Venezuela: A Historical Context Pt 1

The nation of Venezuela is a pretty hot topic these days – and rightfully so. The history of deadly drug trafficking into the US, the theft through nationalization of almost an entire oil industry and other factors have led to the recent arrest of Venezuelan president Nicolas Maduro.

Join Bud and his guest co-host Venezuelan native and Integrity member Omar Lugo, as they take a look back at the history of this wonderful nation that used to be one of the richest per capita in the world. Omar traces the nation’s ups and downs from as far back as the late 1800s, and bring us up to the late 1900s when the terms of presidents like Carlos Andrés Pérez and Rafael Caldera naively set the stage for events that would lead to the authoritarian rule of both Hugo Chavez and Nicolas Maduro. Omar outlines the collapse of freedom and the national economy, as well as the rise of communism, corruption, and an open border that would diminish a once strong national sense of morality.

Way back in the 4th century A.D. the birth of Jesus came to be celebrated on December 25 in order to align the Christmas celebration with pagan holidays and other celebrations that typically occurred around that time of year. At least that us what many Christians think. Is that really the case? Well, maybe – and maybe not. Kevin and Bud discuss some obscure historical research that sheds some light on this important question. Take a listen. You may be surprised!

In today’s podcast, the guys take on a topic that may seem a bit off-balance. Actor turned Evangelist Kirk Cameron, a solid follower of Christ and teacher, made waves recently when he cited a shift in his belief about the afterlife. Cameron noted a move away from the idea that those who die without Jesus exist eternally in torment in hell, toward the idea that ultimately, the unbeliever – their body, soul and spirit, is completely destroyed, and thus delivered from the suffering that would occur in hell.

Kevin and Bud discuss some of the merits of both sides of this issue, and reveal why this is an important topic that Christians need to have an understanding of.