With a Subtitle: A Biblical look at today’s headlines on religious freedom, AI, family, and truth.

A brief Excerpt: From Bible reading in Washington to religious liberty disputes, AI, abortion, church health, and cultural conflict, these headlines call Christians to discern the times through Scripture, courage, and grace.

The Author is: Jeff Hilles

Christianity Today – Religion is often left unspoken in the workplace despite widespread faith identity, research finds – A study by Professor Binna Kandola reveals a “faith gap” in UK workplaces. While 62% of the population is religious, 66% of employees feel uncomfortable discussing their faith. Despite employer confidence, many workers face subtle bias and exclusion, leading to reduced psychological safety and a lack of authentic inclusion.

Christian Post – Taxpayers funding illegal immigrants’ sex-change surgeries, cross-sex hormones in California: report – The Christian Post reports that California’s Medi-Cal program funds gender-affirming care, including surgeries and hormones, for low-income undocumented immigrants. While investigative reports highlight specific cases in San Francisco, state officials clarify that such treatments are only covered when deemed medically necessary under strict eligibility requirements.

Just the News – School districts pay more than $200k for retaliation against criticism of LGBTQ policies: lawyers – Two school districts settled First Amendment lawsuits for over $200,000 after allegedly retaliating against a counselor and a parent over LGBTQ policies. Indiana’s South Madison paid $195,000 for firing a counselor who exposed “gender secrecy” plans, while Nevada’s Clark County paid $10,000 for blocking a critical parent on social media.

Fox News – ‘America Reads the Bible’ kicks off in DC as hundreds gather on red carpet for weeklong event – “America Reads the Bible” is a weeklong event in Washington, D.C., where nearly 500 public figures, including Donald Trump
and Mike Johnson, are reading Scripture cover-to-cover. Held at the Museum of the Bible, the initiative commemorates America’s 250th anniversary and seeks to reconnect the nation with its spiritual foundations.

Crosswalk – What Are the Signs of a Healthy Church? – Based on the article by Robert Hampshire, a healthy church maintains four primary orientations: Ahead: A shared vision for multiplication, disciple-making, and developing new leadership to fulfill the Great Commission. Up: Christ-centered worship and biblical teaching. In: Genuine fellowship and small-group community. Out: Active ministry and spreading the Gospel.

Christian Post – Former archbishop of Canterbury blasts Hegseth’s ‘diabolical’ rhetoric, calls US political culture ‘demonic’ -Former Archbishop Rowan Williams criticized Secretary of War Pete Hegseth’s “diabolical” rhetoric regarding the Iran war, labeling U.S. political culture “demonic” for invoking God to justify violence. Williams’ comments highlight a growing rift among Christian leaders, including Pope Leo XIV, over the moral justifications for current military actions.

CBN News – Miss America Pageant Updates Its Definition of Female – The Miss America Organization recently updated its contract to define “female” as a “naturally born female” or an intersex individual with two X chromosomes. This change followed legal pressure and a public dispute involving Kayleigh Bush, a 2025 titleholder who refused the previous, more inclusive gender definition.

Answers in Genesis – Hidden Evolutionary Bias: A Dangerous Spiderweb – In this article, David Demick argues that evolutionary science masks deep-seated anti-biblical biases under a guise of objectivity. He recounts his personal journey from “origins agnosticism” back to young-earth creationism, warning that secular narratives act as a “spiderweb” designed to trap believers and undermine the authority of Scripture.

The Washington Stand – Mississippi Bans Abortion Drugs as ‘Continuing Threat’ of Mail-Order Abortions Plagues States – Mississippi Governor Tate Reeves signed House Bill 1613, banning the prescription and distribution of abortion-inducing drugs. Effective July 1, 2026, violators face up to 10 years in prison. The law targets mail-order pills while exempting treatments for miscarriages, ectopic pregnancies, and fetal demise to protect maternal health.

Christian Post – Supreme Court to decide if Christian schools can participate in pre-K funding program – The U.S. Supreme Court has agreed to hear a challenge against Colorado’s Universal Preschool Program. Two Catholic parishes argue they were unconstitutionally excluded for requiring staff to follow religious teachings on gender and sexuality. Lower courts previously ruled the state’s non-discrimination requirements are neutral and applied fairly to all providers.

Babylon Bee – Crippled Man Lowered Into Oval Office In Search Of Trump’s Healing – In this satirical piece from The Babylon Bee, a paralyzed man is lowered through the Oval Office ceiling in a parody of a biblical miracle. Donald Trump welcomes the “dramatic” spectacle, claiming his healing powers surpass the previous administration’s efforts while mocking Democratic healthcare delays.

Christian Post – John Piper warns AI can think but never ‘delight in God’ like humans – Theologian John Piper argues that while AI can process information and mimic thought, it lacks a soul to “see and savor” God’s glory. He emphasizes that human emotions, specifically joy in God, are essential to faith and unique to humanity, something no machine can ever replicate or replace.

Just the News – Trump scheduled to participate in Bible-reading event from the Oval Office – President Trump is scheduled to participate in the “America Reads the Bible” event on Tuesday. He will read pre-recorded passages from 2 Chronicles 7:11-22 from the Oval Office. The nationwide program celebrates 250 years of the Bible in America and features nearly 500 participants reading from Genesis to Revelations.

Crosswalk – How Can Christians Know if They’re Trapped in Culture Wars? – James Spencer argues that Christians often fall into the “culture war” trap by using worldly power and outrage to fix spiritual problems. Instead of adopting an “end-justifies-the-means” mentality, believers are called to prioritize gospel faithfulness, see others as image-bearers, and trust God’s timing rather than immediate political wins.

The Federalist – Here’s What Faithful Churches Need To Do With The Surge In Young Parishioners – According to Tina Cozby, churches must move beyond mere encouragement to retain the growing number of young parishioners. She argues for systematic discipleship and deep catechesis to help Millennials and Gen Z develop a consistent biblical worldview, preventing their faith from being diluted by secular cultural influences.

Prophecy Newswatch – Is Trump The Antichrist? A Biblical Reality Check After Tucker Carlson’s Warning – The article Is Trump The Antichrist? examines Tucker Carlson’s suggestion that Donald Trump’s self-exalting imagery mirrors biblical warnings. However, it concludes Trump fails the prophetic criteria—lacking global authority, a ten-kingdom confederacy, and the “mark of the beast” system—warning against misidentifying political ego as the true Antichrist.

Christianity Today – New study casts doubt on talk of religious revival in US – The 2025 PRRI Census of American Religion suggests US religious affiliation remains stable, contradicting reports of a revival. While 66% of Americans identify as Christian, weekly attendance hasn’t rebounded, and 28% remain unaffiliated. Notably, a widening gender gap exists, with young women increasingly likely to identify as non-religious.

Christianity.com – The Top 10 Questions Christians Are Still Debating – This article explores ten major debates within modern Christianity, ranging from theological mysteries to cultural ethics. Key topics include the response to same-sex weddings, the exclusivity of Jesus for salvation, the eternal fate of Judas, and whether practices like getting tattoos or using marijuana are considered sinful by biblical standards.

CBN News – German YouTubers Investigated for Insulting Islam Over Video Against ‘Demonic’ Antisemitism – Two Christian YouTubers, Niko and Tino, are under investigation by Hamburg prosecutors for blasphemy under Article 166 of the German Criminal Code. Their video, “Islam is no peace,” condemned “demonic” antisemitism following the October 7 attacks. Their lawyer argues the content is a protected expression of faith, not incitement.

Prophecy Newswatch – Young Men Are Becoming Increasingly Religious, Polling Confirms – Recent polling shows a 14-point surge in religiosity among young men (18-29), with 42% now calling religion “very important.” This trend, which flips a long-standing gender gap, is driven by a search for purpose and traditional identity and is particularly evident in Catholic and Orthodox church growth.

Christian Newswire – America’s ‘Most Stressed’ Generation Turns to Prayer, Faith – Gen Z, labeled the “most stressed” generation, is increasingly turning to faith and prayer to combat digital overload and secularism. Organizers of the Prayer at the Heart movement report a rising hunger for “real” community and spiritual stability, mobilizing millions to seek hope through traditional faith amidst AI-driven uncertainty.

Crosswalk – Tennessee Declares June as ‘Nuclear Family Month’ – Not LGBT Pride Month – Tennessee Governor Bill Lee signed a resolution declaring June as Nuclear Family Month. The measure defines the nuclear family as a husband, wife, and children, calling it the “bedrock of society.” While it carries no legal weight, the resolution serves as a countercultural statement during traditional LGBT Pride Month.

Graphs about Religion – The Myth of the Devout Immigrant – Ryan Burge’s article, The Myth of the Devout Immigrant, argues that immigration won’t reverse America’s secularization. Data shows immigrants aren’t significantly more religious than native-born citizens. Furthermore, they are becoming “nones” at similar rates, effectively assimilating into the country’s broader trend of leaving organized religion behind rather than stemming the secular tide.

Just the News – Israeli soldiers accused of smashing Jesus statue sentenced to jail – Two Israel Defense Forces soldiers were sentenced to 30 days in jail and removed from combat duty for destroying a Jesus statue in Debel, Lebanon. One soldier used a sledgehammer while the other filmed the act. The incident drew international outrage and a formal condemnation from Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

Crosswalk – Rising Violence Against Christians in Nigeria and Syria Sparks Urgent Calls for Prayer – In Nigeria and Syria, Christians are facing a “bloodbath” of escalating violence from Islamist militants targeting churches and villages. During Easter week 2026, over 60 believers were killed. Despite rising death tolls and the threat of capital punishment in some regions, victims receive minimal protection from their respective governments.

Denison Forum – “America Reads the Bible” continues in Washington, DC – The “America Reads the Bible” event is currently taking place at the Museum of the Bible in Washington, DC. Over seven days, participants read the entire Bible aloud from Genesis to Revelation. Author Jim Denison argues this public declaration offers spiritual hope and intrinsic authority to a broken world.

BBC News – Spat at, threatened and kidnapped: British Jews tell of rising antisemitism – British Jews are facing a severe surge in antisemitism, including threats, physical assaults, and arson attacks on synagogues. A recent BBC Panorama report highlights that rising hostility is pushing many to consider leaving the UK, as security concerns increasingly isolate the community in schools, workplaces, and daily life.

Prophecy Newswatch – The Crumbling Sham of Trans Medicine – The article critiques “gender-affirming care” for youth, citing a Finnish study and the UK’s Cass Review. It argues that medical interventions fail to improve long-term mental health or reduce suicide risks, claiming instead that gender distress is often tied to pre-existing, severe psychiatric conditions rather than biological mismatch.

Graphs about Religion – This is Not Simple Generational Replacement – Sociologist Ryan Burge argues that the American church faces an unprecedented crisis. Unlike past generational shifts, the massive Baby Boomer cohort, which has dominated pews for decades, is not being replaced. With Millennials and Gen Z showing significantly lower participation rates, denominations face a “startling” decline as Boomers age.

Christian Post – America’s real crisis is biblical illiteracy: A civilizational problem – Troy Miller argues that biblical illiteracy is a civilizational crisis, not just a religious one. He contends that as society forgets Scripture, it loses the moral “grammar” necessary for ordered liberty. Without this theological framework, concepts like justice and freedom become hollowed out, leading to cultural and institutional disintegration.

Denison Forum – Israel to promote LGBTQ festival near Sodom and Gomorrah – The Israeli government is promoting “Pride Land,” a four-day LGBTQ festival this June at the Dead Sea. Author Jim Denison notes the symbolic proximity to biblical Sodom and Gomorrah, using the event to critique secular morality and urge Christians to uphold biblical views on sanctity of life and sexuality.

Crosswalk – 5 Christian Figures React to Trump Post that Sparked Jesus Comparisons – Several Christian figures reacted to a social media post by Donald Trump that many interpreted as a self-comparison to Jesus. Albert Mohler labeled it “blasphemous,” while Allie Beth Stuckey urged more discernment. Conversely, Franklin Graham defended the post as an innocent mistake, claiming Trump likely viewed the image as a doctor.

Christian Post – Josh Hawley, Al Mohler discuss challenges facing ‘disaffected’ young men: ‘They feel shut out’ – Senator Josh Hawley and Al Mohler discussed the “disaffection” of young men, citing economic hurdles, social alienation, and attacks on masculinity. They argued that while policy must make milestones like homeownership and marriage achievable, Christians must also provide spiritual mentorship to help men find purpose and responsibility.

CBN News – Kenya’s First Lady Rachel Ruto Joins Melania Trump at White House: ‘America Needs to Stay in Jesus’ – Kenya’s First Lady Rachel Ruto
met with Melania Trump at the White House for a summit on child empowerment and AI education. Ruto discussed her “Mama Doing Good” foundation, which supports women through table banking and cycling, while urging America to remain grounded in faith.

The Washington Stand – Young Men Are Becoming Increasingly Religious, Polling Confirms – Recent Gallup data shows a 14-point surge in religious importance among men aged 18–29, reaching 42%. This trend contrasts with flat rates among young women. Experts attribute this shift to a search for purpose and traditional identity, driving increased engagement in Catholic and Orthodox churches across the United States.

The Baptist Paper – What is a transhumanist worldview? The answer explained at DBU lecture. – In a lecture at Dallas Baptist University, Max Baker-Hytch described transhumanism as a movement seeking “secular salvation” through technology like AI and gene editing. While it mirrors Christian themes of redemption, it prioritizes enhancing human capabilities over character transformation, urging believers to maintain moral agency against “technocratic” control.

Crosswalk – God and the Big Bang – Dr. James Emery White explores how the Big Bang theory, confirmed by the 1992 COBE satellite mission, aligns with theistic origins. By establishing that the universe had a definitive beginning roughly 13.8 billion years ago, the theory challenges “something from nothing” and points toward a purposeful creation event.

The Washington Stand – Supreme Court to Decide if Christian Schools Can Participate in Pre-K Funding Program – The U.S. Supreme Court has agreed to hear St. Mary Catholic Parish v. Roy, a case challenging Colorado’s exclusion of Catholic schools from a universal pre-K program. The parishes argue that mandatory non-discrimination requirements regarding LGBT issues violate their religious freedom by forcing them to compromise their theological convictions.

Christian Post – Council accused of ‘unprecedented’ use of powers to silence the Gospel – Colchester Council is accused of using a Community Protection Notice to silence street preachers from Bread of Life Community Church. While officials initially cited noise concerns, the church claims the order “unprecedentedly” targets theological content, including mentions of Hell. Supported by the Christian Legal Centre, the church is challenging the notice in court on May 1.

Decision – Christian Group Denied Public Space Seeks Federal Legal Remedy – The Christian group Mayday USA, represented by Liberty Counsel, has appealed to the 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals. They allege the city of Seattle practiced religious discrimination by denying them a permit for Pike Street, leading to a violent confrontation at an alternative location and violating their First Amendment rights.

Christian Post – Minn. DHS gave $2.5M to church run by felon, now suing for misuse of grants – The Minnesota Department of Human Services is suing Zion Baptist Church for allegedly misusing $2.5 million in grants. Led by convicted felon Brian Herron Sr., the church failed to document spending intended for community wellness. Officials call the lack of oversight and potential enrichment “morally unconscionable.”

Crosswalk – How Can Christians Know if They’re Trapped in Culture Wars? – The article warns Christians against being “trapped” in culture wars by adopting worldly tactics like immediatism and outrage. Instead of using political power to “fix” the world, believers are encouraged to prioritize gospel witness, compassion for others as image-bearers, and faithful obedience, even when societal issues remain unresolved.

New York Post – Physically healthy British mom dies by euthanasia at Swiss assisted suicide clinic – On April 24, 2026, Wendy Duffy, a 56-year-old British woman, died by assisted suicide at the Pegasos clinic in Switzerland. Though physically healthy, Duffy sought the procedure following the “irreparable” grief of losing her son four years ago, stating she could no longer find peace through medication or therapy.

CBN News – ‘There Would Be No America Without the Bible’: The Role of Christianity in America’s 250 Years – The “America Reads the Bible” event at the Museum of the Bible features nearly 500 participants, including Donald Trump
and Mike Johnson, reading Scripture aloud for a week. As America’s 250th anniversary approaches, organizers aim to highlight the Bible’s foundational role in the nation’s history and public life.

Christian Post – Planned Parenthood honors P!nk, who calls abortion giant’s staff ‘warriors’ – Planned Parenthood of Greater New York recently honored singer P!nk with the Champion of Change Award for her vocal abortion advocacy. While P!nk praised the staff as “warriors,” pro-life groups like Students for Life of America condemned the gala, citing record-high abortion numbers in the organization’s latest annual report.

Christian Newswire – AvatarJesus Launches AI Platform for Christians to Confess Without Church Membership – AvatarJesus.ai is a new AI platform launched by Lantern House LLC, designed for adult Christians to pray and confess privately online. The service aims to facilitate religious practice for those without formal church memberships, offering a free, immediate, and accessible space for honest self-examination and spiritual engagement.

Crosswalk – Kyle Idleman Warns: Christians Have Created a Jesus Shaped by Culture, Not Scripture – Pastor Kyle Idleman warns that many Christians have replaced the biblical Jesus with a “cultural” version—a life coach or political mascot. In his new book, The Missing Messiah, he argues this prevents true transformation, urging believers to move beyond compartmentalized faith and embrace the challenging call of discipleship.

Christian Post – Court requires bank to seize assets from Benny Hinn Ministries after failure to pay marketing company – A Texas court ordered the seizure of assets from Benny Hinn Ministries (World Healing Center Church) after it failed to pay PrintMailPro for marketing services. The ministry must pay over $144,000 in damages plus legal fees. This follows a similar $2.9 million judgment in 2021 involving another marketing firm.

Denison Forum – AI engine decides which religion is the most rational – An article by Jim Denison explores an AI’s conclusion that Christianity is the most “rational” worldview. The AI argued Christianity offers high explanatory power regarding reality and morality while requiring the fewest unsupported assumptions, specifically focusing its evidentiary burden on the life and resurrection of Jesus.

Prophecy Newswatch – Slippery Slope: UK Police Continue Efforts To Criminalize Public Preaching – The Bread of Life Community Church in Colchester is appealing a Community Protection Notice that restricts amplified preaching and certain theological content. While authorities cite “harassment and alarm,” the church argues the move unlawfully criminalizes the Gospel. The case, heard on May 1, 2026, could set a major UK precedent for religious expression.

Jerusalem Post – Nationwide Bible reading event marks 250 years of scripture in America – The Museum of the Bible is hosting “America Reads the Bible,” a weeklong event in Washington, D.C., marking 250 years of Scripture in America. Nearly 500 participants, including Donald Trump and Patricia Heaton, are reading from Genesis to Revelation to encourage biblical literacy and highlight faith’s role in public life.

Christian Post – Texas Baptists reviewing historic ties with Baylor U after approving LGBT ‘alternative’ to TPUSA event – The Baptist General Convention of Texas
is reviewing its 140-year relationship with Baylor University after the school approved an LGBTQ+ advocacy event. Executive Director Julio Guarneri cited concerns that the event’s speakers contradict biblical views on sexuality, prompting a formal study of the historic ties between the convention and the university.

Prophecy Newswatch – Lessons From Europe: How Islamic Mass Migration Has Reshaped The Continent – The article highlights warnings from Florida Governor Ron DeSantis regarding mass Islamic migration, using Europe as a cautionary example. It argues that liberal immigration and asylum policies have led to increased crime, Islamist terrorism, and the erosion of Western cultural values across Germany, France, Spain, and the UK.

Denison Forum – Supreme Court to decide major LGBTQ school case – The U.S. Supreme Court will decide if Colorado Catholic preschools can receive state funding while excluding LGBTQ families. The Church argues for religious freedom in admissions, while a lower court ruled that taxpayer-funded programs must be “open to all.” The decision will weigh religious autonomy against state nondiscrimination requirements.

Crosswalk – UK Pastor Arrested, Imprisoned, Interrogated for Preaching in Public – Pastor Dia Moodley, a Bristol-based minister, has faced multiple arrests and interrogations for preaching in public. Supported by Alliance Defending Freedom, Moodley argues that U.K. authorities are suppressing Christian speech regarding Islam and gender ideologies, raising significant concerns over religious freedom and the “pushing out” of Christianity from public spaces.

Prophecy Newswatch – The Growing Anti-Israel Animus & The War With Iran – The article argues that a necessary war with Iran is being undermined by growing anti-Israel sentiment in the West. It claims this animus is driven by educational shifts and political extremism, warning that if U.S. support falters, it threatens both Israeli security and the stability of Western civilization.

Christian Post – Aliens, UFOs and the demonic: Thinking like Christians about the weird stuff – The article explores a Christian perspective on UFOs and aliens, noting Vice President JD Vance’s interest in the topic. The authors suggest these phenomena may be demonic deceptions or mundane objects like drones, arguing that a robust Christian worldview views such “weird stuff” through the lens of Christ’s ultimate sovereignty.

The Washington Stand – Mass Immigration from Muslim Countries Has ‘Eroded’ European Culture, Threatens American Safety Next – This article reports on warnings from Florida Governor Ron DeSantis regarding mass immigration from majority-Muslim countries. Citing European “no-go zones” and rising crime rates in Germany, France, and the UK, he argues that importing cultures practicing Sharia law threatens American safety and erodes the foundational cultural bonds of Western nations.

Crosswalk – Am I Failing God by Getting Divorced? – The article reassures readers that getting a divorce does not mean failing God. It emphasizes that God’s love is unconditional, offering grace and healing rather than shame. While God values marriage, the text explores biblical allowances for divorce and underscores that redemption and abundant life remain available to everyone.

Just the News – Federal court upholds Texas law requiring display of Ten Commandments in public school classrooms – The Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals upheld a 2025 Texas law requiring public schools to display the Ten Commandments. Proponents call it a victory for religious liberty and legal history, while the ruling asserts that acknowledging the moral foundations of law is constitutional under the First Amendment.

Prophecy Newswatch – The Debate Over “Just War” – The article explores the Just War debate between Pope Leo XIV and President Trump. While the Pope emphasizes moral caution and St. Thomas Aquinas’s restrictive framework, the piece contrasts this with Jewish law’s “obligatory war,” arguing that defending citizens against existential threats is a moral necessity, not just a choice.

Christian Post – First trans-identified member of Congress claims to be a Presbyterian elder, ordained by Universal Life Church – Representative Sarah McBride
, the first openly transgender member of Congress, recently shared that she is an ordained elder in the Presbyterian Church (USA) and a minister via the Universal Life Church. The revelation has sparked debate regarding her ecclesiastical authority and the progressive shift within her denomination.

Christian Newswire – Family Research Council Responds to SPLC Indictments; Says Accountability Should Include Restitution for those Harmed – The Family Research Council (FRC) responded to federal indictments against the Southern Poverty Law Center (SPLC), which allegedly funneled millions to groups like the KKK. FRC President Tony Perkins called for restitution for organizations harmed by SPLC’s “hate group” labels, citing a 2012 shooting at FRC headquarters as a direct consequence.

Christian Post – Al Mohler says ‘confusion’ over role of ‘pastor’ threatens future of SBC – Al Mohler, president of Southern Baptist Theological Seminary, warned that “confusion” over the term “pastor” threatens the Southern Baptist Convention. He is urging for a bylaw amendment to clarify that the office is restricted to men, calling on the Credentials Committee to resolve the issue before the upcoming annual meeting.

Prophecy Newswatch – Christians Will Need Discernment And Discipline To Prosper In The Age Of AI – The article argues that as AI advances toward human-level intelligence, Christians must prioritize discernment and spiritual discipline. Rather than withdrawing, believers should “double down” on real-world presence, biblical truth, and community to resist the dehumanizing effects of automation and maintain their identity as image-bearers of God.

Crosswalk – How Can Christians Overcome the Darkness of Life? – To overcome life’s darkness, Christians must move from “sin management” to true freedom through honesty, confession, and community accountability. By bringing hidden struggles into the light—just as Jesus is light—believers can break the power of deception and walk in the spirit with transparency and hope.

Christian Post – Lutheran minister, congressional candidate performed satanist wedding, defended Wiccan prayer – Iowa state senator and Lutheran minister Sarah Trone Garriott is facing criticism during her congressional campaign for officiating a 2006 wedding for a satanist couple. Trone Garriott defended her actions as a ministry of grace to all people, citing her earlier support for religious freedom and inclusive Christian values.