Church? Hell No

                             Ordained minister Dr. Dennis Hall, takes a look at the American landscape by first focusing on who and what is behind the campus protests supporting Hamas and the Palestinians. He then turns his attention to the prosecutions of former president Donald Trump. The motive and frivolous nature of these prosecutions is discussed. He points out that greed and power seem to be playing a major role in these legal proceedings. He then turns his attention to the policies for immigration at the southern border that have created a dangerous travesty for America and a human tragedy for those caught up in this situation. He focuses on the human trafficking that is occurring on the southern border and how it is a form of modern-day slavery. Whether intentional or not it appears the US government has become the middleman in a large-scale, multibillion-dollar, child trafficking operation run by bad actors seeking to profit off the lives of children. Dr. Hall closes the podcast by examining the impact of a nation that seems to be losing its faith in the value of heritage, and how this contributes to the inability to secure the border. Can be seen on Youtube at: https://youtu.be/lTq3JHl8x0g

Ordained minister, Dr. Dennis Hall, addresses the anti-Israel rage that seems to be sweeping across the country. He points out that there are federal laws that could be enforced to address the protests that block roadways and shut down university campuses. Chanting, “Death to America” could be a violation of federal sedition laws. Dr. Hall also explains what the chant,  “From the river to the sea, Palestinians will be free” means. There is a discussion of how Muslim children are taught to hate the Jewish people. The terms, “Little Satan” and “Big Satan “are analyzed. It is pointed out that for Christians Israel is much more than an important ally of the United States in the Middle East. The Jews are God’s chosen people, and the land of Judea (Israel) is God’s gift. Dr. Hall closes the podcast by challenging the listeners to humble themselves, seek the Lord, and pray regularly for the United States. Can also be seen on YouTube at: https://youtu.be/DDqzlxbYMf8

Ordained minister, Dr. Dennis Hall, and his guest, Casey Jones, founder of Florida Sea Turtle Watch discuss the obvious fine-tuning of the earth by discussing the design of plant seeds and the process of germination which suggests an intelligent designer. They go on to address the things on earth that have to be so perfectly aligned to permit the existence of life. The role of DNA and molecular cell structure suggests that an intelligent designer, God, is the creator of all life. The miraculous lifecycle of the sea turtle is explored which also suggests that only an intelligent designer like God could have created this remarkable creature, the sea turtle. The podcast concludes by exploring the traits of human beings that cannot be explained by any natural process or evolution. The ability of human beings to love one another separates us from all other species. This trait allows us to understand John 3:16, “For God so loved the world that he gave his only begotten son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” Can be seen on YouTube at:https://youtu.be/2hhj9gSTJQI

                             Ordained minister, Dr. Dennis Hall, begins a discussion of the extreme obscenity in much of today’s music by pointing out that what comes out of our mouth is a window into the depths of our hearts. He explains the difference between obscenity, profanity, and vulgarity. The laws aimed at controlling obscenity and communications are reviewed pointing out that the new digital world makes it almost impossible through government regulations to control obscenity and the lyrics of today’s music. He points out how the use of explicit content in songs is becoming normalized. The impact on the young people of today is discussed concluding that obscene lyrics in music can interfere with cognitive functioning, physical health, mental health and sexual development. He talks about what parents and churches can do to address this expanding problem. The podcast concludes with Dr. Hall urging the listeners to refuse to listen to music with obscene lyrics. Can also be seen on YouTube at: https://youtu.be/APCjga-sLVc

                            Ordained minister, Dr. Dennis Hall, discusses the vociferous criticism of former president Donald Trump after he appeared in an infomercial encouraging supporters to buy Lee Greenwood’s “God Bless USA Bible.” He reviews criticism from not only television comedians but some professed Christians. The reaction of the spokesman for Trump simply says, “These are Never Trump idiots suffering from a severe case of Trump Derangement Syndrome.” Dr. Hall points out that Bible promoters and translators have had a terrible bloodied history. Those who first translated and distributed the Bible in the English language were considered criminals and were often strangled and burned at the stake. The history of the Bible is reviewed along with the criteria that was used to develop the books in the New Testament. Dr. Hall finds some interesting parallels between King David in the Bible and former President Donald Trump. The podcast concludes with Dr. Hall urging the listeners to do everything they can to promote reading the Bible. Can also be seen on YouTube at: https://youtu.be/aGHO1Cwtfck

Ordained minister, Dr. Dennis Hall, discusses the importance of Easter to the 2.6 billion Christians around the world. He points out that the sacrifice of Jesus on the cross grants salvation and eternal life to those who believe in him. The 37 miracles of Jesus described in the New Testament and the resurrection of Jesus provides the foundation for Dr. Hall to discuss the impact that the resurrection has had on the world. The effect of the resurrection on financial resources is discussed and pointed out that the resurrection effect turned ownership into stewardship. The Christian view of economics is reviewed leading to the conclusion that Christians should reject state-controlled and centrally-controlled economies like socialism and communism. The role that the resurrection effect has played in modern science is an important part of this discussion. As institutions of higher learning were established in America almost all were committed to spiritual literacy, Christian moral principles, and a biblical worldview. Salvation set these institutions on a course of excellence. The salvation effect also had that same impact the first hospitals in America. The podcast concludes with a discussion of the impact of the salvation effect on some of the greatest artists of all time. Can also be seen on YouTube at: https://youtu.be/uy3OGgqv6Ds

                             Ordained minister, Dr. Dennis Hall, discusses the biblical account of Palm Sunday and why they took branches of the palm and went out to meet  Jesus as he was making his triumphal entry into Jerusalem. He delves into why and when God created the palm tree. He then compares the other woody trees to palm trees anatomically. The resilience of the palm tree and its ability to live in tropical and arid climates and withstand high winds is explained. In 2008 the Guinness Book of World Records included a palm tree that germinated from seeds that were over 2000 years old. Leviticus 23 tells us that branches from the palm tree were waived in celebration during the Feast of Tabernacles celebrating the victory of freedom from the hands of their Egyptian captors who enslaved them for hundreds of years. As Palm Sunday is celebrated in Christian churches again palm branches and small crosses made from palm fronds will be used in the services. Can also be seen on YouTube at: https://youtu.be/4K-zgP57gHE

                            Ordained minister, Dr. Dennis Hall, is offended by the flippant wearing of a cross as a fashion statement. He explains the significance of the crucifixion of Jesus Christ on a cross to Christians. The history of the cross for crucifixion is outlined including the modern-day use of crucifixion. Dr. Hall points out that the practice of Christianity was outlawed until the fourth century when the Roman Emperor Constantine legalized Christianity. With the help of the Roman government Christian churches were built throughout the Roman empire and they included crosses in their architecture. The symbol of the cross played a role in darker episodes of history including its use by the Ku Klux Klan. The Christian community sees the cross as a central symbol of faith that Jesus Christ was crucified on a cross and that his death and resurrection offer salvation to humanity. Christians wear crosses for religious reasons, but many people wear them simply as a fashion accessory. Dr. Hall wonders if the most sacred image of other religions were worn as fashion accessories by half-naked women and rock stars, would it spark a protest? The podcast closes with Dr. Hall saying that he is not praying that nonbelievers will no longer wear the cross, but that they will come to understand what Jesus did for them so that they can wear the cross as a symbol of worship and not just fashion. Can also be seen on YouTube at: https://youtu.be/9LCfhFj6LlI

Ordained minister, Dr. Dennis Hall, addresses the criticisms of R C Sproul, a highly acclaimed Bible teacher and theologian, aimed at the music and style of contemporary church services. R C Sproul questions whether there can be reverence and awe before the living God in these kinds of services. He uses the comments of a young Christian woman at Liberty University to counter criticisms of contemporary church music when she says, “I fear that our hyper fixation on avoiding sin in our worship is actually causing us to sin by quenching the spirit.” Dr. Hall reviews the formation of the early church and points out the immense impact that Jewish synagogues had on the characteristics of the early church. After enumerating the dangers of Christians not assembling together Dr. Hall turns his attention to analyzing the characteristics of worship. You can do as many deeds as you want to or go to as many church services as you want to and never be worshiping if it is all external and nothing is happening in your heart toward God. Some feel that contemporary church music is on the decline. The podcast concludes with a reminder that it is important to understand that true worship comes from the heart and should permeate every aspect of daily living. Can also be seen on YouTube at: https://youtu.be/GoNC7C6DxN0

Ordained minister, Dr. Dennis Hall, reacts to individuals who cannot understand why white evangelical Christians have politically supported former president Donald Trump. It is primarily because he pledged to protect people of faith and he delivered on that promise. Clearly, former president Donald Trump has a colorful background, but on the other hand, he is the only president who invited groups of ministers to come to the Oval Office and pray with him and over him. Evangelical Christians believe that God will continue to bless America to the extent that we follow him. Many like Franklin Graham Pres. and CEO of the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association believe that America has turned its back on God and that at some point God will judge America. Dr. Hall reviews some of the biblical characters who had colorful backgrounds and became important to God in the expansion of his kingdom. The role that each of us play in the nation’s godlessness is analyzed. The symptoms of becoming godless as individuals are discussed. Dr. Hall concludes this podcast by urging the listeners to not forget what God has done for them and him become a part of the population that is turning its back on God. Can also be seen on YouTube at:https://youtu.be/BWkYIs_ztqc

Ordained minister, Dr. Dennis Hall, unwraps the meaning of Matthew 19:24 which teaches, “It is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for someone who is rich to enter the kingdom of God.” Dr. Hall states that it is not impossible for a rich man to go to heaven but very difficult. The parable of the hidden treasure is used to point out that to truly believe and follow Jesus is worth everything if it is worth anything at all. Scripture teaches that to whom much is given much is expected. Riches do not necessarily exclude a person from heaven and giving up a fortune is not a requirement for salvation since both Zachchaecus and Joseph of Arimathea were devoted disciples and had great wealth. Dr. Hall analyzes the definition of wealth, pointing out that half the population of the United States would be considered rich by world standards. Jesus makes the point in Matthew 10:34-39 that following him leads to difficult choices. There is no such thing as a “halfway disciple.” Jesus acknowledged that he would send the Holy Spirit to enable us to follow him. In other words, Jesus is telling us that with the help of the Holy Spirit, a rich man can get through the eye of a needle. Following Christ means that we must live as if Jesus is walking beside us in person. Can also be seen on YouTube at: https://youtu.be/rXL0cKOXwgo

Ordained minister, Dr. Dennis Hall, and his guest Pastor George Whirley, New Creation Restoration Church and Prison Ministry, Indianapolis, Indiana discuss why Christians seem surprised by God’s discipline on earth. Referring to Hebrews 12:7-12 these pastors point out that God disciplines his children to cause us to confess and repent of sin. God’s discipline is a good thing! In addition to having to deal with God’s discipline, we also must deal with the natural consequences that result from sin in society. God may forgive you but stealing may land you in prison. In John 9:2-3 we find Jesus explaining to his disciples that a man’s blindness was not caused by his or his parents' sins but so that the works of God might be displayed in him. These two pastors discussed how you know if God is punishing or disciplining you. God sometimes exposes our wrongdoings. He plays a role in making sure we pay the price to society for our misdeeds. He allows us to be tortured and haunted by guilt and shame. When God disciplines us, he is asking us to acknowledge our mistakes and errors and repent. Genuine repentance requires honesty, humility, and dedication. Forgiveness and positive change are always possible when we seek to follow God. Can also be seen on YouTube at: https://youtu.be/YDJ9A0rPcRE

Ordained minister, Dr. Dennis Hall, and his guest, Pastor Mark Souter of the Set Free Church that ministers to individuals distressed through life’s crises of drug addiction, alcoholism, homelessness, or lack of self-discipline and purpose in life. These pastors begin the podcast by pointing out that Jesus is long-suffering when it comes to sin. He extends forgiveness and redemption no matter which path you have taken in life. The characteristics of addiction and symptoms of substance abuse are discussed. The abuse of alcohol, methamphetamine, cocaine, and fentanyl is examined. These pastors turn their attention to the harmful effects of marijuana use. They spend some time discussing the Biblical instructions to stay sober. The podcast concludes by pointing out that God does not want us to have a buzz, hard to get high. If we are unable to think clearly, we are unable to grow closer to God. One biblical message is clear. God should be the top priority in our lives, and we should not be doing anything that gets in the way of being with him. Can also be seen on YouTube at:https://youtu.be/oqT2E3OOhFc

On this podcast ordained minister, Dr. Dennis Hall has Glenn Ellison founder and CEO of the Parent Help Center in Jacksonville Florida as his special guest. As Dr. Hall introduced Glenn Ellison, he acknowledged that he was a high school All-American football player with dreams of someday playing in the NFL, only to have those dreams dashed when he was kicked out of college. After a stint in the Marine Corps, he got the chance to play for the Oakland Raiders as a walk-on. The moral of Glenn Ellison’s personal story is to keep pushing, keep believing, and never underestimate the power of your resilience. Today, Glenn Ellison is leading an organization that helps parents bring peace back into their families. Dr. Hall and his guest begin by discussing the deep decline in church attendance in the US. They begin this podcast by discussing the characteristics of the generation known as the Millennials, those born between 1982 and 2001. These are the parents of those born after 2001 and referred to as Generation Z. Some refer to Generation Z as the first post-Christian generation, a generation that is clearly more irreligious than previous generations. It is reported that Generation Z has the least positive outlook and the highest prevalence of mental illness of any generation. The podcast ends with an admonition to grandparents, parents, family, and friends to recognize their responsibility to talk to this generation about God and Jesus Christ. Can also be seen on YouTube at: https://youtu.be/6or-1tScobw

Ordained minister, Dr. Dennis Hall, discusses the sexual violence in our society, especially child sex offenses. He points out that it is estimated that 60% of the women and children border crossers have been sexually assaulted on their journey.  That means there have been approximately 1.8 million sexual assaults on females and children attempting to cross the southern border of the U.S. since January 2021. He talks about the permanent impact on the brains of children when they are sexually abused. Dr. Hall discusses the role of pornography in the behavior of child sex offenders. The impact of pornography on the consumers of this content is reviewed along with the increasing exposure to pornographic material, even among children. Dr. Hall makes the case that pornography plays a direct role in sexual offenses against women and children. He ends the podcast by unpacking what God meant when adultery was prohibited as part of the 10 Commandments. Can be heard on all podcast search engines. Can also be seen on YouTube at: https://youtu.be/UjYvqE_Uccg

Ordained minister, Dr. Dennis Hall, expresses concern about the future of America and Western civilization. America is fraught with incredible danger from global conflict, an open Southern border, unwise economic policies, and self-defeating energy policies. The secular age of today is marked by what Prof. Charles Taylor calls excarnation as opposed to the incarnation of God that was celebrated at Christmas time. Excarnation is the withdrawing and denying of God by men In today’s secular society, Dr. Hall alludes to the degradation of morality in society from issues of marriage, abortion, dignity of work, rule of law, and a commitment to excellence. He points out that one of the primary characteristics of a society in excarnation is a lack of biblical humility. Proverbs 22:4 tells us that “Humility is fear of the Lord.” Dr. Hall points out that God cannot be for a group of people who lack humility and are full of arrogance, and that these traits will eventually bring us under God’s discipline. The lies told by an excarnate secular society are reviewed. Dr. Hall concludes this podcast by prayerfully hoping the listeners will have a commitment to unwavering biblical humility and that God will help us see everything in life, including our clothes, our humor, our entertainment, our vocation, our relationships, our politics, and all the rest through the eyes of God. Christians can change the direction of our country. Can also be seen on YouTube at: https://youtu.be/ph_gbHTJEnc

Nine out of ten adults say they believe there is a mental health crisis in the US today. Dr. Dennis Hall and his guest Dr. Ken Jones, Senior Pastor, Amelia Plantation Chapel, Fernandina Beach, Florida address the explosion of mental health issues in America. More than 50 million people in America are suffering from mental health conditions. The highest rate of mental health conditions are among young adults ages 18 to 25. It is more than twice as high as adults 50 and older. They review some of the causes for the dramatic rise in mental health issues. Among the causes discussed are smartphones, divisive news, violent TV programs, and video games, the breakdown of the family unit, sexual and gender confusion, and overly protected and indulged children. These pastors point out that God cares about your heart but also cares about your mind. Jesus said in Matthew 22:37, “Love you Lord your God with all your heart , with all your soul, and all your mind.” They describe how the sacrament of communion can impact the minds of believers and be transformational in their lives. God tells us, “RENEW YOUR MINDS!” by being led by the spirit. Can also be see on YouTube at: https://youtu.be/MUloFU7tZms

Dr. Dennis Hall describes loneliness and points out that on May 3rd the Surgeon General of the U.S. issued an advisory calling attention to a national epidemic of loneliness. Fifty percent of Americans report experiencing loneliness. It is more than a bad feeling. It is associated with greater risk of cardiovascular disease, dementia, stroke, depression, anxiety, and premature death. Loneliness is one of the best predictors of suicide. Social connection is a fundamental human need that is essential to survival as much as food, water, and shelter. In Genesis 2 the story of creation tells us God decreed, "It is not good for man to be alone. I will make a helper suitable for him."After reviewing some of the myths about loneliness Dr. Hall he examines some of the Surgeon General's recommendations which conspicuously omit the role that faith, church, and religion can play in addressing the epidemic of loneliness. He leads the listeners through a review of loneliness found in famous Biblical figures and provides insight about the loneliness felt by Jesus. Dr. Hall concludes this podcast by emphasizing that chuches provide a welcoming break from isolation. Can also be seen on YouTube at:https://youtu.be/ayy1vjlDxt0

Dr. Dennis Hall, an ordained minister, expresses his outrage and disgust over Glamour magazine (UK) putting on their cover a photo of a model described as a pregnant man. He reminded his listeners that Jesus referred to his followers in Matthew 5:13, "You are the salt of the earth. But if salt loses its saltiness, how can it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and trampled men." Dr. Hall,  an advocate and proponent for Christians participating in churches, raises the question, "Are American Churches the salt that has lost its savor?" He reviews the wokeness that has emerged in most of the denominations across America. Dr.  Hall states that what is referred to as liberal Christianity is corrupting our schools, universities, and churches at the hands of the woke, misguided administrators, teachers and pastors. He defines the term conservative evangelical Christian, pointing out that it is someone who believes that Jesus is the son of God and the Scripture is the infallible word of God. He points out that woke elitist liberals consider the Bible as old-fashioned, passé moral instruction. They no longer believe what Jesus clearly stated in John 14:6, "I am the way, the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me." He concludes this podcast by challenging Christians to not be confused that Christ's command to love others is a command to be civil in the face of evil in our churches. When Jesus said to turn the other cheek, he did not mean to turn a blind eye to what is going on all around us. The highest calling of Christians is not to be civil, but to be salt and light. Can also be seen on YouTube at: https://youtu.be/ESLWHdah8og

Dennis Hall and his guest Pastor Jay Powell, Church at the Beach, Panama City Beach, Florida begin this podcast by reviewing the lawless immorality that is being reported in the news. From the long-awaited report from the special counsel John Durham to the Los Angeles Dodgers baseball team inviting a group of drag queens who dress as nuns and mock Christianity, Catholics, and Jesus in obscene ways to their stadium with the intent of presenting them a pride night award, these pastors are concluding that we are in a time where immorality and lawlessness have spread across American culture. Everything seems upside down. Bitter is sweet. Right is wrong. Evil is good. Evil seems to be growing like a cancerous tumor in the U.S. Not only has there been an uptick in violent crimes, but drug overdoses are now the number one cause of death among adults ages 18 to 45 in the United States. The secular view is that evil is a myth. However, the Scripture suggests a different source of evil. "Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour." (1 Peter 5:8). After discussing the seven deadly sins found in Scripture, these pastors remind the listeners that mankind is the perpetrators of corruption, and that God sent his son Jesus to free us from these earthly chains and offer the gift of eternal life. Can be seen on YouTube at: https://youtu.be/JfQ7nPzq7p4