IS IT TOO LATE TO ACCEPT CHRIST WHEN MENTAL CAPACITIES FADE?

Summary

Episode Summary: “Is It Too Late to Accept Christ When Mental Capacities Fade?” Wretched Radio with Todd Friel Hosted by Fortis Institute Release Date: March 7, 2025

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Introduction

In this thought-provoking episode of Wretched Radio with Todd Friel, the host delves into a deeply sensitive and complex theological question: “Is it too late to accept Christ when mental capacities fade?” The discussion navigates the intersection of faith, cognitive decline, and salvation, providing listeners with nuanced insights and compassionate guidance.

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Main Discussion: Salvation and Diminished Mental Capacities

The episode centers around a poignant question from a listener, Teresa Todd, who inquires whether a person who has denied Christ throughout their life can still become a Christian as they suffer from Alzheimer's disease. Jimmy Hicks, one of the show's primary speakers, offers an extensive and heartfelt response to this dilemma.

Key Points Discussed:

1. Cognitive Function and Salvation:

   • Jimmy Hicks emphasizes the necessity of some level of cognitive functioning for salvation:
     “There has to be some sort of cognitive functioning. There has to be some ability to comprehend on some level.” [04:02]
   • He acknowledges miraculous instances where individuals with severe cognitive impairments exhibit signs of faith, yet advises against relying solely on miracles:
     “I would not rely on that. Be as eager and aggressive as you can with sharing the gospel while somebody has their cognitive capacities.” [06:00]

2. Urgency in Sharing the Gospel:

   • Hicks underscores the importance of disseminating the gospel proactively:
     “Don’t delay, don’t bank on that. Be as eager and aggressive as you can with sharing the gospel.” [06:30]
   • He advocates for immediate action to ensure that individuals retain the capacity to understand and accept salvation.

3. God’s Mercy and Grace:

   • For those born with cognitive impairments or who are mentally incapacitated from birth, Hicks offers reassurance of God's mercy:
     “I think God is merciful to those.” [07:30]
   • He encourages parents of such children to continue nurturing faith through songs, prayers, and Bible readings, trusting in God's ability to save even those with minimal cognitive responses:
     “God can save them and he has saved them and he will take them safely home with him when they die.” [08:45]

4. Avoiding Universalism:

   • While optimistic, Hicks clarifies that the discussion does not endorse universalism:
     “We don’t want to just become universalists that say, well, everybody got saved.” [09:10]
   • Instead, he maintains a position of hope grounded in biblical principles and the character of a loving God.

Notable Quote:

"Don’t give up hope. Just don’t give up hope." — Jimmy Hicks [10:15]

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Listener Questions and Discussions

1. Dividing Inheritance Among Non-Believing Children

Question from Dan: “Todd, I'm wondering if you could give some direction on the best way to divide up an inheritance when there are children that aren't followers of Jesus, that are lazy and may use the money contrary to parental intent.” [16:39]

Jimmy Hicks’ Response:

• Biblical Principles: Hicks references Biblical guidance on inheritance, affirming the right to leave an inheritance to children while emphasizing prioritizing kingdom advancement: “Biblically, you can leave an inheritance where it goes. I think kids and ministry are, I think, would be the leanings that I get from the Bible.” [17:10]

• Wisdom in Distribution: He advises against equal distribution if it would lead to irresponsible spending, suggesting the use of trustees or structured wills:
  “If you know that a kid is going to put that money right up their nose or use it for licentious living, well, I don’t think that’s wise.” [18:00]

• Seeking Counsel: Hicks recommends involving trusted, godly individuals in decision-making to ensure balanced and wise distribution:
  “Bring somebody into your life with whom you can be transparent. Probably somebody who has kids and maybe even grandkids to say, here’s what we’re thinking.” [19:30]

Notable Quote:

"Sit down and make these decisions when your frame of mind is not agitated and you're not annoyed with the kids because you'll make bad decisions if you do so." — Jimmy Hicks [17:35]

2. Reconciliation in Heaven with Those We’ve Wronged

Question from Brad: “Do you think we will reconcile with anyone we have wronged or been wronged by when we get to heaven, or will there be full reconciliation automatically?” [21:12]

Jimmy Hicks’ Response:

• Total Reconciliation: Hicks expresses certainty that all wrongs will be made right in heaven:
  “I think that’s going to be made right. You get a body, you have your senses. ... Everything will be made new.” [21:30]

• Emotional Reunions: He envisions heartfelt reunions that surpass earthly relationships:
  “When you get together with somebody with whom you've reconciled in this life, is it not sweet and profound and deep? Of course it is.” [22:15]

• Eternal Harmony: Hicks reassures that heavenly relationships will be free from sin and strife:
  “Being brought together for the first time in that joyful reunion, why wouldn’t that be joyfully tear-filled and wonderful?” [23:00]

Notable Quote:

"Heaven is going to be a better earth." — Jimmy Hicks [22:45]

3. Handling Inheritance Among Non-Following Children (Continuation)

(Refer to above section for detailed discussion.)

4. Dealing with Pornography and Biblical Leadership After Confession

Question from Anonymous: “God has graciously gifted me with repentance from a decade and a half of pornography and recently confessing my sin to my wife of seven years. What does biblical leadership look like in this season?” [32:19]

Jimmy Hicks’ Response:

• Immediate Cessation: Emphasizes the importance of stopping the sinful behavior:
  “Stop watching porn now. Just be done with it. ... It is poison. It is deadly. Stop it.” [32:44]

• Transparency and Accountability: Advises being transparent with one’s spouse by eliminating access and seeking accountability:
  “Here’s my phone. Honey, I’m home. Here it is. Please.” [34:10]

• Rebuilding Trust: Encourages gratitude, earning back trust, and demonstrating godly character through actions:
  “Start being godly. Don’t just stop looking at porn. Start cherishing her.” [35:25]

• Spiritual Leadership: Calls for becoming a spiritual leader in the household by engaging in prayer and Bible reading:
  “Be a spiritual leader. Start cherishing her.” [36:15]

Notable Quote:

"Your behavior is very displeasing to your God. And you are not being the man that you could be. Just be done with it." — Jimmy Hicks [32:50]

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Further Discussions

5. Why Doesn’t God Reveal Himself Publicly?

Question from Douglas Todd: “Why doesn't God reveal Himself publicly?” [51:12]

Jimmy Hicks’ Response:

• Historical Revelation: Highlights Jesus Christ as the ultimate public revelation of God:
  “He did in the person of Jesus Christ. ... We have a written record of it.” [51:17]

• Heart Over Miracles: Asserts that personal transformation is a matter of the heart, not public displays:
  “Miracles don’t save. A personal appearance from God does not guarantee salvation. It’s a heart issue.” [52:00]

• Faith through the Word: Encourages relying on the Bible and personal faith over seeking overt divine revelations:
  “We have the word of God, and that’s why we use it when we witness.” [52:45]

Notable Quote:

"An appearance from God isn't going to save you. Besides, he already appeared." — Jimmy Hicks [51:35]

6. Handling Heretical Materials Like the Book of Mormon

Question from Anonymous: “If I find a book from another religion like the Book of Mormon in a public place, would it be right for me to throw it away to prevent someone else from reading heretical material?” [53:28]

Jimmy Hicks’ Response:

• Respect for Property: Advises against destroying others' property as it can lead to vigilantism:
  “Do I believe that you should go about the business of destroying somebody’s property? I don’t know that we're given permission to do that.” [53:41]

• Legal and Moral Boundaries: Emphasizes obeying the law and maintaining moral integrity:
  “We obey the law, we don’t destroy other people’s property.” [54:10]

• Personal Choice: Suggests that while one may choose to discard such materials, it should not involve harming others or breaking laws:
  “Until tomorrow. Go serve your king.” [55:00]

Notable Quote:

"It could lead to all kinds of vigilantism... so I think I would lean toward, as much as you'd like to ditch it, ... but don’t destroy other people’s property." — Jimmy Hicks [54:20]

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Conclusion

Throughout the episode, Jimmy Hicks provides biblically grounded advice, balancing doctrinal accuracy with compassionate understanding. His responses encourage proactive faith, responsible decision-making, and trust in God's mercy. The episode serves as a valuable resource for listeners grappling with complex spiritual and ethical questions, reinforcing the show's commitment to addressing tough theological issues within the Christian community.

Final Notable Quote:

"Heaven is going to be a better earth... Don't give up hope." — Jimmy Hicks [22:45]

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Additional Resources Mentioned:

• Biblical Counseling: For personal and relational guidance, listeners are encouraged to visit biblicalcounseling.com.
• Upcoming Events: Attendance and volunteer opportunities at fortisinstitute.org.

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This summary aims to encapsulate the depth and breadth of the episode, offering a comprehensive overview for those who haven't tuned in.

Transcript

[Todd Friel]

Wretched radio begins in 3, 2, 1.

[Jimmy Hicks]

We've had 35 resurrections of the dead. The closer they are to freshly dead, the easier they are to resurrect. So I see this giant angel, and I asked him his name. It's a financial company, and I realized this angel is here for our finances. And that's a true, literal story, by the way. These people are charlatans. And it's about time we draw a line in the sand and stop fraternizing with the wolves.

[Todd Friel]

It's time for Wretched Radio with Tod Frio.

[Jimmy Hicks]

My apologies for two reasons. My first apology is that I still sound rotten. My second apology is because this little montage is way too long. I'm sorry. Terribly sorry. I am sorry.

[Stu]

So sorry.

[Jimmy Hicks]

I'm sorry, Dave. Oh, sorry. Please accept. Oh, I'm sorry.

[Unknown]

My ap.

[Jimmy Hicks]

This is. Oh, it's still going on. I apologize for that. But I think you'll find this a bit more interesting. Here we. Oh, sorry. Didn't mean to frighten you. I am more sorry than you will ever know. Sorry about this.

[Stu]

I know it's a bit silly.

[Jimmy Hicks]

Sorry. This is Wretched Radio. Let's do this, shall we?

[Todd Friel]

It's the Wretched Radio Mail call, delivery bag, Q and A infotainment nationwide.

[Jimmy Hicks]

It wasn't a very good mix, was it, Jimmy?

[Todd Friel]

Correspondences, communiques, dispatches, memorandums and missives.

[Jimmy Hicks]

Any special message for all the kids watching at home.

[Stu]

What we need right now is a clear message to the people of this country.

[Jimmy Hicks]

You have 1200 messages. That is a bit above average.

[Todd Friel]

Now, here's your host, Todd Freakishly Tall Friel.

[Jimmy Hicks]

The family's here. Okay. Struggling a little bit. Still with the nasal business. Nevertheless feel fit as a fiddle and super thankful that you send Stu, which you continue to do. And so grateful that you send things to ideaetched.org or you text like a nobody's business to 877-28-22337.

[Unknown]

So do you think you can. Do you think you're going to be able to think in order to answer these questions? I'm just asking.

[Jimmy Hicks]

Just because my nose. I can't breathe through my nose doesn't mean that I'm not getting oxygen.

[Unknown]

Okay, so you're.

[Jimmy Hicks]

Although I got to tell you some. You know when you got that head cold and you're sleeping at night and you become a mouth breather and you wake up and it's like, who put triskets in my mouth? I hate that. It's awful. And isn't it amazing once again, how The Lord made the human body. We've got this. This big, gaping hole. So when we're exercising, we're doing a strenuous activity. We get the oxygen we need. But when we're sleeping, so that we don't turn into. He gave us a nose. Brilliant. I'm serious. Absolutely brilliant. That. That thought dawned on me a number of times when I was twisting in bed. Oh, man. It was the. It was the achy flu and the headache flu. I'm pretty certain this is right. You've got muscles on the side of your head. Have you ever had that headache? And people sometimes, you know, they rub their temples. Well, you rub the side of your head, like right above your ear. It's like you got muscles there. And just. I had. Whatever. Whatever this is that everybody seems to be getting. That was my version of it. And lots and lots of sleep and lots of. Lots of Triscuit making. 8, 7, 7, 2, 8, 2, 2, 3, 3, 7.

[Unknown]

All right, we're going to start with a question from Teresa Todd. Can a person who denied Christ all their life become a Christian when they no longer have their mental capacities because of Alzheimer's? I've heard of several people saying their parents did this and wondered if it was possible.

[Jimmy Hicks]

Well, there has to be some sort of cognitive functioning. There has to be some ability to comprehend on some level. Now, would I make some sort of a definitive statement when it comes to a degenerative disease like that? I just. I wouldn't want to make that sort of pontification because we know that. Have you seen the videos? Remember the ballet lady, which I think is actually called a ballerina, not to get all technical, but she's in a nursing home and she was in her chair and pretty diminished, although she was probably a very slight lady anyway. And they started playing Swan Lake and instantly, you know, her arms started beautifully to. And it's like it was. It's there, it's there. And how many video. In fact, I think we did a montage of this once. Not as long as that. Sorry, montage, but it was a montage of people who were at the bedside of people who had Alzheimer's who were almost just completely incapacitated. And they'd start singing Amazing Grace or Jesus Loves Me. This I know. How's about that woman? Do you remember that woman? The video was. Hey, mom, who am I? I don't know. Hey, what'd you have for lunch today? I don't know. Where are you? I don't know. Do you remember Stan Johnson? I don't I don't, I don't, I don't know who's Jesus? He's my savior. I love Jesus. He, he rescued me. He forgave me. Where did that come from? So can those things happen? I wouldn't say that God couldn't do that, but I would not rely on that. Because once the brain, there is a cognitive aspect of salvation. You got to understand truth, you've got to hear the truth, you've got to able to process the truth. Now, God does all of that work for us, but nevertheless, don't delay, don't bank on that. Be as eager and aggressive as you can with sharing the gospel while somebody has their cognitive capacities. I, I, I, I, I wouldn't, I wouldn't say that they're condemned if, if, if they, they, you, you stall on that. And, and that God couldn't save them once they, they continue to diminish to a point where we would say, I don't know that they're process. He could. But I wouldn't delay. I'd make it a matter of urgency as much as you possibly can and trust the Lord in these things because I happen to know out of the tens and tens of people listening to this here wretched radio program, not only are people who have parents or loved ones who have Alzheimer's kind of noodling this right now, so are those who have children who would be deemed as somewhere on the mental health spectrum being mentally incapacitated to some degree there when it can my kid get saved? Can my kid get saved? I think that we can be more encouraging than, less encouraging with that. Because I think that God, I don't, I'm stammering right now, not because of the medication I'm on, but because I don't want to get this wrong and be unnecessarily offensive. Is mentally retarded still a word that can be used?

[Unknown]

I mean, I think it's an official diagnosis.

[Jimmy Hicks]

Okay, okay. All right. We're all mentally, all of us serious. I know the idea is that this, this would be mental capacities outside of the norm. But what I'm saying is that all of our brains are diminished. All of that. Are you kidding me? Are. We love to think that we're progressing. We are regressing, we are devolving, not evolving. Our brains aren't getting better. Do you see what our ancestors used to be able to do and create and think and write? We're going downhill. So, so let's be careful that we don't disqualify somebody from the kingdom because they can't get it. Now, a couple of things surrounding that. Number one, if somebody genuinely cannot get it, first of all, could God make them to get it? Sure, he could do that. But just because if they can't get it, I think God is merciful to those. Now, I'm talking about from birth. I'm not talking about somebody who is 50 years old who has a brain injury and now can't get it. I fear their fate would be sealed because they are incapacitated and they cannot process the truth and respond rightly to it. But I'm talking about children that are born that way. I think God is gracious and kind and he's going to take your child to heaven when they do die. And I think you can have complete comfort in that. Furthermore, if you do have a child that is, I hope this word is correct, mentally retarded, you need to know that God can work with very little. Don't underestimate childlike faith, simple faith that if your child doesn't really seem to process much or anything, if they can get Jesus, that's enough. It really is the think thief on the cross. We're given the thief on the cross. I think for this very reason. It's not something that we should lean on and go, okay, we'll just wait till somebody's almost dead. Not a problem. Hey, they can get saved. No, that's not the purpose of it. Nor is it to say that everybody who has a deathbed confession makes a genuine profession of faith. But it is to say it can happen, and it does happen, and it's a simple faith. He did not understand the hypostatic union. He did not understand the Trinity for that matter. He knew that Jesus Christ was God. He knew that. Now, that doesn't mean we have license to have a low degree in theology, but it does mean that if you've got a child who can't process much, they might just be able to process enough. So don't be disheartened. Keep singing songs to them, keep reading them the Bible, keep doing those things with hope, and know that God can save. If they have those enough cognitive abilities, God can save them. And if they don't have those abilities, he has saved them and he will take them safely home with him when they die. I think we can be more hopeful with this. And I understand why somebody might be a little gun shy. Hey, you're giving. You're getting a little loosey goosey with soteriology there, pal. Well, oh, I guess It's Lucy if it's not biblical, but I like to think that it is. Keep singing, keep praying. Keep talking to them about Jesus. Keep reading them stories. You have a loved one with Alzheimer's. Don't. Don't give up hope. Just don't give up hope. And I think the comfort that you can find. We don't. We don't want to just become universalists that say, well, everybody got saved. But I do think that you can, if you're not sure, rest in God's goodness and say, I just don't know. I didn't get to see any fruits of it. But I know that God is good, and I know that he will do the right thing with my incapacitated loved one, because I know the character and the nature of my loving God. This is Wretched Radio.

[Unknown]

Hey, thanks for listening to Wretched Radio today. You know that moment when you're scrolling through your news feed on social media and everything just feels upside down? Yeah. That's the culture we're living in right now. But you know what gets me excited? At Fortis Institute, we're not just watching on the sidelines. We've assembled a team of incredible voices who are diving deep into God's word every single day. I'm talking about Dr. John Kratz helping you integrate theology into real life. Or Dr. Adam Tyson, who is speaking truth into young men's hearts, or Pastor Brad Bigny transforming marriages from surviving to thriving.

But here's the thing.

While we're standing strong, that's what Fortis means. By the way. We need gospel partners who'll stand with us, people who will look at the culture and say, you know what? The church needs more than just encouragement. It needs equipping. We're not starting something new at Fortas. We're strengthening something new, vital. And so if you're ready to join us in this mission, if you're ready to help us equip believers with truth that transforms, then head over to fortisinstitute.org right now to find out how to become an ongoing monthly gospel partner. Wretched Amazing Grace, Amazing Gospel.

[Jimmy Hicks]

The life issue.

[Unknown]

We cannot disengage from the battle. And there is a way that you can win a life and rescue a soldier who's about to be executed through abortion. Preborn.org Wretched ultrasounds still save lives. These pregnancy centers that progressives would love to shut down or arrest people for praying in front of abortuaries, they're still doing excellent work, and babies are still being rescued. This is a tangible way to save a life. An ultrasound is $28 80% of the time. Mom chooses life. Want to engage in the battle? This ain't about politics. This is about saving those who are staggering to the slaughter period. Reborn.org wretched preborn.org wretched 25 years.

That's a quarter century of standing firm for biblical truth.

[Jimmy Hicks]

This is Wretched Radio.

[Unknown]

Through every cultural shift, every challenge, every opportunity to proclaim God's truth, you've been with us. And for that we're grateful. What started as Wretched radio has grown into something remarkable. Today, as part of Fortis Institute, we're reaching more believers than ever before. Our daily podcasts and radio shows, video content and biblical resources continue to strengthen local churches and equip the saints, just as we've done for 25 years. But none of this would be possible without faithful partners like you. You've helped us reach millions with the unchanging truth of God's word. As we celebrate this milestone, we're reminded that our mission remains the same. Serving the King of Kings by strengthening his church. Join [e-mail] as we continue this journey together for 25 more years of faithful.

Until tomorrow, go serve your king.

[Todd Friel]

Important dates in Christian history 1611 the authorized or King James translation of the Bible in the English language is published. 54 scholars worked for four years on the project. The King James version became the Bible of choice in the English speaking world for over 400 years. This is Wretched Radio with Todd Friel.

[Jimmy Hicks]

What's the matter now?

[Stu]

I got this. My ears are filling up. I got this sinus condition. It's a change in temperature. I always get it from air conditioning.

[Jimmy Hicks]

Maybe it'll go away.

[Stu]

No, it's all part of my allergies. I get them in the summer.

[Jimmy Hicks]

Only in the summer.

[Stu]

And in the winter, too. I get them all year long. Allergic to. And pillows and curtains and perfumes. Can you imagine that? Allergic to perfumes. I used to drive Francis crazy for a while. She couldn't wear anything except my aftershave lotion. I was impossible to live with.

[Jimmy Hicks]

Stop that, will you? What are you doing all that to say? The program that you're listening to could be worse.

[Stu]

Clear up my ears. You create a pressure inside your head. It opens up the Eustachian tube.

[Jimmy Hicks]

I'm laughing and crying simultaneously. This is Wretched Radio. Very grateful that you send stuff. Whatever you happen to think it is that is wretched. You can forward it to [e-mail] or if you would like to use the texter machine. 87-728-2237.

[Unknown]

All right. This question is from Dan.

[Jimmy Hicks]

Oh, sorry.

[Unknown]

That's okay. From Dan. Todd, I'm wondering if you could give some direction. Direction on what? The best way to divide up an inheritance. How would you divide up things when there are children that aren't followers of Jesus, that are lazy?

[Jimmy Hicks]

So this is the dad or mom perspective. Yeah.

[Unknown]

And we'll use the money in a way that would be contrary to how I would want that money used.

[Jimmy Hicks]

Source number one, Bible. What does it say about an inheritance? Well, it does actually speak about it. Number one. It would say that leaving an inheritance to your children is a perfectly good thing. In other words, if you have amassed any money that God has allowed you to stockpile, you have the right to give it to your kids. You've got biblical permission to do that. Having said that, I would also suggest that giving from the grave should, should priority wise, shouldn't change from when we're alive. In other words, we should be thinking kingdom advancement. What, what can I give that will forward the gospel, that will strengthen a local church, that will encourage ministries that try to share the gospel or strengthen the local church? So I think biblically you can leave an inheritance where it goes. I think kids and ministry are, I think, would be the leanings that I get from the Bible. But having said that, I do not see percentages. I, I do not see that, that you've got to give this percent or. I don't even see that giving the same amount to each child is biblically mandated. Because I think wisdom would indicate there are some kids where it would just be downright foolish to give them a lot of money. If you know that a kid is going to put that money right up their nose or use it for licentious living. Well, I don't think that that's wise. And I, some, there are some kids where I don't think it's wise to give them money without a trustee, where there isn't some sort of will so that it's in a trust so that they can't just grab the money and do dumb things. That's just being dumb. That's not being wise. So those are the principles that I see in the Bible. You have liberty to make these decisions as you see fit. Let me suggest this. Sit down and make these decisions when your frame of mind is not agitated and you're not annoyed with the kids because you'll, you'll make bad decisions if you do start there. But you're not done yet. Don't bring this to the lawyer's office. Or don't do the will thing that the advertised on TV that you can do on, on the Internet. Don't do that yet. Bring somebody into your life with whom you can be transparent. Probably somebody who has kids and maybe even grandkids to say, here's, here's what we're thinking about, you know, our kids or you don't. I'm just going to give you a brief summary of each one of the kids, and this is what they're like, and this is what we're thinking about with our will. What do you think? Now that requires. You don't have to give amounts. You don't have to. You don't have to say dollar amounts. You could say percentages. That's fine. I think you can be discreet with some of those details, but I think you could be transparent with them and how you're feeling about these things. And if they are godly people, they're going to be able to give you godly counsel and say, you know, I think you're a little heavy here. You're a little light there. And it sounds like when you talk about this kid, you got this issue going on. What would you think about this idea? What, what are you doing? You're doing life together with Christians. This is why church is supposed to be so much more than just showing up when you feel like it on Sunday for the show. These are the things that we should be doing together. How do you make these decisions? And this, this. There's. There's smart people in your congregation. You better believe there are. There are people. Oh, it's almost certain. Okay. I guess somebody in the congregation has to be the most successful, but most likely you're not it. And there's other people that are probably smarter. Maybe you're the guy, maybe you're the gal that's the most, the most educated somebody's got to be. But that's only one person. The rest of us could use other people's help. And to think that you can't tap into that wisdom because you don't need it. Oh, that. I would say that the Bible would say that would be being foolish. So I think you've got liberty, I think you've got principles, and I think you've got wisdom that you should tap into. And then I think the decision is totally up to you. 8, 7, 7, 2, 8, 2, 2, 3, 3, 7.

[Unknown]

All right. This is a text from Brad. Todd, since you're A talk show host. I know you'll have the right answer.

[Jimmy Hicks]

Got that right.

[Unknown]

Do you to reconcile with anyone we have wronged or have been wronged by when we get to heaven? Or will there be full reconciliation automatically?

[Jimmy Hicks]

I think that that's interesting to dive that deeply into it. I think it'll be all gone. I think in the twinkling of an eye everything is going to be made right. Does that mean, however, you can't have a human interaction? Could it not mean, let's just say maybe it was a sibling, loved one, your parent, whatever, you divided and it just. You never got around to reconciling and doing the business. Can I imagine with a sanctified imagination that you get to heaven and you both were saved? Maybe you didn't even know that that relative got saved and you see them now. Will you be reconciled? Yes, because everything will be made new, everything will have been made right. But that doesn't mean you can't experience that. What has been accomplished by Jesus when you see that individual. Can I see you embracing? Can I see you even crying tears of joy that Jesus has reconciled you, brought you into his kingdom and you're going to get to spend eternity together living in unity and harmony? Oh, absolutely I can. And I think there's going to be millions of those sweet transactions and occurrences. I don't think we have any idea what is in store for us in heaven. And I really think that this is a guiding principle. I don't think it should become the chief principle. I don't think that this should alter everything that we consider about heaven. But I do believe this single sentence is. Is really instructive. Heaven is going to be more familiar than you think. Why? Will there be anything less in heaven than there is on earth? Come on. When you get together with somebody with whom you've reconciled on this life, is it not sweet and profound and deep? Of course it is. Why wouldn't you get to enjoy that in heaven? Now? I don't think that's going to be an ongoing thing because you're not going to be sinning against each other and need it ever again. But being brought together for the first time in that joyful reunion, why wouldn't that be joyfully tear filled and wonderful? I see no reason why not. Why? Because I think heaven is more familiar. You're going to have a body, you're going to have your senses. Do you think God is going to take smell away from you? Do you think that God. I gave you music on earth, but no more music? No more music, no more. No more plays, no more jokes, no, no. No more thrill rides. Nope. I'm taking all of it away. Why would we think that it is going to be a new Earth, not a diminished earth. It's going to be a better earth. And I think that. I don't know that I could say every single thing that we experience in this life will be there, but I have no reason to believe that it wouldn't be there. Okay. I don't know if you noticed, but had a little bit of a. A head cold thing going on. And while I was sitting there in a drug induced stupor, I watched some YouTube, but not a lot. I just slept a ton. Just slept a ton. Tried to write a sermon, did. Did my, my duties here as much as I possibly could. But I admit one day I sat in a chair maybe for like 40 minutes, and I watched dog videos and just the reunions and just like when somebody there was this dude, he had cancer and they brought in this stray dog that immediately just like grabbed onto the guy, just saw him through it, loving him, snuggling, cuddling with him. God's going to take that away. Why would he do that? Why wouldn't heaven be populated with these things that we hold so dear? Heaven isn't going to be less. Heaven is going to be staggeringly more chiefly Jesus. Face to face. This is Wretched Radio.

[Unknown]

And it's now time for your daily Fortis News Breaker production of Fortis Institute. The Trump administration has withdrawn the US from the UN's LGBTI core group, which severs ties with an international coalition pushing sexual ideology worldwide since 2008. The breakup marks another step in the systematic decoupling link from WOKE institutions both domestically and internationally. Justin Trudeau's farewell gift to Canadians isn't lower taxes or freedom restoration. No, no, no, it's courtrooms packed with ideological allies. The outgoing prime minister has rammed through 20 judicial appointments to various Canadian courts just weeks before stepping down, part of a staggering 104 federal appointments since announcing his resignation in January. By suspending Parliament until March 24, Trudeau ensured none of these appointments can be challenged while his party scrambles to rebrand itself. Well, the great WOKE retreat continues with a new Leadership institute report revealing 17 states have already restricted DEI programs and public institutions, with another 12 states advancing similar legislation. Alabama, Florida, Texas and others have acted through laws, executive orders, and education boarding decisions to halt taxpayer funding of DEI departments, end discriminatory hiring practices, and stop mandatory indoctrination sessions which masquerade as trainings. Washington state Democrats have unveiled perhaps the most radical constitutional amendment yet, attempting to enshrine both unlimited abortion and gender transitions as fundamental rights in a single package. Despite the lead sponsor claiming the amendment doesn't specifically mention reassignment surgeries, the deliberately vague language about an individual's gender affirming care decisions would clearly be weaponized in court to strike down any parental consent or age restrictions. President Trump is fulfilling his promise to protect those who protect us, asking Congress on Tuesday to enact legislation mandating the death penalty for anyone who murders a law enforcement officer. With police Officer deaths surging 25% in 2024, according to the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund, Trump's executive order in January already directed the attorney general to seek the death penalty for every federal capital crime involving the murder of a law enforcement officer. It's a commitment that stands in very stark contrast to the previous administration's ambivalence toward rising crime and hostility toward law enforcement. Washington state's war on religious liberty revolution reached new heights as the state Senate passed legislation threatening to jail priests for nearly a year if they maintain the seal of confession, essentially forcing priests to choose between their spiritual obligations and imprisonment. And that has been today's Fortis News break. I'm Jimmy Hicks. If you want more, you can download Fortis or sign up to become a Fortis insider for exclusive daily content. You can do [e-mail], and don't forget, you can subscribe to Fortis News on your favorite podcast app to get these updates daily. And until tomorrow, go serve your king.

[Todd Friel]

Books of the Bible John was a disciple and close friend of Jesus. John's Gospel presents Jesus as the Word become flesh, God in human form. He also emphasizes belief in Christ as the only way truth and life. God writes so that we may believe that Jesus is the Christ, and by believing, we may have life in his name. Believe in Jesus today and have life everlasting. This is Wretched Radio with Todd Friel.

[Jimmy Hicks]

And speaking of once famous Hollywood actors, this is Wretched Radio. I don't think Jack Lemmon or Walter Matthau are still alive. They're no longer with us. And neither is Gene Hackman. I didn't know he still was alive. 94, 95 years old and he was found dead in his house, his wife dead in their house, the dog dead in the closet. Whatever. What? Jimmy, did you. Did they report what went. It wasn't carbon monoxide.

[Unknown]

Yeah, that's about all I've heard, that it wasn't that. And they didn't suspect foul play.

[Jimmy Hicks]

Yes. Whatever it is, it was bad because that just doesn't happen all by itself. And it's tragic. We can all affirm that. But it would also be a life lesson. If you're young and you think being a celebrity or being an influencer is the ticket to happiness, I got to tell you, it won't deliver. It will disappoint you mightily. Furthermore, seeking fame, ooh, that is a dangerous game. I think there is only one who is supposed to be famous. One, and that is the Lord Jesus Christ. In fact, simply because I'm working on it for the sermon on Sunday. Alvaretabiblechurch.org the the. The love for God that he commands us to have is to be total and complete. And then he follows up with, don't call somebody rabbi, nobody. Don't call anybody master or father. One. One leader, one master, one rabbi. That's it. God all goes to him. And when human beings deflect some of that and take it for themselves, oof, oof. We're not meant for that. You are not meant to be adulated. Only God is. So be careful before you go about the business of seeking fame. It is fraught with peril and danger. It doesn't mean that a Christian can't become a celebrity. I'm just saying it ain't easy. And that there are very unusual challenges that go with that role. And you've got to be so careful how you deflect the adulation and you give it to God himself. Otherwise, I gotta tell you, we've. How many celebrities have ended their lives with a talk about, with a sigh, with a complete whimper, with just complete. Just destroyed life because of fame? Maybe that's a lesson that we can learn from the life of Gene Hackman. Celebrity. Watch what you ask for. 877-28-22337. If you got yourself anything you would like to express with or without Madonna in the background. And you can also Send stuff to.

[Unknown]

Ideaetched.Org this is a text from Anonymous.

Todd God has graciously gifted me with repentance from a decade and a half of pornography and recently confessing my sin to my wife of seven years. We are working through the fallout of this in which she has been gracious beyond comprehension. My question is, what does biblical leadership look like in this season? How do I lead my wife when I have been the source of such immense pain?

[Jimmy Hicks]

Another life lesson, young man. Stop watching porn now. Just be done with it. Every time you put it on Your screen. You're putting a gun to your head. You're just wrecking your life. You're destroying the lives of others. Your behavior is very displeasing to your God. And you are not being the man that you could be, just be done with it. I don't think that I'd have to plead with you to. Hey, don't, don't, don't drink that arsenic, please. No, come on, man. Oh, come on. Just. Hey. Well, I understand that you just drink a little arsenic once in a while, but don't drink that much arsenic. That would just be ludicrous. And pornography is probably worse than that. Poison. It is poison. It's deadly. Stop it. And by the way, just a bit of a teaser coming up this fall. This is on track. I wrote a book called Play the Man about this subject. The expulsive power of new affections that are needed to drive pornography out. And we're going to be giving it away. So get ready. We're going to be doing another big giveaway. It's going to be a little bit different this time. We're going to be creating little cards like postcard size with something catchy, with a QR code that takes them to play the man so that they can just read it right there. And we want to give away hundreds of thousands of these cards. So be ready for that this fall when the kids return to the campus, because I think they're in the South. They're like done in March, aren't they? Just ridiculously early. Nevertheless, that's coming up because porn is such a pervasive problem. Now, to the fellow who admitted it to his wife, first thing I would do, if you want to be a man, thank her. Thank her for her graciousness. Be effusive. Be unrelentingly grateful that she is treating you with mercy and grace because you have genuinely scalded her. You, you, you, you think about the devastation when somebody would get a vat of hot oil poured on them. That's what you did to your wife. And as you claim, she's being gracious beyond imagination. That's where I would start. I would make. I would go on a campaign of gratitude that would. That would show her how wonderful I think she is and how Christlike I think that she is. Being number two, you're going to have to start earning trust. And you've got to know it's not going to be immediate. You got to know that. And so I would start as a man doing everything to be transparent. Everything and by the way, part of that would be I would get off my phone so fast, I wouldn't use, like. Unless she's, like, standing right there. I want to show it until she releases the reins. Because the reins are in her hands until she lightens up. You just. You should. Here's my phone. Honey, I'm home. Here it is. Please. If you want to check it out. Here, dear. This is what I'm gonna do. Every night I come home. My phone, it's. It's all yours. My computer. Here's the password. It's all yours. If you want to bring it to a shop and have some technique, go through it because you think that I might be hiding stuff, I will not feel bad. You have every right to do that. So I would be transparent and I would be aggressive about that until she goes, okay, enough already. Because you've got to show yourself to be a new and a changed man. Third, start being godly. Don't just stop looking at porn. Start cherishing her. And by the way, if the bedroom is a little bit chilly, too bad. You better cope with it because you need to warm her up. And I would work on that. I would have zero expectation of intimacy for a rather generous season. Let her make those calls. But play the man and act like the guy that she would be interested in being intimate with. Fourth, be a spiritual leader. Now, she might find it a little off putting if you start just, hey, we're going to start doing Bible stuff. We're going to start. You start doing them. Invite her to join. But if she doesn't, you keep doing. Show it. Just show it. And she will start to get the idea. I don't know how long it's going to take. Which, by the way, might be number five. You take it for as long as she needs to. Give it. You just let her take her time. And should she ever get upset with you because you have. You did something, you said something, whatever, or tough, take it, take it. Man up, play the man. Be a big boy. You've earned it. It's okay. She can. She. She. She can feel hurt for as long as she needs to. And it's your job to follow those aforementioned five steps and every other thing that you can do to demonstrate. Honey, I am going to be a man that is worthy of your affection and trust. Go to church, pray more. Start reading your Bible more. Don't do it for show, like a Pharisee, but do it. That's what you're supposed to be doing anyway. And then she's going to see with time, whatever, whatever number of days, weeks, months, years that takes, she's going to see a different man and she will begin to follow happily, cheerfully and increasingly confidently play the man. 87728. Would you add anything to that, Jimmy?

[Unknown]

Yeah, I think the only thing that I would add to that would be I believe you both are going to have to have some help walking through it. So I would just Recommend going to biblicalcounseling.com and try to look for a biblical counselor in your area.

[Jimmy Hicks]

You know what? Maybe I don't know that I would say that it is necessary. I say it could be. Depends on how bad the devastation and the enslavement was, but I don't know that. Does everybody need to go to a biblical counselor?

[Unknown]

No, I don't think everybody needs to. I'm just saying in this situation to help them both walk through the aftermath and how to walk through it biblically. I think, I think it could be helpful.

[Jimmy Hicks]

Oh, it could. If you like, if things are. I, I would say if things are shattered. Yeah, you, you're, you're going to need some help. Just based on the very little information we have from this particular email. She's responding well. So I, I would say this. So I, I think this is something that you can encourage. And honey, please, if you need somebody, another woman to walk alongside you with this and disclose those, those details in confidence because you know, we don't need that being spread, please do, please. It won't, it won't offend me. So if you need to pick a night, you go out to lunch with this woman at the church who is God, then I would encourage you to do that. But I would, I would say this. Be careful that you don't start correcting and fixing her. That's not your job and it will not be received well. Let a godly woman in your church play that role. And if necessary, Jimmy, I would. Amen that. Get biblicalcounseling.com if you cannot walk forward together, then that is precisely what biblical counseling is for. This is wretched radio.

[Unknown]

You might not see them, but the world keeps handing you chains. Chains of fear, chains of people pleasing, chains of self love disguised as confidence. It tells you that your worth is found in self esteem, that your security is found in human approval, and that your strength is found in emotional indulgence or cold hard stoicism. It's all a trap. And on the better way with Libby Glossin. She's cutting through the lies. This isn't just another self help pep talk. Never cheesy, never shallow, just powerful, practical biblical truth that sets women free. This is intelligent talk radio for women. Because real freedom doesn't come from looking inside yourself. It comes from looking up to Christ. If you're ready to ditch the world's empty solutions for something real, it's time for the Better Way with Libby Glossin. Because in a world full of compromise, there indeed is a better way.

Perhaps you've been wondering, is there a Christian university that isn't woke or that hasn't compromised on important biblical doctrines like, you know, the Age of the Earth?

[Jimmy Hicks]

There is.

[Unknown]

It's the Master's University in Southern California. Beautiful campus. All of the athletics and activities that you've come to expect from universities. But it's more than that. The academic programs are most excellent. Preparing students for the future. The Washington Post just said number six for preparing students for the real world. All that plus the Master's University isn't woke and it is thoroughly biblical. Would you like to learn more? I encourage you to visit the Master's University at Masters. Edu Wretched Masters.

[Jimmy Hicks]

Edu Wretch Wretched.

[Unknown]

Ever feel like you're.

Watching the culture shift beneath your feet? You're not alone, and you're not without allies either. At Fortis Institute, we've assembled a powerhouse team of biblical voices to help you navigate these challenging times. From Tim Challis to Brad Bigny to Adam Tyson and Greg Gifford, our fellows deliver daily content that transforms confusion into clarity. Whether you're tackling marriage challenges, parenting questions, or personal growth, Fortis Institute is ready with biblically grounded wisdom. We're not just offering commentary. We're providing a comprehensive toolkit for living boldly in an increasingly complex world. Through our daily podcasts and video content and live events, we're equipping believers to stand firm without wavering. And if you want to be part of something bigger, join the Fortis community today. Visit fortisinstitute.org and discover why. Thousands are turning to Fortis Institute as their trusted source for biblical wisdom. Because when the world seems to be turning upside down, we remain steadfast. It's Fortas Institute, where we're standing firm and standing together.

[Todd Friel]

Titles of Christ in the Bible, Jesus is given many titles that teach us about who he is and what he has done. Jesus is called the Physician. Jesus healed many physical ailments during his ministry on Earth. When he comes again, he will put an end to death and disease and give us spiritual bodies to last for eternity. This is Wretched Radio with Todd Friel.

[Jimmy Hicks]

So you've got the gift of hospitality, do you? This is wretched. Am I sounding better? I feel like I'm sounding better to yourself. You're such a Barnab is wretched radio. If you have got the gift of hospitality and you happen to have the gift of living somewhere near Alpharetta, Georgia, we sure could use your help. Dr. Jason Lyle, he's one of our foris fellows. He's going to be in town doing an event. Irrefutable proof of creation. You can register. It is free. It is an in studio event. So you'll come to the wretched studios. We're going to have chairs set up. We've got some hospitality stuff that hopefully somebody will set up and you will enjoy 10 mini lectures from Dr. Jason Lyle. It's two days, Friday and Saturday. You can attend one or both, whatever your schedule allows. That's March 21st and 22nd. Register by going to fortisinstitute.org creation if and you happen to be one who loves practicing hospitality and you are available on those days. Oh, we sure could use your help with hospitality. Just taking care of all of our guests. We like to be good hosts and we just need help. So if any, you're willing to lend that sort of help and be a part of it. Yeah, you'll get to watch Jason too, but you'll just help with making sure that everybody's got water, that there's snacks and nibbles and that just if anybody has a problem with the bathroom, whatever. We just want to take care of people well and we could use your help. Simply send an email to [e-mail] [e-mail] looking forward to that time with Jason. Don't Forget coming up March 13, free webinar with Tim Challies on grief. I'm just. Jimmy, are you just feeling like you and I are walking in some tall cotton this that. We got a lot of guys here that are just doing such outstanding stuff and Jason is doing such a bang up job leading it.

[Unknown]

Oh yeah.

[Jimmy Hicks]

Just to be a part of all of this. Very, very exciting. And just as an aside, thank you for your support. We're just, we're just super grateful. In fact, as long as I brought that up. Coming up in about a month, I think we're going to be launching a campaign. We've got an initiative that is really aggressive and it's going to find a lot of people that could use a lot of resources and we're going to be Inviting you to partner with us. We're going to have a match campaign, the whole shebang. So perhaps you could join us in our effort to just create as much good stuff as we can and get it into the hands as many people as we can for F R E E. Speaking of free, it doesn't cost you anything to text wretched stuff to. 877-282-2337.

[Unknown]

All right. This is from Brandon Todd. I have received threats of termination from my job for wearing an evangelistic button from Living Waters that says, is there life after death?

[Jimmy Hicks]

Right.

[Unknown]

Plot twist. Both my boss and his wife were professing Christians. I feel betrayed and slightly confused. I want to wear it anyway, even if I'm fired for it. You have thoughts on this?

[Jimmy Hicks]

Well, this is. This is hard for the heart that desires for people to be saved. I know that my take on this is going to maybe kind of go down a little bit rough, but here's my suggestion. You can keep the pin on and get fired, but you can't be mad at them for that because they have every right to do that. But I believe that as a Christian, you're called to be a good employee. And when you are being paid to do a job, in a sense for those eight hours, they own you. And they can have whatever rules they choose to have. And if that rule is, we don't want you wearing that pin, I do not believe you're sinning by. By being obedient. In fact, I think you're being obedient now. Does that mean it's not disappointing? Does that mean that you aren't hurt by that? Does that mean that those people who run the place that claim to be Christians, that they aren't? Possibly. Not necessarily, but possibly sinning, sure, all of those emotions can be there. But I think we're called to be emotional, obedient employees. And when we are on somebody else's dime, when we're on the clock, we need to obey those. We need to super obey those rules. And I don't believe that your conscience should be besmirched by it. Take your evangelistic zeal and use it off the clock. You can still talk about the. You know, you could, you can, you can even ask them now. I think legally you can talk about anything you want to during break time and lunchtime and certainly after hours because they don't own you at time. But I would still ask. Hey, bosses, I, I sure appreciate. I, I'm sure that you've got reasons for this, and I will respect and honor those. So I'm going to be taking off those pin. This pin. But I would like to talk about these things when I'm not on the clock, meaning at break and lunchtime. Are you okay with that? And if they say yes, Amen. If they say no, do I think that that's legal? I don't think it is, but I'm not a lawyer. But I would still honor that. Because you want to be a good, submissive, hardworking employee. And I don't think God is going to be upset with you because you're being obedient. Then use your time when it is yours, to share the gospel with as many people you can, including fellow employees. This is a conscience issue. I get that. And this can be hard. I understand that. And I would love to spend more time with you if necessary, because I would never want you to override your conscience. That's a dangerous thing. But I would really try to encourage you. You know, I would be running to talking about the emphasis that Peter has in first Peter about being a good slave. You got a bad man, be a good slave. Why? Because there's stuff at stake here. There's bigger things at play. God is doing bigger moves than just what's happening at the plant. He's building his kingdom, and so he commands me. Here's your role in that. You be a good employee. You submit to those rotten bodies. You just be a super server so that they ask about the reason for the hope that lies within you. And that could include your professing Christian bosses. Or they might feel convicted by it. They might have a change of heart. But as you go, my encouragement would be have a cleansed conscience by knowing you're not sinning by being a good, obedient employee. 8. 7. 7. 2. 8. 2, 2, 3. 3. 7.

[Unknown]

All right. This is from Douglas Todd. Why doesn't God reveal himself publicly?

[Jimmy Hicks]

That's it. That's the whole shebang, right? Why doesn't God show himself publicly? Well, first of all, I would say he did. He has in the person of Jesus Christ, and we have a written record of it. Please note this. A public appearance does not guarantee conversion. I mean, we have that historical record. Look at the number of people that Jesus Christ preached to. Look at the number of people that Jesus healed. How many people were following Jesus when he was crucified and resurrected? That I think the. The good guess would be about 500. 500. I am certain he healed more than 500 people. Why didn't they believe in him? Because miracles don't save. A personal appearance from God does not guarantee salvation. It's a heart issue. And so to the person that you might be witnessing to, to say, hey, why doesn't God present himself? Here's what you can tell them. If God presented himself to you right now, it's not going to change your heart. It's, it's, it's. Unless, of course, he just terrified you into submission and you fell to your knees, which you would, by the way. Actually you die if you saw God. But the point is, you're still going to hate him. You need to be born again from above. That's what needs to happen. And we have a perfect record of our perfect Savior who accomplished everything so that we can be reconciled to God. And so you can encourage the person that you're working to. You know, an appearance from God isn't going to save you. Besides, he already appeared. And here's the testimony right here, here's the eyewitness testimony that, that is uncorrupted and that is so totally substantiated by its internal testimony that you cannot deny its veracity. You've got everything you need. But the problem is not an appearance from God, a miracle from God, it's your heart. So witness to him and preach the law and the gospel. We have something better than a transfiguration, said Peter. We have the word of God, and that's why we use it when we witness. 877-282-2337.

[Unknown]

All right, from Anonymous. Todd, if I were to find a book from another religion like the Book of Mormon in a place like a hotel or nursing home, would it be right for me to throw it away to prevent someone else from reading heretical material?

[Jimmy Hicks]

I. Well, there's another one. I feel we all want to do that. Okay, I have done that. I'll be honest. I've done that with the Book of Mormon. No tell thing, but maybe I'm just giving myself a pass. But I, I think that that's why they put them. They want people to take them. Well, I took them. What I did with them, that's up to me. But do I believe that you should go about the business of destroying somebody's property? I, I don't, I don't know that we're given permission to do that. That could, that could lead to all kinds of vigilantism. You know, hey, I'm driving by a Hindu temple. Can I torch it? I mean, it's bad, right? So can I destroy it? You'd go, well, no. And so I think I would lean toward, as much as you'd like to ditch it, and maybe in some circumstances you might be able to justify it. I would say as a principle and a rule, we obey the law, we don't destroy other people's property, and we have more confidence in our Bible. Don't worry. The Book of Mormon. God is not intimidated or threatened by it. It's a horrible book, but the kingdom will not crumble because there's another copy sitting in a hotel room. Until tomorrow. Go serve your king.