Abraham Lincoln's 13-day train trip to Washington D.C. in 1861 was a perilous journey marked by assassination plots, treacherous terrain, and a divided nation. As he navigated the treacherous landscape, Lincoln's commitment to preserving the Union and ending slavery remained unwavering. His bravery and determination ultimately led to his historic inauguration, but the road to that moment was fraught with danger and uncertainty. [... more]

The Irish introduction to slavery began with Viking raids in the 9th century, with many Irish people being killed and enslaved. Later, the English colonization of Ireland led to the forced transportation of Irish people to the Americas, where they were sold as slaves or indentured servants. This period saw tens of thousands of Irish men and women being sent to the eastern American colonies, as well as Guiana, Antigua, and Montserrat. The Irish were sold for profit, with some being traded for tobacco and indigo. The English could kill the Irish without penalty, but selling them offered great profit, and this explains slavery throughout the world. [... more]

Human trafficking is a global issue that affects millions of people, with an estimated $236 billion in illegal profits annually. The Salvation Army is working to prevent trafficking and help survivors, including through education and providing safe spaces for those in need. [... more]

The Northwest Ordinance, signed in 1787, prohibited slavery and established a commitment to education in the new territories. This foundational law, which predated the US Constitution, set a standard for the country's expansion without slavery, reflecting the moral vision of life inherent to a Christian worldview. [... more]

The concept of lordship is central to the Christian life, where believers surrender their lives to Jesus Christ, recognizing Him as their master and Lord. This understanding is rooted in the Bible, particularly in 1 Peter 3, where Peter teaches the church to thrive in a chaotic culture by living a life of obedience, loyalty, and rejection of the world. The lordship of Jesus Christ is not just a theoretical concept, but a lived reality that requires believers to die to themselves and their desires, and to live under the authority of Jesus Christ. [... more]

Major Sandra Pawar shares her insights on the real human story of refugees, discussing the causes of flight, the church's role in responding with compassion, and the importance of education and understanding to combat stigma and misinformation. [... more]

Living as truly free people means more than just national liberty, it's about the freedom Christ gives, which reshapes the way we handle money. True financial freedom is not measured by what we have, but by what no longer has a hold on us, and it's possible because God is present, provides, and owns it all. [... more]

Being led by the Spirit of God means to be led into the Word of God and to obey its teachings. This is a fundamental aspect of Christianity, where the Holy Spirit enables believers to follow divine leadership and experience a divine relationship with God. Through adoption by God, believers become sons of God, inheriting the full rights of their citizenship in heaven and receiving the spirit of adoption, which allows them to cry out to God as Abba, Father, with intimacy and respect. [... more]

Mental health struggles in the church can be disunifying, leading to feelings of shame and isolation. Vulnerability and openness are key to healing, and the church can be a space where people can share their struggles and find support. By normalizing the idea that everyone is broken and can be vulnerable, the church can help people overcome shame and find healing through community and connection with God. [... more]

Matt Slick discusses his encounters with Eastern Orthodox believers, the movie Disclosure Day, and the concept of self-defense in Christianity. He also addresses the topic of slavery in the Bible, the violence perpetrated by Muslims, and the Hebrew Israelites' beliefs. [... more]

Ida B. Wells was a prominent African American journalist and activist who fought tirelessly against lynching and advocated for women's suffrage and self-defense rights. Born into slavery during the Civil War, she became a leading voice for African American rights in the post-Civil War period, using her newspaper to expose the horrors of lynching and advocate for the right to bear arms. Despite facing numerous challenges and setbacks, Wells continued to push for equality and justice, eventually helping to establish the NAACP and inspiring future generations of civil rights leaders. [... more]

Exploring the intersection of faith and social justice, panelists discuss how their relationship with Christ shapes their approach to helping others, particularly in areas such as human trafficking, homelessness, and mental health. [... more]

Jesus teaches that true freedom comes from abiding in his word and being set free from the slavery of sin. He explains that those who are not of God cannot hear his word and are slaves to their own wicked desires, but those who are of God can hear and respond to his truth. [... more]

The debate between Martin Luther and Erasmus on the concept of free will and its relationship to salvation is a matter of critical importance in the Christian faith. Luther argues that our salvation is the work of God, while Erasmus believes that it is something that can be accomplished by our own efforts. The discussion touches on the doctrine of election, predestination, and the sovereignty of divine grace. [... more]

The Bible teaches that Christianity is not a social issue, but rather a spiritual regeneration. Christians should not be preoccupied with changing their outward circumstances, such as marriage or slavery, but rather focus on spiritual obedience and living according to God's design. Paul's teachings in 1 Corinthians 7 emphasize the importance of maintaining one's social status and not creating social turmoil, while still living a life of obedience to God. [... more]

The Trump administration's Iran deal and its implications, J.D. Vance's involvement, and the controversy surrounding it. Additionally, the discussion of identity theft, social media bans, and censorship, as well as the UK government's proposed social media ban and its implications on free speech and identity control. Furthermore, the topic of Major League Baseball's Pride month celebration and the controversy surrounding it, including the display of Bible verses on players' caps and the issue of religious discrimination. Lastly, the discussion of terrorism, drones, and the threat they pose, particularly in the context of the UFC Fight Night event at the White House. [... more]

Elijah Lovejoy, a Christian pastor and abolitionist, risked his life to expose the brutal truths about slavery through his newspaper, The St. Louis Observer. His courageous stand against slavery sparked an uproar in St. Louis, but he remained committed to his principles, even in the face of mob violence and death. [... more]

Jesus teaches that our influence matters, and we should use it to bless others, not impress them. He also emphasizes the importance of forgiveness, faith, and obedience, and how these qualities can lead to spiritual growth and a deeper relationship with God. [... more]

The Bible teaches that Christians should view their work as a way to serve God, rather than just a means to a paycheck. This mindset can bring a sense of purpose and fulfillment, even in difficult or unpleasant work situations. By taking God to work with them, Christians can transform their jobs into opportunities for growth and service, and find joy and freedom in their work. [... more]

The Bible teaches that sin and self-centeredness lead to bondage and enslavement, but Jesus Christ offers true freedom through salvation. This freedom is not about doing what we please, but about doing what pleases God, and it is only possible through a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. [... more]

The Bible teaches that our work should be done for Jesus and for His glory, not for men or personal gain. Christians should view their vocations as opportunities to serve God and fulfill His will, regardless of their circumstances or the tasks they are given. By doing so, they can find true fulfillment and purpose in their lives, and their work will have eternal significance. [... more]

James, the half-brother of Jesus, was a bondservant of God and the Lord Jesus Christ, and his life is a testament to the radical transformation of a man who once denied Christ but now lives for Him, proclaiming the freedom of the gospel from sin and encouraging believers to apply their faith in practice. [... more]

Living your life in a way that leaves a compelling Christian testimony is crucial. In the workplace, this can be a stage to unfold the grace of God before unbelievers, making an impact and sharing one's faith. Christians are called to submit to their masters, work hard, and maintain a positive attitude, even in difficult situations, as a way to advertise the love of Christ. [... more]

The story of Cudjo Lewis, the last slave ship to America, and the community its survivors created in Africatown, Alabama, showcases a legacy of self-determination and defiance in the face of racism and hardship. [... more]

The War of 1812 had a profound impact on America, leading to the development of its national identity and economy. The Monroe Doctrine, which declared the Western Hemisphere off-limits to European colonization, became a cornerstone of American foreign policy. Meanwhile, the construction of the Erie Canal and other infrastructure projects transformed the nation's commerce and transportation networks, while the issue of slavery continued to plague the country. [... more]

Christ has set us free from duty to a code, allowing us to delight in the Creator and live by faith in the Son of God. We are reconciled to God, dead to sin, and alive to God, with Christ living in us. To stand firm in this freedom, we must contemplate and remember our status, draw near and abide in Him, and surrender to Him daily. [... more]

The complexities of American history and the ongoing struggle for reconciliation and understanding are explored in this discussion, highlighting the country's imperfections and resilience. [... more]

The concept of wanting less is explored as a means to achieve financial freedom and a more intimate relationship with God. Bob Loddick shares stories and biblical examples, including the rich young ruler and Zacchaeus, to illustrate the importance of contentment and releasing possessions. He also discusses the comparison trap and how it can lead to a loss of freedom, and provides practical advice on how to start wanting less and living a more simple life. [... more]

Ulysses S. Grant's early life was marked by his father's influence, who secured him an appointment at West Point despite his initial reluctance. Grant developed a love for horses and eventually graduated in a middling position. He met his future wife, Julia, and was shipped out to the Mexican-American War, where he learned valuable lessons from General Zachary Taylor. Grant struggled with depression and drinking, but eventually emancipated a slave and found his calling as a military leader during the Civil War. He led the 21st Illinois Regiment and eventually became a general, known for his calm and calculated demeanor. Grant's humility and respect for his former enemies were evident at Appomattox, where he allowed them to keep their guns and horses. His life was a remarkable turnaround from selling wood on a street corner to leading the US Army and becoming a US President. [... more]

Christians often get caught up in trying to keep rules and regulations to earn God's favor, but this approach can lead to spiritual slavery. Dr. Tony Evans explains that true freedom comes from a relationship with God, not from performing good deeds or following a set of rules. [... more]

Abraham Lincoln and Stephen Douglas engaged in a series of debates in 1858 that would shape the course of American history. The debates centered on the issue of slavery and the principles of democracy, with Lincoln arguing that slavery was morally wrong and Douglas advocating for popular sovereignty. The debates made Lincoln a national figure and set him on the path to the presidency, while also defining the American experiment as the pursuit of natural rights embodied in the Declaration of Independence. [... more]

Paul's teachings on Romans chapter 6 emphasize that true freedom is not autonomy, but rather slavery to the right master, Jesus Christ. He explains that everyone is a slave to either sin or righteousness, and that the key to freedom is a change of heart, obeying God out of love, and presenting oneself as a slave to righteousness, resulting in sanctification and eternal life. [... more]

Robert Smalls, a former slave, stole a Confederate warship, delivered it to the Union, and became a hero in the process. He went on to serve in the Union Navy, fight for black soldiers' rights, and become a prominent politician in South Carolina. [... more]

The issue of abortion has sparked a moral incoherence in American society, with some believing life is sacred yet rejecting consequences for those who take it. This parallels the moral evil of slavery, where compromises led to expanding the practice. Christians believe God is the ultimate moral standard, revealed in natural law and biblical revelation, and must push back against moral relativism to uphold God's clear moral standards. [... more]

Joseph's brothers come to Egypt to buy grain, unaware that they are bowing down to their long-lost brother, who has risen to become the Prime Minister. Joseph, exercising his authority, begins a calculated deception to test his brothers' character and faith, mirroring God's way of chastening his people. [... more]

Lantern Rescue is a nonprofit organization that exists in 18 countries around the world, partnering with local law enforcement and NGOs to combat human trafficking and provide support to victims. They work to rescue victims, provide resources and services, and hold traffickers accountable, with a focus on teaching communities to take care of themselves and prevent exploitation. [... more]

The Missouri Compromise of 1820 was a temporary solution to the issue of slavery in the United States, but it ultimately delayed the inevitable conflict. Thomas Jefferson wrote a letter to John Holmes expressing his concern and fear for the future of the country, warning that the issue of slavery would lead to the downfall of the Union. [... more]

Pastor Greg Laurie shares insights on how doubt can be a passageway to real growth and a stronger faith, using the story of John the Baptist and Jesus to illustrate the importance of understanding God's plan and having a personal relationship with Him. [... more]

Thomas Jefferson's ownership of slaves in a country built on Christian principles raises questions about the gulf between ideals and practices. His famous line in the Declaration of Independence, 'all men are created equal,' was an aspiration, but not yet a reality on the ground. Jefferson's views on slavery reflect the tension between ideational and sensei cultures, and his inability to reconcile his ideals with the practical concerns of his time. [... more]

The New Testament teaches that every legitimate kind of work or social function is a sacred calling from God, and that believers should approach their work with humility, reliability, and complicity, as if serving Jesus Christ, to fulfill their divine purposes and reflect God's glory. [... more]