The Christian Worldview

Send us a textGUEST: SOEREN KERN, Geopolitical Analyst and Managing Editor, The Christian Worldview JournalEarlier this month, President Trump and his administration brokered a ceasefire in the two-year-old war between Israel and Hamas that has taken place in Gaza, the small Palestinian territory in southwest Israel.After Hamas’ savage attack into Israel two years ago where they killed 1200 and took 250 hostages back to Gaza, Israel has systematically targeted entrenched Hamas fighters in Gaza, resulting in a near takeover and destruction of Gaza.So what makes this ceasefire significant? It’s what it doesn’t do and what it could lead to. While greatly diminished, Hamas lives on in Gaza, certain to rebuild, just as Iran is doing after President Trump called Israel off that war. In other words, while Israel has flexed powerful muscles across the Middle East, their enemies live on to fight another day. Meanwhile, President Trump is eager to have the Abraham Accords signed by Israel and longtime Arab enemies throughout he Middle East. Plus, there is a strong international push for a Palestinian state in Israel.Soeren Kern, geopolitical analyst and managing editor of The Christian Worldview Journal, joins us to discuss the ceasefire and how it may be setting the stage for God’s miraculous rescue in the future.

Send us a textGuest: Dr. George Barna, Director of Research, Cultural Research Center, Arizona Christian UniversityThe Bible says that in the time of the judges in Israel, “every man did what was right in his own eyes” (Judges 17:6). That is another way of saying the people were flagrantly breaking God’s laws and rationalizing their sin. Scripture is clear that all men and women are sinners by nature and by choice.For example, Romans 3 says:“for we have already charged that both Jews and Greeks are all under sin; as it is written, “There is none righteous, not even one; There is none who understands, There is none who seeks for God; All have turned aside, together they have become useless; There is none who does good, There is not even one” (Romans 3:9-12).Considering all the hate, murder, lying, lusting, stealing, coveting, envying, immorality, blasphemy, oppression, and much more that marks our world, it may seem surprising that Americans don’t see themselves as sinners but as basically good, and thus, do what is right in their own eyes.In a recent survey released by George Barna, Director of Research at the Cultural Research Center at Arizona Christian University, “only half of all American adults (52%) believe that everyone has sinned…and even among theologically-defined born-again Christians, one in four denies personal guilt of sin.” What’s more, “among self-identified Christians, 72% believe that people are “basically good at heart.”This is troubling and egregious error, especially by those who profess to be part of the church. Today on the program, George Barna joins us to discuss the changing view of sin by Americans and Christians and what has led to it. We will also discuss why conviction over one’s sin is so important because it shows us our need for the only remedy.------------------------------------RELATED RESOURCES:Report #9: Research Identifies Common Sources of Confusion about Sin Report #8: Millions of American Christians Deny Their Sinfulness 

Send us a textThis program previously aired on November 11, 2023 following Hamas’ October 7 raid on Israel.  GUEST: CHRIS KATULKA, Radio Host, Friends of Israel Gospel MinistryA “moral equivalency” is argumentation that attempts to make two opposing sides equal, when in reality one side is far more immoral than the other.Example: Israel and Hamas. The Islamist group Hamas, based in the Palestinian territory of Gaza, barbarically slaughters 1400 civilians in the October 7 raid on Israel and immediately those who side with Palestinians make the moral equivalency that Israel is no better with their racist, oppressive, colonialist, genocidal, apartheid state.A better moral equivalency to Hamas murdering non-combatants, including children, would be the American zealots who advocate for the “right” to kill pre-born children at any time and for any reason during pregnancy. In fact, the latter group has been much more effective from a death toll standpoint than the former. And the people of Ohio just voted for abortion to be a “right” in their state constitution.In last week’s program, Chris Katulka of Friends of Israel Gospel Ministry clarified the disinformation (i.e. lies) that so many believe and espouse about Israel and the Jews, such as, they are occupying Palestinian land. Chris detailed the ancient history of Israel with God establishing for them a far larger area of land than their currently inhabit and how in 1948 they were unexpectedly granted a portion of their historic homeland to settle.This week in part two of the interview, Chris will explain what is behind the widespread anti-semitism in the world, how Christians should obey God’s command to bless the descendants of Abraham and Sarah (the Jews) despite their current God- and Christ-rejection, and what these events mean for Biblical prophecy.

In this conversation, Mark Spence, Evangelist and Senior VP at Living Waters, shares his transformative journey from a would-be thief to a passionate advocate of the gospel. He emphasizes that evangelism is a loving response to personal salvation, noting the importance of discipleship throughout church history. Mark discusses bridging conversations with testimonials while addressing common objections to faith. He urges believers to overcome their fears and embrace their roles in evangelism, ultimately highlighting the urgency of sharing the gospel's core message.

Send us a textWe weren’t planning to spend a third straight week discussing Charlie Kirk and the issues surrounding his assassination, but after watching his memorial service this past Sunday, it became clear that there is more to consider.The memorial service was something I’ve never seen. From the scale of the event (nearly 200,000 in attendance at two adjoining stadiums and an estimated viewing audience of 100M) to the notable attendees (President Trump and most of his cabinet) to above all, the proclamation of the gospel over and over again by many of the speakers.The service was truly remarkable and worthy of our rejoicing.TPUSA, the organization Charlie Kirk founded and led, has the video of the entire service on their YouTube page and I recommend you watch it. The first three-and-half-hours was a music concert as attendees filed in. The final four-and-a-half hours featured speaker after speaker.The climactic message was not the final one given by President Trump but rather the penultimate by Charlie Kirk’s widow, Erika. Considering the unimaginable grief of having her husband shot and killed in public 11 days earlier, considering the worldwide magnitude of the event, the content of her message and the manner in which she delivered it was one of the most impactful speeches I have ever seen. We’ll play some of her message in the final segment today.Before we get to that, we’ll discuss the remarkable nature of this event and how God has truly worked something good and great through the assassination of Charlie Kirk. We’ll also discuss how transformative movements like this need secure boundaries lest they compromise the Word and misrepresent God.

Send us a textThe horrific and heinous murder of Charlie Kirk, a young husband and father and conservative and Christian leader, has sent shock waves throughout the world. People are gathering all across our country and in other nations to remember this extraordinary young man.Many on the left however, are revealing their hateful, unmerciful hearts, expressing their glee that Charlie Kirk was shot dead. We live in a wicked world.As a follow up to last week’s program, we’ll discuss five observations on the murder of Charlie Kirk, from the motive of the murderer, to the celebration of those who hate Charlie, to a caution for Christians.Later in the program, we’ll air part 2 of the interview with Mike Gendron of Proclaiming the Gospel Ministry, about Understanding Catholicism and Remembering the Reformation.REMINDER: Mike Gendron will be speaking at Anchor Bible Church here in MN at the “Understand Catholicism Conference” 

Send us a textGUEST: TRAVIS ALLEN, pastor, Grace Church (Greeley, CO)In our country today there is no shortage of violent acts that shock the senses. We did a recent program on the man who falsely believed he was a women who opened fire at a Catholic school in Minneapolis, killing two young children.On the heels of that was a young Ukrainian immigrant minding her own business on a train in North Carolina only to have the man sitting behind, 14 times previously arrested, suddenly stand up and stab her to death. The video shakes one to the core.And then on Wednesday of this week, Charlie Kirk, founder and president of Turning Point USA, a conservative organization on high school and college campuses, and perhaps the most influential conservative leader in the country other than President Trump, was assassinated by a sniper as he spoke at an event at Utah Valley University. Charlie Kirk was married and the father of two young children. He was just 31 years old.Kirk was known for his sharp intellect, determination, leadership, and articulate, persuasive and bold debate style. At his events on college campuses, he would answer questions from everyone, even those vehemently opposed to his views.Charlie Kirk was also known for being a forthright Christian who boldly proclaimed the gospel of Jesus Christ.The killing of Kirk has been a collective gut punch to those on the right. But to some on the left, his death has been disturbingly celebrated.This reveals not just a divide in our country but a dark and wicked deception that has hardened the hearts of too many. In a country with freedom of religion and speech in our Constitution, no one should be assassinated for viewpoints. But to the modern left, to disagree with them is to be a danger in need of silencing.Charlie Kirk has been silenced from speaking in this life but he has no doubt inspired a generation to stand up for their Christian and conservative beliefs.Travis Allen, pastor of Grace Church in Greeley, CO, joins us to discuss the several aspects of the murder of Charlie Kirk.

Send us a textGUEST: ROBERT KNIGHT, columnist, Washington TimesIn late August, during the first week at Annunciation Catholic School here in Minneapolis, a young man who was so confused that he falsely believed he was a woman (what society incorrectly terms “transgender”), took multiple firearms to the school and started shooting. Sadly, two children were killed and 17 others injured, before the gunman killed himself.While the media blamed “guns” for yet another school shooting, the reality is that this young man’s confusion about his gender, which was affirmed by his parents, use of marijuana, and focus on evil spirituality (in his manifesto was a drawing of the Satanic figure Baphomet).Robert Knight, columnist for the Washington Times, joins us today to discuss his most recent article on this “trans” murder rampage and how this has become a trend.Later in the program, Mike Gendron of Proclaiming the Gospel Ministry, will join us to discuss Understanding Catholicism, Remembering the Reformation in light of a conference he will be speaking at Oct. 10-12 in Minnesota.------------------------------You can receive Robert Knight’s weekly column by sending an email to robertknight4@gmail.comMon, Sept 8 is the deadline to register to attend The Overcomer Foundation Cup Golf and Dinner Event at White Bear Yacht Club near St. Paul, MN. The event takes place on Mon, Sept 15. Space is still available for golfers. Non-golfers are invited to arrive between 4:30-5 to enjoy the beautiful setting, explore auction items, and attend the dinner and post-golf program from 5:30-7pm.

Send us a textGUEST: MATT MACARTHUR, eldest son of Pastor John MacArthurThere are several common terms for the ceremony that takes place after death—funeral, celebration of life, memorial service. You can tell a lot about the deceased by the manner and mood of their service. Some are focused on how accomplished and full of good works the person was. Others are about happy memories and photos. Still others are like a dirge, full of grief over the loss.The Bible says, “But we do not want you to be uninformed, brethren, about those who are asleep [dead], so that you will not grieve as do the rest who have no hope. For if we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so God will bring with Him those who have fallen asleep in Jesus” (1 Thessalonians 4:13-14).To be sure, there should be grief over the loss of a loved one, for we will never see or speak to that person again in this life. Jesus Himself wept when seeing the family and friends of Lazarus lament over his death, not because they wouldn’t see him again (He was about to raise him from the grave) but because death is the ultimate enemy and reality of our sin-corrupted world.But the passage above says believers shouldn’t “grieve as do the rest who have no hope” because of the promise that God will bring true believers into His presence in heaven to live for eternity, where there is no sin, pain, or death.This is why for the believer the service following death should largely focus on the greatness of God and how He brings the believer into an infinitely better eternity. Instead of a memorializing or celebrating this life, it really should be a worship service of God for this life, and even more, the next.I attended the memorial service for pastor John MacArthur this past weekend at Grace Community Church in Los Angeles, MacArthur went to heaven back on July 14 at age 86 after nearly three years of health problems.Outside my parents, MacArthur has had the most important influence on my life, through his preaching and character. So my older brother and I traveled to the church, as we have done many times over the years for the Shepherds’ Conference, an annual convergence for men in ministry. Only this time, we wouldn’t be hearing MacArthur preach. We would be hearing others praise God for the grace and gifting he showered on MacArthur’s life and the eternal reward he is now receiving.Scripture was read by MacArthur recorded from a past sermon. John Piper offered a personal reflection. Alistair Begg prayed. Joni Eareckson Tada sang and spoke. MacArthur’s two sons, Matt and Mark, offered personal perspectives. Sinclair Ferguson preached. Christ-exalting hymns were sung by the Gettys, soloists, choir, and congregation. It was two hours and forty-five minutes of worshiping God for the good work He did in the life and ministry of John MacArthur.MacArthur’s eldest son Matt joins us today on the program. Matt and his wife have been married for 40 years and are the parents of three adult children and grandparents of seven. He works in the investment management business and also serves as the president of Grace to You. Matt will offer unique insight into his dad and what the family was aiming to accomplish in the service.---------------------------------Watch John MacArthur's Memorial ServiceJohn MacArthur biography by Iain Murray

Send us a textGUEST: JOSH BARZON, author, graphic designer, and content creator On X: @JoshuaBarzonThe claims of Scripture are far above and beyond any other book—inspired by God, without error, unchanging, unfailing. In a word, supernatural.The Bible says in 2 Peter 1:20-21: “know this first of all, that no prophecy of Scripture is a matter of one’s own interpretation, for no prophecy was ever made by an act of human will, but men moved by the Holy Spirit spoke from God.”Or how about Hebrews 4:12: “For the word of God is living and active and sharper than any two-edged sword, and piercing as far as the division of soul and spirit, of both joints and marrow, and able to judge the thoughts and intentions of the heart.”Put together, God directed the authors what He wanted to communicate and God’s Word powerfully accomplishes God’s desires in the human heart.Now consider that the 66 books of the Bible were authored by 40 men over a span of 1500 years in three languages (Hebrew, Greek, and Aramaic) on three continents (Africa, Asia, and Europe). The original manuscripts written by these 40 authors no longer exist but thousands of full or partial copies of the original books do exist. Nearly 25,000 copies of the New Testament alone exist. Compare that to Homer’s Iliad with only 2000 copies. The existence of so many copies of Scripture allows them to be compared to each other to authenticate accuracy. In other words, more copies results in more certainty.The Bible has also been translated from its original languages into hundreds of languages, with dozens of translations and paraphrases in the English language alone—King James Version, Geneva Bible, New American Standard, English Standard Version, New International Version, and on and on.Taking all this into consideration, is the Bible we have in our English language today an accurate representation of what the authors of Scripture wrote or has there been significant loss of the text during its transmission from original manuscripts? And what about the many English versions—are they fully trustworthy to be considered the Word of God?Josh Barzon has done much research on the transmission and translations of the Bible. He was born in the Middle East and now lives in America, working as a content creator, graphic designer, and author of The Forgotten Preface: Surprising Insights on the Translation Philosophy of the King James Translators.He joins us to discuss the supernatural Scriptures and how God has preserved His Word precisely over the centuries so that can know when you read the Word of God, you can know you are hearing from the God of the Word.