The World and Everything In It Episode: 2.28.25 The Slowing of Religious Decline, a Review of Last Breath, and Listener Feedback Release Date: February 28, 2025

Introduction

In this episode of The World and Everything In It, hosted by WORLD Radio, listeners are treated to a comprehensive exploration of current events, cultural discussions, and audience interactions. The episode delves into the potential plateauing of religious decline in America, offers a critical review of the survival-themed film Last Breath, and addresses various listener feedback. Anchored by hosts Myrna Brown and Nick Eicher, alongside experts John Stonestreet and Colin Garbarino, this episode provides insightful analysis grounded in sound journalism and a Christian worldview.

Section 1: News Highlights

U.S.-Ukraine Mineral Partnership

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky's visit to Washington marks a pivotal moment in U.S.-Ukraine relations. During his meeting with President Donald Trump at the White House, they are set to sign a historic agreement that positions the United States as a key partner in developing Ukraine's mineral resources, including rare earth elements, oil, and gas.

John Stonestreet [01:13]: "Partner in developing Ukraine's minerals and rare earths and oil and gases."

Trump emphasized the dual benefits of the deal, stating it would bolster Ukraine's economy and help the U.S. recoup billions in aid previously sent to Kyiv amidst the ongoing war. This shift in Trump's stance towards Zelensky suggests a strengthening alliance.

European Peacekeeping Efforts

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer's recent meeting with Trump underscored the UK's commitment to security in Ukraine and Europe. The UK, along with other European allies, insists that any peace deal with Russia must include a peacekeeping force on the ground in Ukraine to ensure lasting peace.

John Stonestreet [02:17]: "Planes in the air to support a deal, working together with our allies because that is the only way that peace will last."

U.S. Tariffs and Trade Policies

President Trump announced the imposition of a 25% tariff on goods from Mexico and Canada, in addition to a 10% tax on imports from China. While he hailed these measures as job creators and a means to revitalize U.S. manufacturing, critics argue they could exacerbate inflationary pressures in the economy. The administration faces pushback from Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, who contends that only a negligible portion of fentanyl enters the U.S. from Canada.

Supreme Court and USAID Funding

The Supreme Court has extended the Trump administration's window to contest a lawsuit challenging funding cuts and freezes at the USAID agency. The administration accuses USAID of exporting left-leaning ideologies, including LGBT rights, and seeks to pause its payments for an audit.

Kristin Flavin [03:58]: "Chief Justice John Roberts this week paused that district court ruling."

Israel-Hamas Hostage Situation

Israel has identified the remains of four more hostages killed by Hamas. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is leading negotiations in Egypt to extend a ceasefire and secure the release of additional hostages, emphasizing the moral and ethical imperative to bring them home.

Kent Covington [04:51]: "We have a moral obligation. It is our ethical obligation. We need to bring them home right now, as soon as possible, as soon as humanly possible."

Tragic Deaths of Gene Hackman and Betsy Arakawa

The deaths of legendary actor Gene Hackman and his wife Betsy Arakawa in New Mexico are under investigation. Initial reports suggested no signs of foul play, but authorities have since labeled the deaths as suspicious.

Kent Covington [06:32]: "Gene Hackman was known for numerous iconic Hollywood roles, including Lex Luthor, the Greatest Criminal Mind of Our Time."

Section 2: CULTURE Friday with John Stonestreet

The Slowing of Religious Decline

John Stonestreet engages in a thought-provoking discussion on whether the long-standing trend of religious decline in America is reaching a plateau. Citing a Pew Research study, Stonestreet highlights that the proportion of Americans identifying as Christian may have stabilized after decades of decline. Surprisingly, while younger adults ("nones") are less likely to identify as Christian, their overall religiosity has not diminished compared to previous cohorts.

John Stonestreet [08:46]: "It is very, very possible to be religious in a secular way... disconnecting the world from God."

Stonestreet challenges the traditional narrative of inevitable secularization, suggesting that increased religious engagement might either signify a genuine revival or a shift towards a more secular interpretation of religiosity.

High-Profile Conversions

The episode spotlights recent high-profile figures who have publicly embraced Christianity:

• Nicole Shanahan: A wealthy financier and former spouse of Google's Sergey Brin, Shanahan shared her dramatic baptism testimony on social media.

• Larry Sanger: Co-founder of Wikipedia, Sanger recounted his gradual intellectual return to Christianity, emphasizing a reasoned and evidence-based approach to faith.

Stonestreet discusses the implications of these conversions for apologetics and evangelism, arguing that intellectual engagement remains crucial for faith communication.

John Stonestreet [15:15]: "Christ is Lord of all."

In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) Debate

Addressing President Trump's executive order on IVF policy, Stonestreet critiques the move from a pro-life standpoint. He argues that IVF often results in the destruction of embryos and promotes family structures that deviate from traditional norms, such as same-sex couples.

John Stonestreet [16:05]: "We're talking about... human trafficking and slavery... it's ethically upside down."

Persecution of Christians in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC)

The tragic beheading of at least 70 Christians in the DRC by ISIS-affiliated terrorists is discussed, with Stonestreet emphasizing the need for a compassionate and active response from the global Christian community.

John Stonestreet [19:07]: "Our responsibility is to cry out on their behalf, ask God for mercy and do everything we can to advocate so that it doesn't continue to happen."

Section 3: Film Review – Last Breath

Colin Garbarino provides an in-depth review of the film Last Breath, a dramatization of a true survival story of saturation diver Chris Lemmons, who was stranded 300 feet below the North Sea.

Colin Garbarino [23:13]: "This is a taut 93 minute film about a courageous rescue mission."

The film stars Finn Cole as Chris, with Woody Harrelson and Simu Liu portraying veteran divers Duncan and Dave. The narrative captures the harrowing moments when Chris's umbilical cable snaps, leaving him with only minutes of oxygen while his crew races against time to rescue him.

Colin Garbarino [24:25]: "This movie about running out of oxygen feels like a breath of fresh air."

Garbarino praises the film for its realistic portrayal of saturation diving and its emphasis on the unseen, vital roles these divers play in maintaining global infrastructure. The film not only delivers suspense and emotional depth but also serves as an homage to the resilience and nobility of the human spirit.

Section 4: Listener Feedback

Corrections and Clarifications

Listeners contributed corrections regarding past episodes:

• Minnesota vs. Pennsylvania Law Practice: An immigration attorney was incorrectly identified as practicing in Pennsylvania; the correct state is Minnesota.
• Charlie Peacock's Birthplace: Initially reported incorrectly, Peacock was born in Yuba City, California, not as previously stated.

David Durst [28:25]: "Thank you for all your coverage of Alaska and keep up the great work."

Viewer Comments

Donald E. Durst from Alaska provided insights on the importance of aviation in remote areas, correcting previous pronunciations and adding context about road access in Nome.

Nathan, Environmental Engineering Professor: Criticized the program's coverage of Department of Government Efficiency layoffs, arguing that blanket layoffs do not effectively address issues of fraud, waste, and abuse without evaluating employee performance.

Nathan [29:48]: "There was no attempt made to discern how well the employees were doing their jobs."

Tim Smith: Appreciated the ministry and expressed gratitude for the podcast's service to the Christian community but offered mild criticism regarding perceived bias in reporting on asylum process changes at the Southern border.

Sarah Colin: Voiced concerns about the discontinuation of pennies, highlighting the practical challenges faced by parents in managing children's allowances without coins.

Sarah Colin [32:09]: "Without coins I don't see any way I could work their pay as I currently do."

Appreciative Feedback

Matt Brown from Tucson, Arizona lauded the program’s coverage of life in Syria, comparing it to high-quality news segments and commending its depth and educational value.

Matt Brown [32:25]: "You are really honing our appetites for better and better. And this certainly is an example of high quality better and better. Thank you so much."

Lorraine from Menifee, California congratulated Johnny Franklin on his semi-retirement, praising his behind-the-scenes contributions and creative placements in the program's music segments.

Conclusion

This episode of The World and Everything In It offers a blend of critical news analysis, cultural discourse, and community engagement. From geopolitical developments and economic policies to profound discussions on religion and ethical dilemmas, the podcast maintains its mission of delivering biblically grounded journalism. The review of Last Breath adds a cinematic perspective, while listener interactions reinforce the program's commitment to accuracy and responsiveness. Whether navigating complex global issues or celebrating personal conversions, WORLD Radio continues to inform, educate, and inspire its audience.

Notable Quotes:

• John Stonestreet [08:46]: "It is very, very possible to be religious in a secular way... disconnecting the world from God."
• John Stonestreet [15:15]: "Christ is Lord of all."
• John Stonestreet [16:05]: "We're talking about... human trafficking and slavery... it's ethically upside down."
• John Stonestreet [19:07]: "Our responsibility is to cry out on their behalf, ask God for mercy and do everything we can to advocate so that it doesn't continue to happen."
• Colin Garbarino [24:25]: "This movie about running out of oxygen feels like a breath of fresh air."

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