On this edition of Grace and Truth, listen as Craig and Paul discuss the state of Christianity in America and the takeover of Ramadi by ISIS.

The fight against ISIS in Iraq has encountered a dramatic set back. The terrorist organization has captured Ramadi, the capital of the Anbar province in Iraq. The seizure of Ramadi, a city just 70 miles from Baghdad is raising concerns as to the fate of Iraq.

Some have tried to downplay this latest development.

However, ISIS is now a more serious threat than ever before. Currently, ISIS controls nearly one third of Iraq and almost one half of Syria.

Iraqi security forces fled Ramadi, regrouped outside the city and are now planning a siege to take back the city.

The United States lacks strategy in the fight against ISIS in the Middle East and it has resulted in continued advances by ISIS.

“We have the best folks and the best gear in the world but we have no strategy.”

ISIS is continuing to overrun historic archaeological sites. The latest site to be captured is Palmyra a famous historic site on par with the city of Athens in Greece.

ISIS is continuing to destroy or attempt to sell any artifacts they encounter on their conquest of the Middle East.

“ISIS is known for destroying anything that goes against their radical view of Islam”

How can I pray?

•  Pray for the advance of ISIS in the Middle Easy to be stunted.

•  Pray for the United States to develop better strategy to help stop the spread of ISIS.

Religion in America 

According to a recent study conducted by Pew Research, the number of Americans who consider themselves to be Christians has dropped 8% over the past 7 years down to 71%.

Should Christians be alarmed at this seemingly dramatic decrease?

According to Craig, while this research is accurate and reliable, it doesn’t tell the whole story.

Additional research indicates that while Christianity has decreased the number of evangelical or Bible-believing Christians has increased.

One third of Americans now consider themselves to be born again Christians an increase from previous years.

More of the 71% of people who consider themselves to be Christians are describing themselves as committed to Christ than ever before.

How can I pray?

•  Pray for strategies on how Christians can intervene and spread the Word.

•  Pray for Christians to continue to commit their lives to Christ.

•  Prayer of thanksgiving for an increase in committed Christians.

ISIS takeover and the state of Christianity in America