Date: August 25, 2026
Host: Jim Schneider
Guests: Randy Melchert and Rick Bach
MP3 | Order
In many nations around the world, people are longing for the Scriptures. Many nations have forbidden the Bible and it’s a crime to possess a copy or to even have a Bible app on one’s phone.
Here in the United States, the Scriptures are readily available, Bibles are plentiful, and you can go to many bookstores or chain retail stores and obtain a copy. But amidst this land of plenty there is actually a spiritual famine in the land which has resulted in great biblical illiteracy.
Jesus says in Luke 6:46, “And why call ye me Lord, Lord, and do not the things which I say?” But friends how can we do what God wants if we neglect His Word?
An important question must be asked at this point: “When was the last time you read from the Bible?” Some of you can readily say, “I did so this morning,” or “I did so last night.” Others may say, “Well, I listened to my pastor read it this past Sunday. Does that count?” Yet others, if you’re being truthful will say, “Jim, it’s been a long time.”
At the same time, many have fallen into the habit of no longer carrying a Bible to church. Some folks just pull out their phones and there it is. Yet, their minds get distracted as a text, an appointment reminder, or a news bulletin comes in.
Dr. Woodrow Kroll, the former Bible teacher at Back to the Bible once said, “I remind you that God wrote a Book; and He only wrote one. I wonder what we’ll say to Him at the Judgment Seat of Christ if He asks us, “Did you read My Book? I mean one time in your entire life did you read My whole Book?”
Joining Jim to discuss this issue of biblical illiteracy was Randy Melchert. He’s a college debate national champion, earned a Master’s degree in Church History, graduated from the University of Wisconsin Law School, founded a Christian school in Milwaukee, leads tours of America’s spiritual history, hosts Our Christian Heritage on VCY.tv, and started ChristianHeritage.info. Randy is also a researcher and is a member of the VCY Board of Directors.
Joining Jim and Randy was Rick Bach. Rick is manager of the VCY Bookstore and is passionate about getting individuals in the Word of God and seeing them grow in their walk with the Lord. The VCY Bookstore is a resource center providing quality books and materials to serve churches and individuals.
Don’t pass on listening to this broadcast because the statistics aren’t encouraging. As Randy noted, from Baby Boomers down to Millennials, the percentage of people who take the Bible literally is down 46%. In addition, almost 60% of Americans cannot name even five of the Ten Commandments.
In light of this, it should come as no surprise that anxiety issues, depression, and suicide rates are skyrocketing among young people.
What is your Bible reading routine like? Could it use some improvement? Do you have a problem with consistency or even getting started? Get the help you need from this edition of Crosstalk!
More Information
The KJV Study Bible by Holman Publishers was discussed on this program. It has easy to read, bold, 11.5 type size, along with more than 14,000 study notes, articles, and other tools from respected Bible scholars. Also included are 94 full color photographs, 61 timelines, 58 maps, 20 articles, 19 charts, book introductions with book-specific outlines and timelines, Smyth-sewn, lay-flat binding, and a King James English glossary of terms. This Bible normally retails for $99.99. However, during our anniversary month (August ‘26) it is 55% off. That makes it $44.99 plus any applicable tax and/or shipping. It’s available at vcy.com or by calling 1-888-722-4829.
