Crosstalk America from VCY America

Headlines from around the country are often filled with stories revealing fraud and scandal. Billions of dollars have been stolen from taxpayers by those establishing fraudulent businesses or deceptive billing schemes. People have succumbed to enticing bribes and selling state secrets. Also troubling is what is happening in politics in virtually every election cycle. There are politicians dropping out of races after the public becomes aware of illicit relationships or fraudulent dealings to which they have been engaged. The public has often been left feeling betrayed by such individuals who in a clandestine way seek to take advantage of others. Oh, how we long to have people of integrity! This is why it is important that we uplift and showcase the role models of men and women of integrity. Those who displayed character qualities that exhibited their Christian faith and made a difference for this nation. It took courage, obedience, loyalty, truthfulness, boldness and wisdom. We must remember those who made a difference in history and the character qualities they exhibited. And it rests upon us today to pass these stories on to the next generation. Returning to Crosstalk to do just that through her book set called, Profiles of Integrity, was Marilyn Boyer. Marilyn is a descendant of a Revolutionary War soldier and daughter of a World War II veteran. She is deeply patriotic and passionate about our Christian history. As the wife of an Air Force veteran, mother, home educator of fourteen children and grandmother of twenty-eight, Marilyn's dedication to family and country is unparalleled. Enjoy this Crosstalk!

One of the characteristics of our culture today is that of violence. All over our nation and the world, many have been impacted by mass shootings, knifings, physical assault and sexual assault, car jackings, teen takeovers and domestic violence. Amidst such times it behooves us to be alert. It's not about being fearful as we go out the door each day, but are there precautions you can take to stay safe or to induce a climate of safety? How should we respond in such times? Returning to Crosstalk to discuss this issue was Dr. Richard Schmidt. Dr. Schmidt is pastor of Union Grove Baptist Church, and founder of Prophecy Focus Ministries. He's the speaker on the weekly TV program, Prophecy Focus and the radio broadcast, Prophecy Unfolding. He is an author of several books primarily related to Bible prophecy. He spent 32 years in law enforcement including that of acting sheriff of Milwaukee County until his retirement. The broadcast began with Dr. Schmidt citing some astounding statistics. 7,618 homicides have taken place in America just since January. The injury total from these homicides 14,245. Up until yesterday there have been 278 mass shootings based on four or more people having been injured or killed. Keep in mind, this is just gun violence as we must remember that violence also takes place in numerous other ways as well. So when it comes to violence, in addition to the categories already listed, are there any special precautions that women should take? What about church gatherings, active shooters or road rage? Review this edition of Crosstalk for the information you need to know in order to stay safe! More Information: myugbc.com

Mat Staver is founder & Chairman of Liberty Counsel. Mat is a constitutional attorney with three landmark cases before the U.S. Supreme Court. He is an author and the host of the radio broadcasts Faith & Freedom and Freedom's Call and the TV broadcast Freedom Alive. This broadcast covers numerous important topics... Many people are thronging after Democratic Socialist candidates as they appear on more and more ballots. Concerns continue over non-citizens being on our voting rolls. Michigan's latest move to finally follow the courts and allow talk therapy to take place. A Christian physician assistant in Pennsylvania just won a settlement after being fired for refusing to participate in trans procedures. Schools that continue to secretly transition children. Additionally, Jim and Mat also re-visit the Fauci hearing from last week and the pending vote on contempt. More Information: LC.org

The sermon explores the geographical scope of Christian missions by analyzing Jesus' command in Acts 1:8 to be witnesses from Jerusalem to the ends of the earth. It illustrates how the early church expanded its ministry beyond its local context through persecution and the scattering of believers, ultimately reaching global destinations like India and China. The narrative emphasizes that every believer's current location serves as their starting point for evangelism, mirroring the apostolic journey. By highlighting historical examples such as the Apostle Thomas, the message underscores the urgency and inevitability of spreading the gospel worldwide. The central call to action urges Christians to actively participate in this divine mandate without hesitation or limitation.

Here are some of the news stories mentioned during this News Roundup: Audio clips from the Fauci Senate hearing Senator Rand Paul releases Anthony Fauci's pandemic diary 112 times Fauci invoked the 5th Amendment during the hearing Hamas says it has agreed to disarm after Trump announces Board of Peace plan Netanyahu calls talks with Trump one of their best conversations Security Council Authorizes International Stabilization Force in Gaza Treasury Cracks Down on Global Networks Enabling Iran's Mahan Air and IRGC Egypt hit with drone strikes as Iran war appears to widen North Korea sending 30,000 troops to Russia is a 'win-win' Senate takes first steps on Russian sanctions as Zelenskyy watches Invaded: 60,000 Migrants Breach Spanish Border Territory of Ceuta State Department Launches Campaign to Dismantle International Criminal Court's Threat to American Sovereignty 'True American original.' Trump, DC pay tribute to Lindsey Graham Schools in FL, GA and CO are testing pepper-spraying, strobe-flashing drones to stop shooters U.S. FCC approves giant space mirror to deliver 'sunlight on demand' FCC Updates Covered List to Include Foreign-Produced Advanced Robotic Devices and Power Inverters McConnell out of hospital but not yet cleared to return to work Trump endorses Mike Lindell for Minnesota Governor

More than ever in this election year we are hearing of Democratic Socialists.  Many thought this would never advance beyond Bernie Sanders and AOC, but its taking off like a wildfire where candidates are winning elections or advancing in the primaries waiting for the final showdown this November.  But this mindset is not just advancing socialism, which our guest calls it "communism-lite" but also the cause of Islam is also being advanced in what some would call a political jihad.  It's referred to as the "Red/Green Axis."  And rather than be a separate party, they have entered the Democratic Party.  Our guest today recently authored a column, The Red/Green Axis is Flexing its Muscles in the Democratic Party.  Robert Knight is a former Los Angeles Times news editor and columnist for the Washington Times as well as to other publications.  Robert has had senior positions in a number of pro-family organizations.  He has written several books including, "The Coming Communist Wave:  What Happens if the Left Captures All Three Branches of Government," "Liberty on the Brink", "Crooked:  What Really Happened in the 2020 Election and How to Stop the Fraud" and "The Battle for America's Soul" in which he provides 10 Steps to Restore Freedom Contact Info: To receive Robert's weekly column send an email to robertknight4@gmail.com .  In the subject line write, "Sign Me Up." For resources visit RobertHKnight.com

David Lloyd is the father of Davy Lloyd. He's a graduate of Ozark Bible Institute and College. After marriage to his wife Alicia, they moved to Port-au-Prince, Haiti, in order to pursue their missionary calling: a children's home under the name Missions in Haiti. They raised more than 100 children to adulthood, where hundreds of children are educated annually. As we read through the Scriptures, we see many occasions in which God miraculously delivered individuals from harm. We read of Daniel whom God sent an angel to shut the mouths of the lions. There was Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego delivered from the fiery furnace. Queen Esther and her people were protected when it seemed they would be wiped out by those who hated the Jews. We think of Peter whom God sent an angel to open prison doors and Elijah who was protected by perhaps the most wicked king and queen of Israel. While some were delivered from death, others were delivered by death. Hebrews 11 writes of those who were stoned, sawn asunder, killed by the sword, or suffered in other situations. Why does God deliver some and not others? Job writes as recorded in Job 23:14, "For he performeth the thing that is appointed for me: and many such things are with him." We don't know the mind of God, but we do know God can be trusted and glorified in life or in death. Today's program is a true account of what happened just two years ago, as we learn about the simple service and the sudden sacrifice of martyrs in Haiti, and a family who had devoted themselves to serving the Lord at a Haitian children's home until their lives and that of a Christian co-worker were taken.

In considering stories and issues for today, Jim's mind was taken to Romans 1. The phrase that stood out was from verse 21: "their foolish heart was darkened." That's exactly what we are witnessing in our society today: darkened hearts which have rejected God. A number of stories and issues today make this very point.

Michael Germi is a former Muslim born in Iran into a Shia Muslim family. In this setting he learned to practice Islam praying 5 times a day toward Mecca. He fasted during Ramadan. He practiced self-mutilation for the cause of Allah. He migrated to Australia in 2006 and in 2009 placed his trust in Jesus Christ. He later moved to the States where he is a missionary with Baptist World Mission and now proclaims the Gospel to Islamic nations by satellite TV, satellite radio and internet radio. He has written several Farsi Christian books and desires to plant churches around the world where Persians are scattered. After 13 days of strikes, the United States has paused its military actions against Iran hoping for diplomacy to take place. The U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations, Mike Walz said yesterday that the President was "giving talks some space, he's giving a little bit of room." A senior official in the Trump administration said that the President "has always been clear that his preference is diplomacy, but he has shown Iran what will happen if they fail to come to the table in a serious way." Today Iran says it is still in control of the Strait of Hormuz and is not seeking to resume peace talks with the United States. As a matter of fact, a spokesperson for Iran's Foreign Ministry, Esmail Baghaei said Iran has not asked to resume peace talks with the United States. Last week wng.org reported that "Iran's Ministry of Intelligence recently classified several Persian-language Christian satellite TV broadcasters as hostile organizations." Such Christian broadcasters were being banned alongside other groups such as Voice of America, BBC Persian and Israeli outlets. "Iran

The sermon urges believers to actively engage in God's work immediately, drawing from the parable of the vineyard in Matthew 21. It highlights three primary motivations for this urgency: obedience to Christ's command, the severe consequences of neglecting opportunities for evangelism, and the imminent return of Jesus. The speaker warns that failing to serve can result in being set aside by God and losing future rewards at the judgment seat of Christ, rather than losing salvation. Emphasizing the unpredictability of the Rapture and current global signs, the message calls every Christian to respond faithfully to their specific calling without delay.

Another active news week brought stories you need to be aware of and to understand from a Christian perspective. Here are some highlights from the first quarter hour: --U.S. CENTCOM announced yesterday that forces struck Iranian targets for the 13th straight night as Israel braces for a counter attack from Iran. --On Thursday, President Trump said Iranian money controlled by the U.S. will be used to pay for ships damaged as a result of the war in the Middle East. --The Senate rejected a resolution calling for the U.S. to cease military action in Iran, just hours after the House passed a similar measure amid renewed hostilities following the collapse of the cease-fire. --Marco Rubio laid down "Trump's Law" when asked about Iran. Jim provided audio of his comments. --Nearly 3 years after the October 7, 2023, massacre, Hamas has calmly elected a new head of its political bureau. This demonstrates that the terror group remains sufficiently organized to manage internal, political affairs, while continuing to rule much of the Gaza Strip and dictate the lives of more than 2 million Palestinians. --The Israeli military confirmed that it's constructing a physical barrier along the so-called "yellow line" in Gaza. --Israel has set an election date, October 27th, for the Netanyahu government to complete its full term. --Danny Danon, Israel's ambassador to the U.N., commented on the mayor of New York City, Zohran Mamdami, who had said he would arrest Israeli Prime Minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, when he comes to address the U.N. General Assembly.

Ken Ham is the founder of Answers in Genesis and its life-changing attractions, the highly acclaimed Creation Museum and the world-renowned Ark Encounter. Ken is a biblical apologist and author of multiple books including: Divine Dilemma (understanding death, disease, and suffering), Divided Nation (about today's culture wars), The Lie: Unraveling the Myth: Evolution/Millions of Years, along with Miraculous: The Ken Ham and Answers in Genesis Story. Ken is also a blogger and speaker on Answers…with Ken Ham. Their purpose is to equip Christians to face the challenges of culture, restore the foundations of the church and share the gospel confidently. His core message stresses the importance of biblical authority from the very first verse of Scripture. Racism. It's a word used quite frequently in the news, in politics, in the educational system, in social media posts and in street demonstrations. It's use in these various ways demonstrates how modern culture divides humanity by skin color, by ethnicity, and by heritage. As a result, we are becoming more and more at odds with one another. These days we often hear the phrase, "Follow the science." So what does science say concerning race? More importantly, what does the Bible teach on this issue? Find out as Ken talks about his book, One Blood!

Mark Krikorian is a nationally recognized expert on immigration issues, serving as the Executive Director of Center for Immigration Studies. They are an independent, non-partisan research organization examining and critiquing the impact of immigration on the United States. He has testified numerous times before Congress and has published articles in many outlets. Jim regularly receives an email from the Department of Homeland Security with a listing of the arrests of what they call the Worst of the Worst. Nonetheless, officers serving under ICE are regularly being vilified by the media, community activists and by politicians, without regard for the magnitude of the work they are doing to make America safe. For example, when ICE shoots a person who is attempting to ram them with their vehicle, these same groups become unglued, yet stay silent when a person who is here illegally kills others on the roadways or rapes an innocent individual. So while the Iran war has dominated the news cycle in recent months, the issue of illegal immigration is still a hot-button one. Join Jim as he has Mark bring you up-to-date on the many facets that are part of this topic. For example, what's the latest concerning ICE and their use of masks and traffic stops, expedited removals by DHS, the birthright citizenship debate, non-citizen voting, should there be more worksite immigrant enforcement, the cost of illegal immigration to our nation, and more. Callers joined in, bringing their thoughts to bear on this subject as well. More Information: cis.org

What in the World? That phrase has become the title of an ongoing series on Crosstalk noting some of the more outlandish or shocking things taking place in society and the world. Many of these stories don't get coverage from mainstream media, so settle-in as Jim takes you through these surprising news items. Here's a sample from the broadcast: Chancellor Sam Hawgood of the University of California San Francisco struggles to answer whether a non-biological woman has ever had a baby. The League of Women Voters believes that keeping men who claim to be women out of women's sports is an egregious example of sex discrimination. A transgender person born as a male and identifying as a female fled the U.S. for the Netherlands, apparently feeling there would be greater freedom there. This same person complained about being harassed by Muslim migrants in this Dutch country. On a leftist podcast, Francesca Hong, who's running for governor in Wisconsin, branded hospitals that won't provide gender affirming care for children as, "cowardly". Christ Episcopal Church in Dayton, Ohio, used food dye to turn their communion bread in the colors of the LGBTQ rainbow. The Gay and Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation released a report bemoaning the decline of LGBTQ characters in film. Texas State Representative James Talarico, the Council on American/Islamic Relations, Minnesota Governor Tim Walz and more also made the cut as part of this selection of eye-opening news stories.

The sermon emphasizes the urgent necessity of immediate obedience to the Great Commission by analyzing the parable of the vineyard in Matthew chapter 21. It argues that delayed obedience is not true obedience, using the command to work 'today' as a central theological point for evangelism. The speaker highlights the eternal consequences of neglecting this task, asserting that those who do not hear the gospel remain lost regardless of their moral efforts or religious systems. By referencing passages such as John 4:35 and Ezekiel 3, the message underscores the believer's responsibility to warn others before it is too late. Ultimately, the text calls listeners to action, reminding them that salvation comes only through faith in Christ's righteousness, not personal merit.

Dalton led listeners through numerous news stories from the past week, highlighted by plenty of audio clips. Here's a sample of what was covered: --A powerful 7.3 magnitude earthquake struck near the coast of Mexico's southernmost state, triggering a tsunami warning. --Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt answered why some would seek to discredit President Trump's Thursday speech on election integrity even before it aired. --During President Trump's speech on Thursday, he alleged China committed election meddling with proof at whitehouse.gov. --China worked to ensure Trump would not be re-elected during the 2020 election cycle. --President Trump claimed that voters were lied to concerning the security of our election infrastructure. --President Trump mentioned a fourth set of documents, indicating that even when significant fraud has been detected, it's been covered-up. A 2020 incident in Muskegon, Michigan, was given. --Secretary of Homeland Security Markwayne Mullin held a press conference asking the question as to why some TV networks chose not to carry the president's speech. What are they trying to cover up? --The medical examiner for the District of Columbia released preliminary findings this week on the death of Senator Lindsey Graham of South Carolina. --Weeks of guessing games surrounding Senator Mitch McConnell's health came to an end when he stepped forward with a detailed account of the fall that hospitalized him last month.

The sermon contrasts the saving power of the gospel with the insufficiency of human religion, emphasizing that salvation comes through God reaching down to humanity rather than people reaching up. It highlights the historical reality of Jesus' virgin birth, vicarious death, and literal resurrection as the unique foundation of Christian faith. The speaker illustrates this truth through a personal missionary anecdote comparing Buddhist relics to the living Christ who conquered death. The message then returns to the parable in Matthew 21, defining the work of missions as reaching people with the gospel and teaching them to do the same. This process involves committing the unchanging content of the faith to faithful men who will disciple others and continue the cycle of evangelism.

So many news stories are part of the news cycle. Jim delivers those that are important from a Christian perspective. Here's a sample from the broadcast: --Tehran has dragged it's Persian Gulf neighbors back into the U.S./Iran war by firing a volley of drones and missiles at American partners across the region as part of a major flare-up in violence that upended peace talks. --According to NATO Secretary Mark Rutte, the fresh U.S. attacks on Iran were absolutely necessary. --The communication's office of Hamas' government in Gaza announced Monday that the head of the terrorist organization's government committee has submitted their resignation as part of a preparation to transfer administration of the Gaza strip to a technocratic committee affiliated with the Palestinian Authority. --Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Tuesday that Iran "definitely" possesses chemical weapons and would "not care a wit about murdering hundreds of thousands of Americans if they could." --Israel and Lebanon have moved to the implementation stage of the U.S. brokered framework agreement that was reached last month. --Both Republicans and Democrats are opposing President Trump's plan to sell F-35 fighter jets to Turkey. --President Trump told reporters on Air Force One that Spain came back all the way and has agreed to boost NATO payments after he ordered a U.S. trade embargo with the country over its reluctance to contribute more to the organization. --Graham Platner, the Maine Democratic nominee for the U.S. Senate, has withdrawn his name from the race against Susan Collins. --Don't miss this edition of Crosstalk!

The funeral procession for the former Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has been underway today. Fox News reported that as the procession approached the Shrine of Imam Reza today, mourners carried revolutionary placards and a massive banner threatening President Donald Trump. Khamenei's body was carried by a slow moving drunk as mourners chanted revenge slogans against Pres. Trump while placards reading "Kill Trump" appeared in the crowd. In violation of the ceasefire, Iran attacked ships travelling through the Strait of Hormuz while the U.S. has launched retaliatory strikes against Iran. Pres. Trump has called the Iranian negotiators "liars" and has said the ceasefire is dead. Joining us with the latest developments and analysis today is Shahram Hadian. Shahram is Founder of Truth in Love Ministry. He is a Christian Pastor and a former Muslim. Shahram was born in Iran and came to America in 1978 to escape an oppressive Islamic regime and committed his life to Jesus Christ in 1999. He has an extensive background not only as a Pastor, but also as a former police officer, teacher, coach and servant leader in his community.

Glenna Marshall is a Pastor's wife and mother of two sons. She's the author of: The Promise of His Presence, Everyday Faithfulness, and other books. She appeared on Crosstalk to discuss her newest release: "Praying in Pain: How to Know You're Heard When You Haven't Been Healed." Have you ever gone to bed at night dreading the next multiple hours where sleep eludes you due to pain? Perhaps this isn't a single night but night after night. You try the usual things, shifting your position in bed multiple times, trying different pillow positions, perhaps using some sort of over-the-counter pain-reliever, perhaps applying heat or cold, or moving from your bed to the couch to the recliner and then back to your bed again with no lasting relief. Glenna writes, "I've spent many nights treading water in an ocean of pain. And yet, I can think of no other place or time when God has most faithfully met me in the dark. In the night. In the crucible of my deepest and hardest physical suffering. I have learned that though it feels impossibly hard to pray in the grip of crushing pain, prayer is how we survive it. It's how we endure." What about when your pain is so great you cannot pray? Is it normal to feel like God is ignoring us when we're in pain? What about those who say prayer for pain is merely complaining to God? What help can the Psalms bring to such situations? What part does gratitude play when suffering? These are just a number of questions Glenna answers as she explains, from experience, how to handle pain from a biblical perspective.

Twila Brase is President and Co-founder of Citizens' Council for Health Freedom, a national patient-centered, privacy-focused, free-market policy organization to support health care choices, individualized patient care and medical and genetic privacy. Twila is a certified public health nurse, and author of the eight-time award-winning book Big Brother in the Exam Room: The Dangerous Truth About Electronic Health Records. She is the speaker on the daily Health Freedom Minute heard on stations across the nation. There was an article in the BizTimes which covers Milwaukee Business news. It was dealing with the springing up of data centers all over the country. Here's how the article began, "Every time you ask an AI assistant a question, stream a video, transfer money, or pull up a patient's medical record, something physical happens. Somewhere in a building full of servers and cooling systems and fiber cables and backup generators, a machine processes that request. That building is a data center. And right now, the United States does not have nearly enough of them." We've done multiple programs on these AI data centers and have told you that virtually your every social media post, medical records, financial records, emails etc are all contained in these data centers. But are you aware that AI has also entered the medical exam room with recording devices that are capturing your visit including what you believe to be a very private conversation with your doctor? More information: CCHFreedom.org

Our nation has just come through a celebration weekend. There was the Great American State Fair, parades, speeches, military flyovers, re-enactments, and fireworks displays which surpassed all previous 4th of July celebrations. All of this was done in celebration of 250 years of Independence. Now let's step back and take a look at the opening sentence to the Preamble of the Declaration of Independence. "We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness." Tragically, while we have crossed this 250th anniversary celebration, there are many babies in the womb who are being denied the right to their life, their liberty and their pursuit of happiness. Their lives are being snatched away by the hands of the abortionist, by the hands of a mother popping abortion pills into her system, or of a rapist or pedophile trying to destroy the evidence of their actions. So while we have just celebrated freedom, who's concerned about the freedom of a child conceived in the womb? Rev. James Harden answers this question as he comments on the restoration of funding for Planned Parenthood that had been pulled from the One, Big, Beautiful Bill. Additionally, he discusses fabricated rights vs. unalienable rights, a lawsuit against CompassCare Pregnancy Services, drinking water concerns due to abortion drugs, and much more, including comments from listeners. More Information: CompassCareCommunity.com

The sermon emphasizes that every Christian serves as God's ambassador in the task of world evangelism, extending beyond just traveling to foreign fields. Drawing from Matthew 21 and Luke 14, it clarifies that the divine command is not merely to go, but to work by reaching people with the message of salvation. The speaker illustrates this through personal experiences in Vietnam, highlighting the necessity of learning local languages and utilizing various methods like medical ministry to effectively connect with others. The central argument asserts that cultural change is not the primary goal; rather, the focus remains on preaching the gospel so individuals may repent and trust in Jesus Christ. Ultimately, believers are urged to engage fully in this work, whether by going personally or supporting through prayer and provision, to ensure the message reaches every creature.

Leading up to the 4th of July holiday, Jim brought many news stories to the attention of listeners. Here's a sample from the broadcast: --A divided U.S. Supreme Court ruled on Monday that election officials can count mail-in ballots that arrive after election day as long as they are postmarked by or before that date. --A federal judge blocked the President's bid to federalize mail-in voting. --President Trump has called for the Save America Act to be passed after the Supreme Court upheld Mississippi's policy to count mail-in ballots that arrive after election day. --A South Dakota Republican Party's Resolutions Committee approved a censure resolution against Senate Majority Leader John Thune, who represents the state. --The Supreme Court ruled that Title IX allows schools to provide separate sports teams for men and women defined by their gender assigned at birth. --The Supreme Court has also upheld that the executive order restricting automatic birthright citizenship violates the 14th Amendment. --Secretary of Homeland Security Markwayne Mullin clashed last Sunday with State of the Union host Jake Tapper over temporary, protected status for Haitian and Syrian immigrants. --Amy Curtis of Townhall.com described one of the main planks of the platform of the Democratic Socialists of America as including, "...the dismantling of police and the abolition of prisons. That means every violent criminal will be free to roam society where they can rob, assault, rape, and murder without consequences." --The U.S. and Iran have indirect, technical talks in Doha as they seek to agree on the flow of shipping through the Strait of Hormuz

If you have ever put up a building, you know the importance of a good foundation. A faulty foundation is going to lead to multiple problems and even to the demise or collapse of a building. Our guest has written that a subtle shift compromises the integrity of the entire structure. These subtle shifts are impacting our nation, the church, the home and this generation. Psalm 11:3 says, "If the foundations be destroyed, what can the righteous do?" In these critical times upon us, we're going to be taking a look at the need of our nation. But we're not going to stop there, because we also will be taking a look at the need of the church and the need of this generation. Dr. Scott Pauley is a full-time evangelist with a passion for preaching the Gospel and a burden to see this generation reached for Christ. He leads a ministry named "Enjoying the Journey" which is engaged in evangelizing the lost, equipping believers and encouraging Pastors and Churches. He is the author of Revival Praying, New Testament Marriage and a devotional commentary on the Psalms and he joins us on this edition of Crosstalk! More Information: enjoyingthejourney.org

America is celebrating 250 years of Independence. While there are those within our borders who are trying to change it, we recognize that people all over the world desire to come here. To mark this momentous anniversary, Jim read the preamble of our Declaration of Independence and also the Preamble to our Constitution: Declaration of Independence (1776): We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable rights, that among these are life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness.–That to secure these rights, governments are instituted among men, deriving their just powers from the consent of the governed, –That whenever any form of government becomes destructive of these ends, it is the right of the people to alter or to abolish it, and to institute new government, laying its foundation on such principles and organizing its powers in such form, as to them shall seem most likely to effect their safety and happiness. Preamble to the Constitution (1787): We the people of the United States, in order to form a more perfect Union, establish justice, insure domestic tranquility, provide for the common defense, promote the general Welfare, and secure the blessings of liberty to ourselves and our posterity, do ordain and establish this constitution for the United States of America. These two paragraphs, outlining the foundational principles for our nation, also point to the secret of America's greatness. Joining Jim to expound more on this was Randy Melchert. Randy is a college debate national champion who earned a Master's Degree in Church History from Trinity Evangelical Divinity School ...

Around the world, Christians are being persecuted for their faith. A report last Friday indicated 28 Christians were massacred in Nigeria as Islamic militants targeted a village overnight. A week ago today, the ACLJ reported in the Congo, the DRC, Islamic jihadists were conducting a village-by-village extermination of Christians. They report in the last three weeks, 76 Christians were hunted down and slaughtered/beheaded, executed in groups, and dragged from their homes. The ultimatum is: "Deny Christ or die." Earlier this month a story indicated that authorities with the Chinese Communist Party raided the Sunday service of an influential Protestant house church detaining pastors and dozens of members, including children. Also this month in India, it was reported that three Christian families had their homes burned down by a suspected Hindu mob. The matter of persecution is very real and it's happening every day. Todd Nettleton is Vice President for Message for the Voice of the Martyrs–USA and host of The Voice of the Martyrs Radio and joins us for this edition of Crosstalk.

The sermon outlines four distinct ways Christians can participate in world evangelism: going in person, sending others by proxy, providing financial support, and praying for missionaries. It emphasizes that while not everyone is called to be a foreign missionary, every believer has a vital role to play through generous giving and intercession. The speaker strongly advocates for supporting missions through local churches rather than independent ministries, highlighting the biblical principle of liberality found in 2 Corinthians 8. Additionally, the message encourages immediate and heartfelt financial contributions, warning against selfish motives and urging believers to give while they are alive. Finally, it underscores the power of prayer as a means of traveling spiritually to the mission field, citing Ephesians 6 and Thessalonians 3 as biblical foundations for this support.

From Denmark to data centers, Jim covered a lot of ground on the latest edition of the 'Round-Up.' Here's a sample of the headlines: --Double earthquake kills over 900 with thousands injured in Venezuela. --Last Wednesday, the Senate held a second vote in as many days on a measure to end the war with Iran, this time with a different result. --The U.S./Iran peace negotiations faced new turbulence yesterday after Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps warned commercial vessels against using routes outside Tehran's approved passage through the Strait of Hormuz. --Secretary of State Marco Rubio warned Iran of the fantasy of imposing fees on ships passing through the Strait of Hormuz. --Iran's clerical regime has sharply escalated executions of all political prisoners, using the gallows to warn a restless population that descent will not be tolerated. --Iran's judiciary announced that more than 3,000 citizens have been arrested in recent months on suspicion of cooperating with Israel. --The U.S. military announced Wednesday that a precision airstrike in Northwest Syria killed a senior ISIS leader. --Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Monday that Israeli troops would remain in a security zone in Southern Lebanon for as long as necessary. --President Donald Trump praised President Erdogan of Turkey who he suggested could have entered the war on the side of Iran. Trump asked him to stay out and he did. Now it appears Trump's in favor of a weapons sale to Turkey that would include F-35 stealth fighters and dozens of jet engines. --Denmark is moving toward a possible nationwide ban on the Islamic call to prayer.

This edition of Crosstalk looks at the Socialist-Islamic wave advancing across our country.  It's also been referred to as the red-green axis/alliance to describe both the far-left, progressive, or socialistic political movement (the red) and the advancement of Islam (the green.) William J Federer is our guest ..

World tensions are running high over what is happening in the Middle East. Earlier this week Vice President J.D. Vance was engaged in talks to work out an agreement with Iran. Present were representatives of the United States and Iran, but also Qatar and Pakistan. Pakistan is an Islamic Republic, the fifth most populous country in the world, with approximately 260 million people. They are seeking to transform this region through this agreement, yet Islam has no tolerance for Christianity. Christians are often targeted for their faith, even if it means bringing false charges against them. Pastor Shahid Kaleem returns to Crosstalk to open our eyes to what is happening in this region. For example, what is Pakistan's relationship with Iran? How do Pakistan's Shia Muslims treat Christians? What about the blasphemy laws targeting Christianity? Most importantly, there's the vital need to get the gospel out to a spiritually needy nation.

We are in Primary season throughout the United States. Today, voters in Maryland, New York and Utah are going to the polls. Flying beneath the radar on so many races is CAIR Action (Council on American-Islamic Relations). Just today, CAIR Action sent out a press release saying their "team was on the ground and behind the scenes across multiple states, doing the essential work that moves elections. Endorsing candidates, mobilizing voters, and building the kind of relationships that turn a community into a constituency." They state this has officially become our most impactful cycle yet." Indeed, the slate of Islamic candidates is on the increase. In the words of Muslim activist Linda Sarsour, which you'll hear near the beginning of the broadcast, "We're also cleaning up Congress." Review this broadcast and consider the following: An interesting twist within this movement is the fact that there are not just Democrat Muslims running for office but Republican Muslims as well. What's the difference? Does this mean there is such a thing as a moderate Muslim after all? Egypt doesn't allow Hamas members to run for office yet we allow them to do so in America. Why, when we know that the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) is really Hamas? Is Islam really woven into the fabric of America's history as one audio clip alleges? Joining us is Usama Dakdok from the Straight Way of Grace Ministry.

A flurry of reports are coming from the Middle East as it pertains to Iran, Israel, Hamas, Hezbollah, the Straits of Hormuz and the United States. The second day of talks in Geneva, Switzerland, just concluded and Fox News is reporting that the Treasury Secretary announced that the Trump administration has temporarily authorized the production, delivery and sale of Iranian oil under a 60-day license. This broadcast presents an update on this as well as the continued warring between Israel and Hezbollah, Lindsey Graham's feelings regarding the current negotiations, Israel kills a journalist allegedly tied to Hamas, and more. Also, an update on what's going on with the rapid advancement of artificial intelligence, quantum computing, the controversy surrounding Flock cameras, and how all this points to the anti-Christ. In the end, AI is becoming so sophisticated that even experts are having a hard time discerning truth from deception. Dr. Richard Schmidt is Pastor of Union Grove Baptist Church and founder of Prophecy Focus Ministries. He joins us on this edition of Crosstalk. For more information: prophecyfocus.org

The sermon focuses on the personal responsibility of every believer to engage in world evangelism, using the parable of the two sons to illustrate that God addresses each individual directly. It distinguishes between those called to physically go to foreign fields and those who participate by proxy through financial support and prayer. The speaker emphasizes that while not everyone is called to be a foreign missionary, all Christians are commissioned to reach their immediate context or support those who do. A historical account of Dick Hillis and his supporter Roger Dahmer serves as a practical example of how individuals can fulfill the mission mandate from afar. The central message urges listeners to recognize their specific role in God's work rather than remaining passive observers.

--Israel and Lebanon's Hezbollah agreed to a cease-fire today. --Newly revealed details have emerged from the Memorandum of Understanding agreed to by the U.S. and Iran. --Hamas believes the prospect of a deal between Washington and Iran is not being interpreted as a sign of American strength but as a sign of America's weakness. --Iran's foreign minister spokesperson takes a "victory lap" concerning the new Memorandum of Understanding between Iran and the U.S., claiming they have defeated two nuclear powers. --Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu avowed that with or without an agreement, Iran will not have nuclear weapons. --President Trump insisted the Iran deal can survive IDF strikes on Hezbollah and Lebanon, while saying he is not happy with how Israel has fought. --U.S. Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee commented on the importance of Israel to the United States. --Vice President J.D. Vance told CBN News that the looming agreement with Iran would be good for both America and Israel, although questions remain about whether Iran can really be trusted. --The U.S. Air Force has lost nearly one-third of the available fleet of critical reaper drones in the Middle East conflict since the start of the Trump administration. There's no active production line to build more, nor has the Pentagon and Congress produced a funded plan to replace them. --The Department of War is reportedly seeking 80 billion dollars to cover costs associated with the Iran conflict and other unrelated expenses. --President Trump has invoked the cold war era Defense Production Act to spur the production of more munitions.

This video presents a powerful contrast between the legacies of Karl Marx and D.L. Moody, using their graves in London's Highgate Cemetery as symbolic bookends of opposing worldviews. It critiques Marx's ideology—rooted in the abolition of private property, God, and the family, and grounded in revolutionary upheaval—as a philosophy that, despite claiming to liberate humanity, resulted in widespread oppression and death. In contrast, the sermon exalts Moody's life and ministry as a testament to true liberation through faith in Christ, emphasizing the enduring impact of the Gospel on individuals and society. The central message calls listeners to reflect on their own legacy, urging a life defined not by cultural or political ideologies, but by obedience to God and the transformative power of the truth found in Jesus Christ.

We have just passed the 20 year anniversary of Al Gore's An Inconvenient Truth. When he was asked recently by ABC News Chief Meteorologist and Chief Climate Correspondent Ginger Zee whether the film and its predictions on global warming hold up, Gore responded, "Unfortunately, yes." He went on to say, "The scientists were dead right on all the important elements of it and it really is insane that we are continuing to use the sky as an open sewer and we're trapping so much heat every day it's equal to the amount that would be released by 800,000 Hiroshima-class atomic bombs exploding every day on the earth." Earlier this year the Yale School of the Environment published an article titled, Overshoot: The World is Hitting Point of No Return on Climate. They stated: "With warming set to pass the critical 1.5-degree limit, scientists are warning that the world is on course to trigger tipping points that would lead to cascading consequences from the melting of ice sheets to the death of the Amazon rainforest-that could not be reversed." Returning to Crosstalk to discuss the latest response by the U.N. General Assembly to such news was Alex Newman.

The video draws a stark contrast between the legacy of Charles Darwin and the Christian understanding of human dignity, arguing that Darwin's theory of evolution, particularly his assertion that humans evolved from primates, has profound moral and theological consequences. It highlights how Darwin's views—such as his racial hierarchies and the concept of 'survival of the fittest'—paved the way for dehumanizing ideologies, including eugenics and genocide. The sermon underscores that the rejection of divine creation as a foundation for human worth has eroded moral boundaries, enabling justifications for abortion, euthanasia, and infanticide. By referencing Westminster Abbey as a symbol of enduring legacy, it warns that ideas, especially those denying God's role in creation, carry lasting and destructive consequences. Ultimately, the message affirms that true human value is rooted in being made in God's image, not in evolutionary progression.

Sunday is Father's Day, so this Crosstalk celebrated the coming holiday with this annual tribute. Host Jim Schneider began with the history behind the holiday, noted the characteristics of a Godly father, and then moved on to allow listeners an opportunity to call and give honor to fathers past and present.

The video uses John Bunyan's grave in Bunhill Cemetery as a powerful backdrop to reflect on the enduring spiritual truths found in Pilgrim's Progress, emphasizing the weight of sin, the reality of temptation, and the ultimate hope of eternal salvation. It highlights how Bunyan, imprisoned for 12 years, transformed his suffering into a timeless testimony of faith, grace, and perseverance. The central message underscores the Christian journey as a pilgrimage toward the heavenly city, where the burden of sin is finally laid to rest in Christ's empty tomb. Through the imagery of the cross and the relief of forgiveness, the sermon affirms God's redemptive work and the lasting impact of faithful witness. The tone is reverent and encouraging, inviting listeners to find strength and hope in the enduring legacy of a man who endured hardship for the sake of the Gospel.

250 years of freedom and independence is something every one of us should be thankful for. Too often we take for granted the freedoms and liberties we enjoy and forget there was a price that many paid. There were 56 signers to the Declaration of Independence that pledged their lives, their fortunes and their sacred honor. Sadly today, there are those who desire the downfall of our nation, trying to destroy celebrations and recognition of this milestone. Further, there is erosion that has taken place trying to take away the values and freedoms we hold dear. We must be ever vigilant or this cherished treasure, America, will vanish before our very eyes. Not only will we discuss these matters today, but we also take a look at the author of the original draft of the Declaration of Independence, Thomas Jefferson. Joining us is Dr. Jerry Newcombe, Executive Director of the Providence Forum, a division of Coral Ridge Ministries. He is also a columnist and podcast host for Providence Forum and has produced a series of documentaries on America's Judeo-Christian roots. He is the author or co-author of 33 books including George Washington's Sacred Fire, The Book that Made America: How the Bible Formed Our Nation, American Amnesia: Is America Paying the Price for Forgetting God, the Source of our Liberty, and Doubting Thomas? The Life and Legacy of Thomas Jefferson. Jerry is also senior pastor at New Presbyterian Church in Wilton Manors, FL. More information: ProvidenceForum.org

This video uses the historic London cemetery of Bunhill Fields as a living tapestry to illustrate the enduring impact of faithful, often uncelebrated, Christian ministry across generations. Through the graves of influential figures like John Bunyan, John Owen, William Blake, and the Wesleys, the message underscores how God often raises up humble, dedicated servants—particularly young and unheralded ones—to carry forward His work with lasting influence. The narrative highlights a recurring pattern: the most transformative eras in church history have often followed the model of investing in young, passionate leaders rather than seeking fame or celebrity. The contrast between the church's golden age under C.H. Spurgeon—a young pastor chosen for faithfulness rather than reputation—and its subsequent decline after seeking star power serves as a sobering reminder of the value of spiritual maturity over cultural prominence. Ultimately, the sermon calls the church to prioritize faithful stewardship, continuity, and the quiet power of godly character over the allure of celebrity, drawing strength from the legacy of those who lived and died in faithful service.

Yesterday afternoon at 4:29pm Eastern Time, the following post was sent on President Trump's Truth Social account: "The Deal with the Islamic Republic of Iran is now complete. Congratulations to all! I hereby authorize the toll free opening of the Strait of Hormuz and, simultaneously herewith, authorize the immediate removal of the United States Naval blockade. Ships of the World, start your engines. Let the oil flow! President Donald J. Trump." Dr. Richard Schmidt is Pastor of Union Grove Baptist Church and Founder of Prophecy Focus Ministries. He is speaker on the weekly TV program, Prophecy Focus and the radio broadcast, Prophecy Unfolding. He spent 32 years in law enforcement until his retirement. He's authored several books including: Are You Going to a Better Place?, Daniel's Gap Paul's Mystery, Tribulation to Triumph: The Olivet Discourse, Globalism: The Great World Consumption, Artificial Intelligence: Transhumanism & the De-Evolution of Democracy and, The Coming Millennial Kingdom.

The sermon distinguishes between the judgment seat of Christ for believers and the great white throne judgment for unbelievers, emphasizing that Christians are judged based on their works rather than their sins. It explains that while all sin is erased through Christ's sacrifice, believers will appear before Christ to receive rewards or suffer loss depending on the eternal value of their actions. The speaker outlines five specific crowns of reward corresponding to different aspects of faithful Christian living, such as self-denial and evangelism. These rewards are not earned by merit but are granted by God's grace to those who live by the Holy Spirit's power. Ultimately, the purpose of these rewards is to enable believers to cast their crowns at Jesus' feet in worship, acknowledging His sole worthiness.

Program information forthcoming ...

Life is under attack on many fronts. It's being attacked in the womb, it's being attacked in the sunset years and even those who don't measure up to other people's standards due to some form of disability are also coming under attack. God is the Author of life. We are told in Psalm 139 that we are "fearfully and wonderfully made." In Jeremiah 1 we see it is God that has formed us. In Proverbs 6 we're told that the LORD hates the "hands that shed innocent blood" yet we are living in a society that has rejected God. The number of babies being killed by abortion including use of the abortion pill is escalating. Children in the womb are being killed due to a disability. At the other end of the spectrum, just recently a man in Canada screamed for help during a botched euthanasia. We live in a very barbaric society with the nod and approval of many in the political arena, the judicial realm, the entertainment industry and increasingly in the religious realm as well. It is an imperative that we must stand for life! Joining us to discuss these issues is Victor Nieves. Victor is President of the Life Issues Institute which was founded in 1991 to serve the educational needs of the pro-life movement. Victor has had a pro-life passion from a young age while working in state House and Senate campaigns in Missouri. He has a degree in Political Science with a dual focus on American government and Constitutional law. More Information: lifeissues.org

Regardless of the era, Israel has been hated and warred against. History shows this during the biblical era of the Philistines, the Canaanites, the Midianites and the Amalekites. In modern times, anger against the Jewish nation has been fueled by the rampant spreading of antisemitism through entities such as Hamas, Hezbollah, Iran, Turkey, or Islam. Did you know more resolutions against Israel have come before the United Nations than any other nation in the world? Did you know that the vast majority of the world's nations are regularly voting against Israel? This is a nation only the size of New Jersey, yet they've been despised and warred against throughout all of human history. Under such international pressure, it's truly a miracle that Israel has survived. Why all the hatred? Why have all these forces been unable to destroy Israel? The answer lies in the fact that this is not a battle of flesh and blood, but this is a spiritual battle that has ensued from the beginning ...

This video explores the life, legacy, and theological significance of C.S. Lewis, emphasizing his journey from atheism to Christian faith, shaped by personal loss, intellectual inquiry, and the influence of friends like J.R.R. Tolkien. It highlights Lewis's masterful use of imagination, storytelling, and reason to communicate Christian truth, exemplified in works like Mere Christianity, The Problem of Pain, and Till We Have Faces. The narrative underscores his role as a modern apologist who made faith accessible through allegory, philosophical argument, and vivid narrative, bridging the gap between intellect and heart. His enduring impact is rooted in his ability to engage audiences shoulder-to-shoulder, using clarity, reason, and imaginative depiction to convey timeless spiritual truths. The sermon also corrects a myth about Lewis's relationship with Tolkien, affirming their deep friendship until Lewis's final days. Ultimately, Lewis's life and writings remain a powerful testament to the transformative power of faith, reason, and story in the modern world.

The video uses the burial of Henry VIII in St. George's Chapel as a meditation on the universal realities of death—its humility, finality, and the eternal destinies it determines. It emphasizes that no amount of power, wealth, or fame can escape the dignity of death, which levels all people before God. Drawing from Scripture, it highlights Christ's authority over death and Hades, underscoring the critical choice between two eternal outcomes. The sermon then turns to the theme of legacy, challenging listeners to reflect on how they will be remembered and whether their lives reflect a faithful stewardship of God's grace. Ultimately, it calls for daily living in light of eternity, knowing that on the day of judgment, one's true self will be revealed before Christ.

The video centers on the profound spiritual legacy of Anne Boleyn, highlighting her faith and final prayers as she faced execution under Henry VIII. Drawing from her personal prayer, it emphasizes Christ's sacrificial love—born, suffering, and dying for humanity's sake—and the transformative power of His blood to cleanse sin and sustain faith. The preacher reflects on her dignified death, her forgiveness toward her accusers, and her intercession for the king and future generations, underscoring how God often works through suffering to bring about lasting good. Though her earthly life ended in injustice, her faith and legacy point to a greater truth: that God's purposes transcend human judgment and that true victory lies in eternal hope. The sermon concludes with a reverent affirmation of her spiritual triumph, affirming that her life, though cut short, became a testament to grace, redemption, and divine sovereignty.