Former US Ambassador to Israel Shares Spiritual Journey of Rediscovering Biblical Landmarks

In an exclusive interview with Charisma News, David Friedman, former US ambassador to Israel during the Trump administration, unveiled his personal journey of breaking through diplomatic norms to connect with the biblical heartland of Judea and Samaria.

Friedman’s insights resonate deeply with Christian supporters of Israel who view the Jewish people as God’s chosen nation.

Friedman, who took office as US ambassador in early 2017, was the first diplomat appointed during the Trump administration. Reflecting on his tenure, he revealed his initial shock upon discovering a State Department rule that prohibited US ambassadors to Israel from visiting places in Judea and Samaria—territories often referred to as the West Bank.

In an emotional account, Friedman highlighted the significance of these areas, which hold deep spiritual importance to both Jews and Christians alike. With more than 500,000 Israeli citizens living there, he emphasized their vital role in the modern state of Israel. Additionally, Friedman expressed his dismay that these biblical sites, rich with history and faith, were being overlooked by many.

“This is some of the most biblically significant territory in all of Israel,” says Friedman. “Places that you and I have studied and learned about since the days we began our Bible education. Maybe even more importantly, it is a place values brought our country to life, where they came from. Where the great messages, the great thoughts, the great prayers came from.”

One of Friedman’s most striking revelations is his decision to challenge the State Department’s rule and personally visit these sacred lands. Undeterred by potential obstacles, he recounted his determination to break free from bureaucratic restrictions, allowing him to personally experience the inspiration these places hold. He referred to his visit to Bethel, where the story of Jacob’s Ladder unfolded, as a poignant example of the spiritual depth found in the heart of Israel.

Friedman’s passion for fostering a deeper understanding between the Jewish and Christian communities fueled his ambition to create lasting change. Over his four years of service in Israel, he grew increasingly convinced that experiencing these sacred places was crucial to promoting understanding and unity.

“People that have been [to Israel] to Tel Aviv into Haifa, which are great places and important places to visit, haven’t been to Shiloh Bethel, Bethlehem, Hebron, Rachel’s Tomb,” explains Friedman.

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“They just haven’t been there, and they haven’t been able to make the essential connection between these places and the incredible biblical heroes who lived their lives there.”

To achieve this goal, Friedman collaborated with TBN and his friend Matt Crouch to produce a documentary. The documentary would feature a route stretching from Nazareth to Beersheba, encompassing the core biblical landmarks that hold immense spiritual significance. Joined by former Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, the documentary aimed to bridge the gap between the Jewish and Christian perspectives on these sacred sites.

The collaboration was met with enthusiasm, and the result is a breathtaking and thought-provoking documentary that showcases the beauty and spiritual resonance of these often-neglected areas. Friedman commended TBN’s commitment to the project, highlighting the extraordinary resources dedicated to capturing the awe-inspiring landscapes and the essence of the biblical heroes who once walked those paths.

“We had a film crew at every place. We had five or six cameras on every shot. The scenery is breathtaking, and that’s how this came about,” says Friedman.

Friedman’s account also touched on the personal impact these visits had on him, including a moving connection to Rachel’s Tomb. He shared the story of his granddaughter’s birth, which coincided with the observance of the day Rachel passed away, a poignant moment of joy amidst the tomb’s history of tragedy. He also recounted the heart-wrenching tale of a bride-to-be whose life was cut short by a suicide bombing, leading her family to drape Rachel’s Tomb with her unworn wedding dress as a tribute.

“It’s a wedding that never happened,” Friedman soberly recounted. “My cousin’s fiancé, the night before her wedding, was sitting with her a café in Jerusalem. [A] suicide bomber blew up and killed everybody inside, including the bride and her father. …The family decided that they would use her wedding dress that was never worn, and make it the curtain over Rachel’s Tomb, it continues to sit there to this day.”

In sharing his experiences, Friedman underscored the importance of building a connection between the biblical heritage of these lands and the hearts of those who hold faith in high regard. His journey offers Christian supporters of Israel a unique opportunity to deepen their understanding of the land and its spiritual significance, fostering greater unity and appreciation between these communities.

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James Lasher is Staff Writer for Charisma Media.




Navigating Hollywood’s Storm: Actor Kevin Sorbo’s Unwavering Faith Amid Cancel Culture

In a landscape where fame often comes with a price, actor Kevin Sorbo’s journey through Hollywood’s ups and downs stands as a testament to the resilience of faith in the face of adversity.

Sorbo, renowned for his role as the legendary Hercules, has opened up about the challenges he faced as he candidly expressed his Christian beliefs and conservative views in an industry that seemed less than welcoming.

Rising to international fame through “Hercules: The Legendary Journeys,” a show that captured the hearts of audiences for six seasons, Sorbo’s subsequent emergence as an outspoken advocate for his convictions marked a pivotal shift in his career. However, this shift came at a cost. The actor shares how he found himself navigating a path of professional isolation due to his openness about his political and religious standpoints on social media.

In an interview with Fox News Digital, Sorbo and his wife, Sam Sorbo, discuss their forthcoming movie, “Miracle in East Texas,” which draws inspiration from a true story. The film portrays the captivating tale of two con men seeking to swindle widows into investing in worthless oil wells. In that conversation, Sorbo recounts how his Hollywood journey took an unexpected turn, leading to his “blacklisting” within the entertainment realm.

“It was sad to me, you know, my manager and agent for so many years said that we can’t get you jobs anymore, work with you because of you being a Christian, being a conservative,” Sorbo reveals.

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The actor highlights the irony of an industry that calls for tolerance and freedom of speech while often failing to embody those values. This dissonance, Sorbo notes, is perpetuated by mainstream media and reinforced by movies and television.

However, Sorbo’s experience wasn’t confined to professional setbacks alone. The digital landscape also bore witness to a pushback against his viewpoints. “Facebook also took Kevin down, and LinkedIn took Kevin down,” Sam Sorbo adds. In a world striving for authenticity, Sorbo’s experience illustrates the challenges that emerge when one’s convictions clash with prevailing narratives.

Undeterred by the challenges he faced, Sorbo and his wife founded Sorbo Studios, an endeavor that aims to produce family-friendly, faith-based entertainment. As Sorbo acknowledges, the venture serves as a platform to advocate for values that align with their beliefs. The couple’s journey emphasizes the necessity of carving out spaces that honor faith while delivering messages of hope, love and redemption.

Reflecting on his life’s twists and turns, Sorbo shares insights into his journey of resilience and recovery.

A near-death experience due to an aneurysm led to a series of strokes, marking a turning point in his career. Sorbo’s faith in God, alongside his indomitable spirit and unwavering support from his wife, propelled him through a challenging path to recovery.

Amid the changing tides of the entertainment industry, Sorbo observes that the cultural shifts of the ’60s played a pivotal role in shaping the narrative of movies. He notes that Hollywood’s transition from celebrating heroes to highlighting anti-heroes had an enduring impact on storytelling.

In the context of faith-based films, Sorbo recognized a shift from once being perceived as “church-lecturing” to evolving into an inclusive genre that speaks to various facets of faith. While Hollywood’s general outlook has evolved, Sorbo’s journey remains a beacon of inspiration for those seeking to stand firm in their convictions, unyielding in the face of challenges.

As Sorbo’s story continues to inspire others, it resonates with the biblical words found in Matthew 5:10-12: “Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are you when men revile you, and persecute you, and say all kinds of evil against you falsely for My sake. Rejoice and be very glad, because great is your reward in heaven, for in this manner they persecuted the prophets who were before you.”

Sorbo’s journey serves as a reminder that the pursuit of truth and authenticity often comes with its own trials, but it also carries the promise of unshakable reward. In a world where cancel culture looms, Sorbo’s resilience shines as a beacon of hope, showing that faith has the power to endure and triumph against all odds. {eoa}

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James Lasher is staff writer for Charisma Media.




Outspoken Christian Quarterback Praises Anti-Trafficking Film ‘Sound of Freedom’

Miami Dolphins quarterback Tua Tagovailoa shed light on the team’s camaraderie beyond the football field. In a recent media session, the 25-year-old signal caller detailed some off-day activities, including a movie marathon that left a profound impact.

“It was like a movie fest yesterday,” he said. “Just movie hopping.” Amid the screenings, “Oppenheimer” made an appearance, but it was the film “Sound of Freedom” that struck a chord with him. He emphatically praised the movie, stating, “‘Sound of Freedom’ is good. Yeah, ‘Sound of Freedom’ is definitely really good.”

Encouraging the journalists to experience the film, Tagovailoa suggested, “You guys should watch that. Especially you guys with kids.”

“Sound of Freedom,” a film centered around child trafficking, has not only resonated with Tagovailoa but also captivated audiences globally. The movie has become a box office sensation, grossing over $173 million since its U.S. release in early July.

The film delves into the child trafficking crisis, narrating the compelling journey of Tim Ballard, a former U.S. government agent who courageously abandoned his career to rescue children from the clutches of sex traffickers. With stars like Jim Caviezel portraying Ballard and Mira Sorvino adding to the stellar cast, “Sound of Freedom” delivers a potent message about this pressing global issue.

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Even Baltimore Ravens star wide receiver Odell Beckham Jr. took to social media to share his sentiments on the film, remarking, “Sound of Freedom. I don’t even [know] what to say. That’s heavy.”

However, the film hasn’t escaped criticism and accusations of affiliations with fringe conspiracy theory groups. In response, “Sound of Freedom” director Alejandro Monteverde and co-writer Rod Barr penned an opinion piece for “The Hollywood Reporter,” staunchly defending the film’s apolitical stance.

As the Miami Dolphins place their trust in Tagovailoa for the coming seasons, his passion for raising awareness about important issues and sharing his faith in Jesus Christ extends beyond the gridiron.

Despite grappling with multiple head injuries in 2022, the former University of Alabama quarterback showcased remarkable resilience, achieving career highs in various aspects of the game, including passing yards, touchdowns and completion percentage. Notably, he also clinched the NFL’s top passer rating for the previous season.

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James Lasher is staff writer for Charisma Media.




I Was a Devout Cessationist; Then This Happened

When we decided to keep our church open at the onset of the government-mandated lockdowns due to the COVID breakout—out of necessity and caution—we started meeting in the parking lot, and we never could have imagined what God was actually doing.

A historically devastating tornado had just ripped through Nashville, Tennessee, the week before, and it obliterated large portions of our community in Mount Juliet.

At that time, Global Vision Bible Church was still meeting in our 300-seat chapel, which was the same building we used as a sanctuary for the homeless. We had a very small campus at the time, and it was honestly all we had to work with. We knew there was no way we were going to cancel church, nor would we curtail our emergency response efforts, so we decided to hold services in the parking lot and kept the chapel open to the people in need of sanctuary or supplies.

When the COVID mandates were first handed down, we honestly weren’t trying to be defiant. We were simply standing in obedience to God for the sake of the hurting and homeless in our community, so we had no choice but to push back. No mandate of man was going to stop us from obeying the Lord. We immediately realized that the Lord had set our church apart to stand firm while most others bowed to the powers that be, and we absolutely would not forsake “the assembling of ourselves together” (Heb. 10:25)—come what may.

When Resurrection Sunday brought a heavy downpour, and folks chose to stand out in the rain (which was a beautiful sight to see), I realized we needed to provide them with some cover, so we got a big tent that seated a whopping 650. We honestly thought there was no way we would ever fill it, but on the first Sunday—boom!—standing room only. We tried to ride it out with that size tent for about a month, but there were just too many people showing up.

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And we pressed on, eventually moving up to the 1,250-seat red-and-white striped “circus tent” made iconic by the global news media. It was honestly the only tent of that size that we could quickly acquire at a price we could afford.

By the time we extended the red-and-white tent to seat 1,550, I thought we would never need another tent. That thing felt bigger than Noah’s ark, and I honestly believed the crowds would soon start growing weary of all the scrutiny while meeting outside. The summer temperatures were in the high 90s, we could hear the roosters crowing next door, the police were showing up every week to deal with protestors, media cameras were everywhere, and the traffic and parking situation had become a nightmare. It was often overwhelming. I just could not see how we could possibly sustain all of it, so I took my prayer life to another level, and things began to break in me.

One day I was in my office being still before the Lord, and He started working on me in ways I never could have imagined.

Before this moment, even while the church was growing in biblical fashion, every time things would look like they were getting ready to break loose in the Spirit, I’d sheepishly hold it back. Without realizing what I was actually doing, I’d quench it. I’d be like, “No, uh-uh. I’m not allowing wildfire to break out in my service.”

In my office on that momentous day, as I looked out the window, God shocked me with the first open vision of my life.

When I looked out the window that day and scanned up the hillside, at first, I saw nothing but woods, but suddenly a clearing appeared—and on it was a massive white tent, twice the size of the former red-and-white one. It was a stunning sight, and it was as real to my eyes as the big circus tent. At the time I wasn’t at all interested in expanding the tent again. I loved that tent, but I couldn’t un-see what the Lord was showing me. So, I called the tent guys and said, “God told me to buy a big white tent that seats 3,000 people and to put it in the woods.”

To God be the glory, it all happened. We went from a 300-seat chapel to a 650-seat tent to a 3,000-seat tent in just over a year, and we have baptized more than 8,500 converts in a horse trough—because the gospel still works and the Lord still speaks.

At the time I had all the arguments against signs and wonders firmly in hand, and deliverance ministry wasn’t even an afterthought, as I had predetermined it all to be nothing more than foolish hyped-up “charismaniac” nonsense. But then God said, “I’m going to remove your denominational lenses, and I’m going to show you what the Bible really says.” He poured out His Spirit on me and our church (Acts 2:17).

The Vision Confirmed What God Was Already Saying

Our journey into deliverance started during a service just before the tornado tore down our tent. We were baptizing folks as we always do, and things were moving along beautifully—until the unthinkable happened. As embarrassing as it was, had it not happened, we wouldn’t be where we are as a church today.

A grandmother jumped into the baptismal pool, and to my surprise she had an 8- or 9-year-old girl in her arms. I’ve never performed a double-dippin’ baptism before, but I could see in Grandma’s eyes that she was dead earnest in her intent. She wanted me to dip them both at the same time, and I wasn’t going to embarrass that precious lady in front of the church or the folks on the livestream. I could sense there was something deeper going on, and I knew at the very least that Grandma was carrying a burden for that little girl.

As I put her down into the water, Grandma went under nice and smooth, but the little girl put her hands on both sides of that baptistery, lifted herself up and manifested a full-blown cat right in church, screeching and all. In that moment, I realized the little girl was manifesting a demon. She was hissing and even put her fingers out like claws. In all my years of ministry all around the world, I’d never seen anything like it.

At that moment, I was afraid of the little girl and what she might do next. She looked 10 feet tall and bulletproof. So we eventually helped Grandma and the little girl climb out of the tub, and I just tried to return to dipping folks as if nothing happened. I kept thinking in my head, “That didn’t happen, that didn’t happen.” Oh, but it happened!

That night things got serious in my house. As we lay in bed, Tai started weeping and said, “How could we not know how to help that little girl? We pastor a church—a big church, a successful church—we’ve got bestselling books, podcasts and 3 million followers on the internet, but we can’t even face a demon in an 8-year-old child?” We cried long and hard. Then we held hands and prayed about it and continued praying about it every night for two weeks, always weeping before the Lord.

We were praying about things that would risk all that the Lord had built during this amazing season of growth and revival, so it was a daunting time. Through it all, we learned that deliverance ministry will get practical quick and will suddenly show you what you have been missing in the Spirit—once you truly open your eyes. {eoa}

Cast It OutTo read more from Greg Locke’s newest book, Cast It Out, visit .

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Bridging Faith and Politics: Pastors Rise as Champions of Godly Leadership in North Carolina

In a resounding show of unity and commitment to restoring biblical principles in the face of modern challenges, legislators in North Carolina have taken bold strides to safeguard the sanctity of children’s lives and protect traditional values.

Defending Children From Radical Gender Ideology

With unwavering determination, members of North Carolina’s General Assembly exhibited unyielding resolve as they overrode multiple vetoes by Democratic Gov. Roy Cooper to pass three new laws that prioritize the well-being of children in the face of radical gender ideology. The legislature’s action ensures that children are shielded from the potential physical and psychological harm of unfettered experimentation with gender identity.

These new laws represent a direct response to the rising concerns of Americans who recognize the indisputable biological and physiological differences between men and women. One law prohibits biological males from competing in women’s sports, respecting the privacy and safety rights of female athletes. Another mandates that teachers communicate with parents about their children’s gender confusion rather than making secretive decisions regarding gender transitions. A third law prevents medical professionals from administering sterilizing drugs to minors, acknowledging the long-lasting consequences of such interventions.

Spiritual Warfare in Politics

The catalyst for this resurgence of Christian engagement lies in the efforts of David Lane, who has been working alongside pastors and spiritual leaders across the nation for two decades.

A pivotal turning point occurred when Lane collaborated with Mark Robinson, North Carolina’s first Black lieutenant governor. Robinson’s poignant statement reflecting his encounter with spiritual warfare in the realm of politics galvanized Lane to enact change.

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In response, Lane orchestrated a series of events, enlisting the participation of pastors and spiritual leaders. The objective was to inspire 20 to 30 of these leaders to seek local government positions. In total, Lane hosted 13 events, engaging 2,700 pastors and spiritual leaders. The fruits of these efforts were evident in the 2022 elections, with 50 pastors and spiritual leaders running for office and 10 achieving victory.

Christian Values as Cornerstone

The yearning for leaders who adhere to Christian morals and values has intensified as the repercussions of sidelining God in the public square become more evident. The American Renewal Project’s initiatives are intrinsically tied to the aspiration to reestablish the prominence of these values in society. Lane’s ambitious vision for the upcoming years includes an additional round of pastor events aimed at rallying 50 more pastors and spiritual leaders to run for local office across North Carolina in 2024.

A Call to Action for Every Church

Lane’s resolute belief in the importance of Christian engagement resonates with urgency. He calls upon every church to take a proactive role in safeguarding the nation’s future by identifying and supporting candidates who uphold biblical principles. Lane’s conviction is clear: If America is to be preserved for future generations, it is imperative that individuals of faith take on active roles in politics, ensuring that godly leadership remains at the forefront of the nation’s transformation.

The journey toward restoring America’s moral compass is a collective endeavor fueled by faith, conviction and a resolute commitment to biblical principles. As the American Renewal Project continues to forge new paths, its impact reverberates not only in North Carolina but across the nation, offering a beacon of hope for a future characterized by godly leadership and enduring values.

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James Lasher is staff writer for Charisma Media.




UPDATE: Glenn Beck Podcasts Reinstated by Apple

It appears the voices of millions upset by Apple Podcast’s decision to remove the Glenn Beck Program, in its entirety, was enough for the platform to reverse their decision.

Late Wednesday, Beck tweeted that his program had been restored, but questions still remained.

“Looks like Apple restored my 3000+ episodes to their platform but still don’t have clear answers as to why this happened. Hope to have an update for you tomorrow on radio,” Beck wrote.

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“I want to thank everyone (on the left, right and everyone in between) who spoke up today. I wish I had better answers from Apple on what happened, but you gave me hope that the issue of censorship is still bigger than politics,” he added.

This event shows just how terrifying and one-sided censorship has become in America. With the swoop of a simple button-click, one of the largest voices speaking against authoritarian control and evil in the country was silenced from one of the largest platforms.

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James Lasher is Staff Writer for Charisma Media.




Fellow Republican Slams Tweet Professing Faith in Jesus, Backlash Follows

What is the world coming to when a social media post proclaiming the only hope for the world is Jesus Christ is accused of being bigoted and should be deleted?

We are truly living in upside-down times.

Republican Ohio Rep. Max Miller found himself in a world of hurt late Wednesday night. Upon seeing a tweet from fellow GOP’er Lizzie Marbach which read, “There’s no hope for any of us outside of having faith in Jesus Christ alone,” Miller appeared to lose his mind.

In response to Marbach’s post, Miller wrote: “This is one of the most bigoted tweets I have ever seen. Delete it, Lizzie. Religious freedom in the United States applies to every religion. You have gone too far.”

Professing one’s personal faith in a public, online forum is now a hindrance to religious freedom?

The sideshow gets even more unpredictable after Miller’s post began going viral. Marbach found an unlikely ally in one of “The Squad”‘s most vocal members: Rep. Ilhan Omar, D-Minn.

“No! Stating the core beliefs or principles of your faith isn’t bigoted as Lizzie did, it’s religious freedom and no one should be scolded for that,” Omar responded. “It’s also wrong to speak about religious freedom while simultaneously harassing people who freely express their beliefs.”

Are we living in the twilight zone these days? Up is down, down is up, good is evil and evil is good?

Clearly, we are.

Receiving some backlash from her support base, Omar clarified her statement saying, “That’s her actual belief, you can disagree, but it’s not bigoted for her to say what her beliefs are. That’s all.”

Give credit where credit is due, Omar stood up for the religious freedom of a person whose faith is different from hers, and a Christian professing Jesus Christ as the world’s only hope, at that.

Miller must have seen the writing on the wall, because while he has yet to delete the mind-boggling tweet that started this hurricane of backlash, he posted an apology to Lizzie shortly after realizing how badly he had erred.

“I posted something earlier that conveyed a message I did not intend. I will not try to hide my mistake or run from it. I sincerely apologize to Lizzie and to everyone who read my post,” Miller wrote.

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Exemplifying the Christian nature in which Jesus commanded His followers to live, Marbach graciously accepted Miller’s apology, implored him to seek salvation in Jesus and posted the parable of the unforgiving servant to her timeline.

Yet one thing about this extemporary event does not make sense: why would a GOP representative attack a Christian professing their faith in Jesus in the first place?

Could this slip up reveal that there is a far larger portion of the Republican Party than suspected that holds an anti-Christian view?

Is the GOP simply using the faith, morals and values this country was founded on to appease their base and get elected into Congress so they can make their millions?

Another recent case of a Republican who tells the world that she is a Christian, yet her actions do not match up to those claims is Rep. Nancy Mace (R-SC). When speaking at a prayer breakfast, Mace joked that she gave up morning sex with her fiancé, but assured him they would have time later that night.

Is sexual activity outside of the biblical definition of marriage a joking matter for Republicans these days? Because it is very clearly practiced by those who claim to be followers of Jesus yet do not abide by His teachings.

Of course, no one is perfect. All have sinned and fallen short of the glory of God, yet there is a key lack of remorse or conviction on both Miller and Mace’s part that shows, as Allie Beth Stuckey pointed out in the wake of Mace’s faux pas: “These comments just go to show how little politicians—even Republican politicians—know or care about Christianity. They have no idea the values Christians hold.

“It’s honestly worse than Democrats. It’s better to deny Christianity altogether than to use Christianity as a campaign slogan,” she added.

If this turns out to be the case, and sadly the evidence points to that, where will these politicians who claim to be Christian stand as those who declare Jesus to be King become more persecuted?

History teaches us one thing, they will stand where it is most advantageous for their personal careers, which may be against those being persecuted.

As the world continues to prepare for the prophesied end times, persecution will come and it will separate the Christians who are rooted in Jesus and the Word of God from those who are not.

In the meantime, putting one’s faith in God and God alone is the only way to navigate these confusing and trying times. By staying grounded in the Bible, the faithful will have the discernment granted by the Holy Spirit to recognize the massive amount of deception permeating these times. {eoa}

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James Lasher is Staff Writer for Charisma Media.




Labor Day Conference 2023: A Gathering of Worship, Evangelism, Deliverance and Transformation

An extraordinary spiritual event will take place this Labor Day weekend, Sept. 2 to Sept. 4, at the renowned Global Vision Bible Church in Mount Juliet, Tennessee. Hosted by Pastor Greg Locke, this free admission conference promises a life-changing experience, combining elements of worship, evangelism, discipleship and deliverance.

The anticipation for this event is immense, with pre-registration already surpassing 6,000 participants and an expected turnout of around 10,000 attendees. This remarkable response highlights the hunger for spiritual growth, community and connection in these transformative times.

A Multi-Faceted Spiritual Experience

The Labor Day Conference aims to create a comprehensive spiritual experience, catering to various aspects of a believer’s journey. From vibrant worship sessions that uplift the soul to dynamic evangelism efforts aimed at reaching the lost, the event seeks to bring attendees closer to God and one another.

Discipleship and deliverance are core components of this conference. Attendees will have the opportunity to deepen their understanding of biblical truths and strengthen their relationship with Christ through insightful teachings and practical applications. The emphasis on deliverance underscores the importance of breaking free from spiritual strongholds and experiencing genuine freedom in Christ.

An Unwavering Commitment to Gathering

The conference will be held in a tent format, showcasing a commitment to creating a welcoming environment for all attendees, regardless of the numbers. Overflow tents featuring live preaching are planned to accommodate the anticipated high turnout, ensuring that everyone can engage fully in the transformative experience. There will be a live stream of the event available, too.

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Documenting Transformation: “Come Out In Jesus Name” Sequel

An exciting development during the conference is the commencement of filming for the sequel to the highly successful 2023 documentary, “Come Out In Jesus Name.” This documentary, capturing remarkable stories of deliverance and transformation, has resonated with countless viewers. The sequel’s filming will further highlight the profound impact of faith and the journey to liberation in Christ. The sequel is scheduled for a Fall 2024 premiere, and its production during the Labor Day Conference adds an extra layer of significance to the event.

Cast It Out: Pastor Greg Locke’s Book Release

In conjunction with the conference, Pastor Greg Locke’s highly anticipated new book “Cast It Out” releases the prior week on Aug. 29, 2023, with a LIVE Q&A event hosted by Locke at 4 p.m. that day. The new book promises to provide readers with insights, guidance and practical steps for breaking free from spiritual bondage and experiencing the fullness of God’s freedom.

Gathering for a Transformative Experience

The Labor Day Conference 2023 is not just an event; it’s a gathering of hearts and spirits seeking to draw closer to God and be transformed by His presence. With a combination of worship, evangelism, discipleship, deliverance, free admission and the excitement of documentary filming and a new book’s release, the event is an unparalleled experience that will leave a lasting impact on attendees’ lives. As believers come together under the tent, they embark on a journey of spiritual growth, renewal and empowerment that will resonate far beyond Labor Day weekend.

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James Lasher is Staff Writer for Charisma Media.




Conservative Voice Glenn Beck Deplatformed by Apple

“The Glenn Beck Program,” a show that prides itself on operating free of external influence or censorship on BlazeTV, has found itself caught in the crosshairs of Apple Podcasts, raising concerns about the targeting of conservatives by large tech corporations.

In a move that has ignited debates over free expression, Apple Podcasts has effectively deplatformed the show, preventing its latest episode from going live and scrubbing all previous podcasts.

The abrupt decision was communicated to the show’s host, the nationally syndicated radio personality and Blaze Media co-founder Glenn Beck, by the Apple Podcasts Team that there was an issue with his content that needed resolution before being made available on the platform.

Beck, a prominent conservative voice, described his suspicion that such actions stem from his show’s poignant coverage, speculating that the more they address subjects directly, the more these corporate entities appear to target them. Beck emphasized the lack of warning or prior strikes, leaving him puzzled about the basis for this move.

The episode in question, titled “Trump vs. Biden: Which is the Crime Family?”, seems to have raised Apple’s eyebrows, leading to a chain of events that many view as undue censorship. Beck questioned whether the content’s hard-hitting nature led to this suppression, a concerning prospect for a platform that had, until now, hosted diverse voices and opinions.

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The implications of Beck’s removal from Apple Podcasts are significant. With millions of listeners relying on the platform, this move translates to the loss of a major fan base and potential revenue for the show. Beck expressed his disgust over the treatment, emphasizing his adherence to the platform’s standards and rules.

The situation prompts the question: When did we veer away from being a nation that championed the right to express oneself, even if the views are unpopular?

Beck drew parallels between this scenario and the broader principle of freedom of speech. While acknowledging a private company’s prerogative to choose its business affiliations, he cautioned against the potential for this power to be misused. He questioned whether this move was a result of genuine company policy or a symptom of the growing tendency to weaponize authority against certain perspectives.

The reaction from fellow conservative commentators has been swift. BlazeTV host Steve Deace raised concerns over the “one-way” nature of such glitches, suggesting a possible pattern that stifles conservative voices.

As this situation unfolds, it raises broader questions on the role and responsibilities of tech giants ensuring open dialogue and a broad range of opinions. The balance between protecting against harmful content and safeguarding free expression is delicate, and the actions taken by platforms like Apple Podcasts hold far-reaching consequences.

TheBlaze reached out to Apple Podcasts for their perspective on the situation but, as of now, has not received a response. This incident serves as another chapter in the ongoing debate about the undue power tech corporations wield over the shaping of public discourse and the potential consequences of their actions.

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James Lasher is Staff Writer for Charisma Media.




Is ‘Euthanasia Capital’ Providing Frivolous Assisted Suicides?

The commission responsible for overseeing state-administered euthanasia in Quebec has issued a stern warning to doctors regarding the strict criteria that must be met for “medical assistance in dying.”

This move comes in response to reports of doctors not adhering to the established guidelines, leading to cases of euthanasia that were either unlawful or against the principles of medical ethics.

The province of Quebec has gained notoriety as the world’s “euthanasia capital,” with nearly 5,000 cases of doctor-assisted suicides reported last year. Shockingly, this number is estimated to account for approximately 7% of all deaths in the province by the end of the year, according to Dr. Michel Bureau, the head of Quebec’s Commission on End of Life Care. Dr. Bureau expressed concern over the frequency of euthanasia practices, stating, “We’re now no longer dealing with an exceptional treatment, but a treatment that is very frequent.” The commission has identified cases in which ineligible patients were subjected to euthanasia against the law.

Between Spring 2021 and 2022, at least 15 out of 3,663 state-facilitated suicides were reported to be non-compliant with the established criteria. Disturbingly, some patients had not satisfied the criteria for lethal injection, while others were unable to provide consent. Alex Schadenberg, Executive Director of the Euthanasia Prevention Coalition, has voiced concerns over the underreporting of unlawful euthanasia deaths.

The Canadian Supreme Court’s decision in 2015 to permit doctors to assist in patients’ deaths paved the way for the Medical Assistance in Dying Act passed by the Canadian government in 2016.

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Originally limited to individuals with grievous and irremediable medical conditions causing intolerable suffering, the criteria have since expanded to include individuals with various health issues such as PTSD, depression, anxiety and even non-terminal illnesses.

The recent adoption of a law in Quebec permitting euthanasia for individuals with “a serious and incurable disease, such as Alzheimer’s,” has raised further concerns among advocates for the sanctity of life.

The Bible speaks to the intrinsic value of human life and the responsibility to care for one another. Genesis 1:27 says, “So God created man in His own image; in the image of God He created him; male and female He created them.”

In response to these developments, the commission’s recent memo emphasized the need for physicians to rigorously uphold the established criteria and exercise diligence in evaluating patients’ eligibility for assisted suicide. The memo underscores the importance of critical and contemporaneous independent opinions from physicians confirming the admissibility of medical assistance in dying applications.

Debates around the ethical implications of euthanasia continue. The Bible’s teachings, such as in Psalm 139:13-14, remind us of the divine origin of human life: “You brought my inner parts into being; You wove me in my mother’s womb. I will praise you, for You made me with fear and wonder; marvelous are Your works, and You know me completely.”

Critics have expressed concerns about Canada’s Medical Assistance in Dying (MAiD) program, suggesting it echoes Nazi-era Germany’s eugenics program. As reported by The Blaze, “Dr. Louis Roy, speaking on behalf of the Quebec College of Physicians, told the government last October that babies with ‘severe malformations’ and ‘grave and severe syndromes’ should be eligible for the eugenicist’s needle notwithstanding their inability to consent.”

The comparison arises from the potential implications of MAiD’s expansion to include individuals with non-terminal conditions, such as those suffering from mental health issues or disabilities. Like the eugenicist policies that targeted the weak, the vulnerable and those considered unfit, critics argue that the broadening scope of MAiD could inadvertently prioritize a “quality of life” assessment, raising questions about societal values and the intrinsic worth of individuals.

As society engages in these discussions, it remains evident that the sanctity of life as ordained by God is a paramount consideration for many. The Bible further emphasizes this truth in Jeremiah 1:5: “Before I formed you in the womb, I knew you; and before you were born, I sanctified you and ordained you a prophet to the nations.”

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James Lasher is Staff Writer for Charisma Media.