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The WorldView in 5 Minutes
ICE arrested 11 Iranian nationals, including an Iranian sniper; Muslim socialist beat Andrew Cuomo in NYC mayoral primary; Astronauts from India, Poland, and Hungary head to Int'l Space Station

The WorldView in 5 Minutes

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 26, 2025 9:17


It's Thursday, June 26th, A.D. 2025. This is The Worldview in 5 Minutes heard on 140 radio stations and at www.TheWorldview.com. I'm Adam McManus. (Adam@TheWorldview.com) By Jonathan Clark and Adam McManus Iranian Christians vulnerable to arrest, falsely accused of espionage Christians in Israel and Iran are experiencing fear and uncertainty during recent conflict between the two countries. Christians already face arrest in Iran for simply leading a house church. An Iranian believer told International Christian Concern, “The Iranian government is now arresting anyone caught taking or sharing photos and videos with news outlets. Christians are especially vulnerable, as they risk being accused of espionage and deemed a threat to national security. If their faith is discovered, the consequences are far worse.” Iran is ranked ninth on the Open Doors' World Watch List of the most difficult countries to be a Christian.  Hebrews 13:3 says, “Remember the prisoners as if chained with them—those who are mistreated—since you yourselves are in the body also.” ICE arrested 11 Iranian nationals, one served as Iranian army sniper U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement arrested 11 Iranian nationals over the weekend. The individuals entered the U.S. illegally, and one of them reportedly served as an Iranian Army sniper.  Officials are on high alert for extremist attacks after the U.S. bombed Iranian nuclear facilities on Saturday. Iran has threatened to carry out retaliatory terrorist attacks using sleeper cells in America.  Trump thrilled that NATO paying their fair share The NATO military alliance of western nations held its 2025 summit in the Netherlands this week. NATO countries agreed to raise defense spending to 5% of annual gross domestic product over the next 10 years. That's up from the current target of 2%. This comes after U.S. President Donald Trump has called on European countries to contribute more to the defense budget of the alliance. Listen to comments from Trump. TRUMP: “This is a monumental win for the United States, because we were carrying much more than our fair share. It was quite unfair, actually. But this is a big win for Europe and for actually, Western civilization.” Muslim socialist beat Andrew Cuomo in NYC Dem primary for mayor A Muslim socialist won the Democrat primary for New York City mayor on Tuesday. Remarkably, Zohran Mamdani, age 33, defeated former Democratic Governor Andrew Cuomo in the race. (Watch his election night victory speech) MAMDANI: “Tonight, we made history. (cheering) In the words of Nelson Mandela, ‘It always seems impossible until it is done.' (cheering)  My friends, we have done it. (cheering) I will be your Democratic nominee for the mayor of New York City.” (cheering)   Mamdani has served as a New York state lawmaker. He campaigned on making the Big Apple more affordable, calling for free public transit, rent freezes, and universal childcare. If elected, he would be the city's first Muslim mayor.  President Trump sounded off on Truth Social. He wrote, “Zohran Mamdani, a 100% Communist Lunatic, has just won the Dem Primary, and is on his way to becoming Mayor. We've had Radical Lefties before, but this is getting a little ridiculous. … He's got [U.S. Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez]. … and even our Great Palestinian Senator, Cryin' Chuck Schumer, ,,, groveling over him.” Two-thirds of churchgoers attend weekly The Exploring the Pandemic Impact on Congregations project released a new report on U.S. churchgoers this month. The survey found two-thirds of respondents attend services weekly. And over 80% report stable or increased attendance compared to five years ago.  The survey noted a positive outlook: “Many more respondents said their religious faith and spirituality had strengthened since the pandemic. Likewise, financial giving has increased, as has involvement and volunteering.” In terms of newcomers, 38% of churchgoers began attending their church since the COVID-19 pandemic. Of these new attenders, nearly a third never attended church before or are returning to church after years of not participating.  Astronauts from India, Poland and Hungary head to Int'l Space Station Astronauts from India, Poland, and Hungary blasted off for the International Space Station yesterday. It's the first time astronauts from those countries have gone to space in over 40 years. Axiom Space arranged the flight which launched from NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida.  The mission is part of NASA's effort to open space to private companies. Axiom is among several American space companies hoping to put their own space stations into orbit. The Polish astronaut on the mission said space “is not only for the biggest agencies anymore—space is for everyone.” Psalm 8:3-4 reminds us, “When I consider Your heavens, the work of Your fingers, the moon and the stars, which You have ordained, what is man that You are mindful of him, and the son of man that You visit him?” 8 Worldview listeners gave $3,375  to fund our annual budget And finally, toward our $123,500 goal by Monday, June 30th to fully fund The Worldview annual budget for our 6-member team, 8 listeners stepped up to the plate. Our thanks to Augustine in Auburn, California who gave $25, James in Lebanon, Oregon who gave $50 as well as Stephen in Adrian, Oregon and Mark in Grand Forks, North Dakota–both of whom gave $100. We're grateful to God for Richard in Camden Wyoming, Delaware who pledged $25/month for 12 months for a gift of $300, and Keith and Nicole in Aiken, South Carolina who pledged $50 per month for 12 months for a gift of $600. And we were touched by the generosity of Doreen in Caldwell, Idaho who gave $1,000, Shane in Columbia City, Indiana who $1,200, and Scooter in Naples, Florida who, as promised, matched twelve $1,000 donors with his matching gift of $12,000 which has already been incorporated into our previous total. Those 8 Worldview listeners gave a total of $3,375.  Ready for our new grand total? Drum roll please. (Drum roll sound effect) $70,908.55 (People clapping and cheering sound effect)   That means by this coming Monday, June 30th, we need to raise $52,591.45 in just 5 days. That's $10,518.29 per day! We are looking for 9 super donors. Could you give $10,000? Or perhaps you feel the Lord prompting you to become one of 3 businesspeople who could give $5,000? Or one of 5 businesspeople who could contribute $2,500? If so, those donations would total $37,500. Then, we would need another 6 people to pledge $100/month for 12 months for a gift of $1,200. And another 12 people to pledge $50/month for 12 months for a gift of $600? Please, go to TheWorldview.com and click on Give on the top right. If you want to make it a monthly pledge, click on the recurring tab. Help fund this Christian newscast for another year with accurate news, relevant Bible verses, compelling soundbites, uplifting stories, and practical action steps. I can see the finish line from here. Go to TheWorldview.com and click on Give. Close And that's The Worldview on this Thursday, June 26th, in the year of our Lord 2025. Follow us on X or subscribe for free by Spotify, Amazon Music, or by iTunes or email to our unique Christian newscast at www.TheWorldview.com.  Plus, you can get the Generations app through Google Play or The App Store. I'm Adam McManus (Adam@TheWorldview.com). Seize the day for Jesus Christ.

The WorldView in 5 Minutes
Students for Life to give away nearly 400,000 diapers, 313 attacks on Christians in India this year, U.S. Marshals rescued 60 missing children & arrested child predators

The WorldView in 5 Minutes

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 25, 2025 10:28


It's Wednesday, June 25th, A.D. 2025. This is The Worldview in 5 Minutes heard on 140 radio stations and at www.TheWorldview.com.  I'm Adam McManus. (Adam@TheWorldview.com) By Jonathan Clark and Adam McManus 313 attacks on Christians in India this year The United Christian Forum has recorded 313 attacks on Christians in India during the first five months of this year. That's over two attacks per day, a trend that has held since 2023. Attacks have risen significantly since 2014 when only 127 incidents were recorded A. C. Michael with United Christian Forum warned, “If this trend is not stopped immediately, it will threaten the identity and existence of the Indian Christian community in its motherland.” Please pray for the persecuted church in India. The country is ranked 11th on the Open Doors' World Watch List of the most difficult countries to be a Christian.  80% of young French Protestants optimistic about future The Protestant Federation of France released a survey of young Protestants in the country.  Seventy-seven percent of respondents cited the Bible as their primary source of spiritual information ahead of other sources like discussion groups and digital content. Eighty percent of these young Protestants in France are optimistic about the future compared to 58% of 15 to 30-year-olds nationally. Researchers noted that young Protestants view their faith as not just a personal but also a public commitment.  1 Timothy 4:12 says, “Let no one despise your youth, but be an example to the believers in word, in conduct, in love, in spirit, in faith, in purity.” Netanyahu commends President Trump for bombing Iran's nuclear sites Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu commended President Donald Trump for authorizing the June 22nd “Operation Midnight Hammer” which led to America's bombing of Iranian nuclear sites NETANYAHU: “Congratulations President Trump! Your bold decision to target Iran's nuclear facilities with the awesome and righteous might of the United States will change history. “In Operation Rising Lion, Israel has done truly amazing things. But in tonight's action against Iran's nuclear facilities, America has been truly unsurpassed. It has done what no other country on Earth could do. “History will record that President Trump acted to deny the world's most dangerous regime, the world's most dangerous weapons. His leadership today has created a pivot of history that can help lead the Middle East and beyond to a future of prosperity and peace. “President Trump and I often say, ‘Peace through strength!' First comes strength, then comes peace.” U.S. strike set back Iran's nuclear program by only a few months The New York Times reports that a preliminary classified U.S. report says the American bombing of three nuclear sites in Iran set back the country's nuclear program by only a few months. The strikes sealed off the entrances to two of the facilities but did not collapse their underground buildings. Before the attack, U.S. intelligence agencies had said that if Iran tried to rush to make a bomb, it would take about three months. After the U.S. bombing run and days of attacks by the Israeli Air Force, the report by the Defense Intelligence Agency estimated that the program had been delayed, but by less than six months. The report also said that much of Iran's stockpile of enriched uranium was moved before the strikes, which destroyed little of the nuclear material. Iran may have moved some of that to secret locations. Presidential Commission on Religious Liberty holds first meeting The Presidential Commission on Religious Liberty held its first meeting last Monday at the Museum of the Bible in Washington, D.C. Texas Republican Lt. Governor Dan Patrick chaired the meeting which included religious leaders and legal experts. Listen to comments from former U.S. Housing Secretary Dr. Ben Carson. CARSON: “This commission promotes freedom of beliefs and that spiritual aspect of our existence that advances civilization. We will strive to facilitate the maintenance of one nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all.” Back in May, President Donald Trump established the commission by executive order to advise him on protecting religious liberty in the United States. Students for Life to give away nearly 400,000 diapers Students for Life of America is planning the largest diaper giveaway this coming Saturday on Capitol Hill. The pro-life group will distribute 392,715 diapers. Each one represents an unborn baby murdered at Planned Parenthood abortion mills, according to its 2022-23 annual report. Kristan Hawkins, the president of Students for Life of America, said, “While this diaper drive is a large, singular feat, we hope it drives the pro-life movement to keep pushing Congress to defund abortion mills, hold up and encourage mothers and families, and be pillars of Life in their communities.” Proverbs 24:11 says, “Deliver those who are drawn toward death, and hold back those stumbling to the slaughter.” U.S. giving up 6.3% compared to 2023 A new report from Giving USA found that U.S. charitable giving increased to $592.5 billion in 2024. Total giving was up only 6.3% last year compared to 2023. Adjusted for inflation, it was up only 3.3%. Every type of recipient organization saw an increase in donations in current dollars. However, religious groups were the only ones to see a slight decrease in giving when adjusted for inflation. U.S. Marshals rescued 60 missing children & arrested child predators The U.S. Marshals Service rescued 60 missing children during an operation in Florida this month. The operation also led to the arrests of eight individuals, including child predators. William Berger, U.S. Marshal for the Middle District of Florida, said the operation “signifies the most successful missing child recovery effort in the history of the United States Marshals Service. … “The unique part of this operation was the fact that underaged, critically missing children … were not only recovered but were … provided with physical and psychological care. This operation further included follow-up assistance in hopes that these youths will not return to the streets to be further victimized.” 10 Worldview listeners gave $2,132  to fund our annual budget And finally, toward our $123,500 goal by Monday, June 30th to fully fund The Worldview annual budget for our 6-member team, 10 listeners stepped up to the plate. Our thanks to an anonymous donor who gave $7, Daniel and Abigail in Waterloo, Ontario, Canada who gave $25 as well as Luke in Bastrop, Texas and Glenn and Linda in Palmdale, California – both of whom gave $50. We're grateful to God for John in Kentwood, Michigan who gave $100, Robin in  Simsbury, Connecticut who gave $120, and Gena in Youngsville, Louisiana who gave $176. And we were touched by the generosity of Emilia in Greenwood, Missouri who gave $244, Thomas in Spokane, Washington who pledged $30 per month for 12 months for a gift of $360, and Nellie in Caldwell, Idaho who gave $1,000. Those 10 Worldview listeners gave a total of $2,132. Ready for our new grand total? Drum roll please. (Drum roll sound effect) $67,533.55 (People clapping and cheering sound effect)   That means by this coming Monday, June 30th, we need to raise a whopping $55,966.45 in just 6 days. That's $9,327.74 per day! We are looking for 9 super donors. Could you give $10,000? Or perhaps you feel the Lord prompting you to become one of 3 businesspeople who could give $5,000? Or one of 5 businesspeople who could contribute $2,500? If so, those donations would total $37,500. Then, we would need another 7 people to pledge $100/month for 12 months for a gift of $1,200. And another 14 people to pledge $50/month for 12 months for a gift of $600? Please, go to TheWorldview.com and click on Give on the top right. If you want to make it a monthly pledge, click on the recurring tab. What is the Lord asking you to do? Close And that's The Worldview on this Wednesday, June 25th, in the year of our Lord 2025. Follow us on X or subscribe for free by Spotify, Amazon Music, or by iTunes or email to our unique Christian newscast at www.TheWorldview.com.  Plus, you can get the Generations app through Google Play or The App Store. I'm Adam McManus (Adam@TheWorldview.com). Seize the day for Jesus Christ.

The WorldView in 5 Minutes
Trump warns Iranian civilians to evacuate Tehran; Supreme Court: Religious groups cannot be compelled to fund abortion; Alabama has most people with Biblical worldview, Rhode Island the least

The WorldView in 5 Minutes

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 18, 2025


It's Wednesday, June 18th, A.D. 2025. This is The Worldview in 5 Minutes heard on 140 radio stations and at www.TheWorldview.com.  I'm Adam McManus. (Adam@TheWorldview.com) By Jonathan Clark and Adam McManus Pakistani Muslims level false accusations against Christians Muslims in Pakistan are using the country's blasphemy laws to target religious minorities. Human Rights Watch released a report on the issue, entitled, “A Conspiracy to Grab the Land: Exploiting Pakistan's Blasphemy Laws for Blackmail and Profit.” For example, Christians experience false accusations of blasphemy against Islam. Locals then weaponize the accusations by inciting mob violence against Christians and seizing their property.  Sadly, the government does little to nothing about such attacks. Pakistan is ranked eighth on the Open Doors' World Watch List of the most difficult places to be a Christian.  Psalm 14:4 asks, “Have all the workers of iniquity no knowledge, who eat up My people as they eat bread, and do not call on the LORD?” Trump warns Iranian civilians to evacuate Tehran U.S. President Donald Trump called for Iranian civilians to evacuate their capital city of Tehran this week as fighting between Israel and Iran escalates.  And yesterday, he wrote on Truth Social, “We know exactly where the so-called ‘Supreme Leader' is hiding.  ... We are not going to take him out. ... at least not for now. But we don't want missiles shot at civilians, or American soldiers. Our patience is wearing thin.” A senior White House official told Fox News that U.S. strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities are on the table.  Supreme Court: Religious groups cannot be compelled to fund abortion On Monday, the U.S. Supreme Court reversed a lower court ruling that had previously forced religious groups to fund abortions. The state of New York required groups, including churches, to cover abortions in their health insurance plans for employees. Religious groups have been challenging the policy for years. Attorney Noel Francisco commented on the case. He said, “Religious groups in the Empire State should not be forced to provide insurance coverage that violates their deeply held religious beliefs. We are confident that New York will finally get the message and stop discriminating against religious objectors.” House voted to cut $9 billion in foreign aid and public broadcasting The U.S. House of representatives narrowly passed a measure to cut $9 billion in funding for foreign aid and public broadcasting.  The House approved the legislation by a vote of 214-212 last Thursday.  House Speaker Mike Johnson commented, “It is just one of the ways Republicans are codifying DOGE's findings and putting taxpayer dollars to better use.” The bill faces an uncertain future in the U.S. Senate. Children's Hospital in Los Angeles closes its transgender center The Children's Hospital in Los Angeles recently announced it will close its so-called “Center for Transyouth Health and Development” next month.  The center performed sex mutilating surgeries and offered puberty-blocking drugs to children.  The announcement follows an executive order from President Trump that bans federal funding for transgender operations for minors. Alabama has most people with Biblical worldview; Rhode Island the least Dr. George Barna released a new report on the worldview of Americans ranked by state. The report notes that only 4% of U.S. adults hold to a Biblical worldview. However, that number varies by state. The states with the highest proportion of adults with a Biblical worldview are Alabama at 12.6%, Mississippi at 12.5%, South Carolina at 9.8%, and Arkansas at 9%. States with the least proportion of adults with a Biblical worldview are Rhode Island at 0.25%, Maine at 1.1%, Nebraska at 1.5% and Massachusetts at 1.8%.  Even though states like Alabama and Mississippi have a higher incidence of adults with a Biblical worldview, Dr. Barna noted, “In absolute terms, every state in the union is failing miserably at developing the biblical worldview among its residents.” Isaiah 55:7 says, “Let the wicked forsake his way, and the unrighteous man his thoughts; let him return to the LORD, and He will have mercy on him; and to our God, for He will abundantly pardon.” Worldview listeners in Wisconsin, Oklahoma, and Kentucky share their hearts I invited Worldview listeners to share what they enjoy about the newscast in 2-6 sentences by email.  You can share your thoughts — along with your full name, city and state — and send it to adam@TheWorldview.com Barabara Resheske in Lake Nebagamon, Wisconsin wrote, “I read every word of The Worldview transcript because it confirms my belief that the world is in turmoil, but Christ is in control. I pray when you request prayers for the persecuted. I thank you for telling us what the mass media doesn't.  Indeed, I thank you for truth, honesty, and transparency.” Ruth Stapp in Edmond, Oklahoma wrote, “I love The Worldview and look forward to seeing it every day. Your information is exactly what I need. I do not enjoy watching the news on TV because of the bias and lies. Plus, your newscast gives me an opportunity to delve further into any of the stories that spark my interest through the links you provide.”  And Daniel Wojnicki in Louisville, Kentucky. wrote,  “I enjoy that The Worldview gives facts and news insights all in one short newscast. Because it's a Christian news source, there is no distortion of the truth.  Being informed about the truth is very rare these days, especially in an age ruled by corrupted news anchors.” 8 Worldview listeners gave $3,022 to fund our annual budget And finally, toward our $92,625 goal by this Friday, June 20th  to fund three-quarters of The Worldview newscast's annual budget for our 6-member team, 8  listeners stepped up to the plate as of 4:00pm Central yesterday afternoon. Our thanks to Margaret in Raleigh, North Carolina who gave $25 and Jessica in Delmar, Maryland who gave $50. We're grateful to God for Mandy in Walpole, New Hampshire and Max in Macon, Georgia – both of whom gave $200 as well as Rose in Everson, Washington who gave $247. And we were touched by the generosity of Carlee in Keswick Ridge, New Brunswick, Canada who pledged $25/month for 12 months for a gift of $300, Susan in San Antonio, Texas who gave $1,000, and Scooter in Naples, Florida who gave $1,000 to match Susan's gift. Those 8 Worldview listeners gave a total of $3,022. Ready for our new grand total? Drum roll please.  (Drum roll sound effect) $46,896.70 (People clapping and cheering sound effect)   Toward this Friday, June 20th's goal of $92,625, we need to raise $45,728.30. Remember, if you are one of the final 2 people who will give a one-time gift of $1,000, Scooter in Naples, Florida will match you with a corresponding $1,000 gift of his own.  I am wondering if there are two businesspeople in our listening audience  – two -- who would consider a generous $10,000 matching gift if 5 other listeners gave a one-time gift of $2,000. If you are one of those 2 businesspeople, please email me at adam@TheWorldview.com and include your phone number so we can chat. I need to find 20 Worldview listeners who will pledge $50/month for 12 months for a gift of $600. And another 40 listeners to pledge $25/month for 12 months for a gift of $300. Go to TheWorldview.com and click on Give on the top right. Your gift will help us fund the 6-member Worldview newscast team for another fiscal year. Close And that's The Worldview on this Wednesday, June 18th, in the year of our Lord 2025.  Follow us on X or subscribe for free by Spotify, Amazon Music, or by iTunes or email to our unique Christian newscast at www.TheWorldview.com.  Plus, you can get the Generations app through Google Play or The App Store. I'm Adam McManus (Adam@TheWorldview.com). Seize the day for Jesus Christ.

Open Doors Uutiset
Open Doors Maailmankatsaus: Syyria

Open Doors Uutiset

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 15, 2025 13:44


Tommi Hakkari ja Johanna Kultalahti keskustelevat kristittyjen tilanteesta Syyriassa, joka on vuoden 2025 World Watch List -vainoraportin sijalla 18.   https://opendoors.fi/maa/syyria/  

Open Doors Uutiset
Open Doors Maailmankatsaus: Irak

Open Doors Uutiset

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 8, 2025 13:50


Tommi Hakkari ja Johanna Kultalahti keskustelevat kristittyjen tilanteesta Irakissa, joka on vuoden 2025 World Watch List -vainoraportin sijalla 17.   https://opendoors.fi/maa/irak/    

The WorldView in 5 Minutes
The American Miracle movie shows God's intervention, Trump overturns pro-abortion Biden rule, U.K. Christian groups calling for prayer on June 11

The WorldView in 5 Minutes

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 5, 2025


It's Thursday, June 5th, A.D. 2025. This is The Worldview in 5 Minutes heard on 140 radio stations and at www.TheWorldview.com.  I'm Adam McManus. (Adam@TheWorldview.com) By Jonathan Clark and Adam McManus Christian groups in India to speak out against persecution June 9 Christian groups across India are organizing a protest against persecution of Christians on Monday, June 9. The National Christian Front noted, “Our Christian brothers and sisters are enduring brutal attacks and growing intolerance from anti-social elements. This is not merely a Christian issue — it is a grave concern for humanity, for peace, and for the values enshrined in our Constitution.” Christians suffered over 600 incidents of violence and discrimination in India last year. The country is ranked 11th on the Open Doors' World Watch List of most difficult places to be a Christian. U.K. Christian groups calling for prayer on June 11 In the United the Kingdom, Christian groups are calling for a day of prayer on Wednesday, June 11 for protecting human life. This comes as lawmakers are considering bills to legalize assisted suicide.  Listen to comments from Ciarán Kelly, director of The Christian Institute.  KELLY: “This is a crucial time for our country. So, it's vital that Christians are asking the God, Who made Heaven and Earth, that He would overrule in all these things, to protect vulnerable people from this careless and callous bill.” In 1 Timothy 1:1-2, the Apostle Paul wrote, “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.” Trump overturns pro-abortion Biden rule In the United States, the Trump administration rescinded a pro-abortion rule on Tuesday that came from the Biden administration.  The rule tried to force hospital emergency rooms to offer abortions even if the state restricted them.  Matt Bowman, Senior Counsel at Alliance Defending Freedom, said, “Doctors—especially in emergency rooms—are tasked with preserving life. The Trump administration has rolled back a harmful Biden-era mandate that compelled doctors to end unborn lives, in violation of their deeply held beliefs.” Trump raises tariffs on steel imports President Donald Trump signed an executive order on Tuesday to raise tariffs on steel imports. The order doubles tariffs on steel and aluminum coming into the country from 25% to 50%. The levy will affect steel exporters in Canada, Mexico, and many countries in Europe. However, the tariff on steel from the United Kingdom remains at 25% as the U.S. and U.K. work out a trade deal.  Dust from Africa's Saharan Desert hits America Over the weekend, a massive plume of dust made its way to Florida all the way from the Saharan Desert in Africa.  Such dust plumes are known as the Saharan Air Layer and typically cross the Atlantic each year. The current plume is the biggest one to reach the U.S. so far this season. It measures nearly 2,000 miles wide and 750 miles from north to south.  The dust can diminish air quality but also creates spectacular sunrises and sunsets.  Only 1 in 100 Evangelical pastors leave ministry annually A report from Lifeway Research found that only 1 out of 100 Evangelical pastors leave the ministry each year.  This low rate has remained steady for the last 10 years despite many pastors acknowledging their work is very demanding and even overwhelming.  Scott McConnell with Lifeway Research said, “The rate of pastors departing the pastorate is steady and quite low given the demands of the role. Many of those leaving the pastorate feel they are moving at God's direction to another role of ministry.” In 2 Timothy 4:2, the Apostle Paul wrote, “Preach the Word! Be ready in season and out of season. Convince, rebuke, exhort, with all longsuffering and teaching.” The American Miracle movie shows God's intervention in U.S. The Left insists that there's nothing special about America. But a new docudrama contends that God inspired its founding.  The American Miracle – Our Nation is No Accident hits the silver screen in 1,000 theaters nationwide for 3 days only -- Monday, June 9th through Wednesday, June 11th. Inspired by Michael Medved's bestseller, this exciting, entertaining, and edifying motion picture experience was created in anticipation of the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence.  ‘ Medved appeared on The 700 Club. MEDVED: “America is no accident. All of our most important leaders, from Washington to Lincoln to Woodrow Wilson and Franklin Roosevelt -- all of our leaders have understood that America has a divine purpose.” Consider God's protection of George Washington – the Father of our Country -- in a ferocious battle in 1755 during the French and Indian War. During the Battle of Monongahela, 69 of 70 officers were either killed or wounded. Washington was the only officer who was not shot off his horse.  In fact, two horses were shot from underneath him. Yet he lived. Even a Native American chief later said they couldn't touch Washington. Shockingly, after the battle, he found numerous bullet holes in his jacket and bullet fragments in his hair, but he was miraculously unscathed. No wonder they called him “Bulletproof.”  Visit the website https://americanmiraclemovie.com/, watch the trailer, click on Tickets, and type in your zipcode to get tickets for next week at a theater near you. Watch the trailer. Worldview listener in Florida speaks up On Wednesday, I was delighted to receive 23 emails at Adam@TheWorldview.com about what listeners enjoy about this newscast. Amy Cool from St. Cloud, Florida wrote, “I like that I can trust The Worldview newscast to report the truth from a Biblical perspective. I like the Scriptures referenced as they pertain to a particular story because it shows the relevance of the Bible to our life today. That's often hard for people to see when they haven't grown up in a home where the Bible was read or explained.” 14 Worldview listeners gave $1,420 to fund our $123,500 annual budget Toward this week's $30,875 goal to fund one-fourth of The Worldview newscast's annual budget by this Friday, June 6th, 14 listeners stepped up to the plate on Wednesday by 7:15pm Central last night.  Our thanks to Grace in Duncanville, Texas, Greg in Rochester, New Hampshire, Andy in Santa Barbara, California, and George in Carrollton, Missouri – each of whom gave $25. We also appreciate Jalynn in Sapulpa, Oklahoma, Jon in Granger, Indiana, and Steven in Jacksonville, Florida – each of whom gave $50. We're grateful to God for Nancy in Peabody, Massachusetts, Kevin in North Bend, Oregon, and Robert in Plano, Texas – each of whom gave $100. And we appreciate the generosity of Paula in Breaux Bridge, Louisiana who pledged $10/month for 12 months for a gift of $120, Dawn in Troy, Montana who gave $150, Amy in Seminole, Texas who gave $300, and Dawn in Smithville, Texas who pledged $25/month for 12 months for a gift of $300. Those 14 listeners gave a total of $1,420. Ready for our new grand total? Drum roll please.  (Drum roll sound effect) $6,352 (People clapping sound effect)  We missed our goal of 20 donors by just 6 donors. That means by this Friday, we still need to raise $24,523.    Whether it's Thanksgiving or Christmas, we churn out a weekday broadcast 52 weeks per year. It's a commitment we're glad to make, but we need help to cover the cost. Would you prayerfully consider investing $100 per month for 12 months into this ministry, helping to pay for the work of the six-member Worldview team?  If 20 of you made that pledge we would hit our Friday, June 6th goal one day early. Just go to TheWorldview.com and click on Give on the top right.   And click on the button that indicates a recurring donation if you want to give monthly. Thanks for investing your resources into this media ministry that champions the truth.  Our plumbline is Jesus Christ Himself. Close And that's The Worldview on this Thursday, June 5th, in the year of our Lord 2025. Subscribe for free by Spotify, Amazon Music or by iTunes or email to our unique Christian newscast at www.TheWorldview.com. Or get the Generations app through Google Play or The App Store. I'm Adam McManus (Adam@TheWorldview.com). Seize the day for Jesus Christ.

The WorldView in 5 Minutes
Ukrainian evangelist: Thousands coming to Christ; Oklahoma Governor: “Life begins at conception.”; Christians persecuted in Mali, Africa

The WorldView in 5 Minutes

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 4, 2025


It's Wednesday, June 4th, A.D. 2025. This is The Worldview in 5 Minutes heard on 140 radio stations and at www.TheWorldview.com.  I'm Adam McManus. (Adam@TheWorldview.com) By Jonathan Clark and Adam McManus Christians persecuted in Mali, Africa by military junta Christians are facing increased persecution in Mali after the military junta initiated a crackdown in May. The military of the West African nation dissolved all political parties in the crackdown. Jo Newhouse with Open Doors Sub-Saharan Africa said, “Christians in Mali have faced increasing persecution over the past few years. By closing the democratic space, and further encroaching on civil liberties, the junta is adding unwelcome pressure to an already volatile situation.” Please pray for the church in Mali, Africa. The country is ranked 14th on the Open Doors' World Watch List of the most difficult places to be a Christian.  Ukrainian evangelist: Thousands coming to Christ A Ukrainian evangelist addressed the European Congress on Evangelism in Berlin, Germany last Thursday. Evangelist David Karcha reported that Ukrainian Evangelicals have been ministering to their fellow countrymen since Russia invaded the country in 2022. Churches are seeing thousands of people come to Christ during the war. Karcha said, “In the world's eyes, Ukraine is a story of war. But in God's eyes, it is a story of revival, a story that reminds us all that the Gospel advances.” 2 Corinthians 10:4-5 says, “For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal but mighty in God for pulling down strongholds … and every high thing that exalts itself against the knowledge of God.” American economy predicted to grow by only 1.6% this year The Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development cut its economic growth outlook for the United States. The group forecasts the U.S. economy will expand by 1.6% this year, down from its previous forecast of 2.2%. Experts also expect global economic growth to slow this year in the wake of U.S President Donald Trump's tariff policies. They also noted, “trade uncertainty and economic policy uncertainty has reached unprecedented levels.” Dept of Ed. shuns homosexual pride month, celebrates Title IX month To its credit, the U.S. Department of Education is not celebrating homosexual pride month in the month of June. Instead, the Trump administration is recognizing June as “Title IX Month.” Title IX of the Education Amendments was signed into law by President Richard Nixon on June 23, 1972. It prohibits discrimination on the basis of sex in education programs. However, the Biden administration tried to inject transgender protections into the law. Under Trump's Education Department, the administration is promising to protect women's and girls' sports from such transgender activism.  Muslim immigrant used flamethrower on peaceful pro-Israel group in CO An immigrant, motivated by anti-Semitic beliefs, has been accused of brutally attacking a peaceful pro-Israel group advocating for Israeli hostages held captive by the Muslim terrorist group known as Hamas, reports The Blaze. Mohamed Sabry Soliman, a 45-year-old Egyptian national in the United States despite reportedly overstaying his visa, is suspected of attacking a group of individuals participating in a walk in Boulder, Colorado at 2:00pm on June 1st. According to CNN, he allegedly used a makeshift flamethrower and Molotov cocktails to set people on fire at an event in support of hostages in Gaza as he yelled “Free Palestine.” He injured at least 12 people. The victims ranged in age from 52 to 88 years old, including a Holocaust survivor. The U.S. Attorney General's office has charged Soliman with a hate crime. The attack targeted the “Run for Their Lives” group, a grassroots organization that gathered on Pearl Street on Sunday evening to support the release of the hostages captured by the terrorist group in October 2023. According to the FBI, the Jewish group chapter gathers weekly. Maya Bajayo is the organizer of the “Run for Their Lives” group. BAJAYO: “We're here only to raise awareness for the hostages. It makes it even more scary for us that it could have been us.” Amazingly, Bajayo, who has been leading the walk for 83 Sundays straight, refuses to stop walking despite the threat of violence. She explained why to Channel 9 News. BAJAYO: “To show people that we're still here, the problem hasn't been solved, and the hostages need to be released. We're just not going to give up on them.” Oklahoma Governor: "Life begins at conception.” During June, Oklahoma is celebrating  a “Month for Life.” Republican Governor Kevin Stitt signed the proclamation Monday. He wrote on X, “Life begins at conception. We're committed to supporting moms every step. And God has a plan for every life.” The proclamation encouraged citizens to join the Oklahoma March for Life on Saturday, June 7. 10th anniversary of Supreme Court's pro-homosexual marriage ruling The U.S. Supreme Court handed down its Obergefell v. Hodges decision 10 years ago on June 26, 2015. The infamous ruling requires states to recognize same-sex unions as marriages.  A new survey from Gallup found that 68% of U.S. adults support faux same-sex marriage, up from 60% in 2015. However, that support has plateaued over the last five years.  No one shared why they like The Worldview in 5 Minutes And finally, I would love to know why you enjoy listening to The Worldview in 5 Minutes.  Do you like the variety of stories, the reports on the persecuted church, the Christian worldview, the 2 Scriptures, the soundbites, the links to additional information in our transcript, or the occasional uplifting, positive story?  Email me 2-6 sentences and include your name, city, and state.  Surprisingly, I did not get a single email on Tuesday despite the fact that tens of thousands of people listen to the newscast or read the transcript.  Send your email to Adam@TheWorldview.com. 18 listeners gave $4,202 to fund The Worldview newscast Toward this week's $30,875 goal to fund one-fourth of The Worldview newscast budget by this Friday, June 6th, 18 listeners stepped up to the plate.  Our thanks to Joshua in Bolivar, Missouri who gave $30 as well as Rachelle in Longview, Washington, Margaret in White Salmon, Washington, Jeremy in Swansea, Wales in the United Kingdom, and Karena in Eugene, Oregon – each of whom gave $50. We appreciate Dick in Hoyt, Kansas, Hannah in San Jose, California, David in Plano, Texas, Adam in Gile, Wisconsin, and David in Crestview, Florida – each of whom gave $100. We're grateful to God for Hannah in Green Valley, Arizona who gave $132,Genevieve in Wheat Ridge, Colorado who pledged $20/month for 12 months for a gift of $240, Kristen in Columbia Falls, Montana who gave $250, and Luis and Patricia in Kyle, Texas who pledged $25/month for 12 months for a gift of $300. And we appreciate the generosity of Steven in Coatesville, Pennsylvania who gave $350, James in Cardiff, Wales in the United Kingdom who pledged $50/month for 12 months for a gift of $600, Patricia in  Winfield, Iowa who gave $700, and Larry and Sue in Crooked Creek , Alberta, Canada who pledged $75/month for 12 months for a gift of $900. Those 18 listeners gave a total of $4,202. Ready for our new grand total? Drum roll please.  (Drum toll sound effect) $4,932 (People clapping sound effect)  That means by this Friday, we still need to raise $26,873. We missed our goal of 20 donors on Tuesday by only 2 donors.  In order to hit our goal by this Friday, June 6th, we need to raise $8,957 on Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday.   Toward that end, I wonder if there might be 4 Worldview listeners who could give $1,000.  Another 8 who would pledge $50/month. And 12 more who would pledge $25/month.  That would enable us to raise $11,800 on Wednesday. Maybe we can hit 20 donors today. Go to TheWorldview.com and click on Give on the top right.    Click on the button that indicates a recurring donation if you want to give monthly. Where else can you find a succinct and timely newscast with a Biblical perspective? Close And that's The Worldview on this Wednesday, June 4th, in the year of our Lord 2025. Subscribe for free by Spotify, Amazon Music or by iTunes or email to our unique Christian newscast at www.TheWorldview.com. Or get the Generations app through Google Play or The App Store. I'm Adam McManus (Adam@TheWorldview.com). Seize the day for Jesus Christ.

Open Doors Uutiset
Open Doors Maailmankatsaus: Malediivit

Open Doors Uutiset

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 1, 2025 13:27


Tommi Hakkari ja Johanna Kultalahti keskustelevat kristittyjen tilanteesta Malediiveilla, joka on vuoden 2025 World Watch List -vainoraportin sijalla 16.   https://opendoors.fi/maa/malediivit/  

Open Doors Uutiset
Open Doors Maailmankatsaus: Kiina

Open Doors Uutiset

Play Episode Listen Later May 25, 2025 13:17


Tommi Hakkari ja Johanna Kultalahti keskustelevat kristittyjen tilanteesta Kiinassa, joka on vuoden 2025 World Watch List -vainoraportin sijalla 15.   https://opendoors.fi/maa/kiina/  

Open Doors Uutiset
Mitä kuuluu Brunein kristityille?

Open Doors Uutiset

Play Episode Listen Later May 22, 2025 13:21


Kun Sheila* kuuli jonkun kutsuvan häntä unessa lapsekseen, hän tiesi, että kyseessä voi olla vain yksi Persoona.   Sheila* on ulkomailla syntynyt, Bruneissa asuva kristitty. Brunei, Kaakkois-Aasiassa sijaitseva pieni islamilainen monarkia,  joka on vuoden 2025 World Watch List -vainoraportin sijalla 48. https://opendoors.fi/maa/brunei/  

The WorldView in 5 Minutes
Urge 19 GOP Reps. to DEFUND Planned Parenthood; Trump to Putin: “When are we going to end this bloodbath?”; Kay Arthur, who showed how to study the Bible, died at 91

The WorldView in 5 Minutes

Play Episode Listen Later May 21, 2025


It's Wednesday, May 21st, A.D. 2025. This is The Worldview in 5 Minutes heard on 125 radio stations and at www.TheWorldview.com.  I'm Adam McManus. (Adam@TheWorldview.com) By Jonathan Clark and Adam McManus British national Muslim fighters committed war crimes A recent report from the U.K. parliament found that hundreds of Islamic fighters have returned to England without facing prosecution. British nationals joined the Islamic State in Iraq and Syria between 2014 and 2019. The group targeted religious minorities and committed many war crimes. Since then, over 400 Islamic State fighters have returned to the U.K. However, the country's government has not prosecuted any of them for international crimes. Christians have faced high levels of persecution from Islamic fighters in Iraq and Syria. Both countries are ranked on the Open Doors' World Watch List of nations where it is most dangerous to be a Christian.  Ecclesiastes 8:11-12 says, “Because the sentence against an evil work is not executed speedily, therefore the heart of the sons of men is fully set in them to do evil. Though a sinner does evil a hundred times, and his days are prolonged, yet I surely know that it will be well with those who fear God, who fear before Him.” Trump to Putin: “When are we going to end this bloodbath?” U.S. President Donald Trump spoke with Russian President Vladimir Putin about the war in Ukraine on Monday. Trump said Russia and Ukraine would immediately start negotiations toward a ceasefire. He noted that the new Roman Catholic pope, Leo XIV, has offered to host the talks at the Vatican. President Trump warned that the United States would back out of the situation if both sides can't reach an agreement. Listen. TRUMP: “I said, ‘When are we going to end this Vladimir?' I've known him for a long time now. I said, ‘When are we going to end this blood bath?' It's a blood bath. I think it'd be great to have it at the Vatican. There's tremendous bitterness, anger, and I think maybe that could help some of that anger.” Trump dropped $37 million fine against Christian University The Trump administration dropped a $37 million fine against the largest Christian university in America Initially, Biden's Department of Education leveled the fine against Grand Canyon University. Brian Mueller, the president of the university, said, “The facts clearly support our contention that we were wrongly accused of misleading our Doctoral students and we appreciate the recognition that those accusations were without merit.” Ellen Keast, an Education Department spokeswoman, noted, “Unlike the previous administration, we will not persecute and prosecute colleges and universities based on their religious affiliation.” FDA discouraging young, healthy Americans from getting COVID shot On Tuesday, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration announced new rules for its approval of COVID-19 shots. The FDA said it will require more research before approving yearly COVID-19 boosters for young, healthy Americans.  The shots will still be approved for adults over 65 and for people with health problems that put them at higher risk. FDA officials noted, “The FDA will approve vaccines for high-risk persons and, at the same time, demand robust, gold-standard data on persons at low risk.” Man kills self, injured 4 outside in vitro clinic On Saturday, a car bomb was detonated outside an in vitro fertilization clinic called the American Reproductive Center in Los Angeles.  The blast killed 25-year-old suspect Guy Edward Bartkus and injured four other people. The in vitro fertilization facility was damaged, but the embryos stored inside were saved. Bartkus reportedly left behind a manifesto on a website. In it, he said he wanted to start “a war against pro-lifers” and “begin the process of sterilizing this planet of the disease of life.” Urge 19 Republican Congressmen to DEFUND Planned Parenthood Today, the House Rules Committee will have a hearing and vote on President Trump's “big, beautiful bill” to determine what budget items go to the House floor. If even a single amendment is added, the momentum we've built to stop funding Planned Parenthood and Big Abortion could vanish, reports Liberty Counsel Action. This is the last vote before the bill is placed on the House floor. Two conservative Republicans who voted “present” on Sunday night are also on the Rules Committee. The full House could vote on this bill as early as later today. Remember, there are 220 Republicans and 213 Democrats. Because the GOP majority is so slim, we need every one of them. Three moderate House Republicans are carrying the water for Planned Parenthood and pushing House leaders to continue funding the Murder Giant. Those three pro-abortion Republican Representatives include Mike Lawler (R-NY), Jen Kiggans (R-VA), and Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA). These members are exerting significant pressure on House leadership to give up defunding Planned Parenthood and Big Abortion. We are on the cusp of victory, and we cannot allow this effort to fail. There are 19 key Republicans in leadership who need to hear from us. I've listed them in our transcript today along with a 3-sentence message you could read when you call today at www.TheWorldview.com.  Do not hesitate to leave a voicemail. Call as many of them as you can as early as you can! Email me at Adam@TheWorldview.com to let me know how many Congressmen you and your family members called. SAMPLE CALL: “I am calling to urge Representative _______ to defund Planned Parenthood. Nearly 60 percent of Americans oppose tax-funded abortion.  If a majority oppose it, then Congress should not fund it. Thank you!”    Rep. David Schweikert (R-AZ) – (202) 225-2190    Rep. Kevin Kiley (R-CA) – (202) 225-2523    Rep. Vince Fong (R-CA) – (202) 225-2915    Rep. Young Kim (R-CA) – (202) 225-4111    Rep. Zach Nunn (R-IA) – (202) 225-5476    Rep. Hal Rogers (R-KY) – (202) 225-4601    Rep. John James (R-MI) – (202) 225-4961    Rep. Don Bacon (R-NE) – (202) 225-4155    Rep. Tom Kean Jr. (R-NJ) – (202) 225-5361    Rep. Andrew Garbarino (R-NY) – (202) 225-7896    Rep. Nicole Malliotakis (R-NY) – (202) 225-3371    Rep. Mike Lawler (R-NY) – (202) 225-6506    Rep. Nick LaLota (R-NY) – (202) 225-3826    Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA) – (202) 225-4276    Rep. Nancy Mace (R-SC) – (202) 225-3176    Rep. Scott DesJarlais (R-TN) – (202) 225-6831    Rep. Jen Kiggans (R-VA) – (202) 225-4215    Rep. Juan Ciscomani (R-AZ) – (202) 225-2542    Rep. Monica De La Cruz (R-TX) – (202) 225-2531 Kay Arthur, who showed how to study the Bible, died at 91 And finally, Kay Arthur, the beloved co-founder of Precept Ministries International and a pioneering advocate for inductive Bible study, died yesterday in Chattanooga, Tennessee, according to the Roys Report. She was 91. In an announcement on the Precept website, her ministry said,  Kay “will be remembered for her love for the Lord, His Word, and His people.” A prolific author, Arthur wrote more than 100 books and Bible studies over her lifetime including her bestseller, Lord, Teach Me to Study the Bible in 28 Days.  ARTHUR: “People need to discover truth for themselves because God promises in His word that He has given us everything that pertains, not only to life, but also to godliness, so that we might be fitted for every good work, so that nothing can come our way and throw us. “God is doing a work in their lives because the only text that they are looking at is the Bible, which is alive and powerful and sharper than any two-edged sword. It's a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart. It is a light unto our path. It's the very Word by which we live. It's the Sword by which we stand against the enemy." She often said, “When you know what God says, what He means, and how to put His truths into practice, you will be equipped for every circumstance of life.” Through Precept's inductive Bible study method—teaching believers to observe, interpret, and apply Scripture—Arthur equipped millions around the world to study the Bible for themselves.  Indeed, the ministry was heard in 150 countries in 70 different languages. Close And that's The Worldview on this Wednesday, May 21st, in the year of our Lord 2025. Subscribe for free by Spotify, Amazon Music or by iTunes or email to our unique Christian newscast at www.TheWorldview.com. Or get the Generations app through Google Play or The App Store. I'm Adam McManus (Adam@TheWorldview.com). Seize the day for Jesus Christ.

Open Doors Uutiset
Open Doors Maailmankatsaus: Mali

Open Doors Uutiset

Play Episode Listen Later May 18, 2025 14:52


Miika Auvinen ja Tommi Hakkari keskustelevat kristittyjen tilanteesta Malissa, joka on vuoden 2025 World Watch List -vainoraportin sijalla 14.   https://opendoors.fi/maa/mali/  

The WorldView in 5 Minutes
Inflation down and egg prices down; 1,518 executions worldwide in 2024; British city council no longer bans street preachers

The WorldView in 5 Minutes

Play Episode Listen Later May 15, 2025 6:05


It's Thursday, May 15th, A.D. 2025. This is The Worldview in 5 Minutes heard on 125 radio stations and at www.TheWorldview.com. I'm Adam McManus. (Adam@TheWorldview.com) By Jonathan Clark 1,518 executions worldwide in 2024 A report from Amnesty International found there were 1,518 executions around the world last year. That's up 32 percent from 2023. Nations with the most documented executions include Iran, Saudi Arabia, and Iraq.  These numbers do not include executions in China, North Korea, and Vietnam. China is considered to be the world's leading executioner, with potentially thousands of executions last year. All of these countries are ranked on the Open Doors' World Watch List of nations where it is most difficult to be a Christian.  British city council no longer bans street preachers A local government district in England has backed down from banning street preachers. Back in March, Rushmoor Borough Council sought to criminalize street preaching, praying for people, singing, or handing out Bibles. Local churches, supported by the Christian Legal Centre, opposed the plan. Thankfully, the council backed down.  Jamie Broadey, a local evangelist, said, “Since we found out about the injunction and asked for prayer, we have been contacted by Christians from across the UK. The issue is uniting preachers and Christians and we are prepared to challenge this as far as need be to prevent the Gospel being criminalized.” Acts 5:29 says, “But Peter and the other apostles answered and said: ‘We ought to obey God rather than men.'” $1.2 trillion economic package with Qatar United States President Donald Trump is visiting countries in the Middle East this week. Yesterday, he signed an agreement with Qatar that would generate an economic exchange worth at least $1.2 trillion. This includes an historic sale of Boeing aircraft and GE Aerospace engines to Qatar Airways worth $96 billion.  Trump budget insists on work requirements for Medicaid This week, Republicans in the U.S. House of Representatives unveiled the “big, beautiful bill,” as the president calls it, to advance Trump's agenda.  The bill includes tax breaks, spending cuts, and border security.  Notably, the measure would cut $900 billion from Medicaid spending. It would also require many people to prove they are working, volunteering, or pursuing education to be eligible for Medicaid. Listen to comments by House Speaker Mike Johnson. JOHNSON: “We are protecting Medicaid for the people who need and deserve it. This program is an essential lifeline for our most vulnerable Americans: pregnant women, single mothers, low income seniors, the disabled. That's who Medicaid is intended to be for, and that's who we're protecting while we're eliminating fraud, waste and abuse to improve Medicaid. “These are reforms to restore and preserve the system so that it doesn't collapse on itself. That means ensuring illegal aliens don't get coverage meant for Americans in need. It means implementing work requirements to ensure that adults who can work, but refuse to, cannot keep cheating the system. We're going to continue to call this out.” Trump's bill defunds Planned Parenthood The “big, beautiful bill” from Republicans also paves the way for defunding Planned Parenthood. The legislation would bar federal funds from going to prohibited entities that perform abortions in many cases. The measure would also cut taxpayer funding for transgender surgeries for minors.  U.S. drug overdose deaths down Drug overdose deaths in the United States declined last year. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports 80,000 people died from overdoses in 2024. That's down 27 percent from 2023. It's the largest drop in overdose deaths on record. However, overdose deaths are still higher now than they were before the COVID-19 pandemic.  Inflation down and egg prices down Annual inflation was lower than expected last month. The consumer price index rose 0.2 percent in April. That put the 12-month inflation rate at 2.3 percent. Inflation is now the lowest it's been since 2021. Notably, egg prices fell by over 12 percent. However, they're still up about 50 percent compared to a year ago. Worldwide Bible engagement update And finally, the American Bible Society released the second chapter of its State of the Bible USA 2025 report.  The chapter looks at Bible engagement around the world.  People are most actively engaged and committed to the Bible in areas that are majority Christian like Latin America and Sub-Saharan Africa.  Interestingly, people are the most receptive to new ideas and other religions in Muslim-majority areas like North Africa, the Middle East, and Central Asia.  The greatest indifference to the Bible is found in the secular west and certain majority-Christian areas like the U.S., Western Europe, Russia, and Eastern Europe.  Of countries in the secular West, the U.S. had the highest rates of Bible usage and church attendance.  Isaiah 45:22 says, “Look to Me, and be saved, all you ends of the Earth! For I am God, and there is no other.” Close And that's The Worldview on this Thursday, May 15th, in the year of our Lord 2025. Subscribe for free by Spotify, Amazon Music or by iTunes or email to our unique Christian newscast at www.TheWorldview.com. Or get the Generations app through Google Play or The App Store. I'm Adam McManus (Adam@TheWorldview.com). Seize the day for Jesus Christ.

The WorldView in 5 Minutes
Saudi Arabia invests $600 billion in America, 80% of Cuban churches are not legal, 115-year-old woman is oldest person alive

The WorldView in 5 Minutes

Play Episode Listen Later May 14, 2025


It's Wednesday, May 14th, A.D. 2025. This is The Worldview in 5 Minutes heard on 125 radio stations and at www.TheWorldview.com.  I'm Adam McManus. (Adam@TheWorldview.com) By Jonathan Clark 80% of Cuban churches are not legal Evangelical Focus reports the Alliance of Christians in Cuba met recently to highlight religious freedom violations in the country.  The alliance noted that over 80% of churches in Cuba are unable to have legal status. Churches face confiscation of property and pastors face obstacles just to visit people in hospitals or nursing homes. Religious leaders in the country suffered nearly 1,000 repressive acts last year.  Cuba is ranked 26th on the Open Doors' World Watch List of nations where it is most difficult to be a Christian.  British Evangelical church attendance up The United Kingdom Evangelical Alliance released its Changing Church 2025 survey. The study found Evangelical churches experienced an average of 13% increase in attendance between 2020 and 2025. Also, churches have documented twice as many people expressing interest in the Christian faith as well as making first time commitments to Jesus compared to 2021. In Matthew 11:28, Jesus said, “Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.” United Kingdom closes its borders Speaking of the United Kingdom, the nation's prime minister, Keir Starmer, announced Monday that Britain would be ending its open borders experiment. Listen to comments he made at a press conference. STARMER: “Nations depend on rules. … Now in a diverse nation like ours, and I celebrate that, these rules become even more important. Without them, we risk becoming an island of strangers, not a nation that walks forward together. … So yes, I believe in this. I believe we need to reduce immigration significantly.” Starmer said he would raise English language requirements and the skills threshold for people entering the U.K. Saudi Arabia invests $600 billion in America President Donald Trump, who visited Saudi Arabia in person yesterday, announced that our ally will be investing $600 billion in the United States. This includes a $142 billion deal for the U.S. to sell weapons to Saudi Arabia. Trump made the announcement during a visit to the Middle East. TRUMP: “We've seen wealth that just poured and is pouring back into America. Apple is investing $500 billion, Nvidia is investing $500 billion, [Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company] is investing $200 billion and, with this trip, we're adding over $1 trillion more, in terms of investment into our country, and buying our products.” During his trip, Trump also announced he would be lifting sanctions on Syria to “give them a chance at greatness.”  Planned Parenthood gives transgender drugs available to minors Live Action released an undercover investigation recently, showing how easy it is for minors to get transgender drugs through Planned Parenthood. An undercover operative, posing as a 16-year-old, was offered such drugs by 30 facilities. Lila Rose, the founder and president of Live Action, wrote on X, “Planned Parenthood is prescribing cross sex hormones for minors — same-day prescriptions via virtual appointments. … Defund Planned Parenthood now!” Proverbs 12:10 says, “The tender mercies of the wicked are cruel.” Tennessee ensures teachers & students can use accurate pronouns Tennessee Republican Governor Bill Lee  signed House Bill 1270 into law last Friday. The measure takes on gender ideology in public schools.  Teachers and students cannot be forced to use biologically inaccurate pronouns that violate their beliefs. Matt Sharp, Senior Counsel at Alliance Defending Freedom, said, “In no world is it acceptable for the government to discipline students or force good educators or other public servants out of a job all for the sake of promoting gender ideology. With this legislation, Tennessee is rightfully stepping into the gap to protect freedom of speech and conscience.” Tariffs brought in $16 billion to U.S. Treasury U.S. tariff revenues reached all-time highs last month. Customs duties brought in $16.3 billion in April, up from $8.75 billion in March. Overall, tariff receipts are up 18% this year compared to last year. This comes after Trump instituted a 10% tariff on all U.S. imports last month. 115-year-old woman is oldest person alive And finally, Guinness World Records reports a woman from the U.K. is now the oldest woman alive as well as the oldest person alive. Ethel Caterham lives in Surrey, England. She is 115 years old. She became the world's oldest living person after Inah Canabarro Lucas from Brazil died at the age of 116 last month.  Ethel lived an adventurous life while looking out for others, especially children. She outlived her husband and two daughters. She now has three granddaughters and five great-grandchildren. Commenting on her longevity, she once told the Salisbury Journal, “Say yes to every opportunity because you never know what it will lead to. Have a positive mental attitude and have everything in moderation.” Close And that's The Worldview on this Wednesday, May 14th, in the year of our Lord 2025. Subscribe for free by Spotify, Amazon Music or by iTunes or email to our unique Christian newscast at www.TheWorldview.com. Or get the Generations app through Google Play or The App Store. I'm Adam McManus (Adam@TheWorldview.com). Seize the day for Jesus Christ.

Open Doors Uutiset
Open Doors Maailmankatsaus: Myanmar

Open Doors Uutiset

Play Episode Listen Later May 11, 2025 13:51


Tommi Hakkari ja Johanna Kultalahti keskustelevat kristittyjen tilanteesta Myanmarissa, joka on vuoden 2025 World Watch List -vainoraportin sijalla 13.   https://opendoors.fi/maa/myanmar/  

Closer to the Fire with Greg Musselman
Season 5: Episode 16 Somalia: Enduring Faith in a Hostile Land

Closer to the Fire with Greg Musselman

Play Episode Listen Later May 9, 2025 43:04


Christians in Somalia encounter life-threatening persecution not only from the militant Islamic group al-Shabab, but also from hostile members of their families and local communities. In particular, those who have left Islam to follow Jesus risk harassment, intimidation and even the threat of death. According to the World Watch List from Open Doors (an annual ranking of the top 50 countries where Christians encounter the most extreme persecution), Somalia remains the second most dangerous region in the world for followers of Jesus. Despite the intense opposition, this East African nation is home to one of the fastest growing church movements in the world. VOMC's Closer to the Fire host, Greg Musselman, is joined by Dr. Aweis Ali from the Somali Bible Society to discuss the many dangers facing the country's Christians, why the church is experiencing remarkable growth, and the exciting efforts of ministry workers who are reaching out to Somalis with the Gospel message. During his conversation with Greg, Dr. Aweis also shares the story of how he personally came to faith in Jesus – and the price he and other Muslim-background believers have paid for choosing to follow Christ in this restricted nation. Length: 43 minutes To watch the interview with Dr. Aweis https://vomcanada.com/cttf-videos/video/cttf-so-2025-05-06.htm Episode Notes Somali Bible Society: www.somalibiblesociety.org The Voice of the Martyrs Canada: www.vomcanada.com

Open Doors Uutiset
Open Doors Maailmankatsaus: Saudi-Arabia

Open Doors Uutiset

Play Episode Listen Later May 4, 2025 14:59


Miika Auvinen ja Tommi Hakkari keskustelevat kristittyjen tilanteesta Saudi-Arabiassa, joka on vuoden 2025 World Watch List -vainoraportin sijalla 12.   https://opendoors.fi/maa/saudi-arabia/  

The WorldView in 5 Minutes
Religiously unaffiliated in U.S. at 22% now, Nigerian Muslims killed 7 Christians, Tennessee doctors and nurses not forced to do abortions

The WorldView in 5 Minutes

Play Episode Listen Later Apr 30, 2025


It's Wednesday, April 30th, A.D. 2025. This is The Worldview in 5 Minutes heard on 125 radio stations and at www.TheWorldview.com.  I'm Adam McManus. (Adam@TheWorldview.com) By Jonathan Clark Nigerian Muslims killed 7 Christians Boko Haram terrorists attacked a Christian community in northeast Nigeria on Monday. The Muslim militants killed seven Christians, injured many more, and destroyed homes and church buildings.  One local believer told Morning Star News, “Kwaple village in Chibok Local Government Area is under attack from Boko Haram terrorists. Please pray for God's intervention.” Indeed, pray for our brothers and sisters in Christ in Nigeria. The African country is ranked seventh on the Open Doors' World Watch List of nations where it is most dangerous to be a Christian.  In John 15:20, Jesus said, “Remember the word that I said to you, ‘A servant is not greater than his master.' If they persecuted Me, they will also persecute you. If they kept My word, they will keep yours also.” Only 62% of Americans support free speech Pew Research released a new survey on free expression around the world. Across 35 countries, a majority of adults in most of those countries believe that freedom of the press, freedom of speech, and freedom on the internet are very important.  However, adults are much less likely to say they actually observe complete freedom of expression in their country.  Sadly, in the United States, support for free speech has declined from 71% in 2019 to 62% today.  European power outage crippled Spain, Portugal, and France A massive power outage hit Europe on Monday, affecting Spain, Portugal, and parts of France. The unprecedented failure grounded flights, froze trains, and disrupted cell service. Thankfully, much of the grid was restored yesterday. Experts ruled out sabotage and cyberattacks as the cause. However, Spain's electric operator Red Eléctrica  did identify two incidents of power generation loss that were likely from solar power plants, reports Reuters.  California's economy grew by 6% California's gross domestic product reached $4.1 trillion last year. That put the Golden State ahead of Japan, making it the world's fourth-largest economy behind Germany, China, and the U.S. as a whole. In addition, California's economy grew by 6% last year, faster than the other top four economies. Tennessee doctors and nurses not forced to do abortions Last Thursday, Tennessee Republican Governor Bill Lee signed the Medical Ethics Defense Act into law. The law protects medical professionals from participating in practices that violate their conscience like abortion. Erica Perdomo, an attorney with Alliance Defending Freedom, testified before the Tennessee legislature. PERDOMO: “There are doctors who practice medicine, consistent with a pro-life worldview, in which an abortion is never medically necessary.” Her colleague, Greg Chafuen, praised the legislation. He said, “Patients are best served by health care professionals who are free to act consistent with their oath to ‘do no harm.' … Tennessee's Medical Ethics Defense Act ensures that health care professionals are not forced to participate in procedures that violate their ethical, moral, or religious beliefs.” IBM defends free speech IBM recently changed its advertising policies to back down from censorship in favor of free speech.  Alliance Defending Freedom is leading a coalition that brought about the changes at IBM and other major companies like PepsiCo, Mastercard, and Johnson & Johnson.  Jeremy Tedesco with Alliance Defending Freedom said, “We hope every company follows IBM's example and recommits to doing its part to protect freedom of speech and thought in our nation and throughout the world.” IBM investing $150 billion in America Speaking of IBM, the tech company announced Monday that it plans to invest $150 billion in the U.S. over the next five years. This includes $30 billion for research and development of mainframe quantum computers.  IBM's CEO Arvind Krishna spoke to Fox Business about the investment.  KRISHNA: “We are extremely focused on leveraging American ingenuity and American innovation. “When I think about artificial intelligence, quantum computing, mainframe computers, this Research and Development investment, coupled with all of the associated manufacturing, is going to allow the United States to be at the front of all those three technologies.” Religiously unaffiliated in U.S. at 22% now And finally, Gallup released a new survey on religious preferences in the United States. Protestant identification was 45% last year, down from 57% in 2000. Catholic identification is 21%, down from 25%. And identification with no religion at all is 22%, up from 8% over the same time period.  Although the number of religiously unaffiliated Americans surged from 2000 to 2017, their growth has plateaued in recent years. Hebrews 10:23-24 says, “Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for He who promised is faithful. And let us consider one another in order to stir up love and good works.” Close And that's The Worldview on this Wednesday, April 30th, in the year of our Lord 2025. Subscribe for free by Amazon Music or by iTunes or email to our unique Christian newscast at www.TheWorldview.com. Or get the Generations app through Google Play or The App Store. I'm Adam McManus (Adam@TheWorldview.com). Seize the day for Jesus Christ.

The WorldView in 5 Minutes
Nigerian Muslims have killed 20,000 Christians since 2015, Supreme Court likely to support parental opt-out right, Secretary of State Rubio cuts staff by 15%

The WorldView in 5 Minutes

Play Episode Listen Later Apr 23, 2025


It's Wednesday, April 23rd, A.D. 2025. This is The Worldview in 5 Minutes heard on 125 radio stations and at www.TheWorldview.com.  I'm Adam McManus. (Adam@TheWorldview.com) By Jonathan Clark Nigerian Muslims have killed 20,000 Christians since 2015 Nigerian Muslims have killed over 20,000 Christians since 2015, according to a report by the International Society for Civil Liberties and Rule of Law. The report accuses various jihadist groups of targeting Christian communities in the southeast part of the African nation. The group also blames local government leaders for doing nothing about the violence. The report called on the United States to reinstate Nigeria on its list of Countries of Particular Concern and to classify Fulani Muslim jihadist herdsmen as an Entity of Particular Concern.  Nigeria is ranked seventh on the Open Doors' World Watch List of nations where it is most difficult to be a Christian.     Psalm 144:4-5 asks, “Have all the workers of iniquity no knowledge, who eat up My people as they eat bread, and do not call on the LORD? They are in great fear, for God is with the generation of the righteous.” Worldwide economic outlook looks more dim The International Monetary Fund released its latest World Economic Outlook yesterday. The report projects the world economy will grow 2.8% this year, down from a previous forecast of 3.3%.  Large economies like the U.S. and China are expected to weaken. U.S. economic growth is forecast to be 1.8% this year, down from a previous expectation of 2.7%.  The declining economic outlook comes during the uncertainty of what U.S. tariffs will look like.  Supreme Court likely to support parental opt-out right The U.S. Supreme Court heard arguments in a religious freedom case yesterday. Public schools in Montgomery County, Maryland don't let children opt out of classes that include sexually perverted lifestyles in storybooks. Parents are challenging this. They come from various backgrounds including Muslim, Christian, Roman Catholic, and Ukrainian Orthodox.  The conservative majority on the Supreme Court appeared likely to support parents in the case during the hearings yesterday.  Eric Baxtor, Senior Counsel at the Becket Fund for Religious Liberty, commented on the case, reports The Hill. BAXTOR: “Around 300 parents in Montgomery County, [Maryland] are just looking for the right to opt their children out of instruction that is highly controversial, tells kids that doctors guessed at their sex when they were born, and that they can choose for themselves who they are. “The board allowed opt-outs for an entire year and then overnight kind of withdrew them with no explanation. We're simply asking for that opt-out right to be returned.” Ephesians 6:4 says, “And you, fathers, do not provoke your children to wrath, but bring them up in the training and admonition of the Lord.” Maryland's physician-assisted suicide bills killed Speaking of Maryland, the state did not enact physician-assisted suicide bills during its most recent legislative session. This is the eighth time such deadly legislation has been introduced and the eighth time it has failed. Americans United for Life celebrated the defeat of the bills, crediting “numerous grassroots testimonies and thousands of letters speaking out.” Sadly, physician-assisted suicide is legal in 10 states and the District of Columbia. Secretary of State Rubio cuts staff by 15% U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced plans to overhaul the State Department yesterday. The changes will cut staff in the U.S. by 15% and close or consolidate over 100 bureaus around the world. It's part of President Donald Trump's “America First” foreign policy. In a press statement, Rubio said, “The sprawling bureaucracy created a system more beholden to radical political ideology than advancing America's core national interests. That is why today I am announcing a comprehensive reorganization plan that will bring the Department into the 21st Century.” Tammy Bruce, a State Department spokeswoman, added this in a press conference yesterday. BRUCE: “This is a whole of government, every department looking at how they can make their department more efficient, less burdensome, less bureaucratic. This is the State Department's version of that.” Alabama schools to display Ten Commandments, ban drag shows Lawmakers in Alabama passed several conservative bills last Thursday. One bill would require public schools to display the Ten Commandments. Republican State Rep. Phillip Rigsby, the sponsor of the bill, shared his mindset. RIGSBY: “In no way is this establishing a religion in the schools.  I think it gives us a good, at a minimum, moral compass.” Another bill would ban schools from promoting sexually perverted lifestyles through instruction or homosexual pride flags. And a third bill would prohibit schools and libraries from hosting drag performances.  Appearing on WDHN, Republican State Rep. Mack Butler explained why he believes children should be protected from drag shows in schools and libraries. BUTLER: “I'm a dad, you know, and if you look at all these sponsors of the bill, same thing: just dads trying to protect children. I'm just trying to take a stand for our children. Let them have their innocence. Just protect them.” The measures have passed in the state's House of Representatives and are awaiting approval by the Alabama State Senate.  Louisville Univ. pays $1.6 million to fired Christian psychiatrist And finally, University of Louisville officials agreed to a nearly $1.6 million settlement in a free speech case recently. Dr. Allan Josephson worked for the university's Division of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Psychology. The Christian psychiatrist spoke out against transgender drugs and surgeries. In response, the university demoted him, harassed him, and fired him. Travis Barham with Alliance Defending Freedom commented on the recent court victory for Josephson. He said, “After several years, free speech and common sense have scored a major victory on college campuses.” Close And that's The Worldview on this Wednesday, April 23rd, in the year of our Lord 2025. Subscribe for free by Amazon Music or by iTunes or email to our unique Christian newscast at www.TheWorldview.com. Or get the Generations app through Google Play or The App Store. I'm Adam McManus (Adam@TheWorldview.com). Seize the day for Jesus Christ.

Open Doors Uutiset
Open Doors Maailmankatsaus: Intia

Open Doors Uutiset

Play Episode Listen Later Apr 20, 2025 15:05


Miika Auvinen ja Tommi Hakkari keskustelevat kristittyjen tilanteesta Intiassa, joka on vuoden 2025 World Watch List -vainoraportin sijalla 11.   https://opendoors.fi/maa/intia/  

The WorldView in 5 Minutes
Archeologists unearthed first Christian hymn captured in new film, Trump freezes $2.2 billion from Harvard over antisemitism, Hungary bans events that celebrate sexual perversion

The WorldView in 5 Minutes

Play Episode Listen Later Apr 16, 2025


It's Wednesday, April 16th, A.D. 2025. This is The Worldview in 5 Minutes heard on 125 radio stations and at www.TheWorldview.com.  I'm Adam McManus. (Adam@TheWorldview.com) By Jonathan Clark Christian lawyer highlights persecution of Christians in Egypt A lawyer with Alliance Defending Freedom International visited Egypt recently to highlight the persecution of Christians there. The country is about 10% Christian. That's the largest Christian minority in the Middle East and North Africa. However, believers often face persecution from the Muslim majority. Christians suffer employment discrimination, false accusations of blasphemy against Muhammad, sexual violence, and even bombing campaigns.  Elizabeth Brink with Alliance Defending Freedom noted, “Yet, in the face of such hardship, the courage and resilience of Egypt's Christian community are a powerful testament to the enduring hope of the Gospel.” Egypt is ranked 40th on the Open Doors' World Watch List of nations where it is most difficult to be a Christian.  Hungary bans events that celebrate sexual perversion On Monday, lawmakers in Hungary passed a constitutional amendment to ban events that celebrate sexually perverted lifestyles.  The amendment also recognizes only two sexes: male and female.  Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán supported the legislation, saying, “We won't let woke ideology endanger our kids. … We're protecting children's development, affirming that a person is born either male or female.”  Genesis 1:27 says, “So God created man in His own image; in the image of God He created him; male and female He created them.” Trump freezes $2.2 billion from Harvard over antisemitism In the United States, the Trump administration is taking on Harvard University.  The U.S. Department of Education announced Monday that it is freezing $2.2 billion in multi-year grants and $60 million in multi-year contract value to Harvard. This came after Harvard refused to comply with demands from the Trump administration. Those demands included ending its diversity, equity, and inclusion programs and screening students for issues like terrorism and anti-Semitism.  White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt spoke with passion at the press briefing. LEAVITT: “The President made it clear to Harvard, ‘Follow federal law. No longer break Title VI, which was passed by Congress, to ensure no student can be discriminated against on the basis of race, and you will receive federal funding. “Unfortunately, Harvard has not taken the President, the administration's demands seriously. “All the President is asking, ‘Don't break federal law, and then you can have your federal funding.'  “I think the President is also begging a good question. More than $2 billion out the door to Harvard when they have a more than $50 billion endowment. Why are the American taxpayers subsidizing a university that has billions of dollars in the bank already? And we certainly should not be funding a place where such grave antisemitism exists.” Kansas pro-life legislature overrode pro-abort governor's vetoes Republican lawmakers in Kansas overrode vetoes from Democrat Governor Laura Kelly last Thursday to pass several bills related to unborn children. One bill recognizes children as dependents from conception for child support programs. The second bill requires public school courses on human development or sexuality to include the development of a baby in the womb. And the third bill provides millions of dollars in funding for pro-life pregnancy centers.  Christian statesman new Ambassador-at-Large for religious freedom Last Thursday, President Donald Trump nominated Mark Walker as the U.S. Ambassador-At-Large for International Religious Freedom. Walker served as a U.S. House Representative for North Carolina's 6th congressional district from 2015 to 2021. Before working in politics, he served in pastoral roles at churches in Florida and North Carolina for 16 years. Listen to his advocacy of religious liberty not only here in America, but worldwide from the floor of the U.S. House back on July 24, 2015. WALKER: “Our commitment to allow people to live out their religious values, without fear of discrimination, is really the cornerstone that developed our country into a force for freedom. “But this liberty isn't just an American right. It should be a foundational element for all people groups. Ronald Reagan said it best. He said, ‘The most essential element of our defense of freedom is our insistence on speaking out for the cause of religious liberty.'” Walker thanked Trump in a post on X.  He wrote, “I'll be relentless in fighting for those targeted who dare to live out their faith. I'm grateful to my beautiful wife and family for their support. May God provide the path and may we have the courage to follow.” More Millennials are reading their Bibles The American Bible Society released the first chapter from their 2025 State of the Bible report. The study identified Bible users as those who read the Bible on their own at least three times a year. Forty-one percent of U.S. adults qualified as Bible users this year, up from 38% last year but down from 49% in 2019. Younger adults are leading the recent growth in Bible users. Thirty-nine percent of Millennials qualified as Bible users this year, up from 30% last year. Bible users are also increasing among Millennial and Gen X men in particular. Archeologists unearthed first Christian hymn captured in new film And finally, Christian music artists revived an ancient hymn last Friday ahead of Resurrection Sunday.  MOVIE NARRATOR: “Archeologists had no idea what they'd uncovered, an 1,800-year-old Christian hymn, the first to be discovered with words and music. It's not even a page, really. It's just 30 centimeters by 5 centimeters, but it provides amazing early evidence, not only of the beliefs and spread of Christianity, but also of its music.” The new recording is based on a papyrus discovered in Egypt in 1918. The manuscript dates from around the third century A.D. It's considered the earliest Christian song preserved with both words and musical notation.  John Dickson, a Christian historian, has worked to bring back the hymn since 2022, hosting a new documentary called “The First Hymn.”  Christian artists Chris Tomlin and Ben Fielding collaborated to release a recording of the ancient song. Here are some of the lyrics from the recording: “All powers cry out in answer. All glory and praise forever to our God, the Father, Son and Holy Spirit. Amen, we sing amen.” Colossians 3:16 says, “Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom, teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord.” Watch the trailer through a special link in our transcript today at www.TheWorldview.com.   You can stream “The First Hymn” movie on line for $15. Close And that's The Worldview on this Wednesday, April 16th, in the year of our Lord 2025. Subscribe for free by Amazon Music or by iTunes or email to our unique Christian newscast at www.TheWorldview.com. Or get the Generations app through Google Play or The App Store. I'm Adam McManus (Adam@TheWorldview.com). Seize the day for Jesus Christ.

The WorldView in 5 Minutes
Trump’s 90-day pause on tariffs except China, Lowe's closes on Resurrection Sunday, Sharp rise in persecution of Christians in Pakistan

The WorldView in 5 Minutes

Play Episode Listen Later Apr 10, 2025


It's Thursday, April 10th, A.D. 2025. This is The Worldview in 5 Minutes heard on 125 radio stations and at www.TheWorldview.com.  I'm Adam McManus. (Adam@TheWorldview.com) By Jonathan Clark Sharp rise in persecution of Christians in Pakistan A new report from Human Rights Focus Pakistan documented a sharp rise in victimization rates against religious minorities in Pakistan during the first three months of this year.  Religious minorities, including Christians, faced more attacks, murders, blasphemy charges, abductions, forced conversions, and forced marriages.  Jeff King, president of International Christian Concern, said, “Pakistan's latest wave of atrocities against Christians in 2025 is not an aberration — it's a grotesque culmination of centuries of state-sanctioned brutality and indifference.” As of January, at least 20 Christians have been imprisoned for their faith in the Islamic country. Pakistan is ranked eighth on the Open Doors' World Watch List of nations where it is most difficult to be a Christian.   Barcelona, Spain looking to close 17 Evangelical churches Evangelical Focus reports that 17 Evangelical churches are facing the threat of closure in Barcelona, Spain. This comes as the local government plans urban development that will affect buildings that churches own or rent. The Evangelical Council of Catalonia warns this could leave thousands of believers without a place to worship. Guillem Correa, the executive director of the group, said, “We understand that the case affects freedom of worship, and what characterizes the exercise of this right is that people can meet in the place of worship throughout the week. Without this, there is no religious freedom and no community life.” Man guilty of targeting churches with fake bombs In the United States, a federal jury returned a guilty verdict last Thursday for a 45-year-old man convicted of targeting churches. Zimnako Salah left fake bombs at churches in Arizona and California in 2023. Authorities discovered he was also building an actual bomb. U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi said, “This Department of Justice has no tolerance for anyone who targets religious Americans for their faith. The perpetrator of this abhorrent hate crime against Christians will face severe punishment.” Psalm 5:4-6 says, “For You are not a God who takes pleasure in wickedness, nor shall evil dwell with You. The boastful shall not stand in Your sight; You hate all workers of iniquity. You shall destroy those who speak falsehood; the LORD abhors the bloodthirsty and deceitful man.” Trump's 90-day pause on tariffs except China President Donald Trump announced a 90-day pause on tariffs for imports from most nations yesterday.  Trump's baseline tariff of 10% remains in place. Meanwhile, much of the additional “reciprocal” tariffs are on hold as countries negotiate with the United States. CNBC carried Trump's remarks on the White House lawn to reporters. TRUMP: “Last year, China made $1 trillion off trade with the United States. That's not right. And now I've reversed it for a short period of time, but we're making now $2 billion a day. Somebody had to do it. “Charles Schwab was here a little while ago, one of the great financial people. He said he's been waiting for 40 years for somebody to do what I did over the last month, and if you didn't do it, you wouldn't have a country. It wouldn't be sustainable. “So, I'm honored to have done it. Nothing is over yet, but we have tremendous amount of spirit from other countries, including China. China wants to make a deal. They just don't know how quite to go about it. They're proud people. President Xi is a proud man. I know him very well, and they don't know quite how to go about it, but they'll figure it out. They want to make a deal. “We have many other countries, as you know. Many more than 75. They're all calling, ‘How do we do this?' They all want to make a deal. I did a 90-day pause for the people that didn't retaliate, because I told them, ‘If you retaliate, we're going to double it.'  And that's what I did with China, because they did retaliate.” Indeed, China was the one country which is not getting relief. Trump said he would raise tariffs on imports from China to 125%. TRUMP: “They will be fair deals for everybody, but they weren't fair to the United States. They were sucking us dry, and you can't do that. We have $36 trillion of debt for a reason.  People took advantage of our country, and they ripped us off for decades.” Stocks surge U.S. stock markets surged in response to Trump's 90-day pause on tariffs.  The S&P 500 rose 8.5% yesterday. The Dow Jones Industrial Average was up over 7%, and the Nasdaq Composite surged 11%. Big tech companies led much of the stock market rally. Nvidia stock was up 15%. Tesla was up 17%. And Apple, Amazon, and Meta were up about 10%.  Lowe's closes on Resurrection Sunday Lowe's is closing its stores nationwide for this coming Resurrection Sunday.  The home improvement chain will close its 1,700 locations on April 20 and give its 300,000 employees a paid day off.   Lowe's CEO Marvin Ellison said, “In recognition of our teams' continued hard work, we are pleased to provide a well-deserved day off so they can spend Easter with their loved ones.” It's the sixth year in a row that Lowe's has done this.  Send a thank you note to Marvin Ellison to let him know you appreciate that. Send it to: Marvin Ellison, Lowe's, 1000 Lowe's Blvd, Mooresville, NC 28117. 66% of U.S. adults have made a personal commitment to Jesus And finally, George Barna released its State of the Church 2025 report.  The study found 66% of U.S. adults say they have made a personal commitment to Jesus that is still important in their life today, That's up from 54% in 2021 but similar to what it was 20 years ago. This growth was fueled by young people, especially young men.  Sixty to seventy percent of men from the Gen Z and Millennial cohorts said they have made a personal commitment to follow Jesus that is still important today. However, many who made these commitments don't necessarily identify as Christian, indicating a patchwork of religious beliefs and identities.  Lamentations 3:40-41 reminds us, “Let us search out and examine our ways, and turn back to the LORD; let us lift our hearts and hands to God in Heaven.” Close And that's The Worldview on this Thursday, April 10th, in the year of our Lord 2025. Subscribe for free by Amazon Music or by iTunes or email to our unique Christian newscast at www.TheWorldview.com. Or get the Generations app through Google Play or The App Store. I'm Adam McManus (Adam@TheWorldview.com). Seize the day for Jesus Christ.

H3 Leadership with Brad Lomenick
254 | Overcoming Doubt with Todd Mullins, pastor of Christ Fellowship, one of the largest Churches in America + Top Weekly Leadership Links

H3 Leadership with Brad Lomenick

Play Episode Listen Later Apr 9, 2025 44:39


Our guest is TODD MULLINS, senior pastor of Christ Fellowship Church in Palm Beach, FL, one of the largest churches in America. Todd is also the best-selling author of his recent book Don't Let Doubt Take You Out. He's also helped start and lead Church United, a powerful collective of churches in South Florida uniting for impact. We discuss faith over fear, truth over doubt, leadership lessons, having John Maxwell in your church, the power of vision, and much more. Plus check out the Top Weekly Leadership Links list. Make sure to visit http://h3leadership.com to access the list all the show notes. Thanks again to our partners for this episode: - OPEN DOORS - Get the latest FREE 2025 World Watch List and prayer guide at http://opendoorsus.org. Since they were founded by Brother Andrew nearly 70 years ago, Open Doors has become the world's largest on-the-ground network working to strengthen persecuted Christians. 380 million Christians face high levels of persecution for their faith- 1 in 7 worldwide. Download the FREE World Watch List now at http://opendoorsus.org. Plus the Prayer Guide gives you the World Watch List, real stories of persecuted Christians, profiles of all 50 countries and specific ways to pray for each one. Again, visit http://opendoorsus.org. And GENERIS – visit http://generis.com. One of the biggest challenges today is building a culture of generosity. But our friends at Generis have the proven giving strategies that will help accelerate generosity in your church, school, college or non-profit. For over 30 years Generis has helped thousands of churches and non profits develop a sustainable culture of generosity to fund their God-inspired vision. Get started at http://generis.com to schedule a conversation with one of their incredible consultants. It will be worth your time. Again, visit http://generis.com to get started. Generis has the experience and heart to inspire generosity, advance your mission, and grow your impact for the Kingdom. 

The WorldView in 5 Minutes
Creator of Morse code gave glory to God, Trump vs. Planned Parenthood, Mississippi on track to end state income tax

The WorldView in 5 Minutes

Play Episode Listen Later Apr 2, 2025


It's Wednesday, April 2nd, A.D. 2025. This is The Worldview in 5 Minutes heard on 125 radio stations and at www.TheWorldview.com.  I'm Adam McManus. (Adam@TheWorldview.com) By Jonathan Clark Nigerian Muslims killed 11 Christians last Thursday Last Thursday, suspected Fulani Muslim militants killed 11 Christians during a raid on a Christian farming community in central Nigeria. A local resident told International Christian Concern, “In the late evening, armed militants surprised us with their assault. We lost 11 valued lives, including a pregnant woman.” Amnesty International Nigeria commented, “The inaction of authorities has left people exposed to violence, resulting in devastating losses.” Nigeria is the seventh most dangerous country worldwide for Christians, according to the Open Doors' World Watch List. Trump demanding pro-life free speech in United Kingdom The U.S. State Department stated Sunday it is concerned about freedom of expression in the United Kingdom. The statement comes as Livia Tossici-Bolt, a pro-life advocate in England faces criminal charges for offering conversation outside an abortion mill.  The U.S. State Department said, “We are monitoring her case. It is important that the U.K. respect and protect freedom of expression.” The case may even threaten a free trade deal between the U.S. and the U.K.  A source in the Trump administration, familiar with the trade negotiations, told The Telegraph there should be “no free trade without free speech.” Appearing on Leading Britain's Conversation with Tom Swarbrick, Claire McCullough, founder of Good Counsel Network, and a friend of Livia Tossici-Bolt, declared that the British law which suppresses free speech outside abortion mills is a massive overreach. McCULLOUGH: “A leaflet saying, “Pregnant? Worried? Help if you want it' is not offending anyone actually, or ‘Here to talk, if you want,' as Livia's poster said. But I just don't see how that is distressing to anybody. Abortion itself is very distressing. I'll agree with you there. But I don't see how an offer of help is distressing. Especially when the people who are offering it are completely peace-keeping people who've never been in any way charged with anything prior to this law coming in.” Proverbs 17:15 says, “He who justifies the wicked, and he who condemns the just, both of them alike are an abomination to the LORD.” Trump vs. Planned Parenthood Politico reports the Trump administration notified nine Planned Parenthood state affiliates on Monday that their funding is being “temporarily withheld.” The letter said Planned Parenthood may be violating federal civil rights laws as well as President Donald Trump's executive orders, specifically his orders against diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services is giving Planned Parenthood 10 days to prove it will comply with Trump's orders. The temporary hold affects nearly $30 million in federal funding. HHS to cut 10,000 jobs Last Thursday, the Department of Health and Human Services announced that it will cut about 10,000 full-time employees.  Department Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. said, “We aren't just reducing bureaucratic sprawl. We are realigning the organization with its core mission and our new priorities in reversing the chronic disease epidemic. This Department will do more – a lot more – at a lower cost to the taxpayer.” The plan will save taxpayers $1.8 billion as part of President Trump's efforts to make the government workforce more efficient. Mississippi on track to end state income tax Last Thursday, Mississippi Republican Governor Tate Reeves signed a bill into law that will end the state's income tax. REEVES: “Mississippi will no longer tax the work, the earnings, or the ambition of its people.” The “Build Up Mississippi Act” will cut the income tax rate to 3% by 2030. After that, annual decreases will eventually bring the rate to 0%. This puts the state on track to become the first to eliminate an existing income tax. Governor Reeves told Mississippians, “The work of your hands belongs to you. It is yours – to feed your family and invest in your home and your community. Because that's what this is ultimately about. Not just numbers on a balance sheet, but lives.” Consumer spending increased slightly The Federal Reserve's primary inflation measure rose last month. The core personal consumption expenditures price index increased by 0.4% in February compared to January. That put the 12-month inflation rate at 2.8% which was more than what economists expected. Consumer spending also increased last month, but was behind expectations.  Creator of Morse code gave glory to God And finally, today is the anniversary of the death of Samuel Morse. The American inventor died on April 2, 1872. Before his important inventions, Morse was known as a painter, even gaining admittance to the British Royal Academy of Art.  Later in life, he would make key contributions to the design and deployment of the telegraph system. He also co-developed the code that bears his name. The Morse code would become the primary language for telegraphy and is still used to this day.  Notably, Morse was a devout Christian who gave glory to God for his inventions. Psalm 115:1 says, “Not to us, O LORD, not to us, but to Your name give glory, for the sake of Your steadfast love and Your faithfulness!” Close And that's The Worldview on this Wednesday, April 2nd, in the year of our Lord 2025. Subscribe for free through Amazon Music or by iTunes or email to our unique Christian newscast at www.TheWorldview.com. Or get the Generations app through Google Play or The App Store. I'm Adam McManus (Adam@TheWorldview.com). Seize the day for Jesus Christ.

The WorldView in 5 Minutes
Only 16% of Christians believe in Trinity, 10,000 Dutch killed by euthanasia, Trump's signs Executive Order on Election Integrity

The WorldView in 5 Minutes

Play Episode Listen Later Mar 27, 2025


It's Thursday, March 27th, A.D. 2025. This is The Worldview in 5 Minutes heard on 125 radio stations and at www.TheWorldview.com.  I'm Adam McManus. (Adam@TheWorldview.com) By Jonathan Clark Afghanistan, India, Nigeria, and Vietnam deny religious liberty The United States Commission on International Religious Freedom released its annual report on Tuesday.  The report advises the U.S. State Department to designate certain countries as Countries of Particular Concern for severe religious freedom violations. The commission recommended countries like Burma, China, North Korea, and Russia to remain on the list. It further recommended adding Afghanistan, India, Nigeria, and Vietnam. Nearly all the countries on the recommendation list are also on Open Doors' World Watch List of nations where it is most difficult to be a Christian. McKenna Wendt with International Christian Concern said, “[We are] particularly grateful for [the report's] focus on the persecution of our Christian brothers and sisters around the world.” Hebrews 13:3 says, “Remember the prisoners as if chained with them—those who are mistreated—since you yourselves are in the body also.” Christianity & Buddhism saw most losses from religious switching Pew Research released a new report on “religious switching” around the world. In many countries, about one out of five adults have left the religious group they grew up in. Christianity and Buddhism saw the most losses from this religious switching, while those with no religious affiliation increased. Religious switching was common across East Asia, Western Europe, North America, and South America. However, countries with large Christian populations, but with little religious switching, include Nigeria, Kenya, Ghana, the Philippines, Poland, and Hungary. 10,000 Dutch were killed by euthanasia Sadly, nearly 10,000 people were killed in the Netherlands last year through euthanasia.  That's up 10% from 2023. Deaths involving psychological suffering were up 60%.  Bruno Waterfield, reporting for The Times, said, “There is concern that growing numbers of suicidal people, especially young people, are asking for help to die.” Proverbs 12:10 says “The tender mercies of the wicked are cruel.” Trump's signs Executive Order on Election Integrity In the United States, President Donald Trump signed an Executive Order Tuesday entitled “Persevering and Protecting the Integrity of American Elections.” The order directs states to require proof of citizenship when people register to vote in federal elections.  The order also stated, “Above all, elections must be honest and worthy of the public trust.  That requires voting methods that produce a voter-verifiable paper record allowing voters to efficiently check their votes to protect against fraud or mistake.” Births increased in states with abortion bans The National Bureau of Economic Research released a report on how abortion bans have affected birth rates. About a dozen states passed near-total abortion bans since the overturning of Roe v. Wade in 2022. This increased the distance to the nearest abortion mill from 50 miles to 300 miles for the average woman in those states.  Notably, births also increased by 2.8% in those states compared to what they were expected to be without the abortion ban.  Only 16% of Christians believe in Trinity Dr. George Barna released his latest research on American Christianity.  About two thirds of U.S. adults identify as Christians according to the report. However, only 16% of self-identified Christians believe in the existence and influence of each person of the Trinity. That number falls to 11% among the general population. People who read the Bible daily and attend church weekly were more likely to believe in God the Father, Jesus the Son, and the Holy Spirit. Dr. Barna noted, “These findings about America's ignorance or rejection of the Trinity are simply another in a long list of examples of people living without the truths and life principles of God shaping their lives.” In Matthew 28:19-20, Jesus said, “Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” Partial solar eclipse this Saturday morning And finally, a partial solar eclipse is coming to parts of North America this week. The moon will pass between the sun and the Earth on Saturday morning for viewers in parts of the northeastern U.S. The sun and moon won't be perfectly aligned, so only part of the sun will be obscured.  The spectacle will also be visible in eastern Canada, western Africa, and Europe.  Close And that's The Worldview on this Thursday, March 27th, in the year of our Lord 2025. Subscribe by Amazon Music or by iTunes or email to our unique Christian newscast at www.TheWorldview.com. Or get the Generations app through Google Play or The App Store. I'm Adam McManus (Adam@TheWorldview.com). Seize the day for Jesus Christ.

The WorldView in 5 Minutes
Trump freezes $20 million of Planned Parenthood funding,12 states consider displaying 10 Commandments in public school, Russia and Ukraine's ceasefire in Black Sea

The WorldView in 5 Minutes

Play Episode Listen Later Mar 26, 2025


It's Wednesday, March 26th, A.D. 2025. This is The Worldview in 5 Minutes heard on 125 radio stations and at www.TheWorldview.com.  I'm Adam McManus. (Adam@TheWorldview.com) By Jonathan Clark 19 Christians arrested in Sudan, Africa Christians continue to suffer in Sudan during the ongoing civil war there. Fighters from one of the sides arrested at least 19 Christians in Sudan in recent months. The Christians face false accusations of supporting the other side in the war. A local attorney told Morning Star News, “This is systematic targeting of Christians who are arrested without taking them to a court of law to get justice.”  Sudan is ranked fifth on the Open Doors' World Watch List of nations where it is most difficult to be a Christian.  Revelation 2:10 says, “Do not fear any of those things which you are about to suffer. Indeed, the devil is about to throw some of you into prison, that you may be tested, and you will have tribulation ten days. Be faithful until death, and I will give you the crown of life.” Evangelicals are now the majority of Protestants in France In 2021, Protestants made up about 9% of the French population that attends religious services regularly. Protestants in France are mostly Evangelical now, reports Evangelical Focus. New data shows that 58% of French Protestants attend an Evangelical Free church outside of the historic Reformed or Lutheran denominations.  Also, a quarter of French Protestants come from non-Protestant families, especially Catholic ones.  Russia and Ukraine's ceasefire in Black Sea Russia and Ukraine agreed to a ceasefire in the Black Sea on Tuesday. This followed talks between officials from both countries and the Trump administration.  The White House said, “The United States and Russia have agreed to ensure safe navigation, eliminate the use of force, and prevent the use of commercial vessels for military purposes in the Black Sea.” The agreement is the latest in the attempt by U.S. President Donald Trump to bring an end to the war between Russia and Ukraine.  12 states consider displaying 10 Commandments in public school In the United States, over a dozen states have introduced bills to display the Ten Commandments in public school classrooms. Louisiana was the first state to mandate such displays. Texas is another state considering such a measure. Jonathan Saenz is an attorney with Texas Values who helped draft his state's bill. He told CBN News this is what voters want. SAENZ: “We're confident, with the recent election results, that this is what voters want. They want to make sure that we preserve our values and that we teach about these things in our public schools and we get back to basics.” And Montana Republican State Senator Keith Regier spoke from the floor of the Montana Senate in favor of posting The Ten Commandments in public schools. REGIER: “God is mentioned in the Declaration of Independence. It's on our money, in music, like “God bless America.” It's in our literature, and it's in the pledge to the flag. Why would we not mention God in our schools? The courts need to understand that by removing God, they're replacing it with nothing.” Speaking of His commandments, God said in Deuteronomy 6:7, 9, “You shall teach them diligently to your children, and shall talk of them when you sit in your house, when you walk by the way, when you lie down, and when you rise up. … You shall write them on the doorposts of your house and on your gates.” Trump freezes $20 million of funding to Planned Parenthood The Wall Street Journal reported yesterday that the Trump administration is freezing $120 million in federal funding for so-called family planning grants. This includes $20 million in funding for abortion giant Planned Parenthood.  The federal funding freeze is part of a hold on grants that align with diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives.  Marjorie Dannenfelser, president of Susan B. Anthony Pro-Life America, said, “This is a victory for the unborn and for taxpayers who have been forced to fund an industry that ends innocent lives.” Federal Reserve leaves interest rate alone The Federal Reserve decided to leave its benchmark interest rate unchanged yesterday.  The rate remains in the range of 4.25% to 4.5%. The Fed indicated rate cuts are likely later this year. President Trump responded by calling for rate cuts as his import tariffs transition their way into the economy.  Young Christian women more liberal than male peers Pew Research released their 2024 Religious Landscape Survey recently.  Data shows that young, self-identified Christian women are more liberal than their male peers. Less than half of the young men support abortion and sexually perverted lifestyles. However, a majority of the young women support the same things. This gender gap in the church continues a trend that Pew Research has documented for at least 10 years. Average church raised $165,000 annually And finally, Faith Communities Today released a report on the annual income of churches in the U.S. Church income is recovering after a dip during the COVID-19 pandemic. The average church brought in $165,000 in 2023, up from $120,000 in 2020. The average church spent $160,000 over the year, and the average church member gave $2,222.  However, the rise in income has not been enough to keep up with inflation. But 61% of churches were still able to self-report good or excellent financial health. Close And that's The Worldview on this Wednesday, March 26th, in the year of our Lord 2025. Subscribe by Amazon Music or by iTunes or email to our unique Christian newscast at www.TheWorldview.com. Or get the Generations app through Google Play or The App Store. I'm Adam McManus (Adam@TheWorldview.com). Seize the day for Jesus Christ.

The WorldView in 5 Minutes
Christian astronaut gives glory to Jesus, Putin agreed to limited ceasefire, Missouri AG to Planned Parenthood: No more Abortion Kill Pills

The WorldView in 5 Minutes

Play Episode Listen Later Mar 19, 2025


It's Wednesday, March 19th, A.D. 2025. This is The Worldview in 5 Minutes heard on 125 radio stations and at www.TheWorldview.com.  I'm Adam McManus. (Adam@TheWorldview.com) By Jonathan Clark Pakistan court annulled forced marriage of Christian girl to Muslim man A court in Pakistan issued an historic ruling in favor of a Christian woman last month. Shahida Bibi was 11 years old when her mother eloped with a Muslim man who then “gave” Bibi to his brother. She faced years of abuse and coercion and gave birth to two children. She was also forced into an Islamic marriage once she turned 18. Thankfully, a court annulled the forced marriage. Alliance Defending Freedom commented, “While these forced conversions and marriage abuses happen across the globe, they are especially prevalent in Pakistan. In coordination with our allied lawyers in the country, we are taking every step possible to prevent these situations from occurring.” Pakistan is ranked eighth on the Open Doors' World Watch List of nations where it is most difficult to be a Christian.  Bible sales nearly double United Kingdom Bible sales have nearly doubled in the United Kingdom, reports The Times. Between 2019 and 2024, the sale of Bibles increased 87% from 2.69 million British pounds to 5.02 million pounds.  Publishers credit this increased demand to the spiritual interest of young people. Sam Richardson, with The Society for Promoting Christian Knowledge, said, “Atheism, once considered by modern society to be the view of most rational adults, no longer seems to carry the same weight or appeal. Young people — Gen Z in particular — are statistically far less likely to identify as atheists than their parents.” Psalm 119:9 asks, “How can a young man cleanse his way? By taking heed according to Your word.” Putin agreed to limited ceasefire Russian President Vladimir Putin agreed to a limited ceasefire in Ukraine during a call with U.S. President Donald Trump yesterday.  For 30 days, Russia said it would halt strikes on energy and infrastructure targets in Ukraine. This falls short of a complete 30-day ceasefire that Ukraine has agreed to.  Trump wrote on Truth Social, “My phone conversation today with President Putin of Russia was a very good and productive one. … We will be working quickly to have a Complete Ceasefire and, ultimately, an END to this very horrible War between Russia and Ukraine.” Appearing on the Real Clear Politics Radio Show, reporter Phil Wegman, offered a fascinating boxing analogy. Listen. WEGMAN: “What is absent from this readout between Trump and Putin is any type of fireworks. Both Trump and Putin, they know each other. They're known entities, and while Trump isn't as aggressive in his description of the Russian dictator, he doesn't trust the guy. That much is clear from his moves on arming the Ukrainians during his first term, from his moves on Nord Stream. (Look at the map here) “I think this is just two folks who know each other pretty well, who are circling one another before they get into the ring and actually begin trading diplomatic blows to get this thing to an end.” By the way, Nord Stream is a network of offshore natural gas pipelines which run under the Baltic Sea, from Russia all the way to Germany (759 miles), to provide Western Europe with natural gas. Trump sides with church in zoning case The Trump administration is backing a church in a case over religious discrimination with a California city. The city of Santa Ana denied a request by Anchor Stone Christian Church to operate in the city's professional district. The city's zoning laws make it difficult for churches, but not other groups like museums or art galleries, to operate in the district. The U.S. Department of Justice supports the church, accusing the city leaders of Santa Ana of violating the federal law by giving less favorable treatment to religious assemblies.  Environmental Protection Agency rolls out biggest deregulation ever The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency announced the biggest deregulatory action in U.S. history last week. The agency announced 31 actions aimed at unleashing American energy, lowering the cost of living for American families, and giving power back to states to make their own decisions. The agency's administrator, Lee Zeldin, said, “Today is the greatest day of deregulation our nation has seen. We are driving a dagger straight into the heart of the climate change religion to drive down cost of living for American families, unleash American energy, bring auto jobs back to the U.S., and more.” Missouri AG to Planned Parenthood: No more Abortion Kill Pills Missouri is cracking down on chemical abortions in the state. Missouri Attorney General Andrew Bailey issued a cease-and-desist order to Planned Parenthood last week.  Bailey noted, “This order is a necessary enforcement mechanism to prevent Planned Parenthood from continuing to disregard Missouri law and to protect the health and safety of Missouri women. Planned Parenthood has a documented history of subverting state law, including failure to file complication reports.” Two astronauts returned after 9 months stranded in space And finally … SPACEX ANNOUNCER: “And splashdown. Crew Nine, back on Earth.  (applause and cheers) Butch, Suni, on behalf of SpaceX, welcome home!” two NASA astronauts headed back to Earth yesterday after spending an unexpected nine months aboard the International Space Station.   Last June, they anticipated only an 8-day stay. They languished in space for 286 days – 35 times longer than the initially scheduled mission. Astronauts Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams had planned on a short mission last spring. However, the Boeing Starliner crew capsule that took them to space encountered technical issues, stranding them on the space station.  The astronauts returned thanks to a SpaceX Freedom capsule.  The capsule entered our atmosphere at 17,500 miles per hour.  The heat shield brought the speed down to 350 miles per hour. And then the four parachutes, which opened at 6,500 feet above Earth, lowered the speed to 119 miles per hour, enabling the capsule to land gently at 15 miles per hour in the Gulf of America off the coast of Tallahassee, Florida. During an interview on board the space station, Wilmore shared his Christian faith. WILMORE: “My feeling on all of this goes back to my faith. It's bound in my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. He is working out His plan and His purposes for His glory throughout all of humanity. And how that plays into our lives is significant and important, and however that plays out, I am content because I understand that. I understand that He's at work in all things.” Romans 8:28 says, "And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose.” Close And that's The Worldview on this Wednesday, March 19th, in the year of our Lord 2025. Subscribe by Amazon Music or by iTunes or email to our unique Christian newscast at www.TheWorldview.com. Or get the Generations app through Google Play or The App Store. I'm Adam McManus (Adam@TheWorldview.com). Seize the day for Jesus Christ.

H3 Leadership with Brad Lomenick
251 |Top 20 Leadership Podcasts to Check Out + Author of new book Throw No Rocks Charlie Watkins

H3 Leadership with Brad Lomenick

Play Episode Listen Later Mar 19, 2025 42:40


Our guest is CHARLIE WATKINS, CEO of Dominion Enterprises, longtime business leader and C Suite Executive, and author of the book Throw No Rocks. Charlie has been married for over 45 years and spends much of his time involved in his church and mentoring men. And also serves on the board of ICM, a global church building and development organization. We discuss leadership, mentoring men, forgiveness, the power of putting others first, and much more. Plus check out the list of 20 Leadership Podcasts to check out. Make sure to visit http://h3leadership.com to access the list and all the show notes. Thanks again to our partners for this episode: - OPEN DOORS - Get the latest FREE 2025 World Watch List and prayer guide at http://opendoorsus.org. Since they were founded by Brother Andrew nearly 70 years ago, Open Doors has become the world's largest on-the-ground network working to strengthen persecuted Christians. 380 million Christians face high levels of persecution for their faith- 1 in 7 worldwide. Download the FREE World Watch List now at http://opendoorsus.org. Plus the Prayer Guide gives you the World Watch List, real stories of persecuted Christians, profiles of all 50 countries and specific ways to pray for each one. Again, visit http://opendoorsus.org. And GENEROUS COFFEE – visit http://generouscoffee.com. You are going to drink coffee anyways, so why not make it life changing coffee? Generous is a specialty coffee roaster who donates 100% of profits to non-profits focused on fighting human injustice around the world. Whether a church, business, or event looking to order coffee in bulk, or simply ordering for your home visit http://generouscoffee.com and use Rate Code H3 for 10% off your entire order. You'll be drinking some of the highest quality craft roasted coffee in the world. Again, visit http://generouscoffee.com and use code H3 for 10% off your entire order.

The WorldView in 5 Minutes
Comedian Rosie O'Donnell moved to Ireland to escape Trump; RFK, Jr wants to ban artificial dyes in food; Bus driver buys PJs for crying boy who had none for Pajama Day

The WorldView in 5 Minutes

Play Episode Listen Later Mar 14, 2025 7:54


It's Friday, March 14th, A.D. 2025. This is The Worldview in 5 Minutes heard on 125 radio stations and at www.TheWorldview.com. I'm Adam McManus. (Adam@TheWorldview.com) By Adam McManus Myanmar announces elections amid unrelenting persecution General Min Aung Hlaing, head of the military junta ruling Myanmar, has announced that the country will hold general elections either in December 2025 or in January 2026, reports International Christian Concern. The military junta has repeatedly delayed the elections due to unrest in the country. Critics say that a free and fair election is still impossible. The military has spent the last four years eliminating political opposition, jailing proponents of democracy, and waging war against the civilian population. According to Open Doors' World Watch List, Myanmar is the 13th most dangerous country worldwide for Christians. RFK, Jr wants to ban artificial dyes in food On Monday, Robert F. Kennedy Jr., the U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services, reportedly told food industry leaders that he wants artificial dyes to be removed from American food products, reports One America News. Schumer flip flops, now supports GOP funding bill On Thursday, Democratic Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer of New York flip flopped. After saying he would allow the government shutdown on Wednesday, he announced on the Senate floor late yesterday afternoon that he plans to vote to advance a House-passed six-month government funding bill, despite the strong opposition of many Democrats, reports News Nation. SCHUMER: “I have said many times, there are no winners in a government shutdown, but there are certainly victims. The most vulnerable Americans who rely on federal programs to feed their families, to access medical care, and to stay financially afloat. Communities that depend on government services to function will suffer and suffer greatly. “For sure, the Republican bill is a terrible option. It is deeply partisan. It doesn't address far too many of this country's needs. … “I will vote to keep the government open and not shut it down.” Schumer is only the second Senate Democrat to state definitively his intention to vote to advance the GOP-written bill — joining Democratic Senator John Fetterman of Pennsylvania who warned a shutdown would create chaos and risk a recession. But it's highly likely that Schumer will give political cover to other Democrats to vote to advance the 99-page package. If passed, the bill would increase defense spending by $6 billion, boost funding for border security, and cut nondefense programs by $13 billion, reports TheHill.com. Senate Republicans control 53 seats and would need at least eight Democratic votes to reach the 60-vote threshold needed to overcome a filibuster. Republican Senator Rand Paul of Kentucky, a staunch fiscal conservative, says he would vote against the stopgap measure for not doing enough to cut the deficit. Arizona prisoner speeds up lethal injection for his murder A prisoner scheduled to be executed next week in what would be Arizona's first use of the death penalty in over two years passed up a chance to ask for a reprieve from his death sentence, reports The Associated Press. Aaron Brian Gunches, age 53, is scheduled to be executed by lethal injection on March 19th for his murder conviction in the 2002 shooting death of Ted Price, his girlfriend's ex-husband, near the Phoenix suburb of Mesa. Genesis 9:6 says, “Whoever sheds man's blood, by man his blood shall be shed. For in the image of God He made man.” Comedian Rosie O'Donnell moved to Ireland to escape Trump Rosie O'Donnell, the lesbian actress and comedian, described why President Donald Trump's election to a second term prompted her to move to Ireland, reports ABC News. She shared her life update in a new TikTok video post on Tuesday. O'DONNELL: “Well, hey everybody. It's me, Rosie O'Donnell, star of The Flintstones. It's Tuesday, all day, as my Nana would say, and I'm here in Ireland. Moved here on January 15th. It's been pretty wonderful, I have to say. The people are so loving and so kind, so welcoming. “I'm in the process of getting my Irish citizenship, as I have Irish grandparents. Although I was never someone who thought I would move to another country, that's what I decided would be the best for myself and my 12-year-old child. I'm happy. Clay is happy. I miss my other kids. I miss my friends. I miss many things about life there at home.” O'Donnell insinuated that all citizens do not have equal rights, perhaps an indirect reference to her own child's non-binary identity and President Trump's insistence that males should not compete in women's sports. O'DONNELL: “When it is safe for all citizens to have equal rights there in America, that's when we will consider coming back. It's been heartbreaking to see what's happening politically and hard for me personally as well. “It seems as though the only place you can get the news of what's really happening, in terms of protests, and whatnot is on Tiktok. The mainstream media has been letting us all down there in America where the fourth estate is required in order to maintain a democracy. You know, they haven't been doing their job.” O'Donnell concluded her video by urging fellow liberals to stand up to President Donald Trump and presumably any Senator or Congressman who passes his America First agenda. O'DONNELL: “I encourage everyone to stand up, to use their voice, to protest, to demand that we follow the Constitution in our country, and not a king, not a man, and we don't have cruelty as part of our governing style.” Bus driver buys PJs for crying boy who had none for Pajama Day And finally, a bus driver in Kentucky went above and beyond the call of duty when he saw one of his regular riders in distress, reports Good News Network. A child named Levi was crying when driver Larry Farrish Jr. arrived at his stop. The 35-year-old bus driver said, “Normally when I pull up, he's standing there waiting for me with a big smile, but on this day, he was sitting on the ground with a jacket over his head,” according to TODAY.com. When he asked what was wrong, he discovered that Levi had no pajamas to participate in Pajama Day at Engelhard Elementary School. Farrish went to a nearby Family Dollar and picked up two pairs of pajamas and surprised Levi in class. The bus driver said, “He was so excited — you should've seen how his face lit up.” Levi confessed that he had a “happy cry.” The world needs more Larry Farrish Jrs. Proverbs 14:21 says, "Blessed is he who is generous to the poor." Close And that's The Worldview on this Friday, March 14th, in the year of our Lord 2025. Subscribe by Amazon Music or by iTunes or email to our unique Christian newscast at www.TheWorldview.com. Or get the Generations app through Google Play or The App Store. I'm Adam McManus (Adam@TheWorldview.com). Seize the day for Jesus Christ.

The WorldView in 5 Minutes
Chase will no longer discriminate against conservatives, Dept. of Education to cut staff by 50%, Devout British Christians gave 11% of income to charity

The WorldView in 5 Minutes

Play Episode Listen Later Mar 13, 2025


It's Thursday, March 13th, A.D. 2025. This is The Worldview in 5 Minutes heard on 125 radio stations and at www.TheWorldview.com.  I'm Adam McManus. (Adam@TheWorldview.com) By Jonathan Clark Pakistani police rescue abducted 12-year-old Christian girl A 12-year-old Christian girl in Pakistan reunited with her parents last week after being abducted by a Muslim neighbor. Saba Shafique was abducted back in January and forced to marry her abductor.  Saba was beaten and locked in a room until police recovered her. She is glad to be reunited with her family. Sadly, such forced marriages affect hundreds of girls from religious minorities in the Islamic country every year, reports Morning Star News. Pakistan is ranked 8th on the Open Doors' World Watch List of nations where it is most difficult to be a Christian.  Devout British Christians gave 11% of income to charity The Christian charity Stewardship released their latest Generosity Report on Christians in the United Kingdom. The study found the average monthly giving for Christians equated to 5% of their income. That's twice the national average.  Christians who attend church and read the Bible at least once a week give even more, donating 11% of their income. That's almost five times the national average. The study also found such committed Christians experienced the most joy when giving compared to those who attend church and read the Bible less frequently.  2 Corinthians 9:7 says, “So let each one give as he purposes in his heart, not grudgingly or of necessity; for God loves a cheerful giver.” Stocks rose with lower inflation In the United States, U.S. stocks rose yesterday after February's inflation report showed signs of slowing price increases. The consumer price index rose 0.2% last month, putting February's annual inflation rate at 2.8%. That's down from 3% in January.  Stocks rallied at the news after a couple of days of losses. Markets have fluctuated in the face of President Donald Trump's tariff escalations with countries around the world.  However, Trump did not rule out a recession for the U.S. during an interview on Fox News. Instead, he signaled a period of transition. TRUMP: “There is a period of transition, because what we're doing is very big. We're bringing wealth back to America. That's a big thing. And there are always periods of -- it takes a little time. But I think it should be great for us.” Chase will no longer discriminate against conservatives, Christians A major bank has changed its Code of Conduct to protect against political and religious debanking.  JPMorgan Chase stated in a letter last week that it will not discriminate based on religious affiliation or religious views. Conservative and religious groups have complained in recent years that Chase has canceled their banking services.  Following the updated Code of Conduct, Jeremy Tedesco with Alliance Defending Freedom said, “This is a major victory for free speech and religious freedom in the marketplace. … We expect Chase's new policy to set the standard for the rest of the financial industry.” Pro-abortion activist paid $10,000 fine for vandalizing pro-life center Officials in Florida have exacted a $10,000 fine from a pro-abortion activist associated with Antifa.  Gabriella Oropesa worked with several other activists to vandalize pro-life pregnancy centers in the Sunshine state in 2022. They spray painted threatening messages on the facilities like “YOUR TIME IS UP!!” and “WE'RE COMING for U.” Oropesa also faces up to 10 years in prison.  Dept. of Education to cut staff by 50% The U.S. Department of Education announced Tuesday it plans to reduce its staff by 50%. Impacted staff will be placed on administrative leave starting March 21. Secretary of Education Linda McMahon said, “Today's reduction in force reflects the Department of Education's commitment to efficiency, accountability, and ensuring that resources are directed where they matter most: to students, parents, and teachers.”  This will cut the Department's workforce from 4,133 workers to 2,183 workers.  9% of Americans have interactive spiritual relationship with God And finally, Dr. George Barna  released a new report on Americans minimizing the role of God in their lives. Only 40% of U.S. adults believe God exists or influences human lives. Sixteen percent say God is the most important element of their lives, and 9% say they have an intimate and interactive spiritual relationship with God.  Among self-identified Christians, only 20% describe their relationship with God as intimate and interactive and nearly one-third do not believe He is actively involved in every aspect of their daily existence.  In Revelation 2:4-5, Jesus said, “Nevertheless I have this against you, that you have left your first love. Remember therefore from where you have fallen; repent and do the first works, or else I will come to you quickly and remove your lampstand from its place—unless you repent.” Close And that's The Worldview on this Thursday, March 13th, in the year of our Lord 2025. Subscribe by Amazon Music or by iTunes or email to our unique Christian newscast at www.TheWorldview.com. Or get the Generations app through Google Play or The App Store. I'm Adam McManus (Adam@TheWorldview.com). Seize the day for Jesus Christ.

H3 Leadership with Brad Lomenick
250 | USA Today Best-selling Author of Culture Matters Jenni Catron + 25 Top Leadership Newsletters to Subscribe to

H3 Leadership with Brad Lomenick

Play Episode Listen Later Mar 12, 2025 49:28


Our guest is JENNI CATRON, a USA Today Best-Selling Author of her latest book, Culture Matters. Jenni is the founder and CEO of 4SIGHT Group, a team and organizational culture expert and consultant, host of the LeadCulture Podcast, and speaker and thought leader. We discuss why culture matters, how to change culture from the inside, trends in leadership, and much more. Plus check out the list of 25 Newsletters to Subscribe to. Make sure to visit http://h3leadership.com to access the list all the show notes. Thanks again to our partners for this episode: - OPEN DOORS - Get the latest FREE 2025 World Watch List and prayer guide at http://opendoorsus.org. Since they were founded by Brother Andrew nearly 70 years ago, Open Doors has become the world's largest on-the-ground network working to strengthen persecuted Christians. 380 million Christians face high levels of persecution for their faith- 1 in 7 worldwide. Download the FREE World Watch List now at http://opendoorsus.org. Plus the Prayer Guide gives you the World Watch List, real stories of persecuted Christians, profiles of all 50 countries and specific ways to pray for each one. Again, visit http://opendoorsus.org. And GENEROUS COFFEE – visit http://generouscoffee.com. You are going to drink coffee anyways, so why not make it life changing coffee? Generous is a specialty coffee roaster who donates 100% of profits to non-profits focused on fighting human injustice around the world. Whether a church, business, or event looking to order coffee in bulk, or simply ordering for your home visit http://generouscoffee.com and use Rate Code H3 for 10% off your entire order. You'll be drinking some of the highest quality craft roasted coffee in the world. Again, visit http://generouscoffee.com and use code H3 for 10% off your entire order.

H3 Leadership with Brad Lomenick
246 | Carlos Whittaker + Top Weekly Leadership Links

H3 Leadership with Brad Lomenick

Play Episode Listen Later Feb 12, 2025 47:46


Our guest is CARLOS WHITTAKER, a Best-selling author of multiple books, including his most recent book Reconnected. Carlos is a speaker, curator of the InstaFamilia community on Instagram, host of the Carlos Whittaker Podcast, and now a filmmaker and documentary creator with his most recent RECONNECTED Documentary. We discuss book tours, amusement parks, being on Mike Rowe's podcast, next version of his own podcast, Human School, and much more. Make sure to visit http://h3leadership.com to access the full list and all the show notes. Thanks again to our partners for this episode: OPEN DOORS - Get the latest FREE 2025 World Watch List and prayer guide at http://opendoorsus.org. Since they were founded by Brother Andrew nearly 70 years ago, Open Doors has become the world's largest on-the-ground network working to strengthen persecuted Christians. 380 million Christians face high levels of persecution for their faith- 1 in 7 worldwide. Download the FREE World Watch List now. Plus the Prayer Guide gives you the World Watch List, real stories of persecuted Christians, profiles of all 50 countries and specific ways to pray for each one. Again, visit http://opendoorsus.org. And GENERIS – one of the biggest challenges today is building a culture of generosity. But our friends at Generis have the proven giving strategies that will help accelerate generosity in your church, school, college or non-profit. For over 30 years Generis has helped thousands of churches and non profits develop a sustainable culture of generosity to fund their God-inspired vision. Get started at http://generis.com to schedule a conversation with one of their incredible consultants. It will be worth your time. Again, visit http://generis.com to get started. Generis has the experience and heart to inspire generosity, advance your mission, and grow your impact for the Kingdom. 

The WorldView in 5 Minutes
Trump: Military will no longer pay for abortion travel; RFK, Jr. voted out of Senate Committee; Department of Education getting phased down & out

The WorldView in 5 Minutes

Play Episode Listen Later Feb 5, 2025


It's Wednesday, February 5th, A.D. 2025. This is The Worldview in 5 Minutes heard on 125 radio stations and at www.TheWorldview.com.  I'm Adam McManus. (Adam@TheWorldview.com) By Jonathan Clark and Adam McManus Pakistani Christian brothers released from prison Praise God! Two Christian brothers are now free from prison in Pakistan. A court acquitted the twin brothers last month. Eighteen-year-olds Sahil and Raheel Shahid were facing false Islamic blasphemy accusations. The brothers' attorney told Morning Star News, “We believe that this case was a conspiracy against the Christian residents so that vested interests could grab their land and properties.” False blasphemy accusations are an increasing problem in Pakistan, a 97%-Muslim nation, The country is ranked 8th on the Open Doors' World Watch List of the most difficult places to be a Christian.  Countries in which religious nationalism predominates Pew Research released a global report on religious nationalism. The report identified religious nationalists as people who believe in the historically predominant religion of their country and believe that their religion should influence their laws and leaders. Religious nationalism was most common in Kenya for countries with Christian roots. For Buddhists, the country with the most religious nationalism was Thailand. For Hindus, it was India. For Jews, it was Israel. And for Muslims, it was Indonesia and Bangladesh.  Religious nationalism for Christians was most common in Africa and South America while being the least common in Europe. The United States was somewhere in-between with just 6% of adults identifying as religious nationalists. Psalm 33:12 says, “Blessed is the nation whose God is the LORD, the people He has chosen as His own inheritance.” Senator Cassidy explained his conditional support of RFK, Jr. In the United States, Senator Bill Cassidy of Louisiana, a moderate Republican who voted to convict President Donald Trump in February 2021 of “incitement of insurrection”, was a key vote as member of the Senate Finance Committee which considered Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. to be the next Secretary of Health and Human Services. As a physician, Senator Cassidy was especially concerned with Kennedy's questions about a possible link between childhood vaccines and autism.  Before the committee vote, Cassidy made this statement from the Senate floor. CASSIDY: “Now, Mr. Kennedy and the administration reached out seeking to reassure me regarding their commitment to protecting the public health benefit of vaccination. To this end, Mr. Kennedy and the administration committed that he and I would have an unprecedentedly close, collaborative working relationship if he is confirmed. “We will meet or speak multiple times a month. If confirmed, he will maintain the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices recommendations without changes. CDC will not remove statements on their website, pointing out that vaccines do not cause autism. “He committed that they help committee chair, whether it's me or someone else, may choose a representative on any board or commission formed to review vaccine safety. These commitments, and my expectation that we can have a great working relationship to make America healthy again, is the basis of my support. “If Mr. Kennedy is confirmed, I will use my authority as chairman of the Senate committee, with oversight of HHS, to rebuff any attempt to remove the public's access to life-saving vaccines without iron-clad, causational, scientific evidence that can be accepted and defended before the mainstream scientific community and before Congress.” RFK, Jr. voted out of Senate Committee On Tuesday, the U.S. Senate Finance Committee voted to advance President Donald Trump's nomination of Robert F. Kennedy Jr. to lead the Department of Health and Human Services.  The committee voted 14-13 along party lines. Committee Chair Mike Crapo of Idaho oversaw the committee vote. CRAPO: “We now have not only a quorum, but all members of the committee are present. I move that the committee favorably report the nomination of the Honorable Robert F. Kennedy, Jr of California to be Secretary of Health and Human Services. Is there a second?” COMMITTEE MEMBER: “Second.” CLERK: “Mr. Chairman, the final tally was 14 ayes, 13 nays. CRAPO: “The vote was 14-13. The nomination is reported favorably.” Kennedy's nomination now goes before the full U.S. Senate where he needs a simple majority or a minimum of 51 votes to be confirmed. Trump: Military will no longer pay for abortion travel Last Tuesday, the Trump administration announced the military will no longer cover travel expenses for services members to get abortions. U.S. Republican Senator Tommy Tuberville of Alabama notably stood against the Defense Department's funding for abortion under Biden's leadership. He said, “For the past two years, I have been sounding the alarm about the Pentagon's illegal and immoral practice of using taxpayer dollars to fund abortions. I took a lot of heat when I stood alone for nearly a year in holding senior Pentagon promotions over this—but as of today, it was all worth it.” Galatians 6:9 says, “And let us not grow weary while doing good, for in due season we shall reap if we do not lose heart.” Department of Education getting phased down The Trump administration is beginning to scale back the Department of Education.  Already, the administration has placed dozens of employees on paid administrative leave. This is part of a broader effort to remove hires based on diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives.  The administration is also working on an executive order that would begin the process of eliminating the Education Department entirely. GDP slowed In economic news, the U.S. Gross Domestic Product slowed down during the last three months of 2024. The economy grew by 2.3% during the fourth quarter of last year, down from 3.1% during the third quarter. Economists had expected 2.5% growth for the fourth quarter.  Also, the Federal Reserve held its key interest rate at 4.25%-4.5%, saying inflation remains somewhat elevated. The Fed cut interest rates three times since September 2024 and President Trump is calling for more cuts.  Virginia voted down anti-homeschooling bill Virginia lawmakers voted down a bill that would have eliminated the religious exemption from the state's public education requirements.  The bill would have added many regulations for parents who educate their children at home for religious reasons. Republican Governor Glenn Youngkin wrote on X, “I stand with parents across Virginia in opposition to Senate Bill 1031. We cannot allow this attack on homeschooling to become law.” Court: San Francisco must rehire employees who refused COVID shot And finally, a federal appeals court ruled in favor of Christian employees who were fired for not getting a COVID-19 shot in California. The city of San Francisco must now rehire workers who were terminated for refusing the shot. The ruling stated, “Appellants' coerced decision between their faith and their livelihood imposed emotional damage which cannot now be fully undone.  … [San Francisco's] finding that Appellants' religious beliefs were insufficient to warrant any accommodations can only be described as a ‘dignitary affront.' ... The circumstances surrounding Appellants' termination constitute irreparable harm.” Close And that's The Worldview on this Wednesday, February 5th, in the year of our Lord 2025. Subscribe by Amazon Music or by iTunes or email to our unique Christian newscast at www.TheWorldview.com. Or get the Generations app through Google Play or The App Store. I'm Adam McManus (Adam@TheWorldview.com). Seize the day for Jesus Christ.

The WorldView in 5 Minutes
North Korea tortures, publicly executes, imprisons Christians; DeepSeek, a Chinese AI, beats ChatGBT; California ends prosecution of two pro-life activists

The WorldView in 5 Minutes

Play Episode Listen Later Jan 29, 2025


It's Wednesday, January 29th, A.D. 2025. This is The Worldview in 5 Minutes heard on 125 radio stations and at www.TheWorldview.com.  I'm Adam McManus. (Adam@TheWorldview.com) By Jonathan Clark North Korea tortures, publicly executes, imprisons Christians The Database Center for North Korean Human Rights released their 2024 White Paper on Religious Freedom in North Korea. The research is based on the accounts of North Koreans who defected to South Korea. It includes over 15,000 responses and over 2,000 cases of persecution. Ninety-six percent of respondents said that religious activities are not permitted in North Korea. And only 5% report having seen religious items like a Bible.  Yeo-sang Yoon, director of the North Korean Human Rights Archives, noted, “Right now, people [of faith] are being tortured, sent to concentration camps, or publicly executed.” North Korea remains the worst country on the Open Doors' World Watch List of nations where it is most difficult to be a Christian.  Young Brits more likely to have Christian faith than be atheist OnePoll released a survey this month entitled, “Belief in Britain.”  The study of 10,000 people found atheism is losing influence on younger generations. Only 13% of those aged 18-24 identify as atheist compared to 25% of those aged 45-64. Younger people were also the most likely to identify as religious, meaning they worship regularly and ascribe to a specific belief system.  DeepSeek, a Chinese AI, beats ChatGBT DeepSeek, a Chinese artificial intelligence company, released a large language model last week. The Artificial Intelligence assistant quickly outperformed ChatGPT in downloads at the Apple App Store. DeepSeek's app surprised experts, performing better than American AI chatbots despite being produced with less money and computing power.  The news sent the tech-heavy Nasdaq Composite down 3% on Monday. U.S. chipmaker Nvidia led the losses, dropping 17% or nearly $600 billion in market value. It's the largest one-day loss for any company.  Trump bans woke gender ideology from military President Donald Trump signed executive orders on Monday to keep radical gender ideology and diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives out of the military. Trump noted, “Consistent with the military mission and longstanding [Dept. of Defense] policy, expressing a false ‘gender identity' divergent from an individual's sex cannot satisfy the rigorous standards necessary for military service.” Trump's orders also offer reinstatement for troops who faced expulsion for not getting the COVID-19 shot during the pandemic. Supreme Court considers a religious charter school case Last Friday, the U.S. Supreme Court agreed to hear a case involving the first publicly funded religious charter school. Oklahoma's state school board approved a Catholic church to open a charter school. St. Isidore of Seville Catholic Virtual School was set to begin classes in August 2023. But the state's supreme court ruled against the approval. The case is now before the U.S. Supreme Court. Jim Campbell with Alliance Defending Freedom said, “The U.S. Constitution protects St. Isidore's freedom to operate according to its faith and supports the board's decision to approve such learning options for Oklahoman families.”  California ends prosecution of two pro-life activists Praise God! The state of California agreed to end its prosecution of two pro-life activists on Monday. David Daleiden and Sandra Merritt have faced years of litigation and millions of dollars in fines for their pro-life work. Their undercover videos exposed Planned Parenthood's illegal sale of the body parts of aborted babies. David and Sandra shared the videos through their organization The Center for Medical Progress.  David said, “After enduring nine years of weaponized political prosecution, putting an end to the lawfare launched by Kamala Harris is a huge victory for my investigative reporting and for the public's right to know the truth about Planned Parenthood's sale of aborted baby body parts. Now we all must get to work to protect families and infants from the criminal abortion-industrial complex.” Proverbs 24:11 says, “Deliver those who are drawn toward death, and hold back those stumbling to the slaughter.” Christians minister to victims of California fires And finally, Christians continue to provide relief to those affected by wildfires in California. CBN's Operation Blessing is working with local first responders and churches to bring long-term assistance. In the midst of suffering and loss, pastors are seeing a surge in church attendance. Listen to a comment from Pastor Steve Wilburn of Core Church LA  to CBN News. WILBURN: “We're seeing people come into the church, and we're seeing hurting people. You know, it's been said in times past. You know, if you're going to speak to hurting people, you're never going to run out of people to speak to. But we're seeing people make commitments to Christ. That's what we're seeing.” In Matthew 11:28, Jesus said, “Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.” Close And that's The Worldview on this Wednesday, January 29th, in the year of our Lord 2025. Subscribe by Amazon Music or by iTunes or email to our unique Christian newscast at www.TheWorldview.com. Or get the Generations app through Google Play or The App Store. I'm Adam McManus (Adam@TheWorldview.com). Seize the day for Jesus Christ.

H3 Leadership with Brad Lomenick
244 | January Top Ten Leadership List + 14 Young Leaders to Know

H3 Leadership with Brad Lomenick

Play Episode Listen Later Jan 29, 2025 12:44


It's the January Top Ten Leadership List Episode! Links and recommendations on music, books, podcasts and more. Plus check out the latest edition of the Young Influencers List, with 14 young leaders you should know. Make sure to visit http://h3leadership.com to access the full list and all the show notes. Thanks again to our partners for this episode: - OPEN DOORS - Get the latest FREE 2025 World Watch List and prayer guide at http://opendoorsus.org. Since they were founded by Brother Andrew nearly 70 years ago, Open Doors has become the world's largest on-the-ground network working to strengthen persecuted Christians. 380 million Christians face high levels of persecution for their faith- 1 in 7 worldwide. Download the FREE World Watch List now. Plus the Prayer Guide gives you the World Watch List, real stories of persecuted Christians, profiles of all 50 countries and specific ways to pray for each one. Again, visit http://opendoorsus.org. And GENEROUS COFFEE – visit http://generouscoffee.com. You are going to drink coffee anyways, so why not make it life changing coffee? Generous is a specialty coffee roaster who donates 100% of profits to non-profits focused on fighting human injustice around the world. Whether a church, business, or event looking to order coffee in bulk, or simply ordering for your home visit http://generouscoffee.com and use code H3 for 10% off your entire order. You'll be drinking some of the highest quality craft roasted coffee in the world. Again, visit http://generouscoffee.com and use code H3 for 10% off your entire order.

The WorldView in 5 Minutes
Secretary of State Rubio thanks “my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ,” Senator Hawley to Trump: Pardon the pro-lifers, Iran giving Christians longer prison sentences

The WorldView in 5 Minutes

Play Episode Listen Later Jan 23, 2025 6:14


It's Thursday, January 23rd, A.D. 2025. This is The Worldview in 5 Minutes heard on 125 radio stations and at www.TheWorldview.com. I'm Adam McManus. (Adam@TheWorldview.com) By Jonathan Clark Iran giving Christians longer prison sentences Article 18 reports Iran is sentencing more Christians to longer sentences. The Islamic regime sentenced 96 Christians to a combined 263 years in prison last year. That's up from 22 Christians sentenced to 43.5 years in 2023. Christians are also facing longer individual sentences. Some face up to 15 years all on account of their faith and religious activities. Article 18 said these cases are only the tip of the iceberg, noting that many go unreported. Iran is ranked ninth on the Open Doors' World Watch List of nations where it is most difficult to be a Christian.  Germany's anti-Christian offenses almost doubled Germany's federal government reported there were 228 anti-Christian offenses last year, up from 135 cases in 2022. The offenses included one homicide, 14 bodily injuries, 52 cases of damage to property, 22 cases of threats or coercion, and 29 cases of incitement of the people against Christians.  Trump ends Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion programs In the United States, President Donald Trump issued an order Tuesday, entitled, “Ending Illegal Discrimination and Restoring Merit-based Opportunity.”  The order ends the federal government's hiring practices based on diversity, equity, and inclusion. The administration also instructed agencies to close diversity, equity, and inclusion offices by 5 p.m. yesterday. Staffers of those offices were put on paid administrative leave.  Senator Hawley to Trump: Pardon the pro-lifers Republican Senator Josh Hawley of Missouri called on President Trump to pardon the pro-life advocates imprisoned under the Biden administration. On Tuesday, Hawley posted this on X: “I hope President Trump will shortly pardon the pro-life prisoners unjustly targeted & jailed by the Biden administration. They deserve to be free.” Fox News' Kayleigh McEnany, former White House Press Secretary under Trump, also called for their release.  McENANY: “There are 21 pro-lifers that Biden put in prison, innocent individuals who sang about Jesus Christ in front of an abortion clinic in a hallway, not in the clinic. It was a peaceful protest. We played it on the show. Those individuals should be receiving pardons. “We are a week ahead of the March for Life, and I hope that the Trump administration deeply considers these peaceful Christians in a peaceful protest who were persecuted by President Biden. They should be freed.” Proverbs 17:15 says, “He who justifies the wicked, and he who condemns the just, both of them alike are an abomination to the LORD.” Secretary of State Marco Rubio thanks “my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ” Marco Rubio was sworn in as U.S. Secretary of State on Tuesday. The Senate unanimously confirmed him Monday. Rubio had served 14 years in the chamber before becoming Secretary of State.  Rubio said the State Department would focus on making America stronger, safer, and more prosperous. After being sworn in, he gave thanks to God. RUBIO: “I want to end by thanking Almighty God and my Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. That is truly the singular purpose of our lives. It's the most important priority. It's the only thing that will matter when we take our last breath on this Earth. “But this is an extraordinary opportunity. It would not have been possible without God's blessings. I'm honored, and I'm privileged, cognizant of the responsibility. And I want to thank President Trump for his confidence. “We will work hard every second of the day to help him achieve the agenda the American people have given him to achieve. Thanks for being a part of this today. God bless all of you. Thank you.” Winter storm hit the South A major winter storm hit the South on Tuesday. The storm brought record-breaking snowfall to parts of the Deep South, impacting a 1,500-mile span from the Texas Gulf Coast to Atlantic coast of the Carolinas. Even Florida and Alabama got historic snowfalls.   Psalm 147:16-17 says God “gives snow like wool; He scatters the frost like ashes; He casts out His hail like morsels; who can stand before His cold?” FDA bans red food dye #3 The U.S. Food and Drug Administration banned the use of food dye Red No. 3 last week. The synthetic food dye can cause cancer in laboratory rats.  The dye is still used in thousands of products to give food a bright red color, including candy, cereals, cherries, and milkshakes.  Companies still have a couple years until they must stop using the food dye.  Barna: Americans abandon discipleship and mental issues escalate And finally, Dr. George Barna released a new report on faith and cultural trends likely to emerge this year. The report notes several key trends. First, the syncretism train will keep rolling as people abandon a Biblical worldview for a blend of philosophies. Second, discipleship drops off the radar as the act of biblical mentoring becomes more uncommon in churches. Third, mental health issues escalate as Americans face more fear, anxiety, and depression. And fourth, the family will continue to be a contested and maligned institution.   Dr. Barna noted, “In the end, it's all about worldview. And for those who seek a worldview based on Truth, it's all about pursuing the God of the Bible for the answers and connection we deeply desire.” Close And that's The Worldview on this Thursday, January 23rd, in the year of our Lord 2025. Subscribe by Amazon Music or by iTunes or email to our unique Christian newscast at www.TheWorldview.com. Or get the Generations app through Google Play or The App Store. I'm Adam McManus (Adam@TheWorldview.com). Seize the day for Jesus Christ.

Connections Podcast
From North Korea to Sudan: The 2025 World Watch List sheds light on religious persecution

Connections Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Jan 23, 2025 9:19


Open Doors Canada has released their 2025 World Watch List. The World Watch list ranks the 50 countries in the world where it's most dangerous to live as a Christian. Garry Stagg, executive director of Open Doors Canada shares what they discovered and why it's so important to share this list with CanadiansSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

H3 Leadership with Brad Lomenick
243 | The Story of the Asbury Outpouring with Author of the new book "Lower" Zach Meerkreebs + Top Weekly Leadership Links

H3 Leadership with Brad Lomenick

Play Episode Listen Later Jan 22, 2025 44:20


Our guest is ZACH MEERKREEBS, a pastor and Bible teacher who was the guest speaker in chapel at Asbury University on February 8, 2023 when the Asbury Outpouring began. Zach is the author of the new book Lower: Inspiring Spiritual Awakening through Radical Humility, and has been speaking and sharing the story of what happened at Asbury around the world the last couple of years. Make sure to visit http://h3leadership.com to access the list and all the show notes. Thanks again to our partners for this episode: CONVOY OF HOPE - Please donate to the Hurricane Helene relief effort and ongoing work at http://convoyofhope.org/donate. Convoy is my trusted partner for delivering food and relief by responding to disasters in the US and all around the world. Right now, Convoy of Hope is still responding to devastation in Florida, Georgia, North Carolina and TN because of Hurricane Helene and Milton. Providing basic needs like food, hygiene supplies, medical supplies, blankets, bedding, diapers, clothing and more. All through partnering with local Churches. Join me and please support their incredible work. To donate visit http://convoyofhope.org/donate. And OPEN DOORS - Get the latest FREE 2025 World Watch List and prayer guide at http://opendoorsus.org. Since they were founded by Brother Andrew nearly 70 years ago, Open Doors has become the world's largest on-the-ground network working to strengthen persecuted Christians. 380 million Christians face high levels of persecution for their faith- 1 in 7 worldwide. Download the FREE World Watch List now. Plus the Prayer Guide gives you the World Watch List, real stories of persecuted Christians, profiles of all 50 countries and specific ways to pray for each one. Again, visit http://opendoorsus.org  

The Common Good Podcast
The Most Dangerous Places to be a Christian

The Common Good Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Jan 17, 2025 52:00


Israel and Hamas reach deal on Gaza ceasefire and hostage release Former Presidents Obama, Clinton and Bush won't not attend Trump's inaugural lunch Christianity Today on X: "Where is it most dangerous to be a Christian in 2025? CT reports on the World Watch List released today by @OpenDoorsUS: https://t.co/HGRtNCEMeN" / X Boomers: Serve Like Your Whole Life Is Ahead of YouSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Faith Radio Podcast from The Meeting House
Brown, Ryan - Open Doors US (2025 World Watch List)

Faith Radio Podcast from The Meeting House

Play Episode Listen Later Jan 17, 2025 17:03


Guest: Ryan BrownMinistry: Open Doors USPosition: CEOTopic: a discussion of the 2025 World Watch List and trends that the research shows regarding Christian persecutionWebsite: opendoorsus.org

Faith Radio Podcast from The Meeting House
Brown, Ryan - Open Doors US (2025 World Watch List)

Faith Radio Podcast from The Meeting House

Play Episode Listen Later Jan 17, 2025 17:03


Guest: Ryan BrownMinistry: Open Doors USPosition: CEOTopic: a discussion of the 2025 World Watch List and trends that the research shows regarding Christian persecutionWebsite: opendoorsus.org

The WorldView in 5 Minutes
Vatican's approval of sexual perversion, Rubio: Emphasizing nat’l interest is not isolationism, Top 10 worst countries for persecution of Christians

The WorldView in 5 Minutes

Play Episode Listen Later Jan 16, 2025


It's Thursday, January 16th, A.D. 2025. This is The Worldview in 5 Minutes heard on 125 radio stations and at www.TheWorldview.com.  I'm Adam McManus. (Adam@TheWorldview.com) By Jonathan Clark and Adam McManus Top 10 worst countries for persecution of Christians Open Doors US released their 2025 World Watch List yesterday. The report covers the 50 worst countries for the persecution of Christians. The ten worst countries are North Korea, Somalia, Yemen, Libya, Sudan, Eritrea, Nigeria, Pakistan, Iran, and Afghanistan. Once again, North Korea tops the list for a 23rd year in a row. The report found 380 million Christians face high levels of persecution. That's one in seven believers worldwide. From October 2023 to September 2024, 4,476 Christians were killed for their faith, 4,744 Christians were detained, arrested, or sentenced for their faith, and 209,771 Christians were forced to leave their homes.   Hebrews 13:3 says, “Remember the prisoners as if chained with them—those who are mistreated—since you yourselves are in the body also.” Israel-Hamas ceasefire and hostage exchange Israel and Hamas reportedly agreed to a ceasefire yesterday brokered by America, Egypt, and Qatar.  If successfully completed, the agreement would end 15 months of fighting.  The deal would begin with Hamas releasing 33 hostages in exchange for hundreds of Palestinians imprisoned in Israel. The agreement also involves more humanitarian aid in the Gaza Strip. Both President Joe Biden's administration and President-elect Donald Trump's team cooperated in making the agreement.  Biden removes Cuba from list of state sponsors of terrorism In other international news, President Biden announced that the United States would remove Cuba from its list of state sponsors of terrorism. It's one of Biden's last official acts before Trump takes office next Monday. However, the Trump administration may reverse the decision.  At this moment, Cuba has promised to release 553 prisoners, likely including people imprisoned during anti-government protests in 2021.  The agreement was brokered by the Catholic Church to secure the release of political prisoners.  Vatican's approval of sexual perversion Speaking of the Catholic Church, the Vatican approved a document in favor of sexually perverted lifestyles. The Italian Bishops' Conference published the document last Friday.  The provisions allow candidates for priesthood to have “homosexual tendencies.” However, priests are still required to live in celibacy.  Proverbs 25:26 says, “Like a muddied spring or a polluted fountain is a righteous man who gives way before the wicked.” Biden awarded Pope Francis Presidential Medal of Freedom President Biden awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom with distinction to Pope Francis on Saturday.  It's the highest civilian award of the United States, and it's the first time Biden awarded the medal “with distinction.” The White House praised Pope Francis as being “unlike any who came before.” However, Fox News notes, “Francis, 88, has pushed to open the Church to the modern world since he took the helm in 2013. He has drawn criticism from some U.S. Catholics for his support of … positions that are contrary to Church teachings.” Marco Rubio: Emphasizing “national interest above all else is not isolationism.” Yesterday, Republican Senator Marco Rubio of Florida, whom Trump has nominated to be his Secretary of State, outlined his vision before the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, reports CBS News. RUBIO: “We are once again called to create a free world out of the chaos. And this will not be easy. And it will be impossible without a strong and a confident America that engages in the world, putting our core national interests once again above all else. In Moscow, in Tehran, in Pyongyang, dictators, rogue states now sow chaos and instability and align with and they fund radical terror groups. And then they hide behind their veto power at the United Nations Security Council or the threats of nuclear war. “The post war global order is not just obsolete. It is now a weapon being used against us. Placing our core national interest above all else is not isolationism. It is the common sense realization that a foreign policy centered in our national interest is not some outdated relic.” Ted Cruz asked Trump's Attorney General, Pam Bondi, pick whether she would be fair In addition, Pam Bondi, the former Florida Attorney General, also appeared before the Senate Judiciary Committee   She  vowed to end the weaponization of the Justice Department, saying her focus will be on reducing crime and upholding the law, reports CBS News. Republican Senator Ted Cruz of Texas opened his time this way. CRUZ: “I don't know that there is a more important position in this new administration than the position to which you have been nominated, Attorney General of the United States. Perhaps the most tragic legacy of the Biden-Harris administration has been the politicization and the weaponization of the United States Department of Justice. Joe Biden publicly mused and allowed the New York Times to report it, calling on Merrick Garland: ‘Why will he not prosecute Trump more quickly?'  Merrick Garland, sadly, he sat in that chair and promised to be apolitical, and he broke that promise almost the instant he walked into the Department of Justice. “If you look on the west pediment of the Supreme Court of the United States, just above the entrance, there's a simple, yet profound, four word phrase: ‘Equal justice under law.'  We have seen over the last four years a Department of Justice that systematically targeted the political opponents of Joe Biden and Kamala Harris and that systematically protected his friends and allies. I don't think there's an institution in America who has lost more respect from the American people than the FBI has in the last four years. “So, I want to start with just a very simple question, if you, [Pam Bondi], are confirmed as Attorney General, will you pledge to fairly and faithfully uphold the law regardless of party?” BONDI: “So help me, God!” CRUZ: “Amen. I want to be clear for folks at home, I don't want a Republican Department of Justice. I don't want a Democrat Department of Justice. I want a Department of Justice that follows the law, and I think the American people do too. That shouldn't be too much to expect.” Trump plans to create the External Revenue Service President-elect Donald Trump announced Tuesday that he plans to create a new agency to collect tariffs from foreign sources. He began by criticizing the Internal Revenue Service on Truth Social. He wrote, “For far too long, we have relied on taxing our Great People using the Internal Revenue Service.  … Through soft and pathetically weak Trade agreements, the American Economy has delivered growth and prosperity to the World, while taxing ourselves.”  Trump went on to say, “It is time for that to change. I am today announcing that I will create the EXTERNAL REVENUE SERVICE to collect our Tariffs, Duties, and all Revenue that come from Foreign sources.” 935 languages still need a Bible translation And finally, Wycliffe Global Alliance has published their 2024 Global Scripture Access Report. The report notes that there are 7,396 languages in the world spoken by at least 7.45 billion people. Currently, 756 languages have full Bibles, an increase of 20 languages from 2023. About 10% of all languages now have full Bibles, accounting for 6 billion people.   Additionally, the number of languages needing Bible translation to start is 985, down 283 from 2023. The total number of languages with at least some portion of Scripture has reached 3,756. That's about half of all languages and accounts for 7.3 billion people.  Isaiah 52:7 says, “How beautiful upon the mountains are the feet of him who brings good news, who publishes peace, who brings good news of happiness, who publishes salvation, who says to Zion, ‘Your God reigns.'” Close And that's The Worldview on this Thursday, January 16th, in the year of our Lord 2025. Subscribe by Amazon Music or by iTunes or email to our unique Christian newscast at www.TheWorldview.com. Or get the Generations app through Google Play or The App Store. I'm Adam McManus (Adam@TheWorldview.com). Seize the day for Jesus Christ.

The WorldView in 5 Minutes
Terrorist attack in New Orleans kills 10 and injures 35, Judge blocked Biden's pro-abortion regulations, China builds world's largest hydropower dam

The WorldView in 5 Minutes

Play Episode Listen Later Jan 2, 2025


It's Thursday, January 2nd, A.D. 2025. This is The Worldview in 5 Minutes heard on 125 radio stations and at www.TheWorldview.com.  I'm Adam McManus. (Adam@TheWorldview.com) By Jonathan Clark Muslim militants in Sudan, Africa attacked Christians during a prayer service on Monday, wounding 14 believers. Nearly 200 Christians of the Sudanese Church of Christ were praying and fasting for an end to the military conflict in the Northeast African nation. A local Christian told Morning Star News the believers “have attempted to flee the area several times, but they were prevented by [the militants].” The attackers were part of the Islamist Rapid Support Forces. The paramilitary group has been fighting another Islamist group, the Sudanese Armed Forces, for control of the country since last year. Sudan is ranked 8th on the Open Doors' World Watch List of nations where it is most dangerous to be a Christian. In Matthew 5:44, Jesus said, “Love your enemies. Bless those who curse you. Do good to those who hate you, and pray for those who spitefully use you and persecute you.” China builds world's largest hydropower dam China recently approved construction on what will be the world's largest hydropower dam.  It will be located on the Yarlung Zangbo River in Tibet. Once complete, the massive dam is projected to produce as much as 300 billion kilowatt-hours of electricity per year. That's more than triple the capacity of the Three Gorges Dam, the world's current largest dam also located in China. China is on track to add twice as much solar and wind power production as the rest of the world combined. Terrorist attack in New Orleans kills 10 and injures 35 Tragically in the United States, 10 people died and 35 sustained injuries after an attacker drove a pickup truck into a crowd yesterday morning in New Orleans. The attack took place on Bourbon Street during New Year's celebrations.  The suspect died during a shootout with law enforcement. The vehicle used in the attack had an ISIS flag on the trailer hitch. Officials report the vehicle had crossed the border from Mexico into Texas in November, although the driver at the time does not appear to be the same as the attacker. The attacker has been identified as 42-year-old Shamsud-Din Jabbar, a U.S. citizen who lived in Texas, reports The Epoch Times. The FBI is investigating the incident as an act of terror. U.S. homelessness up 18% Homelessness increased 18% last year, according to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. A report from the department found there were 771,480 homeless people in the U.S. in January 2024. That's up from 653,104 in 2023, and the largest number since 2005. Illegal immigration contributed to these historic numbers as well as natural disasters and the lack of affordable housing. Judge blocked Biden's pro-abortion regulations Last week, a federal judge blocked new pro-abortion regulations from the Joe Biden's Department of Health and Human Services. The new regulations would have silenced health care professionals from reporting abuse related to the harms of abortion as well as transgender drugs and surgeries. Liberty Counsel Founder and Chairman Mat Staver said, “Doctors take an oath to ‘do no harm' and should be able to report abuse to protect patients. … This unlawful rule change is just another political attempt to undermine state laws that protect against harmful abortion and dangerous gender ideology.” S&P 500 grew 23% in 2024 after growing 24% in 2023 The U.S. stock market closed lower on Tuesday to round out 2024. The Dow Jones Industrial Average dropped 5% and the S&P 500 slid 2.5% last month. However, for the year, the S&P 500 grew by 23%, after growing 24% in 2023. Such gains haven't occurred since the late 1990s. Alabama dramatically greenlights school choice Alabama is rolling out a new state program that allows families to pay for private school and homeschooling costs. The CHOOSE Act provides families $7,000 per student in education savings accounts for private school tuition and up to $4,000 for homeschooling expenses.  Alabama passed the act in March 2024. Families can start using the program for the 2025-2026 school year. Belgian woman ran marathon every day of 2024 And finally, a Belgian ultra runner set a record Tuesday, becoming the first woman to run a marathon every day of the year – 366 days to be precise including February 29th in 2024. Hilde Dosogne ran nearly 10,000 miles to complete the record over the course of 2024. The 55-year-old runner also raised the equivalent of over $60,000 for cancer research. Dosogne told The Associated Press, “The mental strain is harder than the physical. Of course, physically, everything has to be okay. Otherwise, you can't run for four hours every day. But it was more mental to be there at the start-line every day.” Dosogne's perseverance reminds us of the encouragement for our spiritual race from Hebrews 12:1-2. It says, “Let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which so easily ensnares us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith. …” Close And that's The Worldview on this Thursday, January 2nd, in the year of our Lord 2025. Subscribe by Amazon Music or by iTunes or email to our unique Christian newscast at www.TheWorldview.com. Or get the Generations app through Google Play or The App Store. I'm Adam McManus (Adam@TheWorldview.com). Seize the day for Jesus Christ.

The WorldView in 5 Minutes
UnitedHealthcare CEO gunned down in NYC, Trump pick for Drug Enforcement Administration withdraws, Philippians 4:6 most popular verse this year

The WorldView in 5 Minutes

Play Episode Listen Later Dec 5, 2024


It's Thursday, December 5th, A.D. 2024. This is The Worldview in 5 Minutes heard on 125 radio stations and at www.TheWorldview.com.  I'm Adam McManus. (Adam@TheWorldview.com) By Jonathan Clark and Adam McManus Muslim terrorist group in Syria puts Christians in grave danger Islamic militias with the Organization for the Liberation of the Levant took over Syria's second largest city of Aleppo last week. It's the latest offensive in the years-long civil war between government forces and armed rebel groups in the country. The tensions mean grave danger for Christians who live in the area. Churches are still open, but militants are removing Christmas decorations.  The Muslim terrorist group is known for brutal governance and violent persecution. Please pray for Christians in Syria, ranked 12th on the Open Doors' World Watch List of nations where it is most difficult to be a Christian.  1 Peter 4:12-13 says, “Beloved, do not think it strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened to you; but rejoice to the extent that you partake of Christ's sufferings, that when His glory is revealed, you may also be glad with exceeding joy.” UnitedHealthcare CEO gunned down in NYC In the United States, chilling video shows the moment a gunman calmly shoots down  UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson, age 50, at close range on the streets of Midtown Manhattan in front of the New York Hilton Hotel on Wednesday morning, reports the New York Post. NYPD Chief of Detectives Joseph Kenny explained what happened before the shooting. KENNY: “The shooter arrived at the location on foot about five minutes prior to the victim's arrival. He stands alongside the building line as numerous other people and pedestrians pass him by. From video, we see at 6:44am the victim is walking alone towards the Hilton after exiting his hotel across the street. We believe the victim was headed to the Hilton Hotel to attend the United Health Group investors conference that was scheduled to start at 8am.” In the video, the unidentified assailant — clad in a black hoodie, black mask, black pants, gloves and wearing a gray backpack — can be seen methodically firing what appears to be a single-action handgun at the CEO, pulling back the slide with each shot. Thompson stumbles back upon the first shot, which appears to hit him in the back, briefly turning to face the shooter before falling to the sidewalk and attempting to crawl away as the gunman continues firing.  New York City Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch added this. TISCH: “At this time, every indication is that this was a premeditated, pre-planned, targeted attack.” While the shooter fled on foot and disappeared into Central Park, emergency personnel administered CPR at the scene to Thompson, before rushing him to Mount Sinai Hospital, where he was pronounced dead. The shooter remains at large. TISCH: “The full investigative efforts of the New York City Police Department are well underway, and we will not rest until we identify and apprehend the shooter in this case.” UnitedHealthcare is the nation's largest health insurer. It is a division of UnitedHealth Group, the fourth-largest public company in America behind Walmart, Amazon, and Apple. Thompson's wife, Paulette, told NBC News that he had been receiving threats perhaps over a lack of health care coverage. Plus, another wrinkle in the story, is that Thompson was one of several senior executives at UnitedHealthcare under investigation by the Department of Justice. On February 16th, he exercised stock options and sold shares worth $15.1 million, less than two weeks before news of the federal antitrust probe went public, according to a Crain's New York Business report from April. Trump pick for Drug Enforcement Administration withdraws On Tuesday, Chad Chronister, President-elect Donald Trump's selection to lead the Drug Enforcement Administration, said that he would withdraw from consideration, reports NBC News. Chronister, who is the sheriff in Hillsborough County, Florida, said he would turn down Trump's planned nomination to be the next DEA administrator just three days after Trump announced it. He is the second of Trump's administration picks to take his name out of the running, after former Republican Congressman Matt Gaetz of Florida dropped his bid to become attorney general last month. Chronister ran into a series of hurdles from Trump's political base because of how he handled the coronavirus pandemic — particularly his decision in 2020 to arrest Tampa Pastor Ronald Howard-Browne for simply holding a church service. Pro-life ruling upholds ban on abortion trafficking A federal appeals court upheld an Idaho law on Monday that bans abortion trafficking, reports the Idaho Capital Sun.  The 2023 law protects pregnant minors from being transported for an abortion without their parents' knowledge. The law is in addition to a 2022 law that bans nearly all abortions.  Linda Thomas, Director of Community Outreach, told LifeNews, “With abortions virtually banned in Idaho, Planned Parenthood and other organizations are actively coaching and luring women across state lines for abortions. This is abortion trafficking.” Transgender case heard at Supreme Court The U.S. Supreme Court heard arguments in a major transgender case yesterday. The Biden administration is challenging a Tennessee law that protects children from drugs and operations meant to enable them to pretend to be the opposite sex. The conservative majority on the court appeared supportive of the law during the hearing.  However, a decision isn't expected for months. The ruling could affect similar measures in 25 other states.  Philippians 4:6 most popular verse this year And finally, the Bible app YouVersion reports that more people engaged with the Bible this year in record numbers. The most popular verse of the year was Philippians 4:6. It says, “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.” Bible engagement grew significantly in Central Africa, Eastern Africa, and Latin America. One of YouVersion's partners in the app is 24-7 Prayer International. Carla Harding noted, “Throughout 2024, we have seen a rise in the number of people dedicating themselves to night and day prayer in different nations around the world. Our hope is that through continual prayer, the global church would be ignited in the presence of God and carry His love with greater compassion and power to the communities around them.” Close And that's The Worldview on this Thursday, December 5th, in the year of our Lord 2024. Subscribe by Amazon Music or by iTunes or email to our unique Christian newscast at www.TheWorldview.com. Or get the Generations app through Google Play or The App Store. I'm Adam McManus (Adam@TheWorldview.com). Seize the day for Jesus Christ.

The WorldView in 5 Minutes
Judge halted sentencing of 7 pro-life activists, China released three detained American citizens, America's history of Thanksgiving

The WorldView in 5 Minutes

Play Episode Listen Later Nov 28, 2024


It's Thanksgiving, Thursday, November 28th, A.D. 2024. This is The Worldview in 5 Minutes heard on 125 radio stations and at www.TheWorldview.com.  I'm Adam McManus. (Adam@TheWorldview.com) By Jonathan Clark 673 incidents of persecution of Christians in India Christians face daily persecution in 23 of India's 28 states. Such persecution includes physical violence, murder, threats, damage to property, and disruption of prayer services.  A.C. Michael with United Christian Forum said, “In 2023, we recorded about 750 incidents, which means two Christians were attacked every day in our country. These are organized acts of violence by pro-Hindu groups targeting Christian faiths.”  The organization's latest report documented 673 incidents of violence and discrimination this year between January and October.  India is ranked 11th on the Open Doors' World Watch List of nations where it is most difficult to be a Christian.  Ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah Israel agreed to a ceasefire with Hezbollah militants in Lebanon that went into effect yesterday. This brings a two-month pause to 14 months of fighting between to the two sides in southern Lebanon. The United States and France brokered the agreement.  The incoming administration of President-elect Donald Trump claimed credit for the deal. Florida Rep. Mike Waltz is Trump's pick for national security adviser. He posted on X, “Everyone is coming to the table because of President Trump. His resounding victory sent a clear message to the rest of the world that chaos won't be tolerated. I'm glad to see concrete steps towards de-escalation in the Middle East.”  China released three detained American citizens Speaking of coming to the table, China released three American citizens it had detained for years. The White House announced the prisoner swap yesterday. The three Americans are Mark Swidan, Kai Li, and John Leung. The United States had designated them as wrongfully detained. This comes just months after China released David Lin, a Christian pastor from California, who was detained for 20 years in China.  Judged halted sentencing of 7 pro-life activists Last Tuesday, a federal judge in Michigan halted the sentencing of seven pro-life activists.  The pro-lifers were convicted under the Freedom of Access to Clinic Entrances Act. Some faced over 10 years in prison for protesting at abortion mills. Judge Matthew Leitman delayed proceedings until after Donald Trump takes office.  Trump has already promised to review the cases of those “unjustly victimized by the Biden regime” and get them “back to their families where they belong.” Supreme Court takes up Tennessee transgender case The U.S. Supreme Court will hear arguments in a major transgender case next Wednesday. The case involves a Tennessee law that protects children from transgender drugs and procedures intended to enable children to pretend to be the opposite sex.  Tennessee House of Representatives Majority Leader William Lamberth co-sponsored the measure. He told Reuters, “This case is about protecting vulnerable young people who are experiencing gender dysphoria or other mental health crises from making the biggest mistake of their lives.”  You can sign a prayer commitment for the case through Alliance Defending Freedom which is linked in today's transcript at TheWorldview.com.  U.S. economy grew 2.8% The U.S. economy grew by 2.8% on an annual basis during the third quarter of this year. The Gross Domestic Product is slightly down from 3% during the second quarter. However, the U.S. has seen growth of over 2% for eight out of the last nine quarters. Consumer spending, along with an increase in exports, contributed the latest economic growth. America's history of Thanksgiving The first official National Proclamation of Thanksgiving in America was issued by the Continental Congress on November 1, 1777, in celebration of the victory against the British at the Battle of Saratoga. In 1941, as America confronted a world at war, Congress voted to establish Thanksgiving as a national holiday. In his first Thanksgiving proclamation, President Ronald Reagan wrote: “America has much for which to be thankful. The unequaled freedom enjoyed by our citizens has provided a harvest of plenty to this Nation throughout its history. In keeping with America's heritage, one day each year is set aside for giving thanks to God for all of His blessings. … “Searching our hearts, we should ask what we can do as individuals to demonstrate our gratitude to God for all He has done. Such reflection can only add to the significance of this precious day of remembrance. “Let us recommit ourselves to that devotion to God and family that has played such an important role in making this a great Nation, and which will be needed as a source of strength if we are to remain a great people.” Most popular Thanksgiving verses And finally, Lifeway Research shared the most popular Bible verses during Thanksgiving based on analysis from YouVersion's Bible app. Verses from the Psalms were among the most popular verses in recent years. Lifeway shared 11 verses that appeared on the list of most popular verses at Thanksgiving at least twice during the last five years. Here are the top three: Numbers 6:24-26 says, “May the Lord bless you and protect you; may the Lord make His face shine on you and be gracious to you; may the Lord look with favor on you and give you peace.” 1 Chronicles 16:34 says, “Give thanks to the Lord, for He is good; His faithful love endures forever.” Psalm 100:4-5 says, “Enter His gates with thanksgiving and His courts with praise. Give thanks to Him and bless His name. For the Lord is good, and His faithful love endures forever; His faithfulness, through all generations.” Close And that's The Worldview on this Thanksgiving, Thursday, November 28th, in the year of our Lord 2024. Subscribe by Amazon Music or by iTunes or email to our unique Christian newscast at www.TheWorldview.com. Or get the Generations app through Google Play or The App Store. I'm Adam McManus (Adam@TheWorldview.com). Seize the day for Jesus Christ.

The WorldView in 5 Minutes
Muslims slit throats of Christians in Mozambique; Trump threatens tariffs on Canada, Mexico, & China over illegals & drugs; World's oldest man died

The WorldView in 5 Minutes

Play Episode Listen Later Nov 27, 2024


It's Wednesday, November 27th, A.D. 2024. This is The Worldview in 5 Minutes heard on 125 radio stations and at www.TheWorldview.com.  I'm Adam McManus. (Adam@TheWorldview.com) By Jonathan Clark Muslims slit throats of Christians in Mozambique, Africa Barnabas Aid reports that fighters from the terrorist group called “ISIS Mozambique” killed four Christians in northern Mozambique this month. In one incident, Muslim militants slit the throats of Christians they described as “infidel Christians.” They killed another Christian in a machine gun attack.  Militants began an insurgency in the southern African country in 2017, killing thousands of people since then.  Mozambique is ranked 39th on the Open Doors' World Watch List of nations where it most dangerous to be a Christian.  Christians oppose Britain's End-of-Life Bill Christian leaders sent a letter to the United Kingdom parliament, opposing a proposed End of Life Bill. The measure would allow terminally ill adults to seek assistance in ending their own lives. The bill moves forward with a second reading on Friday. The recent letter warned, “This bill, in our view, undermines the value of life and lacks the safeguards needed to protect those most at risk from being coerced into premature death.” Trump threatens tariffs on Canada, Mexico, & China until illegals & drugs stop In the United States, President-elect Donald Trump announced his plans for tariffs on Monday.  The plan affects America's primary trading partners—Canada, Mexico, and China. At the start of his second term, Trump said Canada and Mexico will face a 25% tariff until they curb the flow of migrants and drugs across the border. Trump also announced a 10% tariff on Chinese goods, in addition to any other tariffs on the country, until it deals with fentanyl smuggling.  Trump picks Scott Turner for Sec. Housing and Urban Development Last Friday, President-elect Trump nominated Scott Turner to lead the Department of Housing and Urban Development. Turner played football in the NFL before serving in the Texas House of Representatives. He worked in the first Trump administration, and is an associate pastor at Prestonwood Baptist Church in Plano, Texas.  Turner responded to the nomination on X. He wrote, “Thank you, Mr. President. I am thrilled to continue the outstanding work we began in your last administration at HUD with an incredible team. … I would also like to express the sincerest of gratitude to my mentor, Secretary Ben Carson. … We have an important mission ahead. To God be the glory. Let's get to work!” Target fired Christian who wrote “Trust in Jesus” on Target nametag KVLY-TV reports that Target has apologized for firing an employee over Christian messaging on her name tag.  Denise Kendrick worked for a Target store in Fargo, North Dakota. She said she was fired earlier this month for writing “trust in Jesus” on her Target nametag. A manager told her that she couldn't wear the nametag. Kendrick replied, “Well, I've seen people with rainbows on theirs. I'm going to continue to wear this nametag,”  And then they said, “Well, you can't work here anymore.” After the incident, a Target spokesman said, “Upon learning of the situation, we conducted a review and determined that the team member should not have been terminated. We apologized to her and offered to reinstate her immediately.” In Matthew 10:32, Jesus said, “So everyone who acknowledges Me before men, I also will acknowledge before My Father who is in Heaven.” Walmart rolls back Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion policies On Monday, Walmart announced it is rolling back its diversity, equity, and inclusion policies.  It's the latest large company to do so. The world's largest retailer will no longer participate in the Human Rights Campaign, the largest lobbying group for sexually perverted lifestyles in the U.S.  Robby Starbuck is a conservative activist who has been calling out companies for their diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives. After talking with Walmart, he wrote on X, “This is the biggest win yet for our movement to end wokeness in corporate America.” World's oldest man died And finally, the world's oldest man died in England on Monday. He was 112 years old. John Alfred Tinniswood was born on August 26, 1912, just months after the Titanic sank. He lived through both world wars and served in the British Army Pay Corps during World War II.  Tinniswood's family said he was active in retirement. He volunteered as an elder in this local church where he gave sermons. He said moderation was important to a healthy life.  Tinniswood is survived by his daughter, Susan, four grandchildren, and three great-grandchildren. Proverbs 3:1-3 says, “My son, do not forget My law, but let your heart keep My commands; for length of days and long life and peace they will add to you. Let not mercy and truth forsake you; bind them around your neck, write them on the tablet of your heart.” Close And that's The Worldview on this Wednesday, November 27th, in the year of our Lord 2024. Subscribe by Amazon Music or by iTunes or email to our unique Christian newscast at www.TheWorldview.com. Or get the Generations app through Google Play or The App Store. I'm Adam McManus (Adam@TheWorldview.com). Seize the day for Jesus Christ.

The WorldView in 5 Minutes
Trump picks Matt Gaetz as Attorney General, Blue Cross to pay $12 million for firing over COVID shot, Slovakia's March for Life draws 40,000

The WorldView in 5 Minutes

Play Episode Listen Later Nov 14, 2024


It's Thursday, November 14th, A.D. 2024. This is The Worldview in 5 Minutes heard on 125 radio stations and at www.TheWorldview.com.  I'm Adam McManus. (Adam@TheWorldview.com) By Jonathan Clark Myanmar's persecution of Christians The military regime of Myanmar continues its persecution of Christians. Authorities imposed new restrictions in the capital of Rakhine State. Churches cannot display crosses. They must also submit membership lists to police and get authorization to hold services. One local Christian told the Myanmar Pressphoto Agency, “Last month, we installed a cross, a symbol of our faith, as a way to identify the Christian church here, but the police came and demanded it be removed. We prayed before putting it up, so we refused to take it down ourselves, and instead asked them to do it on their own.”  The southeast Asian nation is ranked 17th on the Open Doors' World Watch List of countries where it most difficult to be a Christian.  Slovakia's March for Life draws 40,000 This past September, nearly 40,000 people participated in the fourth March for Life in Slovakia, reports LifeSiteNews. The slogan of the march in the Eastern European nation was “Love is pro-life.”  Jozef Miklosko, the country's Commissioner for Children, addressed the crowd, saying it's his job to stand up for children, born or unborn. Abortion is currently legal up to 12 weeks of pregnancy. However, the abortion kill pill is not legal. Slovakia also voted to reject a resolution by the European Parliament to make abortion a so-called right.  Trump nominates Elon Musk & Vivek Ramaswamy to lead Dept. of Government Efficiency In the United States, President-elect Donald Trump announced tech billionaire Elon Musk and conservative entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy will lead a new Department of Government Efficiency.  Trump said in a statement, “Together, these two wonderful Americans will pave the way for my administration to dismantle government bureaucracy, slash excess regulations, cut wasteful expenditures, and restructure federal agencies.”  Musk said the department's actions “will be posted online for maximum transparency. We will also have a leaderboard for [the] most insanely dumb spending of your tax dollars. This will be both extremely tragic and extremely entertaining.” In 1 Timothy 2:1-2, the Apostle Paul wrote, “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.” Trump picks Matt Gaetz as Attorney General Trump also tapped Republican Congressman Matt Gaetz of Florida to be his Attorney General, reports CBS News.  Trump praised him as a "tenacious attorney" who will "end weaponized government, protect our borders, dismantle criminal organizations and restore Americans' badly shattered faith and confidence in the Justice Department." Gaetz immediately resigned from Congress. Trump picked Fox News host & veteran Pete Hegseth as Defense Secretary President-elect Trump also surprised many by picking Pete Hegseth as his Secretary of Defense, reports Fox News. Trump wrote, “Pete has spent his entire life as a warrior for the troops, and for the country. Pete is tough, smart, and a true believer in America First."  Hegseth, age 44, an Army National Guard veteran who served tours in Iraq, Afghanistan, and Guantanamo Bay, has hosted the FOX Nation "Patriot Awards" since 2019, which is the network's version of a Hollywood awards show honoring heroes like first responders.  Take a look at the winners of the 2023 Patriot Awards through a special link in our transcript today at www.TheWorldview.com. Court: Blue Cross to pay $12 million for firing over COVID shot A former employee of Blue Cross Blue Shield won a $12 million settlement last Friday in a religious liberty case. Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan fired Lisa Domski in 2021 after she sought a religious exemption for the COVID-19 shot. The insurance company denied her request, calling into question her objections as a Catholic.  Her attorney, Jon Marko, said, “Lisa refused to renounce her faith and beliefs and was wrongfully terminated from the only job she had ever known. The jury's verdict today tells [Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan] that religious discrimination has no place in America and affirms each person's right to religious freedom.” Judge blocks Ten Commandments at schools On Tuesday, a federal judge temporarily blocked a Louisiana law that requires public schools to display the Ten Commandments in classrooms. U.S. District Judge John deGravelles ruled the law is “unconstitutional on its face.”  Louisiana's Attorney General Liz Murrill said she would appeal to the 5th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals. She said, “This law, I believe, is constitutional . . . you don't have to like the posters. The point is you can make posters that comply with the Constitution.” In Deuteronomy 6:6-9, God said, “And these words which I command you today shall be in your heart. You shall teach them diligently to your children … You shall write them on the doorposts of your house and on your gates.” Trump won 56% of the Christian vote And finally, Dr. George Barna released a report on the Christian vote in this year's presidential election. The report found self-identified Christians made up 72% of the voters who turned out, and Trump won 56% of the Christian vote. Meanwhile, Vice President Kamala Harris won 60% of the non-Christian vote. The study noted, “not only did most of President Trump's votes come from Christians, but they gave him a 17-million-vote cushion over Mrs. Harris, which proved to be an insurmountable lead. The incumbent Vice President fared much better among people associated with non-Christian faiths and with no religious faith, but those segments represented too small a slice of the voting population to make her bid for the White House viable.” Close And that's The Worldview on this Thursday, November 14th, in the year of our Lord 2024. Subscribe by Amazon Music or by iTunes or email to our unique Christian newscast at www.TheWorldview.com. Or get the Generations app through Google Play or The App Store. I'm Adam McManus (Adam@TheWorldview.com). And now, here to close the newscast, is my daughter, Mercy Geneva, who is turning 13 today. Seize the day for Jesus Christ.

The WorldView in 5 Minutes
Future mothers stockpile Abortion Kill Pills; Trump selects Tom Homan to run border & Huckabee as ambassador to Israel; Augustine of Hippo: The prodigal son who repented

The WorldView in 5 Minutes

Play Episode Listen Later Nov 13, 2024


It's Wednesday, November 13th, A.D. 2024. This is The Worldview in 5 Minutes heard on 125 radio stations and at www.TheWorldview.com.  I'm Adam McManus. (Adam@TheWorldview.com) By Jonathan Clark Iranian prison releases pastor for hosting worship in his home Praise God! Officials in Iran released an Armenian-Iranian pastor from prison, according to International Christian Concern. Authorities imprisoned Pastor Anooshavan Avedian in September 2023 for having worship services in his house. They charged him with “establishing and leading an illegal group with the aim of disrupting the security of the country through educational and propaganda activities contrary to, and disturbing the holy religion of Islam, through the dissemination of false claims.” Pastor Avedian faced 10 years in prison for his ministry. However, officials released him only a year into his sentence after public outcry.  Iran is ranked ninth on the Open Doors' World Watch List of nations where it is most difficult to be a Christian.  Secular society: “Blasphemous” to claim gender change is impossible The Evangelical Alliance of Northern Ireland took a closer look at the craziness of gender ideology recently, reports The Christian Post. David Smyth with the Christian group warned the region's Education Committee, “I do think we need to be careful not to create new secular blasphemies. Is it secular blasphemy to believe that a man cannot biologically become a woman?” In light of the woke ideology that pervades all government-run schools, anyone who rejects biologically inaccurate pronouns or names is treated as a societal scoundrel. Plus, such a politically correct worldview leads to both the marginalization of the Christian worldview as well as the use of age-inappropriate material. Ireland's bold March for Jesus that condemned abortion Meanwhile in Ireland, Christians held the first-ever “March for Jesus” in Dublin last month, reports Christian Daily International. The event celebrated the Christian heritage of the peoples of Ireland going back to missionary St. Patrick in the fifth century. Participants sang and prayed, holding signs that read, “March for Jesus,” “Jesus is the Way,” and “Jesus is King.” Pastor John Ahern of All Nations Church spoke the truth and prayed a powerful prayer. AHERN: “God will not bless the shedding of innocent blood. God will not bless euthanasia. God will not bless the sexualization of children. God will not bless the erasure of women. And God will not bless churches that are so cowardly they refuse to call evil exactly what it is. “And so, Father, we stand in the gap for this nation. We pray blessing over Ireland. We pray blessing over Northern Ireland, over Great Britain, Lord God, over Europe, and over the nations. And we pray, Lord God, in the name of Jesus, that as we come to the darkest time of the year, that we want to lift You up as the light of the world. “And we pray that the Irish people are going to come back to You, to faith in You, to honoring You, to worshipping You, to declaring that You are Lord.” Revelation 11:15 says, “The kingdoms of this world are become the kingdoms of our Lord, and of his Christ; and He shall reign for ever and ever.” Christian counselor wants freedom to help people trapped in homosexuality Alliance Defending Freedom is asking the U.S. Supreme Court to protect the free speech of a Christian counselor in Colorado. Kaley Chiles is challenging a Colorado law that censors her from talking with clients about sexuality according to her faith. Cody Barnett, legal counsel with Alliance Defending Freedom, said, “We are urging the Supreme Court to hear Kaley's case . . . and stop Colorado officials from banning someone's speech simply because they disagree with her beliefs. All Americans should be allowed to speak freely and seek the best possible help they desire.” Trump selects Tom Homan to run border, Huckabee as ambassador to Israel On Monday, President-elect Donald Trump announced that Tom Homan will be in charge of the U.S. border. Homan is the acting director of U.S. immigration and Customs Enforcement. He is known for a policy of zero-tolerance for illegal immigration, promising to “run the biggest deportation operation this country's ever seen.” Also on Monday, Trump announced Lee Zeldin will lead the Environmental Protection Agency. Zeldin previously served as a Republican in the U.S. House of Representatives for New York. His goal is to deregulate the business sector, encourage U.S. energy production, and bring back jobs from oversees. Former Arkansas Governor Mike Huckabee,  an ordained Baptist minister and TV host, is the choice to be the next U.S. ambassador to Israel in the incoming Trump administration, reports Fox News. Trump has promised to strengthen U.S. ties with Israel as it fights wars against Iran-backed terrorist groups Hamas and Hezbollah.  Future mothers stockpile Abortion Kill Pills Demand for abortion drugs surged following the election of Donald Trump. Aid Access facilitates mail-order Abortion Kill Pills. It reported a 16-fold increase in requests. Other groups that provide contraceptives also reported huge increases in demand. Isaiah 59:7 says, “Their feet run to evil, and they make haste to shed innocent blood.” Augustine of Hippo: The prodigal son who repented And finally, this week marks the birth of Augustine of Hippo.  The renowned Christian theologian was born on November 13, A.D. 354 in what is modern-day Algeria, Africa. Augustine's early life was marred by prodigal living. His mother faithfully prayed for him for years before his eventual conversion in his 30s. This took place after he providentially came across Romans 13:13-14, which says, “Let us walk properly as in the daytime, not in … drunkenness … and sensuality. … But put on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make no provision for the flesh, to gratify its desires.” Augustine would go on to become Bishop of Hippo, a Roman province in North Africa. An able scholar, he turned his mind to the theological battles of his day, producing Christian classics like Confessions and The City of God.  Augustine's life and work would have a dominating influence on Western civilization. The Protestant Reformers, in particular, would quote him extensively in their efforts to reform the church over a thousand years later. Close And that's The Worldview on this Wednesday, November 13th, in the year of our Lord 2024. Subscribe by Amazon Music or by iTunes or email to our unique Christian newscast at www.TheWorldview.com. Or get the Generations app through Google Play or The App Store. I'm Adam McManus (Adam@TheWorldview.com). Seize the day for Jesus Christ.

The WorldView in 5 Minutes
China & North Korea partner to persecute Christians; 60 Minutes asks Kamala about inflation, unfair nomination, & flip flops; Texas couple erects cross in yard, invites people to pray

The WorldView in 5 Minutes

Play Episode Listen Later Oct 11, 2024


It's Friday, October 11th, A.D. 2024. This is The Worldview in 5 Minutes heard on 125 radio stations and at www.TheWorldview.com.  I'm Adam McManus. (Adam@TheWorldview.com) By Adam McManus China and North Korea partner to persecute Christians China has subjected hundreds of North Koreans to atrocities since last year by forcibly returning them to a country whose leaders hold that religion, especially Christianity, is the greatest threat to its power, experts said at a recent U.S. hearing, reports Morning Star News. Investigations have shown that torture, sexual violence, enslavement, and murder await those repatriated from China to detention centers in North Korea led by its Supreme Leader Kim Jong Un. At the hearing of the U.S. Commission on International Religious Freedom on September 26, Greg Scarlatoiu, executive director of the non-governmental Committee for Human Rights in North Korea, said, “Any religious belief, and Christianity in particular, as well as South Korea, constitute the only challenges to the Kim regime's absolute monopoly on power. Christianity offers an alternative way of life that delegitimizes tyranny and transcends oppression.” Hanna Song, executive director of the Database Center for North Korean Human Rights, explained that when North Koreans are forcibly repatriated from China back to their home country, one of the first questions they will be asked by authorities is whether they have met with a missionary during their time in China. “The answer determines the severity of punishment they will endure. If an individual admits to or is found to have had contact with a missionary, particularly one affiliated with Christianity, they're often subject to the harshest forms of torture and imprisonment.” Joanna Hosaniak, with Citizens' Alliance for North Korean Human Rights, explained that refugees have revealed that China was using facial recognition technology to track down North Korean migrants in China. And Chinese officials rewarded those who report people aiding them. Chinese authorities share North Korea's desire to punish those of religious belief. She said, “The goal is religious persecution,” adding that Chinese companies cooperate in this task in a way that is tantamount to human trafficking. There is evidence that some Chinese companies are linked with North Korean companies. According to the Open Doors 2024 World Watch List, North Korea is the most dangerous country worldwide in which to be a Christian. Amos 5:24 says, “But let justice roll down like waters, and righteousness like an ever-flowing stream.” 60 Minutes asks Kamala about inflation, unfair nomination, & flip flops Appearing on a special Election Edition of “60 Minutes”, Kamala Harris talked with Bill Whitaker this past Monday night on CBS. WHITAKER: “Groceries are 25% higher, and people are blaming you and Joe Biden for that. Are they wrong?” HARRIS: “To your point, prices are still too high, and I know that, and we need to deal with it, which is why part of my plan, you mentioned groceries, part of my plan is what we must do to bring down the price of groceries.” Not surprisingly, Harris never shared her plan to bring down grocery prices.  So Bill Whitaker said this. WHITAKER: “Harris says she will press Congress to pass a federal ban on price gouging for food and groceries, but details are yet to be defined.” He asked the Vice President about whether the process of her becoming the nominee was fair. WHITAKER: “Was democracy best served by President Biden stepping down and basically handing you a nomination. You didn't have to go through a primary process. You didn't have to fight off other contenders. That's not really the way our system was intended to work.” HARRIS: “I am proud to have received the endorsement of leaders around this country from every background and walk of life to fight in this election over the next month for our democracy.” WHITAKER: “But I think this truncated process is why people think or say they don't really know who you are.” HARRIS: “Look, I've been in this race for 70 days.” But she's been Vice President for almost four years! In light of her flip flops on multiple issues, Whitaker noted that many Americans don't know who the real Kamala Harris is. WHITAKER: “The reason so many voters don't know you is that you have changed your position on so many things. You were against fracking. Now you're for it. You supported looser immigration policies. Now you're tightening them up. You're for Medicare for all. Now you're not. So many that people don't truly know what you believe or what you stand for, and I know you've heard that.” HARRIS: “In the last four years, I have been Vice President of the United States, and I have been traveling our country, and I have been listening to folks and seeking what is possible in terms of common ground. I believe in building consensus.” Jesse Watters, a Fox News talk show host, had a pithy response to that Kamala comment, WATTERS: “Kamala hasn't been seeking common ground. She's been seeking common sense. All of these positions she's just adopted are common sense, conservative positions. “She didn't build consensus. She's just agreeing with the rest of the country now to get elected.” Tampa Bay area battered, bruised by Hurricane Milton, but still standing In the late hours of Wednesday night, Hurricane Milton battered and bruised Tampa Bay, Florida with sustained winds of more than 100 mph.  God's power shredded Tropicana Field's roof, uprooted grown trees, snapped power lines and toppled a massive crane into the headquarters of the Tampa Bay Times in downtown St. Petersburg, reports The Miami Herald.  So far, four people have died. In fact, the storm dumped lots of rain — around 17 inches in parts of Pinellas and Hillsborough counties in just six hours — forcing the National Weather Service to declare a rare flash flood emergency. But as Tampa Bay awoke Thursday, it appeared the storm didn't measure up to the dire warnings that had been issued by local and state officials. Along Beach Drive in downtown St. Petersburg, winds had twisted signs and left branches in the road, but many of the businesses seemed largely unscathed. Texas couple erects cross in yard, invites people to pray And finally, ever since Bernie and Dee Ann Tackitt of Lubbock, Texas got baptized several years ago, God has motivated them to reach out to the world with prayer, reports KCBD-TV. In fact, Dee Ann has the habit of praying with strangers in stores and on the streets. BERNIE: “She has a habit of finding people who need prayers. I mean, we could be in Big Lots or anywhere, and I'm looking, ‘Where's my wife?' She's praying with somebody. We'll be out in parking lot praying with somebody.” On his birthday last year, Bernie added a large cross to the front yard. BERNIE:  “At this point in humanity, we need to pick a team. And I want everybody to know, ‘I'm with Team Jesus.' Well, I thought I'm going to make a cross.“ They invite people to write their prayer request on a Post-It note and stick it to the cross. The couple will pray for those specific prayer requests In fact, they have also set up their Bible bench, where people can sit, pray, and read the Bible.  Plus, there are free Bibles available for anyone to take. DEE ANN: “If you need to just sit down, have some quiet time with the Lord, come sit on my bench, talk to the Lord. Put that prayer on that cross. And you know what? Your prayer will be covered every day. If you need somebody to pray with you, please knock on the door.” And because they believe so strongly in the power of baptism, they have also made their pool available for baptisms. DEE ANN: “We have dedicated our home as the house of prayer for the nations.” Ephesians 6:18 says, “And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the Lord's people.” So, if you live in the Lubbock, Texas area, or perhaps you're just passing through, the Tackitts invite you to drop by for prayer at their home located at 3302 93rd Street. Or send your prayer request by mail. Send it to Bernie and Dee Ann Tackitt, 3302 93rd Street, Lubbock, TX 79423. Close And that's The Worldview on this Friday, October 11th, in the year of our Lord 2024. Subscribe by Amazon Music or by iTunes or email to our unique Christian newscast at www.TheWorldview.com. Or get the Generations app through Google Play or The App Store. I'm Adam McManus (Adam@TheWorldview.com). Seize the day for Jesus Christ.

The WorldView in 5 Minutes
Good Samaritan saves trucker from fire, Trump thanks God for sparing his life twice, Pakistani Christian mother sentenced to death

The WorldView in 5 Minutes

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 20, 2024 7:59


It's Friday, September 20th, A.D. 2024. This is The Worldview in 5 Minutes heard on 125 radio stations and at www.TheWorldview.com. I'm Adam McManus. (Adam@TheWorldview.com) By Adam McManus Pakistani Christian mother sentenced to death On Wednesday, a Pakistani Christian mother of four children received the death sentence after a judge convicted her under Pakistan's blasphemy laws, reports Morning Star News. Shagufta Kiran, age 40, was convicted under Section 295-C of Pakistan's widely condemned blasphemy laws for insulting Muhammad, the false prophet of Islam, which carries a mandatory death sentence. She was arrested in Islamabad by the Federal Investigation Agency on July 29, 2021, for allegedly sharing blasphemous content in a WhatsApp group in September 2020. Her husband and two sons were also taken into custody during the raid but were later released. Attorney Rana Hameed said, “The complaint against Kiran was registered by a Muslim named Shiraz Farooqi, who alleged that she had shared content disrespectful of Islam's prophet. However, Kiran has maintained that she has not authored the content and had forwarded it in the WhatsApp group without reading it.” Formerly a nurse, Kiran had joined several interfaith WhatsApp groups, where she proclaimed the Gospel of Jesus Christ and defended her Christian faith. One such group, Pure Discussions, was administered by the complainant, Shiraz Farooqi. While the mother is hopeful of a positive outcome from the superior courts, she misses her family terribly. The verdict did not come as a surprise, as 99 percent of those charged under Section 295-C are convicted by trial courts under pressure from Islamists. According to the Center for Social Justice, nearly 3,000 people have been accused of blasphemy in Pakistan since 1987. Specifically, in the Punjab Province alone, 552 Christians are currently detained in prisons. Pakistan ranks seventh on the Open Doors 2024 World Watch List of the most difficult places to be a Christian. Trump objects to Kamala's lies and thanks God for sparing his life twice On the presidential campaign trail, Donald Trump spoke on Wednesday at a rally on Long Island in Uniondale, New York. He took issue with the dishonest claims by Kamala Harris and the liberal media, reports RealClearPolitics.com. TRUMP: “It's time to stop the lies, stop the hoaxes, stop the smears, stop the lawfare of the fake lawsuits against me, and stop claiming your opponents will turn America into a dictatorship. Give me a break, because the fact is that I'm not a threat to democracy, they are. “They're doing things in politics that have never been done before in the history of our country. And worst of all, with their open borders and bad elections, they have made us into a Third World nation, something which nobody thought was even possible. Americans deserve a campaign based on the issues. We try and keep it on the issues.” And, Trump also expressed gratitude to God for sparing his life twice from recent assassination attempts. TRUMP: “God has now spared my life — It must have been. God, thank you. Not once, but twice. There are those that say He did it because Trump is going to turn this state around. He's going to turn this country around. He's going to make America great again.” Pro-abortion Republican Congressional candidate: A gutless wonder Republican Matt Gunderson is hoping to unseat incumbent Democrat Rep. Mike Levin of California's 49th congressional district. But his strategy is raising eyebrows by campaigning on a promise to keep abortion “safe, legal, and rare,” apparently hoping that his pro-abortion view will help him prevail in America's most liberal state, reports LifeSiteNews.com. Listen. GUNDERSON: “On a woman's right to choose, I'm pro-choice. I believe abortion should be safe, legal and rare. I don't want politicians dictating health care for my daughters. You might disagree, and that's okay. “But I bet there's more that unites us, like lowering housing, grocery, and gas prices, securing the border, and protecting Social Security. We can end the overheated political rhetoric and focus on fixing a broken Washington. I'm Matt Gunderson, and I approved this message.” Since the U.S. Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade in 2022, shifting public opinion and a wave of 10 pro-abortion ballot initiatives have led some in the Republican Party to conclude they must moderate the party's longstanding pro-life stance. Pro-life activists such as Lila Rose, founder of LiveAction, have forcefully challenged that conclusion, but because Trump has vocally sided with the moderation camp throughout his current campaign, other GOP candidates have been given cover to compromise as well. Psalm 119:1-3 says, “Joyful are people of integrity, who follow the instructions of the LORD. Joyful are those who obey His laws and search for Him with all their hearts. They do not compromise with evil, and they walk only in His paths." Good Samaritan saves trucker from fire And finally, a Virginia man is being hailed a hero after he saw a fire blazing under a tractor-trailer — and immediately took action, reports FaithWire.com. Akeem Dixon was on his way to a job interview this week in Norfolk, Virginia, when he noticed the blaze. DIXON: “I was in a tunnel. Beside me, I see a tractor trailer. And I see under the tractor trailer, I see a fire under the truck.” Recognizing the need to move quickly, he started honking to get the driver's attention, but to no avail. That's when Dixon decided to pull his car in front of the tractor-trailer, according to WVEC-TV. DIXON: “[As] soon as we get inside the tunnel, I just drive right in front of him, put my forward flashers on, and I slowed right down to a complete stop. Then he stopped behind me. So, when I got out of my car, I rushed straight to the truck. And I was, like, ‘Yo, there's a fire underneath your truck!” The driver got out of the truck and Dixon told him to get a fire extinguisher. But it quickly became evident time was running out. Due to the flames, the engine was going to explode at any moment. DIXON: “I tell him to leave the truck, because it's going to blow any minute. Just leave it and come to my car. Let's move to my car, far away from the truck. As soon as we move from the truck and close to my car, at the same time, we hear a boom.” Thankfully, Dixon and the driver remained safe — all thanks to his selfless actions. John 15:13 says, “Greater love has no one than this, to lay down his life for his friends.” Or, in the case of Akeem Dixon, for a stranger! Close And that's The Worldview on this Friday, September 20th, in the year of our Lord 2024. Subscribe by Amazon Music or by iTunes or email to our unique Christian newscast at www.TheWorldview.com. Or get the Generations app through Google Play or The App Store. I'm Adam McManus (Adam@TheWorldview.com). Seize the day for Jesus Christ.