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This week on Conversations with Christians Engaged, we’re continuing our series going behind the scenes of America Reads the Bible — the historic public reading of Scripture coming to the nation April 18–25, 2026 live from Washington, D.C.

In this episode, Bunni Pounds talks with worship leader and songwriter Phil King about the calling behind Heal Our Land—the official song of the movement. Phil shares his unexpected path into worship leading, how God moved his family to Amarillo, and the moments that awakened his burden to pray for America.

He tells the story of how the Holy Spirit birthed Heal Our Land in a moment of concern for the nation, reminding him that “there is no junior Holy Spirit”—God can use anyone who is surrendered. Phil also gives a glimpse into the music video shoot, which turned into a two-day prayer meeting filled with intercession and God’s presence.

This conversation will encourage you to pray boldly and believe for revival in our nation.

Join us as we continue to awaken and empower believers to pray, vote, and engage — and get ready for America Reads the Bible 2026.

Learn more and participate: https://www.americareadsthebible.com

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▪️ christiansengaged.org
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SUMMARY:

BLOG INTRO:

But J’s life was about to be flipped upside down in a cruel and unpredictable way. God prepared her for the unthinkable when He spoke into her spirit before Hurricane Florence: “Get used to the idea that you don’t get to keep your son.” As the hurricane came near, knocking out power even before it came on land…(and then if you remember anything about Florence, the east coast experienced power loss for 2 weeks, some longer)…J became concerned realizing she hadn’t felt her baby in a few days. When the hospitals were finally up and running accepting appointments, her fears became a reality when they found no heartbeat. 

Forced to deliver her son as though everything were normal, she says, the delivery room was thick with peace. Nurses felt it, the custodian felt it—“like a warm hug.” As J prepared to leave the hospital God gave her a heads up on the battle that would be waiting for her.

When she walked out of the hospital, the warmth lifted. What followed were “angry prayers,” the kind you don’t think you’re allowed to pray. J reminded us that God’s a big boy, and that

We’re excited to bring you a fascinating episode this week! Doris welcomed Dr. Mikel Del Rosario, professor, author, and host of the Apologetics Guy podcast, to talk about his brand new book: Did Jesus Really Say He Was God? Making Sense of Historical Claims.

Many have wrestled with doubt or faced tough questions from loved ones about who Jesus is, did Jesus claim to be God, and the reliability of the Bible. This episode is packed with encouragement, practical insight, and real stories that will help you defend your faith with clarity, courage, and compassion.

Here’s what you’ll discover in this episode:

– What history says about Jesus’ divine claims Dr. Mikel Del Rosario gives an accessible look into how historians—including skeptics—evaluate Jesus’ words and actions, and why his claims to be God are both profound and credible.

– Why it’s OK to doubt—and how God meets us when we do Doris and Dr. Mikel Del Rosario discuss how doubt isn’t the opposite of faith, and how asking good questions can actually strengthen it.

– How to love and listen well in spiritual conversations You don’t have to be a Bible scholar to share your faith—just a good listener, willing to walk alongside others and meet them where they are.

– Practical answers to tough questions—from skeptics and other faiths From thoughtful responses to Jehovah’s Witnesses or Muslim friends, to talking with those who see Jesus as “just a good teacher,” you’ll come away empowered to share clear, respectful answers.

Resource Highlight: New Book! Did Jesus Really Say He Was God? is available now from InterVarsity Press (IVP Academic) and online retailers. This is not only for church leaders or professors—you’ll find it accessible, practical, and perfect for reading on your own or with a Bible study group.

000:00 Faith Conversations and Apologetics Insights

05:14 “Explaining Faith with Courage”

08:49 “Debating Jesus’ Divinity Claims”

15:25 “Faith, History, and Jesus”

16:49 “Jesus’ Divine Authority Examined”

21:32 Engaging Skeptics and Other Faiths

27:32 Eyewitnesses and Jesus’ Identity

32:13 Unexpected Messiah Revealed

32:47 Messianic Signs and Jesus’ Miracles

37:33 Listening First, Sharing Later

40:59 Faith-Building Resource for Groups

You can connect with Dr Mikel Del Rosario at www.apologeticsguy.com where you’ll find his book, blog, YouTube channel info, The Accessible Apologetics Workbook, and a plethora of helpful resources and recommended reading!

Dr. Mikel Del Rosario helps Christians find clear answers to tough questions about Christianity and explain the faith with courage and compassion. He is a Professor of Bible and Theology at Moody Bible Institute and the author of