Podcasts about Freedom of religion

How Do Grants To Colleges REALLY Work? And Does A Religious School Have Freedom Of Religion?

Today's HeadlinesAfghanistan's public executions reveal fear-based grip of TalibanPractical ways you can help imprisoned believers in IranBibles for the World joins new outreach opportunities

New South Wales' Conversion Practices Ban Act has just come into effect — along with guidelines from Anti-Discrimination NSW that many Christian leaders believe overstep the legal boundaries and impact ordinary pastoral ministry.We are joined by legal expert Associate Professor Neil Foster, South Sydney Bishop Michael Stead, and Summer Hill Anglican Assistant Minister Simon Swadling. Together, we unpack the implications of the new law for Christian preaching, prayer, counselling, and discipleship — especially in matters of sexuality, marriage, and gender.We discuss:The difference between the legislation and the government's explanatory materialsThe implications for pastors, parents, and churchesThe tone and posture of faithful gospel ministry in a hostile legal environmentWhy some pastors are calling for civil disobedience — and others for restraintReach Australia National ConferenceReach Australia's National Conference is from 19 to 22 May 2025 on the Central Coast of NSW. This year's theme is URGENT: The Necessary Task of Mission Before Christ Returns. For more info.Anglican AidAnglican Aid - To find out more about how to support Anglican Aid. The Church CoA website and app platform built specifically for churches: http://www.thechurchco.com Dominic Steele's preaching at Village Subscribe to Dominic Steele's weekly sermons from the Village Church website. Support the show--Become a regular financial supporter of The Pastor's Heart via Patreon.

Catholic Archbishop accuses Satanists of stealing consecrated host, Arizona jumps on school chaplain bandwagon, school board amends religious release policy, evangelicals don't believe in science (surprise!), federal judge in Utah sides with psychedelic sacrament group in freedom of religion case, LDS podcasters in trouble with church after being a little too honest on their show, and the terrifying stance of many conservative Christians against empathy.

In almost every state, the Governor could stop what' scheduled to happen on the grounds of the State Capital on March 28.On that date, a satanic "black mass" is scheduled.The Founders had NO intention of allowing such a thing.If I were the Governor of Kansas, I could stop it easily.In this show, I describe how I'd do that.-----Please also prayerfully consider supporting my show at www.DougBillings.usClick on the "donate" tab and contribute $5 a month. It's easy to set up. This helps me continue to offer the show free of charge and produce it.

Executive orders lose weight when worldviews are at war.  __________ Get access to over 200 expert-led videos on topics like identity, culture, and theology at identityproject.tv. 

In today's episode, renowned academic and legal scholar Professor Joseph H.H. Weiler speaks with Matt about The Trial of Jesus – connecting the historical event as a lens for understanding justice, religious pluralism, and democracy. The examination leads us through the limits of state neutrality in matters of faith, the balance between freedom of and from religion, and the evolving role of digital platforms. Professor Weiler shares perspectives from his extensive legal scholarship while reflecting on the intersection of theology, democracy, and technological change in our modern world. An incredibly poignant episode that is a must-listen.Note: This episode was recorded in Dec 2024.Links & References: References:The Trial of Jesus - First Things | By J.H.H. WeilerSanhedrin trial of Jesus - WikipediaThe Christian Europe by J.H.H. Weiler | Una Europa cristiana - Ediciones Encuentro“La Rochefoucauld voice in our ear” | François de La Rochefoucauld (writer) - WikipediaNostra aetate [EN]Second Vatican Council - Wikipedia“imitatio Dei” | Imitation of God - WikipediaLautsi v. Italy - Wikipedia"Laïque” (FR) = “secular”European Convention on Human RightsStatement of Micah | Why Micah 6:8? | Westmont CollegeGuarini Colloquium on Legal Controls of Digital Platforms | NYU School of LawSALVIFIC | English meaning - Cambridge DictionaryVoltairean - Wiktionary, the free dictionaryOlga Tokarczuk - WikipediaThe Books of Jacob by Olga Tokarczuk - WikipediaThe Books of Jacob by Olga Tokarczuk: 9780593087503 | PenguinRandomHouse.comTelos - Wikipedia “goal” Bios:J.H.H. Weiler is University Professor at the NYU Law School and a Senior Fellow at the Center for European Studies at Harvard. He served previously as President of the European University Institute, Florence.  Prof. Weiler is Co-Editor-in-Chief of the European Journal of International Law (EJIL) and the International Journal of Constitutional Law (ICON). Among his Honorary Doctorates there is one in Theology awarded by the Catholic University of America. In 2022, he received the Ratzinger Prize awarded by Pope Francis.J.H.H.'s Links:J.H.H. Weiler - Biography | NYU School of LawFreedom Of and From Religion in Democracies by J.H.H. Weiler | Combinations Magazine by RxCMatt Prewitt (he/him) is a lawyer, technologist, and writer. He is the President of the RadicalxChange Foundation.Matt's Social Links:ᴍᴀᴛᴛ ᴘʀᴇᴡɪᴛᴛ (@m_t_prewitt) / X Connect with RadicalxChange Foundation:RadicalxChange Website@RadxChange | TwitterRxC | YouTubeRxC | InstagramRxC | LinkedInJoin the conversation on Discord.Credits:Produced by G. Angela Corpus.Co-Produced, Edited, and Audio Engineered by Aaron Benavides.Executive Produced by G. Angela Corpus and Matt Prewitt.Intro/Outro music by MagnusMoone, “Wind in the Willows,” is licensed under an Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 3.0 International License (CC BY-NC-SA 3.0)

In this episode, you'll learn the answer to the tenth possible question on your U.S. Citizenship Civics Test, "What is freedom of religion?" In addition to the question and answer, Andrea will provide a brief history lesson as well to help you understand the question and answer.As you prepare for your U.S. Citizenship Test, you can download my "Audio Pack", which includes all 100 civics lessons, a Citizenship Guide, and Audio Flash Cards for easy memorization of all 100 questions & answers at StudyWithAndrea.com/USA.#USCitizenship, #CitizenshipTest, #NaturalizationTest, #USHistory, #CivicsTest, #USGovernment, #CitizenshipPreparation, #ImmigrationServices, #NewAmericans, #USCitizenshipTestQuestions, #USCitizenshipStudyMaterials, #CitizenshipTraining, #USALearning, #CitizenshipResources, #AmericanHistory, #USConstitution, #BranchesOfGovernment, #RightsAndResponsibilities, #USSymbols,Support the show

Many believe the Biden administration, happily and now an historical footnote, fostered an anti-Christian approach to politics, culture, and lifestyle generally. That was so even though Biden was a self-proclaiming Catholic Christian.In the Biden administration, there really were none in high positions who were publicly confessing Christians. That of course, under the Trump administration, has significantly changed, and changed for the better. There are those in leadership in America now who come to their awesome responsibilities as public citizens and representatives of WE THE PEOPLE with a biblical influence in their lives, even an outright Christian testimony. What a blessing that is for America, for Christianity, and for:FREEDOM OF RELIGIONfor all Americans, the FIRST AMENDMENT really at work!I do hope and pray that you know by heart, by memory, those First Amendment freedoms. They include and especially so:THE FREEDOM OF RELIGION.The freedom to practice any religion of choice. Or, none at all. Your call. But there can be no restriction on religious freedom and worship of any kind, so says the First Amendment. Let people believe and worship as they please. We The Christians, born again, evangelical, denominational, Roman Catholic, are free not only to worship as we please, but to believe as we please. Few countries in this modern age allow that, and so many nations abridge that freedom, attack it, attempt to control it, or even eliminate it. Not so with the Trump administration. Trump has pledged to reinvigorate the old Christian America, to respect Christianity and all its forms, and to make absolutely certain that there is no persecution, disrespect, or attempts to control this precious faith.And the same for Jews. Antisemitism is on the rise, one of the most ugly things in the entire history of mankind and now even resurrected today. So many politicos, academics, and even many in business and higher up in corporations turn a blind eye or actually foster antisemitism. That will all end under the Trump administration. Amen to that.And there is absolute freedom to worship for all other religions, including Islam, the Hindu religion, and any other legitimate religion. That is the American promise, the Constitutional guarantee, that sacred Frist Amendment freedom and it will be respected more than ever, more than under the administration of Obama or Biden, as the Constitution has always promised.That beloved First Amendment also guarantees freedom of speech and press. More than ever, that will be reinvigorated and protected. Both such freedoms are absolutely essential with regard to the full and free practice of religion.And the same for the other First Amendment freedoms guaranteed by the Constitution, namely freedom of assembly and freedom of petition. Churches, gatherings, services, the congregations of people in worship can feel the old constitutional freedoms under the Trump administration more than ever. Amen to that. Make it happen President Donald J. Trump, MAKE IT HAPPEN!DEFENSE. Our Department of Defense needs change, even radical change back. It has become woke, socialized, racially concerned, all to the detriment of its clear and primary priority and mission, namely, the development and growth of the greatest military, army, navy, and marines, and more, that the world has ever known. We need an aggressive, remade and revitalized Department of Defense and branches of the military. We have threats to our great country like never before, threats from China, especially China in this modern day and age, and our old nemesis Russia, and North Korea, a rising nuclear power, and of course Iran, which literally hates the Great Satan, the America we love. All four and more would love to see the end of America and given the right circumstances, whether all-out war, or terrorism, or limited combat, they are ready, hatred brimming, to destroy America or as much of it as they can.Secretary of Defense, Pete Hegseth, intends to change the department, bring in new leadership, develop meaningful financial budgets and the support of Congress and develop the weapons, offensive and defensive, which our country desperately needs, especially to keep pace with China. It seems inevitable that we will have warfare of some sort with China sometime in the future, perhaps the near future.We, America, must be ready!THE JUDICIAL SYSTEM. More than ever judges at any level of the federal judiciary and all the way up to the Supreme Court of the United States (SCOTUS) will play an important and primary role in the development of the philosophy, policies, and future of our country. There are many, very many, judgeships unfilled and can be filled by the appointments of the president of the United States. President Trump intends to do just that. He is well aware of the need to appoint judges and the right kind of judges, fair thinking judges who will make the right decisions for America. In the first Trump administration, 2017-2021, Trump nominated three Supreme Court justices, all were confirmed by the Senate, and all were fair minded or conservative leaning. They were the outstanding scholars including:1.Neil Gorsuch2.Anthony Kennedy3.Amy Coney BarrettMuch litigation will be decided by the Supreme Court, critical for America, and there will be many emergency hearings on the basis of critical and immediate need of our country, which will be decided upon by the Supreme Court in short order. Trump has issued dozens of Executive Orders, many are being challenged by liberals, radicals, and democrats, and the Supreme Court will be more active with emergency hearings perhaps than in any other administration. We can only hope for fair results, for the vast majority of those executive orders are exactly what America needs, they are legal, thorough, and they create the change-back which again, our country desperately needs. We were under Biden on a pathway to Socialism, even Marxism, and so many of these executive orders put a stop to so much of that. I say Amen to that, and I trust you do as well. What do you think of the first six weeks in office of Donald J. Trump?Franklin Graham, the marvelous evangelical evangelist and pastor, son of perhaps the greatest evangelist ever in the history of America, Billy Graham, prays himself that President Trump will surround himself with men and women who will give him Godly counsel and advice, and urges us, we the Christian people of America, to do the very same. I do hope and pray that you will. President Trump will be challenged the world over, and especially by China, Russia, North Korea, and Iran. But Trump is tough, no nonsense, determined, and not at all intimidated, and no nation or foreign leader will intimidate him no matter what they do. As world events unfold in the next four years, WE THE PEOPLE should both:WATCH AND PRAY.We should follow the advice of the Apostle Paul in I Timothy 2:1-3, where this God-sent apostle admonishes us as follows:“THEREFORE, I EXHORT FIRST OF ALL THAT SUPPLICATIONS, PRAYERS, INTERCESSIONS, AND GIVING OF THANKS BE MADE FOR ALL MEN, FOR KINGS, AND ALL WHO ARE IN AUTHORITY, THAT WE MAY LEAD A QUIET AND PEACEABLE LIFE IN ALL GODLINESS AND REVERENCE FOR THIS IS GOOD AND ACCEPTABLE IN THE SIGHT OF GOD OUR SAVIOR.”So, my fellow Christians, prayers. And intercessions. And giving of thanks. So that WE THE PEOPLE may lead a quiet and peaceable life, and be assured of the rights in the Constitution which are justly ours. Why? Because this is good, says Paul, and not only acceptable in the sight of God our savior, but what this God, our Lord Jesus Christ wants for us.So, my fellow Americans, pray for President Trump, and all who advise him, all of our leaders, secretaries of various departments, our Congress, House, and Senate, our courts and our Supreme Court, pray for all of them. Pray for anyone who is in authority and who works for us. Pray that the wisdom of God Almighty will guide President Trump and all political others so that America can be great again. Pray thatthe promises of Donald J. Trump will be fulfilled that indeed, the four years of the second Trump administration will:MAKE AMERICA GREAT AGAIN (MAGA)!

In this episode, we're talking about how America has real leadership again under Trump's administration, the importance of deporting illegal immigrants to restore law and order, and why we need to confirm RFK Jr. for the good of American health and wellbeing. We'll break down the policies that actually put America first, expose the chaos that's unfolded since, and discuss how we can push for real positive change for our country. We also need to focus on how we (desperately) need a separation of business and state.—https://noblegoldinvestments.com/invest/gold-ira/

www.commsolutionsmn.com- We haven't talked about an old friend of the show for a long time, but recent events necessitate the walk down memory lane. We have a long history with one, John Budziszewski (aka Johnny B). We've been immersed in the world of politics for a long time, so we know the laws pretty well. Because he recently crossed the line in professional decorum with us, we put out an independent expenditure piece regarding his race. All this went down pretty late in the race, and we weren't working in the city at all, but decided to put it out, because John has caused trouble on the council for a while, tried to get our friend Jeff Kolb tossed off the West Metro Fire Board for disagreeing with him, and then the issue at the recent council meeting. John decided to file a complaint against us based on zero evidence and with a complete lack of understanding of the law. The Fair Campaign Practices Act sets a $750 threshold of expenditures and allows for pamphleteering in a campaign. The Supreme Court said that freedom of political speech is a necessary protection against tyranny. But John digs tyranny and censorship, so he filed a complaint to try and censor us to cause a chilling effect. The honorable judge dismissed it within one day. Unfortunately for John, we're not afraid of him. The best disinfectant is sunlight. We will never be quiet. We will not be intimidated. If you do something wrong, we will let the world know about it.  So we'll spill all of the dirt here. Also, President Trump has created a bunch of short videos that lay out his aggressive agenda, calling it Agenda 47. He's bringing in tough candidates to staff his administration; RFK Jr, Tulsi Gabbart, Kash Patel, Elon Musk, Vivek, and others that will root out the deep state and restore our republic. We all know that he plans on closing the border, finishing the wall, and deporting a huge number of people that illegally crossed our border. That will be a huge part of his agenda. He wants to restore our place of energy independence, restoring fracking and drilling. He wants to kill the Green New Deal on day one. He wants to keep the US Dollar as the world reserve currency. Election integrity is on President Trump' short list as well. The president-elect wants to rebuild America's great cities into something we can be proud of again. In this episode, we talk a little education, a little energy, a little border, and lay out Angeda 47 so we can all follow along as President Trump implements his plan.

In this episode, you'll learn the answer to the tenth possible question on your U.S. Citizenship Civics Test, "What is freedom of religion?" In addition to the question and answer, Andrea will provide a brief history lesson as well to help you understand the question and answer.As you prepare for your U.S. Citizenship Test, you can download my "Audio Pack", which includes all 100 civics lessons, a Citizenship Guide, and Audio Flash Cards for easy memorization of all 100 questions & answers at StudyWithAndrea.com/USA.#USCitizenship, #CitizenshipTest, #NaturalizationTest, #USHistory, #CivicsTest, #USGovernment, #CitizenshipPreparation, #ImmigrationServices, #NewAmericans, #USCitizenshipTestQuestions, #USCitizenshipStudyMaterials, #CitizenshipTraining, #USALearning, #CitizenshipResources, #AmericanHistory, #USConstitution, #BranchesOfGovernment, #RightsAndResponsibilities, #USSymbols,Join our exclusive webinar on November 21, 2024, to learn proven strategies for acing the TOEFL test! Discover expert tips on mastering each section, improving your test-taking skills, and boosting your confidence. Whether you're aiming for a high score or looking for last-minute advice, this session has you covered. Register now at www.EnglishEveryDay.com/TOEFL and take your TOEFL prep to the next level! Join us on November 21, 2024, for an exclusive webinar packed with strategies to help you ace the TOEFL test! Gain valuable insights on each section, boost your confidence, and refine your test-taking skills. Whether you're aiming for a top score or seeking last-minute guidance, this session is for you. Secure your spot today at www.EnglishEveryDay.com/TOEFL and elevate your TOEFL prep! Support the show

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.

Fired from his teaching job because he refused to use “proper pronouns”, Peter Vlaming and his attorney, Alliance Defending Freedom’s Tyson Langhofer, join host Joseph Backholm to tell his story and unpack the five year long legal battle of protecting his rights to free speech and religion. One minute Peter is teaching a French class and the next he is put on administrative leave. Five years ago, Peter had to decide if he was going to stand by his beliefs or bend to the school board when one of his long-time students came out as transgender. While Peter used the student’s male name, the board said that wasn’t enough and required him to use “he/him” pronouns even when the biological female student was not around. Although the journey was long and the battles hard, Peter shares what he has learned, how the Lord provided, and encouragement for anyone walking through this same experience. Listen now to how one teacher stood for his beliefs and the effect this case will have on free speech for years to come. Read ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Washington Stand⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, featuring news and commentary from a biblical worldview. Published by ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Family Research Council⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.

Fired from his teaching job because he refused to use “proper pronouns”, Peter Vlaming and his attorney, Alliance Defending Freedom's Tyson Langhofer, join host Joseph Backholm to tell his story and unpack the five year long legal battle of protecting his rights to free speech and religion. One minute Peter is teaching a French class and the next he is put on administrative leave. Five years ago, Peter had to decide if he was going to stand by his beliefs or bend to the school board when one of his long-time students came out as transgender. While Peter used the student's male name, the board said that wasn't enough and required him to use “he/him” pronouns even when the biological female student was not around. Although the journey was long and the battles hard, Peter shares what he has learned, how the Lord provided, and encouragement for anyone walking through this same experience. Listen now to how one teacher stood for his beliefs and the effect this case will have on free speech for years to come.

Fired from his teaching job because he refused to use “proper pronouns”, Peter Vlaming and his attorney, Alliance Defending Freedom’s Tyson Langhofer, join host Joseph Backholm to tell his story and unpack the five year long legal battle of protecting his rights to free speech and religion. One minute Peter is teaching a French class and the next he is put on administrative leave. Five years ago, Peter had to decide if he was going to stand by his beliefs or bend to the school board when one of his long-time students came out as transgender. While Peter used the student’s male name, the board said that wasn’t enough and required him to use “he/him” pronouns even when the biological female student was not around. Although the journey was long and the battles hard, Peter shares what he has learned, how the Lord provided, and encouragement for anyone walking through this same experience. Listen now to how one teacher stood for his beliefs and the effect this case will have on free speech for years to come. Read ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Washington Stand⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, featuring news and commentary from a biblical worldview. Published by ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Family Research Council⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.

www.commsolutionsmn.com- We're on the eve of the first (and maybe only) presidential debate. We set it up and give you our predictions, not only on the outcome, but on the press, the process, and what must happen. Nations around the world wink at having a freedom of speech, but in America, we are the only nation that has it enshrined in our constitution. Unfortunately, we are seeing it eroding in this nation as well. It's still way worse in other countries, but if we're not careful, it's going to come here. We have seen Europe and Brazil begin to go after speech that they don't like, shutting down important businesses and even wanting those that they believe to speak "hate speech" extradited to that nation to stand trial and be punished. Even in this nation, speech is being stifled. Social media companies are having to admit that the government is forcing them to censor speech around certain topics that are bad for the Democrats or go against their policies.

What is going on for teachers in the land of 10,000 lakes? Host Joseph Backholm is joined by senior attorney at the Upper Midwest Law Center, James Dickey, for a conversation unpacking what teachers are going through in Minnesota. Recently, the Professional Educator Licensing Standards Board in Minnesota declared that teachers must affirm the gender of their students - and if they don't, they "can teach at a private school" (direct quote from the state). James and his law firm are standing in the gap for teachers as the state takes a very controversial position requiring all public school teachers to conform to their standards or not be licensed to teach in Minnesota. Give this episode a listen to learn more about how Minnesota and Governor Walz are infringing upon Minnesotans' personal freedoms.

What is going on for teachers in the land of 10,000 lakes? Host Joseph Backholm is joined by senior attorney at the Upper Midwest Law Center, James Dickey, for a conversation unpacking what teachers are going through in Minnesota. Recently, the Professional Educator Licensing Standards Board in Minnesota declared that teachers must affirm the gender of their students - and if they don't, they "can teach at a private school" (direct quote from the state). James and his law firm are standing in the gap for teachers as the state takes a very controversial position requiring all public school teachers to conform to their standards or not be licensed to teach in Minnesota. Give this episode a listen to learn more about how Minnesota and Governor Walz are infringing upon Minnesotans' freedoms.

What is going on for teachers in the land of 10,000 lakes? Host Joseph Backholm is joined by senior attorney at the Upper Midwest Law Center, James Dickey, for a conversation unpacking what teachers are going through in Minnesota. Recently, the Professional Educator Licensing Standards Board in Minnesota declared that teachers must affirm the gender of their students - and if they don't, they "can teach at a private school" (direct quote from the state). James and his law firm are standing in the gap for teachers as the state takes a very controversial position requiring all public school teachers to conform to their standards or not be licensed to teach in Minnesota. Give this episode a listen to learn more about how Minnesota and Governor Walz are infringing upon Minnesotans' personal freedoms.

Laws affecting abortion are changing both in good and bad ways. And we'll talk about the shocking details looking into violence against women around the world.   Recommendations Tom Lake by Anne Patchett Upcoming Lighthouse Voices with Samuel D. James Segment 1 - Where Are We on Abortion? BBC: Abortion clinic payout woman shocked at prayer arrest 7 activists convicted of FACE Act violations by blockading Michigan abortion clinic Trump says he opposes six-week abortion ban adopted by his home state of Florida Segment 2 - Violence Against Women WORLD: Open Doors discusses religious persecution with UN Taliban vice and virtue laws provide ‘distressing vision' for Afghanistan, warns UN envoy Open Doors: World Watch List 2024 Breakpoint: The Case Against the Sexual Revolution Segment 3 - Loss of Institutional Trust for Information Mark Zuckerberg Says White House Was ‘Wrong' to Pressure Facebook on Covid __________ Get access to recordings from the 2024 Colson Center National Conference with your gift of any amount at colsoncenter.org/august. Register for the upcoming Lighthouse Voices featuring Samuel D. Jones, author of Digital Liturgies: Rediscovering Christian Wisdom in an Online Age, at colsoncenter.org/lighthouse.

A Christian organization in Washington State has proven that it is being injured by a state bias law. A federal appeals court recently reversed a lower court decision and revived the group's case against state officials. Senior Counsel Ryan Tucker with ADF joins us with the details on this positive update!

In this episode, you'll learn the answer to the tenth possible question on your U.S. Citizenship Civics Test, "What is freedom of religion?" In addition to the question and answer, Andrea will provide a brief history lesson as well to help you understand the question and answer.As you prepare for your U.S. Citizenship Test, you can download my "Audio Pack", which includes all 100 civics lessons, a Citizenship Guide, and Audio Flash Cards for easy memorization of all 100 questions & answers at StudyWithAndrea.com/USA.Support the Show.

Fathom The Good Home-Schooling Curriculum - https://fathomthegood.com/ Are things getting better or are things getting worse? Your answer may determine your political philosophy. Do you believe there is an almost continual progress through time (Aufhoben), or are things breaking down. One points toward a "Utopia," and the other toward a belief in dispensationalism.  The Church is caught walking the tightrope on these two arcs as seen with the RFMA. They want to protect the Church and its practices taking a more "dispensational" approach while going along with a progressive arc of time on the LGBTQ issues. A US judge declared Google an illegal monopoly. The manipulation of information on social media platforms threatens free speech. Political demographics are shifting on both sides.  Website- www.cwicmedia.com 

The person and work of Jesus is still Good News, even in era like ours. __________ Get digital acces to the 2024 Colson Center National Conference with your gift of any amount to the Colson Center at colsoncenter.org/august. 

They took part in Apache ceremonies. Their schools expelled them for satanic activitiesThe Guardian, By Nicolle Okoren, on June 24, 2024https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/ng-interactive/2024/jun/24/apache-students-school-reservationThe podcast episode delves into the persistent and evolving issues surrounding the treatment of Indigenous people and their cultures, particularly in the context of education and religious freedom. The hosts take a historical journey back to the 1820s and beyond, examining how colonial attitudes and policies aimed at erasing Native American culture are still prevalent today. They highlight the relentless oppression and marginalization that Indigenous communities face, tracing this legacy back to the days of colonization and Christian missionary work.The discussion touches on the hypocrisy of certain Christian groups who condemn Indigenous rituals as blasphemous while engaging in their own religious ceremonies. This hypocrisy is exemplified in the treatment of Indigenous children in schools, where they are often penalized for participating in cultural practices. The hosts share personal anecdotes, including one about a child being labeled a Satanist and facing physical attacks for expressing non-religious and queer identities, emphasizing the extent of religious overreach in public education.The episode also critiques the current state of education for Indigenous children, pointing out the substandard conditions of Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) schools compared to mainstream public schools. They argue that the separate and unequal education system perpetuates a cycle of ignorance and marginalization, echoing the historical injustices of the Trail of Tears and other oppressive policies. The conversation underscores the need for a unified and equitable education system that respects and preserves Indigenous cultures rather than trying to erase them.The hosts express their frustration with the normalization of Christian dominance in American society, noting how this mindset allows for continued discrimination against non-Christian practices. They draw parallels between the historical treatment of Native Americans and contemporary issues of religious intolerance, warning that the increasing boldness of Christian nationalist rhetoric poses a threat to religious freedom and cultural diversity.In conclusion, the episode serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing struggles faced by Indigenous communities in preserving their heritage and resisting cultural erasure. It calls for greater awareness and action to address these injustices and protect the rights and identities of all people. #IndigenousRights   #ManifestDestiny #ChristianNationalism The Non-Prophets, Episode 23.27.2 featuring Phoebe Rose, Infidel64, and Jason Friedman.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-non-prophets--3254964/support.

(Air date May 19th, 2024) First Liberty attorney Hiram Sasser describes a situation happening (at the time of broadcast) that displaced a pro-Israel conference with only a few days' notice. The hosting hotel and conference center in Nashville, TN abruptly cancelled the event, claiming it was for safety reasons. The hotel had received complaints from pro-Palestinian activists over its doing business with the Christian conference organizers. Sasser also explains the legal ramification and possible precedents of this kind of business decision. * Note: Dave Ramsay offered to host the event at his business headquarters and the event took place as scheduled, although with additional expenses and logistical challenges.

How Do We Thank God For The Freedom We Have In Christ?

Celebrating America's Independence Day. Old Testament: Joshua 24: 16-28 New Testament: Galatians 5:22 Piano: “Battle Hymn of the Republic” arranged by Mark HayesRev. Raymond G. CoffmanPodcast HostZachary SmithPianist Audio Engineer Clark CoffmanLog Cabin Community ChurchVinings Georgia

This hour, Scoot shares his thoughts on the bill requiring the 10 Commandments to be posted in public school classrooms. Also, Scoot explores why is it so hard for people to admit that they're wrong.

This hour, Scoot talks about the Constitutionality of Gov. Landry requiring that Louisiana public schools display the 10 Commandments. 

I mention Aphrahat the Persian Sage, the Apostle Paul, Constantine the Great, King Sharpur II, Yazdegerd I, Nestorius of Constantinople, Bishop Mar Mari Immanuel, Mohammad, Genghis Kahn, Tamerlane, Aristotle, Plato, the Ming Dynasty, Doubting Thomas, Patrick Bets-David, Jacob Faturechi (  @faturechi  ), James McGrath, the Mandaeans, Mar Awa III, Bishop Barron, Robert Shlimon, Andrew Tate, Jake Brancatella the Muslim Metaphysician (  @TheMuslimMetaphysician  ), Daniel Haqiqatjou,  @ReasonandTheology  , Trent Horn, Elon Musk, Michael Servetus, John Calvin, Marian Hillar, Fausto Sozzini, Lelio Sozzini, Socinianism, John Locke, Benedict Spinoza, Pierre Bayle, Voltaire, David Hume, James Madison, Thomas Jefferson, John Adams, Justinian, Theodosius the Great, Khalil Andani, Shabir Ally, Robert Spencer, Paul Vanderklay (  @PaulVanderKlay  ), Tim Keller, Ayaan Hirsi Ali, (  @triggerpod  ), Tom Holland, Louis Perry, (  @maidenmothermatriarch  ), Aphrahat the Persian Sage - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1mH3BDSMIbg PBD (  @PBDPodcast  ) religious roundtable - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VzjoHtYN05k Jake on Transfigured - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=11wxT_FYRbs Jake on Mar Mari - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KHH-tP-RmXc&t=127s Tim Keller on secularism - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2n7BDf9KK-s&t=328s Ayaan Hirsi Ali - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b4VJofC_PFA&t=443s

Fr. Mike guides us through Jesus' warning of persecution to the people of Israel as we near the end of Mark's Gospel. He also touches on how Jesus' behavior in the Garden of Gethsemane should serve as an example to us, and explains why Judas' betrayal was so heartbreaking. Today's readings are Mark 13-14 and Psalm 68. For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/bibleinayear. Please note: The Bible contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.

Justice Alito warns of declining support for freedom of speech on college campusesNBC News, By Lawrence Hurley, on May 11, 2024https://www.nbcnews.com/politics/supreme-court/justice-alito-warns-declining-support-freedom-speech-college-campuses-rcna151817In a recent commencement speech at Franciscan University of Steubenville, Justice Samuel Alito sparked a discussion about the current state of free speech in the United States, particularly focusing on college campuses. Alito, addressing a crowd at this Catholic college in Ohio, expressed his concern that free speech is in sharp decline, especially in academic settings. This speech comes amidst a backdrop of national debates on free speech, often highlighting the tension between open expression and social and political unrest.Justice Alito's remarks seemed to indirectly reference ongoing controversies, such as the unrest over Gaza, to underline his point. He suggested that the erosion of free speech is particularly evident on college campuses, which he believes should be bastions of open dialogue and debate. However, Alito did not provide specific examples or elaborate on the exact nature of the threats he perceives. This lack of detail has led to speculation and critique, with some questioning whether his speech was more about defending particular viewpoints rather than an unbiased defense of free speech.The setting of Alito's speech is noteworthy. Franciscan University, known for its strong Catholic identity, may not necessarily reflect the diversity of thought found on many secular campuses. Critics argue that Alito's choice of venue and his broad statements on free speech could imply a bias towards protecting speech that aligns with certain ideological or religious perspectives. This has raised questions about whether Alito is advocating for a truly open discourse or merely for the freedom to express views that align with his own.Additionally, Alito's track record on the Supreme Court has been scrutinized in light of his speech. His voting history often shows a complex relationship with free speech issues. For instance, in 2011, Alito was the sole dissenter in a case that upheld the Westboro Baptist Church's right to picket military funerals, a decision grounded in free speech protections. Alito argued that such actions constituted a vicious verbal assault rather than protected speech. This decision suggests that Alito's commitment to free speech may have boundaries, particularly when it comes to speech that he views as harmful or offensive.Moreover, Alito  often advocates for holding onto traditional values, even in the face of changing societal norms. This perspective is evident in many of his opinions, where he frequently supports decisions that uphold religious and conservative values.In discussing the broader implications of Alito's speech, it is essential to consider the current political and social climate in the United States. The nation's highest court has become a battleground for deeply divisive issues, and justices' public comments are increasingly seen as reflections of their ideological leanings. Alito's speech, therefore, can be interpreted as part of a larger narrative about the role of free speech in a polarized society.Ultimately, Justice Alito's commencement speech serves as a provocative entry point into the ongoing debate over free speech in America. While his concerns about the erosion of free speech align with a broader conservative discourse, the lack of concrete examples and the specific context of his speech invite critical examination of his motives and the implications of his rhetoric. This speech underscores the enduring complexity and contentious nature of free speech issues in the modern era, particularly as they intersect with politics, religion, and education.The Non-Prophets, Episode 23.21.1 featuring Cynthia McDonald, Infidel64, Cindy Plaza and Kelley LaughlinBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-non-prophets--3254964/support.

Do you know that the U.S. Supreme Court ruling on Coach Kennedy praying after a football game now means it is legally OK to put crosses, Ten Commandments, and other religious representations on public lands? Thanks to First Liberty Institute, the largest First Amendment religious liberty law firm in the USA (firstliberty.org), Christians do not need to hide our most important religious symbols and expressions of our faith. Our guest host, Shaun Fredrickson, discusses major cases with Nathan Shackelford, attorney for First Liberty. Every Christian needs to know about this!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode, you'll learn the answer to the tenth possible question on your U.S. Citizenship Civics Test, "What is freedom of religion?" In addition to the question and answer, Andrea will provide a brief history lesson as well to help you understand the question and answer.As you prepare for your U.S. Citizenship Test, you can download my "Audio Pack", which includes all 100 civics lessons, a Citizenship Guide, and Audio Flash Cards for easy memorization of all 100 questions & answers at StudyWithAndrea.com/USA.Support the Show.

In episode 76, we kick off a mini-series talking about the First Amendment. We particularly zero in on the freedom of religion, its interpretations, and its colossal impact on the legal landscape.Connect with USS: United SHE Stands InstagramResources:First Amendment | Contents, Freedoms, Rights, & Facts | BritannicaU.S. Constitution - First Amendment | Resources | Constitution Annotated | Congress.gov | Library of CongressReligious Liberty: Landmark Supreme Court Cases - Bill of Rights InstituteCoercing Definition & Meaning - Merriam-WebsterThis episode was edited by Kevin Tanner. Learn more about him and his services here:Website: https://www.kevwyxin.com/Instagram: @kevwyxinIf you purchase from any links to resources or products, the show may make a small commission.

Dan Partland has amassed an impressive body of documentary film work including, American High, Intervention, American Style, American Race and Apple's top selling doc of all time, #Unfit, which studies the dangerous psychology of Donald Trump. Along with Rob Reiner, Dan is now bringing us God + Country, opening in theaters this Friday. Dan joins us to talk about the film which chronicles the current wave of American right wing extremism that is jeopardizing our nation's governing principles, our humanistic ideals and the Christian faith itself.God + Country visits the pews and pulpits of our nation's mega-churches from where we learn that right wing Christian extremists believe that America is fulfilling a Messianic prophecy and their God given mission is to see it through, by any means necessary. Dan tells us that this current wave of Christian extremism is rooted in racism and is determined to enshrine white Christians at the top of a cultural caste system.Christian nationalism is the belief that America should be a government mandated Christian nation. GOD & COUNTRY explores how a base of Christians has radically stoked a movement which is erasing the line between Church and State. Dan shares that there are almost 200,000,000 Americans who identify as Christians and many of them now fear that their faith is being hijacked by an extreme right wing political movement.Plus, Fritz and Weezy are recommending Genius: MLK/X on Nat Geo/Hulu/Disney + and Expats on Prime.Path Points of Interest:Dan Partland on IMDBDoc Shop ProductionsDan Partland on Twitter/X#UnfitGod and CountryGod and Country TrailerGod and Country on FacebookGod and Country on Twitter/XGod and Country on InstagramHollywood Reporter Article on God and CountryExpats on PrimeGenius: MLK/X - Nat Geo/Hulu/Disney

Andrew's website: https://andrewlseidel.com/  Jess Piper is @piper4missouri@TheHeartlandPOD on Twitter and Threadshttps://heartlandpod.com/JOIN PATREON FOR MORE - AND JOIN OUR SOCIAL NETWORK!“Change The Conversation”

In December 1791, the Bill of Rights was ratified by the United States. Though these 10 amendments to the Constitution are rarely mentioned after high school civics class, recent events here and abroad offer a glimpse of life without those rights and a reminder why they are so important as a defense against ideological overreach.  If a proposed new law passes the legislative process in Ireland, the famous Irish gift of gab will require government approval. As Kristen Waggoner of Alliance Defending Freedom recently noted in Newsweek, this potential restriction is, at best, vague. Even though it targets “hate,” it never defines what “hate” is. As she put it,   How is the public to know what kind of speech could be subject to prosecution? Given that “hate” is an impossible word to define in law (and is not defined in this bill), this paves the way for basically any expression considered unfavorable to be prosecuted in the future.  Vagueness in a national law is, in practice, an open invitation for state-based abuse, yet that is not this particular law's only problem. If it goes forward, refusing to give the police your password if they have a search warrant will be treated as a crime, and merely possessing material that “is likely to incite violence or hatred” might get you two years in jail. In other words, according to this proposed law, a crime doesn't even have to involve actually hating anyone or saying something that could be hateful. Anything that the powers-that-be think could possibly be interpreted as hateful would be sufficient. It's no wonder Waggoner added, “[I]t's not hard to imagine Ireland rapidly descending into an authoritarian state with the passage of this law.”  Back in June, Pauline O'Reilly of the Green Party defended the proposed law with a line directly out of the totalitarian playbook: “We are restricting freedom, but we're doing it for the common good.” This would include curtailing rights guaranteed in the Irish constitution “if people's views on others cause them deep discomfort...” Again, under this view, no crime has to be committed, if someone is caused “deep discomfort.” This kind of scrutiny will, of course, target some and not others. To paraphrase George Orwell's great line from Animal Farm, all discomfort is equally wrong, but some are more equal than others.   The way this inverted logic most often plays out is by the argument that not all speech is protected speech. Typically, this reasoning is followed by the necessary caveat, “After all, you can't yell fire in a theater!” This logical-sounding and necessary exception, however, becomes less exceptional when it is applied to more and more speech that a select few deem dangerous. In practice, at least in the United States, appeals to burning theaters have rarely, if ever, held up in court. As Jeff Kosseff notes in his new book Liar in a Crowded Theater, “[O]ne reason that a wider swath of false speech does not fall within an exception to the First Amendment is because regulation is simply not terribly effective at achieving the government's goals.”  The First Amendment has, so far, been an effective barrier against unnecessary limits on freedoms, even when done “for our good.” On the other hand, situations in European countries that lack anything like our First Amendment, not to mention the selective censorship at America's elite universities, expose how much can go wrong when there's nothing to limit the people in power from acting for our own good.   As C. S. Lewis put it in God in the Dock:  Of all tyrannies, a tyranny sincerely exercised for the good of its victims may be the most oppressive. It would be better to live under robber barons than under omnipotent moral busybodies. The robber baron's cruelty may sometimes sleep, his cupidity may at some point be satiated; but those who torment us for our own good will torment us without end for they do so with the approval of their own conscience.  The reason that the speech protections of the First Amendment, with its guarantees of liberty of conscience, do not exclude speech that is merely offensive is that inoffensive speech doesn't need protection. By allowing potentially and even truly wrong things to be said, the Bill of Rights ensures space for the truth to be heard, and for those committed to truth to make the case for it.  This Breakpoint was co-authored by Dr. Timothy Padgett. For more resources to live like a Christian in this cultural moment, go to breakpoint.org.

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In 2017, the Supreme Court ruled that to deny a church “an otherwise available public benefit on account of its religious status” is to violate the Free Exercise Clause of the Constitution. In that case, Trinity Lutheran Church of Columbia v. Comer, a Missouri church that operated a licensed preschool and daycare facility, applied for state “funds for qualifying organizations to purchase recycled tires to resurface playgrounds.”   Trinity Lutheran met all the qualifications of the program, but the state informed them that a grant would violate a state constitutional provision that “no money shall ever be taken from the public treasury, directly or indirectly, in aid of any church, section or denomination of religion.” Trinity Lutheran sued, claiming that because of the Free Exercise clause in the First Amendment, a government benefit cannot be withheld solely because of religion. In his majority decision, Chief Justice Roberts agreed, writing, “the exclusion of Trinity Lutheran from a public benefit for which it is otherwise qualified, solely because it is a church, is odious to our Constitution all the same, and cannot stand.”   The Trinity Lutheran case was only six years ago but, in a case of “those who forget history are doomed to repeat it,” Colorado is the latest state to “forget” something about which the Court has been very clear.  This is the inaugural year of Colorado's Universal Preschool Program, which funds 15 hours of preschool per week for every child in the state. To be a part of the program, the state is requiring that preschools sign a “service agreement” that includes a commitment to “not discriminate” on the basis of sexual orientation or so-called “gender identity.”  In August, the Denver Catholic Archdiocese, which operates 36 preschools and serves 1,500 kids a year, filed a lawsuit, noting that this “service agreement” would force them to hire teachers and administrators who do not hold to their faith commitments. Not only is this a case of “Trinity Lutheran all over again,” but it is another chapter in the never-ending story of public officials pressuring Christians to keep their faith out of public life.   Recently in Massachusetts, state officials denied an adoption license to a Catholic couple, claiming their faith made them “unsupportive” of transgender ideology. The state of Oregon similarly denied an adoption license to a young, widowed mother because she would not commit to taking a hypothetically gender-confused child to a gender clinic.    Years ago in a Breakpoint commentary, Chuck Colson described the jury selection process in the trial of Jack Kevorkian, the doctor accused of helping at least 27 of his patients kill themselves. Kevorkian's lawyer attempted to bar anyone who said their Christian faith forbids suicide from serving on the jury, claiming that belief made them unfairly biased.  "Religion has been increasingly relegated to the private sphere. Christians are welcome to participate in public life only if they leave their faith at home … [but] [t]he logic of Kevorkian's defense attorney could be applied to any criminal trial. If potential jurors can be excluded for believing that assisted suicide is immoral, what will be the next step? Will the attorneys of accused murderers be permitted to exclude jurors whose religion teaches that life is sacred?"  More than 25 years later, that dismal hypothetical seems less hypothetical. As the Colorado, Massachusetts, and Oregon stories reveal, some public officials are so hostile to the Christian faith, they would rather allow children in foster care to sleep on office floors in government buildings and remain in juvenile detention facilities than go to a home with religious parents.  Of course, there must aways be moral restrictions around who can and cannot adopt children and operate a preschool. Restrictions are necessary to protect children. However, some states are now operating from a moral framework that is exactly backward. The biblical woes against those who call right wrong and wrong right apply as much to government programs as they do to individuals.   It is a grave mistake to use irrational and false moral claims as the basis for these moral restrictions. In this upside-down world, children must be protected from religion rather than ideologies that threaten their minds, hearts, bodies, and most importantly relationships. Claiming to protect children, they are instead put in danger, subject to irreversible physical, psychological, and emotional damage.  Given how clear the Supreme Court has been about states discriminating against religious institutions, I suspect the state of Colorado will be forced to change this policy. Given how willing the state of Colorado is to defy clear Court teachings and target people of faith, I suspect they will resist for as long as possible. In the meantime, children will suffer because of the state's bigotry. If people of faith are told they “need not apply” for adoption licenses, preschool programs, serving on juries, feeding the homeless, advocating for the preborn, or caring for the sick and dying, who do they imagine will take their place?  This Breakpoint was co-authored by Maria Baer. For more resources to live like a Christian in this cultural moment, go to breakpoint.org. 

On September 26, the Colson Center is launching Breakpoint Forums, digital discussions about topics that matter. The first Breakpoint Forum will deal with this contentious idea of Christian nationalism. Joining me for this online discussion will be R.R. Reno, the editor-in-chief of First Things, an important journal of Christian thought, and Hunter Baker, professor of political science and dean at Union University. This online event will be September 26 at 8 p.m., ET. Registration is free, but you must sign up at breakpoint.org/forum. __________ Päivi Räsänen, a member of the Finnish Parliament, is currently on trial, charged with hate crimes against a minority group. To be specific, Räsänen is being accused of violating a Finnish law that prohibits “War Crimes and Crimes Against Humanity.” According to state prosecutors, Räsänen committed the crime by quoting the Bible in support of traditional understandings of human nature and sexuality.    While prosecutors claim that they're not attempting to restrict religion per se, only certain public expressions, they are attempting to decide what can and cannot be said and done in the name of religion. In fact, the prosecution openly admitted that “[t]he point” of their case “isn't whether [what Räsänen said] is true or not but that it is insulting” (emphasis added).  This important case will carry dangerous precedent for just how free the Free World remains. Christians and others concerned with liberty of conscience should support Räsänen and ADF International as they champion the first freedom in what is ostensibly a Christian nation. While everyone in Finland “technically” enjoys full religious freedom, it is only in the sense that no one is required to be a part of the state church. Both the dominant Lutheranism and the minority Eastern Orthodoxy there are privileged and receive tax funds from their members. However, this official faith has not kept Finns from drifting further into atheism and relativism, nor has it prevented the open hostility to religion evidenced in this egregious court case. As Dr. Andrew Walker tweeted about the trial, “The Christian Nationalist regime of Finland is currently persecuting and prosecuting a Christian Member of Parliament for daring to quote the Bible.”    Such is the problem when Christian is “in-name-only,” whether nations or individuals. Being “officially” Christian, in other words, isn't the same as actually being one. And this goes for “nationalism,” too.   We may appreciate a royal event that showcases the beauty of a deeply Christian liturgy to rest of the world and consider that a type of Christian nationalism, but other types are far more unsettling. For example, a Russian Orthodox priest recently blessed an image of notorious dictator and persecutor Joseph Stalin, saying that Christians should be grateful that Stalin “created” so many martyrs.   Whether we're talking about the Finns, the English, the Russians, or the Americans, the claim to be a Christian nation does not a Christian nation make. Even more important is defining the idea and determining if the idea of a Christian nation is even biblical, and in what sense. More than a few European nations remain Christian on paper, with laws that enshrine the Christian faith in a privileged position. However, many of these nations are among the most secular in the world, with church attendance falling consistently for the past few decades. At the same time, those voices that praise the demise of “Christendom” will soon realize just what the cultural rejection of Christianity entails.  The relationship between Church and state and culture is and has always been contentious. The recent cultural debate about the term “Christian nationalism” is confusing because participants in the debate tend to use mutually exclusive definitions of the term. For some, it's idolatry and a confusion of Gospel mission. For others, it's faithfulness– and the only thing remaining to prevent our children's co-option into an increasingly immoral culture. There are many questions that must be answered, for example:  With the culture and state so hostile to the Church, isn't it time to stand up for ourselves? Will nations exist in heaven? If God made the nations, then why have some disappeared? Even if Christian nationalism has its issues, is it the lesser of two evils? Why do critics of Christian nationalism only complain about partisanship when it's conservatives getting political? Is there a way we can be faithful in the public square without getting labeled “Christian nationalist”? Is longing for our nation to become more Christian the same as being a Christian nationalist? Weren't all Christians Christian nationalists until the American Revolution?  On September 26, the Colson Center is launching Breakpoint Forums, digital discussions about topics that matter. The first Breakpoint Forum will deal with this contentious idea of Christian nationalism. Joining me for this online discussion will be R.R. Reno, the editor-in-chief of First Things, an important journal of Christian thought, and Hunter Baker, professor of political science and dean at Union University. This online event will be September 26 at 8 p.m., ET. Registration is free, but you must sign up at breakpoint.org/forum.   All who register will receive a link to the recording of the forum after it's over.   This Breakpoint was co-authored by Dr. Timothy Padgett. For more resources to live like a Christian in this cultural moment, go to breakpoint.org. 

John and Maria discuss the high and low points in the GOP presidential debate. A growing number of states are telling Christians they can't be foster parents and reaction to the song "Rich Men North of Richmond."    — Recommendations — The Making of Another Major Motion Picture Masterpiece by Tom Hanks Get your copy of Live Your Truth & Other Lies Section 1 - Worldview takeaways from the GOP Debate  "Mike Pence, Nikki Haley Spar Over Federal Abortion Ban at RNC Debate" "GOP Candidates Clash Over National Abortion Ban"  "Conservatives Praise Ramaswamy's Mention of Fatherless Epidemic" "Trump-Less Debate Draws Better-than-Expected 12.8 Million Viewers" "People forgot how to act in public" Section 2 - The War on Christians "Denver Archdiocese sues Colorado over right to deny preschool to LGBTQ families" "California Public Library Silences Female Athlete" "Librarian shuts down event after speaker refers to ‘transgender' athletes as male" "Christian mother sues state for denying adoption over her gender beliefs" "Federal lawsuit alleges religious exemption denial for Buena Vista preschool unconstitutional" Section 3 - Rich Men North of Richmond "It's Not Condescending to Speak the Truth" "The rise of Oliver Anthony and ‘Rich Men North of Richmond'"

Recently, ADF International's Lois McLatchie Miller tweeted out her “radical takes” for 2023: “1. Biological men shouldn't compete in women's sports. 2. Silent prayer is not a crime. 3. Ending the lives of babies in the womb is wrong.”   She then offered this conclusion: “Radicals of the past got to say things that were groundbreaking. We're stuck with defending the obvious.”  She's right. We ought not underestimate, at least if we take seriously Paul's description from the first chapter of Romans, how prone fallen humans are to deny what is obviously true and embrace what is obviously false. That's why, in this cultural moment, stating the obvious is so “radical.”   Still, reality eventually wins. For example, many Western nations are backing away from trans-extremism. Tragically, until they do, many lives will be ruined. Ideas have consequences; bad ideas have victims. Thus “radical” Christians must be ready to combat bad ideas and care for their victims. 

We often hear of folks forced to endure “sensitivity training” for holding opinions everyone did five years ago. But, in an unusual turn of events, a U.S. District court judge has ordered corporate lawyers for Southwest Airlines to undergo training with the Alliance Defending Freedom about the nature and importance of religious liberty.  On August 7, a U.S. District Court ruled that Southwest Airlines violated Charlene Carter's rights when they fired her for posting pro-life opinions on her personal social media. The ruling also declared that Southwest notify their flight attendants about protections for their religious views. Southwest did not follow through, and instead notified their flight attendants that the company policy did not violate their religious freedom. To say the least, the judge wasn't happy, ruling that more training was in order and that ADF was the group to provide it.     Not surprisingly, Southwest appealed the decision while media outlets feigned disbelief and expressed outrage. Hopefully the inconsistency will be obvious to everyone. 

Since it was legalized in 2016, Canada has increased pressure on doctors and hospitals to offer assisted suicide. Recently, an article in WORLD Magazine reported that Canadian authorities kicked a nonprofit called the Delta Hospice Society out of its rented building because they refused to kill their patients.  Before they closed, executives with the hospice said they had briefly considered registering as a “faith-based organization” to qualify for a religious exemption under Canadian law.  This is a cautionary tale that while religious exemptions are important, they do not offer protection from immoral laws. This is especially the case when the state dramatically limits who should be considered “religious” enough for an exemption. Faith cannot be reduced to names or titles or just evangelistic work. More importantly, a religious exemption cannot make an unjust law just.   So-called “Medical Aid in Dying” is exactly not aid in dying: It is aid to die, and that means it's not medical. Instead, it is harmful. 

In its most recent term, the United States Supreme Court strengthened free speech by ruling that business owners cannot be punished for expression consistent with their deeply held beliefs and by ruling that affirmative action practices in college admissions violates the constitutional prohibition of racial discrimination. All this on the heels of the landmark decision in the Dobbs case, which overturned Roe v. Wade and returned the issue of abortion law to the states. Again, unsurprisingly, the Court is being accused of replacing justice and the Constitution with partisan politics by pundits who decry the Court's conservative bias.  However, contrary to the critics, the Supreme Court's record reflects more of a broad consensus than partisan politics. Despite the dramatic ideological diversion of the administrations that appointed the Justices, almost half of the cases decided by the Court each term are unanimous. Though there are certainly outlier years, this was not one of them, and the trend lines have been fairly consistent since the 1950s.  Many critics argue that last year marked the end of the Supreme Court's “consensus,” pointing to the strong ideological divides on decisions like Dobbs, Carson v. Makin, and Kennedy v. Bremerton School District. After all, just 29% of the rulings were unanimous for the 2021-2022 term. 46% of the decisions, however, were ones in which at least eight of the nine justices ruled in agreement. That can hardly be considered a divided court.   During the 2022-2023 term, only six of the 57 cases considered were decided along ideological lines. Twenty-seven of the rulings, about 47%, were unanimous, and over half, 56%, were decided with eight of the nine members again in agreement. Even the New York Times didn't totally misrepresent the reality of these numbers. Of the 12 cases featured in an article summarizing the most recent Supreme Court term, only a third were decided along ideological lines.  This year, in fact, a number of rulings featured unexpected alliances and disagreements. In one majority opinion and three concurring opinions, Trump-appointed Justice Neil Gorsuch and Biden-appointed Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson were in agreement, favoring limits on government power. In a recent case regarding the artwork of Andy Warhol, Justices Sonia Sotomayor and Elena Kagan—appointed by the same administration and both considered progressive—were in strong disagreement with one another.   The willingness of Justices to work together often extends beyond the courtroom and can even result in cultivated friendships. The conservative iconic justice Antonin Scalia famously shared a friendship (and even vacationed) with progressive iconic justice Ruth Bader-Ginsburg. On the current court, Justice Sonia Sotomayor and Justice Clarence Thomas have cultivated a beautiful friendship despite their significant ideological differences. In her own words, Justice Sotomayor has “probably disagreed with [Justice Thomas] more than any other justice” but maintains a friendship with him because she considers him a “man who cares deeply about the court as an institution—about the people who work here.”  The current Court consists of justices appointed by four different administrations, two progressive and two conservative. Still, a general consensus remains. Whatever ideological fault lines exist within the Court are not always determinative of its rulings, as evidenced even in its past two terms. In other words, members of the Court have deep disagreements, but it should not be considered irredeemably partisan.   Often, those who bemoan the current state of the Court, consider it illegitimate, and call it a failed institution, only betray their own philosophical commitments. Namely, they have embraced a postmodern view of law and of the courts, which assumes that “to judge is an exercise of power,” not an exercise in the interpretation and application of the law. Thus, they cannot imagine that a ruling they do not like could be legitimate.  In contrast, we can be assured by the relevant facts that the recent legal victories for life and liberty are not the products of the Court's corruption but a genuine realization of justice for the nation.  This Breakpoint was co-authored by Jared Eckert. If you enjoy Breakpoint, leave a review on your favorite podcast app. For more resources to live like a Christian in this cultural moment, go to breakpoint.org. 

Fr. Mike guides us through Jesus' warning of persecution to the people of Israel as we near the end of Mark's Gospel. He also touches on how Jesus' behavior in the Garden of Gethsemane should serve as an example to us, and explains why Judas' betrayal was so heartbreaking. Today's readings are Mark 13-14 and Psalm 68. For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/bibleinayear. Please note: The Bible contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.