“Critical Grace Reality” (Illinois Family Spotlight #250)

Ever wonder why most secularists seem perpetually angry? Consider the possibility that they are trying to be justified by works–dry bones trying to walk around all by themselves. This phenomena is especially evident in Critical Race Theory (CRT), where people are either prompted to feel like they are the chosen “race,” or are told that they are inherently evil and can only be saved by keeping the “antiracist” law. There is no grace in CRT, only judgement and condemnation.… Continue Reading

PODCAST: Defying Scriptural Hierarchies in Every Way Possible

Written by Benjamin Smith

For better or worse, the Illinois General Assembly is back in session and a plethora of controversial, radical, and just plain ridiculous bills are scheduled for consideration. Monte Larrick and David Smith are joined by Jenna Smith, David’s oldest daughter, as they discuss the compelling reasons to retain the Parental Notice of Abortion Act. Jenna shares her perspective as an older teen and articulates the devastating mental, physical, emotional, and spiritual consequences that could impact young girls (17-years and younger) if parental notification is repealed.… Continue Reading

“Defying Scriptural Hierarchies in Every Way Possible” (Illinois Family Spotlight #249)

For better or worse, the Illinois General Assembly is back in session and a plethora of controversial, radical, and just plain ridiculous bills are scheduled for consideration. Monte Larrick and David Smith are joined by Jenna Smith, David’s oldest daughter, as they discuss the compelling reasons to retain the Parental Notice of Abortion Act. Jenna shares her perspective as an older teen and articulates the devastating mental, physical, emotional, and spiritual consequences that could impact young girls (17-years and younger) if parental notification is repealed.… Continue Reading

“The Nature of Gambling: Sin” (Illinois Family Spotlight #242)

Here’s a topic that appears to have been lost in the shuffle: gambling. But we are surrounded by a culture of gambling. Illinois recently approved a piece of gambling expansion legislation, which IFI and IFA fought against, but has now been encoded. On this episode of spotlight, IFA’s Dave Smith and Monte Larrick take a deep dive into the issues with gambling, and most importantly, what the Triune God has to say about gambling. Their guest is Mr.… Continue Reading

SPOTLIGHT: Jeanne Ives on the Importance of the Lesser Magistrate

Written by David E. Smith

Where do we go from here? Our state is currently suffocating under the weight of massive debt and failed Democratic policies. Yet, former state representative Jeanne Ives says there is hope for Illinois conservatives. She suggests the Republican Party focus on promoting truth, electing conservatives to local governing bodies and boards, and insisting on competency from candidates and government – some TLC, if you will. Jeanne also details the three big issues on which Republicans must stand in unity and gives insight on the compensation Illinois taxpayers pay our public “servants” (warning, you might need to monitor your blood pressure).… Continue Reading

“Passing The Buck: The Demand for Principled Lesser Magistrates” (Illinois Family Spotlight #235)

Where do we go from here? Our state is currently suffocating under the weight of massive debt and failed Democratic policies. Yet, former state representative Jeanne Ives says there is hope for Illinois conservatives. She suggests the Republican Party focus on promoting truth, electing conservatives to local governing bodies and boards, and insisting on competency from candidates and government – some TLC, if you will. Jeanne also details the three big issues on which Republicans must stand in unity and gives insight on the compensation Illinois taxpayers pay our public “servants” (warning, you might need to monitor your blood pressure).… Continue Reading

“How the Fight for Life is Impacted by The Election” (Illinois Family Spotlight #226)

We shine our Spotlight this week on an informative, post-election conversation between Monte Larrick and Eric Scheidler, Executive Director of Pro-Life Action League. They discuss our newest Supreme Court Justice, Amy Coney Barrett; the likelihood of repealing Roe v. Wade; bubble zones; and various issues that might be revisited by SCOTUS.

After the break, Eric details the Pro-Life Action League’s efforts amidst the pandemic. He also addresses probable and possible goals of a Biden presidency: reinstatement of Planned Parenthood’s Title X funding, repeal of the Hyde Amendment, a federal abortion law, and more.… Continue Reading

“How To Swing an Election, Illinois Style” (Illinois Family Spotlight #225)

Two hundred and two years after achieving statehood, Illinois – the Land of Lincoln – is more commonly associated with political and electoral corruption than with Honest Abe. Voter fraud is a sad reality that few people are willing to stand against, but, thankfully for Illinois, Carol Davis, chairman of Illinois Conservative Union, is fighting for a fair and honest election process.

Carol Davis joins Monte Larrick to discuss President Trump’s refusal to concede the election and disturbing voting irregularities in specific cities and states.… Continue Reading

“Election Fraud and Christian Patience” (Illinois Family Spotlight #224)

Written by David E. Smith

A week has passed since the general election and still, questions loom – among them, who and why? Election fraud has left the outcome of the presidential race (as well as other national and state contests) up in the air, and serious doubts remain as to the integrity of the voting and tabulating process. Many Christians are also wondering why God has allowed such confusion to happen and where is He in the midst of this political mess.… Continue Reading

“Watch and Pray: Previewing the 2020 Election” (Illinois Family Spotlight #223)

Election Week is finally here! On this edition of Spotlight, IFA Media Director Monte Larrick and IFA Executive Director David Smith look back at some of the outcomes, at both the state and national level, of the 2016 general and 2018 midterm elections. They consider various hopes and goals for a second Trump administration, as well as potential changes that might arise with a Biden administration. Closer to home, David and Monte also contemplate what the future might hold for the Illinois legislature and House Speaker Michael Madigan.… Continue Reading