comprehensive survey of scholarship for and against the resurrection, this is it! Whether you're a skeptic, seeker, or committed believer, this discussion offers rich insight and a reason to take the resurrection seriously. As Gary would say, "It's a bold argument to say that Jesus rose from the dead, but try to get out of it!"

Resources mentioned during the episode:

PODCAST: Did Jesus REALLY Rise From the Dead? - https://bit.ly/3VnrtiD

On the Resurrection: Evidences (Vol.1) - https://www.amazon.com/dp/1087778603

On the Resurrection: Refutations (Vol.2) - https://a.co/d/48jozEv

On the Resurrection: Scholarly Perspectives (Vol.3) - https://www.amazon.com/dp/1087778646

Gary's website - https://www.garyhabermas.com/

If God exists and Jesus rose from the dead, then Christianity is true. Case closed! However, there are still those who offer alternative explanations for the empty tomb despite the evidence for the resurrection. What are these theories and do they withstand critical analysis?

This week, Frank sits down with Dr. Gary Habermas, the world’s leading resurrection scholar to discuss, 'On the Resurrection: Refutations', the second volume of his magnum opus--a massive 4-volume project nearly 40 years in the making. From second-century texts that seem to challenge the resurrection to modern skeptical scholars like Bart Ehrman, Gary will uncover why naturalistic explanations for the empty tomb simply don’t hold up. Tune in as Frank and Gary answer questions like:

• Who was David Hume and why do so many modern atheists still lean on his centuries-old arguments?
• What was Hume’s actual argument against miracles, and how did C.S. Lewis respond?
• Are there any good arguments for naturalism or materialism?
• Why did former skeptic Antony Flew become a theist before he died?
• What are the top 5 reasons naturalistic explanations for the resurrection fail?
• What are the 4 best arguments in favor of an afterlife?

If you’re looking for the most well-researched scholarship to refute common resurrection objections, you won’t find a better resource than this! Be sure to pick up your own copies of Gary's amazing work and stay tuned for the next podcast where he’ll return to discuss even more insights from his life’s work on the resurrection!

Resources mentioned during the episode:

PODCAST: Did Jesus REALLY Rise From the Dead? - https://bit.ly/3VnrtiD

On the Resurrection: Evidences (Vol.1) - https://www.amazon.com/dp/1087778603

On the Resurrection: Refutations (Vol.2) - https://a.co/d/48jozEv

On the Resurrection: Scholarly Perspectives (Vol.3) - https://www.amazon.com/dp/1087778646

Gary's website - https://www.garyhabermas.com/

There is a God by Antony Flew - https://a.co/d/eOhWkST

Signature in the Cell by Stephen C. Meyer - https://a.co/d/5XLmVhc

What's the current situation on the ground in Israel and how are the Israeli people responding to the war against Iran? Jeff Morgan, host of the 'SO BE IT!' Jews for Jesus outreach ministry program and YouTube channel, joins Frank from his home near Tel Aviv to discuss his work as a street apologist in Israel and how citizens are dealing with the current crisis. During their conversation, Frank and Jeff will address questions like:

• What is life like in Israel right now?
• Do citizens and politicians in Israel support the war against Iran?
• How did Jeff become a Christian after being raised in a secular Jewish home and practicing New Age spirituality and meditation for 20 years?
• What's the difference between Rabbinic Judaism and Messianic Judaism and how has diligently studying Jewish history helped Jeff share and spread the Gospel in Israel?
• What is the current state of Judaism in Israel and are more people converting to Christianity?
• Why is Christianity such a loaded word to Jewish people?
• Does the New Testament make the Old Testament obsolete?

Tune in to learn specific ways you can support the humanitarian efforts and ministry work ofJews for Jesus and how to spark meaningful conversations with Orthodox and traditional Jews. Also, let's pray for the leaders of Israel and Iran to seek peace in the name of the only person who can save and redeem humanity--Jesus the Messiah.

Resources mentioned during the episode:

Jews for Jesus - https://jewsforjesus.org/

'So Be It' YouTube channel - https://www.youtube.com/@SOBEIT32AD

Fellowship of Israel Related Ministries -https://firmisrael.org/

What if American culture isn’t collapsing because of crusading secularists? What if it’s failing because many leading Christians identify more with secular elites than with their fellow believers? Frank sits down with Dr. John G. West—author of 'Stockholm Syndrome Christianity', and Vice President of the Discovery Institute—to uncover why some of the most influential Christian voices seem to be echoing the values of secular culture rather than confronting them. Frank and John tackle some uncomfortable but necessary questions like:

• How did Stockholm Syndrome get its name and what does it reveal about human nature?
• Why are some believers supporting secular policies that contradict biblical truth?
• What’s really at stake when Christians abandon truth in the name of “love”?
• How can parents discern whether a “Christian college” is truly grounded in Christ—and what 10 critical questions should they ask?
• How have high-profile figures like Francis Collins, Russell Moore, and David French used their influence to advocate for unbiblical policies while demonizing some Christians?
• Are conservatives too harsh or just unwilling to capitulate? And what can faithful followers of Jesus do to push back against 'Stockholm Syndrome Christianity'?

Going beyond critique, the book identifies root causes and—most crucially—offers practical tips and strategies you can use to help your family, church, and community stand for truth. Read this book to become part of the solution and discern when and where to draw the line between faith and culture.

Resources mentioned during the episode:

John's website: https://johngwest.com/

John's Book: https://stockholmsyndromechristianity.com/

John's film work: https://johngwest.com/film/

What happens when a Christian psychiatrist wants to marry a “spiritual” Richard Dawkins atheist—and then a medical crisis involving multiple organ failures and a medically induced coma changes everything? 

Join Frank as he sits down with Garrett & Aja Halweg, a married couple that formed a powerful union against all odds! Tune in as they share their story of Garrett's brush with death, Aja's testimony of becoming a Christian, and how both of these events ultimately led them to become powerful ambassadors for Christ (and appear on Animal Planet)! Tune in as they unpack their story and answer questions like:

• How did Garrett and Aja initially form a strong connection despite their opposing worldviews?
• Why did doctors misdiagnose Garrett and how did God providentially reveal the true cause of his life-threatening illness to Aja?
• What series of events led to Aja's conversion and baptism?
• Why did Aja experience a post-conversion crisis of faith and what role did apologetics play in strengthening her new belief in Christianity?
• Why does Garrett believe that God allowed him to get sick?
• How did Aja maintain peace throughout Garrett's time in the hospital?
• What troubling scenes did Garrett see during his near death experience, and how did Biola & Talbot professors help him to process this traumatic encounter with the unseen realm?

Sometimes the truth is stranger than fiction, and you definitely don't want to miss this amazing story of God's provision and providence!

Resources mentioned during the episode:

Garrett's website - https://www.braindochawaii.com/

Garrett & Aja on 'Monsters Inside Me' - https://youtu.be/oD8Y_yODjjg

Is the United States of America a product of divine intervention or mere coincidence? Frank welcomes Patterns of Evidence filmmaker, Tim Mahoney, on the program to discuss his exciting new docu-drama, 'The American Miracle', a film that dives into some of the most astonishing and unexplainable events in America’s birth and rise to prosperity and power.

During their conversation, Frank and Tim will answer questions like:

• What are some of the hard-to-believe events that allowed the Americans to win the Revolutionary war?
• What’s the difference between divine providence and a miracle?
• Did Benjamin Franklin and the rest of the Founding Fathers believe in deism?
• How did George Washington become such a great leader?
• Did the founders really believe that slaves were worth 3/5 of a person?
• How does the film counter false narratives about American history?
• What's so special about the Bill of Rights?
• What is the real meaning of American Exceptionalism?
• How has America been a light to the world in a way that no other nation has ever been able to accomplish?

This new film is only in theaters JUNE 9-11 so grab your tickets TODAY and invite your friends and church small group! It just might give you the American history lesson you never got in school.

WATCH THE TRAILER & GET YOUR TICKETS HERE!

https://americanmiraclemovie.com/

GET THE BOOK THAT INSPIRED THE MOVIE!

https://bit.ly/3SZ5Jat

Why are white farmers being murdered in South Africa, and why does the media ignore or deny it? Frank sits down with Simon Brace, National Director of Ratio Christi South Africa, to expose how Marxist ideology, CRT, and postmodern thinking have taken root in universities and are reshaping the soul of the nation. Together, Frank and Simon tackle pressing questions like:

• What happened when Simon's uncle (a farmer) was murdered in 2007?
• What are the political parties in South Africa and how did the country become so vulnerable to Marxism and socialism?
• What's happening at universities in South Africa and how does that compare to what's happening here in the United States?
• What role is fatherlessness playing in the breakdown of society around the world?
• Why is teaching logic and critical thinking skills so important in today's postmodern culture?
• What is the biggest lie being told in South Africa?
• What did Simon recently discover USAID was supporting in South Africa?
• How do policies in the United States affect other countries and why must we continue to stand up for the existence of moral and objective truth in the public square?

As South Africa faces political unrest, rising crime, and deep cultural confusion, people around the world need to understand what’s driving the chaos. If you want to support Simon on his mission, please keep South Africa in your prayers and visit the link in the resources listed below.

Resources mentioned during the episode:

Support & Contact Simon: https://ratiochristi.co.za/about/our-team/

Southern Evangelical Seminary & Bible College - https://ses.edu/frank

JD Vance: The Universities Are the Enemy - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0FR65Cifnhw

Should Christians Practice Deliverance Ministries? - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GZlNiMFncu4

Articles that confirm the entrenchment of Social Justice Theory in South African universities: Decolonisation Necessarily Requires Degendering - https://bit.ly/4dKtuwp

Queer Activism in South African Education - https://bit.ly/43DQW9N

Correcting Critical Theory Ideas - https://bit.ly/3ZbAkoK

Toxic religious environments are more widespread, more covert, and more dangerous than many people realize. But what can Christians do to safeguard themselves and loved ones from being victimized by their own churches and potential cults?

To confront this growing crisis, Frank welcomes Anna Kitko, Chapter Director of Ratio Christi at the University of Tennessee–Knoxville, beEmboldened mentor, and an expert in coercive control and spiritual trauma. With deep insight into how abuse happens and how healing begins, Anna helps uncover the hidden patterns behind spiritual manipulation—and what to do about it. Tune in as she and Frank answer questions like:

• What are the warning signs of a cult or spiritually abusive church?
• What is the New Apostolic Reformation and why are these churches especially concerning?
• What are the different types of cults and what's the largest cult group in the U.S. today?
• What manipulation tactics do spiritual abusers use?
• Why are even sincere Christians vulnerable to deception?
• What is pseudodoxy—and how does it disguise itself as truth?
• How can spiritual abuse harm your body physically, and not just your soul?
• How do you escape spiritual abuse and how can we support others who need help?

Don’t miss this eye-opening conversation that could protect you or someone you love, and if help is needed, please contact Anna using the resources listed below.

Full-Circle Counseling & Wellness of East TN - https://www.fullcirclecounselingtn.com/

beEmboldened Ministries (virtual counseling) - https://www.beemboldened.com/

Ratio Christi at the Univ. of TN-Knoxville - https://bit.ly/3SZv7wx

Understanding Spiritual Abuse: What It Is and How to Respond - https://a.co/d/aRfouxK

Bully Pulpit by Michael Krueger - https://a.co/d/85I9C7P

Sons of Patriarchy - https://www.sonsofpatriarchy.com/

Jesus said to love your enemies, turn the other cheek, and to pray for those who persecute you. But does that mean we can never use force under any circumstances? In this post Memorial Day episode, Frank explores what the Bible says about protecting ourselves and others from evil. With insights from Scripture and history, Frank examines real-world examples of Just War and explains why, in a fallen world, force is sometimes not only permissible, but necessary. Tune in as he answers questions like:

• Would Jesus ever condone violence? If so, what did He mean when He said to "turn the other cheek"?
• Why is complete pacifism unbiblical and a dereliction of duty?
• What is the proper use of the sword according to the Bible?
• Where do our rights come from and what are the 3 institutions that God created?
• What are the 6 attributes of a Just War according to Augustine?
• What are the 7 reasons when using force may be necessary?
• How does this all relate to events happening in Gaza and Israel right now?
• What could President Lincoln possibly say to comfort a mother who lost five sons in the Civil War?

Freedom is never free. Don’t miss this Gospel-centered reflection on self-defense and warfare as we honor those who sacrificed their lives in service to our country.

Resources mentioned during the episode:

Jesus and the Case for War - https://bit.ly/4mGuG8b

Charlie Kirk vs. Cambridge Student - https://youtu.be/RXuePZj5eU0

Is there credible evidence for the supernatural? What should we make of verifiable near-death experiences (NDEs), angelic encounters, deathbed visions, and miraculous healings? Do these reports point to a reality beyond the material world?

This week, Frank invites the one and only Lee Strobel on the program to discuss the compelling case for the unseen realm, as detailed in his fascinating new book, 'Seeing the Supernatural: Investigating Angels, Demons, Mystical Dreams, Near-Death Encounters, and Other Mysteries of the Unseen World.' Drawing from well-documented accounts and interviews with leading experts, Lee and Frank tackle questions like:

• What’s the most convincing evidence for the existence of the soul?
• What are deathbed visions, and are they found in Scripture?
• Are there any reports of negative or frightening near-death experiences?
• Why doesn’t God always grant miraculous healing when we pray?
• What happened when Lee encountered an angel when he was 12-years old?
• Are miracles still happening today?

From personal stories to peer-reviewed studies, this episode uncovers the mysteries that science alone can’t explain. Even the most skeptical listeners will be challenged to reconsider the limits of naturalism. You won't be able to peel yourself away from this fascinating conversation!

Resources mentioned during the episode:

Lee's website: https://leestrobel.com/

Seeing the Supernatural by Lee Strobel - https://a.co/d/hH9l78N

How do you respond when someone says your "Christian Nationalism" goes against everything Jesus taught in the Bible? And why are so many Christians preoccupied with LGBTQ+ issues--don't they have their own sinful behaviors to worry about? In this midweek episode, Frank responds to a listener email from Australia related to these and other hot-button issues by answering questions like:

• How does "Christian Nationalism" compare to secular internationalism?
• Why should the government care about marriage?
• Did Jesus believe in equity?
• Do you call out your own sin or just the sins of others?
• What are the 3 BIG temptations John 1 warns us about?
• According to Paul, what kind of person isn't welcome at church?
• Is God just a cosmic killjoy?
• What's the difference between torture and torment and which one is found in Hell?
• What’s the deal with the story of Jephthah and his daughter in the Book of Judges?

If you have a question you'd like Frank to answer on a future episode, be sure to send it to hello@crossexamined.org and don't forget to download the CrossExamined app where you can access every single episode of 'I Don't Have Enough Faith to Be an Atheist' organized by date, subject content, or guest(s)!

Resources mentioned during the episode:

Jesus vs. the Culture self-paced online course - https://bit.ly/3Zp02G8

Podcast: When Is Love Evil? - https://bit.ly/4mnA5Rq

The BIBLE and SLAVERY Explained! - https://youtu.be/qWvwkHKWAfE

The Big Book of Bible Difficulties - https://bit.ly/4dp32s5

Is God a Moral Monster? by Paul Copan - https://bit.ly/4jdGgV8

Is God a Vindictive Bully? by Paul Copan - https://bit.ly/3HjdvsM

How much do we really know about the “most excellent Theophilus,” and why did Luke dedicate both his Gospel and the Book of Acts to him? This week, Frank welcomes Shane Rosenthal—host of The Humble Skeptic podcast and author of, 'Luke’s Key Witness', to explore a groundbreaking new theory behind who he believes to be one of the main eyewitnesses of Jesus' resurrection that could revolutionize your understanding of Luke’s Gospel. Join Frank and Shane as they explore questions like:

• Who could be the surprising key eyewitness behind Luke’s remarkably detailed accounts (including the Resurrection of Jesus) and what evidence supports this claim?
• Why were ancient Christians hesitant to rely on the testimony of women?
• What is a chiastic structure, and how does it give us a deeper understanding of Scripture?
• Why are scholars re-dating the Gospel of John?
• What paradigm shift is underway in New Testament scholarship?
• Is faith blind, and why does Shane call his podcast, 'The Humble Skeptic'?

You don't want to miss this fascinating episode as Shane reveals surprising connections and overlooked clues that shed new light on the Gospel narrative. And be sure to check out a free preview of Shane's book, 'Luke's Key Witness' by visiting his website, HumbleSkeptic.com!

Resources mentioned during the episode:

Shane's website: https://www.humbleskeptic.com/

Shane's book: Luke's Key Witness - https://bit.ly/4dj1fEG

Luke: A Commentary by Peter. G. Bolt - https://bit.ly/44Ik5mu

What ONE insight will either make or break your life as a Christian, or even as a non-Christian? If followed, it will help your marriage, parenting, business, job, friendships, politics, and most importantly, your eternity and your relationship with Jesus.

Spurred by recent political and cultural events surrounding President Trump's first 100 days in office and comments made by Vice President J.D. Vance during a recent interview about protecting the interest of American citizens, Frank reminds listeners of the doctrine of "Ordered Loves". Originally articulated by Augustine over 1,600 years ago, this classic school of thought seems to be totally lost among our culture today. Tune in as Frank answers questions like:

• What is the Doctrine of "Ordered Loves", why is it so important, and how does it affect every single area of your life?
• What are the negative consequences when we get the order wrong?
• What did Jesus have to say about getting our priorities in the right order?
• What did Dr. Erwin Lutzer mean when he said "love can be evil"?
• Why did Vice President J. D. Vance recently cause a stir during an interview and what did Pope Leo XIV have to say about it?
• Why do so many people (including some who claim to be Christians) reject the idea of hierarchies and an ordered world?
• What's the difference between true and false compassion?
• Is character in politics only about personality?
• What are 15 things that the Trump Administration has done policy-wise during the first 100+ days in office that all Christians should support?
• What is the primary purpose of government?
• Is idolizing politics really a problem among conservative Christians?

In his article, 'Why Progressive Christians Reject the Doctrine of "Ordered Loves"', Michael Clary writes, "Whether we like it or not, God’s world is ordered and hierarchical. We can embrace it and enjoy the blessings of living according to God’s design, or we can reject it and live a life of bitterness, like so many progressives." The choice is yours!

Resources mentioned during the episode:

Toxic Empathy by Allie Beth Stuckey - https://www.toxicempathy.com/

Why Progressive Christians Reject the Doctrine of "Ordered Loves" - https://bit.ly/3GQJeBz

When Jesus Insulted People: A Comprehensive List - https://bit.ly/41eLolc

Resurge Podcast: Four Megachurch Pastors Debrief White House Visit - https://youtu.be/BXX4L1c4S3g How The After Party Curriculum Is Sowing Political Confusion in the Church - https://bit.ly/3BevfTt

Are you missing 'The Rush Limbaugh Show'? You're not alone! Rush didn’t just comment on the news--he inspired millions, entertained countless listeners, and was a refuge for conservatives during some of the most turbulent times in recent history. But what made Rush such a towering figure in conservative media? Who better to answer that question than someone who knew him best—his brother!

This week, New York Times best-selling author David Limbaugh joins Frank to celebrate Rush’s incredible legacy, reflect on his faith journey up until his passing in 2021, and discuss how David’s own dive into apologetics and the Bible led him to Christ. Together, they’ll tackle questions like:

• Why did some people disagree with Rush--and why might that actually be a compliment?
• What made Rush a masterful broadcaster and sharp political commentator?
• What role did faith play in the Limbaugh household growing up?
• Was Rush a Christian when he passed away?
• What surprising trait did Rush Limbaugh and Christopher Hitchens share?
• How can we see Jesus throughout the Old Testament?
• What ultimately convinced David Limbaugh to embrace Christianity?
• How do the Old and New Testaments fit together as one story?

Join Frank and David for an engaging conversation filled with humor, memories, and powerful insights into Rush’s life, career, and faith. Though Rush’s voice is no longer on the airwaves, his influence and wit live on. And don’t forget to pick up David’s book, 'Finding Jesus in the Old Testament', to dig deeper into how the entire Bible ultimately points to Christ!

Resources mentioned during the episode:

Finding Jesus in the Old Testament by David Limbaugh: https://a.co/d/9KDUa7Q

Why do so many modern liberals misunderstand the true role of the Pope—treating him more like a soft-spoken "social worker with a Mr. Rogers personality" than a defender of sound doctrine? This week, Frank sits down with the one and only Dr. Erwin Lutzer to talk about the sobering state of the world, the growing animosity towards objective truth, and why Christians should avoid the temptation to compromise as the world drifts further into confusion, political unrest, and chaos (mixed in with a dad joke or two!). During their conversation, Frank and Erwin will answer questions like:

• What's the first duty of a pope and what should the cardinals focus on when choosing a successor for the late Pope Francis?
• How is Marxist ideology creeping into the church through ideas like open borders and emotional manipulation?
• What signs of the end times are we seeing today?
• How do atheists unknowingly demonstrate that God exists?
• Why is it self-defeating to believe in your own personal truth?
• What’s the difference between objective truth and “truthiness”?
• How are Christians being tempted to sell the truth for social acceptance?

This is a sobering—but necessary—wake-up call with a few laughs along the way!

Resources mentioned during the episode:

WEBSITE: https://moodymedia.org/

The Eclipse of God by Erwin Lutzer - https://bit.ly/4iOdkmk

The Pope's First Duty by Edward Feser - https://bit.ly/3YzNlYR

Is the rigorous pursuit of scientific knowledge compatible with a sincere faith in God? The brilliant, humble, and always well-spoken, Dr. John Lennox, President of The Oxford Centre for Christian Apologetics, joins Frank for a deep and wide-ranging conversation about the relationship between faith and science. From science and philosophy to personal testimony and practical wisdom, this conversation explores just a handful of the many books Dr. Lennox has written over the years, and why he believes Christianity is worth standing up for—no matter the cost. During their discussion, they tackle questions like:

• How did an Oxford mathematician come to believe that Christianity is true?
• Who told John that he needed to give up on God if he wanted a career in science and what was his response?
• What was it like listening to C.S. Lewis give his last lectures?
• What's the “roast chicken” analogy?
• Why can’t physics and chemistry explain the deepest questions of life?
• What about the God of the Gaps argument?
• Do the laws of nature prove that miracles are impossible?
• What does John think is the best evidence for the resurrection?
• After living out 70+ years of faith and reason is there anything he would do differently?

Listeners will enjoy Dr. Lennox’s engaging stories, clever analogies, and practical ways to communicate the Gospel of grace clearly in a skeptical age. Don’t miss this gem of an episode, and be sure to check out some of John's fantastic books listed in the resources section below!

Resources mentioned during the episode:

John's website: https://www.johnlennox.org/

The Oxford Centre for Christian Apologetics: https://www.theocca.org/

Can Science Explain Everything? - https://a.co/d/gsj0eNF

2084 and the AI Revolution - https://a.co/d/fJSJf64

Cosmic Chemistry: Do God & Science Mix? - https://a.co/d/bMLux5q

Richard Dawkins vs. John Lennox: The God Delusion Debate - https://youtu.be/zF5bPI92-5o

Richard Dawkins vs. John Lennox: Has Science Buried God? -  https://youtu.be/OVEuQg_Mglw

Was the sacrifice of Jesus unjust? Is common ancestry true? And what will happen when Jesus returns? This week, Frank kicks off the episode by tackling a BIG question about the implications of Jesus’ death and resurrection, and it only gets more interesting from there! As he responds to questions sent in by listeners he'll also answer questions like:

• What is preterism and why doesn't the Bible tell us when Jesus is returning?
• Does regeneration come before faith?
• How can tough marriages glorify God and is incompatibility a good reason to get divorced?
• Why doesn't God ensure that all people will become Christians?
• What is irreducible complexity and is it inconsistent with the atheistic worldview?
• How are digital distractions drawing us away from God?

Do you have a question for Frank? Send it to hello@crossexamined.org!

Resources mentioned during the episode:

Stealing From God - https://bit.ly/41hLt91

Is the Similarity in Human/Chimp DNA Evidence in for Evolution? - https://bit.ly/3GLtIqo

What Will Happen When Jesus Returns? - https://bit.ly/4iF21wW

12 Ways Your Phone is Changing You - https://www.amazon.com/dp/1433552434

What is a worldview, and how does it shape everything you believe and do? This week, Dr. Brady Blevins, Senior Apologist at Watchman Fellowship, joins Frank to talk about his brand new course, 'Conversations with the Faiths: Worldviews', which explores the four major groups of worldviews and equips Christians to evangelize those caught in false ideologies and protect Christian churches against modern heresy. In this episode, Frank and Brady will tackle questions like:

• What are the four major worldviews and why is understanding their differences so important?
• What's the best approach when someone in your life adopts a worldview that isn't true?
• Which worldview is taking the lead in our culture today?
• How do cults and movements like Word of Faith, NAR (the New Apostolic Reformation), and Progressive Christianity subtly twist Scripture and infiltrate the Church?
• What are the main characteristics of a cult and how do the four functions of math help us spot cults and other false worldviews?
• What is a great parenting tool that can help kids become more discerning without sounding preachy?

Frank and Brady also examine how some of today’s most popular teachings deviate from biblical Christianity and you'll hear real-world examples of false teachers and movements that are shaping minds inside and outside the Church. If you want to be equipped to defend truth and help others find it, be sure to check out Brady's new course: 'Conversations with the Faiths: Worldviews'!

Resources mentioned during the episode:

Brady's website: https://www.watchman.org/

Brady's course: https://bit.ly/42It8kW

Brave Books: https://bravebooks.us/

Last week, Frank introduced three compelling reasons to believe in the resurrection, including embarrassing details and eyewitness testimony. In this midweek episode, he jumps back into more archaeological discoveries that include names of people involved in the death and crucifixion of Jesus and how the excruciating deaths of the eyewitnesses offer powerful evidence that they weren’t lying as well. He also answers questions like:

• Did any of the apostles recant their eyewitness testimony and is it possible that they were hallucinating?
• Were the apostles motivated to invent the resurrection story and should their testimony be dismissed because they were Christians?
• Is martyrdom also evidence that Islam is true?
• What does Spiderman have to do with the reliability of the New Testament?
• Is the New Testament just a work of historical fiction?
• Can other world religions be defended with apologetics?
• Why are skeptics and non-Christians often motivated to reject Christianity?

Later in the episode, Frank draws from major cultural events in modern U.S. history—like 9/11, the OJ Simpson trial, and the Rodney King incident—to reveal how human bias can shape the way we interpret evidence and how “impact events” can help us in evaluating the historicity of the New Testament. If you missed Part 1 of this special Resurrection Weekend mini-series be sure to check it out in the resources section listed below!

Resources mentioned during the episode:

PART 1 - https://youtu.be/EdvS97epOK4

I Don't Have Enough Faith to Be an Atheist - https://bit.ly/4j64NfE

On the Resurrection Volume 2: Refutations by Gary Habermas - https://www.amazon.com/dp/108777862X

Did the Apostles REALLY Die as Martyrs? w/Sean McDowell - https://youtu.be/aTXvmd6_iZ0

Did Jesus of Nazareth really rise from the dead? And if that's the case, how should that impact our view of history and everything we believe about God and reality? With the colloquial Easter holiday coming just around the corner, let's dive into the BEST evidence for the resurrection as Frank answers questions like:

• What is the greatest miracle in the Bible? (SPOILER ALERT: it's NOT the Resurrection)
• What are the four types of miracles that Jesus performed and what do they teach us about His divinity?
• Why could we call them the "duh"-ciples of Jesus?
• How do we know that Islam isn't true? And what about Judaism?
• What makes the conversion of James (the brother of Jesus) so compelling?
• Why does Dennis Prager think that the Old Testament is telling the truth and what implications does this have on the historicity of the New Testament?
• Why do some people refuse to believe in the possibility of a resurrection despite the evidence?
• What 7 figures associated with the trial and crucifixion of Christ have been discovered via archaeology?

Listeners will discover why human life has eternal value, why Christianity stands alone among other worldviews, and how we can know the Bible is historically reliable. Plus, Frank shares a special invitation to join the CE team!

Resources mentioned during the episode:

Come join our mission! https://careers.crossexamined.org/

Testimonial from Wright State Univ. - https://bit.ly/42NB2uh

I Don't Have Enough Faith to Be an Atheist - https://bit.ly/4j64NfE

Live Free with Josh Howerton - https://bit.ly/42Bl9pB

Resurge with Josh Howerton & Josh McPherson - https://bit.ly/4iijgnH

Conversation with the Faiths: Worldviews - https://bit.ly/42It8kW

What’s the real history behind the Inquisitions, what do they reveal about the Christian faith, and could history be repeating itself? A few weeks ago, we unpacked the truth about the history of the Crusades. This week, the great Bill Federer returns to shed light on the rise of the first inquisitions, their lasting impact on both the Church and American history, and how these events connect to the biblical narrative. Join Frank and Bill as they tackle questions like:

• What are some of the key events surrounding the Spanish, Islamic, and Portuguese Inquisitions?
• What does Islam teach about those who leave the faith?
• What is the "Divine Right of Kings" and why is it so dangerous?
• Why was translating the Bible into English considered a serious crime?
• How did Christian disengagement from politics open the door to more persecution?
• Is religion really the root cause of most wars—and which worldview has the most violent history?
• Who did Thomas Jefferson give credit to as the inspiration for his views on freedom of religion?
• What is Jesus' new way forward now that the Old Covenant law is obsolete?
• Who in our culture wants to do an inquisition against Christians?

In this thought-provoking episode, Frank and Bill explore how political powers throughout history have exploited religion to gain control—often with tragic consequences. From assassinations to coerced conversions, you’ll get a gripping look at the real story behind the inquisitions—while also debunking myths and setting the record straight by looking at the facts! Want to dig deeper? Visit AmericanMinute.com to check out some of Bill's books mentioned in the resource list below!

Resources mentioned during the episode:

Bill's website: https://americanminute.com/

What REALLY Happened During the Crusades? - https://bit.ly/3RiWMYx

Backfired - https://bit.ly/4jvVBRo

Three Secular Reasons Why America Should Be Under God - https://bit.ly/3RUluyw

Endangered Speeches - https://bit.ly/42w49kn

Bullies and Saints - https://bit.ly/42xTupo

How does someone go from co-founding one of the world’s most visited websites as an atheist to becoming a Bible-believing Christian? And what kind of evidence can shake a skeptical philosopher out of his naturalistic worldview? This week, Frank sits down with Dr. Larry Sanger, co-founder of Wikipedia, to explore the surprising path that led him back to faith in Christ. Tune in as they answer questions like:

• When and why did Larry stop believing in Christianity?
• How did Wikipedia get started and what does it teach us about human nature?
• What was it about the Bible that inspired Larry to read through it with a critical lens and what passages intrigued him the most?
• How did reading the Bible in 90-days change his perspective?
• What do skeptics and apologists often overlook in the evidence for God?
• Why is changing someone's worldview so difficult and what's the best approach to do so?

From confronting evil in the world to exploring the design behind creation, Larry’s journey is both intellectual and deeply personal. If you're curious about faith, philosophy, or how one of the internet’s pioneers found truth in Scripture, be sure to read Larry's testimony on his website using the link below!

Resources mentioned during the episode:

Larry's Website - https://larrysanger.org/

Larry's Testimony - https://larrysanger.org/2025/02/how-a-skeptical-philosopher-becomes-a-christian

Why do Christians think Jesus is the ONLY way to Heaven? In this midweek podcast episode, Frank unpacks what truly sets Christianity apart from other religions and also tackles tough questions from listeners related to same-sex relationships, woke churches, and baptism. Tune in as he addresses questions like:

• Does simply saying you believe Jesus is our LORD and Saviour enough to save you?
• Why was Jesus' sacrifice necessary?
• Are all non-Christians going to Hell, even if they’re "good" people?
• Why can’t a loving God allow everyone into Heaven, regardless of their beliefs?
• Do you need Christianity to be a good person?
• What’s wrong with the popular 'He Gets Us' campaign?
• How are people tormented in Hell?
• What's the difference between justice and grace?
• Why is the nature of truth inherently exclusive?

All this and more will be discussed in this special Q&A edition of 'I Don’t Have Enough Faith to Be An Atheist'!

BOOK: Stealing From God - https://bit.ly/41hLt91

BOOK: Street Smarts - https://www.amazon.com/dp/0310139139

BOOK: Tactics - https://bit.ly/3DgZ1bm

PODCAST: What Could Be Wrong About Love? - https://youtu.be/MettT5ToozM

Take a trip to Jordan, Israel, & Egypt with Frank! - https://bit.ly/4iUCUHi

How do you spend 20 years talking to some of the world’s most well-known atheists and still remain a committed Christian? Is it possible that belief in God actually makes sense?

Popular radio host and podcaster Justin Brierley has been creating and facilitating constructive conversations about faith for more than two decades, and has had a ringside seat as believers and nonbelievers have debated Christianity. This week on the podcast, Justin joins Frank to discuss his upcoming book, 'Why I'm Still a Christian: After Two Decades of Conversations with Skeptics and Atheists–The Reason I Believe' and shares how he kept his faith intact while engaging with skeptics from around the world. Together, he and Frank answer big questions like:

• What led Justin to write this book, and what ultimately convinces him that Christianity is true?
• Is Christianity intellectually defensible in a secular age?
• What are the strongest arguments for (and against) the existence of God?
• Why are some leading atheists reconsidering their skepticism?
• Has science truly made belief in God obsolete?
• How can Christians engage skeptics without losing their own faith?
• What advice does Justin have for people who may be "deconstructing" their faith?

Don’t miss this eye-opening discussion, and be sure to pre-order your copy of 'Why I'm Still a Christian' to support Justin’s important work in Christian apologetics!

Resources mentioned during the episode:

How a Dice Can Say That God Exists - https://youtu.be/yy6kaDaeDT8

Pre-Order Justin's new book - https://www.amazon.com/dp/1496466934

Justin's Podcast - https://justinbrierley.com/surprisingrebirth

Are there contradictions between the gospel accounts? If so, how can we trust the central tenet of Christianity--the Resurrection of Jesus? J. Warner Wallace returns to share how he used his skill set as a detective to investigate the claims of the New Testament gospels and compares his findings to those of atheist/agnostic New Testament scholar, Bart Ehrman.

Together, Frank and Jim answer questions like:

• What's necessary to prove an event occurred in the past?
• Why weren't first-century historians bothered by textual differences found in the Gospels?
• Why is it better to have four different gospel accounts vs. one harmonization?
• Why would God allow these textual differences?
• What surprised Jim the most the first time he read the Gospels as an atheist?
• Why do detectives separate eyewitnesses?
• When doing detective work, why does Jim prefer it when the stories are "messy"?
• Does the evidence always determine the verdict? In other words, why do Jim and Bart come to different conclusions when it comes to the Resurrection of Jesus?
• Why is bias against the supernatural a double-standard for materialist atheists?
• What's the best way to test an eyewitness?
• If the Gospels are contradictory and can’t be trusted, why do critics like Erhman conclude that much of the New Testament is true and that the disciples really believed they saw the resurrected Jesus?
• How are atheists disagreeing with themselves and agreeing with Christians when it comes to alternative explanations for the resurrection?

And so much more! If you normally listen to podcasts on 2x speed you may need to slow it down for this one and take some notes!

Resources mentioned during the episode:

Jim's website - https://coldcasechristianity.com/

Cold Case Christianity - https://a.co/d/dABS4uA

Case Files: Murder & Meaning - https://casefilesgraphicnovel.com/

Why are so many people fascinated with evil stories of murder, and true crime? And more importantly, can we use that fascination to point them to Jesus? Christianity is the only worldview that answers the problem of evil adequately, and now there’s a new graphic novel that tackles this big question in a way that’s both artistic and compelling!

This week, Frank sits down with cold-case detective and bestselling author, J. Warner Wallace, along with his son and co-author, Jimmy Wallace, to discuss their new book, 'Case Files: Murder and Meaning’. As a father-son duo with deep roots in law enforcement, they’re using their real-life experiences to craft a crime story that sneaks apologetics into an action-packed graphic novel. Tune in as they address questions like:

• Why do so many police officers become cynical, and what does that reveal about human nature?
• How did their experience in law enforcement help Jim and Jimmy to write this story?
• What makes 'Case Files' different from other apologetics books?
• How can storytelling help people wrestle with questions about morality and justice?
• What are some of the biggest misconceptions that the public has about police and detective work?
• How did the George Floyd and BLM riots radically shift the police world?
• What are some of the common internal and psychological struggles of police officers?
• How did Jim overcome his season of identity crisis once he retired?

Be sure to pre-order your copy of 'Case Files: Murder and Meaning' and then head to Jim's website to grab some exclusive bonus resources! If you know anyone who loves crime stories, comics, or big questions about life, this book might just be the tool that sparks some amazing faith conversations!

Jim's website: https://coldcasechristianity.com/

J. Warner Wallace & Jimmy's New Book: https://casefilesgraphicnovel.com/

The Truth in True Crime: https://a.co/d/0fE9crT

Cold-Case Christianity: https://a.co/d/dABS4uA

Person of Interest: https://a.co/d/69NoUEw

Why is propaganda and empty rhetoric so appealing to some people? In this midweek episode, Frank explains how the first of 'The Screwtape Letters' by C.S. Lewis perfectly illustrates the way demons manipulate human beings, now and throughout history. He'll also explore the recent power struggles between the Trump Administration and the lower district court judge who blocked Trump's transgender military ban. Frank will answer questions like:

• Why is using "jargon" instead of evidence-based arguments not good thinking?
• What specific tactics does C.S. Lewis say demons use to tempt humans and where do we see evidence of this happening in our culture today?
• Do all people have the right or privilege to serve in the military?
• Was Trump's decision to say transgender people are not qualified to serve in the military unconstitutional?
• Why is it so difficult to impeach judges, and do we really have only three branches of government?
• What do a lot of people get wrong about Islam?

Frank also tackles some listener questions about who will be resurrected (is it only Christians?) and whether an old-earth contradicts biblical genealogies. Plus, he’ll reveal details about his numerous speaking events coming up this spring—so listen closely to see if he's coming to a city near you!

Resources mentioned during the episode:

The ScrewTape Letters by C.S. Lewis - https://a.co/d/7F6GSTM

Federal Judge Appoints Himself President - https://bit.ly/4hLAjOI

Seven Days that Divide the World - https://a.co/d/0VxGRz6

The Case for Old-Earth Creationism (Genealogy Info) - https://bit.ly/4l0QTgh

Systematic Theology by Wayne Grudem - https://a.co/d/38DqgSZ

How do you capture your child’s attention so they know and live THE truth of Jesus while ensuring they aren’t indoctrinated by secularism? This week, Frank sits down with actor and conservative activist, Kirk Cameron, to talk about his partnership with Brave Books and his new children’s program, 'Iggy & Mr. Kirk', designed to train kids in the Lord. Together they tackle questions like:

• How did Kirk become a Hollywood actor at the age of 10 and then make the transition from atheism to Christianity?
• Why did Kirk need bodyguards and bulletproof vests when reading wholesome books at public libraries?
• What excuse do many Christians use to avoid engaging in culture battles instead of creating solutions to make things better?
• What does Kirk mean when he says there's two groups of people in the world--reporters and reformers?
• What makes 'Iggy & Mr. Kirk' different from every other television program made for kids?
• What Brave Book titles do Frank's grandchildren ask him to read to them over and over again?

If you want to be one of the first to get a sneak peek of 'Iggy & Mr. Kirk' and find out how your family can watch this brand-new series, along with more than 50 parent-approved shows that teach Christian values, don’t miss this fun and family-friendly episode of 'I Don't Have Enough Faith to Be an Atheist!'

Resources mentioned during the episode:

Kirk's website: https://www.kirkcameron.com/

Kirk's book 'Born to Be Brave': https://a.co/d/1FePYjg

Learn more about 'Iggy and Mr. Kirk': https://bit.ly/41OC8Et

Brave Books: https://bravebooks.us/

Brave+ Streaming Entertainment for Kids: https://braveplus.com/

Takeaways Podcast: https://bit.ly/4c5MEw1

American Campfire Revival: https://www.kirkcameron.com/acr

Are we witnessing a renewed interest in God, Christianity, and Jesus in today’s culture? Frank welcomes back our favorite father-son duo, Cliffe and Stuart Knechtle from the popular Youtube channel, 'Give Me an Answer', to share their unique insights into the recent rise of Christianity in the West, particularly on college campuses. Tune in as they answer key questions like:

• What major cultural shifts has Cliffe observed over the past 40 years, and why has he softened his approach?
• Why are young people today so anxious, and what is their biggest fear?
• What are some of the most common misconceptions and objections to Christianity that Cliffe and Stuart encounter, and how do they respond?
• Why should we care about sin?
• How should Christians address the topic of homosexuality and other cultural issues with grace and truth?
• How did the Knechtles end up on popular shows with Logan Paul, Alex O'Connor, and George Janko?
• How important is it to have an eternal perspective on life, and why is God’s judgment actually good news?

Cliffe and Stuart’s commitment to open-air preaching has led to incredible ministry growth—but not without its challenges! Find out what’s happening on the frontlines, where they’ll be traveling next, how you can be praying for them, and simple ways you can support their mission!

Connect with Cliffe and Stuart in-person or online using the links below!

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@givemeananswer

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stuart_knechtle

Website: https://givemeananswer.org/

Grace Community Church: https://www.gracecommunity.info/

How much evidence exists for the martyrdom of the apostles? Did they REALLY die for their faith? Forget 'Foxe’s Book of Martyrs'—the second edition of Sean McDowell's, 'The Fate of the Apostles', is today's go-to comprehensive resource for studying the martyrdom accounts of the apostles! Tune in as Frank and Sean investigate what really happened to the closest followers of Jesus and answer questions like:

• What incident spurred Sean to make 'The Fate of the Apostles' the topic of his doctoral dissertation?
• What updates has Sean made to the second edition of his book?
• Was Peter crucified upside-down and how did this tradition get started?
• Which apostles does Sean believe have the highest (and lowest) probabilities of being martyred?
• Is there evidence that any of the apostles recanted their testimony?
• Is John the only apostle who died from natural causes?
• If we say martyrdom proves Christianity is true, what about the martyrs of other religions?
• Is there good reason to believe that Joseph Smith died as a martyr for Mormonism?

Christians often use the martyrdom of the apostles to defend the credibility of Jesus' death and resurrection, but could we be overstating the case? Don't miss this fascinating episode of 'I Don't Have Enough Faith to Be an Atheist' to learn the answers!

Resources mentioned during the episode:

Sean’s website: https://seanmcdowell.org/

The Fate of the Apostles (2nd Edition): https://www.amazon.com/dp/1032580542

Why doesn’t God make Himself more obvious? If God truly exists, why wouldn’t He just appear to everyone and settle all doubts once and for all? In a world filled with skepticism, doubt, and unbelief, the "divine hiddenness" of God is one of the most common objections raised against Christianity. But is it really a valid reason to reject His existence? In this solo midweek episode, Frank tackles a listener’s question about God’s hiddenness and explores these questions along the way:

• Does the hiddenness of God negate the evidence we already have for His existence?
• What does Scripture reveal about why God may choose to remain unseen?
• Would seeing the full presence of God actually eliminate doubt and unbelief for some people?
• How do free will and love relate to divine hiddenness?
• Why didn't Jesus parade Himself around publicly post-resurrection so that everyone could see Him?
• How did so many Pharisee priests come to believe in Jesus?
• Were the angels ever exposed to the full presence of God?

If you—or someone you know—wrestles with the hiddenness of God, this episode will help you see how His presence can still be known. Don’t miss this thought-provoking discussion on one of the most challenging questions from skeptics!

Resources mentioned during the episode:

Don't forget to take our podcast survey! https://crossexamined.org/survey

The Screwtape Letters by C.S. Lewis: https://www.amazon.com/dp/0060652934

Were the Crusades unprovoked attacks by Christian armies, or was there something deeper at play? In this week’s episode, Frank invites historian Bill Federer to discuss the facts behind one of history’s most misunderstood events. Tune in as Bill unpacks its historical backdrop, revealing why Europe took up arms to blunt the rise and expansion of Islam. During their conversation, Frank and Bill will answer questions like:

• Did the Crusaders know the Bible?
• What did the Pope promise the Crusaders?
• How did Islam originate, and how did it expand so rapidly?
• Did Christianity spread as a direct result of the Crusades?
• What would have happened to Europe if the Crusades had never taken place?
• Were the Crusades an example of Just War?
• What was Muhammad's involvement in the slave trade, and what sparked the onset of the Dark Ages?
• What happened on the crusades that cannot be justified?

If you’ve ever struggled to answer objections about Christianity and the Crusades, you won’t want to miss this!

Resources mentioned during the episode:

Take our podcast survey! https://crossexamined.org/survey

Bill’s website: https://americanminute.com/

What Every American Needs to Know About the Quran: https://www.amazon.com/dp/0977808556

Bullies and Saints: https://www.amazon.com/dp/0310119375

Is it possible that Jesus, the most influential person in history, was just a fictional character? In this midweek podcast, Frank responds to a question from Elijah, a medical student in Ghana, whose evolutionist professor seems unwilling to consider that Jesus existed unless Elijah can provide first century sources from outside of the Bible. What's the most effective way for Elijah to engage with his teacher's skepticism? Join Frank as he explores these questions and more, including:

• How can you respectfully defend your faith in the classroom?
• What historical and archaeological evidence confirms Jesus’ existence?
• Are extra-biblical sources more credible than the New Testament writers?
• What common presuppositions do atheists hold, and how can you respectfully challenge them?
• Are there any atheist or agnostic New Testament scholars who believe that Jesus never existed?
• Was Christianity a Roman invention designed to control the masses?
• What unique characteristics does Jesus hold that we don't find in any other human being?

Tune in as Frank not only shares the facts, but also gives practical advice on engaging skeptics with confidence, clarity, and respect. This short but content-packed episode is full of valuable resources, so listen closely and be sure to check out the links below!

Resources mentioned during the episode:

BOOK: I Don't Have Enough Faith to Be An Atheist - https://bit.ly/3WX3Xc7

BOOK: Hollywood Heroes - https://bit.ly/3Or82Ax

BOOK: Stealing from God - https://bit.ly/41hLt91

BOOK: Can Science Explain Everything? - https://a.co/d/5ZRIFRT

BOOK: God's Undertaker: Has Science Buried God? - https://a.co/d/0yecDny

BOOK: Return of the God Hypothesis - https://a.co/d/6kHOck6

BOOK: Tactics - https://bit.ly/3DgZ1bm

Sorry Aunt Mildred and Uncle Bob– nobody wants to use your names for their children anymore! But what does that have to do with the credibility of the New Testament writers? In this fun and fascinating episode of 'I Don’t Have Enough Faith to Be an Atheist', Frank explores why the names we see recorded in ancient history matter and unpacks how these names serve as powerful evidence that the New Testament writers were actual eyewitnesses to the events they described in the Gospels and the Book of Acts. Join Frank as he tackles key questions like:

• How have name trends changed in the U.S. over the last 100 years, and how does this relate to the reliability of the Scriptures?
• What is an undesigned coincidence, and what examples of undesigned coincidences do we find in the New Testament?
• How do scholars know when Paul wrote his letters?
• Who are the 34 people mentioned in the New Testament that have also been verified by secular sources?
• What archeological evidence and non-Christian writings corroborate with what we see written in the Gospels?
• What's the Spider-Man Fallacy? And should the New Testament be categorized as historical fiction?

If you or anyone you know has ever struggled to believe that the New Testament is historically credible, this episode might change your mind!

Resources mentioned during the episode:

Jesus and the Eyewitnesses by Richard Bauckham - https://a.co/d/9v3GXeg

Cold Case Christianity (Updated & Expanded Edition) by J. Warner Wallace - https://a.co/d/5wQR5p2

NRBTV SERIES: Digging Up the Bible - https://crossexamined.org/tv-programs

In this midweek episode of 'I Don’t Have Enough Faith to Be an Atheist', Frank tackles some of your listener questions on a wide variety of topics! Tune in as he unpacks the unpardonable sin of blasphemy against the Holy Spirit mentioned in the Gospel of Matthew and other questions like:

• Should Christians be worried about committing the unforgivable sin?
• What makes the miracles of Jesus so unique compared to others who claimed to perform miracles, like Joseph Smith?
• How can we know anything about history and do we need to experience a historical event to know that it really occurred?
• Should you marry someone just based on love?
• What does the Bible say about a husband's responsibility to his family?
• Do intersex conditions mean there are more than two genders?

From historical reliability to gender ideology and practical wisdom for single Christians—this episode is jam-packed with insights you won’t want to miss. And be sure to check out the list of helpful resources below for more information on some of the topics discussed during the program!

Resources mentioned during the episode:

Mormon Challenges Frank on Biblical Inerrancy - https://youtu.be/9cQLSiNeNTc Correct, Not Politically Correct - https://bit.ly/3qws2ZL

What is the Unpardonable/Unforgivable Sin? - https://bit.ly/4bfjkCK

What is Blasphemy Against the Holy Spirit? - https://bit.ly/4bldu2z

1 Conservative vs 25 LGBTQ+ Activists - https://youtu.be/yBoFwaTWm70

Is free speech in danger? Arizona State University professor, Dr. Owen Anderson, returns to share an update on his ongoing litigation with the university and to unpack how censorship on U.S. soil threatens the First Amendment and our ability to preach and live the gospel. Frank and Owen dive into how the radical left uses emotional blackmail and fear tactics to silence opposition—and how you can recognize and push back against cancel culture. During their conversation, they'll tackle questions like:

• What's the state of free speech in Germany?
• Is hate speech protected by the First Amendment?
• What was the purpose of the First Amendment and why should we fight to protect it?
• Are we putting people in physical harm if we disagree with them?
• Can you stop fascism with fascism?
• Did Jesus ever insult anyone—and is it ever wise for Christians to do the same?

Later in the episode, Frank and Owen will comment on Vice President J.D. Vance's recent rebuke of European leaders, highlighting the fragile state of democracy and free speech abroad. They’ll also address ASU’s protests against Mary Rice Hasson for her stand against gender ideology and explore how the radical left weaponizes terms like "emotional abuse" to cancel critics. If you're concerned about preserving your right to speak freely, this eye-opening conversation is a must-listen!

Resources mentioned during the episode:

Owen’s Website: https://drowenanderson.com/

Owen’s Substack: https://drowenanderson.substack.com/

Free Speech for Me But Not For Thee: https://bit.ly/4b9BB4k

When Jesus Insulted People: A Comprehensive List - https://bit.ly/41eLolc

With the recent transfer of political power, how has the current administration managed to accomplish so much in such a short time? And are these rapid changes more beneficial or more detrimental to the American people? Jorge Gil and John Ferrer temporarily take over the 'I Don’t Have Enough Faith to Be an Atheist' podcast to examine President Trump’s bold political moves from a nuanced, biblical perspective, tackling key questions such as:

• What is the "shock and awe" strategy, and how is Trump using it to reshape the political landscape?
• How has the political left and legacy media lost the trust of the American people, and why have they failed to regain it?
• What were Trump’s three biggest campaign promises, and has he followed through on them?
• Is Trump acting like a dictator, or have the attacks against him only strengthened his influence?
• What has Elon Musk and DOGE uncovered about government waste and corruption?
• Why shouldn't Christians put too much trust in the Trump Administration or any political party?

It’s a fascinating—and at times overwhelming—political climate, but in this conversation, Jorge and John will encourage Christians to stay engaged, keep up with current events, and analyze it all through a biblical lens. Tune in to learn how Christians can stand as beacons of light, restore civil discourse, and foster courage and hope in America. You won’t want to miss this fast-paced, thought-provoking episode!

Resources mentioned during the episode:

Department of Government Efficiency: https://doge.gov/

2025 Donald J. Trump Executive Orders: https://bit.ly/4hN3gL2

24 Things Donald Trump Is Promising To Do: https://bit.ly/4hYdNCs

What could possibly be wrong with "following our heart"? Isn't that what culture always tells us to do? In this week’s solo podcast episode, Frank responds to a troubling email from "Jane", a self-identified lesbian teenager struggling with conflict at home since coming out to her mother. Tune in as Frank walks through a series of thought-provoking questions designed to help Jane reflect on the long-term consequences of her choices. During the episode, Frank tackles key questions, including:

• Why is theology the foundation of all knowledge?
• Why shouldn’t people define themselves by their sexual desires?
• What should (and shouldn't) parents do if your child comes out to you as same-sex attracted?
• Should your attractions determine your actions?
• What are three reasons why homosexuality falls short of natural marriage?
• Do sexual desires ever change over time?
• If no one is harmed, why shouldn’t people simply follow their hearts?
• How do sexual patterns among homosexuals differ from those in committed heterosexual relationships?

Do you have a question for Frank? Send it to Hello@CrossExamined.org!

BOOK: Correct, Not Politically Correct - https://bit.ly/3qws2ZL

BOOK: Born Again This Way by Rachel Gilson - https://a.co/d/9XMdcSu

BOOK: Five Lies of Our Anti-Christian Age by Rosaria Butterfield - https://a.co/d/7IsnzdP

YOUTUBE: Should You Follow Your Heart? Presentation - https://youtu.be/8yNyvlf2zqM