Decline of Atheism and Materialism
Nowadays, perspectives like atheism and materialism—worldviews that dismiss mental dimensions and prioritize physical reality—are witnessing a decline. Interestingly, a large number of Americans still harbor beliefs in the supernatural.
This openness, however, has led to quite a bit of confusion. Many who identify as spiritual tend to reject traditional biblical interpretations regarding angels, demons, heaven, hell, and the concept of God as a Trinity. Instead of turning to scripture, they often seek guidance from tools like Ouija boards, tarot cards, and various media. These practices have surged in popularity, embracing trends aligned with New Age spirituality, which can often lead to occult practices.
So, what’s really the truth about the unseen dimensions of existence? What truly lies behind the miracles we see and the malevolent actions that sometimes occur? And why the sudden surge in curiosity about these questions?
To dig deeper into these topics, Glen Beck sat down with Lee Strobel, a renowned journalist, bestselling author, and Christian apologist, to discuss his book titled “Seeing the Supernatural: Exploring Angels, Demons, Mystical Dreams, Near-Death Encounters, and Other Mysteries in the Invisible World.”
Many are seeking answers in all the wrong places, but Lee is hopeful. He notes that a significant number of young individuals are eager to pursue the truth. “I enjoy engaging with youth. Their curiosity and questions are genuinely sincere,” he shared with Glenn.
It’s not surprising that both he and Glenn are captivated by interests in the supernatural. For one, how do we explain miraculous healings and instances of evil? These concepts are becoming increasingly challenging to overlook, especially as modern science ventures into realms of cosmology and biochemistry, making the existence of a divine presence feel more plausible than ever.
“I find that believing in God makes more rational sense today than at any other time in history,” Lee stated.
Currently, there are numerous accounts from individuals who have had clinical death experiences. Those who have come back to life often describe a remarkable experience where their spirit or consciousness seems to separate from their physical body and continues to exist, according to Lee.
Yet, rather than acknowledge an eternal soul destined for one of two outcomes, many hold onto the misconception that ghosts are stuck in a limbo and cannot transition into an afterlife. Both Glenn and Lee firmly dismiss the notion of lingering spirits, suggesting that what people perceive as ghosts might actually be “illusions created by demonic forces.”
Lee recounts heart-wrenching tales of individuals possessed by demonic entities displaying supernatural powers, such as levitating or casting spells.
He cautions against two extremes regarding demons: dismissing their existence entirely or seeing demons lurking everywhere.
Conversely, angels are frequently misunderstood. Many misguided spiritualists consider angels to be deceased loved ones, which Lee argues is equally misleading. Seeing apparitions of dead relatives when nearing death is common, yet biblical texts define angels as distinct beings apart from humans.
“People nearing death often experience visions of what is to come, including encounters with deceased relatives,” Lee references scripture to support this idea, sharing incredible testimonies from those who described unusual visions prior to passing, sometimes revealing information they couldn’t possibly know.
Glenn also shares his father’s peculiar deathbed encounter and recounts a childhood experience where his daughter met an angel.
“Angels are another creation of God,” Lee explains. “They are spirits—many of them, millions, in fact. The Bible of Hebrews notes that their purpose extends beyond serving God; they are also here to serve His people.”
The conversation progresses through various topics such as end times, the concept of guardian angels for individuals, the hazards posed by AI and technology, spiritual awakenings in the Middle East, among other areas. To hear the entire discussion, check out the episode above.
