Rob Pacienza - Rooted and Grounded in God's Word

March 17, 2025 | S25:E11

Truths That Transform presented by Coral Ridge Ministries featuring Dr. Robert J. Pacienza, with sermon commentary from Dr. D. James Kennedy and Dr. Pacienza. Each program provides a compelling analysis of current moral and cultural controversies all from a biblical perspective.

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Truths That Transform | Rob Pacienza - Rooted and Grounded in God's Word | March 17, 2025
  • Is america really beginning to change?
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  • For true change,
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  • There needs to be a shift in our attitudes and our worldviews.
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  • But there are signs that may be happening.
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  • Find out more,
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  • On today's truths that transform.
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  • Welcome to truths that transform,
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  • A production of coral ridge ministries, where we are
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  • I'm pastor rob pacienza.
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  • There have been some sweeping changes
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  • In our nation in recent days,
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  • And a resurgence of hope that
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  • We are returning to some semblance of sanity.
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  • Millions have craved such a change because we have been
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  • Without a foundation for far too long.
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  • Chaos has grown as too many make up reality for themselves.
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  • On today's program,
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  • We'll investigate the ultimate and
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  • Only sure foundation for the nation,
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  • And for your life.
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  • The secular world says there's no real foundation.
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  • But growing numbers of people are finding
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  • That this philosophy rings false,
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  • And leads to emptiness.
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  • Instead, they are turning to the more
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  • Solid foundation of god's word.
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  • My good friend, and regular truths that transform
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  • Contributor stephen mansfield, sat down with me
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  • To discuss these recent positive developments.
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  • This month we're looking at the firm foundation of god's word.
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  • Are you seeing resurgence
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  • In interest in the bible in america?
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  • It's really fascinating what's taking place.
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  • The bible is at an all-time high in terms of sales.
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  • Biblically themed film and art is increasing dramatically,
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  • And i think in our culture
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  • We're seeing weariness with postmodernism,
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  • Which is that you have your truth and i have mine.
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  • That never works, that wears out, that exhausts people
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  • And biblical truth is really rising.
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  • Now, we have to be careful to teach it well
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  • And to teach it in a fully biblical way,
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  • But a fascination with scripture
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  • Is at an all-time high here in recent years.
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  • Yeah, so recently in early 2025,
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  • A christian scholar named wesley huff
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  • Was interviewed by joe rogan,
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  • Number one podcast in america,
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  • And joe asked some really serious questions
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  • About trusting in the bible,
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  • And there was some really in-depth answers
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  • On that podcast for millions upon millions
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  • Of americans to hear and to see.
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  • So it does seem like we're having unprecedented
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  • Levels of conversations regarding god's word.
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  • Would you agree with that?
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  • I would. and i'm intrigued that some scholarship
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  • Is getting put in major media as well.
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  • Joe rogan has had a number of interviews
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  • Where he's got people who really know their stuff.
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  • They talk about documentary evidence,
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  • They talk about apologetics.
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  • I mean, we're having conversations at an
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  • Aggressive and advanced level that i'm thrilled with.
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  • As christians, we talk
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  • When we use language concerning god's word,
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  • Like we need to be grounded and rooted or even anchored.
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  • How have we seen in the recent decades of how america
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  • And society has been really lost that anchor,
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  • That firm foundation of god's word?
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  • In short, the christians allowed the world
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  • To talk them out of their confidence in scripture.
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  • We had a confidence in scripture.
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  • It was a solid confidence;
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  • It wasn't just a matter of faith, though.
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  • It was also that, but also a matter of scholarship.
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  • And then popular media, movies and talk shows
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  • Began to question all of that and undermine it.
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  • We had, of course, the revolutions of the 60's
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  • And the 70's, and so we lost our confidence.
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  • But what's happening is christians
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  • Are reclaiming their heritage.
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  • They're realizing there are extra biblical sources
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  • That support biblical truth and support the life of jesus
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  • And the crucifixion of jesus.
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  • And it's amazing that with our new technology and podcast and
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  • So on that all of this is being discussed in popular media,
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  • I think it's a really exciting time.
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  • One of the great lies of the devil is that true freedom
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  • Comes when we un tether ourselves from god's word,
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  • That we become our own authority,
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  • That we get to define truth.
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  • But as people rediscover, as christians in particular,
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  • Understand the importance of god's word
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  • And god's word is not just a private truth,
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  • But a public truth.
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  • Talk about the relief and the refreshment that
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  • Comes in this cultural abyss that we live in today,
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  • From anchoring yourself firmly to god's word.
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  • Well, let me start negative first.
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  • Some of the saddest stuff i see in popular media is somebody
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  • Who's tried to transition their gender and now regrets it.
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  • Somebody who's had an abortion and now regrets it.
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  • Somebody who's lived the sexual revolution ideal
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  • And now regrets it.
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  • It's tragic, and so what's happening is our society
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  • Is realizing that the answers they've been handed
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  • Through secularism and through humanism and through
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  • Some of the crazy ideas out there are destroying lives,
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  • Making us miserable.
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  • So we're coming back to the idea of the good news,
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  • The evangelion in the greek,
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  • The good news of jesus, which is that there is a solid truth,
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  • That there is a god that he has revealed his will,
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  • And this is the manufacturer's
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  • Handbook for how we ought to live.
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  • It's interesting.
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  • Even famous atheists have said recently,
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  • I'm a cultural christian because they see
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  • The impact of truth and christian truth in society.
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  • So again, i want to say what i've been going around saying,
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  • And that is i think we may be in a pre-revival state here.
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  • If we'll pray and do our jobs,
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  • We may see some magnificent things happen.
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  • On the one hand, we're seeing
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  • A retreat from wokeness and woke ideology,
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  • But we realize that until jesus returns,
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  • There will always be a battle for the church to confront
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  • Always another cultural issue for the church
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  • To bring god's word to bear as a public truth.
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  • What do you see as the next big cultural battle
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  • For the church to confront?
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  • Well, i may surprise you, but in an era in which conservatism
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  • And especially secular conservatism is winning the day,
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  • The challenge for the church is going to be to bring
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  • Our christian and biblical distinctive to the fore and
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  • Distinguish ourselves from a hard-secular right wing.
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  • The fact is that the scriptures say;
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  • Don't exalt the rich or the poor.
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  • The scriptures talk about in a form of racial reconciliation,
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  • Right? we believe in this.
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  • The bible's not the manual for the clan,
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  • And this is the way a lot of people think of the church.
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  • So i think the next big challenge for us,
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  • In addition to calling souls to jesus
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  • Is going to be to say, wait a minute.
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  • Now there are social ethics that are surprising in scripture,
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  • And we want to teach the full truth of god
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  • And distinguish ourselves from a secular right wing,
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  • Which of course,
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  • Mass media has just painted us all with the same colors.
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  • But i think we're going to have to
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  • Distinguish ourselves and it's going to be a challenge.
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  • It's also going to be exciting and liberating.
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  • Stephen, one of the things that the new administration has
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  • Promised is deportation of illegal immigrants.
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  • You have many people crying that this is unfair; it's not godly,
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  • Certainly not christian.
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  • What is the christian response to deporting illegal immigrants?
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  • Well, often our politics are styled between two extremes,
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  • And the christians don't have to join one of those two extremes
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  • To be involved in the national debate.
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  • Often our views are somewhere in the middle
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  • Or maybe different from the hard left or the hard right?
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  • There's no question that we need to have strong borders.
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  • There's no question that we need to have secure borders.
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  • There's no question that we can't let
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  • The criminal element into our country.
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  • We're not being good caretakers
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  • Of what god has given us if we do.
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  • At the same time, we are christians
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  • Who believe in families and believe in helping
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  • The downtrodden and the hurting.
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  • So, what i want to say to everybody at this
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  • Stage in the game is, the script is not written yet.
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  • Let's get in there. let's infuse
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  • The debate with our biblical values,
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  • And let's have a compassionate policy that protects our nation.
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  • You know, one of the things we have to do is distinguish
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  • What is the responsibility of the individual and
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  • The church on the one hand and the state on the other hand.
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  • The state's responsible for a wise immigration policy
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  • And a compassionate immigration policy.
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  • But taking care of immigrants,
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  • Taking care of those who are mired in poverty,
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  • That's the role of the individual, your family,
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  • My family, our churches, and so we don't need to
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  • Lay on the state the obligations that
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  • We have as individuals for compassion and generosity.
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  • And i think that it will help us going forward,
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  • Especially as we deal with issues like immigration.
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  • Yeah. so helpful, brother.
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  • Thank you so much, stephen. so great to be with you.
  • 00:08:26.709 --> 00:08:29.111
  • As always, i appreciate the insights of my friend,
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  • Dr. steven mansfield, who is an historian
  • 00:08:32.582 --> 00:08:35.318
  • And best-selling author, as well as a senior fellow at
  • 00:08:35.318 --> 00:08:38.354
  • Our institute for faith and culture here at coral ridge.
  • 00:08:38.354 --> 00:08:41.157
  • We are at a true cultural crossroads in america,
  • 00:08:41.157 --> 00:08:44.427
  • And i think an exciting one.
  • 00:08:44.427 --> 00:08:46.128
  • The secular worldview has been found lacking
  • 00:08:46.128 --> 00:08:48.831
  • And even dangerous and soul-destroying.
  • 00:08:48.831 --> 00:08:51.267
  • The false gods of secularism have failed spectacularly.
  • 00:08:51.267 --> 00:08:55.304
  • That's why i found it so important to emphasize
  • 00:08:55.304 --> 00:08:57.740
  • The true and firm foundation of god's word
  • 00:08:57.740 --> 00:09:00.376
  • In a series for our congregation.
  • 00:09:00.376 --> 00:09:02.311
  • Here at coral ridge, and it's why i want to share
  • 00:09:02.311 --> 00:09:05.114
  • The beginning of that series here now with you .
  • 00:09:05.114 --> 00:09:12.455
  • Today, we begin a new sermon series entitled
  • 00:09:13.489 --> 00:09:16.859
  • How firm a foundation ,
  • 00:09:16.859 --> 00:09:19.462
  • The whole purpose of this series is
  • 00:09:19.462 --> 00:09:23.366
  • A pursuit together as a church to discover
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  • What it means to have a biblical worldview.
  • 00:09:26.769 --> 00:09:31.107
  • Now, you might be asking yourself,
  • 00:09:31.107 --> 00:09:33.275
  • I don't even know what a worldview is.
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  • Let alone a biblical worldview.
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  • A worldview is simply the framework
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  • From which we view reality and make sense of the world.
  • 00:09:41.350 --> 00:09:46.088
  • I've often said that everyone's a theologian
  • 00:09:46.088 --> 00:09:50.359
  • And everybody has a theology.
  • 00:09:50.359 --> 00:09:52.595
  • The question is whether you have
  • 00:09:52.595 --> 00:09:54.063
  • A good theology or a bad theology
  • 00:09:54.063 --> 00:09:56.866
  • In the same way, everyone has a worldview.
  • 00:09:56.866 --> 00:10:00.036
  • The question is what grounds and informs that worldview,
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  • What grounds and informs that framework by which you
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  • Make sense of the world and view all of reality.
  • 00:10:08.978 --> 00:10:14.550
  • Now to have a biblical worldview means that that framework,
  • 00:10:14.550 --> 00:10:19.889
  • That lens is informed by the infallible word of god.
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  • That it's the word of god that it's not something
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  • You just study and read.
  • 00:10:27.763 --> 00:10:29.198
  • It's not something we just examine on sunday mornings,
  • 00:10:29.198 --> 00:10:32.668
  • But it becomes the framework for all of life.
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  • It becomes the lens in which you understand reality.
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  • It is your viewpoint.
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  • That grounds you as the people of god.
  • 00:10:45.715 --> 00:10:50.086
  • It's interesting. george barna, the great researcher
  • 00:10:50.086 --> 00:10:52.955
  • Who's been researching biblical worldview in north america
  • 00:10:52.955 --> 00:10:56.125
  • Since the eighties said this about biblical worldview
  • 00:10:56.125 --> 00:11:00.096
  • In the north american church.
  • 00:11:00.096 --> 00:11:02.064
  • Our research has discovered that fewer than 10%
  • 00:11:02.064 --> 00:11:05.234
  • Of american christians actually possess a biblical worldview,
  • 00:11:05.234 --> 00:11:10.840
  • That that's not 10% of americans.
  • 00:11:10.840 --> 00:11:13.909
  • That's 10% of americans inside the church,
  • 00:11:13.909 --> 00:11:43.472
  • The majority of north american christians are walking aimlessly
  • 00:11:44.774 --> 00:11:50.112
  • Through life with a worldview that is informed by culture,
  • 00:11:50.112 --> 00:11:56.585
  • Informed by the philosophies of this world
  • 00:11:56.585 --> 00:11:59.722
  • And not informed and grounded by the very word of god.
  • 00:11:59.722 --> 00:12:04.860
  • So to have a found firm foundation and to have
  • 00:12:04.860 --> 00:12:08.264
  • A worldview that is informed by the word of god,
  • 00:12:08.264 --> 00:12:11.200
  • We begin this journey together,
  • 00:12:11.200 --> 00:12:13.736
  • Looking at colossians 2 versus 6 through 10,
  • 00:12:13.736 --> 00:12:57.012
  • The grass withers and the flower fades,
  • 00:12:57.947 --> 00:13:00.716
  • But the word of our lord, it stands forever. amen
  • 00:13:00.716 --> 00:13:05.554
  • Foundation matters.
  • 00:13:05.554 --> 00:13:08.691
  • A firm foundation makes all the difference in the world.
  • 00:13:08.691 --> 00:13:13.963
  • I think jesus said something about this.
  • 00:13:13.963 --> 00:13:16.866
  • He said, there's two houses.
  • 00:13:16.866 --> 00:13:18.701
  • One that is built on sand.
  • 00:13:18.701 --> 00:13:21.470
  • And when the winds of the world come crashing in
  • 00:13:21.470 --> 00:13:25.174
  • The house is blown away.
  • 00:13:25.174 --> 00:13:28.344
  • But there's another house that's built on a solid rock
  • 00:13:28.344 --> 00:13:31.747
  • That when the winds of this world come crashing in,
  • 00:13:31.747 --> 00:13:34.750
  • When the storms of life approach
  • 00:13:34.750 --> 00:13:38.120
  • Everything around it blows away.
  • 00:13:38.120 --> 00:13:41.457
  • But the house that's built on the rock,
  • 00:13:41.457 --> 00:13:43.826
  • A firm foundation is immoveable, isn't, shake-able,
  • 00:13:43.826 --> 00:13:49.732
  • And for some of you this morning,
  • 00:13:49.732 --> 00:13:51.734
  • You're crying out for stability.
  • 00:13:51.734 --> 00:13:54.603
  • You're crying out for that firm foundation.
  • 00:13:54.603 --> 00:13:58.574
  • For some of you here this morning,
  • 00:13:58.574 --> 00:14:00.509
  • The storms and the winds have been so severe.
  • 00:14:00.509 --> 00:14:03.445
  • You have been so disillusioned by life that you are wondering
  • 00:14:03.445 --> 00:14:07.583
  • Is a firm foundation even possible.
  • 00:14:07.583 --> 00:14:11.620
  • And the apostle paul reminds us through his word this morning
  • 00:14:11.620 --> 00:14:16.225
  • That no matter how bad the storms are,
  • 00:14:16.225 --> 00:14:19.228
  • No matter how strong the winds are of life,
  • 00:14:19.228 --> 00:14:22.665
  • That you can have a firm foundation
  • 00:14:22.665 --> 00:14:26.468
  • Informed by the very word of god.
  • 00:14:26.468 --> 00:14:32.174
  • What does it mean for us as a church and as the people of god
  • 00:14:32.174 --> 00:14:36.812
  • To seek a biblical world view.
  • 00:14:36.812 --> 00:14:40.416
  • Well the first thing we need to remember
  • 00:14:40.416 --> 00:14:42.217
  • That seeking a biblical world view means
  • 00:14:42.217 --> 00:14:45.521
  • We must be rooted in god's word.
  • 00:14:45.521 --> 00:14:49.191
  • Very simply paul says in verse 7
  • 00:14:49.191 --> 00:14:51.627
  • We are rooted and built up in him
  • 00:14:51.627 --> 00:14:55.030
  • Established in the faith just as you were taught.
  • 00:14:55.030 --> 00:15:00.369
  • This is simple but so profound.
  • 00:15:00.369 --> 00:15:04.306
  • How many christians do we see today
  • 00:15:04.306 --> 00:15:07.576
  • That are looking for answers in life
  • 00:15:07.576 --> 00:15:10.779
  • Answers for the hard questions in life
  • 00:15:10.779 --> 00:15:13.182
  • And they're looking everywhere
  • 00:15:13.182 --> 00:15:14.850
  • But the word of god and paul implores them.
  • 00:15:14.850 --> 00:15:18.821
  • Stick to the book.
  • 00:15:18.821 --> 00:15:21.790
  • Look to the word of god.
  • 00:15:21.790 --> 00:15:24.026
  • You are rooted and established in the faith
  • 00:15:24.026 --> 00:15:26.862
  • That you were taught.
  • 00:15:26.862 --> 00:15:28.230
  • What were they taught?
  • 00:15:28.230 --> 00:15:29.431
  • They were taught the word of god.
  • 00:15:29.431 --> 00:15:32.368
  • This means that we don't have to walk blindly through life.
  • 00:15:32.368 --> 00:15:36.505
  • It actually means we have a roadmap in order for us
  • 00:15:36.505 --> 00:15:41.543
  • Not to be lost and to navigate aimlessly through life.
  • 00:15:41.543 --> 00:15:46.682
  • The word of god, what you have been taught.
  • 00:15:46.682 --> 00:15:49.351
  • It is a reminder for us that in order to have a firm foundation,
  • 00:15:49.351 --> 00:15:53.956
  • God has given us his word.
  • 00:15:53.956 --> 00:15:56.025
  • He has spoken.
  • 00:15:56.025 --> 00:15:57.326
  • He has faithfully given us his word under his supervision,
  • 00:15:57.326 --> 00:16:01.897
  • An authoritative source of truth.
  • 00:16:01.897 --> 00:16:05.701
  • That is why every single sunday here at coral ridge,
  • 00:16:05.701 --> 00:16:09.471
  • We are reminded that the grass withers and the flower fades,
  • 00:16:09.471 --> 00:16:13.909
  • But the word of god, it stands forever.
  • 00:16:13.909 --> 00:16:16.912
  • It's why joshua, as he was taking over from moses.
  • 00:16:16.912 --> 00:16:20.783
  • And he's wondering, how can i be successful?
  • 00:16:20.783 --> 00:16:24.953
  • God says, stick to the book.
  • 00:16:24.953 --> 00:16:28.357
  • Don't let it depart from you, meditate on it day and night.
  • 00:16:28.357 --> 00:16:32.594
  • And then you will be prosperous.
  • 00:16:32.594 --> 00:16:34.997
  • Then your way will flourish.
  • 00:16:34.997 --> 00:16:39.168
  • And how many people even inside the church
  • 00:16:39.168 --> 00:16:43.372
  • Are sailing through life with no guide in no direction
  • 00:16:43.372 --> 00:16:49.078
  • And with no map or maybe even a faulty map.
  • 00:16:49.078 --> 00:16:52.781
  • You know, they always make the joke be about men and women
  • 00:16:52.781 --> 00:16:55.551
  • That men never like to ask for direction
  • 00:16:55.551 --> 00:16:58.287
  • Or men don't like navigation systems or maps.
  • 00:16:58.287 --> 00:17:01.056
  • Not this guy.
  • 00:17:01.056 --> 00:17:02.491
  • I mean, i could be on i-75 with no turns to make.
  • 00:17:02.491 --> 00:17:05.661
  • And i will have waze open on my phone the entire way,
  • 00:17:05.661 --> 00:17:09.465
  • Cuz i don't wanna make one wrong turn
  • 00:17:09.465 --> 00:17:11.366
  • Or waste one second of my trip.
  • 00:17:11.366 --> 00:17:13.902
  • I do not like to be lost,
  • 00:17:13.902 --> 00:17:17.039
  • But deep down inside, neither do you.
  • 00:17:17.039 --> 00:17:20.776
  • It is a terrible thing to be lost in this life.
  • 00:17:20.776 --> 00:17:24.046
  • It is a terrible thing to navigate this world
  • 00:17:24.046 --> 00:17:27.749
  • And all of its challenges
  • 00:17:27.749 --> 00:17:30.185
  • And god in his graciousness has given us his word,
  • 00:17:30.185 --> 00:17:35.157
  • A light unto our feet
  • 00:17:35.157 --> 00:17:38.393
  • So that we are able to answer the hard questions of life.
  • 00:17:38.393 --> 00:17:43.699
  • How do i do life?
  • 00:17:43.699 --> 00:17:45.367
  • How do i do marriage?
  • 00:17:45.367 --> 00:17:46.568
  • How do i do this hard thing like raising children?
  • 00:17:46.568 --> 00:17:50.339
  • How do i find my purpose in life?
  • 00:17:50.339 --> 00:17:53.108
  • What do i do about my career?
  • 00:17:53.108 --> 00:17:54.576
  • I'm at nearing the end of my life.
  • 00:17:54.576 --> 00:17:56.745
  • How do i deal with death and dying and suffering
  • 00:17:56.745 --> 00:17:59.381
  • In all of the questions of life,
  • 00:17:59.381 --> 00:18:01.383
  • We are able to take those questions
  • 00:18:01.383 --> 00:18:03.719
  • And apply them to god's word and say,
  • 00:18:03.719 --> 00:18:06.421
  • Thank god that my life can be rooted
  • 00:18:06.421 --> 00:18:11.193
  • To the objective authoritative truth of god's word,
  • 00:18:11.193 --> 00:18:16.298
  • That collides with the cultural systems of our day.
  • 00:18:16.298 --> 00:18:19.401
  • So that in the midst of the crazy noise of this culture,
  • 00:18:19.401 --> 00:18:23.906
  • We can have a lighthouse and be rooted
  • 00:18:23.906 --> 00:18:27.342
  • To the absolute truth of god's word.
  • 00:18:27.342 --> 00:18:30.045
  • So the question is, what is the key?
  • 00:18:30.045 --> 00:18:34.816
  • What is the thing that would motivate,
  • 00:18:34.816 --> 00:18:37.686
  • And move a people to stay rooted,
  • 00:18:37.686 --> 00:18:40.923
  • To, to say no to the ways of the world
  • 00:18:40.923 --> 00:18:43.592
  • To say no to the philosophies of our culture
  • 00:18:43.592 --> 00:18:46.828
  • And be rooted to the word of god alone,
  • 00:18:46.828 --> 00:18:50.065
  • What would move you and motivate you?
  • 00:18:50.065 --> 00:18:51.833
  • Well, the answer is in verse 6, paul says, therefore,
  • 00:18:51.833 --> 00:18:56.171
  • As you receive jesus christ, the lord, so walk in him.
  • 00:18:56.171 --> 00:19:01.743
  • How did you receive jesus?
  • 00:19:01.743 --> 00:19:04.446
  • Because you were smarter or more intellectual.
  • 00:19:04.446 --> 00:19:08.116
  • Paul is saying you received jesus by the grace of god alone.
  • 00:19:08.116 --> 00:19:14.323
  • So the same grace that saved you and brought you into the family
  • 00:19:14.323 --> 00:19:18.827
  • Is the same grace that keeps you in the family.
  • 00:19:18.827 --> 00:19:21.363
  • The same grace that connects you to the word,
  • 00:19:21.363 --> 00:19:24.866
  • The same grace that connects you to the truth
  • 00:19:24.866 --> 00:19:27.903
  • Is the same grace that keeps you connected.
  • 00:19:27.903 --> 00:19:31.540
  • It should so transform every area of your life
  • 00:19:31.540 --> 00:19:35.210
  • So that we're not only thinking like jesus,
  • 00:19:35.210 --> 00:19:38.480
  • But living like jesus as well.
  • 00:19:38.480 --> 00:19:42.918
  • It is the grace of god alone that brings us in,
  • 00:19:42.918 --> 00:19:47.055
  • But keeps us in that roots us and grounds us
  • 00:19:47.055 --> 00:19:50.592
  • And anchors us to that firm foundation.
  • 00:19:50.592 --> 00:19:57.599
  • Hi, i'm jennifer kennedy cassidy.
  • 00:19:58.367 --> 00:20:00.836
  • Americans live longer, healthier lives,
  • 00:20:00.836 --> 00:20:03.572
  • On average, than they ever have.
  • 00:20:03.572 --> 00:20:05.607
  • They make more money and live a more lavish lifestyle
  • 00:20:05.607 --> 00:20:08.944
  • Than any previous generation.
  • 00:20:08.944 --> 00:20:10.912
  • And yet, survey after survey shows they're unhappy.
  • 00:20:10.912 --> 00:20:15.717
  • Depression, drug addiction, and suicide
  • 00:20:15.717 --> 00:20:18.053
  • Have risen by alarming levels over the past 25 years.
  • 00:20:18.053 --> 00:20:22.124
  • Why is that?
  • 00:20:22.124 --> 00:20:23.992
  • Because the secular world has drained meaning
  • 00:20:23.992 --> 00:20:26.395
  • And purpose out of life.
  • 00:20:26.395 --> 00:20:28.363
  • Without a foundation, momentary pleasures are just a brief
  • 00:20:28.363 --> 00:20:32.534
  • Distraction from the empty void that awaits us all.
  • 00:20:32.534 --> 00:20:35.671
  • A foundationless generation needs a firm foundation
  • 00:20:35.671 --> 00:20:40.475
  • And that's found in god's word.
  • 00:20:40.475 --> 00:20:42.978
  • God is the designer and creator of the world
  • 00:20:42.978 --> 00:20:45.681
  • And of each one of us.
  • 00:20:45.681 --> 00:20:47.316
  • He governs his creation according to his sovereign plan,
  • 00:20:47.316 --> 00:20:50.919
  • And all of it is for a purpose.
  • 00:20:50.919 --> 00:20:53.388
  • That's why dr. rob pacienza has written the book,
  • 00:20:53.388 --> 00:20:56.158
  • How firm a foundation: 9 truths for an unshakeable faith,
  • 00:20:56.158 --> 00:21:01.663
  • And we'd like to send it to you as our thanks for your
  • 00:21:01.663 --> 00:21:04.232
  • Generous donation to the ongoing work of this ministry.
  • 00:21:04.232 --> 00:21:07.235
  • A firm foundation gives us meaning and purpose,
  • 00:21:07.235 --> 00:21:10.772
  • And there's no firmer foundation than the
  • 00:21:10.772 --> 00:21:13.275
  • Creator and designer telling us himself what it's all about.
  • 00:21:13.275 --> 00:21:17.579
  • Pastor rob digs through god's word to help you understand
  • 00:21:17.579 --> 00:21:28.724
  • And much more.
  • 00:21:29.191 --> 00:21:30.859
  • Rather than building the structure of your life
  • 00:21:30.859 --> 00:21:33.295
  • Upon shifting sands,
  • 00:21:33.295 --> 00:21:34.963
  • Build it upon the rock of god's word
  • 00:21:34.963 --> 00:21:37.632
  • And help someone you care about to do it too,
  • 00:21:37.632 --> 00:21:40.202
  • By getting and sharing
  • 00:21:40.202 --> 00:21:41.570
  • How firm a foundation by dr. rob pacienza.
  • 00:21:41.570 --> 00:21:45.073
  • And if you're able to give a generous gift of $60 or more,
  • 00:21:45.073 --> 00:21:48.577
  • We'll send you the book plus the 9-message dvd series
  • 00:21:48.577 --> 00:21:52.280
  • The book is based on, also entitled
  • 00:21:52.280 --> 00:21:54.916
  • How firm a foundation.
  • 00:21:54.916 --> 00:21:56.618
  • In these powerful messages, pastor rob gives you
  • 00:21:56.618 --> 00:21:59.988
  • 9 truths for an unshakeable faith,
  • 00:21:59.988 --> 00:22:02.591
  • All based on the solid rock of god's word and
  • 00:22:02.591 --> 00:22:06.395
  • Pointing us to eternal meaning and purpose to power our lives.
  • 00:22:06.395 --> 00:22:10.165
  • You heard just a portion of one of those messages
  • 00:22:10.165 --> 00:22:12.801
  • On today's program,
  • 00:22:12.801 --> 00:22:14.236
  • And you'll get the rest of that message plus
  • 00:22:14.236 --> 00:22:16.438
  • Eight more in this powerful teaching series.
  • 00:22:16.438 --> 00:22:19.341
  • That's the book, how firm a foundation, by dr. rob pacienza,
  • 00:22:19.341 --> 00:22:23.612
  • As thanks for your generous donation.
  • 00:22:23.612 --> 00:22:26.114
  • And the book plus the nine-message dvd series
  • 00:22:26.114 --> 00:22:29.484
  • As thanks for your gift of $60 or more.
  • 00:22:29.484 --> 00:22:32.187
  • And your generosity enables and expands
  • 00:22:32.187 --> 00:22:35.090
  • The impact of this ministry,
  • 00:22:35.090 --> 00:22:36.625
  • As we produce and air, biblically-based television,
  • 00:22:36.625 --> 00:22:39.861
  • Radio, and web content as well bringing the gospel
  • 00:22:39.861 --> 00:22:42.697
  • And the biblical worldview to capitol hill,
  • 00:22:42.697 --> 00:22:45.867
  • Defending america's christian heritage, and much more.
  • 00:22:45.867 --> 00:22:49.604
  • Simply write to us at coral ridge ministries:
  • 00:22:49.604 --> 00:22:56.745
  • Or call toll free:
  • 00:22:57.279 --> 00:23:02.184
  • Or go online to:
  • 00:23:02.651 --> 00:23:09.191
  • Since the 2024 election,
  • 00:23:09.791 --> 00:23:11.526
  • Things in washington d.c. have been changing at a rapid pace,
  • 00:23:11.526 --> 00:23:15.096
  • And most of them for the better.
  • 00:23:15.096 --> 00:23:17.032
  • But in the midst of president trump's cabinet confirmations
  • 00:23:17.032 --> 00:23:20.469
  • And elon musk's cost-cutting at doge,
  • 00:23:20.469 --> 00:23:23.038
  • One important development may have been overlooked.
  • 00:23:23.038 --> 00:23:26.374
  • A few weeks ago, president trump issued
  • 00:23:26.374 --> 00:23:28.677
  • An executive order establishing an official
  • 00:23:28.677 --> 00:23:31.246
  • Justice department task force to eradicate anti-christian bias
  • 00:23:31.246 --> 00:23:35.884
  • And he should be commended for doing so.
  • 00:23:35.884 --> 00:23:38.420
  • Under president obama, the irs targeted
  • 00:23:38.420 --> 00:23:41.122
  • Conservative christian organizations to deny them
  • 00:23:41.122 --> 00:23:44.125
  • Tax-exempt status because of their beliefs.
  • 00:23:44.125 --> 00:23:46.928
  • The biden administration prosecuted peaceful
  • 00:23:46.928 --> 00:23:49.898
  • Pro-life protesters and disproportionately so,
  • 00:23:49.898 --> 00:23:53.735
  • While encouraging the release of violent antifa rioters.
  • 00:23:53.735 --> 00:23:57.506
  • The late democratic senator diane feinstein opposed
  • 00:23:57.506 --> 00:24:01.209
  • Amy coney barrett's supreme court nomination,
  • 00:24:01.209 --> 00:24:04.045
  • Telling the catholic future justice that
  • 00:24:04.045 --> 00:24:07.015
  • “the dogma lives loudly within you.”
  • 00:24:07.015 --> 00:24:09.384
  • Socialist senator bernie sanders opposed
  • 00:24:09.384 --> 00:24:12.220
  • Russell vaught's nomination as deputy director
  • 00:24:12.220 --> 00:24:15.357
  • Of the omb by asking him the doctrinal question,
  • 00:24:15.357 --> 00:24:18.827
  • “do you think that people
  • 00:24:18.827 --> 00:24:20.695
  • Who are not christians are condemned?"
  • 00:24:20.695 --> 00:24:22.697
  • Now, christians have been taught by our lord
  • 00:24:22.697 --> 00:24:25.166
  • To expect a certain amount of opposition in this world,
  • 00:24:25.166 --> 00:24:28.503
  • And we want to make sure not to become
  • 00:24:28.503 --> 00:24:30.739
  • Just another whiney special interest group,
  • 00:24:30.739 --> 00:24:33.308
  • Always aggrieved and zealous to get “our share of the pie.”
  • 00:24:33.308 --> 00:24:38.246
  • But secularists have attempted now for decades
  • 00:24:38.246 --> 00:24:41.917
  • To drive christianity from the public square
  • 00:24:41.917 --> 00:24:44.486
  • And erase it from our nation's structures.
  • 00:24:44.486 --> 00:24:47.088
  • America was settled by those who came here
  • 00:24:47.088 --> 00:24:49.391
  • From england to practice their faith freely
  • 00:24:49.391 --> 00:24:51.993
  • And to build a community guided by biblical principles.
  • 00:24:51.993 --> 00:24:55.463
  • The founders of our nation heavily relied
  • 00:24:55.463 --> 00:24:57.966
  • On a christian framework for their thinking.
  • 00:24:57.966 --> 00:25:00.235
  • They divided the powers of government
  • 00:25:00.235 --> 00:25:02.237
  • To keep sinful men from holding too much authority.
  • 00:25:02.237 --> 00:25:05.640
  • They based our rights on the fact
  • 00:25:05.640 --> 00:25:07.375
  • Of having been created by god.
  • 00:25:07.375 --> 00:25:09.377
  • And they placed law above men even above the king
  • 00:25:09.377 --> 00:25:12.480
  • Because there is indeed a law above all men.
  • 00:25:12.480 --> 00:25:15.584
  • From the beginning, america
  • 00:25:15.584 --> 00:25:16.985
  • Has been a thoroughly christian country.
  • 00:25:16.985 --> 00:25:19.521
  • That doesn't mean it has been officially christian,
  • 00:25:19.521 --> 00:25:22.090
  • Or that every single american was a christian.
  • 00:25:22.090 --> 00:25:24.859
  • But it does means that the ideas, structures,
  • 00:25:24.859 --> 00:25:27.362
  • Philosophy, and political science of
  • 00:25:27.362 --> 00:25:29.965
  • Our constitutional government were all christian.
  • 00:25:29.965 --> 00:25:33.068
  • It's because of america's christian foundations that
  • 00:25:33.068 --> 00:25:36.504
  • Anyone is free to practice any religion, or none at all.
  • 00:25:36.504 --> 00:25:40.375
  • You don't find freedom of religion in muslim countries,
  • 00:25:40.375 --> 00:25:43.078
  • Or hindu countries, or in secular countries.
  • 00:25:43.078 --> 00:25:46.014
  • That freedom along with most others is only found in places
  • 00:25:46.014 --> 00:25:50.018
  • Where the gospel of jesus christ has gone first.
  • 00:25:50.018 --> 00:25:52.954
  • So it's commendable that president trump has established
  • 00:25:52.954 --> 00:25:56.191
  • The task force to eradicate anti-christian bias.
  • 00:25:56.191 --> 00:26:00.595
  • Christians don't need special rights just the rights and
  • 00:26:00.595 --> 00:26:03.598
  • Protections guaranteed to all citizens in the constitution.
  • 00:26:03.598 --> 00:26:07.836
  • The faith that built america
  • 00:26:07.836 --> 00:26:09.437
  • Should be free to flourish in america.
  • 00:26:09.437 --> 00:26:12.507
  • Coral ridge ministries is
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  • If you're ever in south florida, we welcome you to join us for
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  • Worship on sunday mornings here at
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  • Coral ridge presbyterian church,
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  • Or you can always join on livestream at:
  • 00:26:24.219 --> 00:26:28.223
  • And we also want to invite you to connect with us
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  • On social media at:
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  • And check out our vast library of video resources at:
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  • I want to thank you for joining us,
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  • And here's a look at the next truths that transform.
  • 00:26:43.071 --> 00:26:46.474
  • The civil magistrate is not called to turn the other cheek.
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  • Their called to bear the sword of justice.
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  • Romans 13 tells us that the government exists
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  • To punish evil doers and to reward the good.
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  • That's next week
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  • This has been a production of coral ridge ministries
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