The Gary DeMar Podcast: Recent Episodes
Gary DeMar
Author, Theologian, Exegete, and Comic Book collector, Gary DeMar does what he does best: Talk about everything and anything, relating it to how the world actually works. Welcome to the Gary DeMar Podcast!
Gary discusses three recent items that address the ideas of the intellectual "elites" who believe they know how to understand and fix the world. Their primary solution is to eliminate you and others like you to stop you from messing up the world, but their borrowed capital takes them only so far.
Bible Prophecy Under the Microscope-Episode 103 Gary answers a question he often receives about having conversations with dispensationalists. It can almost feel like a language barrier, because they will hear the words of Scripture, but reinterpret them to mean something entirely different. Gary reveals a few questions that can be helpful in guiding the discussion.
Gary concludes his talk on the importance of knowing our own history. America was founded on a presupposed Christian worldview and didn't need a lot of civil government oversight because most citizens were properly self-governed. This is no longer the case, and we must recapture an understanding of our Christian heritage in order to have hope and direction for the future.
In a talk he gave recently, Gary discusses the importance of knowing where we've been (history) in order to see the way forward. America was founded on a presupposed Christian worldview and didn't need a lot of civil government oversight because most citizens were properly self-governed. This is no longer the case, and we must recapture an understanding of our Christian heritage.
Bible Prophecy Under the Microscope-Episode 102 Gary responds to a recent video by Pastor Jack Hibbs about the "expiration date of the United States." Claiming that Ezekiel 38-39 and Zechariah 14 are about what happens to Israel in our future, Hibbs makes an unbelievable leap in logic. Gary points out the actual context of these passages and the weapons that are being used to show it's not about our future or the USA.
Gary discusses the current state of education in public schools and universities. For all the money being spent and all the focus on "what is best for students," the quality of the product has been steadily declining for decades. Most students leave high school unprepared for college, and colleges have adapted to this, all the while raising prices and bringing in more and more students.
Gary discusses Christian worldview, the pastorate, and current events. Psalm 23 talks about "the rod and the staff" as sources of comfort, but what exactly does this mean? These tools are used by a shepherd to guide, direct, and protect the sheep. How should these tools be used today?
Bible Prophecy Under the Microscope-Episode 101 Gary responds to various views about the seven churches of the book of Revelation. Many see a rapture beginning in chapter four because the word "church" is no longer mentioned in the rest of the book. This is not the case, as Gary shows in this brief episode.
Gary is interviewed by Ricardo Davis from the Constitution Party of Georgia. The two have known each other for a while, and Ricardo relates how his initial introduction to Gary was through his book, God and Government. Ricardo has been putting those same principles into action in his work in politics and with the Constitution Party.
Gary is interviewed by Pastor William Ochoa from Guatemala about presuppositional apologetics. William has been translating some of Gary's books into Spanish, and he is currently working on Thinking Straight in a Crooked World. The conversation begins there and continues through why it is important for Christians to have answers to objections to the Christian faith.
Gary gives an overview of the book of Revelation and helps readers to put the confusing book into perspective. Context is key, and the timing of the events discussed in this last book of the Bible must be taken into consideration. Internal clues about when it was written also need to be taken seriously.
Why do Christians go to church every week? Gary discusses the need for biblical and worldview teaching and preaching that helps Christians to understand how God's truth applies and informs every area of life. No aspect of life is "off limits" to a biblical worldview; all of life is to be claimed for God's glory.
Get Theonomy: An Informed Response here: https://store.americanvision.org/products/theonomy-an-informed-response
One from the archives and the tactics remain the same. Political liberals are more than willing to use every means necessary to get their message out, even breaking tax laws. Conservatives and Christians seldom have this boldness. In fact, many Christians don't even see the reason to be involved. The Apostle Paul would not agree.
Bible Prophecy Under the Microscope-Episode 100 Gary discusses the date of the writing of the book of Revelation. Joel Richardson recently claimed that the historic church has primarily been premillennial in its eschatology and has held to a "late date" (around AD 95) for the writing of the book. Is this correct?
Gary responds to recent criticisms about certain rich people in America and whether they "need all that money." This is beside the point, aside from the fact that most critics are using technology created by billionaires to voice their opposition. It all comes down to the two Es: Eschatology and Economics.
Gary reveals that he is considering having a prophecy conference in the Nashville area next summer. Why is this necessary and what will be taught? Listen to today's episode to learn much more about what Gary has in mind for this potential event.
Leads for potential sites to hold the conference can be emailed to podcast@americanvision.org.
Bible Prophecy Under the Microscope-Episode 99 Gary points out that no one interprets purely "literally," although many prophecy speculators claim that they do. The book of Revelation says in the very first chapter that the book is "signs," not actual events and beings. In reality, interpreting the Bible "literally" means to interpret what it says in terms of the type of "literature" it is written in, whether historical narrative, poetry, apocalyptic, etc.
Every Fourth of July, we celebrate the "birth of the United States," but this is not quite accurate. The nation of America was born much earlier in the colonies. Thirteen colonies with independent governments and intact constitutions were operating in 1776. Gary discusses the early history of the colonies, and how they founded their laws and constitutions on the Bible.
Gary discusses a new book by Warren Throckmorton about America's Christian past. The book misses the point of what "historical" actually means, because no event or movement in history begins at one moment in time. All of history, as well as the present, is dependent on what happened before; it didn't just begin out of thin air.
Larry Ball's article on the recent PCA committee report is here.
Bible Prophecy Under the Microscope-Episode 98 Gary responds to a recent video by Joel Richardson about Matthew 24:15 and the "abomination of desolation." Before addressing Joel's claims, Gary conducts a brief survey of the Gospel of Matthew, reminding readers (and hearers) of what Jesus said and to whom He was speaking. Context and audience relevance are important and crucial to understanding.
Gary discusses the World Cup and the responses of international fans visiting America for the first time. Many of them were given a false idea about what the USA is like and come away surprised about how well they are being received. Gary also mentions some of the funny things that they are loving about the United States and the people they are meeting.
Stories keep piling up about the self-appointed "experts" going out of their way to enforce everyone to think and believe what they demand. Newspeak and media brain-washing are the tactics, but many regular citizens are (finally) starting to push back and question the "upside down" world of the cultural elite.
Bible Prophecy Under the Microscope-Episode 97 Gary discusses common misconceptions about Revelation 3:10 and its context, emphasizing the importance of understanding biblical prophecy within its historical setting. He clarifies that many interpretations of end-time events are misapplied and highlights the early church's view on Revelation's fulfillment.
Gary concludes his interview with Rod Martin about several recent elections and what he thinks might be coming in the near future. Rod believes that we are on the cusp of a "golden age" thanks to theological and worldview changes among many young men, exciting new technologies that will change life for many around the world, and many other encouraging signs for what's ahead.
Gary interviews his friend Rod Martin about the current state of politics in this country and all the fighting (and infighting) happening between the two major political parties. Rod has been active and studying the political landscape for years and has a unique take on what's happening among Americans—politically and religiously.
Bible Prophecy Under the Microscope-Episode 96 Gary discusses a verse from the book of Daniel (12:4) that has been widely cited lately in relation to Bible prophecy and artificial intelligence technologies. When Daniel says that "knowledge will be increased," he isn't referring to a general increase in the quantity of knowledge, as most modern prophecy writers want it to mean. It has nothing to do with computers, the internet, or AI.
Gary welcomes Kim Burgess back for one final episode of the series on 1 Corinthians 15. In this last installment, Kim focuses on three words often used in the NT—hope, glory, and inheritance—and puts them into biblical context for the time in which they were written, namely the first century.
Gary interviews author and speaker Bill Federer on today's episode. Bill has written nearly two dozen books on America's Christian history and has documented all of it with original source material. He travels all around the country giving talks and is booked nearly every week. More information can be found on Bill's website here.
Bible Prophecy Under the Microscope-Episode 95 Gary responds to a video by John Bevere that makes several claims about the pretribulational rapture and what the early church believed about Bible prophecy. Gary goes back to the text of the New Testament, specifically Matthew 24, to see what Jesus actually said about these things that were to come upon that first century generation.
Gary responds to an article published by Baptist News written by Mara Richards Bim about the recent report released by President Trump's Justice Department. Bim is very selective in her reporting, and what she will accept as "historical evidence" (it must come from a PhD "expert"), and discounts many Christian writers for their lack of doctorates, yet never deals with their actual claims. Gary points out her own historical ignorance.
Read the article here: https://baptistnews.com/article/anti-christian-bias-report-exalts-calvinism-and-lies-as-normative/
In this conclusion of a conference talk Gary gave recently, he discusses the apologetics of preterism. Many futurists are vehemently opposed to any argument put forth by any preterist, to the point that they call it heresy, even though they must reword and redefine simple words in the New Testament. Gary gives some advice about how to approach such people.
Bible Prophecy Under the Microscope-Episode 94 Gary discusses the hermeneutical concept of "audience relevance." Hermeneutics is the art and science of interpretation and we do it every day by reading other people's body language and tone of voice, among many other visual cues. Written words in the Bible don't have these cues, but we still need to read them as if we were the original recipients of the NT messages and letters in the first century.
In another conference talk Gary gave recently, he discusses the apologetics of preterism. Many futurists are vehemently opposed to any argument put forth by any preterist, to the point that they call it heresy, even though they must reword and redefine simple words in the New Testament. Gary gives some advice about how to approach such people.
Gary answers a listener question about a Greek word used in Matthew 25:5, Hebrews 10:37, and in the Septuagint in Habakkuk 2:3. The NT often uses OT language to show that similar events are soon to pass in the first century. Israel's history often feels like a series of cyclical events and Paul even mentions that these events happened as "examples" to his generation, "on whom the end of the ages has come" (1 Corinthians 10:11).
Bible Prophecy Under the Microscope-Episode 93 Gary takes a closer look at Acts 1:11, which is often pointed to as proof that Jesus will return exactly as He left during the Ascension. Most futurists use this verse to show that Jesus will return in His physical body because that would be necessary in order to fulfill "just in the same way" He went away. The problem is that this Greek phrase is translated differently in other parts of the NT.
Gary discusses the providential history of his life after high school and college and how he met and worked with Greg Bahnsen, David Chilton, Ken Gentry, and many others. This excerpt is from the Burros of Berea podcast.
Listen to the full interview here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/episode-77-testimonies-gary-demar-for-god-and-country/id1588605731?i=1000584078209
In the conclusion of this conference talk, Gary discusses the worldview implications of eschatology and why they're so important. Believing something is one thing, but acting on that belief has daily consequences. Morality, ethics, education, and social action all stem from a person's ultimate commitment to their beliefs about the future.
Bible Prophecy Under the Microscope-Episode 92 Gary responds to an article titled "Major Signs That the End of Life as We Know It is Near." Not surprisingly, the article uses biblical language to prove what it claims, and yet ignores both the context and the time frame of the original writing of the New Testament documents.
In this first part of a conference talk, Gary discusses the worldview implications of eschatology and why they're so important. Believing something is one thing, but acting in terms of that belief has daily consequences. Morality, ethics, and social action all stem from a person's ultimate commitment to what they believe about the future.
Gary interviews his longtime friend, Kirk Cameron, about how he came to embrace a new view of Christianity and the world. Kirk explains how he met Marshall Foster, how he came in contact with Gary DeMar, and what he is doing now. Spoiler Alert: He is taking his victorious Christian faith to the streets and libraries near you.
Gary interviews Bob Cruickshank, Jr. and Daniel Harden about Ezekiel 38-39 and how the book of Esther connects to it. Most Bible commentators make Esther stand alone, without any connection to the rest of the Bible. Gary, Bob, and Dan point out how seamlessly it describes the fulfillment of Gog and Magog and how the Messianic bloodline is kept intact, despite Haman's futile attempts to eradicate it.
Gary interviews Eric Ogea about a ministry he and his wife run in the Dallas, TX, area. Eric and Karen help women who are considering abortion and teach them how to view all of life through a biblical worldview. Eric explains that while pro-life ministry is often viewed as "women's work," there is a great need for men to get involved as well.
Gary answers several questions about Israel from a regular listener. Genesis 12, Matthew 25, and John 8 are all discussed as Gary shows that the Bible doesn't have a special plan, apart from salvation in Jesus Christ, for those who claim to be Jews. All sinners, Jews and Gentiles alike, are saved through the finished work of Jesus, not through who they claim as an ancestor.
Bible Prophecy Under the Microscope-Episode 90 Gary responds to continued feedback from his recent online debate with prophecy writer Joel Richardson about Gog and Magog (Ezekiel 38-39). Using the famous OJ Simpson trial defense line about gloves not fitting, Gary shows how Richardson's prophetic interpretive gloves also don't fit the biblical facts.
Gary discusses his recent debate with Joel Richardson about Ezekiel 38-39, the famous Gog and Magog chapters. Joel believes these events are still future; Gary believes they were fulfilled in the events described in the book of Esther.
Listen to Gary's recap here and find the original debate from Joel's podcast here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V8dXhpMHCXw
Gary interviews Robert Cruickshank at a conference in Virginia Beach. Gary and Robert have known each other for a long time through phone calls and email but had never met personally until this interview. The two discuss how questions they had about what they were reading in the Bible led them to where they are today.
Get Gary and Bob's new book on Zechariah 14 here: https://store.americanvision.org/products/making-prophetic-sense-of-zechariah-14
Bible Prophecy Under the Microscope-Episode 89 Using the analogy of a puzzle, Gary points out that many prophetic systems try to fit biblical facts into their system, but without having the full picture from the front of the puzzle box. Bible prophecy isn't a stand-alone discipline within biblical interpretation; it must stand alongside everything else taught in Scripture. In other words, it must be consistent with all the Bible teaches from Genesis to Revelation.
Gary discusses economic policies and ideas that sound good on the surface, but set generations of people up for long-term failures and government dependency. Socialistic promises sound appealing, but someone (spoiler alert: you, the taxpayer) always has to come up with the money to fund these promises. Taking from one area always affects other areas because our economy is interconnected.
Please consider donating to the matching grant here: https://subsplash.com/u/americanvision/give
Gary continues his interview with economist Jerry Bowyer. Many details given in the Gospels are extremely important for a proper interpretation of what Jesus said and did and why. These historical and cultural clues are often overlooked, but they add depth and context to the New Testament that modern readers can and should apply to their reading and preaching of the Gospel.
Get Jerry's book, The Maker vs. the Takers, here: https://store.americanvision.org/products/the-maker-vs-the-takers
Bible Prophecy Under the Microscope-Episode 88 Gary discusses current Facebook speculation about the war in Iran, Islam, and Ezekiel 39-39. Once again, the popularizers take world events and cram them into a verse or two in the Bible, completely ignoring both the original context and the audience. They claim to interpret the Bible "literally" but stop doing so when the biblical facts don't fit their current scenario.
In this first part of an interview with author Jerry Bowyer, Gary discusses the economic and cultural arena of the first century. The Bible cannot be interpreted properly without a clear understanding of the times and customs of the people and places described in the text. As an example, Jerry helps add clarity to Jesus' words to the rich young ruler.
Get Jerry's fascinating and eye-opening book, The Maker vs. the Takers, here: https://store.americanvision.org/products/the-maker-vs-the-takers
In this third and final part of his interview with Canadian television program, Thrive, Gary points out several aspects of how most modern prophetic teaching doesn't fit with what the Bible actually says. He discusses a few verses that created questions for him when he was a new Christian and caused him to study the issue much more closely.
Bible Prophecy Under the Microscope-Episode 87 Gary responds to a recent bestselling book by author John Bevere called "The King is Coming." While he makes several good points in his book, Bevere also falls for the "chicken little theology" that claims the sky is falling and Jesus is coming "any day now." Gary clears the confusion by pointing to what the Bible itself actually says.
In this second part of his recent interview on a Canadian television show, Gary continues the conversation by taking a closer look at the context of the New Testament. Being a Berean means questioning popular assumptions to "see if these things are so." A careful and honest study must be made to determine whether the time markers in the New Testament point to a distant future—or to a fulfillment tied to the first-century audience.
In this first part of his recent three-part interview on the Canadian television show, Thrive, Gary recounts his own history with Bible prophecy. Most Christians have never heard any other view of Bible prophecy than the popular Christian bookstore version, and the hosts of this show wanted that to change for their audience.
Watch the video interview here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wIyNjojoTmw&t
Bible Prophecy Under the Microscope-Episode 86 Gary responds to another video by Joel Richardson and his claims about the "abomination of desolation." Gary walks through the Bible and shows what it actually teaches about this "abomination" and where it was fulfilled in the past, not the future. A temple must exist for this prophecy to happen, which can't make it relevant to today. But wait, the temple will be rebuilt...
Gary interviews Ray Moore with Exodus Mandate about homeschooling, Christian schools, and a debate that Ray did over America's Christian history. Ray is a major proponent of getting Christians to leave public schools and his organization provides support and educational materials to aid in the transition once parents decide to educate at home or even start a Christian school in their area.
Gary responds to an interview with author Jerry Jenkins of Left Behind fame. Jenkins claims that the Bible tells us that time means something different to God than it means to us, yet he still makes the claim that the end times are "probably soon" to happen.
Bible Prophecy Under the Microscope-Episode 85 Gary responds to a recent video from Joel Richardson where he claims to refute preterism. Richardson mentions Gary directly and gives false information about what he believes. Besides that, Richardson's primary claim to refute preterism actually ends up doing the exact opposite when understood in context.
The conclusion of Gary's interview with Alex Bernardo of The Protestant Libertarian Podcast. Gary gives a short overview of some of the most misunderstood aspects of biblical prophecy, including the "antichrist" and the "man of lawlessness." The remainder of the discussion focuses on economics and what the Bible has to say about money.
In this first half of his recent appearance with Alex Bernardo of The Protestant Libertarian Podcast, Gary discusses some of his own personal history and how he became interested in how the Bible is related to both economics and eschatology. The two topics are much more intertwined than one might think.
Bible Prophecy Under the Microscope-Episode 84 Gary comments on a recent interview that Tucker Carlson had with Carrie Prejean Boller about the nation of Israel. Boller makes very good points about the modern state of Israel not being the same as the biblical nation of Israel. It's also an opportunity to discuss another Tucker interview, one with the US Ambassador to Israel, Mike Huckabee.
Gary responds to the bizarre statements being made by self-proclaimed Christian, seminary student, and potential U.S. senator, James Talarico. He has been on The Joe Rogan Podcast and recently defeated Jasmine Crockett in a primary. His theological statements are as wacky and unbiblical as his politics.
Gary discusses an article on the Front Page Magazine website about the current state of craziness in western culture. Could all the political nonsense and cultural insanity be signals of the end of western civilization? If so, what should be the response of concerned Christians? We can either survive or commit suicide—sink or swim—by using what we have at our disposal.
Bible Prophecy Under the Microscope-Episode 83 Gary responds to a Facebook video where an individual claims that the Gospel must be preached in the "whole world" before the end comes. This promise comes from Matthew 24:14 and is constrained by the timeframe of Matthew 24:34. Gary points out that the phrase doesn't mean the entire world as we know it today, as well as several verses proving that the Gospel was preached "in all the world" before that first-century generation came to pass.
Gary answers a very often-asked question these days about Israel's role in the biblical "end times." It will come as no surprise to any regular listener, but Gary explains why modern-day Israel does not have any prophetic significance, including their current "wars and rumors of wars."
Two years ago, Gary recorded this podcast about a relatively unknown politician in Texas. He has recently become more well known. James Talarico claims to be a Christian and has said a number of things publicly that actually pit the Bible against itself. Gary quotes some of them and warns about wolves wearing sheep's clothing (or clerical collars).
Bible Prophecy Under the Microscope-Episode 82 Gary continues his overview of biblical eschatology by refuting current speculation about the "prophecy of Elam." The OT reference to Elam does not begin (or end) in Jeremiah 49 and there is much to say about how this is fulfilled in the New Testament, not in modern-day "wars and rumors of wars."
Gary introduces a two-part discussion about all the recent speculation and finding biblical "proof" that the current Iran invasion is fulfilling Bible prophecy. Gary gives an overview about how Jesus viewed the end times, the events He said to watch for, and who would be involved.
Gary responds to a Facebook reel from a "pastor" in clerical garb defending abortion. Despite using a Bible verse to "prove" his point, this minister is not teaching truth about what the Bible actually teaches about life in the womb.
Bible Prophecy Under the Microscope-Episode 81 You've probably heard it said that the Gospel going out into all the world is a sign that Jesus' second coming is near. The spreading of the Gospel is a good and necessary thing, in fact, Jesus commands it. However, it is not a sign of the coming end times, because the prophesied event from Matthew 24 has already happened.
Gary invites Kim Burgess back to the podcast to conclude his series on the resurrection and 1 Corinthians 15. In this final episode, Kim goes through several verses in the New Testament to help make his point about what it means to be "alive in spirit" and what Paul is talking about when he says we will be given a "spiritual body."
Gary gives an update on what he's been working on lately, and responds to an article about the antichrist by Jase Robertson. Gary points out that too often Christians read the Bible as if it was written yesterday, rather than thousands of years ago in a completely different historical context. It's "Bob Beamon Exegesis," which Gary also explains.
Get Gary's book, The Antichrist, Beasts, the Man of Lawlessness, and 666, here: https://store.americanvision.org/products/the-antichrist-beasts-the-man-of-lawlessness-and-666
Bible Prophecy Under the Microscope-Episode 80 Gary responds to a Facebook video by an individual claiming that the rapture and the end times are very "soon" to begin. The video asks good questions, but seems to overlook the fact that the same audience Jesus is addressing in the first century is the same one that will see the things He discusses in Matthew 24.
Gary concludes his interview with Pastor Alex Gillan from the United Kingdom. The two discuss the NT's use of "earth-shaking" and "cosmic" language that sounds like the "end of the world." However, the OT also uses this type of language very often; it must be understood in context.
Gary is interviewed by UK Pastor Alex Gillan about biblical eschatology and fulfilled prophecy. Gary points out that every Christian is a preterist of some kind, because their faith depends on events that Jesus fulfilled—in the past. Past fulfillment is not a strange addition to Christianity; the Christian faith is founded upon past events being fulfilled.
Bible Prophecy Under the Microscope-Episode 79 Gary responds to recent comments by individuals who claim that our modern days are fulfilling Daniel 9. Using the Bible (and Daniel 9 itself), Gary shows how this is not possible. So much of what these speculators say is based on assumptions that come from outside the Bible.
Gary uses a recent trip to a pizza restaurant (two actually) to teach a lesson about free-market economics. Governments should not be involved in what businesses offer (or don't offer) and how much money they make or charge. Customers will quickly let a business know the value of its decisions.
Gary discusses some of the logical consequences of the craziness being espoused by certain people lately. It is unreal how far people will go to hold on to a position that is untenable (at least to most reasonable people). Claiming that they are showing their "compassion" on one hand, they fall off the logic train on the other side.
Bible Prophecy Under the Microscope-Episode 78 In 2 Peter 3, we read about "scoffers" or "mockers" coming in the last days. Some modern prophecy writers accuse preterists of being these "scoffers." Gary disputes this claim by using the Bible to interpret itself and also by recognizing the Bible's own timing of when the last days take place.
Gary continues his interview with artist Dan Riedel about his friendship with Dr. Cornelius Van Til. Far from being a cold academic, Dr. Van Til was a warm, caring individual that wanted to see people come to Christ. He was every bit as much an evangelist as he was a professor. He well understood that the end goal of apologetics was not to win an argument, but a human soul.
Check out Dan's artwork here: http://danielhillriedel.com/
Gary interviews his long-time friend, Dan Riedel, who painted the artwork for the cover of the new book, The Objective Proof for Christianity. Dan knew Cornelius Van Til well and tells a few stories about his long relationship with the man.
Get some of Dan's fantastic art for your home here: http://danielhillriedel.com/
Bible Prophecy Under the Microscope-Episode 77 Gary analyzes a clip from a teacher on Facebook claiming that Gog and Magog from Ezekiel 38-39 will soon be upon us. Pointing out first that the chronology of what this person is saying is all wrong, Gary continues to show how the Bible teaches that Gog and Magog is not a future event at all, but was fulfilled long ago.
Get Gary's book, The Gog and Magog End-Time Alliance, here: https://store.americanvision.org/products/the-gog-and-magog-end-time-alliance-israel-russia-and-syria-in-bible-prophecy
Politicians constantly boast about how they are helping people. Whether it's free food, money, or anything else, they always claim to be helping the people who voted for them. Gary points out that an episode from The Twilight Zone reveals the complete scam of political, or other worldly, promises.
Gary discusses ICE, the Immigration and Customs Enforcement agency. He explains when and why it began and what its jurisdiction and purpose is. He also reveals some lesser-known facts about how many illegal immigrants were deported under previous administrations. He also analyzes the "storming of churches" that is happening in Minnesota.
Bible Prophecy Under the Microscope-Episode 76 Gary discusses Jesus' statement in Matthew 23:35 about Zechariah, son of Berechiah. There has been much speculation over the years about who is being spoken of here, especially since those listening to Jesus at the time were being accused of the crime.
Gary continues his discussion with Bob Cruickshank about the biblical usage of the word "antichrist." Modern speculations about particular people being the "antichrist" are off-base because they rarely use the actual biblical texts about antichrist in their speculations. They are wrong time and time again because they begin with false assumptions.
Gary interviews his friend Bob Cruickshank about a few recent articles he has written about the "antichrist." Bob points out that most modern writings and teachings about the "antichrist" almost never use the actual Bible verses where the word appears. What results is a high-tech, science-fiction amalgamation of a figure completely contrary to the actual biblical context.
Bible Prophecy Under the Microscope-Episode 75 Gary interviews Ed Stevens about the 1993 Covenant Eschatology Symposium that was held in Florida. R.C. Sproul was one of the attendees and had many good things to say about letting the Bible be the final authority on the topic. Ed discusses the proceedings of the conference, as well as some of his personal interactions with David Chilton before his death in 1997.
Read Gary's article that contains R.C. Sproul's full closing comments here: https://americanvision.org/posts/r-c-sproul-before-the-three-questions-letter-controversy/
Gary and Kim return to the conversation of 1 Corinthians 15 by discussing parallel passages in 2 Corinthians. We must take all of the New Testament into consideration to fully understand what Paul is teaching about the future state and our own personal resurrection. Paul speaks corporately at times and individually at others, but we can't allow either one to define the other.
Gary offers his initial thoughts about the taking of Nicolas Maduro by American troops and the situation in Venezuela. More information will invariably come to light, which may change his thoughts on the topic. Listeners have been asking about the biblical viability of this mission by the Trump administration and Gary gives his high-level answers on what we know (or what we are being told) currently.
Bible Prophecy Under the Microscope-Episode 74 Gary discusses recent claims about current events being some of the "signs" from the book of Revelation. These events cannot be what modern pastors and speculators are claiming, without making complete nonsense of what the book of Revelation says about how it is to be understood.
Gary discusses recent comments from some leftists about "taxing rich people"—like Jeff Bezos and Elon Musk—at a higher rate. This is such an illogical idea, for many reasons, as Gary makes clear. People rarely think beyond their own situation and are driven by envy to "get those rich people."
Gary responds to claims made by Pastor Loran Livingston in a sermon, where he calls the Trump Bible "disgusting" because it includes the Constitution and Declaration of Independence. Gary also weighs in on Pastor Livingston's claim that Earth is not his home, as well as his own thoughts about adding extra material to printed Bibles.
Bible Prophecy Under the Microscope-Episode 73 Gary kicks off 2026 with a reminder that last days craziness and doomsday predictions of the end have been going on for a very long time. Unfortunately, it appears that pastors and writers haven't learned this lesson and that the coming year will not see a slowdown in "last days madness." Gary provides the remedy.
Get Gary's book here: https://store.americanvision.org/products/last-days-madness
Gary recaps 2025 and looks ahead to what he has planned for the coming year. There are always new writing and research projects, as well as reprints from American Vision's past work. A biblical worldview encompasses every area of life, not only eschatology, and Gary has many works coming that help Christians think and live biblically.
Please consider a year-end donation to AV here: https://subsplash.com/u/americanvision/give
God created trees. He made them for us: for home building, decoration, shade, construction of fences, tables, chairs, sheds, and so much more. Just because pagans might have carved up a tree to make an image of a false god to be worshipped does not mean that we can't use them to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ, God's "indescribable gift" to us (2 Cor. 9:15).
Read Gary's article here: https://americanvision.org/posts/are-christmas-trees-pagan-symbols/
Bible Prophecy Under the Microscope-Episode 72 Gary responds to a dispensationalist pastor who takes issue with something said by John Rich on a recent podcast with Tucker Carlson. The pastor claims that what Rich was saying was not only misleading, but flat-out false about what Dispensationalism and Christian Zionism teach regarding Israel's future. Gary points out that this pastor doesn't understand his own position clearly enough.
Bible Prophecy Under the Microscope-Episode 61 Gary concludes his response to Amir Tsarfati about Israel being saved and God's promises to them. Amir's dispensationalism teaches a 2000-year gap (and counting) between what God promised and what is happening with Israel now. To make matters worse, Amir's beliefs also have a huge time of trouble and tribulation for the Jews.
Gary points out how much disagreement and confusion exists in popular media and Christian pastors about the future of Israel. The very prophetic system that most of them hold to teaches that the next thing on the prophecy clock for Israel is a terrible holocaust where two-thirds of them will be killed.
Gary points out that the mainstream media's obsession with the boogeyman of Christian Nationalism is a willful ignorance of Islamic Nationalism. Muslims have no problem admitting that their goal is total domination through conversion or submission. And yet, Leftists don't seem to be bothered by this and focus more on Christian Nationalists as the problem.
Bible Prophecy Under the Microscope-Episode 60 Gary continues his response to Amir Tsarfati, who tried to take Kirk Cameron to task for comments he made about Israel. Gary shows how inconsistent, ahistorical, and unbiblical Tsarfati's view of Bible prophecy really is. It is nothing more than repackaged information from many other dispensational speculators over the last 50 years.
Gary is interviewed by Rick Welch about the 3Q Controversy and how his podcast played a role in it. Gary gives much more clarity and the historical background about how the controversy began, as well as where it seems to stand currently. Also during that same time, Gary and Kim Burgess did another podcast in 25 parts called Covenant Hermeneutics and Biblical Eschatology.
Gary discusses celebrities like Rosie O'Donnell, Robin Wright, and Ryan Gosling who have decided to move away from the United States for political reasons. Gary points out that not only are these people multimillionaires and able to do such things, what they are really doing is what is best for them, not for the underrepresented people that they claim to care about.
Bible Prophecy Under the Microscope-Episode 59 Gary responds to a recent video by Amir Tsarfati in response to something posted by Kirk Cameron. The topic is regarding comments made by Ted Cruz on Tucker Carlson's show about the continuing importance of Israel as a nation in God's redemptive plan in Genesis 12.
Gary discusses recent news stories and responses to the Charlie Kirk assassination. It is getting more difficult to deny the truth of Christianity and its worldview implications. Leftists are starting to consume their own and fall back on their own "truth" in order to maintain consistency with what they proclaimed last week.
Gary addresses the current lack of call to order coming from American pulpits. Too often, pastors think preaching book by book through the Bible is the "right" way to preach and not to be distracted by the events of the day. However, his often leaves congregants unable to deal with what is happening now and unaware of how the Bible relates to current events.
Bible Prophecy Under the Microscope-Episode 58 Many Christians are claiming that the assassination of Charlie Kirk in front of the world via the internet and social media is yet another sign that the "last days" are upon us. Gary gives some historical and biblical perspective in response to such speculative claims.
Gary discusses pastors and politics and answers a Facebook commenter named "Missionary Larry." Larry repeats most, if not all, of the Myths, Lies, and Half-Truths mentioned in Gary's book by the same name. Gary points out that politics are unavoidable, and ignoring them only increases the level of them, in any area of life, including church life.
Gary briefly discusses the Charlie Kirk assassination and goes into detail about a new book he received the day before called The Separation of Church and Hate. Leftists have long-claimed that "fundamentalists" and "white nationalists" misinterpret the Bible and "twist Scripture." This book reveals who is really promoting modern "cleverly designed fables" about Jesus and the Bible.
Bible Prophecy Under the Microscope-Episode 57 Gary answers a listener question about Bible prophecy. He received an email from an individual who said that his pastor was beginning a series on Bible prophecy and gave an introductory talk that included six over-arching principles. The listener asked Gary to respond to the six principles.
Gary interviews J.D. Rucker with Patriot.tv and TheLibertyDaily.com. J.D. is politically and culturally informed, but more importantly, he is a Christian that understands the worldview antagonism behind the cultural trends of the day. Through his various websites, J.D. wants to help others stay informed and get connected to others doing the same, in every area of life.
Gary recaps his recent trip to Moscow, Idaho and all of the various people he met while there. Due to the "company he keeps," Gary has been taken to task by various individuals on social media who are demanding that he answer them. Gary gives his view on the situation and what he really thinks about demands being placed on his time.
Bible Prophecy Under the Microscope-Episode 56 Gary discusses general interpretative principles about the Bible and specifically, the book of Revelation. When people become Christians due to some scary interpretation of the end times taught by a well-meaning teacher, they often jump right to the last book to begin their initial reading of the Bible. This usually causes more confusion than clarification for them.
Gary interviews Doug Wilson about the how and why of worldview Christianity. Doug and his family have been in Moscow, Idaho since the late 1960s. The applied Christianity that Doug saw and learned from his father continues to this day. The influence he and others are having even gained the attention of CNN. Listen to this fascinating interview about how a long-term vision can bring change.
Get Jim Wilson's book, Principles of War, here: https://store.americanvision.org/products/principles-of-war
Reality and "truth" are being fragmented by modern political and social efforts and promulgated through the internet and social media. Non-Christian beliefs don’t and can’t offer anything in terms of a comprehensive worldview. Dr. Gary North joins Gary DeMar on today's episode with a discussion about today's fragmented world.
Bible Prophecy Under the Microscope-Episode 55 Gary discusses the myth of "replacement theology." Critics claim that certain Christians are claiming that the Church "replaces" Israel in God's plan for the world. This is wrong historically, logically, and most importantly, theologically. Gary explains why in great depth with actual Bible passages.
Gary brings up several recent news stories and provides a bit of historical insight into the craziness. Leftists constantly accuse those on the Right (and those involved with MAGA and MAHA) of being "fascists." The reality is that the real fascists and racists are the ones who loudly proclaim to be the most offended.
Gary discusses the recent Facebook obsession about the "rapture" coming next month. Certain individuals are teaching that the rapture will "definitely" be on September 22-25, 2025. Gary issues a challenge to anyone convinced of the truth of these prophecies to sign over all their assets to American Vision on September 26, after this newest "sure thing" prophecy is proven to be wrong.
Get Gary's book, The Rapture and the Fig Tree Generation, here: https://store.americanvision.org/products/the-rapture-and-the-fig-tree-generation
Bible Prophecy Under the Microscope-Episode 54 Gary continues going through Daniel 9 and the 70 weeks prophecy. He connects the events of Daniel 9:24-27 to the rest of the Bible and proves that a gap is not necessary, but a reassessment of the timing of certain events might be. Assuming these events are still in our future has created all sorts of strange interpretations in history.
Gary talks about a recent message delivered by Pastor Jack Hibbs to California pastors about legislation being proposed in their state. Hibbs is to be commended for his political awareness and boldness and encouraging others to speak the truth, but his own eschatological views unfortunately undermine his effectiveness in the civil realm.
After a quick update of current projects, Gary discusses some Facebook craziness about weather patterns and the end times. Many people have no conception of history and what was claimed using the same Bible verses even just 10 years ago. There is nothing new under the sun, as Solomon in Ecclesiastes would put it.
Bible Prophecy Under the Microscope-Episode 53 So much of modern eschatology, especially Dispensationalism, rely on four verses (24–27) in Daniel 9 to make their system hold together. This is suspect enough, but then to make it work chronologically, they need to insert huge gaps of years. Daniel's timebound prophecy that uses "weeks of years" to indicate when the time would be near is made useless by adding a gap of thousands of years.
Gary recommends a book by Pete and Rachel Wrue called End Times Explained. Although Rachel died in March, she left us with two very helpful books that she wrote along with her husband in the area of eschatology and the end times. This book, Gary says, would make a great Bible study and a great introduction to biblical eschatology and the various views.
Get the book here: https://store.americanvision.org/products/end-times-explained-understanding-the-different-views
Gary discusses several news stories involving Charlie Kirk and Douglas Wilson. The Left is getting nervous and beginning to reveal its hand with these "red meat journalism" hit pieces. Thinking they are exposing crazy views by the Right, they are actually revealing their own insanity and illogical views. The presuppositional approach has that effect, as Greg Bahnsen showed years ago.
Watch the CNN interview with Doug Wilson here.
Bible Prophecy Under the Microscope-Episode 52 Gary discusses the popular signs spoken of in the NT that people today use to claim that the last days are upon us. All these events need to be read in light of the first century context, which Jesus says is "this generation." All of these natural phenomena were given as signs to them, not to us.
Gary plays a recent clip of Piers Morgan who claims that Jesus never talked about abortion. He challenges people to "read the red letters" of the New Testament to see if Jesus ever mentioned the topic of abortion. There are many topics that are big in our modern cultural political climate that Jesus didn't mention. Gary brings the truth and the biblical understanding to the topic.
Gary debunks the idea of the "good old days," and how people claim they want to return to them. Our memories are very selective when we think about "how things used to be." We are very quick to forget about all of the bad things that came along with the "good old days."
Bible Prophecy Under the Microscope-Episode 51 Gary answers a commenter who claims that 2 Thessalonians 2 refers to the need for a rebuilt (third) temple in our future. Regular listeners will immediately recognize the lack of first century context in the claim (when a rebuilt temple was actually standing) and basically requires all of the elements of the first century to be reinstituted and remade.
Gary responds to an interview clip from a state representative from Texas named James Talarico, who claims abortion is compatible with the Bible. Gary has discussed statements from Talarico before regarding the Ten Commandments. He is attending seminary and studying to be a pastor, but his ignorance of biblical topics is truly astounding.
Gary discusses the newest book project for American Vision. The Great Debate: Does God Exist? is at the printers and is an expanded and explained transcript of the historic 1985 debate between Dr. Gordon Stein and Dr. Greg Bahnsen. This debate is a classic of presuppositional apologetics and still stands as the ultimate example of showing that God's existence (and immaterial things :) is not only logical, it is absolutely essential.
Bible Prophecy Under the Microscope-Episode 50 Gary discusses a short video clip by John MacArthur regarding the chronology of the book of Revelation. Once again, textual time indicators are ignored in favor of pushing all the events of the book into the near (always near) future. But how can we read a book that uses words like "soon," "shortly," "quickly" and claim that it wasn't near in time for Christians that came before us?
Gary answers a question that we get often: "If so much of the New Testament is fulfilled, now what do we do?" It's a bit of a confounding question because people are essentially saying Jesus accomplishing all that He said He would isn't good enough. We live in a whole new world, one that isn't bound to the death and futility of the sacrificial system and the types and shadows of the Old Covenant.
Gary discusses the recent controversy with Chip and Joanna Gaines' new show and homosexuality. The Gaines are Christians and made the decision to have a homosexual couple on their show "Back to the Frontier" and have been receiving backlash online for it. Chip Gaines even went so far to defend the decision and chided Christians for their unwillingness to "learn."
Bible Prophecy Under the Microscope-Episode 49 Gary responds to a challenge issued to him on Facebook about the great tribulation and the "end times." The challenge-writer is convinced that we are living in the last days now, based on Israel becoming a nation again in 1948, and all of the modern "signs" of the times confirming Jesus warnings from the Olivet Discourse.
Gary revisits a topic he discussed a few months back about churches and pastors making political endorsements. It has long been believed that churches cannot even mention politics or candidates due to the threat of losing their tax-exempt status. The IRS has finally come out with a statement making the matter very clear. What excuse will churches use now?
Gary responds to a video clip of Bart Ehrman about various laws from Leviticus. Ehrman tries to equate same-sex relationships with wearing clothes of mixed fabrics because they happen to be stated near each other. His tactics are typical in the non-Christian bubble of atheists and skeptics. Gary shows how his "argument" doesn't actually hold water.
Bible Prophecy Under the Microscope-Episode 48 Gary deals with recent claims of what or who the "antichrist" is and how 666 fits in. As usual, most of these claims fail to take the first century timetable into consideration, which makes them (of course) apply everything to their own day and things they are reading or hearing on the internet.
Gary discusses a few "contradictions" commonly pointed out by critics. These textual "issues" seem to be difficult on the surface, but a bit of deeper reading makes it obvious that these "problems" with the Biblical text are not really problems at all. Christians must read in order to understand, and recognize that differences in how things are reported in the Bible are theologically significant and add depth and layers to the text as a whole.
Gary comments on several news items, including a real head-scratcher where some liberals want to say babies in the womb are citizens, despite the fact that they will argue in other situations that the "fetus" is not actually a human baby. Apparently the mother's intention is what creates or negates the humanity of what's in her womb.
Bible Prophecy Under the Microscope-Episode 47 Gary responds to a recent video by end-times speculator Jonathan Cahn about how we are "watching prophecy unfold before our eyes." This parlor trick is very old and has been used thousands of times by many other end-times alarmists. Listeners must be aware that none of this is new, and the current news cycle does not determine what the Bible means or how we do exegesis.
Gary answers email questions that he has received recently about Romans 11 and what "all Israel" being saved means. The most influential and popular view is Dispensationalism and its understanding of this passage is to split it off and push it far into the future. This doesn't work exegetically or contextually, where Paul is talking about his own present day.
Gary answers a listener question about the parenthetical statement in the Gospels about "letting the reader understand." Other similar instances are also found in other areas of the NT. Were these something that was said originally, or were they added by the author as a clue to how to interpret the context?
Bible Prophecy Under the Microscope-Episode 46 Gary discusses how to read the book of Revelation. Christians too often fail to take the context of the first century into consideration when reading Revelation and instead interpret it based on events in their own time. But how would the original audience and readers have understood and interpreted the letter based on what they had available to them soon after Jesus' ascension in the days of the early church?
Gary discusses a few "things in the news" and gives his unique spin on them. He mentions that in addition to the usual nonsense happening, there are also signs that things are slowly changing. The support for Pride Week is at an all-time low, and many businesses are shutting down funding for this and other DEI initiatives.
Gary discusses Islam, the Gospel, and the recent "interview" of Ted Cruz by Tucker Carlson. Cruz supports Israel because he says "the Bible commands it." But is this true? Do Christians have a scriptural obligation to support Israel (financially, politically, and militarily) regardless of their reasons for going to war with the countries around them?
Bible Prophecy Under the Microscope-Episode 45 Gary answers a very often-asked question these days about Israel's role in the biblical "end times." It will come as no surprise to any regular listener, but Gary explains why modern-day Israel does not have any prophetic significance, including their current "wars and rumors of wars."
Gary discusses two recent writings: one a book by Andrew Klavan and the other an article in World Magazine. Both deal with the question often asked by Dr. Gary North: "What is the proper response?" The Bible has the answers to today's moral dilemmas, but too often people believe that modern issues require modern solutions. The Bible deals with human life as it is, not in an idealized way. For this reason, its "ancient" answers are exactly what we need.
Gary responds to comments from critics on Facebook to his recent article about Acts 24:15 and the Greek word mello. The point of the debate is getting somewhat lost, but Gary shows (again) that some of the original Three Questions letter signers teach the very same thing that Gary is saying about Acts 24:15 and mello (about to be).
Bible Prophecy Under the Microscope-Episode 44 Gary discusses Bible prophecy and timing. Making predictions about the future is easy if the events are hundreds or thousands of years in the future. There is no way to verify the veracity of the "prophet," which means there's no way to enforce Deuteronomy 13 & 18 and the test of the prophet. The NT is very clear that the events it is speaking about are "soon" to take place.
Gary discusses a recent interview with entrepreneur Peter Thiel about particular views he has about Christianity. Thiel claims to be a Christian, but has some contradictory views to the Bible, as well as some strange ideas about eschatology. While the Bible can inform modern ideas and cultural movements, it is primarily relating real events, not high-level philosophies.
Gary responds to a critic accusing him of nefarious Bible study tactics, including "cherry picking" select commentaries and tools. While "cherry-picking" does indeed sound bad and something one should never do, the question must be asked: How else would you do it? If we cannot select sources that help bolster our own views or reveal the weakness of opposing views for fear of being a "cherry-picker," how then should we do scholarship?
Bible Prophecy Under the Microscope-Episode 43 Gary responds to a recent article that presents a tired old argument that a rebuilt temple in Jerusalem is going to happen soon. The Bible speaks about Jesus being the fulfillment of all the requirements of the OT, not remaking everything, which would be an abomination to the finished work of Jesus Christ.
Gary discusses a recent article responding to one of his articles about the Greek word mello. Luke, the author of Acts, uses this word often throughout his history of the Apostles and the Early Church. Most places it's used it means "about to be," but there's some dispute about what it means in several places, especially in Paul's trials near the end of the book.
Gary comments on several recent news items, hoping to bring a bit of sanity (and biblical worldview) to the cultural craziness. The Catholic Church, SPLC, Charlie Kirk, transgenderism, and track and field all get a bit of analysis from Gary. He even closes the episode with a bit of health advice. It has something for everyone!
Bible Prophecy Under the Microscope-Episode 42 Gary concludes his response to John Piper's book, Come, Lord Jesus. Time statements, context, and other books of the Bible help us to understand what words and phrases in the Bible actually mean. We also need to be careful that we are interpreting biblical words in light of how an ancient audience would understand it, not how a 21st century audience does.
Gary responds to a listener from Australia that wonders about how certain Greek words are translated in the new Legacy Standard Bible. Presuppositions, especially eschatological ones, are powerful and affect how translators interpret Greek words, which in turn influences their translation efforts.
Gary discusses the inconsistent application of religion and politics between the two American political parties. Churches and pastors MUST be involved not only in biblical studies, but in the application of such studies, including in politics. All biblical worldview issues have real-world application, which is the actual reason for teaching the biblical issues in the first place.
Bible Prophecy Under the Microscope-Episode 41 Gary continues his review of John Piper's book, Come, Lord Jesus. Pastor Piper discusses the actual language used by Jesus in the NT, but still argues that Jesus' words didn't actually mean what they appear to mean. Jesus promised He would come before that generation in the first century died, but Pastor Piper disagrees.
Gary discusses the newest media darling, Steven Hasan, and his BITE model of determining "cult" behavior. Far from being useful, Hasan's model could be used to define nearly any group as a "cult." Businesses, clubs, schools, churches, and even families could be defined as "cults" according to Hasan's methodology, and now even the FBI has jumped on board.
Gary discusses recent discussions he's had with people regarding eschatology and creedal authority. It seems that every theological topic of debate can be settled with Bible verses, except eschatology and especially ones about the "Three Questions." The arguments that most of Gary's critics make are circular and based on certain assumptions that aren't actually biblical.
Bible Prophecy Under the Microscope-Episode 40 Gary begins reviewing John Piper's book, Come Lord Jesus. Most Christians haven't even thought about what it means that Jesus "comes," and definitely not in the context of many references to God "coming" in the Old Testament. This is very important and necessary to defining the entire "end time" framework.
Gary brings some "Memes of the Week" to discuss the current "outrage" from leftist opportunists. Some are claiming to be "offended" by a meme that shows Trump in popish attire. It is typical of these people to suddenly get religious when it suits their agenda, however much their claims are contradicted by what they say and do elsewhere.
Gary responds to an article written by a Vanderbilt professor that uses outdated information to make her argument. The professor quotes from Dr. Bruce Waltke in a 1968 Christianity Today article about abortion (Dr. Waltke has since changed his view) to dismiss Christians opposed to climate change. If it sounds ridiculous and confusing, it's because it is. But it's the state of modern "scholarship."
Download Gary's written response here: https://americanvision.org/images/uploads/abortion-biblical-law-and-the-civil-magistrate_final.pdf
Bible Prophecy Under the Microscope-Episode 39 Rick Welch takes over the Gary DeMar Podcast and interviews Kirk Cameron. Kirk has been very active lately in helping to promote American history, family values, and an optimistic world-and-life-view. Formerly known as a teen actor and "the Left Behind Guy," Kirk details some of the influences that have helped inform and guide his current work.
Gary comments on a recent speech by Illinois Governor J. B. Pritzker. The governor uses inflammatory rhetoric to disparage (and warn it seems) Republicans about potential reprisals if they continue on their current path. He also refers to those who support President Trump as "quislings" that will not be tolerated.
Gary has been around long enough that what he has written 30 years ago is now current again. Christian Reconstructionism was a movement that bothered a lot of people in the 1980s and 90s and today the boogeyman is Christian Nationalism. The arguments against both are nearly the same, even though Reconstruction and Nationalism aren't the same. What they actually have in common is bad and unbiblical critiques by authors who should know better.
Read the article Gary is responding to here: https://www.christianpost.com/voices/the-rise-of-coerced-cultural-christianity-a-disturbing-trend.html
Bible Prophecy Under the Microscope-Episode 38 Gary sits down with his friend Robert Cruickshank at the recent Berean Bible Conference. The two answer a listener question about Revelation 20, which is a very difficult chapter. However, as Gary points out, nearly every eschatological "system" assumes this chapter says much more than it actually does. Gary and Bob try to keep it real and biblical.
Back for a third time, Gary highlights a few of his favorite "Memes of the Week." He discusses track and field, transgenderism, abortion, atheism, presuppositionalism, and much more. There's always much to learn when Gary is selecting the memes.
Gary compares the two approaches to funding between Hillsdale College and Harvard. Despite having an enormous endowment of billions of dollars, Harvard still takes a large amount of tax money every year. Hillsdale takes none, not even indirectly. The school saw the trap of federal money from early on. So many colleges in the country are dependent on government money yet still have high tuition and less control over their product.
Bible Prophecy Under the Microscope-Episode 37 Gary discusses common misunderstandings of Bible prophecy based on over-literal interpretations and misreadings of the Old Testament. The New Testament is the best commentary on the OT, but the OT also helps us better understand the NT. We can't selectively claim that certain parts of the OT are still future just because we don't like the fulfillment.
After discussing an issue that caused his Facebook page to be eliminated, Gary discusses the craziness coming from leftist Democrats about Jesus and immigration. One thing that you can always count on around Easter is that both sides of the political divide will attempt to make Jesus fit their own narrative and claim His support of their agenda.
Christianity is a future-oriented worldview. Who inherits what we leave behind? How does our view of the future affect our attitude towards the future? God is the Author of the past, the present, and the future. He owns everything, including time. Does it matter if we live fearfully or hopefully? Very much so, as Gary points out in this important talk from several years ago
Bible Prophecy Under the Microscope-Episode 36 Gary discusses the fact that ALL Christians are preterists, at least to some degree. If you believe the birth, life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ is a historical fact—you are a preterist. Even unbelievers cannot deny that these events—whether they believe they happened or not—have changed the course of world history. In other words, Jesus Christ has changed the world forever, according to the Scriptures.
Gary concludes his response to a recent video discussion about his eschatological views. The host references a book that refers to the creeds and confessions as "guardrails" that keep biblical exegesis within the "bounds" of orthodoxy. In reality, they are elevating the creeds (at least the ones they recognize as authoritative) above what the Bible actually says.
Many religious cults claim to believe the Bible and biblical inerrancy. A recent video discussion that included Sam Frost and Andrew Sandlin raised the question about how Gary would answer cults using only the Bible. Their claim seems to be that creeds and confessions are necessary to defend a proper biblical interpretation, but Gary disagrees.
Bible Prophecy Under the Microscope-Episode 35 Gary gives an overview of the book of Revelation and helps readers to put the confusing book into perspective. Context is important and the timing of the events mentioned in the last book of the Bible must be taken into consideration. Internal clues about when it was written also need to be factored in.
It's now official! Gary brings back his segment "Memes of the Week" making it a regular feature of the podcast (or least one that has recurred). Meme creators find interesting ways to communicate complicated topics in (often) humorous ways. Gary highlights a few of his most recent favorites.
Gary responds to recent criticism that resurrects the "Three Questions Controversy" from 2023 and accuses Gary of promoting "full preterism." While the tactics of the accusers remain the same, the exegetical proof that Gary has been demanding (not just pointing to a creed) remains missing. The critics do not even agree among themselves and continually hide behind creedal statements, yet refuse to interact with the biblical time statements.
Bible Prophecy Under the Microscope-Episode 34Gary responds to a video that critiques a preterist interpretation of Matthew 24. The critique gives the impression that 1) a preterist interpretation is "new" (it's not); and 2) that it's not biblical (it is). Gary gives many biblical reasons why a preterist interpretation makes the best sense of the context and the timing of Jesus' Olivet Discourse in Matthew 24.
Gary continues his conversation with Kevin Barber about technology and artificial intelligence. Kevin reveals a tool he made for American Vision, which can be found at www.AmericanVision.ai. Using open source AI software, Kevin created a chatbot that learned to think using only Gary DeMar books and it is ready and waiting to answer all your Bible prophecy and eschatology questions right now.
Gary has a fascinating conversation with business owner and technology leader, Kevin Barber. Artificial Intelligence (AI) has been a dominant topic in the news for the last several years, especially with the leaps in computer advancement and processing power. AI is not as bad as you've heard and it's not as good as you've heard. Kevin explains that it's simply a "tool," but a tool with the ability to change the world, for better and for worse. Christians must be informed about AI and be ready to use it to the glory of God.
Bible Prophecy Under the Microscope-Episode 33 Gary riffs on a short clip from an individual trying to explain away the meaning of the word "soon." Context always determines what words actually mean, not what we want them to mean. Although "soon" can have various meanings about how close an event may be, it is always clarified by what surrounds it. This podcast will begin as "soon" as you push play...
One of the problems with today’s movies and films is the lack of creativity. Modern filmmakers don’t have to worry much about constraints on their content, but real creativity needs these constraints. Cool Hand Luke is more than half a century old but it is a great example of excellent storytelling. While it is not a Christian movie in any sense, it uses a lot of Christian symbology to tell its tale. Christians need to re-learn how to interpret art through a Christian worldview. Cool Hand Luke is a good place to begin.
Gary discusses revolutionary practices of the Left (like firebombing Teslas) and how nothing has changed in their tactics (the very ones they claim to fear from the Right). Christians, like others, are called to be revolutionaries, but unlike others, they have a divine example of being non-violent in advancing their revolutionary faith.
Bible Prophecy Under the Microscope-32 Gary reviews a new book by Dr. Sam Waldron about eschatology called The Doctrine of Last Things. Waldon basically follows John Murray's amillennialism and doesn't really deal with much of the material that presents a different view. While Dr. Waldron offers his views on preterism, he doesn't actually interact with any of their writings and dismisses it as a Catholic heresy.
Gary discusses the work of American Vision and runs through some history of theological debates over the last half-century. AV has been on the frontlines of biblical truth for 45 years and continues to do so with books, videos, web articles, podcasts, and much more. Please consider joining us and help to continue AV's impact in 2025 with a donation matching grant during March.
Gary answers a listener question about the word "church" and how it is used by the Bible and interpreters over the years. Is God "doing something new" in the New Testament, or is He fulfilling exactly what He promised in the Old Testament? Was God's plan for His people changed when they rejected Jesus as their Messiah?
Bible Prophecy Under the Microscope-Episode 31 Gary responds to a short audio clip from a pastor who claims we're currently in the great tribulation and that Donald Trump is the end-times bad guy called the Antichrist. Gary refutes both of these claims with biblical exegesis, historical reminders, and common sense.
Gary comments on some popular examples of internet wisdom in the forms of memes. Some of the most illogical and ridiculous ideas are presented by people in the form of memes and Gary can't resist pointing out the nonsense being displayed. He has also decided that this will become a semi-regular segment on the podcast so be on the lookout for more to come.
Gary comments on a recent article by Pastor Kevin DeYoung about pastors becoming "political pundits." While it is true that many pastors simply comment on politics without making any reference to the Bible, our current situation is most certainly a biblical issue. Staying out of politics is not the correct response; bringing the Bible to bear on politics and culture is.
Bible Prophecy Under the Microscope-Episode 30There are many signs mentioned throughout the NT by Jesus and others that are said to come during the "last days." Many writers and prophetic speculators have claimed that these signs are happening all around us today. Unfortunately for them, the context for these biblical signs was "soon," as in soon when the NT was written—that is, in the first century AD.
Gary discusses more recent craziness coming from politicians and celebrities about transgenderism and sports. Proving that they are completely out of touch with the vast majority of Americans, these people are saying downright crazy stuff... and then repeating it. It's no longer forgivable as "political" speech; it is just pure insanity.
Gary discusses several recent examples about people believing absurd things just because of something they saw online. AI is only as good as the database it searches, and if errors exist in the data, the answers the AI gives will always be wrong. People need to learn to be discerning and check information out before repeating it.
Bible Prophecy Under the Microscope-Episode 29 In this conclusion to his talk from a few years back at a conference in Nashville, Gary gives a quick hermeneutics lesson using Matthew 24. We must use the Bible to interpret the Bible and not overlook details like timing and locations. We cannot reinterpret these as relevant to our own day and still claim we are being faithful to the text as written.
Gary discusses a recent comment by late night host Stephen Colbert about Christians helping the poor. Colbert, not surprisingly, is terribly uninformed on how much the Church has done for the poor for thousands of years. In fact, until big government stepped into to "help," the Church was about the only organization doing it.
Gary interacts with recent claims that outbreaks of peace in the world have significance for Bible prophecy. Generally, most modern prophecy pundits point out all the talks of war as being signs of the end times, but now we must also be suspect of peace talks. Gary brings sanity to the discussions of both war and peace.
Bible Prophecy Under the Microscope-Episode 28 In this talk given a few years back at a conference in Nashville, Gary introduces the topic of Bible prophecy and why it is important. Most Christians never challenge their view of the future and end up believing all sorts of strange "winds of doctrine" and get "tossed back and forth by the waves" (Ephesians 4:14).
Gary answers a listener question about the supposed historical fact that Antipas (mentioned in Revelation 2:13) was martyred in the mid-90s AD under Domitian. If true, this would mean the book of Revelation was written after the destruction of the city and the temple in AD 70. Preterists maintain that the book was written during Nero's reign in the mid-60s AD. So which view is correct and why does it matter?
Gary talks about the trend among young people where Bible sales are increasing and they are obviously looking for some sort of purpose. There is a sense where every generation rejects the views of the parents, but it also runs deeper. People say they are looking for their "true self" but how will they know when they've actually found it?
Bible Prophecy Under the Microscope-Episode 27 Gary discusses new "research" that has now determined and revealed China's role in Bible prophecy. With the publication of each day's news, prophecy speculators are writing blogs and releasing videos that reinterpret the previous day's speculations and surefire "end time" predictions.
Gary discusses DOGE and USAID and government overspending in general. Just as most people manage their own household budgets and spending, so is the Federal Government responsible not to spend money it does not have. An ignored requirement from Article 1, Section 9 of the Constitution is an accounting of where money is being spent.
Read Gary's DOGE article here: https://americanvision.org/posts/the-question-doge-should-be-asking/
Gary discusses recent articles about immigration and birth rates. So called anti-natalists put the welfare of the planet over the welfare of humanity, but they are seldom willing to rid the planet of themselves first. Gary calls materialistic "science" into the argument to point out the hypocrisy.
Get Gary's book, Why It Might Be OK to Eat Your Neighbor, here: https://store.americanvision.org/products/why-it-might-be-ok-to-eat-your-neighbor-book
Bible Prophecy Under the Microscope-Episode 26 No matter what happens in the Middle East—good, bad, or indifferent—it is claimed to be a fulfillment of Bible prophecy. Gary discusses current claims about the prophetic importance and significance about what's happening in Gaza. Once again, these claims are shown to be lacking biblical proof and are nothing more than sensational attention grabs.
Gary runs over a few recent news stories and how the media is struggling to keep up with everything happening. Gary puts his unique spin and view on the topics and reminds listeners that politicians, while important, are not the answer to solving everything. Christians need to stay involved and informed.
Gary responds to a recent article by Ken Gentry that called Gary out for his views on eschatology. Gary's point has consistently been that a real exchange needs to happen between different views regarding certain elements of Bible prophecy that some (like Ken Gentry) insist have been "settled." The same hermeneutic that informs partial preterism is being used by others to defend consistent, or full, preterism.
Bible Prophecy Under the Microscope-Episode 25 Gary answers a listener question about progressive dispensationalism about how it "differs" from the popular dispensationalism that informs the majority of end-time bestsellers sold in the last 50 years. Gary argues the progressive part of it was made necessary by the many failed prophecies of the popular interpretations.
Gary discusses the current state of the country now that President Trump has taken office. Many of the things Trump is doing in his first week in office are positive and following through on campaign promises, but some are still nitpicking his every move. Gary tries to bring some historicity, rationality, and biblical worldview to the situation.
Gary discusses several recent (and not so recent) instances of individuals leaving the Christian faith after being in it for some time. Sometimes these deconversions are called "deconstructions" and Gary highlights some examples of these and what his views are on them.
Bible Prophecy Under the Microscope-Episode 24 Gary responds to several critics on Facebook that disagree with his interpretation of Bible prophecy. Gary gives two points of advice before jumping into a debate: 1) know what your own position actually teaches, and 2) know what your opponent's position actually teaches.
Gary explains the interaction he had on Facebook with a former pastor who has since deconverted. Alan Bondar now claims to be an atheist and even wrote a book called "How to Kill God the Easy Way" (presumably those without the book are stuck with the "hard way"). Gary ties his discussion with Bondar into the classic debate between Dr. Greg Bahnsen and Dr. Gordon Stein.
Gary discusses the recent funeral for former President Jimmy Carter. Garth Brooks and Tricia Yearwood sang John Lennon's song "Imagine" at the funeral at Carter's request. Gary gives some little known background information about Lennon and how he actually grew to become "embarrassed" by the words to his famous song.
Bible Prophecy Under the Microscope-Episode 23 Gary discusses Genesis 6 and the whole "sons of God" controversy and how it gets tied in with Bible prophecy. There is an endless amount of speculation that comes from these four verses in Genesis and entire worldviews are built on it, often including UFOs and aliens.
Gary mentions five encouraging signs that he has seen recently about the state of the culture. While most of them aren't the signs that most Christians would be looking for, they each show that foundational beliefs are changing in a major way. Christians need to be informed and aware of what's happening and always ready to bring the salt and light of the Gospel and a biblical worldview every area of life.
Gary discusses two new books now available from American Vision, Gary's North's Victim's Rights and Gary DeMar's newest book Prophecy Wars. These two have more in common than might be apparent to many, but both are essentially apologetic works about controversial topics about the Bible.
Bible Prophecy Under the Microscope-Episode 22 Gary discusses a popular interpretation of Matthew 24 that assumes a split in time in what Jesus is explaining to His disciples. Gary doesn't agree and shows how it can't be possible, especially when looking at the parallel passage in Luke's gospel and his description of the same events.
See the chart that compares Matthew 24 and Luke 17 here: https://americanvision.org/images/uploads/luke-17_mathew-24-chart.pdf
In this continuation of his first lecture given to a high school class, Gary points out that religion will always exist in society. If the biblical God is not recognized in a culture, something else will always take His place. Even atheism is a religion, despite the denials of its adherents.
Gary continues his discussion about how we should respond to the grievance merchants in modern society. The Bible deals directly with this issue and gives a lot of guidance about what the proper response should be to tyranny and social injustice. Listen to Part One here.
Get the R.J. Rushdoony article here: https://murraymoerman.com/3downloads/books/R.J.Rushdoony-The-Religion-of-Revolution.pdf
Bible Prophecy Under the Microscope-Episode 21It can be surprising the lack of understanding most pastors have about Bible prophecy. Congregants assume their pastor to be an expert when it comes to biblical issues, but this is actually seldom the case. This is not meant to demean pastors, but to reveal how many other responsibilities most pastors have on their to-do list. The popular view on Bible prophecy becomes a self-fulfilling prophecy in how it gets taught and promoted.
A great way to start the new year! We must always begin with first principles in any debate. In this episode, Gary teaches students how to think about their own assumptions and foundations and why they believe what they claim to believe. Facts are important, but worldview precedes facts and interprets the facts.
Gary begins addressing the recent murder of the United Healthcare CEO and how to properly address grievances anyone may have with either an individual or a major social wrong. Long before Luigi Mangione, there was Paul Hill. Gary North wrote letters to Paul Hill after he killed an abortion doctor which are collected in Lone Gunners for Jesus.
Get Lone Gunners for Jesus here: https://store.americanvision.org/products/lone-gunners-for-jesus
Bible Prophecy Under the Microscope-Episode 20 Gary discusses one of Hal Lindsey's lesser-known books called The Road to Holocaust. In it, Lindsey accuses what he calls "Dominion Theology" of denying the "clear teaching of prophecy" as well as promoting antisemitism (a claim still being made today). The book led Gary and Peter Leithart to respond with a small book called The Legacy of Hatred Continues.
Get The Legacy of Hatred Continues and the notes from this episode here: https://store.americanvision.org/products/the-legacy-of-hatred-continues
Too much time and money, we hear, are spent on the public side of Christmas — the hustle and bustle of shopping, the lavish decorations, and the often insincere displays of seasonal piety. Meanwhile, the true spirit of Christmas gets left behind. Some even argue that all public displays of Christmas are inappropriate.
Read the article on the American Vision website: https://americanvision.org/posts/let-s-keep-christmas-commercialized/
Gary continues speaking with Rick Welch of The Burros of Berea podcast about Christmas movies. Gary gives a lot of background information about several more films, including Die Hard, Home Alone, and The Three Godfathers. These older films are often dismissed as being "out of touch," but Gary shows that this is far from the truth. They are great lessons about both life and history (among other topics).
Get A Christmas Carol audiobook here: https://store.americanvision.org/products/a-christmas-carol-unabridged-audiobook
Bible Prophecy Under the Microscope-Episode 19 Gary deals with current end-time claims about the situation in Damascus. Assad's fall in Syria has nothing to do with Bible prophecy and is not a sign of "things to come." The same several Bible verses have been applied to countless current events in the past and all have failed to come to pass.
Gary is interviewed by Rick Welch of The Burros of Berea podcast about old Christmas movies. Gary gives a lot of background information about the two films discussed in this first part (Beyond Christmas and It's a Wonderful Life). These older films can often be dismissed as "out of touch," but Gary shows that this is far from the truth. They are great lessons about both life and history (among other topics).
Read Dr. Gary North's article about the economics of It's a Wonderful Life here: https://www.garynorth.com/public/18499.cfm
Christians can’t live in this world without also being involved in this world. We are told often that "this is not our home," which in an ultimate sense is true, but it is our home now. We live here, we raise families here, we live and move and have our being here. Denying any responsibility and obligation to influence this world with the full effects of the Gospel is not a true biblical outlook. The Bible applies to every area of life but it requires wisdom and discernment. Christians must re-learn how to think biblically. Gary points the way forward in this talk given in McAllen, Texas a few years ago.
Gary interviews Kim Burgess about 1 Thessalonians 4 and the cryptic language that Paul uses. This is often used as a passage to prove the Rapture of the Church, but Kim has a very different view of this passage, informed by the rest of Scripture. The "analogy of faith" teaches that we allow the clear passages of the Bible to interpret the unclear, and this passage is a great example of how the analogy of faith should be practiced.
Get the supplementary PDF here: https://store.americanvision.org/products/1-thessalonians-4-under-the-microscope
Ever since American Vision republished Christian Life and Character, the ignorance of objectors to the book has been swift and loud. Gary discusses some of the common objections to how Christianity has influenced American civil government and sets the historical record straight.
Gary discusses an article by Daniel Hummel about how concordances made Dispensationalism—and a "scientific" approach to Bible reading—possible. We take many of our modern study tools for granted, but each new help has brought with it challenges and unintended consequences to how we read and interpret Scripture.
NOTE: This episode was recorded in 2022 before Daniel Hummel's book, The Rise and Fall of Dispensationalism, was released. You can get a copy here: https://store.americanvision.org/products/the-rise-and-fall-of-dispensationalism
Read Daniel Hummel's article on concordances here: https://www.christianitytoday.com/2022/11/concordance-context-bible-reading-dispensationalism-literal/
Bible Prophecy Under the Microscope-Episode 17 With the recent death of Hal Lindsey, Gary discusses his popular books and the rapture and end times that they promised yet never arrived. Scores of authors and pastors have been influenced by Lindsey's books and prophetic system, but the words they use are as elastic as the timeframes they propose about events which the Bible says were "near" in the first century AD.
Now that the two volumes of The Hope of Israel and the Nations are available, Gary thought it was a good time to interview Kim Burgess about the books and the hermeneutic they present. For those not familiar with the original podcast series, Covenant Hermeneutics and Biblical Eschatology, this episode will serve as an introduction to both the books and the 25-part series.
Gary is interviewed by Marlin Detweiler from Veritas Press about recent books he has written, American history, and how to teach and live the Christian worldview. Veritas has been a leader in Classical Education and Homeschooling for years and Gary has known Marlin for decades. The two have a great discussion about many different topics.
Bible Prophecy Under the Microscope-Episode 16 In this conclusion to his interview with author Brian Godawa, Gary answers a question about so-called double fulfillment. Many modern Christian teachers will admit that prophecies in the NT were fulfilled in AD 70, but claim that they still await a "final" fulfillment in the future. Is this correct? How do we know?
Get Gary's Matthew 24 PDF here: https://store.americanvision.org/products/free-pdf-matthew-16-and-matthew-24-study-outlines
Gary interviews author Brian Godawa about his new book, Israel in Bible Prophecy: The New Testament Fulfillment of the Promise to Abraham. Like Gary, Brian believes that Israel's modern role on the world stage has no significance to Bible prophecy and the "end times." Too many Christians blindly support everything Israel says and does because of this belief. As Brian puts it: "Anti-Zionist does not mean Anti-Semitic."
Get Brian's book here: https://www.amazon.com/Israel-Bible-Prophecy-Testament-Fulfillment-ebook/dp/B06X977S2C/
Gary comments on a recent sermon by John Piper about the 2024 Election and Trump being "evil." Piper said that while he wanted people to vote, he was unhappy with the candidates. Gary agrees, but is more practical about how to approach this issue. Change takes time and not everything can be changed from without the system; some changes require working from within.
Here's the article referred to in this episode: https://harbingersdaily.com/calling-the-election-of-trump-evil-john-piper-reminds-christians-why-hes-not-trusted/
Bible Prophecy Under the Microscope-Episode 15 Gary discusses biblical context and its importance to interpreting all Bible passages, but especially prophetic ones. Most Christians cherry-pick verses to fit their end-times system, rather than reading entire passages in the context in which they were written.
Gary is interviewed about biblical hermeneutics (the art and science of interpretation). He continues his lesson with discussions about time statements and the book of Revelation. Most Christians have never been taught these things and while it takes work and patience, there are many free online tools available that can help make the process easier.
NOTE: The host's audio is very bad and used very sparingly. Gary does most of the speaking.
Gary is interviewed about biblical hermeneutics (the art and science of interpretation). He gives a quick lesson about how regular Christians can and should do it for themselves. Most Christians are never taught how to read the Bible for themselves and are left to accept what others tell them it means.
NOTE: The host's audio is very bad and used very sparingly. Gary does most of the speaking.
Bible Prophecy Under the Microscope-Episode 14 Gary discusses the history of failed "end times" and "last days" predictions. While many have made bold claims about the future, they have all been proven wrong. These false prophets have a long, long history of failure, but it never seems to cause Christians to: 1) question these repeated claims, and 2) seek out a more consistently biblical hermeneutic.
The Hal Lindsey "Hero or Bum" article is here: https://americanvision.org/images/uploads/lindsey-hero-or-bum-ct.png
Gary continues his interview with Gordon Van Wechel with Alchemy Precious Metals. In this second part, Gordon discusses the worldwide demand for precious metals and how countries like China and India are influencing prices. Gold and silver also have industrial uses, which keeps their value high outside of government interventions like the Federal Reserve. (Part Two of Two)
Check out Gordon's website here: https://alchemypreciousmetals.com/
Gary interviews Gordon Van Wechel with Alchemy Precious Metals. Gordon is an expert in gold and silver trading and discusses why holding precious metals as part of your long-term investing strategy is important. (Part One of Two)
Check out Gordon's website here: https://alchemypreciousmetals.com/
Bible Prophecy Under the Microscope-Episode 13 Gary discusses a popular interpretation by modern prophecy writers and pastors about Israel being the "fig tree" spoken of by Jesus in the NT. Usually, it is interpreted as Israel "becoming a nation again" in 1948. Unfortunately for them, the math, the biblical data, and Jesus' own words do not confirm this strained interpretation.
Get Gary's book here: https://store.americanvision.org/products/the-rapture-and-the-fig-tree-generation
Gary gives his thoughts on the results from Tuesday's election and Trump's win of both the electoral and the popular vote.
Two huge topics that defined the Harris/Walz platform were taxing rich people and the right to abortion. Gary points out how both of these are misrepresented to appeal to uninformed voters. Emotional appeals, even from Billy Graham's granddaughter, are used to divert people from the real truth of every matter.
Get Gary's paper on The Bible and Abortion here: https://americanvision.org/images/uploads/abortion-biblical-law-and-the-civil-magistrate.pdf
Many Christians are saying that they won't vote because neither candidate appeals to them. Not voting is still a vote, and these same Christians will have to live in the world that results from whichever candidate wins. Both political parties are using their constituents and this is a problem. Things need to be done, but ignoring the problem is not a viable solution.
Officer Deon Joseph video here: https://fb.watch/vCmC0hTSmF/
Gary's article here: https://americanvision.org/24584/christians-politics-and-the-upcoming-election/
Bible Prophecy Under the Microscope-Episode 12 Gary does a short Bible study with his granddaughter, who had a few questions about Mark 13 and Jesus' coming. Are there two comings mentioned in this chapter (the Olivet Discourse) and if so, how do we know what verses apply to which coming?
Gary discusses a few of the nonsensical claims being trotted out by leftists about the election. It's difficult to take any of it seriously, and yet it's all being said with a straight face. It's a reminder that Christians MUST be involved if only to keep things somewhat rational.
Gary interviews author Mike D'Virgilio about his book, Going Back To Find the Way Forward. Mike has a lot in common with Gary and has learned very practical ways to get involved to make a difference far beyond simply voting and complaining (as many conservatives seem to hope will make a difference).
Get Mike's book here: https://www.amazon.com/Going-Back-Find-Way-Forward/dp/1961093464
Bible Prophecy Under the Microscope-Episode 11 Gary gives a quick lesson on how to do biblical hermeneutics, which simply means how interpret the text. Most Christians are never taught how to read the Bible for themselves or how to use basic Bible tools. This is unfortunate and usually means Christians must depend on others to tell them what the Bible says.
Get the free PDF here: https://americanvision.org/images/uploads/putting-it-all-together-microscope11.pdf
Get Gary's short course on hermeneutics here: https://store.americanvision.org/products/beginners-guide-interpreting-bible-prophecy
Gary discusses a few recent news items about the political hot-potato of abortion, or more accurately, the murder of pre-born children. Ted Cruz, Donald Trump, and other Republicans have trouble answering questions about this topic due to their own political compromise with it. Kamala Harris' recent interview with supposed shock-jock and free-thinker Howard Stern is the ultimate example of the lack of logic being presented by abortion advocates.
One from the archives, almost exactly three years ago. The more things change, they more they don't. Political liberals are more than willing to use every means necessary to get their message out, even breaking tax laws. Conservatives and Christians seldom have this boldness. In fact, many Christians don't even see the reason to be involved. The Apostle Paul would not agree.
Bible Prophecy Under the Microscope-Episode 10 Many modern preachers and authors are schizophrenic. On one hand they sensationalize current events as being part of the "end times" and yet also highlight how Christians must be involved culturally and politically. They don't seem to understand that these messages are contradictory and often cause their hearers to become paralyzed with indecision.
Get the free PDF here: https://americanvision.org/images/uploads/bhowse-propheticschizophrenia.pdf
Picking up with Gary's interview with the Resistance Chicks from a few months back, this third part deals with Dispensationalism and how it influences both eschatology and politics. A major problem with the paradigm is how it separates God's future plans into two, with one for the Jews and another for the Church.
Gary gives a quick update on the recent donation matching challenge, and then discusses a listener question about his research methods. Gary has been doing this a long time (which helps of course), but he also points out that making mental connections between things that interest you is a helpful way to learn and remember new things.
Bible Prophecy Under the Microscope-Episode 9. Many Bible commentators claim that Matthew 24—Jesus' Olivet Discourse—should be divided between verses that apply to events in AD70 and verses that apply to the distant future. Gary puts this popular hermeneutic under the exegetical microscope to see if it stands up under scrutiny.
Volume 2 of Kim Burgess and Gary DeMar's The Hope of Israel and the Nations is now available! Gary discusses the book, the series, and what Kim calls the "meta-hermeneutic" of the New Testament (p. 13). Why did Paul write letters and Luke write "historical documents?" Each writing had a particular motivation behind it and we must take this into consideration when interpreting them.
Get Volume 2 here: https://store.americanvision.org/products/the-hope-of-israel-and-the-nations-volume-2
After giving a quick reminder about the historical reality of hurricanes and flooding (not making them proof of either Bible prophecy or climate change), Gary interacts with a recent clip from Charlie Kirk. A questioner asks Kirk about "common law" and America's founding, and Charlie's response is impressive and very much in line with what Gary and American Vision have taught for decades.
Get Gary's book The Case for America's Christian Heritage here: https://store.americanvision.org/products/case-for-americas-christian-heritage
Bible Prophecy Under the Microscope-Episode 8. Gary discusses the idea put forth by nearly all modern pop prophecy writers that Israel becoming a nation again in 1948 is a "major prophetic sign" of the "end times." There is no verse for this supposed hermeneutical key, but this doesn't stop authors and preachers from continually repeating it. Let's be Bereans and "see if this is so."
Gary concludes his talk about Christian worldview. While most Christians stand by and do nothing, the other side is working feverishly to implement their godless, humanistic, destructive worldview. Watching from the sidelines is not an option. Which worldview will ultimately prevail? Are you cooking the goose of the anti-Christians or are they cooking yours? Part Two of Two.
You can also download this lecture for free here.
In this classic talk given at a Christian home-educators conference, Gary explains why a Christian worldview is so critical and important. Having all the right answers does not equip Christians to deal with today's ever-changing world. The enemy never stops reinterpreting and twisting Truth to suit their own sinful desires. Answering their moving target requires a worldview "grid." This is Part One of Two.
You can also download this lecture for free here.
Bible Prophecy Under the Microscope-Episode 7. Gary deals with Max Lucado's new book, What Happens Next: A Traveler's Guide Through the End of This Age. Nothing Lucado writes is new or different from what has already been written hundreds of times by a multitude of other authors over the last two or three decades.
Click here to get a free PDF study guide for this episode.
Gary concludes his interview with Brett Prieto about worldviews and morality. As he always does, Gary brings in pop culture and television and movies to help make his point about the need for an authoritative standard (a Lawgiver) in order to define right and wrong. Many claim to be moral and ethical without any actual basis for it.
This is part one of an interview by Brett Prieto about Gary's book, Why It Might Be OK to Eat Your Neighbor. Gary points out the impossibility of a materialist worldview to define things like love or morality. Most atheists don't even realize the problem that they are "borrowing" morality from the Christian worldview in order to prop up their own lack of one.
Gary responds to a clip on Facebook that claims to "prove" the Rapture with two Bible verses. Revelation 3:10 and 1 Thessalonians 1:10 are the verses and Gary digs into the Greek and some of the translation and interpretation issues involved. Also, outside of the language issues, there is the larger problem of the historical context and the time indicators.
Gary discusses MAGA, Trump, and the Washington DC political machine. The reason why the uniparty can exist at all is because Americans (and many Christians) have disconnected from truth and history and care more about what vapid celebrities shout into the media echo chamber. It's not a difficult equation: if you allow it to happen without consequences, you will get more of it (think assassination attempts).
Gary discusses the economic nonsense being discussed and "promised" by a certain presidential campaign. Socialists breed envy and what Herbert Schlossberg called "ressentiment" (see Idols for Destruction pp. 51-54) by encouraging voters to go after the "rich" and big businesses. This tactic ultimately hurts the very people is claims to help by causing both higher taxes and prices.
Read Leonard Read's important article "I, Pencil" here: https://fee.org/ebooks/i-pencil/
Gary responds to recent comments made by Glenn Beck on Tucker Carlson's national tour. Beck makes claims about the end times that he hasn't studied or given thought about the implications. If we are "close" to the end, which is a prophetic inevitability, there is nothing we can do about it. The historical context must be considered to properly understand the biblical text.
Listen to the interview here: https://tuckercarlson.com/glenn-beck-tour
Gary discusses the economic concept of tradeoffs. Thomas Sowell wrote about this years ago and it's something that liberals do not understand. Every solution has consequences, and they may be good, bad, or a combination of the two. Liberals want solutions without ever considering the tradeoffs.
Gary discusses the film, The Omega Man, with Charlton Heston. Based on the book I Am Legend (with a 2007 Will Smith remake as well), the film is very prophetic considering modern climate armageddonists claiming that the "end is near" thanks to our continuing use of fossil fuels.
Read Eric Peters' articles here: https://www.ericpetersautos.com/
Gary puts Matthew 24, or what is commonly called Jesus' Olivet Discourse, under the microscope. He responds specifically to the "mixed" approach, which teaches that there are elements of past fulfillment (preterism) and future fulfillment (futurism) throughout the Discourse.
Get the free outlines here: https://store.americanvision.org/products/free-pdf-matthew-16-and-matthew-24-study-outlines
Donate to the matching grant here: https://subsplash.com/u/americanvision/give
Gary answers a commenter on Facebook that doesn't know much about history, or at least about U.S. Constitutional history. The Three-Fifths Compromise (or Three-Fifths Clause) in Article 1, Section 2 of the Constitution does not mean that black slaves were considered to be only 3/5 human. Nonsense like this, as well as cries to abolish the Electoral College do not stand up to historical investigation.
On this third episode of Bible Prophecy Under the Microscope, Gary continues his study of 2 Thessalonians 2 and the "man of lawlessness."
Get Gary's free outline here: https://store.americanvision.org/products/the-man-of-lawlessness-parts-1-and-2
Read more in his book Last Days Madness available here: https://store.americanvision.org/products/last-days-madness
Gary discusses pro-abortion nonsense being spoken by Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear against Vice-Presidential candidate JD Vance. The level of irrationality being promoted by the party of death is stunning, yet media personalities and talking heads continue to swallow and repeat the insanity.
Donate to the AV $10K matching grant here: https://subsplash.com/u/americanvision/give
Gary responds to a few recent news topics, especially people saying Christians shouldn't be involved in the Olympics because it was started by pagans. As expected, Gary has a few things to say about the topic, as well as a few movie recommendations.
Donate to the $10K matching grant here: https://subsplash.com/u/americanvision/give
On this second episode of Bible Prophecy Under the Microscope, Gary deals with comments on Facebook about the man of lawlessness (or sin) from 2 Thessalonians 2. Read more about this in his book Last Days Madness available here: https://store.americanvision.org/products/last-days-madness
Gary is interviewed by Darren Doane about what actually happened during the 2023 "Three Questions" controversy. In this concluding part, Gary continues giving his side of the story, as well as the biblical exegesis that informs his own views on eschatology.
Gary is interviewed by Darren Doane about what actually happened during the 2023 "Three Questions" controversy. Gary summarizes his view of the whole situation and what he has learned from it. He gives background that is necessary to properly understand the entire conflict, which is essentially an in-house debate between adherents of classic Reformed Theology.
Gary begins his new Friday series called "Bible Prophecy Under the Microscope." It is a deep-dive into biblical eschatology (last things), biblical theology, and hermeneutics (interpretation). Pro-tip: Listen past the "end" of the episode for a bonus segment where Gary reviews one of his own books on this topic: Last Days Madness. Available here: https://store.americanvision.org/products/last-days-madness
Gary discusses current financial conditions and the need to be prepared for short-term and long-term "disruptions." We all saw what happened to store shelves during COVID, and this should serve as a lesson to be ready in advance. Not trying to be alarmist, but being ready is always better than not.
Gary gives an update on the various projects and needs at American Vision. There are always new ideas and works and Gary gives listeners a "behind the scenes" look into what's coming soon. Spoiler Alert: We need your help and labor too!
Donate to American Vision here: https://subsplash.com/u/americanvision/give
In the concluding half of his interview with John Reddoch on The Wake Up Call, Gary discusses many different aspects of Bible prophecy and what it means to take the Bible at face-value, rather than trying to fit a complex system into the biblical text.
For a clear explanation of Gary's view of Bible prophecy get his book, Last Days Madness here: https://store.americanvision.org/products/last-days-madness
In this first part of a recent interview with John Reddoch on The Wake Up Call, Gary points out the many problems with the popular prophetic system.
For a clear explanation of Gary's view of Bible prophecy get his book, Last Days Madness here: https://store.americanvision.org/products/last-days-madness
More gun control legislation and executive orders are being proposed by the Biden administration. Gun violence always seems to increase at the exact moment these bills are suggested, but with over 400 million guns in this country, the level of gun violence in the United States is actually quite low. Gary discusses the tyrannical nonsense of wanting to infringe gun rights as a response to criminal activity.
Gary reviews a book by Ken Johnson called "The End Times and the Ancient Church Fathers." Johnson's argument is that the early church fathers believed and taught a similar end times view to modern-day dispensationalists. Gary disagrees and contrasts Johnson's book and views with the truth of Scripture.
For a deeper dive into this topic, get New Testament Eschatology by Gary DeMar and Frank Gumerlock here: https://store.americanvision.org/products/new-testament-eschatology-what-the-early-church-believed-about-bible-prophecy
Gary discusses several topics and shows how biblical apologetics apply and pertain to ultimate questions. Metaphysical concepts like love and existence cannot be limited or defined by what we can see and test in a laboratory. The physical cannot explain the metaphysical. Materialists like Neil deGrasse Tyson and Richard Dawkins pretend that "science" has the answers and yet still live according to a metaphysical moral code of good and evil.
In this interview with Darren Doane, Gary discusses the historical conditions and motivations behind The Christian Life and Character of the Civil Institutions of the United States. Interestingly, the political climate in 1864 was not much different from our own. Christians and non-Christians alike need to be reminded of the impact of God's Word and the Church on society and culture in every generation.
Get the book here: https://store.americanvision.org/products/christian-life-and-character-of-the-civil-institutions-of-the-united-states
The craziness of the current political situation is difficult to deny; it's like watching an episode of scripted television. Anyone who still believes that we live in a country "for the people" isn't paying attention. Facts don't matter, history doesn't matter, reality doesn't matter. The narrative is made up on the spot and attested to by the mainstream media, regardless how ridiculous it sounds.
Gary discusses a recent Tucker Carlson interview with country musician John Rich about Bible prophecy. Both Carlson and Rich point out some of the problems with the doctrine of the pre-trib rapture (there are many), including politics and foreign policy. Once again, it proves that eschatology is not a side-issue; it has massive real-world implications.
Gary responds to certain Christians concerned with Donald Trump's VP pick, JD Vance. Despite many reasons that make him a good VP candidate, many are pointing to his Catholicism as concerning because he "worships an idol of bread," referring to the Roman Catholic view of the Lord's Supper (Communion). Gary points out that politics, and especially the current state, always involves picking the better candidate, rather than the best one.
Gary points out the ongoing hypocrisy of the media and social media allowing liberal celebrities to say and post the most outlandish comments about Donald Trump. How much did these violent statements influence the shooter who tried to take him out? The double-standard is nearly impossible to ignore, so much so that even some on the Left are beginning to notice.
Gary answers a question from one of his YouTube videos about partial preterism, full preterism, and everything in between. There are disagreements among many commentators about which biblical verses refer to AD70 and which refer to the Second Coming. Gary also interacts with a recent article by Ken Gentry about this topic.
Gary continues his interview with Paul Stevenson about politics and freedom and the decline of western culture. Gary points out that a biblical worldview was essentially assumed in both Britain and the United States for many years, but that worldview is steadily eroding.
Note: Gary's recording is rough in several places.
Gary discusses international politics with Paul Edward Stevenson, a radio host from Britain. Political bureaucrats are the same all over the world and desire to have power in order to maintain control. While the promises are always to fix whatever is wrong, the result is always more government intrusion and loss of freedom.
Note: Gary's recording is rough in certain places, but the content is still very good.
Gary discusses the Olympics and other current events that help to destroy the illogical views being promoted by leftists and self-appointed cultural elites. Sports, especially track and field, cannot be made to serve the narrative of men and women being the same. The differences cannot be ignored, even by those who claim to "follow the science."
Gary discusses the state of the world—politically, culturally, socially—and how "bad" things appear to be. He notes that every generation before us had their own similar view, not everything was sunshine and roses. The "good old days" are a myth. But even though things seem to be bad at this moment in time, good things are happening, and the cracks in the veneer are beginning to show.
Gary continues his discussion with the Resistance Chicks about biblical eschatology. Heaven and earth language in the Bible causes many people to think of cosmic bodies out in space, but is this what is really meant? Would first century hearers have understood these words in this way? The conversation leads to a different understanding of current world events and cultural optimism.
The entire interview can be viewed here: https://rumble.com/v4zof46-revelation-redpill-ep59.html
Gary is interviewed by the Resistance Chicks about eschatology and Bible prophecy. The conversation goes into many different areas of related topics and lasts for nearly two and a half hours. This first excerpt deals with an overview of preterism, historicism, the Reformation, and much more.
The entire interview can be viewed here: https://rumble.com/v4zof46-revelation-redpill-ep59.html
Gary discusses Revelation 20 and the enduring topic of the thousand years and the various millennial positions found among Christians. None of the major positions base their view explicitly on the small amount of information found in Revelation 20, which means they look elsewhere in the Bible for support.
Removing the Ten Commandments from schools does not eliminate moral instruction but replaces one moral framework with another. There must be a definitive and final legal standard of appeal to justify moral decisions at the personal and governmental levels. If not, then one judge’s opinion is as good (or as bad) as another: “Everyone did what was right in their own eyes” (Judges 17:6).
Gary responds to two recent statements from Max Lucado and Michael Youssef regarding modern events as being a fulfillment of "end-times" predictions. Gary shows how everything they say is pointing to the last days has already been fulfilled in the first century. We are reading history, not prophecy, in Matthew 24.
Gary continues his talk on the Christian worldview. He discusses the concept of "borrowed capital," or how non-Christians steal morality and ethics from Christians in order to argue against them. Only Christianity provides the moral and ethical foundation for life; an evolutionary worldview can provide only an "everyone for themselves" approach to life. There is no love, equality, family, or compassion in a random chance world.
From the archives: The Gospel of Jesus was "a stumbling block to the Jews and foolishness to the Gentiles" (1 Corinthians 1:23). Despite being in the cultural minority, the early church "turned the world upside down" (Acts 17:6). Gary discusses the Christian worldview, how we got where we are today, and how we get back to being world-changers.
A Rolling Stone magazine reporter went into an event "undercover" posing as a conservative and supposedly got the dirt on Chief Justice Alito. It's a tired tactic, and didn't even remotely prove what the reporter was hoping. Gary gives a quick history lesson to set the record straight.
Gary discusses the concept of "church ages" and what the letters to the seven churches in Revelation 2 and 3 represent. Are we in the "last age," the Laodicean age? Or could the text simply mean what it says and be referring to seven historical churches in the mid-first century? And does this mean that Revelation 2 and 3 mean nothing to us today?
Gary concludes his interview with Steve Deace about eschatology. Terms are defined, views are set forth, and questions are asked. Bible prophecy and "end-time" events can be controversial, but Gary keeps his interpretation tied to Scripture without appealing to current events.
Gary was recently interviewed by Steve Deace about Bible prophecy and eschatology. In this first part, Gary defines terms and gives a quick method of interpretation (hermeneutics) for Christians to follow as they read their Bibles and encounter difficult passages. It's not wise to always rely on the "experts" (who have been wrong over and over and over again).
Gary responds to a recent podcast critiquing aspects of his interpretation of Bible prophecy. One of Steve Deace's producers (Aaron McIntire) has his own "Ask Me Anything" show and answered a question about why he was not convinced by Gary's view of the man of lawlessness. Gary gives further exegesis for his own first-century fulfillment view.
Listen to Aaron McIntire's full episode here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/aotma-on-drake-kendrick-having-a-beef-6-7-24/id1670758110?i=1000658118825
Gary concludes his interview with Jonathan Sedlak about his new book, Reading Matthew, Trusting Jesus. Sedlak’s study examines the rhetorical unity of Jesus' answers in Matthew 24, showing that the discourse’s literary features exclude any delay or transition between periods of fulfillment.
Get Jonathan's book here: https://athanasiuspress.org/products/reading-matthew-trusting-jesus-christian-tradition-and-first-century-fulfillment-within-matthew-24-25
Jonathan Sedlak offers clarification on two important points of his book, Reading Matthew, Trusting Jesus.
In this first part of his interview with author Jonathan Sedlak, Gary introduces listeners to Jonathan and his new book, Reading Matthew, Trusting Jesus. This academic work on the long history of Christian interpreters and their views on the Olivet Discourse in Matthew 25-25 is fascinating and important. Their conversation ran more than an hour, so we split it into two parts.
Get Jonathan's book here: https://athanasiuspress.org/products/reading-matthew-trusting-jesus-christian-tradition-and-first-century-fulfillment-within-matthew-24-25
Gary concludes his response to a recent sermon by Pastor Jack Hibbs about how close we are to the end. Pastor Hibbs jumps from Matthew 24 to Ezekiel 38-39 claiming it also is yet to happen. Gary makes the biblical and exegetical case that the events described in Ezekiel 38-39 have already taken place.
Pastor Hibbs sermon can be found here: https://calvarycch.org/where-are-we/
Gary discusses a short video clip where a grandmother says that she supports hormone blockers for young people, including her own granddaughters, but opposes tattoos because they're "permanent." This astounding ignorance reveals how people seldom connect what they believe about one thing and how it affects (and contradicts) other things.
Gary discusses the now available two-volume commentary on the book of Revelation by Dr. Ken Gentry. It is called The Divorce of Israel: A Redemptive-Historical Interpretation of Revelation. Gary discusses what he likes about it and how it will most likely be received by those who agree and those who don't.
Gary answers a listener question about the two witnesses from Revelation 11. Are these actual people, or groups of people, or something else? There is of course an Old Testament applicability to these witnesses and we must not ignore the OT requirement in interpreting Revelation 11, as well as the rest of the book.
Pastor Loran Livingston makes an encore appearance, this time griping about what he calls the "disgusting" Trump Bible, which includes the Constitution and Declaration of Independence. Gary weighs in on Pastor Livingston's claim that Earth is not his home, as well as his own thoughts about adding extra material to printed Bibles.
Gary's first response to Pastor Livingston's sermon is here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/politics-is-of-this-world/id1500969161?i=1000655157238
Gary continues speaking on the muzzling of Christians. Evangelicals in particular, are targeted as being political by the Left, although this is seldom the actual case. Evangelicals should be political to the extent that the Bible speaks about political issues (which it clearly does), but this doesn't define them as being "political."
Gary discusses several recent news stories about Christians trying to have "dialogues" with leftists about various topics. These types of "sit-downs" are always initiated by non-Leftists and never accomplish anything but further accommodation on the Right.
Gary continues responding to a recent sermon by Jack Hibbs about the "end times." Pastor Hibbs try to connect Ezekiel with Matthew as if they are both speaking of the same events. This is not how exegesis, hermeneutics, or history is done. Pastor Hibbs is trying to connect biblical dots with a preconceived future interpretation.
Gary responds to a recent video sermon by Pastor Jack Hibbs on Matthew 24 and asks "how close are we to the end?" Hibbs makes important hermeneutical points about reading this chapter through the eyes and understanding of Jesus' first century audience, but then quickly veers away from it.
Gary comments on several recent news stories about people railing against Christianity. Consistent atheism is a misnomer and no one actually follows their "Imagine no god above us" worldview. They all borrow aspects of what they like from the Christian worldview to prop up their own.
Gary responds to a video from a pastor who claims "politics are not spiritual because they are of this world." He refers to voting as a privilege that isn't related to Christians being "spiritual." Not only does he misunderstand what spiritual means, he also misunderstands what politics are and why we must be involved.
Gary concludes his response to a recent Wallbuilders show with Mark David Hall on the influence of R.J. Rushdoony. As a historian, Mark David Hall doesn't appear to have done much research at all on Rushdoony. However, there is a simpler answer: many others have also professed ignorance of his writings (on nearly everything) in order to distance themselves from his theonomic and theocratic views.
Gary continues his response to a recent episode from David Barton featuring historian Mark David Hall.
David Barton's article about the 10 Commandments and American law: http://www.moseshand.com/studies/db400yrs.html
Gary begins a series of three podcasts that respond to a recent show from David Barton's Wallbuilders organization. Barton's topic was Christian Nationalism and his guest was Mark David Hall, who makes the erroneous claim that Rousas J. Rushdoony was a small and insignificant voice on American history and church and state. Gary takes issue with this and discusses why.
Gary discusses the economic and the biological differences between men's and women's sports. People must (and do) ignore both the market and the obvious differences between men and women in order to bring in the equality and parity argument in sports. A short lesson in both economics and sports is Gary's response.
Now that the eclipse has come and gone, prophecy speculators have refocused their attention on the Middle East. Iran's attack on Israel got the typewriters of prophecy writers revved up, some comparing it to the Persian Empire. It is time to put all of this back into a proper biblical and ancient context.
NOTE: The recording device changes at 13:30, but the podcast is complete.
In this episode, Gary discusses recent health issues, as well as giving a few hints and tips about getting and staying in shape. As we age, it is very important to keep active and fit, despite most activities for older people being mostly sedentary. A biblical worldview is not only for the mind; it should also affect how we live, exercise, and eat.
Gary discusses recent logic being dropped regarding abortion on the daytime TV show, The View, by resident theologian Whoppi Goldberg. She claims that the decision is personal and should be between the woman, her doctor, and God. While she is quite complimentary and approving of the 10 Commandments, she is less informed about what immediately follows in the very next chapter in the Bible.
Gary discusses tactics of Christian resistance that can be learned from Saul Alinsky's Rules for Radicals. Scotland has recently made reporting "hate speech" easier and they are being inundated with cases. Author J. K. Rowling has even gotten involved. It all reminded Gary of an article written by Dr. Gary North years ago.
Get the Christianity and Civilization four-volume PDF set here: https://store.americanvision.org/products/the-complete-christianity-and-civilization
The passing of Ronald Sider in 2022 presented an opportunity for Gary to tell the sad history of Christian socialism in America. Acts 4-5 is often appealed to as an example of this, but as Gary points out, it was 1) voluntary, and 2) tied to the coming destruction of Jerusalem. Christians must not be manipulated into unproductive mindsets by academic and economic guilt peddlers.
Get David Chilton's masterful response to Christian Socialism: https://store.americanvision.org/products/productive-christians-in-an-age-of-guilt-manipulators
Gary responds to a recent article by Dr. Michael Brown on "replacement theology." Dr. Brown (and most evangelicals with him) are under the impression that God still has promises to fulfill to Israel. Despite the New Testament's clear teaching that far from "replacing" Israel, the New Covenant Church includes both Jews and Gentiles, or "one new man" as Paul says in Ephesians 2.
Gary responds to a recent article that discusses Matthew 24:22. "Unless those days were shortened, no flesh would be saved; but for the elect’s sake those days will be shortened." The article claims this is referring to all people on earth, but Gary points out the context and meaning that the verse is actually talking about. It's about the end of the age, not the end of the world.
Gary continues his talk about teaching history and how to make it relevant and interesting. Too often, children (and adults) don't like history because of how it is taught as a series of unrelated facts and events. Movies can be a great way to engage with history and further the conversation and research.
In a talk from a few years back, Gary discusses how to teach history so that it's relevant, memorable, and applicable. Too often history is taught as names and dates to be memorized with little to no connection to the present. History is the continuing record of man's response to God, and we must all learn and heed the lessons from the past.
Gary discusses a recent article that makes the claim that the end times are finally upon us because eclipses are writing Hebrew letters in the sky. While most of the prophetic signs that modern writers claims as "proof" of what the Bible says will happen are usually arbitrary, this one stretches credulity beyond the limits of reason and biblical revelation.
In his final response to "eclipse fever," Gary discusses the importance of using the Bible to interpret itself, rather than eclipse patterns and town names and a few scattered verses that seem to affirm the modern interpretation. Christians must not be "tossed to and fro by the waves and carried about by every wind of doctrine, by human cunning, by craftiness in deceitful schemes" (Ephesians 4:14).
Gary continues his response to a video promoting "eclipse mania" about the April 8 event. All of the speculators have this in common: they take current events and try to manufacture biblical significance around them.
The Pastor Staley video is here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3_mcNX99VaU
With the April 8 eclipse looming, Bible prophecy and end-times speculators are feeding the newest end-of-the-world frenzy. Gary discusses the history of speculation and the baseless theories of those saying they interpret the Bible "literally."
Gary discusses why the United States is NOT a democracy, despite how many politicians and reporters say it is. We are a constitutional republic, not a democracy. While there are elements of democratic freedom in the system, it contains checks and balances and a healthy distrust of centralized power.
Texas state representative James Talarico claims to be a Christian and recently said a number of things publicly that actually pit the Bible against itself. Gary quotes some of them and comments, as well as discussing the current situation in Haiti.
Gary concludes his talk about Christian involvement in culture and politics by summarizing several popular objections. In his book, Myths, Lies, and Half-Truths, Gary answers 15 common objections that Christians give to not get involved, but he points out that God leaves His people here for that very reason. Heaven may be our ultimate home, but Earth is our home now and needs the spiritual discernment and physical work of Christians.
Gary continues his talk about worldviews and Christian involvement. Going back to the French Revolution, he compares how France viewed and implemented their "new beginning" to how it was viewed and implemented in America. Secularists have long been trying to get rid of God, and sadly many Christians are aiding and abetting their efforts.
In this first part of a recent talk, Gary discusses the worldview implications of Bible prophecy. Many Christians will claim that what we believe about the future doesn't matter, because "God wins" anyway. Gary disagrees that it doesn't matter and gives cultural, theological, and historical reasons why.
Gary continues his interview with artist Dan Riedel about his friendship with Dr. Cornelius Van Til. Far from being a cold academic, Dr. Van Til was a warm, caring individual that wanted to see people come to Christ. He was every bit as much an evangelist as he was a professor. He well understood that the end goal of apologetics was not to win an argument, but a human soul.
Check out Dan's artwork here: http://danielhillriedel.com/
Gary interviews his long-time friend, Dan Riedel, who painted the artwork for the cover of the new book, The Objective Proof for Christianity. Dan knew Cornelius Van Til well and tells a few stories about his long relationship with the man.
Get some of Dan's fantastic art for your home here: http://danielhillriedel.com/
Gary continues discussing Pastor MacArthur's recent comments about Christian Nationalism. He seems to be confused about what most Christian Nationalists are actually saying, and overcorrects his mistaken assumptions with extreme defeatist language. He says "we lose down here." Gary says no, we have already won, thanks to the completed mission and work of Jesus Christ.
Gary begins discussing recent comments made by John MacArthur about Christian Nationalism, but he takes time to set up the full context. Christians often get frustrated by political engagement, but this doesn't mean we should be involved. Private conservations, evangelism, and discipleship are just as important to changing the system, but we don't do one to the exclusion of the other.
What does cannibalism have to do with abortion? More than you might think. Both topics are logical conclusions and perfectly acceptable once the Christian foundation is removed. When nature, red in tooth and claw, becomes the interpretative standard, what actually separates the 4-legged animals from the 2-legged ones?
Get Gary's book here: https://store.americanvision.org/products/why-it-might-be-ok-to-eat-your-neighbor-book
Gary expands a bit on a recent article he wrote called "Christians in the Crosshairs." Christian Nationalism has a much longer history than most people realize, although the definition has remained basically the same. In essence, anyone that wants their Christian faith to influence every area of life are suspect and considered to be Christian Nationalists. Gary sets the record straight.
The article can be read here: https://americanvision.org/posts/christians-in-the-crosshairs/
Gary responds to a podcast episode where a biblical scholar reinterprets Paul as being purely "heavenly-minded." Claiming that Paul was convinced that a major eschatological event was in his future (especially in 1 Corinthians 7), the scholar believes that 1) Paul was mistaken, and 2) he was more concerned with spiritual realities than physical conditions in the first century anyway.
Gary brings up a recent news article about certain Democrats pitching a fit over a Christian pastor praying for "repentance for our national sins." While the sins aren't mentioned, the Democrats filled in the blanks and made an assumption based on other things he said before. Their seething objection is more telling about themselves than the pastor. Christianity is political by its very nature.
Gary responds to a recent statement by attorney Ben Crump about redefining crime to help cut down on the targeting of blacks for criminal activity. Following in the steps of critical theory, Crump is falling right into the trap of the eternal victimhood of blacks everywhere in America. Gary responds and also quotes from Dr. Carol Swain's answer to Crump.
Gary discusses a video from Christian apologist Frank Turek. In Matthew 16:27-28, Jesus says that "some who are standing here shall not taste death, until they see the Son of Man coming in His Kingdom." Turek states that this is referring to the Transfiguration, but then he also steps over to similar language in Matthew 24.
Watch the video here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Xn5s8NFi2Mo
Gary interacts with Ron Rhodes new book, Bible Prophecy Under Siege. While Rhodes deals with the preterist view a bit in the book, it is really nothing more than a rehash of everything he has already written promoting the pretribulational rapture and the dispensational hermeneutic.
Gary answers two listener questions, one about the Bible itself and another about sovereign citizenship. People regularly claim that the Bible is a "religious" book, but unlike every other religious book the Bible roots itself in actual history. Dismissing the Bible as a religious work is special pleading that happens with no other works of history.
Gary answers a listener's question about how Luke 17 differs from Luke 21, and how both chapters relate to Matthew 24 and the events spoken of by Jesus in the Olivet Discourse.
Gary interviews his longtime friend, Kirk Cameron, about how he came to embrace a new view of Christianity and the world. Kirk explains how he met Marshall Foster, how he came in contact with Gary DeMar, and what he is doing now. Spoiler Alert: He is taking his victorious Christian faith to the streets and libraries near you.
Gary responds to recent comments that people have made that Jesus is not currently reigning. After the Ascension, Jesus sat down at the Father's right hand, and is currently governing His Kingdom. Just because the Kingdom doesn't look like we expect it should, doesn't mean that we don't have a King.
Gary responds to comments made at an event with Todd Friel and several others about "dominionism" (with requisite scare quotes). While none of the commenters had a very accurate idea about theonomy or biblical law, they boiled it down to being "moralism."
Gary interviews the late Dr. Gary North about his own personal history and how he came to know and be mentored by Dr. Rousas Rushdoony. North and Rushdoony heavily influenced 20th century theology with their voluminous books about a great deal of topics. The legacy of Rushdoony is still being felt today, more than 60 years after his first book was published in 1959.
Reality and "truth" are being fragmented by modern political and social efforts and promulgated through the internet and social media. Non-Christian beliefs don’t and can’t offer anything in terms of a comprehensive worldview. On this repeat of a previous episode from 2021, the late Dr. Gary North joins Gary DeMar on today's episode with a discussion about today's fragmented world.
Gary discusses the recent advice by Alistair Begg about Christians attending gay "weddings." There is much more behind Pastor Begg's advice, and anyone who was paying attention wouldn't be very surprised. Carl Trueman also weighed in on the issue with an excellent article on First Things (read the article here: https://www.firstthings.com/web-exclusives/2024/01/can-christians-attend-gay-weddings)
Gary responds to a recent article by Pastor Robert Jeffress in Dallas, Texas about the world looking like it's getting very close to the "end." The biblical passages used by Pastor Jeffress have been used by nearly every generation to prove that their generation was living in the "last days." Jeffress also uses 2 Timothy 3, which Gary takes time to answer in detail.
Get David Chilton's The Great Tribulation here: https://store.americanvision.org/products/the-great-tribulation
Gary discusses the concept of dominion and what it means. Many get upset by the word and the implications of man "dominating" the earth and other people, but what Gary points out is that dominion is an inescapable concept; there's always someone seeking to impose their idea of dominion on your and your family.
Read the articles here: https://americanvision.org/posts/dominion-an-inescapable-concept/ and here: https://americanvision.org/posts/biblical-dominion-comes-by-obedience-and-service/
The Gospel of Jesus was "a stumbling block to the Jews and foolishness to the Gentiles" (1 Corinthians 1:23). Despite being in the cultural minority, the early church "turned the world upside down" (Acts 17:6). Gary discusses the Christian worldview, how we got where we are today, and how we get back to being world-changers.
Gary discusses an article that makes the claim that Hamas attacked Israel in order to stop the sacrifice of the "red heifer." Whether it's true or not, it's still a very interesting point that influences Christians, Jews, and now, Muslims. The problem is that there is no need, or Scriptural prediction, for any "red heifer." As the perfect Sacrifice, Jesus fulfilled everything necessary.
Gary discusses three recent items that address the ideas of the intellectual "elites" who believe they know how to understand and fix the world. Their primary solution is to eliminate you and others like you to stop you from messing up the world, but their borrowed capital only takes them so far.
Gary comments on a few recent video clips where leftist narratives are being exposed and challenged. He points out that the information is readily available, and opposing voices are being lifted against the mainstream media's consistent leftist propaganda. These voices need to be sought out, but they exist and are steadily gaining traction.
Gary answers a listener question about the uses and abuses of Artificial Intelligence. Many Christians irrationally fear AI because they believe it will be used for some "end-time" scenario, but this misunderstands both information and intelligence. Thinking isn't neutral and doesn't happen in a vacuum, it all depends on the programming.
Gary discusses an article by Wayne Grudem about 10 reasons to vote for Ron DeSantis over Donald Trump. While many of Grudem's points make sense, they don't factor in the current political "mood" prevalent in the country right now. Trump is certainly a lightning rod, which is exactly why he is opposed at every turn by the mainstream media.
In Matthew 19:28 Jesus tells His disciples "Truly, I say to you, in the new world, when the Son of Man will sit on his glorious throne, you who have followed me will also sit on twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel." Is Jesus on His throne now? If so, are we in the "new world"?
Gary talks about recent comments from Elon Musk and an English rapper named Zuby. Both have opinions about Christianity—although Musk's are somewhat contradictory—and how civilization absolutely needs it. There is a growing understanding that the promises of the Enlightenment and humanism have been left unfulfilled, with no future hope in sight.
Gary discusses a recent question answered by Vivek Ramaswamy about the American government "propping up" Christianity and Christian Nationalism. Aside from the fact that it's so far from the truth, the questioner is asking from a secular/satanic/atheist perspective that has no basis for ANY morality other than "kill or be killed."
Gary discusses a recent call by some atheists to get out to the polls and vote in 2024 to prevent Christian Nationalists from winning. The article claims Christians will put atheists in concentration camps and persecute them once they get in power. It is so far from reality, but this is nothing new for the fantastical atheist "worldview" that consistently borrows (i.e. steals) ethical norms from Christianity.
Get the book here: https://store.americanvision.org/products/why-it-might-be-ok-to-eat-your-neighbor-book
Gary continues his discussion of the confusion over how God's law should be understood and applied in modern times. It is impossible to say God's law no longer applies (which makes everyone a law unto themselves), but some seem to be saying this very thing. God's revealed truths are for His people forever (see Deuteronomy 29:29).
Gary begins a two-part podcast about preterists and God's law. He is receiving a lot of comments of his Facebook page from some preterists who are claiming that since the OT is fulfilled, then God's law no longer has the same applications. This topic is in reality a worldview issue and encompasses much more than eschatology.
A reading for the first week of Advent in Lectionary A is from Matthew 24. In a devotional published on Christianity Today's website by Craig Blomberg admits that while it sounds like the events in the second half of Matthew's version of the Olivet Discourse are for Jesus' first century audience, they really can't be because the "cosmic" language was not actually fulfilled.
Gary responds to a video where a pastor claims you must "rightly divide the Bible," based on 2 Timothy 2:15. By this he means that you must rightly divide the "people" of God into Jew and Gentile and understand New Testament passages in light of "the Church age." The Bible never speaks of a "Church age" but this does not prevent many from claiming that it must be there all the same. They claim it is inferred and is the "key" to correctly interpreting Jesus' prophetic words in the Olivet Discourse.
Watch the video here.
Get Last Days Madness here: https://store.americanvision.org/products/last-days-madness
Gary summarizes the initial two podcasts from the Covenant Hermeneutics and Biblical Eschatology series with Kim Burgess. Now that the first volume of the book is available, this recap was due for a re-run. While many people were enthused and appreciative of the interviews, others have taken issue with them. Gary explains the theological method of reading and interpreting the Bible on its own terms and some questions that arise from reading Scripture in light of Scripture.
Get the book here: https://store.americanvision.org/products/the-hope-of-israel-and-the-nations
God created trees. He made them for us: for home building, decoration, shade, construction of fences, tables, chairs, sheds, and so much more. Just because pagans might have carved up a tree to make an image of a false god to be worshipped does not mean that we can’t use them to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ, God’s “indescribable gift” to us (2 Cor. 9:15).
Read Gary's article here: https://americanvision.org/posts/are-christmas-trees-pagan-symbols/
Gary discusses the classic Christmas film, Miracle on 34th Street. He points out many instances of how this film (and every film for that matter) presents opportunities for thinking through worldviews and Christian apologetics. Many questions are asked throughout the movie that may seem silly at first glance but are actually quite perceptive and help highlight the issue of ultimate authority.
Gary discusses an article written by a woman who regrets pursuing her own goals and fulfillment in the workforce and being single. Ideas have consequences, but some ideas have very serious lifelong consequences, as this woman is quickly learning. In many ways, the Bible esteems maturity as one of the primary goals of life in this world: learning that it's not all about you and your own personal happiness.
Stories keep piling up about the self-appointed "experts" going out of their way to enforce everyone to think and believe what they demand. Newspeak and media brain-washing are the tactics, but many regular citizens are (finally) starting to push back and question the "upside down" world of the cultural elite.
Like many in Israel at the time of Jesus’ birth, Christians today are looking for a political savior to rescue them and break the chains of tyranny. Christian leaders tell people to look up and ahead to Jesus’ second coming and rejoice that their “redemption is drawing near” (Luke 21:28). But was this the response of Simeon and Anna? Were they rejoicing in what God would do millennia in the future, or were they rejoicing about what God was doing then?
Read the article mentioned in this episode at the American Vision website.
One from the archives. Gary answers an interesting question that was submitted to another podcast. The question is tied to Jesus' words in Matthew 24 about "this generation" and the Pharisees as "brood of vipers" in Matthew 23. This question, which Gary had never heard before, caused a lot of discussion on the show and revealed that far from questioning the timestamp of Matthew 24:34, it actually confirms it even more.
Note: This was originally recorded in Dec 2021, when Dr. Heiser was still actively posting podcasts. He died in February 2023 after a long battle with pancreatic cancer.
It is often claimed by revisionist historians that America was founded not on Christian principles but on Enlightenment ones. This is a huge overstatement. It is more correct to say that America was founded on both, however even the Enlightenment-influenced Founders were products of their time, which means they were also influenced by Christian principles and wrote them into our founding documents and governance.
Still in his basement, Gary answers a listener question about the "number of the beast," Nero, and Titus. The listener asks about Pastor Phillip Kayser's view that while Nero could be a candidate, he believes the Roman General (and later Emperor) Titus works better for 666. Gary discusses this and much more about this most notorious number from Revelation 13 (and 1 Kings 10).
Gary's article on this topic: https://americanvision.org/posts/the-beast-and-his-number/
Phil Kayser's article: https://biblicalblueprints.com/Sermons/New%20Testament/Revelation/Revelation%2013/Revelation%2013-16-18
Gary is recording from his basement because the usual recording studio is occupied. He takes the time to discuss a recent article by a Jesuit priest claiming that Donald Trump is the "antichrist." As usual, these writers never mention previous failed claims (many, many of them) as well as never defining "antichrist" biblically.
Part Two of Two. Gary is interviewed by Paul Edward Stevenson on the Last Man Standing radio show about Israel, Hamas, and popular prophecy. Most people who believe that the events in Gaza right now are fulfilling Bible prophecy have no idea what their system actually says about what awaits Israel in the "end times."
Part One of Two. Gary is interviewed by Paul Edward Stevenson on the Last Man Standing radio show about Israel, Hamas, and popular prophecy. Most people who believe that the events in Gaza right now are fulfilling Bible prophecy have no idea what their system actually says about what awaits Israel in the "end times."
A letter written over two decades ago by Osama bin Laden has been making the rounds on social media, especially TikTok, and being used as evidence for the Palestinian side of the Hamas/Israel war. Gary reveals much more behind the letter and shows how Proverbs 18:17 applies: "The first to plead his case seems right until another comes and examines him."
Gary concludes his interview with Rick Welch from The Burros of Berea podcast. Rick read Gary's book, The Case for America's Christian Heritage, and wanted to talk about it and some of the interesting and important events and figures in American history. We can't understand our current state until we understand where we have been as a nation. (Part Two of Two)
Get the book here: https://store.americanvision.org/products/case-for-americas-christian-heritage
Gary is interviewed by Rick Welch from The Burros of Berea podcast. Rick read Gary's book, The Case for America's Christian Heritage, and wanted to talk about it and some of the interesting and important events and figures in American history. We can't understand our current state until we understand where we have been as a nation. (Part One of Two)
Get the book here: https://store.americanvision.org/products/case-for-americas-christian-heritage
Gary discusses the announcement of the MLB All-Star coming to Atlanta (again) in 2025. It was moved to Denver in 2021 due to "restrictive voter laws," which somehow mysteriously produced a record voter turnout the year before. Also, in related news, the ballot discrepancies in Fulton County continue to be ignored, despite many issues.
Gary answers a listener question about the history of the "Rapture" and the vision in 1830 of a young girl named Margaret MacDonald. The Rapture and Dispensationalism itself have done an incredible job of influencing Christians to retreat from culture and being involved in societal issues since everything was supposedly coming to an end. Even music artists like Johnny Cash and Bob Dylan got in on the action.
Gary discusses a Canadian powerlifter who has been suspended from competition for protesting men being allowed to compete in women's categories. The transgender ideology is infiltrating sports and athletes are being silenced when they speak out about the unfair nature of forcing biological women to compete against biological men.
Gary discusses the recent vote in Ohio and the typical diversionary tactics that went on with the wording of the referendum. Rather than clearly stating the intent of the proposed amendment (i.e., keeping abortion legal in the state), the ballot included many other "reproductive" buzzwords on it that muddied the issue.
Gary continues responding to Pastor David Jeremiah's book, The Great Disappearance. The major problem for rapture proponents like Pastor Jeremiah is the complete lack of biblical evidence of what they say is "ready to happen any minute." Verses and passages need to be cherry-picked and strung together like a jigsaw puzzle to make their system "work." Even then, it still doesn't make biblical sense.
Gary interacts with an interview between CBN's Sheila Walsh and Pastor David Jeremiah. In this first part, Gary deals with Ms. Walsh's lead-up to the interview, which is based on Pastor Jeremiah's new book, The Great Disappearance, which is based on... wait for it... the rapture of the church.
Gary responds to a recent interview between Glenn Beck and Max Lucado about the state of the world and the war between Israel and Hamas. Ezekiel chapters 38 and 39 are brought up as evidence that this current war is a key indicator that the "end is near" (again). Gary refutes this view (again) with history and biblical exegesis.
Gary discusses several recent articles about the new Speaker of the House and how he claims that the "Bible is his standard." The Southern Poverty Law Center, former Press Secretary Jen Psaki, and many others are piling on the disinformation and propaganda to scare Americans about the "radical" views of Speaker Johnson.
In this interview with Darren Doane, Gary discusses the historical conditions and motivations behind The Christian Life and Character of the Civil Institutions of the United States. Interestingly, the political climate in 1864 was not much different from our own. Christians and non-Christians alike need to be reminded of the impact of God's Word and the Church on society and culture in every generation.
Get the book here: https://store.americanvision.org/products/christian-life-and-character-of-the-civil-institutions-of-the-united-states
Gary discusses a recent interview that he did about America's Christian history and education. Our children are being harmed by what they are not being taught, as well as by what they are. Parents must first educate themselves and then pass this on to their children and grandchildren in many different ways and times.
Gary responds to a recent article by Dr. Michael Brown that claims the promises made to Israel in Joshua 21 are not the fullness of what God was promising to the Jews. There are logical and historical problems with this—aside from Biblical ones—that are not being answered.
Gary interviews author and screenwriter Brian Godawa about his short film and now full-length novel, Cruel Logic. Ideas have consequences in this theological thriller that puts real ideas to the test in a life and death challenge of pushing the antithesis.
Christianity is a future-oriented worldview. Who inherits what we leave behind? How does our view of the future affect our attitude towards the future? God is the Author of the past, the present, and the future. He owns everything, including time. Does it matter if we live fearfully or hopefully? Very much so, as Gary points out in this important talk from several years ago.
Gary discusses Dwight Wilson's 1977 book, Armageddon Now. As a premillennialist himself, Wilson was able to clearly see the many mistaken prophecies of his own tradition, especially with the World Wars. Wilson maintains that it was the view of a predicted Jewish persecution prior to the Second Coming that led to a "hands off" policy when it came to speaking out against anti-Semitism.
The Dispensational system has a horrific future in store for Jewish people living in Israel. It teaches that the Jews will go through another holocaust, one that won't even compare to World War 2. Proponents of the system often use the Replacement Theology card as a way to cover up their bad exegetical work, especially the inevitable future Jewish holocaust problem.
Gary answers the perennial charge of "replacement theology," a phrase that is designed to end debate by those who teach that the church and Israel are distinct and separate. Israel was the original "church in the wilderness" and the modern Christian church—made of believers from ALL the nations—is what the Bible was predicting throughout the Old Testament and proclaiming in the New Testament.
Gary discusses a new article by Greg Laurie that makes the (same old) argument that modern events "could be" fulfilling biblical prophecies. As Gary makes clear, writers and pastors like Laurie ignore the actual events and actual countries in the Bible that are actual fulfillments of the ancient prophecies in order to make them fit our own day. This is not how exegesis or hermeneutics should be done.
It is vital that Christians understand this issue and don't fall into the political traps being laid everywhere both in the Middle East and the media's evaluation of modern Israel. What is happening in Gaza right now is not a fulfillment of biblical prophecy and doesn't get us any closer to "the end." It is a political war being fought for political reasons.
The resources mentioned in this episode and many more are available here: https://store.americanvision.org/collections/all/eschatology
Gary discusses an article from the Christianity and Civilization series about politics, Christians, and activism. It's amazing how despite the times, not much has changed and the arguments, strategies, and solutions are still the same. We need to now our history in order to understand our present and how to change the future.
Get Christianity and Civilization here: https://store.americanvision.org/products/the-complete-christianity-and-civilization
Gary discusses the recent ousting of Speaker McCarthy and what political writer Jason Whitlock calls the "Gaetzful 8." Whitlock compares the 8 to Gideon's 300 and the idea of the remnant. Pastors are also (slowly) beginning to wake up and get vocal. All good things, but we must always be mindful of history, as Gary is quick to point out.
Read Jason Whitlock's article here: https://www.theblaze.com/fearless/oped/whitlock-the-gaetzful-eight-provide-a-blueprint-for-how-we-fight-the-global-elite
Gary discusses a speech given by Pastor Jack Hibbs to the Family Research Council about the state of the culture. While much of what Pastor Hibbs says is true and good, his eschatology and "last days" teaching is counterproductive, and even contrary, to his larger message. He wants Christians and the Church to get involved and be salt and light in a tasteless and dark world, yet he also teaches that much of the cultural darkness is an indication that Jesus' return is near.
Gary highlights a few recent news articles that are actually encouraging. Most major news stories are negative and stories that do not support the mainstream narrative are usually buried. Never fear though, Gary has done the searching and the researching so you can be encouraged too.
Gary answers a listener question regarding Matthew 24:29-31. Did stars fall from the sky and did the angels gather the elect in AD 70? If so, how? When interpreting Scripture, we must not let the events change the time. If a particular event doesn't meet our expectations, we need to ask why according to the rest of the Bible, not our assumptions. The time texts constrain the events to a particular timeframe. "This generation," "immediately," "right at the door," and other phrases indicate the time all of the events mentioned in Matthew 24 will happen.
Gary deals with an argument making the rounds on social media about Biblical Law. In keeping with the "carnal Christian" debate that was popular in the 1990s, a new group of Christians are positing a similar argument about Old Testament law being "done away with" by Jesus on the cross. Every "position" has some sort of law, and this one is no different. As Gary points out, it's very similar to the "borrowed capital" argument that atheists rely on to make their own case.
Gary continues his response to Answers in Genesis' Ken Ham. Ham uses 2 Peter 3 to show that we are in the "last days." This has been done time and time again, and every time it has been shown to be wrong. Peter was speaking about events of his own day in the first century, not about the state of the culture or the church in our day.
Read the article by David Chilton and Gary DeMar on 2 Peter 3 here: https://americanvision.org/3603/what-does-peter-mean-by-the-passing-away-of-heaven-and-earth-a-study-of-2-peter-3/
Gary responds to a recent Facebook article posted by Ken Ham of Answers in Genesis. To set the stage in this first part, he reads a few passages from Henry Morris' book, Creation and the Second Coming. Ham and Morris worked together in the years before Answers in Genesis was founded. Although Ham doesn't normally teach on eschatology, what he wrote in his article is clearly influenced by Morris and his dispensational views.
It's finally here! Gary's newest book, the one he's been working for years, is now ready and in stock. Why It Might Be OK to Eat Your Neighbor is much more than a provocative title, it is a practical apologetic work that pushes the antithesis of those who claim there is no God, using their own words. This book will help many to wrap their minds around the moral and ethical problems (to name but two) with consistent atheism and pure materialism.
Listen in as Gary is interviewed on the Plow and Potato show. The topic is the relationship between individual households and the State. Who's in charge, and what's their jurisdiction? These questions and many more are discussed in this short but insightful exchange.
Gary responds to a video where a pastor claims you must "rightly divide the Bible," based on 2 Timothy 2:15. By this he means that you must rightly divide the "people" of God into Jew and Gentile and understand New Testament passages in light of "the Church age." The Bible never speaks of a "Church age" but this does not prevent many from claiming that it must be there all the same. They claim it is inferred and is the "key" to correctly interpreting Jesus' prophetic words in the Olivet Discourse.
Watch the video here.
Get Last Days Madness here: https://store.americanvision.org/products/last-days-madness
Gary answers a listener question about the audience change between Matthew 23 and 24. Audience relevance is a major aspect of the Olivet Discourse and the events leading up to Jesus' prophecies about the destruction of the temple. Is Matthew 23 and Matthew 24 and following addressed to a different people and speaking of different events and times?
Gary discusses an article about the upcoming presidential election and the fatigue about the entire process being experienced by the majority of voters. Most people are more concerned with the pressing affairs of their daily life than with the current state of Washington corruption. Tired of being constantly pummeled by political noise, many are checked out, but this doesn't prevent media outlets from creating stories out of thin air (or Twitter).
Gary interacts with Carl Trueman's newest books about "expressive individualism" and the modern "truth" of the interior self. This is one of the primary philosophies driving political and social policy and it is nothing more than sin masquerading as reality. However, the fact that will not be tolerated is that there is one revealed objective Truth.
Read Carl Trueman's article here: https://www.crossway.org/articles/what-does-it-mean-to-be-your-true-self/
Gary responds to several recent articles about the state of the world and the end times. Christians bemoan the sin and depravity they see around them, but then claim that these things are a confirmation that the "end is near." While the world is certainly in need of repair, things getting "worse and worse" is not proof that the last days spoken of the Bible are in our "near" future and "soon" to take place.
Gary responds to a video where a woman is raging against Christians and the Bible. She claims that she "doesn't care what a mythical god says in his mythical book." She appeals to the Constitution as giving her "rights," proving that she misunderstands both the Constitution and where rights and morality come from in the first place.
Gary discusses a recent dust-up at a school in Colorado regarding the Gadsden Flag. Administrators at the school told a student that he needed to remove a Gadsden patch from his backpack because it was a racist symbol. Gary sets the record straight. Note: Listen all the way to the end to hear an update from Gary about this controversy at the school.
You've heard it said over and over again that morality can't be legislated, but this is impossible. Every law is an imposition of someone's morality. In this encore episode from a couple of years back, Gary discusses this topic in much more depth, showing the impossibility of a "neutral" law system.
Gary continues his response to an individual that claims Torah law no longer applies to Christians. Are we to believe that these moral standards disappeared with the coming of the New Covenant, and they no longer have any application to the nations? Paul talks about "the law being written on our hearts," and yet this law seems to be a lot like the law written on stone tablets.
Gary responds to an individual that claims Torah law no longer applies to Christians. Are we to believe that these moral standards disappeared with the coming of the New Covenant, and they no longer have any application to the nations? “Walking by the Spirit” (Gal. 5:16) necessitates walking by an objective standard.
Gary interviews Rhonda Thomas about the current trend in education: social and emotional learning. Children are being indoctrinated in the classroom, but you knew that already. However, it doesn't stop with the public schools; these educational policies are also entering and being taught in Christian schools, albeit with a Bible verse or two.
Gary interviews Ray Moore with Exodus Mandate about homeschooling, Christian schools, and a debate that Ray did over America's Christian history. Ray is a major proponent of getting Christians to leave public schools and his organization provides support and educational materials to aid in the transition once parents decide to educate at home or even start a Christian school in their area.
In this interview from a couple years back, Gary talks movies and television with Loor.TV screenwriter Jason Farley. As a former pastor, Jason recognizes the Bible as a story, and how its story should influence our own entertainment and storytelling. Culture is affected most deeply by its stories, and Christians too often tell weak stories in very poor ways with unrealistic characters. If Christianity is serious about changing the culture it must begin writing and telling better stories.
Dr. Gary North concludes his discussion of how the Scopes Trial and the ensuing political developments shaped the 20th century. Politics gets all the focus, but if every Christian began thinking and teaching how their worldview affects everything from car and home repair to art and music, as well as education (and politics), the battle would be won in short order. We must lose the "woe is me" mentality and develop a "why not me" mentality and strategy instead.
Dr. Gary North continues his discussion of how the Scopes Trial and the ensuing political developments shaped the 20th century. Christians began to get politically involved late in the 1970s but didn't have a unique tactic to extend their game plan. A defensive plan is good in the beginning but an offensive strategy is necessary to sustain the momentum.
Gary responds to an author that claims to refute his book, Last Days Madness. The author makes similar arguments to those that have been made by various dispensationalists over the years, but his novel modification of the translation of Matthew 24:34 inspired Gary to interact directly.
Gary interacts with two articles by David Jeremiah and Dr. Michael Brown regarding the climate of the modern Church. Both use current events to point to the "fact" of the nearness of the "last days." As Solomon said, "there is nothing new under the sun," and that's especially true in the area of prophetic speculation.
Gary discusses a new book called America's Cultural Revolution by Christopher Rufo. In this book, Rufo shows how the leftist takeover was both intentional and long-term. While it actually took much less than fifty years, it was strategic and didn't require a fight. Conservatives stood by and allowed it to happen in plain sight.
In this talk from a recent prophecy conference, Gary discusses the controversy he was involved in and gives a few reasons why simple answers to complex questions don't suffice. He brings up creeds, history, and interpretations that have changed over the years as evidence that there's much more to the debate than first meets the eye.
Dr. Gary North concludes this talk about the importance and historic significance of the Scopes Trial and William Jennings Bryan. A committed anti-Darwinist, Bryan saw the implications of Darwinism for culture and society and recognized its attack on Christianity, both implicitly and explicitly. (Part Two of Two)
In one of American Vision's talks from the archives, Dr. Gary North discusses the Scopes Trial and the importance of William Jennings Bryan as an American political figure. So many aspects of modern media came out the trial, and Dr. North exposes all of it in this fascinating presentation. (Part One of Two)
Several prominent leftists are beginning to question the mainstream media and the Democrat narrative about the pandemic and the vaccine. Two in particular—RFK Jr. and Naomi Wolf—have been vocal dissidents of the effectiveness of the vaccine and the rush to production, especially since the release of the Pfizer documents. The response from their own political party has been to shout down, cancel, and name-call. Pay attention to such as these.
Gary responds to a claim on Facebook that the Law has been fulfilled in Jesus (true), so we no longer need it (untrue). Paul discusses using the law lawfully and that application of biblical law is still a necessary present reality. Otherwise, we have everyone claiming to be a "Spirit-filled" lawkeeper in their own eyes.
Gary interviews a friend from his church about advice Dr. Gary North gave him to set himself up in a business while still holding on to his existing job. As usual, Dr. North's advice is very helpful and encouraging. His point about China is spot on. Parents need to be teaching their children (and themselves) how to do things on their own and how to diagnose and fix problems. As Luke shows, it's a skill that will continue to reap rewards.
Gary discusses a recent article that makes the claim that the end times are finally upon us because eclipses are writing Hebrew letters in the sky. While most of the prophetic signs that modern writers claims as "proof" of what the Bible says will happen are usually arbitrary, this one stretches credulity beyond the limits of reason and biblical revelation.
In this final part of his interview with Dr. Gary North, Gary DeMar asks what can be done right now. What should concerned Christians be doing to stop the seemingly overwhelming tide of governmental increase and tyranny? How can/should the Church respond?
Dr. Gary North discusses R.J. Rushdoony and Cornelius Van Til and what a comprehensive worldview looks like. Christianity must begin responding with a clear biblical witness that is informed by a clear biblical understanding. The research and academic work has been done, now it must be implemented and lived out.
In this first part of a three-part interview, Gary DeMar talks with Dr. Gary North about the need for Christians to take action. The research and study has all been done. The books and newsletters have all been written. More information isn't necessary; action is what is needed now.
Gary discusses several recent new stories surrounding sex, gender, and ideology. The Left is getting downright insane in their defense of their political beliefs regarding these topics. So many different groups of people, including the Supreme Court, are finally speaking rationally when this Leftist irrationality is being propagated.
Watch the Steve Harvey video here
Read Gary's Supreme Court article here
Gary responds to several comments from Pastor John MacArthur and Dr. Michael Brown who are pushing back against the preterist interpretation of Bible prophecy. Many Christians are being told that the world getting "worse and worse" is this is what is supposed to happen in the "end times." This interpretation tends to cause Christians to think that nothing can or even should be done.
Gary discusses several recent celebrities' pronouncements of "biblical truth" and how inconsistent they are with the actual biblical text. Just because someone has a platform does not make them authoritative or accurate. While everyone has an agenda and may try to justify that agenda with carefully selected Bible verses (or paraphrases of verses), Christians must be more careful to read the Bible in context and in light of its own complete story.
The conclusion of a lecture given at a Worldview Conference a few years ago where Gary discusses legacy and responsibility. Not all of us are gifted in the same ways, but God has a purpose for every member of His church. Some are hands; some are feet; and some are neither of those. Our talents and skills should be used to expand God's Kingdom, but this can't happen until people are willing to step out of their comfort zones in faith.
In this lecture given at a Worldview Conference a few years ago, Gary discusses legacy and responsibility. Not all of us are gifted in the same ways, but God has a purpose for every member of His church. Some are hands; some are feet; and some are neither of those. Our talents and skills should be used to expand God's Kingdom, but this can't happen until people are willing to step out of their comfort zones in faith.
Gary discusses his trip to Mexico last week where he gave five talks about eschatology and Bible interpretation. The escapism and pessimism prevalent in the majority of theology in Mexico is largely due to the influence of missionaries from North America. The reception Gary received from these 50-60 pastors is evident of the massive need of "re-education" on eschatological issues to combat the improper interpretations of the future in other countries.
In this concluding part of his interview with Pastor Richard Henry, Gary further discusses the recent heresy controversy. Calling people and their views "heretical" happens far too often among Christians. Doctrines that deny the divinity and the humanity of Christ are indeed heretical (as 1 John makes clear), but differences over interpretations of the "end times" or what happens after death are not in the same category.
Gary continues his interview with Pastor Richard Henry. In this second part, he summarizes some of the controversy he was involved in a few months ago. All Christians are preterists to some degree in that prophecies spoken in the historical past have been fulfilled. Modern scholars and writers disagree over certain specifics of Bible prophecy, and even to the timing of certain events, i.e. past or future to us. But these timing disagreements should not be used to determine orthodoxy.
In this first part of a recent interview with Pastor Richard Henry, Gary critiques the modern (and past) response of the church and Christians to cultural decay and immorality. Eschatology and social action are closely tied together and the paralysis of evangelicals is usually preceded by the claim that things getting worse and worse is merely a "sign of the end times." Things are getting bad because Christians aren't involved and active in making things better.
Gary discusses a recent sermon written and "preached" at a worship service in Germany by ChatGPT. When AI is delivering all the information, how will we possibly determine what's accurate or true? AI can synthesize information all day long, but it cannot distinguish truth from falsehood; it simply takes the various inputs and gives an output based on its programming. Spoiler alert: the programming comes from humans.
Gary discusses recent comments by Yuval Noah Harari about Artificial Intelligence. Harari claims that AI has the ability to give us a "correct" bible about humanity and a new (presumably "correct") spirituality. Predictably, Harari is also concerned about AI getting in the wrong hands and the possibilities it possesses. He believes he is the benevolent hero in his own narrative and imagination.
In this talk given at a worldview conference, Gary explains the difference between government and politics. The solution to social and political upheaval is found in the way God has structured government by declaring that “government” is not synonymous with politics. What we are seeing today was spawned centuries ago.
Gary discusses eschatology and worldview issues with Alex Newman. The interview was recorded but never published for reasons that Gary discusses in the leadup. Bible prophecy and cultural issues are closely tied together and many Christians still do not understand the connection.
Gary discusses the death of Christian broadcaster Pat Robertson and the legacy he left behind. Like Jerry Falwell, Robertson was great when it came to mobilizing Christians and getting them to act about social issues, yet their eschatology was such that everything getting worse and worse was supposed to happen. Gary gives an example of an article that ran on the CBN website the day before Robertson died.
Gary responds to a few individuals that took issue with his previous podcast about working for change within the current governmental system. While what they say is true to some extent, it misses the point that we are living in the system either way. Should we remain passive and quiet, even when we have the ability to voice our opinions and effect change? Paul did not remain quiet and neither should we.
False and spurious speculation about events and technologies continue to be found everywhere, from Tabletalk Magazine to NPR. The supposed biblical teaching about the "end times" serve to confirm what modern Christians already believe about the world "getting worse and worse" as a prophetic inevitability and the nearness of the return of Jesus; it could be any day now, they say, etc, etc. The problem is that the Bible doesn't actually teach this.
Gary discusses some arguments people are raising online against trying to reform our current system of government. The civil and the religious realm—Moses and Aaron—are both in need of constant reformation and this is the responsibility of those with a proper worldview. Should Christians do nothing? Or should they do their own thing? How will either of these responses avoid becoming as corrupt as the current system eventually?
Gary discusses the biblical lessons on hearing and seeing. The Bible constantly sets physical eyes and ears against each other as a way to teach how we should respond to God's Word in faith. "Faith comes by hearing and hearing by the Word of God" (Romans 10:17). Just like the Bereans, we must compare what we both hear and see against the standard of the biblical text. We must have, as Jesus says, "eyes to see and ears to hear."
The First Amendment does not require the federal government to be secularized. The early history of the United States, both before and after ratification of the Bill of Rights, shows that no secularization took place. Congress began its sessions with divine worship. The First Amendment was intended to limit Congress in its use of power regarding religion, including the Christian religion. The only authority that the federal government has is specified in the Constitution.
Gary discusses Judges 8-9 as well as the biblical understanding of the separation of church and state. The state is not the church and the church is not the state. When Christians lose focus in either jurisdiction, the danger of overreach becomes very real. Just like kudzu, one area of authority will overgrow and choke the other.
Gary interviews author and artist Doug Giles about his most recent book about John the Baptist. The reality of the details about the people and events of the Bible are gritty and real. John the Baptist was not a "gentleman" in the sense of modifying his behavior and message to meet the approval of the ruling elite in the first century. John was a real guy and a real prophet, paving and leveling the way for the Messiah Himself.
Get Doug's book here: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1618082159?psc=1∣=ATVPDKIKX0DER&ref_=chk_typ_imgToDp
Gary continues his series on biblical government about how to change society. It's not a quick-fix top-down endeavor; it's a long-term bottom-up lifetime job. Freedom is always a single generation from being lost and it takes vigilance and hard work. We live in a convenient, push-button, instant culture and generational work and commitment are a very difficult sell.
Gary discusses two recent news items about individuals pushing back against the prevailing ideology and newspeak. A 12-year-old and a Christian photographer had the courage to speak the truth and found that many more agree with them than with the trans-agenda propagandists. We should all heed the lesson: Christians should not be allowing the minority to dominate the conversation.
Read Liam's story here: https://www.foxnews.com/media/7th-grade-student-fights-back-school-told-him-change-there-are-only-two-genders-shirt
Gary talks about the film, Galaxy Quest, and the idea of borrowed capital. Just like the aliens in the film, atheists and humanists try to build a world on what they appreciate from what they see in Christianity, without having any basis for it in their own philosophical worldview.
Gary responds to a lady that claimed the Bible was a book of fairy tales and that American Vision is a hate group. Her claims are so flimsy as to be laughable, but it's a good opportunity for a lesson in presuppositional apologetics. Atheists constantly borrow capital from Christianity in order to argue against it and never once credit the Bible from which they are stealing their ethical code.
In this excerpt from Covenant Hermeneutics and Biblical Eschatology, Gary's podcast with Kim Burgess, the two discuss the worldview implications of Bible prophecy. History is filled with examples of Christians disengaging with the world around them because of their end-time view. This is essentially the church voluntary removing itself from its Christ-given mission of being salt and light and a city on a hill.
Subscribe to CHBE here: https://sites.libsyn.com/453213
Gary continues his series on biblical government and how Christians should respond to the current overreach of politics to every area of life. As in Exodus 18—in many ways a model for the United States Constitution—civil government should be decentralized. Limited jurisdiction and spheres of responsibility are the biblical model, not what we have today.
2 Thessalonians 2 has been used by nearly every popular prophecy writer to teach who the "man of lawlessness" is and when the rapture will occur. Gary gives a different response on today's podcast: Read the Bible through the eyes of the original recipients of the New Testament letters and writings. What would it mean to them and how would that change the interpretation of the book?
"But that's Old Testament law, that not for the Church." How many times have you heard this, or even said this? The Bible is the whole counsel of God, not just the New Testament. Israel's civic life, government, and laws are instructive and applicable for us today in the modern world thousands of years later. How to apply them takes wisdom and understanding. Christians should be leading the way in this area since we have the revealed will of God.
Gary interacts with a short video by Jack Hibbs discussing what's happening in the Middle East and claiming it's a fulfillment of Ezekiel 38 and 39, Gog and Magog. Hibbs claims that we're seeing Bible prophecy coming to pass before our eyes, but Gary disagrees, since the events spoken of by Ezekiel have already happened. Gog and Magog is way in the past. We don't have to fear world events because of Bible prophecy; they are bad enough on their own.
In this conversation between Gary and Kim Burgess, the two discuss their other podcast, Covenant Hermeneutics and Biblical Eschatology. Since starting this podcast, there has been much that has happened and they summarize the situation as it seems to stand now. Two things are clear: biblical eschatology deeply affects worldview, and the battle is over hermeneutics (the art and science of interpretation).
Subscribe to the CHBE podcast here: https://sites.libsyn.com/453213
Gary recorded a ten-part series based on his book God and Government a few years back and this episode is the first two parts of that series. He answers many questions about government—what is it, how does it operate, how is it defined biblically, and much more. A well-governed society doesn't mean that it has its politics in order; it means that its citizens are well-governed within themselves. A society of well-governed people yields a well-governed society. It's bottom-up, not top-down.
Gary discusses an article and interview by Pastor Greg Laurie. In the interview with Glenn Beck, Pastor Laurie says it is ridiculous to blame the Jews for Jesus' death. While this is true to a degree, it ignores the significant role the Jewish people—and especially their religious and political leaders—played in the arrest, trial, and crucifixion of Jesus in history. While it is true to say that "sin" in general put Him on the cross, we must not overlook the historical setting and circumstances of the entire Passion Week.
Gary discusses several instances of people rejecting and opposing the current transgender push. Riley Gaines, a swimmer from the University of Kentucky, was not interested in becoming a public figure, but she has become one in her vocal opposition to biological males swimming in female events. The insanity doesn't stop with sports, as Anheuser-Busch recently decided to enter the transgender-affirming game of corporate propaganda.
Gary examines two recent articles about biblical inerrancy and "pornographic" content in the Bible. People continue to make baffling statements of ignorance about the Bible and what it contains. Skeptics—and pastors—trying to accommodate modern social issues don't seem to understand that they are assuming a biblical worldview in order to argue against it. Just "telling people about Jesus" or censoring content misses the need for the foundational information found in the Old Testament.
Gary looks into many verses in the New Testament about whether or not Jesus drank wine with his disciples after His resurrection. At the institution of the Lord's Supper, Jesus said He would not drink the fruit of the vine again until He drank it new with them in His Father's Kingdom (Matthew 26:29). This verse is often used as an argument against preterism, but is it really? Listen now to learn more...
Gary discusses the recent school shooting in Nashville and the "response" from the media and leftists. While we could expect outrage and denouncing of the shooter, what we get instead is sympathy and platitudes. Transgenders are getting more vigilant—and violent—in their reaction to what they believe is oppression. Gary warns that this is only the beginning, and that there will be much more to follow. Christians must get educated and involved.
Gary discusses two recent news stories involving abortion and childbirth. Jane Fonda talked about murdering pro-lifers on a daytime talk show and Chuck Schumer's lesbian daughter just gave birth to his third grandbaby. Both situations reveal the hypocrisy of the liberal agenda, but we are expected to act as everything is normal. Gary takes the opportunity to point out the "nakedness of the emperor" on today's episode.
Watch The Magical Birth Canal video here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CNgwsT295G8
Gary is interviewed by his long-time friend Marlin Detweiler with Veritas Press. The two discuss history, current events, and education. Ultimately the entire conversation is wrapped around the need for a biblical worldview and how every area of life fits into a person's view of the world and ultimate reality.
Check out the Veritas website here: https://veritaspress.com/
Gary discusses a critic on Facebook that believes Christians should leave politics alone and not get involved. Gary points out that 1) this is not biblical, and 2) Christians must be involved to promote righteousness and punish evil. Just as the early church in the book of Acts called out the corruption of the leaders in their day, so must Christians today. It's not a top-down imposition of our will over theirs, it's a bottom-up approach of obedience in every area of life—including civil government.
Part Two of Two. Gary concludes his conversation with Jeremy Stalnecker about biblical worldview. How do we train our minds to "think biblically"? How do we answer cultural and ethical problems with biblical truth? It's not easy, but Christians should want to put in the work to understand and teach others how to apply biblical truth to every area of life.
Part One of Two. Gary is interviewed by Jeremy Stalnecker on the topic of biblical worldview and thinking and acting biblically. Christians must begin with the God of the Bible and what He has revealed. As the Sovereign Creator and Sustainer, God defines truth and reality for us. We merely listen and obey. But how does biblical truth get applied in everyday life?
Part 5: Gary concludes his response to his critics with this episode. He discusses some interesting background information about a few of those demanding answers from him, as well as the Nicene Creed, and a few passages regarding resurrection. In the end, his appeal is the same: the Church needs an ecumenical council on eschatology, similar to what happened in early church history over the humanity and divinity of Jesus.
Part 4: Gary continues his response to his questioning critics. This time he looks at several passages in Acts (17:30-31 and 1:6-11) mentioned as proof texts in the Unorthodox Eschatology statement. In Acts 17, we have three groups of people: the Thessalonians, the Bereans, and the Athenians. One group was mentioned as being "more noble" for their reception of the Apostle Paul and his teaching. Which one are you?
Critics on Facebook keep telling Gary that the three questions are "so simple," which actually reveals they haven't studied the issue in any sort of depth. Gary responds by looking at a few of the Bible verses used in the "Unorthodox Eschatology" statement. They use 2 Peter 3, 1 Thessalonians 4, and 2 Thessalonians 1 as "end of the world" proof passages, but problems arise when you 1) read them in context, and 2) look at how some of the signers have interpreted these passages in contradictory ways.
Since his first response was recorded, the letter sent to Gary has blossomed into an entire website with a condemnation of certain aspects of what the creators believe is "hyper-preterism." A few hundred individuals have signed it, but the most relevant part of the statement is that Scripture verses have finally been included, giving Gary a place to begin interacting with both the original three questions and the statement.
Gary received a letter signed by several individuals looking for answers to three specific questions. In this first podcast of several, Gary gives his side of the "controversy" and why he won't simply answer their questions. A large part of the issue is how the questions are worded. The heart of the matter is what does the Bible teach, not what does Gary believe.
Gary answers a listener question about theonomy and Leviticus 19. Many churches teach, including the listener's, that Old Testament laws not repeated in the New Testament are no longer binding. But Paul writes in 1 Timothy 1:8 that "we know that the law is good, if one uses it lawfully." Paul wrote this BEFORE there was such a thing as the NT and the OT was the only Scripture he had. There is much more to this topic than simply relying on a made-up rule about repetition between the OT and NT.
Gary discusses the current movie, Jesus Revolution, which tells the story of the Jesus Movement in the late 1960s and early 1970s. While not a review of either the movie or the movement, Gary laments the shallowness of what was taught (or not taught) by this captive audience of new believers more than 50 years ago. Had a comprehensive biblical worldview been taught, we may be in a completely different situation today.
In this short interview with the late Dr. Gary North, the two Garys discuss the benefits and biblical application of the Five Point Covenant Model. Dr. North shows that the covenant is unavoidable and always flows out from the very first point: "Who's in Charge?"
Gary talks about his comic book collection and his decision to sell much of it to another collector. Gary talks a bit about the comic book industry and its history, as well as the concept of collecting and value as a whole.
Gary riffs on one of his favorite side-topics: spiritual manipulation and magic. 19th century “spiritual photographer” William Mumler provides the entry-point into the discussion. Harry Houdini, Andre Kole, Danny Korem, Penn and Teller and many others have devoted a large part of their lives to proving that spiritual manipulators are simply using tricks and illusions to convince the gullible of their “mystical” powers.
Gary discusses movies, the end-times, and books. Rapture fever has returned, which makes a book Gary wrote in 2001 relevant once again. Left Behind: Separating Fact from Fiction is Gary's answer and response to the Left Behind craze from the 1990s, which resulted in several movies and a slew of promotional products. People have short memories, but they're still looking for the escape hatch from a "world gone mad." Unfortunately the Bible does not teach it.
Get the book here: https://store.americanvision.org/products/left-behind-separating-fact-from-fiction
Gary discusses comments made at Davos 2023. The World Economic Forum honestly believes that they are the elite of the world with all the answers. John Kerry made the point that they are "almost extraterrestrial," in that they're here to save us from ourselves. This reminded Gary of an old TV show (of course) called the Twilight Zone and one of its episodes in particular.
Gary concludes his interview with Jay Rudolph on the Plumb Line radio program. History is full of examples of both kings and religious leaders overstepping jurisdictional boundaries. The Bible is clear that government and politics are not the same. There are several broad categories of governments—family, church, civil—but each one is dependent upon self-governed individuals. As Robert Winthrop succinctly put it: "Men will be governed by either the Bible or the bayonet."
Gary was interviewed by Jay Rudolph on the Plumb Line radio program. Gary discussed several recent articles he wrote, as well as general worldview issues. Christians must understand that we are in a war of ideas and consequences, as Paul says in 2 Corinthians 10:3-6.
Gary responds to recent article by John Piper, which is an excerpt of his new book, Come, Lord Jesus. Pastor Piper rehearses similar arguments to those in the past trying to explain away the imminency of the coming of the Lord in Matthew 24 (and many other NT passages). Jesus meant what He said about the nearness of His coming in judgment on first-century apostate Israel.
Gary discusses a recent article about artificial intelligence and preaching by Russell Moore. The article raises many important points and Gary takes it in several different directions. AI only does what the programmer tells it to do and Christians need to learn and lead the way on using AI to promote and accurately proclaim the Gospel, rather than hiding from it in fear as an indicator of the "end times."
Read the article here: https://www.christianitytoday.com/ct/2023/january-web-only/chatgpt-artificial-intelligence-ai-preach-sermons-church.html
In this excerpt from a recent Burros of Berea round table, Gary gives several examples of how Christians should do apologetics. Using what Greg Bahnsen called "pushing the antithesis" Christians must force unbelievers to own their materialistic assumptions about reality. Matter does not give us ethics or morality, these must come from a Being.
Listen to the full discussion here: https://rss.com/podcasts/burrosofberea/765632/
Gary discusses an interview he read with a female track and field athlete about what she believes would be the end of sports if transexuals are allowed to compete in opposite gender events. This interview made Gary think of a movie from 1949 called Adam's Rib with Spencer Tracy and Katherine Hepburn. What do the two have in common? You'll need to listen to find out...
Watch the clips of Adam's Rib here: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLZbXA4lyCtqrBFzMId1m8RrmetoS0KrhG
Gary participated in a round-table discussion recently about Christian worldview and cultural response. While the discussion ran nearly two hours, this short excerpt is a good example of the fun time and great conversation that ensued on this episode of The Burros of Berea.
Listen to the entire discussion here: https://rss.com/podcasts/burrosofberea/765632/
In this interview from early 2021, Gary is interviewed on the Plow and Potato show. The topic is the relationship between individual households and the State. Who's in charge, and what's their jurisdiction? These questions and many more are discussed in this short but insightful exchange.
Gary discusses several principles from his book God and Government to a class of homeschoolers. What should the Christian response be to the civil government? We are not always to obey, and we are not always to resist. The civil magistrate has a legitimate and biblically defined role. "We must obey God and not man" (Acts 5:29) must be understood in its proper context.
Gary answers a listener question about the difference between how the word "age" is understood in Matthew 13 and Matthew 24. Is there a difference between what Jesus was teaching in the parable of the wheat and tares in Matthew 13, and between the destruction of the city and the temple in Matthew 24?
Read the two-part article based on this topic here: https://americanvision.org/posts/the-end-of-the-age-part-one/
There’s a lot of talk about "free speech" these days. But is it really? Speech is not free in the sense of being without cost; it’s free (at least theoretically) in the sense of being without restraint. But those who cry the loudest for "free speech" when they think their’s is being restrained, are also the biggest restrictors of speech when given the opportunity.
Gary answers a listener question about resources that best represent and present the dispensational premillennial position. The listener wants to hear the best case for Dispensationalism, even though he has become increasingly convinced of postmillennialism. Gary shows how every position has a couple seemingly perfect Bible verses, but this is not how we should be reading and understanding the Bible as a whole.
The New Testament is filled with references, both explicit and implicit, to Old Testament law and especially the 10 Commandments. Those who believe that the Law is no longer valid and has been done away with by Jesus, do not live lawlessly. All people, even non-Christians, make laws that they expect others to honor and obey. Law is inescapable. The real question is Whose Law?
Read the article here: https://americanvision.org/posts/are-christians-exempt-from-keeping-the-ten-commandments/
The Christian's relationship to the Old Testament is a constant debate, especially in the area of the Law and the 10 Commandments. Are Christian's obligated to keep and honor the law and the commandments, or has Jesus done away with this? Gary responds to several authors and speakers about this topic and their (mistaken) understanding of the relationship between grace and law.
Gary discusses an article on the Front Page Magazine website about the current state of craziness in western culture. Could all the political nonsense and cultural insanity be signals of the end of western civilization? If so, what should be the response of concerned Christians? We can either survive or commit suicide—sink or swim—by using what we have at our disposal.
Be sure to subscribe to our newest podcast with Gary and Kim Burgess: Covenant Hermeneutics and Biblical Eschatology. New episodes begin dropping next week: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/covenant-hermeneutics-and-biblical-eschatology/id1664297952
Gary responds to a listener from Australia that wonders about how certain Greek words are translated in the new Legacy Standard Bible. Presuppositions, especially eschatological ones, are powerful and affect how translators interpret Greek words, which in turn influences their translation efforts.
Gary responds to a listener question regarding the "man of lawlessness" spoken of in 2 Thessalonians 2. The listener agrees that the biblical definition of "antichrist" does not refer to the Roman Catholic papacy, but wonders if it might fit Paul's man of sin (or lawlessness) in 2 Thessalonians 2.
The stunning and terrifying events of the Bills/Bengals game on Monday provides a perfect worldview opportunity to discuss. While fans, announcers, and players stood watching the field as Damar Hamlin collapsed and was given CPR, one response was universal and it revealed the reality of humanity and its frailty.
Gary discusses a new movie being released from the Left Behind series of books, directed by and starring actor Kevin Sorbo. The lead-up to the movie has been pushing the Dispensational view of "antichrist," while neglecting the biblical view. Statements in the marketing like "the Bible claims the Antichrist is Satan’s counterfeit messiah" are completely misleading and run counter to what the Bible actually says about antichrist.
Gary discusses a post on Facebook recently where he was accused of sounding "popish" because of what he said about Mary. Protestants rightly discredit the Roman Catholic veneration of Mary, but we shouldn't discredit her actual biblical role and how she fits into the Gospel and the biblical narrative. Scripture calls her "blessed" and "favored" and so should we.
Gary responds to a recent radio program by Todd Friel about God's law and its application to society. Friel mentions NAR (New Apostolic Reformation), Christian Nationalism, and Christian Reconstruction, among others. While he admits that differences exist, he seems to be suspicious of all of them, while also condemning some who diverge from historic Christian morality.
Gary recaps what's been done, what's being worked on, and what's to come. As a donation-based ministry, American Vision uses your funds as efficiently as possible to further the Christian and biblical worldview in all areas of life. Lots of new projects were finished in 2022 and new ones were started for 2023. Tune in to hear all about them...
Please consider giving a year-end donation to further the work and mission of American Vision here: https://donate.americanvision.org/
Gary discusses a recent article by Daniel Hummel about how concordances made Dispensationalism—and a "scientific approach to Bible reading—possible. We take many of our modern study tools for granted, but each new help has brought with it challenges and unintended consequences to how we read and understand what we read in the Scriptures.
Too much time and money, we hear, are spent on the public side of Christmas — the hustle and bustle of shopping, the lavish decorations, and the often insincere displays of seasonal piety. Meanwhile, the true spirit of Christmas gets left behind. Some even argue that all public displays of Christmas are inappropriate.
Read the article on the American Vision website.
Gary summarizes the two recent interviews with Kim Burgess and what we can look forward to in ongoing discussions with him. While many people were enthused and appreciative of the interviews, others have taken issue with them. Gary explains his theological method of reading and interpreting the Bible on its own terms and some questions that arise from reading Scripture in light of Scripture.
Gary continues his interview with Kim Burgess about the complete story of the Bible. In this part, Kim likens systematic theology to dissection and biblical theology to vivisection. While both methods seek to understand what the Bible is saying, one works in bits and pieces, while the other works to understand the Bible as an organic whole. Traditional evangelical interpretations are too often informed by the dissection method and less by vivisection.
Gary has a much-anticipated interview with his long-time friend, Kim Burgess. The two discuss eschatology and how all the pieces of the Bible fit together as a comprehensive whole. Kim talks about the difference between systematic theology and biblical theology and how the Bible needs to be read and understood on its own terms. Part One of Two.
A reading for the first week of Advent in Lectionary A is from Matthew 24. In a devotional published on Christianity Today's website by Craig Blomberg admits that while it sounds like the events in the second half of Matthew's version of the Olivet Discourse are for Jesus' first century audience, they really can't be because the "cosmic" language was not actually fulfilled.
God created trees. He made them for us: for home building, decoration, shade, construction of fences, tables, chairs, sheds, and so much more. Just because pagans might have carved up a tree to make an image of a false god to be worshipped does not mean that we can’t use them to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ, God’s “indescribable gift” to us (2 Cor. 9:15).
Read Gary's article here: https://americanvision.org/posts/are-christmas-trees-pagan-1/
Gary interviews Robert Cruickshank at a recent conference in Virginia Beach. Gary and Robert have known each other for a long time through phone calls and email but had never met personally until this interview. The two discuss how questions they had about what they were reading in the Bible led them to where they are today.
Gary discusses the classic Christmas film, Miracle on 34th Street. He points out many instances of how this film (and every film for that matter) presents opportunities for thinking through worldviews and Christian apologetics. Many questions are asked throughout the movie that may seem silly at first glance but are actually quite perceptive and help highlight the issue of ultimate authority.
In this second half of his interview with Dr. Michael Horton, Gary discusses what it means to be a Christian nation. There is much common ground between groups in America and many actually want Christian morality without Christ. This is nothing new. Christians must know biblical history as well as world history and be prepared to show how Christianity is the foundation of a proper and just civilization.
Gary was recently interviewed by Dr. Michael Horton on the White Horse Inn podcast. In this first part, Gary discusses how he came to understand the importance of politics, government, history, culture, and a biblical worldview.
Ideas have consequences and eschatology has implications. What you believe about tomorrow affects how you live today. While Gary often pokes holes in Dispensational eschatology, non-dispensationalists have their own cultural decay problems due largely to their views about the future. Obsessing about how it will all end paralyzes Christians into inactivity while the culture melts down around them.
Gary responds to two recent postings about current events and the "rapture of the church." Two important questions that should precede any discussion of the rapture is 1) what is meant by the rapture and 2) what does the Bible teach (or not teach) about it? Too often, prophecy writers and speakers assume the legitimacy of the doctrine of the rapture and look for newspaper clippings and Bible verses that seem to confirm what they already believe.
Gary concludes his discussion with Luke and Joy by addressing politics and foreign policy. Wars and national tensions are unavoidable in a sinful world, but reconciliation comes through the Gospel, not with guns.
Gary continues his interview with Luke and Joy from Apologia Radio. The conversations begins with historical artifacts and moves to how a Christian should think about national defense. A show of force is important and can help keep the peace at times, but at other times it can be a hindrance to foreign relations and evangelizing.
In this first part of an interview with Luke and Joy from Apologia Radio, Gary discusses the book, The Christian Life and Character of the Civil Institutions of the United States. While the influence of Christianity on the founding of America is undeniable, this book collects so much of that history into one volume that it is something of a library (and an education) itself.
Get your copy of Christian Life and Character here: https://store.americanvision.org/products/christian-life-and-character-of-the-civil-institutions-of-the-united-states
Gary responds to a recent article that claims to "deconstruct" the understanding of the Dominion Mandate in Genesis 1:28. The idea is not for one group of people to dominate another group of people, but to have authority. The author mistakes "dominion" for "domination," and the article gets only more muddled from there.
Should our faith influence how we think, move, have our being, and vote? Should Christians be politically motivated and seek to make changes in the world around them according to biblical principles? Or should we simply live out our faith quietly and privately before those around us? In this rebroadcast from early 2021, Gary discusses an interchange he had with “Chaplain Mike” on Facebook.
Gary discusses a recent appearance by Ray Comfort on the Dr. Phil Show. Ray decries the practice of "microchipping" people and how unethical and irresponsible it is (which it is) and how it "might" fulfill Bible prophecy and Revelation 13 (which it doesn't). Christians must stop looking for prophetic signs in every modern technology and start reading the biblical text as significant and relevant to those living in Israel in the first century.
Gary relates the early days of American Vision and how much it took to get a book published. Christians should take advantage of modern technology to teach and proclaim the Gospel. Just as early Christians benefitted from the roads created by the Roman Empire, so we benefit from electronic and networking advances today. This excerpt is from the Burros of Berea podcast.
Listen to the full interview here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/episode-77-testimonies-gary-demar-for-god-and-country/id1588605731?i=1000584078209
Gary discusses the history and work of Joel Belz and WORLD Magazine. A very high-quality, bi-weekly, full-color publication, WORLD Magazine is something you want to read and have in your house. Getting good information can be difficult in today's "always on" media-saturated information blitz, but WORLD makes it fun and easy to keep up on things and share with your family and friends.
Check out the WORLD Magazine website here: https://wng.org/
Gary discusses the consolidation of information and the recognition that we are in a war of ideas and worldviews. Christians often decide not to get involved, but must live with the consequences anyway. Voting isn't a long-term solution, but ignoring it isn't the right response either. It takes work: Get informed, vote, and get to work.
Get informed here: https://store.americanvision.org/products/restoring-the-foundation-of-civilization
Gary discusses the providential history of his life after high school and college and how he met and worked with Greg Bahnsen, David Chilton, Ken Gentry, and many others. This excerpt is from the Burros of Berea podcast.
Listen to the full interview here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/episode-77-testimonies-gary-demar-for-god-and-country/id1588605731?i=1000584078209
Gary answers a listener question about 2 Peter 3 and the fire language. Will the physical earth and heavens be destroyed in a universal conflagration, or is something else being communicated here? Will God destroy his creation in order to make another one, or will He redeem the existing one? We must read 2 Peter 3 in the context of Peter's first letter, as well as the Old Testament.
The Geneva Bible is a Bible of firsts: it was the first complete English translation of the entire Bible, it was the first to include chapter and verse divisions, it was the first to add explanatory study notes throughout, and so much more. The Geneva Bible was also the Bible that helped build America. The story of the Geneva Bible is a fascinating and important part of world and Church history.
Get the Geneva Bible here: https://store.americanvision.org/products/geneva-bible
Two movies are discussed on today's episode, one recent and one from more than a decade ago. Bros and Brokeback Mountain are separated by 16 years but both were agenda-driven propaganda pieces for the homosexual lifestyle. Bros was a spectacular box-office failure for several reasons, and speaks volumes about public support for the gay ideology.
Read Carl Trueman's review of Bros here and Larry David's "review" of Brokeback Mountain here.
Gary discusses the film, The Omega Man, with Charlton Heston. Based on the book I Am Legend (with a 2007 Will Smith remake as well), the film is very prophetic considering modern climate armageddonists claiming that the "end is near" thanks to our continuing use of fossil fuels.
Read Eric Peters' articles here: https://www.ericpetersautos.com/
Gary discusses a news story about the governor of New York claiming that the Bible supports abortion. Since most of her supporters have little to no real knowledge about what (or what is not) in the Bible, claims like this often go unchallenged and a whole generation of people adopt a falsehood as truth. This is nothing new. Authority figures have been claiming to speak for God ever since the beginning in the Garden of Eden.
The defeat of evil and of demonic powers is associated with Halloween. For this reason, Martin Luther posted his 95 challenges to the wicked practices of the Church to the bulletin board on the door of the Wittenberg chapel on Halloween. He picked his day with care, and ever since Halloween has also been Reformation Day. The power of Satan has been broken once and for all, and our children can mock him by dressing up like ghosts, goblins, and witches.
Check out Doug Giles' amazing art here.
Gary discusses another new book release claiming to help readers understand Matthew 24. This time it's written by Michael Youssef. Dr. Youssef claims that the modern world is getting close to being in the "end times" and that the "time is near." This is the very same language used by the Apostle John in the book of Revelation and both authors can't be right. We must allow Scripture to interpret Scripture, not modern events.
Part Two of Gary's discussion of a new book by David Jeremiah and the publishing history of (failed) prophecy books. Gary relates a conversation he had with an individual that believed Hal Lindsey's book, The Road to Holocaust, was an accurate representation of what the Bible teaches about the history of the Jewish people. Dispensationalism teaches that an unthinkable extermination of millions of Jews is still yet to come.
Gary discusses David Jeremiah's new book, which is essentially repeating the same message about being "near to the end." He also begins talking about another book written in 1989 after the failed prophecies of a prior book by Hal Lindsey. The discussion ran long so we cut decided to break this one into two parts.
A new book by Eric Metaxas makes the point that the social and political climate in America today resembles early 20th century Germany. Pastors were not unified and preaching against the concerning actions by the post WWI German government which ultimately led to the rise of Hitler and the Nazi party. Modern Christians are being taught much the same message and facing a similar tyranny.
Get Gary's book, Myths, Lies, and Half-Truths
A recent book and focus on "Christian Nationalism" is the topic of today's podcast. Gary discusses what it means to be a patriot and a Christian, and while the two are not mutually exclusive, they are also not the same thing. We can't rely on America's Christian past and heritage to save us. We must continually move forward, taking the Gospel into every area of life today and tomorrow, and bringing it to bear on every social and political trend.
Failed prophecies take a toll on those who believe them. For the last 100 years or so, Christians have been told by popular writers, speakers, and pastors that the rapture is near. While most can take it with a grain of salt, some get very bound up by fear of the "impending" event that never actually happens. These poor folks suffer from gnawing anxiety caused by RAD (Rapture Anxiety Disorder).
The devastation caused by Hurricane Ian is bringing out the climate-change eschatological crazies. Claiming that the damage caused by Ian is both deserved and endemic of burning fossil fuels, these climate change end-times "prophets" sound just like religious end-times authors who claim every world event is somehow a fulfillment of Bible prophecy. Gary lays out both biblical and historical evidence to attempt to bring sanity back to the conversation.
Gary responds to an article about political commentator Joe Scarborough calling the "pro-life" movement a "heresy." Pointing out that Jesus never mentions the word in the New Testament, Scarborough believes Jesus has no opinion on the subject of abortion. But if Jesus is God (and He is), He most certainly has an opinion on abortion, as well as many other topics that He never talked about in the four gospels.
Gary discusses the historical conditions and motivations behind an important book written in the 19th century, The Christian Life and Character of the Civil Institutions of the United States. The political climate in 1864 was not much different from our own in 2022. The country was deeply divided and truth and history were both being questioned. This book provides a reminder of the providential nature of the establishment of the United States, as well as the response of the individuals bringing it to pass.
Get the book here: https://store.americanvision.org/products/christian-life-and-character-of-the-civil-institutions-of-the-united-states
Gary discusses the historical conditions and motivations behind an important book written in the 19th century, The Christian Life and Character of the Civil Institutions of the United States. The political climate in 1864 was not much different from our own in 2022. The country was deeply divided and truth and history were both being questioned. This book provides a reminder of the providential nature of the establishment of the United States, as well as the response of the individuals bringing it to pass.
Get the book here: https://store.americanvision.org/products/christian-life-and-character-of-the-civil-institutions-of-the-united-states
Christian futurists and atheists will often use the same mistaken arguments when dealing with Jesus' words in the Olivet Discourse. Gary discusses several claims in a recent book by an author who claims to be an atheist because of failed prophecies about the "end times." While his claims are nothing new, he does quote from and interact with Gary's book Last Days Madness, which led to this audio response.
Get Gary's full exposition of Matthew 24, Wars and Rumors of Wars.
Christian futurists and atheists will often use the same mistaken arguments when dealing with Jesus' words in the Olivet Discourse. Gary discusses several claims in a recent book by an author who claims to be an atheist because of failed prophecies about the "end times." While his claims are nothing new, he does quote from and interact with Gary's book Last Days Madness, which led to this audio response.
Get Gary's full exposition of Matthew 24, Wars and Rumors of Wars.
Gary discusses art and worldview with Pastor Doug Giles. Doug has been working on several series of art to help change Christians' perception of biblical persons and events. How we think about the Bible and the men and women mentioned are often informed and influenced by false visual representations in popular paintings and other works of art.
Check out Doug's art here: www.DougGiles.art
Gary discusses art and worldview with Pastor Doug Giles. Doug has been working on several series of art to help change Christians' perception of biblical persons and events. How we think about the Bible and the men and women mentioned are often informed and influenced by false visual representations in popular paintings and other works of art.
Check out Doug's art here: www.DougGiles.art
Gary concludes his interview with Chris Arnzen about abortion, racism, transgenderism, and so much more. The anti-Christian worldview is self-contradictory, and Christians simply need to point this out. The cracks in the foundations of unbelieving thought are growing larger and deeper, and non-Christians are getting more and more irrational in their "logic" to support their fight for power and money in rebellion against the God of the Bible.
Gary concludes his interview with Chris Arnzen about abortion, racism, transgenderism, and so much more. The anti-Christian worldview is self-contradictory, and Christians simply need to point this out. The cracks in the foundations of unbelieving thought are growing larger and deeper, and non-Christians are getting more and more irrational in their "logic" to support their fight for power and money in rebellion against the God of the Bible.
Gary is interviewed by Chris Arnzen on Iron Sharpens Iron Radio. In this first part they discuss Christian worldview, political activism, and how current unbelieving thought is starting to cave in on itself through internal contradictions and competing ideologies.
Gary is interviewed by Chris Arnzen on Iron Sharpens Iron Radio. In this first part they discuss Christian worldview, political activism, and how current unbelieving thought is starting to cave in on itself through internal contradictions and competing ideologies.
Gary discusses several recent books and articles based on the topic of Christian Nationalism. These authors are claiming that some Christians are trying to align Christianity and politics and change the country by taking forceful dominion. This is far from the reality and doesn't match up with the biblical truth on the relationship between Church and State.
Get The Reduction of Christianity here: https://store.americanvision.org/products/the-reduction-of-christianity
Gary discusses several recent books and articles based on the topic of Christian Nationalism. These authors are claiming that some Christians are trying to align Christianity and politics and change the country by taking forceful dominion. This is far from the reality and doesn't match up with the biblical truth on the relationship between Church and State.
Get The Reduction of Christianity here: https://store.americanvision.org/products/the-reduction-of-christianity
In 2 Thessalonians 2, Paul speaks about the "man of lawlessness" (or "man of sin" in some older translations). There has been all sorts of speculation by interpreters about who or what this might be, and on today's episode Gary discusses this section of Scripture—as well as the practical implications—with Pastor Joel Webbon.
In 2 Thessalonians 2, Paul speaks about the "man of lawlessness" (or "man of sin" in some older translations). There has been all sorts of speculation by interpreters about who or what this might be, and on today's episode Gary discusses this section of Scripture—as well as the practical implications—with Pastor Joel Webbon.
Gary discusses a newspaper article about old movies sent in from a listener. Gary's interest in movies from the Golden Age of Hollywood goes deep and this article rekindled his passion and sparked this episode. The classic films are not only fun (and usually clean) entertainment, they can (and should) be used to teach the Christian worldview.
Get Gary's talk and outline about classic movies here.
Gary discusses a newspaper article about old movies sent in from a listener. Gary's interest in movies from the Golden Age of Hollywood goes deep and this article rekindled his passion and sparked this episode. The classic films are not only fun (and usually clean) entertainment, they can (and should) be used to teach the Christian worldview.
Get Gary's talk and outline about classic movies here.
Gary concludes his interview with Pastor Joel Webbon regarding worldview and action. Why do we still see so much anti-Christian responses in the public sphere if Christ is reconciling the world to Himself? Has any progress actually been made in nearly 2000 years of church history?
Gary concludes his interview with Pastor Joel Webbon regarding worldview and action. Why do we still see so much anti-Christian responses in the public sphere if Christ is reconciling the world to Himself? Has any progress actually been made in nearly 2000 years of church history?
Gary continues his discussion with Pastor Joel Webbon about eschatology. Beliefs matter and influence the decisions people make. The cultural failures we see all around us are the result of Christians not being involved. Worldviews matter, and especially our view of what the future holds.
Gary continues his discussion with Pastor Joel Webbon about eschatology. Beliefs matter and influence the decisions people make. The cultural failures we see all around us are the result of Christians not being involved. Worldviews matter, and especially our view of what the future holds.
Gary is interviewed by Pastor Joel Webbon about biblical eschatology. The church has historically not dealt with the topic in a systematic way, and many interpretations of Revelation 20 have resulted. We need to work from inside the Bible and allow Scripture to form our definitions and expectations.
Gary is interviewed by Pastor Joel Webbon about biblical eschatology. The church has historically not dealt with the topic in a systematic way, and many interpretations of Revelation 20 have resulted. We need to work from inside the Bible and allow Scripture to form our definitions and expectations.
Authority is a fact of God's created world and order. Christians and churches were originally very instrumental in the culture and society, but we have steadily given that role and authority over to the state. Because of this, the church has nearly no voice in modern culture. Taking it back requires strategy and a long-term outlook.
In this first part of his interview with Dr. Steve Hotze, Gary discusses his book, God and Government, and the current political situation in America and around the world. Join Gary and Dr. Hotze at the upcoming Christian Patriots Rally in Houston on Sept 17, 2022. Click here for more information.
In this first part of his interview with Dr. Steve Hotze, Gary discusses his book, God and Government, and the current political situation in America and around the world. Join Gary and Dr. Hotze at the upcoming Christian Patriots Rally in Houston on Sept 17, 2022. Click here for more information.
President Biden recently announced that he was going to "spend" $500 billion to help the student debt crisis. This is nothing more than the next phase of the Democrats' disastrous economic policy in an attempt to buy votes in future elections. It's all a sham, and only further devalues the dollars currently in our wallets as well as every future dollar.
President Biden recently announced that he was going to "spend" $500 billion to help the student debt crisis. This is nothing more than the next phase of the Democrats' disastrous economic policy in an attempt to buy votes in future elections. It's all a sham, and only further devalues the dollars currently in our wallets as well as every future dollar.
Just because someone teaches for a Christian university does not mean that they are orthodox. A recent article by a professor from a Christian college in California is a perfect example of this. Gary discusses this article and the author's claims about the Bible being "neutral" on abortion.
Gary responds to a critic about his demand for using modern academic works to interpret the prophetic passages in the Bible. While there is nothing wrong with appealing to new scholarship, the fact remains that every new book that claims to find "new" evidence is nothing more than a restatement of what has been claimed before. There is nothing new under the sun...
Gary responds to a critic about his demand for using modern academic works to interpret the prophetic passages in the Bible. While there is nothing wrong with appealing to new scholarship, the fact remains that every new book that claims to find "new" evidence is nothing more than a restatement of what has been claimed before. There is nothing new under the sun...
Gary discusses an article that appeared recently called "By the Sweat of Our Brow." One of the important concepts brought up by the article and analyzed in depth by another podcast (The Theology Pugcast) is the need for mediating institutions in a culture. What are mediating institutions? Listen to find out...
Read the article here: By the Sweat of Our Brow
Gary answers a listener question about the tension between God's kingdom and man's kingdom. The two always seem to be at odds, but abandoning or ignoring the earthly authorities because of their persecution isn't the answer either. The tension is real and the work can be difficult and frustrating, but the Gospel is the solution.
Gary interviews Dr. Ted Baehr about movies and his current work, as well as his own personal history with the film industry. Ted's company reviews and critiques nearly every movie that is released in light of the Christian worldview.
Gary interviews author and speaker Bill Federer on today's episode. Bill has written nearly two dozen books on America's Christian history and has documented all of it with original source material. He travels all around the country giving talks and is booked nearly every week. More information can be found on Bill's website here.
The announcement was recently made that the IRS would be adding 87,000 agents to its tax army. Gary reveals little knows information from the 1970s proving that the IRS has a long history of using its power to push social agendas, including education.
Read this article about R.J. Rushdoony's testimony against the Texas public schools.
Three black elites have recently appealed to the Bible (sort of) to support their support of on-demand abortions. Al Sharpton, Whoppi Goldberg, and Stacey Abrams have all shown their biblical ignorance with public comments, yet undiscerning voters eat it up. Gary points out the hypocrisy on today's episode, based on his recent article.
Gary interviews Kirk Cameron briefly about the influence of Marshall Foster and the application of the biblical worldview to all of life. Our view of history matters and affects how we live in the present. Christians must know their biblical history, as well as the history of the church and Christians throughout the last 2000 years.
The recent passing of Ronald Sider is an opportunity for Gary to tell the sad history of Christian socialism in America. Acts 4-5 is often appealed to as an example of this, but as Gary points out, it was 1) voluntary, and 2) tied to the coming destruction of Jerusalem. Christians must not be manipulated into unproductive mindsets by academic and economic guilt peddlers.
Get Gary North's book, Christian Economics in One Lesson.
Gary discusses Dr. Michael Brown's recent article, "What Does the Bible Say About the End of the Age?" At the end of his article, Dr. Brown lists several points as a summary of his view and Gary responds to them with Scripture and first century context.
Get Gary's book, Last Days Madness.
Gary discusses recent comments coming from rabid pro-abortionists about their dissatisfaction with the Supreme Court's Dobbs decision in June. Abortion advocates have no logical, scientific, or moral leg to stand on, yet they still can't stop running their mouths and showing everyone what they actually believe.
Get Gary's book, Restoring the Foundation of Civilization.
Gary discusses an economic statement made by a seminary professor surrounding economics and Revelation 6. This professor said that inflation will be much worse during what he believes is a future "great tribulation." Gary responds to both the economic and the biblical statements required by such a view.
Marshall Foster (1945-2022) is the topic of conversation today. Marshall died on July 22, 2022 from pancreatic cancer. Gary relates a few of his own memories of Marshall and how he was instrumental in the beginnings of American Vision. Marshall was a gifted storyteller and one of the best at teaching America's providential history using stories and vivid detail. The episode concludes with a short compilation of Marshall doing what he did best: teaching history with stories.
Be sure to check out Marshall's ministry and resources at World History Institute.
Gary discusses several recent instances of Christians not being able to answer basic challenges to a biblical worldview. The Bible speaks about all of life, not only how to go to heaven or how to pray. God's law lays out the rules for society and how individual behavior affects a culture, for good and for bad. Christianity has answers for every objection that is brought against it, but most modern Christians have not been prepared and taught how to think biblically.
Watch the Darwinist abortionist video here.
Get Gary's book, Thinking Straight in a Crooked World.
Gary discusses several recent instances of Christians not being able to answer basic challenges to a biblical worldview. The Bible speaks about all of life, not only how to go to heaven or how to pray. God's law lays out the rules for society and how individual behavior affects a culture, for good and for bad. Christianity has answers for every objection that is brought against it, but most modern Christians have not been prepared and taught how to think biblically.
Watch the Darwinist abortionist video here.
Get Gary's book, Thinking Straight in a Crooked World.
Gary responds to a Facebook commenter who claimed America was not founded as a Christian nation. The commenter uses the phrase from the Treaty of Tripoli in 1797 to make his case. His use is nothing new and it is both revisionist history and taken out of its proper textual context.
Click here to watch the video explaining Bonhoeffer's Theory of Stupidity.
In this rebroadcast, Gary DeMar sits down with the late Dr. Gary North for a discussion about the 5-point covenant model. Dr. North shows that the covenant is unavoidable and always flows out from the very first point: "Who's in Charge?" Every area of human life and responsibility can be viewed, taught, and understood through this covenant model.
Gary discusses the concept of "church ages" and what the letters to the seven churches in Revelation 2 and 3 represent. Are we in the "last age," the Laodicean age? Or could the text simply mean what it says and be referring to seven historical churches in the mid-first century? And does this mean that Revelation 2 and 3 mean nothing to us today?
Gary responds to a statement from Hawaiian Sen. Mazie Hirono claiming that we have no idea what the Founding Fathers believed. Sen. Hirono is trying to reinterpret the Constitution for her own purposes and wants to disregard the thousands and thousands of pages of books, letters, and articles written by the Founding Fathers describing exactly what they believed and why they wrote the Constitution the way they did.
Gary shows how to force unbelievers to live consistently with their stated anti-God beliefs. This is the wedge of apologetics known as presuppositionalism. Using Proverbs 26:4-5 as his text, Gary shows that 1) evolution is a religion, and 2) it cannot produce a morality short of "only the strong survive."
Gary answers a listener question about Daniel 12 and the resurrection of the dead. Connecting various verses and passages from the Old and New Testaments, Gary shows that once again, the Bible is its own best interpreter. We must be careful to not bend the Bible to our own preconceived ideas, but conform our ideas to the Biblical text.
Click here for Jim Jordan's masterful Daniel commentary, The Handwriting on the Wall.
Click here for Ken Gentry's article on this topic.
Gary answers a listener question about the supposed historical fact that Antipas (mentioned in Revelation 2:13) was martyred in the mid-90s AD under Domitian. If true, this would mean the book of Revelation was written after the destruction of the city and the temple in AD 70. Preterists maintain that the book was written during Nero's reign in the mid-60s AD. So which view is correct and why does it matter?
Gary discusses the recent Supreme Court ruling overturning Roe v Wade and what it means and what comes next. Christians must be involved in every area of life—from womb to tomb—and be ready to give both spiritual and physical help where it's needed. In order to be ready, there must be preparation and a strategy.
Every Fourth of July, we celebrate the "birth of the United States," but this is not quite accurate. The nation of America was born much earlier in the colonies. Thirteen colonies with independent governments and intact constitutions were operating in 1776. Gary discusses the early history of the colonies, and how they founded their laws and constitutions on the Bible.
Gary answers a listener question about the word "church" and how it is used by the Bible and interpreters over the years. Is God "doing something new" in the New Testament, or is He fulfilling exactly what He promised in the Old Testament? Was God's plan for His people changed when they rejected Jesus as their Messiah?
Gary discusses electric cars and the current administration's love affair with making political laws influenced by climate change. There is much to like about the EV industry, but there is also much to be addressed and figured out before EV can challenge the internal combustion engine and petroleum. Government doesn't understand economics, yet they consistently make decisions with huge economic ramifications, and usually for the worse.
Gary discusses how Paul and the apostles approached promised persecution and tribulation during their own lifetimes and ministries. Paul was told that chains awaited him in Jerusalem, yet he went anyway. Persecution may await us as well, but we are called to daily obedience and to preach and live the Gospel regardless of the political or cultural situation. Just as Caleb was not dissuaded by the giants living in the Promised Land, neither should we.
What’s the difference between eschatology and Bible prophecy? Does it make a difference what view you take in relation to future things? Gary talks about his experience sitting down with a seminary class and discussing various views on biblical prophetic interpretation.
Gary responds to two individuals critical of his own eschatological view and points out that preterism is the only position that takes the Bible text literally. Letting the Bible interpret itself can never yield any of the Rapture positions, despite how many times adherents claim that Preterists are "scoffers."
Gary answers several questions from a listener who is fearful and anxious about the world based on what local pastors are preaching and teaching about the "end times." The events they are claiming are for today happened in the first century and fulfilled the prophecies in the very timeframe Jesus claimed they would. Christians should not be fearful; the victory is won and the Kingdom is growing, despite what certain people are saying.
Gary recently returned from a Pastor's Conference in Mexico, where he spoke to a hundred pastors or so about eschatology. On today's podcast, Gary discusses his travel to and from Mexico, his experiences while he was there, and his takeaways from teaching through a translator.
In this second part of his interview with David Vaughn, Gary discusses worldviews and their importance. Everyone, regardless of religious belief or lack thereof, has a worldview. Facts do not self-interpret; facts are interpreted by people and all people interpret through a particular grid of what they believe about ultimate truth and reality. Worldviews are inescapable, and it is vital to understand this in order to effectively communicate with others, otherwise we talk past the issues and each other.
Gary is interviewed by David Vaughn on his radio show, Worldview Matters. Gary and David discuss two big topics currently in the media: abortion and mass shootings. Gary points out that every moral argument requires a foundational system and that the biblical worldview protects both the unborn child and the right to self-defense.
Gary discusses Revelation 20 and the enduring topic of the thousand years and the various millennial positions found among Christians. None of the positions base their view explicitly on the small amount of information found in Revelation 20, which means they look elsewhere in the Bible for support.
Gary answers a listener question about 2 Thessalonians 2 and the man of lawlessness. Understanding Paul's second letter to the Thessalonians must be interpreted through the events of his first letter. Finding the rapture, the Roman Catholic church, or any other number of prophetic events in this chapter is simply not a valid way to interpret Scripture.
Gary answers a listener question about the two witnesses from Revelation 11. Are these actual people, or groups of people, or something else? There is of course an Old Testament applicability to these witnesses and we must not ignore the OT requirement in interpreting Revelation 11, as well as the rest of the book.
Abortion issues are continuing to polarize the national news stories. Nancy Pelosi was even barred from taking Communion by a church leader because of her public support of abortion. It is causing many media figures to say very dumb things, but is revealing their true motivations and beliefs.
Gary responds to a message from a pastor in Tennessee threatening civil disobedience. There are many paths available to American Christians, but taking up arms should not be one of them. Anti-Christian ideologies are self-defeating and we are beginning to witness the unraveling of humanistic thought in many areas. Christians must be steadfast in their daily roles of taking every thought captive and destroying speculations and every lofty opinion raised against the knowledge of God (2 Corinthians 10:5).
Read the David Chilton articles here: Part One and Part Two
Gary responds to a recent article that discusses Matthew 24:22. "Unless those days were shortened, no flesh would be saved; but for the elect’s sake those days will be shortened." The article claims this is referring to all people on earth, but Gary points out the context and meaning that the verse is actually talking about. It's about the end of the age, not the end of the world.
Gary discusses a recent media screed about the 'racist' nature of homeschooling. The article uses actor Kirk Cameron as an example, which is uninformed at best, dishonest at worst. All education is driven by someone else's agenda. No curriculum is neutral; all seek to impose some sort of ideology in what they present as 'true' and 'factual.'
Gary answers a listener question about the difference between sending the disciples out to the "lost sheep of Israel" in Matthew 10 and the "Great Commission" in Matthew 28. Are they the same thing? Are they different? How?
Gary discusses a few "contradictions" commonly pointed out by critics. These textual "issues" seem to be difficult on the surface, but a bit of deeper reading makes it obvious that these "problems" with the Biblical text are not really problems at all. Christians must read in order to understand, and recognize that differences in how things are reported in the Bible are theologically significant and add depth and layers to the text as a whole.
The Gospel of Matthew must be read in the context of the first century and not the 21st. Beginning in Matthew 10, Gary walks through Matthew pointing out the important passages that relate to preaching the Gospel and the impending judgment awaiting the temple standing in the first century.
In a recent talk given in Huntsville, Alabama, Gary discusses why he spends so much time talking about Bible prophecy. Many think it is a divisive topic (which it is) and that we shouldn't waste time on it to avoid dividing Christians. However, many topics are divisive and polarizing. Bible prophecy is a topic that the Bible itself deals with and should not be avoided simply because people disagree about it.
Gary responds to a recent video and emails he has received that were critical of his views on Matthew 24. Gary points out (again) that the these critical views are 1) nothing new, and 2) have been refuted hundreds of times by commentators writing centuries and centuries ago. Preterism is not new as some claim, and more importantly, it allows the Bible to interpret the Bible, rather than current events.
Gary concludes his interview with Chris Arnzen on "Iron Sharpens Iron." Gary answers a question about 1 Thessalonians 4 and encourages Christians to be educated beyond "buzz words" that tend to shut down discussion, words like "Calvinism," "Arminianism," "Postmillennialism," "Hyper-Preterism," etc.
In this first part of two, Gary is interviewed by Chris Arnzen on the "Iron Sharpens Iron" radio program about biblical understanding and denominational traditions. Many modern Christians seem to believe only what they have heard, but rarely know what the Bible itself says. Gary points out that asking questions can be useful in getting people to think outside their traditions.
Political battles around the country are focusing on schools, the Bible, and prayer. Critics want the Bible and prayer removed from schools, yet also want other things added. Everyone has an agenda and seek to impose their view of the world on others. There is no neutrality.
Gary briefly discusses the four major interpretive approaches to the book of Revelation. Futurism, Historicism, Idealism, and Preterism have all been promoted—to greater and lesser degrees—throughout church history. What others have believed in the past should not determine how the Bible should be understood, but what the Bible itself actually says.
Gary begins a short lesson on the four views of the book of Revelation. He begins with the most popular: futurism. The vast majority of futurists are premillennial and dispensational as well. A recurring problem with this view is that the dependent pieces of the system are simply not found in the Bible; they're just not there.
Gary discusses recent news articles and events that have been flushed by the liberal media because they don't fit the narrative. It's not just a right-wing conspiracy anymore. The divide and the lack of objectivity in the mainstream media is becoming impossible to ignore... in their own words.
Gary begins to discuss the book of Revelation and points out important details that most modern Christians dismiss. Although the Bible is written FOR us, it wasn't written TO us. The vast majority of the New Testament is recording historical events and their significance. These past events still have great importance and meaning, especially for vindicating Jesus' authoritative claims about His identity.
Hermeneutics is the art and practice of interpretation. We use hermeneutics every day whether we realize it or not. We interpret not only the words people say, but how they say them and in what context. Understanding the Bible requires the same carefulness and deliberateness that we apply to the words and actions we encounter and interpret in our everyday lives.
Gary discusses a recent article written by Scott Lively on WorldNetDaily. In the article, Lively bolsters his political views about the Biden presidency by speculating about Russia, Ukraine, and sensational interpretations of Bible prophecy. Gary points out that Lively's political arguments can stand on their own and don't need—and aren't helped by—appealing to dispensational "end times" prophetic scenarios.
Read the article here.
God created the world and established its boundaries and rules for living in every area of life. The justice system we have today was at some time largely based on biblical law. The laws that are being overturned today for the most part are laws that Christians spent centuries implementing. The Christian worldview is comprehensive and speaks to every topic. It is as true and authoritative today as it was thousands of years ago.
Gary discusses 2 Timothy 3 and the full meaning of Paul's letter. Just as Jannes and Jambres are historical footnotes and the Church continues to exist, so shall today's enemies of the Gospel come to be forgotten and inconsequential. This is Part One of Two.
Gary summarizes more than a dozen common misunderstandings from his book, Myths, Lies, and Half-Truths. Christians and churches are often paralyzed into inactivity in political and cultural battles because they believe the Bible tells them not to be involved. God expects His people to bring truth to bear on every topic and activity in His world. Sin effects every area of life and needs the revelation of biblical truth.
Gary discusses Acts 16, where Paul appeals to his Roman citizenship to further his Gospel ministry. Being a Christian has real-world implications and we must be aware of these in order to be prepared in every situation. Gary wrote a book called Myths, Lies, and Half-Truths to combat the many excuses that Christians use to NOT be involved in modern controversies. In this first part of his talk, Gary begins defusing these excuses.
Gary answers questions from audience members about the Christian worldview. He begins by briefly discussing an article written in the Yale Law Review in 1979 by Arthur Leff. In the article, Leff laments the fact that his atheism can't account for moral absolutes. Leff puts his own anti-theistic beliefs to the test and this is exactly what Christians need to do when questioned about their own beliefs.
NOTE: The electronic interference continues in parts of this talk
A materialistic worldview has limits. Matter isn't and can't be all that matters. Evolutionists and materialists will rarely admit to this intellectual, ethical, and moral failing in their assumptions, so in this talk, Gary points out the problems for them.
NOTE: There is electronic interference in parts of the talk
Gary continues his talk on the Christian worldview. He discusses the concept of "borrowed capital," or how non-Christians steal morality and ethics from Christians in order to argue against them. Only Christianity provides the moral and ethical foundation for life; an evolutionary worldview can provide only an "everyone for themselves" approach to life. There is no love, equality, family, or compassion in a random chance world.
The Gospel of Jesus was "a stumbling block to the Jews and foolishness to the Gentiles" (1 Corinthians 1:23). Despite being in the cultural minority, the early church "turned the world upside down" (Acts 17:6). Gary discusses the Christian worldview, how we got where we are today, and how we get back to being world-changers.
Gary answers a listener question regarding Matthew 24:29-31. Did stars fall from the sky and did the angels gather the elect in AD 70? If so, how? When interpreting Scripture, we must not let the events change the time. If a particular event doesn't meet our expectations, we need to ask why according to the rest of the Bible, not our assumptions. The time texts constrain the events to a particular timeframe. "This generation," "immediately," "right at the door," and other phrases indicate the time all of the events mentioned in Matthew 24 will happen.
A new series of video podcasts are available from Darren Doane featuring much unused footage from the film, Collision. Doug Wilson and Christopher Hitchens debated the question "Is Christianity Good for the World" and the two keep it very entertaining (and educational) for the audience. Darren decided to begin releasing this behind the scenes footage as a video series, and the first season is now available. Gary discusses Collision, the lead up to the event, and these new videos on today's podcast.
Watch Collision: Through New Eyes here
Listen to the original Great Debate here
Gary completes his lessons on Mark 13. The audience and time context of the Olivet Discourse must not be ignored. The events described were set in a first century context and involve first century technologies. The cosmic language is describing judgment, just as cosmic language described judgment in the Old Testament.
In the second part of his lesson on Mark 13, Gary discusses the text of Mark 13 and Matthew 24 and compares them to events in the book of Acts. Everything Jesus said would happen in the Olivet Discourse did happen just as He said it would in the lead-up and the destruction of the temple in the first century.
Bernie Sanders is back in the news, this time decrying the super-yacht industry. Once again, his answer is to tax the rich even more. Forgetting all of the economic and employment advantages the luxury industry creates, Sanders relies on envy and emotion to make his socialistic claims of inequality. These rich and powerful philosopher kings living in gated communities and lavish homes have no idea what it actually takes to start and run a business.
Gary continues his first talk on Mark 13. If the events spoken of by Jesus in the Olivet Discourse (Mark 13, Matthew 24, Luke 21) have been fulfilled, does that mean they have no relevance to today? Does fulfilled prophecy have any significance after it has been fulfilled?
In this first part of a lesson Gary gave on Mark 13, he discusses the hermeneutics (the method of interpreting) of Bible prophecy. Too often, the Bible's plain language is said to mean something else and events spoken of as ancient events are said to point to modern events. This is not how we interpret and understand the Bible.
Gary answers a listener question about the manuscript differences on Revelation 13 and the "number of the beast." Why does it appear as 616 in some and 666 in others? Does this refer to Nero Caesar, or is it some other cryptic message about someone in our present or future?
Gary is interviewed by his friend Jerry Bowyer on his own podcast, Meeting of Minds. Jerry and Gary discuss presuppositional apologetics and Dr. Greg Bahnsen and the trio of his books recently published by American Vision. These three books are foundational to understanding the necessity of the Christian worldview. Logic and reason have no basis without first assuming the God of the Bible, His truth, and His moral declarations and definitions of reality.
Get the Bahnsen Trilogy here: https://store.americanvision.org/a/bundles/bahnsen-trilogy-2yt0
In this final part of his response to the Michael Brown debate, Gary discusses Jesus' parable of the wheat and the tares in Matthew 13. Who persecuted Jesus’ disciples in the book of Acts? Mostly the religious leaders. The Jews either did it directly or made false political charges like what the Jewish religious leaders did to Jesus to get Rome to execute Him.
What age or time-period was about to come to an end when Jesus’ disciples asked about "the end of the age" in Matthew 24:3? The end of the old covenant age was on the horizon with the ministry of Jesus. He was the ultimate temple (John 2:19), sacrifice (1:29), and mediator between God and men (1 Tim. 2:5). The physical temple was no longer needed. It was designed to be a placeholder for the True Temple.
This is the second part of Gary’s response to the online debate he had with Dr. Michael Brown about Matthew 24. What did Jesus mean when He said “This generation shall not pass away until all these things take place”? Futurists like Dr. Brown reinterpret this simple statement to basically mean “that generation,” meaning a generation far in the future from the one to whom Jesus was speaking in the first century. But this reinterpretation is fraught with problems and inconsistencies, as Gary points out.
Gary recently debated Dr. Michael Brown online about Matthew 24. Since not every issue and point can be fully addressed in an hour-long debate, Gary decided to record several follow-up podcasts about the debate in general, and Matthew 24 specifically. In this first one, Gary discusses the "great tribulation" in Matthew 24:21. Was the destruction of AD70 Israel's greatest tribulation or does it need to be repeated with even worse consequences?
You can watch the debate here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K2BzbL7kMoY.
A recent article on Crosswalk.com states the following: "Many wonder if Russia will have any part to play in the last days? The answer is a resounding 'yes.' We find the answer in Ezekiel 38-39." Gary responds to the article and the assumption that Russia and the current invasion of Ukraine is fulfilling Bible prophecy.
Read the article here.
Do Christians have a responsibility to obey the government in every and all situations? What about the jab and the hot-button topic of pandemic response? Gary responds to recent comments made on the "Ask N.T. Wright Anything" podcast about the shot and civil response. Safety, trust, and authority all factor into this huge political, cultural, and health issue.
Gary responds to a recent podcast from pastor John Piper about the gospel going to the world. Pastor Piper is answering a question about what it means that the gospel had been preached to the "world" and to "every creature under heaven" in Colossians 1. In his answer, Piper compares Colossians 1 to Matthew 24:14, and looks at the Greek in Colossians but not in Matthew. Gary points out that eschatology affects our gospel and missionary presentations, as well as how the Bible itself is translated.
Gary responds to a comment about the need for a "rebuilt temple." The New Testament knows nothing about a future physical temple, but it does speak often about the one standing in the first century being torn down. Jesus Himself is the true temple and the church is built with living stones. He is the ultimate fulfillment of what the temple represented: God dwelling with His people.
Gary responds to a video sent from a listener by Allen Parr about five signs that "prove" we are living in the end times. It's standard dispensational stuff for the most part, all of which has been dealt with on the podcast before. But several points Parr makes in the video are unique, and worthy of discussion. Listen in to hear Gary's response.
The Allen Parr video is here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DaNOyH5i33s
You've heard people claim that the Bible is not a textbook on particular topics. While that's generally true, the Bible is a book about all of life. Everything that it speaks of is useful and true for all times and all people. Humanity needs special revelation in order to see life from God's perspective, rather than through our own sinful perspective. In this final part of the interview between Gary North and Cal Beisner, they discuss Christian education and how we move forward.
In this second part of the interview between Dr. Gary North and Cal Beisner, the discussion turns to long-term and short-term views. A long-term victorious outlook will yield much different results than a short-term pessimistic outlook. Thinking through the consequences of the Christian worldview on every topic of human existence takes time. This will not happen when the church is convinced that its time on earth is short.
The first part of an interview between Gary North and Cal Beisner about worldviews and how they influence everything, including environmental issues. The Apocalyptic Environmentalists have been the majority voice in the media for decades. Cal and his organization, the Cornwall Alliance, work to inform, educate, and motivate Christians to get involved with facts, truth, and optimism.
Free speech continues to be a hot button topic. In this rebroadcast of a show from about a year ago, Gary discusses freedom, speech, and the Christian response.
There’s a lot of talk about "free speech" these days. But is it really? Speech is not free in the sense of being without cost; it’s free (at least theoretically) in the sense of being without restraint. But those who cry the loudest for "free speech" when they think their’s is being restrained, are also the biggest restrictors of speech when given the opportunity.
Gary responds to a podcast episode where a biblical scholar reinterprets Paul as being purely "heavenly-minded." Claiming that Paul was convinced that a major eschatological event was in his future (especially in 1 Corinthians 7), the scholar believes that 1) Paul was mistaken, and 2) he was more concerned with spiritual realities than physical conditions in the first century anyway.
Gary discusses the latest political nonsense being perpetuated by Neil Young and others in response to Joe Rogan's podcast. The music industry has long been a proponent of free-speech and using art to "question the narrative," but now that people like Joe Rogan and Dave Chapelle are questioning the current narrative, the tables are being turned.
Gary discusses several upcoming book projects in the works based around the biblical theological work of James Jordan. His approach to the Bible is sometimes referred to as "interpretive maximalism" and uses the Bible to interpret the Bible. While not everyone will agree with the connections Jim makes with his "maximalism," it cannot be disputed that you will know and understand the entire Bible better and more comprehensively.
In this final part of his response to a Ray Comfort video about modern technology and the "mark of the beast," Gary discusses using the Bible to interpret the Bible. Gary shows how the Bible makes the most sense when taken on its own terms, and not by appealing to modern technologies. Beasts, marks, buying, selling, and numbers are all important parts of both the Old and New Testaments and we must understand Revelation in light of Scripture, not current events.
Watch the Ray Comfort video here: https://youtu.be/B-KnKLU5osA
Gary continues his response to a video by Ray Comfort about Bible prophecy. We must read the New Testament in context and in terms of what was already revealed in the Old Testament. The time was short for the original readers in the first century. The immediacy of the New Testament texts is real, but they cannot be ripped out of their pre-AD70 context to explain modern events and technologies.
Watch the Ray Comfort video here: https://youtu.be/B-KnKLU5osA
Gary responds to a recent video by Ray Comfort with Living Waters Ministries about microchips and the "mark of the beast." In this first part, Gary discusses the obsession with trying to tie the newspaper and modern technologies with Bible prophecy. The Bible itself is its own best interpreter, not modern events or worrisome cultural and technological trends.
Watch the Ray Comfort video here: https://youtu.be/B-KnKLU5osA
In this final part of his civics presentation to a high school class, Gary discusses the issue of civil disobedience. Is it ever right for Christians to disobey a law or an edict of the government? What does the Constitution say? What does the Bible say?
Gary discusses the real meaning of the First Amendment to the U.S. Constitution. One will search in vain for the phrase 'separation of church and state' despite the claims of many that this is what the First Amendment means. The amendment is a limitation on Congress, not on citizens or churches. It is a recognition of jurisdictional separation between the two, and not an elevation of one over the other.
In this lesson given to a high school class, Gary reveals the debate and thought tricks used by unbelievers to support their unbelief. Christians must be aware of the mental trickery being used to identify and uncover the whole story and force the unbeliever to recognize their own inconsistent worldview.
Gary concludes his interview with Dr. Gary North. Van Til and Rushdoony led the way. North and many others continued the research and writing in the 80s and 90s. The information exists and is easily accessible. Now it is up to the next generation(s) to do something with it. Dr. North sketches a potential path forward for motivated individuals to take the information into the 21 century and beyond...
Gary interviews Dr. Gary North about his own personal history and how he came to know and be mentored by Dr. Rousas Rushdoony. North and Rushdoony heavily influenced 20th century theology with their voluminous books about a great deal of topics. The legacy of Rushdoony is still being felt today, more than 60 years after his first book was published in 1959.
Those who question climate and vaccine "science," are being labeled as "science-deniers" in the media. Science is all about questioning and doubting and only moves forward when this happens. Science as a whole can only be done in terms of a Christian worldview, because God made an ordered and orderly world that yields results that can be predicted. This can't happen in an evolutionary, random-chance world.
In this continuation of his first lecture given to a high school class, Gary points out that religion will always exist in society. If the biblical God is not recognized in a culture, something else will take His place. Even atheism is a religion, despite the denials of its adherents.
A great way to start the new year! This is the first part of a series of lectures Gary gave to a high school class last year. Beginning with foundational principles for any worldview, Gary forces the students to think about their own assumptions and why they believe what they claim to believe. Facts are important, but worldview precedes facts and interprets the facts.
Gary discusses his new project: a commentary on the book of Revelation. Christians too often fail to take the context of the first century into consideration when reading Revelation and instead interpret it based on events in their own time. But how would the original audience and readers have understood and interpreted the letter based on what they had available to them soon after Jesus' ascension in the days of the early church?
A high level of expectancy fills the early pages and events of the New Testament Gospels. Herod, the Magi, Anna, Simeon, and "all of Jerusalem"—to name but a few—were all eager and expecting God to act. Thanks in part to the prophecies in Daniel and other prophets, Jerusalem was on edge before and after Jesus' birth. As we say goodbye to 2021 and welcome 2022, Christians need to be reminded that God is always "doing something," and to keep our own high level of expectancy and hope.
Gary continues his interview with Jerry Bowyer. Many details given in the Gospels are extremely important for a proper interpretation of what Jesus said and did and why. These historical and cultural clues are often overlooked, but they add depth and context to the New Testament that modern readers can and should apply to their reading and preaching of the Gospel.
In this first part of his recent interview with author Jerry Bowyer, Gary discusses the economic and cultural arena of the first century. The Bible cannot be interpreted properly without a clear understanding of the times and customs of the people and places described in the text. As an example, Jerry helps add clarity to Jesus' words to the rich young ruler.
Too much time and money, we hear, are spent on the public side of Christmas — the hustle and bustle of shopping, the lavish decorations, and the often insincere displays of seasonal piety. Meanwhile, the true spirit of Christmas gets left behind. Some even argue that all public displays of Christmas are inappropriate.
Read the article on the American Vision website.
Gary answers a listener question about theological resources and courses to help a young pastor. Not everyone can attend or will benefit from seminary. Reading and teaching the Bible doesn't require a seminary education, although it is certainly helpful. Many books and courses are available today to help all people get a better understanding and a more comprehensive knowledge of the entire message of Scripture.
Christians continue to fall for the "neutrality" idea, by allowing leftists to set the terms of political debate and practice. Political commentator David French recently wrote articles that seem tactical on the surface, but reveal the deep problem of trying to play "nice" in political and policy discussions. Gary responds to these articles on today's episode.
Gary answers an interesting question that was submitted to another podcast. The question is tied to Jesus' words in Matthew 24 about "this generation" and the Pharisees as "brood of vipers" in Matthew 23. This question, which Gary had never heard before, caused a lot of discussion on the show and revealed that far from questioning the timestamp of Matthew 24:34, it actually confirms it even more.
Gary discusses political theory and history with his pastor, Dr. David Hall. Dr. Hall wrote an important book called Savior or Servant? that Gary believes to be an important and little-known contribution to the important topic of the Christian's response to governmental overreach and tyranny. Listen to this short but powerful interview with Dr. Hall that helps introduce his book.
Get Savior or Servant? here: https://store.americanvision.org/products/savior-or-servant
Like many in Israel at the time of Jesus’ birth, Christians today are looking for a political savior to rescue them and break the chains of tyranny. Christian leaders tell people to look up and ahead to Jesus’ second coming and rejoice that their “redemption is drawing near” (Luke 21:28). But was this the response of Simeon and Anna? Were they rejoicing in what God would do millennia in the future, or were they rejoicing about what God was doing then?
Read the article mentioned in this episode at the American Vision website.
Is it ever right to disobey authority? Should Christians always do what the state or magistrate say we must do? Biblical examples of individuals and groups disobeying tyrants are many. What are we to learn from these? The final chapter of Myths, Lies, and Half-Truths deals with this topic and discusses the Christian's response to civil and ecclesiastical tyranny and demands to obey.
Get Myths, Lies, and Half-Truths here: https://store.americanvision.org/products/myths-lies-and-half-truths
In this concluding part of his interview with Pastor Evan McClanahan, Gary discusses what applying God's Law looks like today. Jesus said that everything written in the Old Testament points to Him, but does this mean that all those laws are now null and void? Does God's Law still inform our ethics and morality? If so, how? If not, what does?
Get Greg Bahnsen's introduction to God's Law here: https://store.americanvision.org/products/by-this-standard-the-authority-of-gods-law-today
In part one of a two-part interview, Gary discusses theonomy and God's Law with Pastor Evan McClanahan at First Lutheran in Houston. Theonomy remains a difficult but necessary topic for Christians and churches to discuss and apply. Many believe that the Old Testament is no longer relevant and should not be used to inform laws today. Is this correct?
Hebrews 1:2 says "in these last days he has spoken to us by his Son." But the question must be asked (and answered), "the last days of what?" In Chapter 14 of Myths, Lies, and Half-Truths, Gary answers this question making it clear that the last days of Hebrews 1 are past days, and not a two-thousand year time period that continues until the present.
Gary answers a listener question about the Bible and masculinity. Are Christian men to be domineering and forceful, or kind and gentle? Gary discusses many experiences that he had in his own life and various influences that informed the man he is today. Along the way he recommends the book of Proverbs, conversations, and lots of patience and honesty. He also discusses the show "Say Yes to the Dress" and teaches what a Rolodex is. Listen now to learn much more about what it means to be a real man.
Gary responds to a video where a pastor claims you must "rightly divide the Bible," based on 2 Timothy 2:15. By this he means that you must rightly divide the "people" of God into Jew and Gentile and understand New Testament passages in light of "the Church age." The Bible never speaks of a "Church age" but this does not prevent many from claiming that it must be there all the same. They claim it is inferred and is the "key" to correctly interpreting Jesus' prophetic words in the Olivet Discourse.
Watch the video here.
Get Last Days Madness here: https://store.americanvision.org/products/last-days-madness
Is this world controlled by God or the Devil? Is God's Kingdom a current reality, or does it need to wait? In Chapter 13 of Myths, Lies, and Half-Truths, Gary discusses the present reality of God's Kingdom.
The previous podcast on the Landowner parable can be found here: https://garydemar.libsyn.com/the-parable-of-the-landowner
Gary responds to a critic of his article "All Christians are Preterists." A preterist interpretation of prophecy puts its fulfillment in the past. All Christians believe in fulfilled prophecy. This makes them preterists to some degree. What separated unbelieving Jews from believing Jews in the first century was the issue of fulfilled prophecy. Was Jesus the fulfillment of the Hebrew Scriptures that predicted a coming redeemer? Jews who rejected Jesus as the promised Messiah believed He was not the fulfillment of these many prophecies.
Get Last Days Madness here: https://store.americanvision.org/products/last-days-madness
In this interview with Darren Doane, Gary discusses the historical conditions and motivations behind The Christian Life and Character of the Civil Institutions of the United States. Interestingly, the political climate in 1864 was not much different from our own in 2021. Christians and non-Christians alike need to be reminded of the impact of God's Word and the Church on society and culture in every generation.
Get the book here: https://store.americanvision.org/products/christian-life-and-character-of-the-civil-institutions-of-the-united-states
In Chapter 12 of Myths, Lies, and Half-Truths, Gary discusses the objection that God's Kingdom is not "of this world." Similar to first-century Jews, modern Christians reject that God's Kingdom is actually here and now because of what they see around them. They have a particular idea of what God's Kingdom will look like and anything that doesn't meet that definition is thrown out.
Get the book here: https://store.americanvision.org/products/myths-lies-and-half-truths
Some Christian leaders teach that we are to obey the civil magistrate in everything. But there are many examples in both the Old and New Testament of civil disobedience. History also is filled with Christians disobeying wicked edicts of the government. The U.S. Constitution even makes provisions for it. How and when we should disobey is difficult and must be thought through. Thankfully these biblical and historical examples point the way forward in times of tyranny and political overreach.
Get clear on jurisdictions and governmental boundaries with Gary's book, God and Government.
In this first of two talks given in LaGrange, GA, Gary discusses what the Bible has to say about tyranny. There is a lot of talk today about civil disobedience, but a Christian must be searching the Scriptures for the proper response. Romans 13, 1 Peter 2, Acts, and many other passages in the Bible give us much information and help us to think this difficult topic through completely.
Get Gary's book, Restoring the Foundation of Civilization here: https://store.americanvision.org/products/restoring-the-foundation-of-civilization
It is often stated that there is a "wall of separation between church and state" in this country. The problem is that this phrase does not appear in the U.S. Constitution, despite many claiming that it does. The First Amendment is a limitation on Congress, not on any and all interaction between religion and politics. In Chapter 11 of Myths, Lies, and Half-Truths, Gary discusses this misunderstanding, as well as where the concept of a wall of separation actually originated.
Get Myths, Lies, and Half-Truths from American Vision here: https://store.americanvision.org/products/myths-lies-and-half-truths
Abortion remains a plague in the United States (and across the world). The church has such an open opportunity for helping and ministering to young women in the middle of a crisis. Ignoring it because of the political ramifications is sin, and the church needs to get involved. Gary interviews Pat Page—a long-time warrior in the pro-life movement in Georgia—about what individuals and local churches can (and must) begin doing today to help.
Gary discusses a video that seeks to reinterpret the Greek word used for "generation" in Matthew 24. This tactic has been used by Bible commentators, pastors, and authors for years to avoid the plain meaning of the Olivet Discourse. The events described were fulfilled in the first century and the destruction of Jerusalem and the temple, they are not for our day or our future.
Get Wars and Rumors of Wars here: https://store.americanvision.org/products/wars-and-rumors-of-wars
In Chapter 10 of Myths, Lies, and Half-Truths, Gary discusses heavenly and earthly citizenship. Christians will sometimes object to getting involved in the "affairs of the world" because the Christian’s true home is in heaven. Earthly responsibility is misdirected, they claim, because we're just "exiles" here. This is both illogical and unbiblical.
Get the book here: Myths, Lies, and Half-Truths
Change takes time and people are generally impatient. It is easy to get frustrated and discouraged by what we see happening around us, but Christians need to have a long-term vision. The Church has existed for 2000 years, Israel for 2000 years before that, and the patriarchs 2000 before that. We have the time; now we need the vision.
In this second part of Gary's interview with Dr. Gary North, they discuss the division of labor and how Christians need to be focusing on niche specialties, rather than getting sidelined by the big picture of negativity they are being fed by the media.
Listen to Part One.
Get Dr. North's Christian worldview primer, Unconditional Surrender.
Gary interviews Dr. Gary North about the current state of politics and culture and where we go from here. The fragmentation of messaging and medium thanks to the internet has decentralized news and information. Alternative ideas and activities are not reported on the nightly news, but are still happening despite the mainstream media blackout.
Check out Dr. North's extensive website here: https://www.garynorth.com/
Everyone has a religion—both the rabid atheist and the spiritual hippy have this in common. Similarly, every political movement begins first with a religious commitment. In Chapter 9 of Myths, Lies, and Half-Truths, Gary discusses the myth that religion and politics don't mix. Saying they don't is to misunderstand both topics. Religion and politics ALWAYS mix.
Read Arthur Leff's article here: https://images.americanvision.org/Unspeakable Ethics Unnatural Law.pdf
In this bonus episode of the podcast, Gary discusses the Atlanta Braves, the World Series, and Voter ID laws. Major League Baseball moved the All-Star Game away from Atlanta in July because of the state's voting laws. But now, MLB can't avoid Georgia because of the Braves' postseason success.
In Acts 16:18, we read that Paul became "greatly annoyed." It's time for the Church to become greatly annoyed and begin doing something about the nonsense they see around them. Pushback is happening in some places and at some times, but there needs to be much more. If you're not annoyed yet, you're not paying attention.
Pushback is beginning against the "cancel culture" and Southwest Airlines, Netflix, and the NFL are right in the middle of it. In the upside-down world of today's politics and culture, there are celebrities and groups getting shouted down for "unapproved" facts and beliefs. These attempts to shut down freedom of speech are not going unnoticed.
Christians will often object to getting involved in politics because it's a "dirty business." Yes it is, which is exactly why Christians need to be involved. Dirt (sin) is a fact of life in a fallen world, but leaving it accumulate by ignoring it is not the biblical solution. In Chapter 8 of Myths, Lies, and Half-Truths, Gary discusses this and much more about Christians and dirty jobs.
Political liberals are more than willing to use every means necessary to get their message out, even breaking tax laws. Conservatives and Christians seldom have this boldness. In fact, many Christians don't even see the reason to be involved. The Apostle Paul would not agree.
Gary finishes his conversation with Rev. Mickey Schneider about his fifty-year pulpit ministry. Pastor Schneider reveals more of the connections he had with major figures in 20th century Reformed Theology. The church grows through the individual connections and relationships made over the years. Christians should always take the opportunity to meet new people and learn new things from other Christians. You never know where it may lead...
In Chapter 7 of Myths, Lies, and Half-Truths, Gary discusses the claim that the Church should not be involved in social and cultural issues. The Bible is God's Word and we live in God's World, so we should certainly expect that His Word should be applicable to His world. Throughout history, the Church has been a powerful agent for change in the world; that belief needs to be taught once again.
Gary continues his discussion with Rev. Mickey Schneider about the history and major figures involved in Reformed Theology and Southern Presbyterianism over the last half century. Pastor Schneider makes the point that all of us have feet of clay and none of us "has it all figured out." We should learn and change, learn and change some more, keeping all the good that we have learned while discarding the bad. This is how we grow in our faith and understanding.
This is the first part of several of an interview that Gary recorded with Rev. Mickey Schneider. Pastor Schneider has been instrumental in many of the important events that have transpired in Reformed Christianity in the last 50 years. He knows everyone and has been everywhere. In many ways, Pastor Schneider helped lead the modern resurgence of Reformed theology while never being its leader.
In Chapter 6 of Myths, Lies, and Half-Truths, Gary answers the objection of many Christians to being involved in politics and culture because Jesus didn't do these things. First, yes He did. Second, there's many things that Jesus did that Christians aren't required to do, just as there's many things that Jesus didn't do that His followers are expected to do.
Gary discusses a recent video by college professor, Bart Ehrman. Professor Ehrman is a well-known textual critic of the New Testament and is working on a new book based on the final book of the Bible. If the video is any indication, Professor Ehrman will be taking issue with much of modern interpretations of Revelation, mostly informed by 200 years of Dispensationalism and the Rapture. Gary points out that the preterist interpretation of Bible prophecy doesn't appear to be a part of Ehrman's research.
Gary discusses film and movies with Marcus Pittman, founder of Loor.tv. The conversation begins with the marvels of modern medicine and surgical procedures and ends with economics. In between, Gary and Marcus discuss science, movies, television, and music and how Christianity is the foundation of all of them. Marcus reveals how Loor.tv is seeking to apply the crowd-funding model to entertainment choices and allowing viewers to influence what gets made.
Gary talks movies and television with Loor.TV screenwriter Jason Farley. As a former pastor, Jason recognizes the Bible as a story, and how its story should influence our own entertainment and storytelling. Culture is affected most deeply by its stories, and Christians too often tell weak stories in very poor ways with unrealistic characters. If Christianity is serious about changing the culture it must begin writing and telling better stories.
Gary interviews Douglas Wilson at the Fight, Laugh, Feast Conference about the beginnings of his writing and teaching ministry. They discuss the formative years of Doug's upbringing and why he and his wife decided to start a Christian school. Doug also reveals the primary reason why his father chose Moscow, Idaho as the place to begin his own teaching ministry.
Gary concludes his discussion with Pastor Richard Henry about popular "end-time" interpretations. The book of Revelation tells us that it is a book of "signs." Too often, popular writers try to make these signs "literal" in the sense of reality and not in the sense of the literature. Reading Revelation "literally" means reading it on its own first-century terms, not with a modern 21st century mindset.
In this second part of his interview with Pastor Richard Henry, Gary continues discussing modern technology and Bible prophecy. Barcodes, microchips, cell phones, and even Monster Energy drink have all been connected to the book of Revelation and the "end times." But the events the Bible speaks of make much more sense when interpreted through a first-century fulfillment. Interpreting the Bible with the Bible, instead of with modern technologies and fads, is always the better method.
In this three-part interview with Pastor Richard Henry, Gary discusses the current scare over the vaccine, tyranny, buying and selling, the rapture, and the "mark of the beast." In this first part, Gary addresses biblical hermeneutics and the current phenomenon of "internet exegesis," which seeks to apply modern events to Bible prophecy.
Gary responds to an email that he received from a critic. The email is similar to the sign someone posted on our dumpster (see previous episode). Dividing lines are becoming clear and Christians are going to be forced to make a decision. This is a worldview battle with very real consequences.
Someone posted a sign on the American Vision dumpster declaring that Gary created a "hate group." The sign was complete with QR codes for anyone wanting further reading during their trip to the trash bin. Gary discusses this claim and the continuing misinformation about AV (and other Christians) coming from the left.
Gary interviews former pro baseball player Dennis Sarfate about his new role at Apologia Ministries. Dennis goes around the country and encourages individuals to push bills through their local and state legislatures to help end the scourge of legalized abortion in America.
Gary responds to a meme he saw on Facebook about Christians being more concerned with the Constitution than the Sermon on the Mount. While the sentiment is understood, the practicality of it is being missed by this meme. Christians in the United States live under the Constitution just as Paul lived under Caesar. It's both and, not one or the other.
In Chapter 5 of Myths, Lies, and Half-Truths, Gary discusses the political and social demand that Christians should be neutral in the public sphere. He points out the absurdity and impossibility for anyone—Christian and non-Christian alike—to remain neutral in any debate or topic. Everyone has operating presuppositions and a worldview; neutrality is a myth.
Gary discusses a comment he saw on Facebook trying to connect leprosy and cleanliness laws in the Old Testament with coronavirus restrictions. Significant differences exist between leprosy and viruses, but that is only the beginning of the story.
In Romans 11, Paul talks about the Jews being "jealous" of the Gentiles. Was this fulfilled in the first century, or is this speaking of events off in the distant future? Does God have a future plan for Israel, separate from His plan for the Church?
In this final part of his interview with Dr. Gary North, Gary DeMar asks what can be done right now. What should concerned Christians be doing to stop the seemingly overwhelming tide of governmental increase and tyranny? How should the Church respond?
Dr. Gary North discusses R.J. Rushdoony and Cornelius Van Til and what a comprehensive worldview looks like. Christianity must begin responding with a clear biblical witness that is informed by a clear biblical understanding. The research and academic work has been done; now it must be implemented and lived out.
In this first part of a three-part interview, Gary DeMar talks with Dr. Gary North about the need for Christians to take action. The research and study has all been done. The books and newsletters have all been written. More information isn't necessary; action is what is needed now.
You've heard it said over and over again that morality can't be legislated. This is impossible. Every law is an imposition of someone's morality. In Chapter 4 of Myths, Lies and Half-Truths, Gary discusses this topic in much more depth, showing the impossibility of a "neutral" law system.
Proving how out of touch they are with world issues, the Biden administration is forcing social agendas as a final public spectacle in Afghanistan. Removing our troops and staff from the country has been coupled with flying a rainbow flag over the embassy. This does not promote pride nor build trust for American policies.
Gary responds to an author that claims to refute his book, Last Days Madness. The author makes similar arguments to those that have been made by various dispensationalists over the years, but his novel modification of the translation of Matthew 24:34 inspired Gary to interact directly.
Is the Gospel simply praying a prayer to follow Jesus, or is it a life defined by actually following Jesus? What does it mean to obey the Gospel? Biblical salvation changes the whole person from the inside out; it is a comprehensive change. A true Christian is known by works, not by words. Gary discusses this and much more in Chapter 3 of Myths, Lies, and Half-Truths.
As the recent collapse of 20-years of American occupation in Afghanistan attests: worldviews matter. Despite the best of intentions, we can't export the Christian understanding of the world onto a people that are conditioned to think as slaves and are mental captives to tyranny. You cannot sanctify a people who are not first justified by the saving work of Christ.
Gary responds to a video that was sent to him about secret codes in Hebrew. The woman in the video claims that political and cultural "elites" are fallen angels and are sending messages to each other in code that she has "discovered." It's The Bible Code all over again...
In the second chapter of his book, Myths, Lies, and Half Truths, Gary discusses true spirituality. Is the spiritual person one who does not get involved in the affairs of the "world?" Spiritual is not antithetical to the physical. God expects his spiritual saints to be actively involved in his physical creation.
Gary discusses a recent statement from a well-known faith-healer on the issue of preterism. Andrew Wommack had an employee quit his ministry due to differences in eschatology. Wommack responds by appealing to Revelation 1:19, and Gary points out the problems with this, focusing on the Greek word "mello."
Gary discusses all of the protests at and against the 2020 Olympics. What do these antagonistic stunts actually prove? Does anything actually change for the better? Actions speak louder than words (or gestures). If you don't like how things are now, work to do what you can to change it or improve it.
Many Christians believe that the "world" is a distraction from the real work of Christianity, which is said to be "getting people saved." While evangelism and discipleship are indeed part of our calling, so is taking dominion and making this world reflect heaven, as Jesus says in the Lord's Prayer. Gary discusses this and much more in the first chapter of his book, Myths, Lies, and Half-Truths.
Gary shares his thoughts about Simone Biles and her decision to sit out a majority of the 2020 Olympics due to "mental health" issues. No one denies that sports and competition can be "mental," but is not "being on your game" the same as a "mental health" issue?
Gary answers a question from a listener about the book of Daniel and the book of Revelation. Daniel is told to "seal up" his scroll because the time is far off, but in Revelation the seals are broken and John is told not to seal up the book. Is this a further indication that the events of Revelation (and Daniel) were fulfilled in the first century?
On this episode, Gary begins discussing a new book, chapter-by-chapter. Myths, Lies, and Half-Truths is a book Gary wrote years ago to combat 15 popular objections that many non-Christians (and Christians, sadly) use as supposed conversation-enders to Christians getting involved in the culture around them.
Ever since American Vision republished Christian Life and Character, the ignorance of objectors to the book has been swift and loud. Gary discusses some of the common objections to how Christianity has influenced American civil government and sets the historical record straight.
In this final part part of his interview with Pastor Richard Henry, Gary discusses how eschatology is less about the "big" things and more about the "little" things. Life is made up of a multitude of small daily decisions and each of those are influenced by a worldview. A defeatist worldview will naturally lead to defeatist daily decisions.
In this second part of his interview with Pastor Richard Henry, Gary discusses how your view of the future affects how you live today. Eschatology matters, and everybody has one. Christians must start building the culture they want, rather than complaining about the one they currently have.
Gary was interviewed by Pastor Richard Henry about eschatology and hermeneutics (the science of interpretation). In this first part, Gary gives a short biographical sketch of himself and his own path of discovery about what Jesus taught in the Olivet Discourse (Matthew 24, Mark 13, and Luke 21).
Gary reviews a book by Ken Johnson called "The End Times and the Ancient Church Fathers." Johnson's argument is that the early church fathers believed and taught a similar end times view to modern-day dispensationalists. Gary disagrees and contrasts Johnson's book and views with the truth of Scripture.
Both Genesis 1:28 and Matthew 28:18-20 tell God's followers to be fruitful, multiply, and fill the earth with generations of faithful covenant-keepers. In this final Paradise Restored episode, Gary discusses how the knowledge of the glory of God will cover the earth, as the waters cover the sea (Habakkuk 2:14).
Atheists and homosexuals are all up in arms about an ad ran in newspapers by Hobby Lobby. Claiming that Hobby Lobby wants to impose Christianity on every citizen, these groups conveniently ignore their own dominionist tendencies.
Gary discusses The Tomorrow War, a new movie featuring Chris Pratt and J.K. Simmons. Gary compares the plot line of the movie to modern evangelical eschatology and its pessimistic view of the future. Listen now to learn more...
In the final three chapters of the Bible, Christians are assured of their ultimate victory, but that victory is already a present reality. Jesus has won the victory, Jesus is King... NOW! In two chapters near the end of Paradise Restored, David Chilton makes this point very clearly. Christians must live in terms of the present reality of victory, not in some delayed "some day in the future" victory.
In this talk, Gary DeMar shows how to force unbelievers to live consistently with their stated anti-God beliefs. This is the wedge of apologetics known as presuppositionalism. Using Proverbs 26:4-5 as his text, Gary shows that 1) evolution is a religion, and 2) it cannot produce a morality short of "only the strong survive."
Gary responds to a video where a woman is raging against Christians and the Bible. She claims that she "doesn't care what a mythical god says in his mythical book." She appeals to the Constitution as giving her "rights," proving that she misunderstands both the Constitution and where rights and morality come from in the first place.
In Chapter 21 of Paradise Restored, David Chilton comments on Revelation 17-19, which contrasts two cities: New Jerusalem and Old Jerusalem. A harlot woman is riding the Sea Beast, which is Rome, and she is accused of all sorts of blasphemies and abominations. She is also drunk with the blood of the saints (cf. Matthew 23:34-36). What does all this imagery mean? Listen to today's episode to learn more...
Gary riffs on several different topics on today's episode: immigration, economics, ethnic groups, and housing developments. The initial launching point comes from an article by Tucker Carlson about liberal politicians trying to influence elections by keeping minorities dependent on government money and programs based on where they live.
Gary discusses two recent news stories regarding a wave of petty theft around the country and the IRS denying tax-exempt status to certain Christian organizations. As only Gary can do, he brings both stories together to highlight the common thread and worldview issues at stake.
In Chapter 21 of Paradise Restored, David Chilton discusses Revelation 13 and the two Beasts. Futurists often appeal to this passage as proof of an "Antichrist" in the "soon to come" end times. But is it really...?
Gary responds to an interview with author Jerry Jenkins of Left Behind fame. Jenkins claims that the Bible tells us that time means something different to God than it means to us, yet he still makes the claim that the end times are "probably soon" to happen.
Gary answers a listener question about 1 Corinthians 7. In this chapter, Paul gives advice that seems to contradict other parts of the Bible. Is his advice normative for all Christians in all times, or is it timely advice for a particular group of people at a particular time? Listen to today's episode to find out...
Gary continues his discussion with Dr. Gary North about education and how Christians need to begin reconstructing it. It will take time; it will take work; it will take many experts; but thanks to the internet, it wouldn't take much money.
Read the report here: https://images.americanvision.org/CollegeCurriculumProgram.pdf
Gary DeMar and Gary North discuss an ambitious project led by Vishal Mangalwadi to reconstruct education. Both DeMar and North have been involved in similar pursuits for over 50 years and both have unique perspectives on what a massive project will take to be successful.
Gary DeMar sits down with Dr. Gary North for a discussion about the 5-point covenant model. Dr. North shows that the covenant is unavoidable and always flows out from the very first point: "Who's in Charge?"
Futurists claim that events in Bible prophecy are "soon" to happen based on current events. What they fail to point out is that the Bible itself makes the same claim about events in the first century. So who's right? Modern interpreters of the New Testament or the NT writers themselves? In Chapter 18 of Paradise Restored, David Chilton takes the NT writers at their word and shows that the book of Revelation was fulfilled in the cataclysmic events of the first century.
The culture of fear and fragility has a new hero in Texas. Going off-script at graduation ceremonies is the new way to be "brave" and "courageous," at least according to Hillary Clinton. Gary discusses the hypocrisy of the abortion industry and its adolescent adherents at high school commencements.
Princeton recently announced that learning Greek and Latin would no longer be required for its Classics majors. "Inherent racism" was of course the rationale for this major decision by the Ivy League school. Gary discusses this decision and its ramifications and consequences on today's episode.
Chapter 17 of Paradise Restored is about how to understand the signs of symbols of the book of Revelation. David Chilton also addresses the need for understanding the Old Testament, as well as the ethical dimension of Bible prophecy. Listen in as Gary discusses this and much more.
Gary discusses a new book that he and his wife had a large part in helping to write. America: In God's Providence is a massive American history textbook that proves the indelible influence of Christianity and God's protection and blessing on both the formation and continuation of the United States of America.
When the Biden Administration took office in January 2021, Trump's 1776 Project was immediately taken down from the White House website. American Vision has partnered with another publisher to make the 1776 Project available in print with an extensive introduction by Gary DeMar.
In Chapter 15 of Paradise Restored, David Chilton discusses the biblical term "the day of the Lord" and what is left to happen eschatologically. Was all biblical prophecy fulfilled in AD 70, or is there more to transpire? What about the Second Coming? Listen to today's episode to learn more.
Gary answers another critic that claims that the events in Matthew 24 are "obviously" future and yet to be fulfilled. Using Scripture as its own interpreter, Gary shows how these events have, and must have, been fulfilled in the first century destruction of Jerusalem and the temple.
With the continued strife and struggle between Israel and Palestine, Bible prophecy pundits are all lit up with signs of the "end." Gary answers two commenters who believe these missile strikes in the Middle East are a confirmation that Jesus is coming "soon."
Chapter 14 of Paradise Restored is called "The Restoration of Israel" and deals with Romans 11 and God's future plans for Israelites and genetic Jews. All Israel will be saved, but this does not mean that every Jew will be saved. Listen now to learn more about this very important topic.
Gary answers a listener's question about how Luke 17 differs from Luke 21, and how both chapters relate to Matthew 24 and the events spoken of by Jesus in the Olivet Discourse.
On today's episode, Gary answers two listener questions regarding progressive dispensationalism and the disciples' question about Jesus' coming in Matthew 24:3.
In Chapter 13 of Paradise Restored, David Chilton discusses the biblical understanding of the "last days" and proves, from the Bible itself, that these days have already come and gone. Peter, Paul, the book of Hebrews, and many other New Testament writings make it clear that the "last days" were fulfilled in the destruction of Jerusalem in AD 70.
Gary continues his interview with screenwriter and author Brian Godawa about the Bible, culture, and entertainment. Christians need to be more, not less, involved in creating art and telling great stories. Learn more about Brian and his work at www.Godawa.com.
Gary recently met with screenwriter and novelist Brian Godawa in Dallas, Texas. In this two-part interview, Gary and Brian discuss movies, publishing, and Christian influence in the entertainment industry. Learn more about Brian and his work at www.Godawa.com
In Chapter 12 of Paradise Restored, David Chilton discusses "antichrist" and what the Bible actually says about this topic. Contrary to much modern belief, the Bible doesn't teach that there is a single shadowy figure known as "The Antichrist" that will take over the world in an apocalyptic future known only to science fiction. Listen to this episode to learn more what the Bible actually does say about "antichrist."
American Vision has recently reprinted Gary's book, Memory Mechanics. In this book, Gary teaches how to memorize anything. You don't need to be a genius to have a great memory. Simple techniques and methods that are easy to learn can improve your memory nearly overnight. Gary discusses some of these in this episode.
Gary talks about his comic book collection and his decision to perhaps sell it to another collector. Gary talks a bit about the comic book industry and its history, as well as the concept of value as a whole.
Cosmic and universal language is all over the Bible, especially the Old Testament. Language that most commentators, even futurists, recognize as referring to events in Israel's history thousands of years ago, is suddenly given strange Planet Earth-destroying interpretations when encountered in the New Testament. In this episode, Gary discusses Chapter 11 of David Chilton's Paradise Restored.
Gary answers several listener questions about full-preterism and the "second coming." While Christians tend to make much about what the future holds, the Bible emphasizes what we should be doing now, not waiting for the end to come.
According to a recent Barna study, only 6% of Americans have a biblical worldview. Syncretism and "none of the above" are the worldview of the day in modern, confused, and inconsistent America. More than ever, clear thinking—biblical thinking—is needed among Christians.
Gary discusses Chapter 10 of Paradise Restored, which is The Great Tribulation. Too often, modern readers of the Bible interpret the Bible as if it was written directly to them, but David Chilton makes the point that the Bible—and eschatology in particular—must be interpreted in the terms of the original audience.
In the second half of their discussion, Gary DeMar and Gary North highlight the deep need for a comprehensive biblical worldview. Official mainstream "narratives" are increasingly being doubted and shouted down, but the alternatives seldom agree either. Syncretism and fragmentation are the worldviews of the day and only true Christianity offers a complete world-and-life answer to modern (and not so modern) societal ills.
Gary DeMar sat down with Dr. Gary North for an interview regarding theonomy, its critics, and its potential future. In this first part, Dr. North gives a high-level overview of the history of responses that have been leveled against theonomy for more than 40 years, and why they have never been very effective.
In Chapter 9 of Paradise Restored, David Chilton discusses the historic ending of the Old Covenant era with the destruction of the temple in AD 70. God sent prophets to Israel over and over again, culminating in the sending of His Son, Jesus. When the chief priests and Pharisees demanded Jesus’ execution they filled up the measure of God’s wrath and guaranteed the end of their manmade kingdom.
More gun control legislation and executive orders are being proposed by the Biden administration. Gun violence always seems to increase at the exact moment these bills are suggested, but with over 400 million guns in this country, the level of gun violence in the United States is actually quite low. Gary discusses the tyrannical nonsense of wanting to infringe gun rights as a response to criminal activity.
Gary answers a listener question about the future of education after so many students and parents have been exposed to a form of homeschooling thanks to the pandemic and subsequent lockdown. Could this be a turning point in our country?
In Chapter 8 of Paradise Restored, David Chilton discusses what it means that Christ is King and ruling in His Kingdom. Like a stone that becomes a mountain and like a seed that becomes a tree, Jesus' Kingdom is growing and increasing day-by-day. Jesus is seated on His throne and is ruling at the Father's right hand right now. With His atoning Death and subsequent Resurrection, Jesus has bound the strong man (Satan) and is plundering his house.
Are vaccine passports the "mark of the beast" from Revelation 13? Do we really need to find a prophetic connection in the Bible every time a politician suggests a new infringement to personal liberty? Gary discusses this topic and much more on today's podcast.
A recent article on The Gospel Coalition raises the question of theonomy and how Christians should respond to God's Law in the Old Testament. The discussion is nothing more than a re-hash of the same arguments made against theonomy nearly half a century ago. But the same overriding question remains: If not God's Law, what other standard is there?
In Chapter 7 of Paradise Restored, David Chilton discusses the fiery Glory Cloud that led Israel through the desert during the Exodus. The cloud was a theophany of the Holy God Himself and has important and significant attributes that we should recognize when we read the rest of the Bible. It was both a Guide and a Protection for the wandering Israelites… and for us today.
Gary discusses Revelation 20 and the enduring topic of the thousand years and the various millennial positions found among Christians. None of the positions base their view explicitly on the small amount of information found in Revelation 20, which means they look elsewhere in the Bible for support.
Gary answers a listener question about homeschooling. The pandemic has made this question more relevant and important than ever. Technology and available materials are at an all-time high and now is the easiest time to get started, but it still looks like a very big step to many people.
In Chapters 5 and 6 of Paradise Restored, David Chilton discusses the importance, and the biblical theology, of animals, trees, and land. Modern Christianity often has a worldview that more closely resembles Gnosticism, being skeptical of property and physical blessings. But everything God creates and gives to His people are a lesson about how to live and take dominion in God’s world.
Politics are a part of life. Christians can’t be involved in this world without also being involved in politics. The Gospel applies to every area of life, but it requires wisdom and discernment. A full-orbed biblical worldview has answers to every challenge presented by every unbiblical worldview. Christians must re-learn how to think biblically. Gary points the way forward in this talk given in McAllen, Texas.
The impossible goal of complete inclusivity through cultural diversity is getting headlines again with the Atlanta spa shootings. Racial differences are as unavoidable as intellectual and talent differences are among any group of people. Attempts to compensate for and legislate "equality" ends up becoming its own form of discrimination and hate.
For decades Christians have been enticed with the belief that they would be taken to heaven before a coming tribulation period in an event called the "rapture." Since the national reestablishment of Israel in 1948, countless books and pamphlets have been written defending the doctrine assuring readers that it could happen at any moment. It hasn't happened and it won't happen, because the Bible doesn't teach it. Gary explains the history of this damaging belief and how it has crippled the Church for far too long.
Gary riffs on one of his favorite side-topics: spiritual manipulation and magic. 19th century “spiritual photographer” William Mumler provides the entry-point into the discussion. Harry Houdini, Andre Kole, Danny Korem, Penn and Teller and many others have devoted a large part of their lives to proving that spiritual manipulators are simply using tricks and illusions to convince the gullible of their “mystical” powers.
AOC is repeating Bernie Sanders' rhetoric about the minimum wage, and how fast-food workers in Denmark make more than twice what they do in America. Raising the minimum wage raises the price of everything, not to mention taxes on both employers and employees. It's typical leftist economic propaganda that is designed to get votes, but has nothing to do with voters' "dignity," as they claim.
A long-term perspective is a necessary component of a Christian worldview. Unfortunately, too many Christians are not long-term thinkers and doers, and are influenced to inactivity by short-term pessimism. In this talk given at a church in Texas, Gary encourages optimism and invites his audience to consider the long view of biblical thought and action by drawing attention to a well-known passage that is often (wrongly) used to promote pessimism.
Gary answers a question from a listener about Perry Stone and his (and many other Dispensationalists’) major focus on the nation of Israel. According to Stone’s view, Israel becoming a nation again in 1948 is a very important indicator of end-times events. But is he correct?
In a recent talk that he gave at a conference in McAllen, Texas, Gary discusses the decline of the Christian influence on culture, science, politics, and American society in general. Christianity was once the dominant worldview in America, but that is quickly changing. What happened, and more importantly, why?
The Garden of Eden was located on a mountain. Moses received and gave the law on a mountain. Jesus, the new Moses, gave His law from a mountain. Mountains and minerals are very important in the Bible. David Chilton discusses both of these in Chapter 4 of Paradise Restored.
Also, listen and subscribe to Gary's other podcast, The Gary DeMar Blogcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-gary-demar-blogcast/id1555302876
Congress is getting ready to pass a $1.9T (that’s trillion!) pandemic stimulus bill. The amount of waste and debt wrapped up in this bill is unprecedented, even compared to previous government spending bills of waste and debt. What is really at stake here? Will these disastrous economic policies really have any bearing on you and your family? Yes they will, but not in the way we're being told.
Also, listen and subscribe to Gary's other podcast, The Gary DeMar Blogcast:
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-gary-demar-blogcast/id1555302876
A common assertion lately is that pastors should not be involving themselves or preaching on politics or current events. “Don’t cause division,” the sentiment goes, “just preach Jesus and love.” But Jesus Himself was both divisive and political. The Gospel brings division by its very nature. Jesus came as the fulfillment of everything written in the Old Testament and shook the paradigm of the leaders in both the religious and the political establishments of first-century Israel.
Also check out Gary's other podcast (produced in partnership with Canon Press): The Gary DeMar Blogcast.
In Chapter 3 of Paradise Restored, David Chilton writes: “Salvation restores man to his original calling and purpose, and guarantees that man’s original mandate—to exercise dominion under God over the whole earth—will be fulfilled.” Conversion is the first step in the process, not the process itself. Biblical salvation is for the whole man and the whole earth through the process of discipleship; it’s not just about making converts.
Reality and "truth" are being fragmented by modern political and social efforts and promulgated through the internet and social media. Non-Christian beliefs don’t and can’t offer anything in terms of a comprehensive worldview. Dr. Gary North joins Gary DeMar on today's episode with a discussion about today's fragmented world.
What is cultural Christianity and is it a good thing or a bad thing? Is its influence decreasing in modern American society? Should concerned Christians be concerned with culture anyway? Gary discusses an article that appeared recently on the Gospel Coalition website with the provocative title: All Christians are 'Losers.'
Interpreting the Bible properly requires a familiarity with the entire canon of Scripture, both the Old and New Testaments. Nowhere does biblical interpretation get more fantastic (and weird) than in the area of Bible prophecy. In this episode, Gary continues talking about David Chilton’s book, Paradise Restored, and how it points us in the right direction of interpreting the Bible on its own terms.
One of the problems with today’s movies and films is the lack of creativity. Modern filmmakers don’t have to worry much about constraints on their content, but real creativity needs these constraints. Cool Hand Luke is more than half a century old but it is a great example of excellent storytelling. While it is not a Christian movie in any sense, it uses a lot of Christian symbology to tell its tale. Christians need to re-learn how to interpret art through a Christian worldview. Cool Hand Luke is a good place to begin.
What’s the difference between eschatology and Bible prophecy? Does it make a difference what view you take in relation to future things? Gary talks about his experience sitting down with a seminary class and discussing various views on biblical prophetic interpretation.
There’s a lot of talk about "free speech" these days. But is it really? Speech is not free in the sense of being without cost; it’s free (at least theoretically) in the sense of being without restraint. But those who cry the loudest for "free speech" when they think their’s is being restrained, are also the biggest restrictors of speech when given the opportunity.
Should our faith influence how we think, move, have our being, and vote? Should Christians be politically motivated and seek to make changes in the world around them according to biblical principles? Or should we simply live out our faith quietly and privately before those around us? Gary discusses an interchange he had with “Chaplain Mike” on Facebook.
Science and simple observation tells us there is an obvious difference between the genders. Instinctively and empirically we know men and women are not equal when it comes to sports. Leftists claim to be "about the science" until actual science gets in the way of their political agenda.
Part One of David Chilton’s book Paradise Restored is titled “The Hope.” Gary discusses what true biblical hope looks like, as well as how singing the Psalms fits into an eschatology of victory. Christianity’s sure hope is rooted in the promises of God and the progression of the Gospel as it makes its way from the Garden to the City.
Listen in as Gary is interviewed on the Plow and Potato show. The topic is the relationship between individual households and the State. Who's in charge, and what's their jurisdiction? These questions and many more are discussed in this short but insightful exchange.
According to the prevailing view of eschatology, the Church loses here on earth. The world getting "worse and worse" is only a confirmation that we are closer to the end (of the church's losing mission). But just as Joseph, Moses, Daniel, Paul, and even Jesus himself were faced with overwhelming odds, God gave them the victory. Biblical history doesn't support a loser's mentality.
The parable of the vineyard owner that Jesus tells to the Pharisees and the chief priests is recorded in all three synoptic Gospels. The parable is both a condemnation of these leaders of Israel as well as a short summary of Old Testament history. It is essentially biblical history in 60 seconds.
Gary answers a question from a Facebook commenter regarding how we should understand the false teaching of Dispensationalism. Is it a heresy? Should we separate from those who proclaim and teach it? Tune in and find out…
Using someone else’s platform to get your message out is always a risk. Gatekeepers exist at every level and on every communication medium. Those who say they want free speech are often quick to silence alternate voices when given the chance. Christians should always be developing better methods to transmit the message without interference from the medium.
The ideology of the “swamp” isn’t only active in Washington, D.C. Every industry, institution, and organization has some sort of a swamp that is designed to keep the money flowing and certain people in certain positions. "Keep your mouth shut and do what we say" isn’t only for politicians and criminals; it’s how careers have gotten advanced since the very beginning.
Christians have a tendency to look back at the way things used to be as something to return to, rather than taking hold of the current work that needs to be done. The Israelites were no different. Gary gives several examples from the Old Testament that reveal that the way forward requires trade work by those skilled in building and crafting.
David Chilton's book 'Paradise Restored' is a great overview of the entire story of the Bible--from Genesis to Revelation. Gary and Eric discuss biblical theology and how it differs from systematic theology, as well as a plan to discuss 'Paradise Restored' on future podcasts.
Many Christians are disillusioned with the state of the world, politics, and culture. But every challenge is really an opportunity in disguise. It requires optimism and the belief that Christ’s Kingdom is actually conquering and defeating the darkness each and every moment—especially when it looks the most bleak.
The book of Judges, and especially the story of Gideon, is a lesson for us today. Political maneuvering and top-down strategies are not how biblical change comes in a society. Bottom-up change through a faithful remnant is the way God expands His kingdom. Our hope for the future comes through personal, family, and church obedience to the Gospel.
What is a legacy? Why does it matter? Gary discusses the legacy of American Vision and why it has been teaching and promoting the same basic message for 40+ years.
The Bible is the foundation for thinking and doing for every Christian. It must be internalized to be effective. In this episode, Gary discusses how and why to build a scriptural foundation in your own heart and mind.
What does it mean to have "vision"? Is it just a goal or is it something more? Using personal, historical, and biblical examples, Gary provides a clearer picture of what true "vision" looks like and why we should have it.
Too much time and money, we hear, are spent on the public side of the holiday — the hustle and bustle of shopping, the lavish decorations, and the often insincere displays of seasonal piety. Meanwhile, the true spirit of Christmas gets left behind. Some even argue that all public displays of Christmas are inappropriate.
Read the article on the American Vision website.
Like many in Israel at the time of Jesus’ birth, Christians today are looking for a political savior to rescue them and break the chains of tyranny. Christian leaders tell people to look up and ahead to Jesus’ second coming and rejoice that their “redemption is drawing near” (Luke 21:28). But was this the response of Simeon and Anna? Were they rejoicing in what God would do millennia in the future, or were they rejoicing about what God was doing then?
Read the article mentioned in this episode at the American Vision website.
Many people get bent out of shape when they see Xmas or X-Mas. They think it’s a way of removing Jesus Christ from Christmas. Every year you see the signs and the bumper stickers saying, 'Put Christ back into Christmas' as a response to this substitution of the letter X for the name of Christ. Nothing could be further from the truth.
Read the article on the American Vision website.
Gary joins The Schaftlein Report to give an election update on the four major states: Georgia, Wisconsin, Michigan, and Pennsylvania.
"Do not answer a fool according to his folly, Or you will also be like him. Answer a fool as his folly deserves, That he not be wise in his own eyes." - Proverbs 26:4-5
Gary DeMar is back on The Schaftlein Report to talk about the current update of counting the ballets and the media declaring Joe Biden the winner.
Who is the Antichrist? Is the Antichrist coming closer because of the results of the election?
What is the best approach when arguing with someone? Listen in as Gary DeMar gives a biblical approach to Apologetics.
Gary gives a brief overview of how to view tyranny from a historical and biblical perspective.
Gary DeMar gives more insight into being honest with history despite the common myths people are taught in education.
Gary DeMar kicks off the week debunking myths that Christians and non-Christians have believed throughout history.
Gary DeMar joins the debut episode of The Schaftlein Report, a division of Conservative Broadcast Media & Journalism. Listen in on a very important episode about the 2020 Election and the voter fraud that is happening in our country.
This in this episode, Gary gives his take on the Democrat Strategy that is being played out in this election season.
Gary talks about Election Day and the truth of Christians and conservatives not knowing how to fight. Winning a battle doesn't mean you won the war.
In this episode, Gary DeMar responds to Kevin DeYoung's article critiquing Rushdoony's book Law & Liberty.
Book Recommendation: Whoever Controls the Schools Rules the World by Gary DeMar
https://store.americanvision.org/products/whoever-controls-the-schools-rules-the-world?_pos=1&_sid=8cb056ffe&_ss=r
Gary DeMar gives a run-through of all the nonsense that is happening in the world this past week.
Gary reads some very crazy Facebook posts about whether Christians should vote for Trump or Biden.
We are one week away from election day! Listen to this very important episode from Gary on voting.
Restoring The Foundation Of Civilization is available now!
https://store.americanvision.org/collections/books/products/restoring-the-foundation-of-civilization
Gary DeMar discusses his brand new book: Restoring The Foundation Of Civilization. Available today: https://store.americanvision.org/collections/books/products/restoring-the-foundation-of-civilization
Gary talks about how the homosexual movement went from “sexual preference” to “sexual orientation” overnight when Amy Coney Barrett used “sexual preference” during her Supreme Court nomination inquisition.
Gary DeMar gives us the myth, lies, and half-truths about Christians not being involved in the culture.
Gary walks through a biblical reason why Christians should be involved in politics.
Book Recommendations:
God and Government: https://store.americanvision.org/collections/books/products/god-and-government
Myths, Lies, and Half-Truths:
https://store.americanvision.org/collections/books/products/myths-lies-and-half-truths
Topics discussed in Part Two with Hank Hanegraaff include where did the rapture theories come from and what is replacement theology?
Book Recommendation: Christianity and Civilization #1 - Failure of the American Baptist Culture by James B. Jordan. Can be found at www.AmericanVision.org
https://store.americanvision.org/collections/books/products/failure-of-the-american-baptist-culture-christianity-civilization-1
Gary DeMar gives us a history lesson on the Supreme Court and Presidential Candidates from 1980-2020.
Gary DeMar talks with Gabe Rench about the recent arrest that took place in Moscow, Idaho.
While the radical left political hypocrites are taking a day off, DeMar gives us an important history lesson debunking the myth of Columbus sailing across the Atlantic to disprove the Earth is flat along the way.
Gary DeMar joins the Hank Unplugged Podcast talking about all things end times and the major problems of Dispensational Theology.
The Democrats have shown inconsistently for a long time that the religion they claim to have is in direct contradiction to their policies.
It can't happen here. What policies do you want to see put in place in this country? DeMar gives insight to what the results will look like if Biden is elected by looking back at civilizations that we are familiar with.
President Trump is back in the White House and the left is furious. Gary DeMar walks us through the radical left's reaction and their intentions to take down the President of the United States.
In this episode, Gary talks about new "updated" monuments being funded, how to biblically get rid of injustice, and the insanity of so-called "Pro-life" Evangelicals voting for Biden.
Gary DeMar and Darren Doane have an important discussion on how Christians are to engage in the culture of 2020, worldview discernment, and the mask mandate.
Back in April 2020, Gary DeMar and Darren Doane sat down and talked about God and Government. What is sphere sovereignty? Is government only related to politics? How does God's Word define and talk about the realm of government? Listen in on this new episode of The Gary DeMar Podcast! Pick up Gary's book God and Government, a revised and updated edition available at AmericanVision.org. Also, be sure to look out for Gary's brand new book titled: Restoring the Foundation of Civilization: God's Government or Chaos, available in early September of this year!
Movies are a self-contained world. The writers and producers make the rules and the circumstances for the worlds they create. Most often though, films use the assumed order of the natural world and don't attempt to re-write reality for the viewer. Films either reinforce the real world or they rebel against it. Either way, they provide a great way to think through worldview issues and their consequences.
In this talk, Gary DeMar makes the point that classic movies are excellent teaching tools for a Christian worldview—for children and adults. Classic movies are often heavily dialogue-based, which provides a necessary counterpoint to the visually stimulating and soundbite-driven modern method of moviemaking. Real life is about real conversations, and classic movies provide a great virtual training ground for thinking and living in the real world of ideas and consequences.
Who inherits what we leave behind? How does our view of the future affect our attitude towards the future? Listen in as Gary DeMar talks about the Paralysis of Pessimism.
Gary is on Cultish exploring all the mysteries and complexities of "The Last Days". Why do people have such a fascination with the last days and how does has it played into Infamous cults like the Manson Family and the tragedy portrayed in the recent mini-series WACO?
Gary and Darren return for another round of controversial and hot button topics. This time they tackle the Antichrist and how to identify him.
The final part (for now) of Free Styling With Gary. Darren and Gary wrap up their conversation about major highlights of Bahnsen, defending the Christian Worldview, education, and so much more!
Free Styling with Gary takes a turn into the overview of Reconstructionism in Tyler, Texas. Who were the major players? What exactly is Christian Reconstructionism?
Freestyling with Gary continues with a conversation about one of the greatest apologists of the 20th century: Greg Bahnsen.
Van Til, Rushdoony, Machen, Schaeffer, North, Bahnsen. In this new series, Darren Doane makes Gary DeMar freestyle on topics and people with no prep.
An interview on authority and rebellion based on Psalm 2. All government begins with self-government. The less a society is governed from within, the more it will be governed from without.
The Peking Duck Syndrome is affecting the future of your family, the Church, and America. Christian and anti-Christian worldviews are at war and the conflict is raging all around us.
In this presentation, you will learn that America's moral and cultural crisis is the result of Christians not applying the Christian worldview to every area of life. Discover why there is no such thing as "neutrality."
While Christians stand by and do nothing, the other side is working feverishly to implement their godless, humanistic, destructive worldview. Watching from the sidelines is not an option.
Which worldview will ultimately prevail? Are you cooking the goose of the anti-Christians or are they cooking yours? Find out today...
Hear Gary DeMar and Robert Thomas debate the "end times." Two scholars defend their different interpretations of biblical eschatology. Listen in and make up your own mind...
Ideas and beliefs have consequences. What you believe about reality and the world around you influence and inform your actions. If your ultimate reality is that people are nothing more than the result of time and random chance processes, then one belief cannot be any more valid than any other. How could something like cannibalism be denied? And on what grounds?
In this next episode, Gary DeMar pushes hard on the atheistic/naturalistic view of the world. He shows that without an authoritative source of right and wrong (i.e., the God of the Bible), no behavior can be deemed wrong, no matter how revolting to our sensibilities.
If Scientists believe in evolution, why don't they practice what their faith preaches?
Atheism cannot account for rationality, love or morality. This does not mean that atheists are always irrational, unloving and immoral, but it does mean that they can't account for rationality, love and morality given their assumptions about the origins of the universe and our accidental place in it.
Atheistic evolutionists express moral outrage against murder and rape, but if evolution is true, how can there be moral outrage since it was killing and rape that got us where we are today as a species? Animals kill and rape every day. Why are killing and rape OK for animals but not for humans, who are only supposedly highly evolved animals? If evolution is true, at death we are nothing more than dust in the wind and in life we are nothing more than a bag of meat and bones.
In this 3-part series, Gary DeMar forces the evolutionist to live consistently with his stated materialist assumptions.
On this radio interview, Gary DeMar discusses the truth about socialism—what it is, what it isn't, and how to combat it. The promises of the socialistic agenda is always "free stuff," but the wary consumer should immediately recognize that nothing is free; everything comes with a cost.
The politics of envy and greed have been used to attract many people, especially young people, to the socialistic "gospel." In reality, socialism is governmental stealing with the authority of the law. And while it is generally portrayed as being a philosophy of "taking from the rich and giving to the poor," socialistic policies nearly always takes from the middle class and further widens the gap between rich and poor.
"But," some might say, "weren't Christians in the early church (Acts 4:32-37) essentially socialists, because they had all things in common?" Well, no, this wasn't socialism. Listen in on The Gary DeMar Podcast!
On January 21, 2020, Kent Hovind and Gary DeMar debated Daniel 9. Among other things, they discuss the rapture, the church age, the difference between Jews and the church, and many other standard dispensationalist interpretations of Bible prophecy.
Gary DeMar kicks off his new podcast series by allowing filmmaker, Darren Doane to grill him on Matthew 24 over the course of a few hours. Listen in on a brand new 3 part series on the most controversial and debated chapter in the Bible.