The Greg Laurie Show

Has God abandoned Israel—or is the story of His chosen people far from over? In this thought-provoking episode of The Greg Laurie Podcast, Pastor Greg Laurie sits down with best-selling author, Middle East expert, and Bible prophecy teacher Joel Rosenberg for an honest, often humorous deep-dive into one of the most hotly debated questions in Christianity: Have the Jews been replaced by the Church as God’s chosen people? Together, Greg Laurie and Joel cut through centuries of theological debate, exploring “replacement theology,” the modern rebirth of Israel, and why understanding biblical prophecy is more relevant—and controversial—than ever. Drawing from real-world encounters with global leaders, first-hand stories from modern Israel, and fresh research into prophecy’s place in today’s world, this conversation reveals why the question of Israel matters for every believer. You’ll discover: Why so many pastors shy away from prophecy—and why Joel believes the Church can’t afford to ignore it. The explosive rise in Jewish believers in Jesus, and why this surge is reshaping what it means to be part of God’s family. How to share the Gospel with Jewish friends in a way that’s loving, respectful, and rooted in Scripture—not centuries-old stereotypes. Whether you’re wrestling with big questions about God’s promises, fascinated by the intersection of current events and biblical prophecy, or simply seeking wisdom for sharing your faith cross-culturally, this episode offers clarity, encouragement, and practical insights. Don’t miss this challenging—and hope-filled—conversation that will leave you rethinking what it means to be part of God’s unfolding story. Subscribe for more conversations like this, exploring faith, culture, and the tough questions that shape our world. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

What if the greatest threat to your soul isn’t outside—but hidden within your phone? In this thought-provoking episode, Pastor Greg Laurie exposes the perilous pursuit of self, the rise of artificial intelligence as a substitute for real relationships, and the crisis of faith facing our generation. Kicking things off with a gripping, real-life account of chaos at the White House Correspondents’ Dinner and an assassination attempt that rattled the nation, Pastor Greg draws a direct line between the anxiety saturating our headlines and deeper spiritual longings that technology can never satisfy. You’ll also hear a fascinating conversation between legendary music producer Rick Rubin and his podcast guest on Gen Z’s unexpected hunger for spiritual truth. This episode dives deep into: The dangerous “main character syndrome” driven by social media and why the worship of self has left Gen Z more anxious and lonely than ever before. The heartbreaking story of a teenager’s search for solace in an AI chatbot, and a sobering call to parents about the hidden risks of digital companionship. Why ancient wisdom from Psalm 27 and the teachings of Jesus offer lasting hope and courage for anyone facing fear, uncertainty, or the pressures of modern life. From practical advice on guarding your mind and heart to an inspiring reminder of the quiet spiritual revolution stirring among young people, you’ll be challenged and encouraged to anchor your identity in something far greater than technology or self. Ready to cultivate unshakeable faith in turbulent times? Subscribe for more conversations like this, and join us in exploring where real hope, resilience, and meaning can be found. CHAPTERS:00:00 Searching for Meaning Beyond Technology02:13 Shannon Bream’s Firsthand Account of White House Chaos04:12 Prayer and Preaching: The Christian’s Secret Weapons06:18 God’s Plans: “Thoughts of Peace, Not of Evil”08:10 Main Character Syndrome and Self‑Obsession in Culture10:09 What “Deny Yourself” Really Means14:15 Dangers of AI Companions for Young People16:07 Tragic Story: Teen’s Suicide After AI Chatbot Relationship18:11 Parents: Why You Must Snoop in Your Kids’ Digital Lives20:12 Seeking Divine Intelligence Over Artificial Intelligence21:00 Gen Z’s Nostalgia for the 1990s Explained24:01 Rick Rubin on Gen Z’s “Quiet Revolution” Toward Faith27:00 America’s Top Fears and the Power of Stress30:13 “Face Your Giants”: Overcoming Addiction & Adversity32:03 Choose Faith Over Fear: Psalm 27 Insights35:15 Whale Protects Marine Biologist From Shark—God’s Unexpected Providence38:39 The One Thing: Jesus, Not Main Character Syndrome39:39 “Seek First the Kingdom”—Finding True Balance40:05 Invitation to a Relationship With God Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

What happens when one of the most notorious mobsters in American history experiences a radical encounter with faith? In this gripping episode, Greg Laurie sits down with former Colombo crime family underboss Michael Franzese for an uncensored conversation about the Mafia, redemption, and the impossible power of second chances. Raised in the shadow of organized crime, Michael Franzese lived at the epicenter of the mob world—rubbing shoulders with legendary bosses, amassing wealth and notoriety, and ultimately landing on Fortune magazine’s list of the “50 Most Powerful Mafia Bosses.” But after years of violence, betrayal, and prison, his life took a dramatic turn: a solitary Bible in the darkest moments of his incarceration led him on an unexpected journey toward Jesus Christ. Explore: The making—and unmaking—of a mobster, from growing up with Sonny Franzese to becoming a “made man” in a secret Halloween ceremony. The high price of loyalty, the devastating costs of crime on family, and the shocking story of walking away from “the life”, despite deadly consequences. A raw account of hitting rock bottom in solitary confinement, wrestling with God, and discovering hope in Scripture that changed everything. The incredible redemption of unlikely figures, including Michael Franzese’s reconciliation with his own family, and how the power of prayer can reach anyone—even the hardest hearts You’ll also hear candid reflections on masculinity, fatherhood, and what it really means to be a “man’s man” in a broken world, plus why Hollywood both glamorizes and misrepresents the Mafia lifestyle. Whether you’re fascinated by organized crime, inspired by true stories of faith, or searching for hope for someone you love, this conversation will challenge what you thought possible—and encourage you to never stop believing in transformation. Subscribe for more unforgettable conversations that prove no one is beyond the reach of grace. CHAPTERS:00:00 The Mobster Who Became a Believer: Introduction02:11 Michael’s Early Memories of Mob Life07:00 Choosing the Mafia: Family, Loyalty, and Sacrifice10:21 Behind the Scenes: Realism in Mob Movies15:29 The Mafia Initiation: “Born Again” into Cosa Nostra17:45 Surviving When All Others Didn’t: Why Michael Lived20:15 Leaving the Life: Family Devastation and Hard Choices24:47 Betrayed by My Father: Facing Death in the Mob29:04 Solitary Confinement and a Bible: Breaking Point35:59 Proverbs 16:7—Finding Peace with Enemies in Prison41:21 Masculinity and Jesus: The Ultimate Man44:50 The Crisis of Fatherhood & Masculinity Today46:33 Camille’s Faith: The Strength Behind Michael48:32 Advice to Young Men Drawn to Crime53:09 Sonny Franzese’s Faith and Forgiveness54:41 No One Is Beyond the Reach of God56:20 Surprising Conversions: From Mobsters to Believers Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.