The World and Everything In It 4.17.26 A candid account of abortion and backlash over blasphemy, revisiting a 2014 sci-fi film, and Quest with Cal Thomas
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Apr 17, 2026 
Cal Thomas, syndicated columnist known for decades of commentary, shares books that shaped his thinking. John Stonestreet, Colson Center president and cultural analyst, discusses Christina Applegate’s candid abortion account, backlash over a Trump-as-Christ image, AI anxiety among young people, religious liberty, and a revisit of the 2014 sci-fi film Edge of Tomorrow. Short, lively cultural analysis and conversation.
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Trump As Christ Image Rekindled Blasphemy Debate
- The image of President Trump depicted as Christ sparked widespread backlash and revived discussions about blasphemy.
- John Stonestreet saw the reaction as evidence many Christians still draw a clear line on idolatry and the holiness of God.
Political Idolization Mirrors Religious Blasphemy
- Equating public figures with Jesus reveals a cultural loss of reverence and an idolization problem across political lines.
- Stonestreet referenced past examples of presidents portrayed as Jesus to show this is a recurring cultural issue, not unique to one side.
Gen Z Anxiety About AI Reflects Digital Formation
- Gen Z shows notable anxiety and anger toward AI, reflecting broader mental-health and digital-formation problems.
- Stonestreet linked this to high baseline anxiety among 14–29 year olds and habits formed by screens, not just economic job fears.
