Podcast
I Don't Have Enough FAITH to Be an ATHEIST
Hosted by Dr. Frank Turek · EN
Cross Examining ideas against the truth and Christianity. Brought to you by CrossExamined.org and AFR.net
82episodes
Episodes
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Who Lives Inside Your Brain? The Disturbing Psychology of Conspiracy Theories and Parasocial Relationships with Anna Kitko
4d ago00:49:21Summary readyWhy are millions of people forming deep emotional attachments to celebrities, influencers, and online personalities they've never met? And why do some online figures inspire such fierce loyalty that followers will defend their claims, adopt their worldview, and trust their conclusions—often without any scrutiny or independent investigation?Frank sits down with spiritual abuse counselor and Ratio Christi leader, Anna Kitko, to investigate the hidden psychology behind parasocial relationships, conspiracy theories, and the digital voices competing for our trust. Together, they unpack how social media exploits our need for belonging and how seemingly harmless online habits can quietly shape the way we see reality. In this episode, you'll discover:Why is Anna uniquely qualified to talk about this topic?What happens in the brain when we form emotional attachments to celebrities and social media influencers?What are parasocial relationships and why do they feel so real?How does social media contribute to the spread of conspiracy theories and online echo chambers?Why are loneliness and isolation making people more susceptible to manipulation, false beliefs, and paranoia?What practical habits can help protect our minds from unchecked anxiety and paranoia?What's the connection between parasocial interactions and pornography?What is the "smoke detector principle" and how can it help us distinguish legitimate concerns from irrational fears?In a world where algorithms compete for your trust and attention, understanding the psychology behind influence has never been more important. Join Frank and Anna for a fascinating conversation and stay tuned for next week's episode to see and hear highlights from Frank's recent tour in Washington D.C. with Speaker of the U.S. House of Representatives, Mike Johnson!If you enjoyed this podcast episode PLEASE HELP US SPREAD THE TRUTH OF CHRISTIANITY BY SUPPORTING OUR MINISTRY USING THE LINK BELOW. 100% of your donation goes to ministry, 0% to buildings!Resources mentioned during the episode:Donate to CrossExamined - https://donor.crossexamined.org/beEmboldened Ministries - https://www.beemboldened.com/Connect with Anna through Ratio Christi - https://give.ratiochristi.org/missionary/anna-kitkoAnna's YouTube channel - https://www.youtube.com/@annakitko beEmboldened YouTube videos - https://www.youtube.com/@beEmboldened Univ. of Tenn Q&A with Alisa Childers & Anna Kitko - https://youtu.be/k85V8eLuZq8
SummaryThe Uncomfortable Truth Every Christian Needs to Know About Islam with Pastor Martin Sedra
1w ago00:52:14Summary readyWhat happens when Islam becomes the majority in a nation? Martin Sedra, pastor of Echo Church in Australia, returns to continue his blunt exposé on why Islam is not only a false religion, but also a spiritual and social disaster. From the horrors of Sharia law to Muhammad’s legacy as a warlord and sexual predator, be forewarned--this episode is NOT for young listeners!Join Frank and Martin as they answer questions like:What is Martin's unique approach to evangelizing Muslims?How do Muhammad’s life and personal actions compare to the moral character of Jesus?Can Muslims be sure of their salvation? And what should men and women expect in the afterlife?How do Mecca, Muhammad, and the Quran fail the test of history?Why does it seem that God is meeting Muslims through visions and dreams?What's one major clue that Islam is a man-made religion?Will there ever be peace in Iran?Has there ever been a nation called Palestine?Why is there a consistent pattern of instability and violence wherever Islam gains a foothold?Why is it important for Christians to oppose the rise of antisemitism in the Church?If you missed the first episode with Martin from last week, be sure to go back and give it a listen! You definitely don't want to miss a single second of this essential two-part series!If you enjoyed this podcast episode PLEASE HELP US SPREAD THE TRUTH OF CHRISTIANITY BY SUPPORTING OUR MINISTRY USING THE LINK BELOW. 100% of your donation goes to ministry, 0% to buildings!Resources mentioned during the episode:Donate to CrossExamined - https://donor.crossexamined.org/Martin’s website - https://www.martinsedra.com/The Muslim Brotherhood Tried to Kill His Family - What Happened Next? - https://youtu.be/O16P2NGO4fE Why the Foundations of Islam Are Now Crumbling with Dr. Jay Smith - Part 1 - https://youtu.be/FS5fiBg5FOI Why the Foundations of Islam Are Now Crumbling with Dr. Jay Smith - Part 2 - https://youtu.be/X5b8_dUoj9Y The Islamic Dilemma with David Wood - https://youtu.be/Z_eVB27PR1E The Hamas Charter - https://avalon.law.yale.edu/21st_century/hamas.asp
SummaryThe Muslim Brotherhood Tried to Kill His Family - What Happened Next? with Pastor Martin Sedra
2w ago00:49:21Summary readyThey tried to murder his family. So how did a religion with a centuries-long history of violence become successfully rebranded as the "religion of peace"? With the growing sympathy from liberals in the West and the passivity of the Church, could Sharia law eventually gain a foothold in America?Martin Sedra, pastor of Echo Church in Australia, joins Frank to offer a sobering wake-up call regarding Islam’s strategic mission to influence and dominate Western culture. Tune in as they discuss why Martin has dedicated his life and ministry to exposing Islam's sinister agenda and what the Church must do NOW to protect religious freedom in the West. Together they answer questions like:What terrifying (and possibly supernatural) event happened to Martin's family when they lived in Egypt?How did Egypt go from 90% Christian 1400 years ago to 10% Christian today?Isn't Islam a religion of peace?What is the doctrine of abrogation in the Quran and why is it a problem?How does violence in the Old Testament compare to jihad in the Quran?What do Muslims believe about the end times?Why does Martin compare Sharia Law to cancer?What is the unholy Red-Green alliance?What 3 covert strategies are currently being used to initiate an Islamic takeover of America?What does it mean to "globalize the Intifada"?What is Taqiyya in Islam and why should Christians be aware of this term?Is it possible to love Muslims but hate Islam?What is the #1 most important thing for Christians in America to do right now?Martin’s journey from a Christian refugee in Egypt to a pastor in Australia serves as a sobering warning that freedom is never guaranteed. This episode will challenge listeners to find the courage to get involved in the political process and stay bold in sharing the Gospel while we still have the liberty to do so. Stay tuned for the midweek episode as they discuss Martin's unique approach to evangelizing Muslims and the Israel-Hamas conflict.If you enjoyed this podcast episode PLEASE HELP US SPREAD THE TRUTH OF CHRISTIANITY BY SUPPORTING OUR MINISTRY USING THE LINK BELOW. 100% of your donation goes to ministry, 0% to buildings!Resources mentioned during the episode:Donate to CrossExamined - https://donor.crossexamined.org/Martin's website - https://www.martinsedra.com/What Is Sharia Law? - https://youtu.be/I3lgo9a3n5Q
SummaryHow a University Turned Jesus Into an Oppressor — One Professor's Fight Against DEI with Dr. Owen Anderson
2w ago00:54:03Summary readyHave you noticed that the world has collectively lost its mind? Between the push to "decolonize" education and the rise of mandatory DEI training, the landscape of the American university has shifted from a place of open inquiry to a battlefield of competing ideologies. What's behind the madness?Frank catches up with Arizona State University philosophy professor, Dr. Owen Anderson, to get an update on his high-stakes hearing with the Arizona Supreme Court. Owen shares his unique perspective on how cultural Marxism continues to silence free speech, logic, and the Christian worldview in many public universities--and why he's not backing down despite the consequences. Together, Frank and Owen answer questions like:Why did Dr. Anderson make the decision to engage in a legal battle when most people would just follow the path of least resistance?Why did his case get sent to the Arizona Supreme Court?What major flaws did Dr. Anderson discover in ASU’s mandatory DEI training?Who are the “oppressed” and “oppressors” in cultural Marxism and where does Jesus fit in?Why did ASU tell Owen he needed to "decolonize" his curriculum?What are the three specific drivers of critical theory currently shaping our culture?Who is the most hated "white man" today and why? (HINT: it's NOT Donald Trump)Why is logic the ultimate weapon when confronting self-defeating ideologies?What's the irony of keeping God and objective morality out of the classroom?What advice does Owen have for Christian parents sending their kids to college?How does Romans 1 accurately diagnose our current cultural chaos?Why is the Left funding and supporting its own ideological opponents like the KKK?As critical theories continue to influence laws and the classroom, understanding their roots is more important than ever. Tune in as Frank and Owen break down the consequences of suppressing truth while also offering a roadmap for how Christians can effectively push back against the madness.If you enjoyed this podcast episode PLEASE HELP US SPREAD THE TRUTH OF CHRISTIANITY BY SUPPORTING OUR MINISTRY USING THE LINK BELOW. 100% of your donation goes to ministry, 0% to buildings!Resources mentioned during the episode:Donate to CrossExamined - https://donor.crossexamined.org/Without Excuse by Dr. Owen Anderson - https://press.ratiochristi.org/product/without-excuse/Dr. Owen Anderson on Substack - https://drowenanderson.substack.com/Dr. Owen Anderson on YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@DrOwenAnderson Dr. Owen Anderson on X - https://x.com/dr_owenandersonTrain Your Brain: An Introduction to Logic - https://bit.ly/3Oczh51
SummaryAngels, Demons, and Aliens: What's the Evidence? with Billy Hallowell
3w ago00:49:26Summary readyIf the supernatural world of angels and demons described in the Bible is real, what tangible evidence exists for it today? And where do aliens and UFOs fit into the biblical worldview? Frank sits down with journalist, author, and digital TV host, Billy Hallowell, to discuss his new documentary film, ‘Investigating the Supernatural: Angels and Demons’. From demonic possession to miraculous healings and unexplained encounters, Billy shares what he’s uncovered, and how to separate what’s real from what isn’t. Tune in as Frank and Billy answer questions like:What led Billy to investigate angels and demons?Why is it healthy (and necessary) to be skeptical of supernatural stories?Is eyewitness testimony sufficient evidence for supernatural (and alien) encounters?What is Paul talking about in Ephesians 6:10?What's the difference between possession and oppression of evil forces?What turned psychiatrist and former skeptic Dr. Richard Gallagher into a believer of the supernatural?What's a significant but not so obvious difference between angels and demons?What does Hugh Ross think about aliens?Why are occult practices attractive to some people?Why does God heal some people and not others?Do only Christians believe in spiritual activity?Whether you're a believer or a skeptic, these accounts of the unseen realm may challenge your perspective. Be sure to check out Billy's new film, Investigating the Supernatural, and share this episode with someone exploring the BIG questions of faith!If you enjoyed this podcast episode PLEASE HELP US SPREAD THE TRUTH OF CHRISTIANITY BY SUPPORTING OUR MINISTRY USING THE LINK BELOW. 100% of your donation goes to ministry, 0% to buildings!Resources mentioned during the episode:Donate to CrossExamined - https://donor.crossexamined.org/Investigating the Supernatural: Angels and Demons - https://cbn.com/supernaturalPlaying with Fire by Billy Hallowell - https://a.co/d/02rynPBRThe War on Reality by Frank Turek and Phoenix Hayes - https://a.co/d/0b2fJU3JApply to CIA 2026 - https://cia.crossexamined.org/Hawaii Cruise - https://bit.ly/4dhTJdHAlaska Cruise - https://bit.ly/4tqHeCO
SummaryWhat If You Don’t Feel Saved? Plus More Q&A
3w ago00:54:05Summary readyAre strong emotional experiences required for salvation? Can you be a true follower of Jesus if you don’t "feel" saved? Many Christians wrestle with the gap between what they believe and what they experience during worship or Bible study time . But does the saving grace of Jesus come from a feeling or a decision?This week, Frank unpacks the danger of grounding your faith solely on feelings. He also tackles other listener questions related to politics, culture, and from a liberal listener on parenting in a digital age. Questions addressed include:Is a lack of emotion during worship a sign of a weak faith?What are the 3 essential aspects of human psychology?How is marriage in this life an illustration of our ultimate union with Christ?What's the difference between "belief that" and "belief in"?Did Jesus tell us to stay out of politics?Are only atheists qualified to run the government?Why didn't God stop Satan?How can parents effectively shield their children from harmful content on social media?What does dangerous online content teach us about human nature?Do you have a question for Frank that you'd like him to address in a future episode? Send it to hello@crossexamined.org!If you enjoyed this podcast episode PLEASE HELP US SPREAD THE TRUTH OF CHRISTIANITY BY SUPPORTING OUR MINISTRY USING THE LINK BELOW. 100% of your donation goes to ministry, 0% to buildings!Resources mentioned during the episode:Donate to CrossExamined - https://donor.crossexamined.org/Live Free Podcast - https://youtu.be/VSmveuVdaWM The Anxious Generation by Jonathan Haidt - https://a.co/d/00ZI2nuuPastorsBrief.com - http://pastorsbrief.com/Apply for CIA - https://cia.crossexamined.org/
SummaryMessianic Jew Reveals: Are Christians REALLY Being Persecuted in Israel? with Jeff Morgan
4w ago00:49:27Summary readyIs the state of Israel actually hostile toward Christians, or are viral claims from figures like Tucker Carlson distorting the truth and misleading the masses? This week, Messianic Jew and missionary, Jeff Morgan, joins Frank to drop a "boots on the ground" report on what it’s really like to live and share the Gospel in the Holy Land.Jeff shares his journey from secular Judaism to faith in Christ and pulls back the curtain on the surprising camaraderie (and the real tensions) between Israelis, Arabs, and Christians. Tune in as they answer questions like:Why did Jeff feel "spiritually tormented" for many years and how did he become a Messianic Jew?Why did he name his new ministry 'Highway 53'?What has Jeff personally experienced as a Messianic Jew living and working in Israel?Are Christians being persecuted in Israel and what does 'persecution' even mean?What are the legal implications when Jews religiously convert to Christianity in Israel?Can Christians worship freely in Israel without being harassed?How do Christians, Jews, and Arabs coexist daily in Israel?What's the difference between anecdotes and data?Is Israel an apartheid state?Why are so many Jews returning to Israel?Are Christians treated better in surrounding Muslim countries?Does Israel need to give up land in order to restore peace in the world?Want to see Jeff’s ministry in action on the streets of Israel? Be sure to visit his YouTube channel and website, Highway 53. And stay tuned for a very special project from Jeff and Sean McDowell, coming soon!If you enjoyed this podcast episode PLEASE HELP US SPREAD THE TRUTH OF CHRISTIANITY BY SUPPORTING OUR MINISTRY USING THE LINK BELOW. 100% of your donation goes to ministry, 0% to buildings!Resources mentioned during the episode:Donate to CrossExamined - https://donor.crossexamined.org/The Shocking Reality of the Treatment of Christians in Israel (Tucker Carlson) - https://youtu.be/rFgLe03bVnA Jeff's Website - https://highway53.org/Jeff's YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/@Highway53 The Hamas Charter - https://avalon.law.yale.edu/21st_century/hamas.aspPastors' Brief - http://pastorsbrief.com/
SummaryThe #1 Driving Force Behind Political Violence in America
4w ago00:50:17Summary readyWhy is political violence on the rise in America? Look no further than the manifesto written by the man who attempted to shoot up the White House Correspondents' Dinner on Saturday night. In today's podcast, Frank unpacks the serious consequences of a society influenced by critical theory, and offers insights on how teaching truth and logic rooted in Scripture can help address these issues. You'll also hear Frank's speech from the TPUSA Faith Pastor's Summit last week, where he offers a practical solution to this problem. Tune is as he answers questions like:What does recent survey data say about liberal vs. conservative views on political violence?What is the worldview that justifies political violence in very liberal people?Why do ideas have consequences?Why does critical theory promote perpetual conflict, not peace?Why is there so much evil in the world and what's the biblical solution?What is the culture's solution to evil and what makes it so dangerous?Why should we avoid "soft-serve" pastors and churches?What are the four I's--the most controversial and consequential issues the church faces today?For more information on this topic, be sure to check out the helpful resources in the list below and get your tickets for ‘The Story of Everything’, coming to theatres later this week (APRIL 30-MAY 6)!If you enjoyed this podcast episode PLEASE HELP US SPREAD THE TRUTH OF CHRISTIANITY BY SUPPORTING OUR MINISTRY USING THE LINK BELOW. 100% of your donation goes to ministry, 0% to buildings!Resources mentioned during the episode:Donate to CrossExamined - https://donor.crossexamined.org/What Americans Really Think About Political Violence - https://bit.ly/3QESvl4Pastors' Brief - http://pastorsbrief.comCrossExamined Instructors Academy (CIA) - https://cia.crossexamined.orgYou Can Do It! Defending Freedom with Rob Schneider - https://youtu.be/dX9S2vk7UJQ ‘The Story of Everything’ in theatres APRIL 30 - MAY 6 - https://www.thestoryofeverything.film/
Summary5 Things You and Your Kids Need to Build a Lasting Faith in a Changing World with Jonathan Morrow
Apr 2400:49:30Summary readyHow do you and your kids stay grounded in the Christian faith in a culture that is constantly changing and trying to distract us? Jonathan Morrow, director of cultural engagement and student discipleship at Impact 360 Institute, has been equipping students and parents for over 16 years, and is passionate about seeing a new generation build a lasting faith. His newly updated book, 'Welcome to College', helps guide students and their parents as they prepare for their college journey and life beyond the classroom.Join Jonathan and Frank as they discuss practical tips anyone can use to stay grounded in the Christian faith and answer questions like:What five things need to happen if someone wants to stay grounded in the Christian faith?Which thing is the hardest for anyone to achieve?Who influenced Jonathan's life the most as Christian mentors?What are the five biggest threats to the faith of the next generation?What are the five approaches that don't work to address these five threats?What is a therapeutic culture and how is it detrimental to our well-being?What are some practical strategies parents can use to help kids deal with controversial cultural issues?What's the difference between questions and doubts?In addition to the updated book, be sure to check out Jonathan's FREE College Starter Kit available right now at WelcomeToCollege.org. It includes practical tools designed to help new college students hit the ground running and stay spiritually grounded from day one.If you enjoyed this podcast episode PLEASE HELP US SPREAD THE TRUTH OF CHRISTIANITY BY SUPPORTING OUR MINISTRY USING THE LINK BELOW. 100% of your donation goes to ministry, 0% to buildings!Resources mentioned during the episode:Donate to CrossExamined - https://donor.crossexamined.org/Welcome to College by Jonathan Morrow - https://welcometocollege.org/Impact 360 - https://www.impact360institute.org/Jonathan's Website - https://www.jonathanmorrow.org/
SummaryIs Atheism Dead? 3 Scientific Arguments for God They Can’t Explain with Dr. Stephen C. Meyer
Apr 21Summary readyWhat are some of the most difficult arguments for atheists or agnostics to answer that support the conclusion that God exists? Dr. Stephen C. Meyer returns to the program to continue his discussion with Frank on his brilliant new film, 'The Story of Everything', coming soon to a theatre near you APRIL 30th-MAY 6th. It focuses on three major scientific arguments that have come up over the past 100 years that reveal a hidden hand behind the creation and sustainability of the universe.Together, they answer questions like:What is the fine-tuning argument and why do atheists have a hard time refuting it?What are the three levels of fine-tuning we see in the universe?What is the multiverse hypothesis and is it valid?Do we live in the matrix? What about aliens?Why can't some atheists "allow a divine foot in the door"?Who is Alan Sandage and how did he inspire Dr. Meyer?How does objective morality fit in with all of this?Is seeing always believing?What's the current status of naturalistic origin of life studies? Any progress or new discoveries there?Are scientists today moving back to the God hypothesis?How does a hidden hand behind our universe give life meaning?Don't forget, 'The Story of Everything' will only be available in theatres for a limited time! It's a great conversation starter for believers and skeptics alike, and will be extremely helpful for teenage and college students who often find themselves questioning the meaning of life. Please spread the word and support this amazing film!If you enjoyed this podcast episode PLEASE HELP US SPREAD THE TRUTH OF CHRISTIANITY BY SUPPORTING OUR MINISTRY USING THE LINK BELOW. 100% of your donation goes to ministry, 0% to buildings!Resources mentioned during the episode:Donate to CrossExamined - https://donor.crossexamined.org/The Story of Everything in theatres APRIL 30-MAY 6! - https://www.thestoryofeverything.film/Return of the God Hypothesis by Dr. Stephen C. Meyer - https://a.co/d/0298eBfiThe Signature in the Cell by Dr. Stephen C. Meyer - https://a.co/d/0g5FnsONDarwin's Doubt by Dr. Stephen C. Meyer - https://a.co/d/0c9Wdx09Hollywood Progressive review article by Peter McLaren - https://bit.ly/4vXWmtQWall Street Journal review article by Peter Robinson - https://bit.ly/3OW6jHn
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