We all have a bit of an actor inside us not the Broadway type or a movie star but the kind who can muster up some enthusiasm when we need to We might force a courtesy chuckle when someone tells a corny joke But when it comes to our Christian witness it's got to be the real deal It's not about putting on a show but about living a life of genuine faith Today on A NEW BEGINNING Pastor Greg Laurie shows us how to purify our character and let our light shine to those around us Become a Harvest [... more]

On this episode of Our American Stories in influenza swept across the world with terrifying speed killing millions Doctors were desperate to stop it but there was a fundamental problem they didn't even know what caused the flu Patients were subjected to bloodletting and enemas prescribed whiskey and even exposed to toxic factory gases while scientists pursued theories involving bacteria the weather and tainted Russian oats Somewhere among the confusion was a disease medicine could not yet see Dr Jeremy Brown author of Influenza The Hundred-Year Hunt to Cure the Deadliest Disease in History shares how scientists finally uncovered the [... more]

On this episode of Our American Stories Noah Webster believed winning the Revolution was only the beginning If Americans were going to become a truly independent people he thought they needed to stop speaking spelling and learning like the British So the stubborn and obsessive Connecticut writer set out to give the new nation a language of its own His schoolbooks taught generations of American children his spelling reforms changed the words they wrote and his dictionary consumed decades of his life Joshua Kendall author of The Forgotten Founding Father Noah Webster's Obsession and the Creation of an American Culture [... more]

Living a life that showcases the difference Christ makes is crucial for effective witnessing. The Holy Spirit empowers believers to interact with those outside the faith in a way that paints a picture of the God they worship. Christians must be courteous, compelling, and compassionate in their witness, adapting their approach to each individual's situation and needs. [... more]

Thomas Paine, the author of Common Sense, played a pivotal role in the American Revolution, inspiring Americans to overthrow the British monarchy and fight for independence. His writings, including The American Crisis and The Rights of Man, continued to fuel the fires of revolution, influencing not only the American but also the French Revolution. Paine's ideas about liberty, equality, and the rights of man continue to inspire people to this day, making him a true champion of human rights and freedom. [... more]

The story of the weapons used in World War II, including the development of intermediate range ballistic missiles and the atomic bomb, as well as the use of barbed wire, machine guns, and landmines, is explored through the epic storytelling of Stephen Ambrose. [... more]

Appleton Oaksmith's life was marked by controversy and transformation. Born into a life of privilege, he became embroiled in the slave trade, outfitting ships for the slave trade and even working as a Confederate blockade runner. However, he later underwent a remarkable transformation, becoming a pro-black civil rights politician in North Carolina. His story is a complex and intriguing one, full of twists and turns that span the entirety of the Civil War era. [... more]

Generosity is a characteristic admired by everyone, but not always pursued. The Bible teaches a biblical concept of generosity that permeates lives and the lives of other Christians. Dr. David Jeremiah explores what Jesus said about living generously, and how it's not just about financial giving, but about what flows from the spirit. [... more]

Charles Bowles, aka Black Bart, was a notorious stagecoach robber in the American West, known for his poetry and gentlemanly behavior. He robbed 29 stagecoaches, amassing a fortune, but was eventually caught and sentenced to seven years in San Quentin prison. After his release, he disappeared, leaving behind a legacy as one of the most fascinating figures in American history. [... more]

The Bible teaches that followers of Christ should pursue a reputation of gentleness, even when faced with difficult circumstances. This means being willing to yield to others, being courteous, and putting up with abuse. The Lord is near, and His presence should motivate us to respond with patience, kindness, and compassion. By living out these qualities, Christians can demonstrate the grace of God and advance the gospel in everyday interactions. [... more]

The value of true love is often misunderstood, as exemplified by a rare $20 gold coin that was hidden away for years. True love is not about possessing something valuable, but about living out uncommon expressions of love, such as courtesy, concern, and control, which are rare in today's world. These qualities are essential for demonstrating the power of true love, which is undeniably real and precious. [... more]

Oliver Halley recounts his experiences in the Vietnam War, including a pivotal moment when he learned his family's Jewish heritage, and how it shaped his life. He also shares his 28-year career with the FBI, where he worked to help others, and his experiences as a Vietnam veteran, including the impact of Ronald Reagan's dedication of the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. [... more]

As Christians, we are free to please God and serve others, but we must submit to secular governments and use our freedom responsibly. We are to honor everyone, regardless of background or status, and demonstrate a godly, respectful conduct in all circumstances, proclaiming the Lord Jesus Christ and displaying his transformative power. [... more]

Appleton Oakesmith, a man born into privilege, took to the sea and led the U.S. on a wild goose chase that became a political crisis in 1864. He was involved in the slave trade, worked as a Confederate blockade runner, and was eventually pardoned by Ulysses S. Grant. Oakesmith's life took a remarkable turn when he became a pro-black civil rights politician in North Carolina, advocating for black political rights and civil rights in the state legislature. [... more]

Benjamin Franklin's faith was shaped by his Protestant upbringing, which influenced his work ethic, moral code, and views on Christianity and deism. He believed in a God who rewarded good deeds and punished bad ones, but had doubts about traditional Christian doctrine. Franklin's faith was centered on virtue and moral action, rather than dogma or doctrine. [... more]

Peter Rosenberger shares his personal experiences as a caregiver for his wife, Gracie, who has undergone multiple surgeries. He discusses the importance of faith, theology, and music in providing comfort and hope during difficult times. Peter also reflects on the recent shooting at the Covenant School in Nashville and the impact it has had on him and his community. [... more]

Thomas Paine, a self-taught writer and philosopher, played a pivotal role in the American and French Revolutions. His influential writings, including Common Sense and The Rights of Man, advocated for liberty, equality, and the separation of church and state. Paine's close relationships with influential figures such as George Washington and Benjamin Franklin, however, were complicated by his outspoken criticism of organized religion and his own tumultuous personal life. [... more]

Christians are called to live in a way that makes them distinct from unbelievers, marked by loyalty, community, courtesy, and humility, as they seek to live out the gospel in their daily lives and interactions with others. [... more]

Boris Johnson, the former Prime Minister of the UK, shares his perspective on global politics, leadership, and the current state of the world. He discusses his experiences with Brexit, his views on Donald Trump, and the importance of a strong America in the face of global challenges. [... more]

Pastor Greg Laurie emphasizes the importance of being a positive influence in culture, living authentically as Christians, and being the 'salt of the earth' to stop the spread of evil. He also discusses the end times, eternity, and the return of Jesus Christ, using the analogy of salt to illustrate the impact Christians can have on the world. [... more]