Challenging Conversations

How many times have you read the nativity story? Have you ever compared Matthew's birth account with Luke chapter 2? If so, you may have noticed some apparent contradictions! But is that really the case? As we approach the Christmas season, let's examine the Gospels' nativity narratives and determine whether they genuinely contradict or complement each other. 

This week marks a pivotal moment in history as the Assad regime in Syria, ruling for over five decades, crumbles under rebellion. The streets of Damascus are alive with thousands of Syrians celebrating the end of dictatorship and embracing a new chapter. However, what does the regime's fall mean for the terrorist groups vying for control?

Today, we're diving into Daystar's shocking and public fallout. It's a heartbreaking clash between Joni Lamb, the network's leader, her son Jonathan, and his wife Suzy. This isn't just a family dispute — it's an explosive situation playing out on one of the largest stages in Christian ministry, raising serious questions about leadership, accountability, and integrity.

Today, we are going to get into a highly contentious and debated topic: gender-affirming surgeries and hormone blockers for minors. What are your views on these medical interventions? Are they vital for the well-being of young people, or do they raise significant ethical concerns and do irreversible damage to young people? In this episode, Jason sheds light on the growing industry that is mutilating minors after convincing them of the need to take hormone therapy and undergo radical and irreversible surgery. If you are a parent or grandparent, you need to listen to this episode so you know what's really going on.

Do you think Trump's re-election is good or bad for America? Currently, our nation is grappling with rising inflation, increasing crime rates, drug addiction, worsening economic conditions affecting many Americans, and ongoing conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East that show no signs of resolution. What will Trump do as president to fix these problems that are destroying our country? In this episode, Jason examines how Trump won the presidential election and highlights specific policies many Americans expect the Trump administration to implement to restore our country, creating a brighter future for our families.

William Penn famously said, “Those people who will not be governed by God will be ruled by tyrants.” Are we witnessing this happening in our country today? Are more Americans, perhaps unknowingly, choosing to surrender their freedoms and loyalty to the elites on the far Left who seek to undermine our Republic? America is undoubtedly facing one of the most challenging elections in its history that could determine its future. In this episode, Jason explores the significance of our freedoms, the challenges we confront, and our critical role in protecting the values that define our nation.

Immigration has emerged as a pressing concern for Americans, not just in this presidential election but for our country as a whole. With the surge in illegal immigration, the escalating drug crisis, and rising violence, many Americans feel overwhelmed and uncertain about the future of our nation. Our southern border has become a significant focal point in these discussions. In this episode, we explore what the Bible says about immigration, clarify misconceptions, and examine misleading terms. We'll also discuss revealing statistics on illegal crossings and propose effective solutions that benefit the U.S. while supporting needy immigrants.

What are your thoughts on Islam? Do you have any friends who are Muslim? If so, how do you discuss faith and religion with them? In this episode, Jason welcomes Christian apologist Alan Shlemon from Stand to Reason. With over 20 years of experience studying Islam, training believers, and traveling to the Middle East to foster understanding, Alan will guide us in exploring the appeal of Islam, some of its core beliefs, and what Muslims think about Jesus and Christianity.

In this episode, Jason Jimenez explores the serious effects of Hurricane Helene and Milton, exposing vulnerabilities in our infrastructure, FEMA's inadequate emergency response, and the recovery initiatives that are saving lives. This episode equips you with the insights and resources essential for turning devastation into meaningful actions and support for affected individuals. Let us continue to pray and step up to care for the millions of Americans impacted by these colossal hurricanes.

Christians often feel overwhelmed when leaders they trust and rely on for spiritual guidance disappoint them. The shock of betrayal resonates deeply, highlighting a troubling pattern of persistent wrongdoing, ranging from sexual misconduct to financial dishonesty and abuses of power. In this episode, Jason addresses the recent failures of high-profile pastors in Texas. He speaks with humility, stressing the importance of upholding the standards of God's Word and holding our spiritual leaders accountable, as they will ultimately answer to God.

Do you ever wonder if some of the people you spend time with might be narcissists? Dealing with narcissism can be really tough and draining, not only for the person involved but also for those around them. Narcissists often act in ways that are puzzling, manipulative, and deeply hurtful to those close to them. Recognizing their behaviors is crucial in identifying when you're in a toxic relationship. In this episode, we'll help you spot narcissistic behavior, understand how it affects your interactions, and, most importantly, guide how to confront and establish boundaries with the narcissists in your life using biblical principles, all while maintaining love and grace.

Are you finding it challenging to have political conversations with your loved ones? In our currently divided society, discussing politics can be difficult, especially for Christians and families. The topics can be contentious, emotions can escalate, and achieving mutual understanding may seem unattainable. Today, we are pleased to welcome Gabe Lyons, the president of ThinQ, who will provide effective strategies for having calm and constructive political conversations that can benefit everyone involved, especially your family.

Why was there a second assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump's life? Who would go to such extremes, and what does this reveal about the current state of our country? The topic for today's "Challenging Conversations" episode is the growing threat that requires understanding and attention for the protection of our values, leaders, and nation.

When did you last have a real, meaningful conversation with a family member or coworker? In this episode, Jason Jimenez is joined by Dr. Sean McDowell to discuss strategies for bridging the gap created by cancel culture and for knowing when and how to engage with individuals who may strongly oppose the Christian faith.

We live in a time when the line between ministry and business has become increasingly blurred. From lavish lifestyles to questionable financial practices, many ask, "Is this what Jesus intended when He called us to serve?" In this episode, we will discuss troubling concerns, their impact on the church's influence, what the Bible teaches about honest ministry, and how we can pray for churches and their leaders to embrace true biblical servanthood.

For centuries, this ancient linen cloth, bearing the enigmatic image of a man who appears to have suffered the agonies of crucifixion, has captivated believers and skeptics alike. Is it the actual burial shroud of Jesus Christ or a remarkable medieval forgery? In this episode, we'll hear from several experts who have used the latest in scientific technology to examine the Shroud, offering insights that could bring us closer than ever to understanding its true origin.

As violence erupts and tensions escalate in the Middle East, many Christians are finding it hard to stand with Israel. To help us unpack the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, Dr. Jeff Myers, president of Summit Ministries, will share some chilling statistics highlighting the gravity of the situation with Israel, while bringing much-needed hope and answers for Christians seeking clarity and direction.

Did you know that the International Olympic Committee (IOC) has a category they refer to as "sex variation"? Do you know what that even means? As the IOC moves forward with policies intended to promote inclusivity, some are expressing concerns about the safety, fairness, and long-term viability of these decisions for female athletes. In this episode, Jason Jimenez exposes what is really taking place with the progressive agenda of the IOC to undermine the dignity and equality of males and females.

For decades, cold-case homicide detective J. Warner Wallace meticulously investigated the dark corners of humanity, seeking the truth behind deaths and murders. In his relentless pursuit of leads, he not only uncovered the facts of each case, but also gained deep insights into human nature, justice, and the fundamental aspects of human identity and existence. But what can we possibly learn from a crime scene, a fugitive, or a crook? In the latest episode, J. Warner Wallace offers profound insights gleaned from his experience in law enforcement, which led him to reexamine his beliefs in God, truth, and humility.

Vice President Kamala Harris is now the presumptive Democratic nominee for President of the United States, squaring off against Donald Trump in the upcoming election. What does Mrs. Harris signify for the future of our nation, especially for Christians and those who champion conservative values? In this episode, Jason evaluates Mrs. Harris's challenges and concerns for those of us who treasure pro-life principles, advocate for limited government, and stand for secure borders.

Atheism has seen steady growth, particularly in the West, with influential figures such as Richard Dawkins and Sam Harris shaping public opinion towards naturalism. However, there are signs of change on the horizon. People from diverse backgrounds are rediscovering spirituality and faith, with a resurgence of belief in God. Justin Brierley joins the podcast to discuss the compelling details surrounding this revival of faith.

We live in a time when politics in America are becoming more violent by the day, and it is incumbent upon each one of us to pray for our elected officials and work toward uniting Americans around the principles that have built and made our nation so great. Today, Jason Jimenez unpacks the incredible story of how God intervened to prevent a would-be assassin from killing former President Donald J. Trump.

Have you ever wondered about life's big questions? Why are we here? What's the point of our lives? Is there some higher power that gives meaning to our existence? These timeless questions have been at the center of human thinking for ages. In this thought-provoking episode, Jason Jimenez and Dr. Phil Fernandes delve into the compelling evidence for the existence of God. They engage in a deep discussion about how the concept of God brings profound clarity, reason, and meaning to our existence and everyday lives.

Today, we're discussing a topic that many parents and grandparents in the Christian community are dealing with—the challenges that can come up when a child or grandchild comes out as LGBT. This revelation can be really tough for families, causing a lot of complex emotions like confusion and heartache. How can we stand by our beliefs while unconditionally loving our LGBT children? Jason discusses practical ways to navigate these tough conversations with empathy and honesty.

There's a big debate about whether God makes people LGBTQ. Some folks think being LGBTQ is part of God's plan and should be accepted, but others, especially in the Christian community, disagree. They believe being LGBTQ isn't what God intended and is a result of a fallen world. In this episode, Jason Jimenez pushes back respectfully on the idea that God makes people LGBTQ by offering a Christian perspective rooted in the clear and unchanged Word of God.

The idea that Jesus did not specifically address homosexuality and therefore must have been accepting of it is a common argument in LGBT-affirming circles. This argument is known as the "silent argument." In this episode, Jason Jimenez discusses the flawed reasoning behind this argument and presents a biblically grounded case for Jesus' teachings on marriage, sexuality, and sin.

In today's episode, we're exploring the phrase "Love is Love," which is increasingly prominent in our culture. What does "Love is Love" really mean, and how should Christians think about it? Are we called to support what this mantra stands for, or is there a different perspective we should consider? Let's dive into this challenging conversation and unpack what the Bible says about love and relationships, and discuss how we can respond with both truth and grace.

The protests on college campuses over the Hamas-Israel war are garnering significant attention. However, with classes being canceled, buildings being occupied, and reports of fireworks being fired at Jewish people on campus, it raises the question: to what extent are these college students exercising their First Amendment rights?

In the current case involving former President Trump, Judge Juan Merchan has used his federal bench on several occasions to undermine the constitutional rights of a former president, from issuing gag orders to not recusing himself from the case. This is a very serious threat to Americans. We find ourselves in a time where, as a free nation, we are allowing judges to revoke people's rights simply because they can. In this episode, Jason Jimenez uncovers and addresses various abuses of power within our judicial system and provides you with intel on action steps to eliminate these injustices.

Have you ever experienced unbearable pain and cried out to God, only to be met with a deafening silence? Today's episode of Challenging Conversations will focus on strengthening our trust in God, embracing His unwavering comfort, and reinforcing the belief that even amidst pain, will see us through it. Jason Jimenez is joined by author Amber Albee Swenson to discuss her book "You Can Trust God Even When Life Hurts."

It is no secret that many Christians are struggling with mental health challenges such as anxiety and depression. These problems can be extremely isolating, leaving individuals feeling disconnected from their faith and the support of their community. Today, Jason has a conversation with JoAnna Dias, a licensed clinical psychologist who provides biblical guidance that is certain to bring hope and assistance to Christians who are dealing with anxiety and depression.

Did you know that the Book of Daniel mentions the presence of a powerful demon that has been reigning over Iran for thousands of years? This revelation has profound implications for our understanding of spiritual warfare. As we pray for Jews and Arabs to accept Jesus as their Savior, it becomes crucial for us to delve deeper into this topic.

Iran, without warning, aggressively launched over 300 ballistic missiles into Israel without provocation. After days of contemplation, Israel decided to retaliate against Iran's lethal aggression by striking key targets in the Isfahan region. Are there any hints in Scripture about the escalation between Israel and Iran, and how will it affect the world as we know it?

With the power to entertain, educate, and connect, media has undeniably become an integral part of our children's lives. The constant barrage of notifications, comparison culture, and addictive nature of social media can lead to feelings of inadequacy, anxiety, and even depression. If you're struggling to find ways to reduce device usage in your home, welcome to this episode of Challenging Conversations. Today, we'll be exploring five devastating ways in which media is shaping our children and what you can do to reverse the trend.

Throughout history, science and religion have often been framed as adversaries locked in an enduring conflict. This portrayal implies that believing in God necessitates a rejection of rational thinking, setting it against the principles of scientific inquiry. Is that really true? Is the Christian faith simply blind allegiance to what we cannot know? In this episode, we will explore how faith and science can coexist and even enhance each other despite operating in distinct realms.

Are you aware that there is a firestorm of controversy going around the internet saying the use of a certain phrase is considered antisemitic? In this episode of Challenging Conversations, we will explore a contentious issue that is making headlines and causing divisions across the nation. It concerns the phrase, “Christ is king.”However, we must ask ourselves if the controversy surrounding "Christ is King” is truly about the words themselves or if there are deeper issues at play.

Today's episode will address a relevant and sometimes troubling issue in the church – deconstructing one's faith. We will explore what deconstruction truly means and how Christians can navigate this journey while growing in their faith. Our special guests for this episode are Alisa Childers and Tim Barnett, two voices who bring insight and wisdom to this problematic and often disturbing topic of deconstruction. 

There are times when life throws challenges at us, leaving us feeling down, anxious, or stuck. As believers, these struggles can get intertwined with our faith. We often hear messages of joy and victory, but what happens when our reality feels more like isolated darkness and we have no motivation todo anything? This raises an important question: Can a Christian suffer from depression or another mental illness and still be considered a Christian?

Today, we're diving deep into a topic that's both intriguing and vital to our democracy: Do states have the power under the Constitution to prevent anyone from running for President? It's a question that strikes at the heart of our electoral system and the rights of the American people to choose their leader. Find out why this matters to you and our way of life as a free society.Click here to order Jason's New Book: Parenting Gen Z: Guiding Your Child through a Hostile CultureJason Jimenez on Social MediaFollow @JasonPJimenez on TwitterFollow @JasonPJiminez on InstagramSubscribe to Jason Jimenez on YouTubeAdditional ResourcesChallenging Conversations book on AmazonStand Strong Ministries WebsiteStand Strong Ministries on Facebook

Critical thinking plays a crucial role in understanding and engaging with the world around us, yet it seems that Christians often find themselves ill-equipped when it comes to tackling these difficult conversations. But why is this the case? Is it because of a lack of education or exposure to progressive and inclusive perspectives? Or is there something deeper at play? In this episode, John Stonestreet, president of Colson Center and world-class Christian thinker answers some of the top issues affecting Christians today—gender ideology, bodily autonomy, and LGBT weddings.Click here to order Jason's New Book: Parenting Gen Z: Guiding Your Child through a Hostile CultureJason Jimenez on Social MediaFollow @JasonPJimenez on TwitterFollow @JasonPJiminez on InstagramSubscribe to Jason Jimenez on YouTubeAdditional ResourcesChallenging Conversations book on AmazonStand Strong Ministries WebsiteStand Strong Ministries on Facebook

We will be discussing a long-standing theological debate regarding God's sovereignty and human free will. This topic has been around for ages and is more challenging than most, as the more we attempt to comprehend it, the more questions arise. If God already knows everything and has a plan for everything, how can we truly be free? Does this imply that we are mere glorified robots following a predetermined script?Click here to order Jason's New Book: Parenting Gen Z: Guiding Your Child through a Hostile CultureJason Jimenez on Social MediaFollow @JasonPJimenez on TwitterFollow @JasonPJiminez on InstagramSubscribe to Jason Jimenez on YouTubeAdditional ResourcesChallenging Conversations book on AmazonStand Strong Ministries WebsiteStand Strong Ministries on Facebook

In a time when our society finds itself deeply divided on the issue of abortion, it is more important than ever to approach this subject with respect and well-reasoned arguments. In this episode, Jason and Scott Klusendorf, author of “The Case for Life,” work through many of the immense challenges that come with the pro-life and abortion debate.Click here to order Jason's New Book: Parenting Gen Z: Guiding Your Child through a Hostile CultureJason Jimenez on Social MediaFollow @JasonPJimenez on TwitterFollow @JasonPJiminez on InstagramSubscribe to Jason Jimenez on YouTubeAdditional ResourcesChallenging Conversations book on AmazonStand Strong Ministries WebsiteStand Strong Ministries on Facebook

Is using profanity simply a matter of cultural taboo, or is it considered a sin? There are Christians who hold the belief that using profanity is not inherently wrong. Tune in and be prepared to challenge your assumptions about what it means to communicate as a Christian in today's world.Click here to order Jason's New Book: Parenting Gen Z: Guiding Your Child through a Hostile CultureJason Jimenez on Social MediaFollow @JasonPJimenez on TwitterFollow @JasonPJiminez on InstagramSubscribe to Jason Jimenez on YouTubeAdditional ResourcesChallenging Conversations book on AmazonStand Strong Ministries WebsiteStand Strong Ministries on Facebook

Have you ever wondered if the Bible mandates women to wear head coverings? The answer lies in the often-debated passage of 1 Corinthians 11, which discusses head coverings and leadership. In this episode, Jason Jimenez provides a thoughtful interpretation of 1 Corinthians 11:2-6. He examines the historical context during Paul's time while emphasizing key principles about how husbands and wives should behave within their marital and church communities.Click here to order Jason's New Book: Parenting Gen Z: Guiding Your Child through a Hostile CultureJason Jimenez on Social MediaFollow @JasonPJimenez on TwitterFollow @JasonPJiminez on InstagramSubscribe to Jason Jimenez on YouTubeAdditional ResourcesChallenging Conversations book on AmazonStand Strong Ministries WebsiteStand Strong Ministries on Facebook

What would you do if your friend or loved one invited you to their same-sex wedding? Do you go or say no? In this episode, Jason shares four foundational biblical beliefs that can help in addressing this dilemma.Click here to order Jason's New Book: Parenting Gen Z: Guiding Your Child through a Hostile CultureJason Jimenez on Social MediaFollow @JasonPJimenez on TwitterFollow @JasonPJiminez on InstagramSubscribe to Jason Jimenez on YouTubeAdditional ResourcesChallenging Conversations book on AmazonStand Strong Ministries WebsiteStand Strong Ministries on Facebook

Why are so many churches compromising in the teaching of God's Word and what can we do about it? In this episode, Jason calls out three areas of moral decline happening in our churches today and speaks to how God's people can combat against them.Click here to order Jason's New Book: Parenting Gen Z: Guiding Your Child through a Hostile CultureJason Jimenez on Social MediaFollow @JasonPJimenez on TwitterFollow @JasonPJiminez on InstagramSubscribe to Jason Jimenez on YouTubeAdditional ResourcesChallenging Conversations book on AmazonStand Strong Ministries WebsiteStand Strong Ministries on Facebook

Do you have a loved one who claims to be a Christian yet is sleeping around? In this episode, Jason gives a straightforward take on the sexual ethic clearly laid out in the Bible, and presents three tactics you can use to help Christians find grace and forgiveness in Jesus.Click here to order Jason's New Book: Parenting Gen Z: Guiding Your Child through a Hostile CultureJason Jimenez on Social MediaFollow @JasonPJimenez on TwitterFollow @JasonPJiminez on InstagramSubscribe to Jason Jimenez on YouTubeAdditional ResourcesChallenging Conversations book on AmazonStand Strong Ministries WebsiteStand Strong Ministries on Facebook

In this episode, Jason talks with Dr. Travis Dickinson, a professor of philosophy about his new book, “Wandering Toward God: Finding Faith amid Doubts and Big Questions." We discuss how we, as Christians, can face our doubts and learn to conquer them as we seek to live a rewarding life filled with joy and certainty in Jesus Christ. Get the "Wandering Toward God" Book!Click here to order Jason's New Book: Parenting Gen Z: Guiding Your Child through a Hostile CultureJason Jimenez on Social MediaFollow @JasonPJimenez on TwitterFollow @JasonPJiminez on InstagramSubscribe to Jason Jimenez on YouTubeAdditional ResourcesChallenging Conversations book on AmazonStand Strong Ministries WebsiteStand Strong Ministries on Facebook

No matter where you go in the world, you will certainly run into someone of a different language, belief, and culture who will have something to say about Jesus. Why is that? How is it that Jesus, a Jewish rabbi who lived over two thousand years ago, continues to captivate people worldwide and is still the most fascinating figure of all time? In this episode, I will be talking with Jim Wallace, a former cold-case detective and renowned Christian case-maker, to gain insight into the enduring appeal of Jesus by utilizing some of his investigative skills to explore the historical and scientific evidence for the existence and divinity of Jesus. Click here to order Jason's New Book: Parenting Gen Z: Guiding Your Child through a Hostile CultureJason Jimenez on Social Media Follow @JasonPJimenez on Twitter Follow @JasonPJiminez on Instagram Subscribe to Jason Jimenez on YouTube Additional Resources Challenging Conversations book on Amazon Stand Strong Ministries Website Stand Strong Ministries on Facebook

A Progressive Christian loves to quote from the Gospel of Thomas as a reliable source of who Jesus really is. But is this “gospel” a historical document that should be placed on par with the canonical Gospels? In this episode, Jason offers up five responses you can use to refute progressive Christianity and show the false view of Jesus in the Gospel of Thomas.Click here to order Jason's New Book: Parenting Gen Z: Guiding Your Child through a Hostile CultureJason Jimenez on Social Media Follow @JasonPJimenez on Twitter Follow @JasonPJiminez on Instagram Subscribe to Jason Jimenez on YouTube Additional Resources Challenging Conversations book on Amazon Stand Strong Ministries Website Stand Strong Ministries on Facebook

We're diving into a thought-provoking topic with popular YouTuber Melissa Dougherty, exploring the risks and pitfalls associated with the movement of new age spirituality and pointers on how to engage a new ager.Click here to order Jason's New Book: Parenting Gen Z: Guiding Your Child through a Hostile CultureJason Jimenez on Social Media Follow @JasonPJimenez on Twitter Follow @JasonPJiminez on Instagram Subscribe to Jason Jimenez on YouTube Additional Resources Challenging Conversations book on Amazon Stand Strong Ministries Website Stand Strong Ministries on Facebook