Madison's Agenda

A Quaker Response

2009-07-17T13:05:00.002-05:00

In reading thorough some various works from the Early English Baptists I came across a Quaker reply to a declaration written by some Baptists against the Quakers. Although the piece is full of caricatures characteristic of the period the following quotation I found to be sobering. The desire of these early Baptists was to be biblical and to champion truth, something I hope we all as Christians desire. However, perhaps some of them only caught half of the message, that of religion and not of faith. The quotation below should be a reminder to all of us of the ethical demands upon believers and how an unlawful, disobedient lifestyle can render any work for the truth void.

And in your Post-script you say, you have under your hands sent forth your Declaration in behalf of your selves, and others of your Judgement; but I must tell you, I do believe there are some even of those called Anabaptists which will reject your work, and to them my answer is not, for I spare them: but to you fearful hypocrites in a time of danger, that have in this juncture of time renounced us without ground or reason in the sight of God, but for your ends, as if you would gain the favour of the Nation and City by denyal of us, and looking upon your selves to be reproached because of us, when as you are a company of unworthy men, even unworthy of our reproaches, and to escape them have denied us, as seeming to clear your selves, but you are deceived in this matter, and it shall turn to work against you in the Nation, and in the City; for we have a more surer witness in their Consciences, even in the Consciences of all people that we are of God, then you have; for take but away your outward water, and bread and wine, and some few outward practices, & what do you differ from the worst sort of men in the Nation; for doth not pride and hypocrisie, and self-love, and covetousness, and the love of this world abound amongst you, as much as amongst any others? the witness in peoples Consciences knows it, which shall be a witness for us against you. You may indeed have gained League with the worst sort of men in the Nation, but you have not gained the sincerity in people, and while we have that on our side to witness for us, take you the rude multitude, for we are not discouraged at all concerning this thing, but the rater do glory in the Lord though we be denied of all, for though men forsake us, yet the Lord careth for us; and your own doing shall return upon your own heads: and thus much is sufficient to the substance of your Declaration, and if I receive any reply, I shall expect it under the hands of you all, that I many further search and discover you unto your selves, and to the Nation. (Richard Hubberthorn, An Answer to a Declaration (London, n.p.: 1659), 19–20.)

So now faith, hope, and love abide, these three; but the greatest of these is love. (1 Cor 13:13).

Adoption as the Crowing Blessing

2009-04-10T10:10:00.005-05:00

This Easter let us once again reflect upon our Great and Good God who sent his Son to become our sacrificial lamb. By this sacrifice we can, as Paul says, "cry Abba! Father!" That is only through our adoption as children of God (Rom 8:15). I am in complete agreement with Packer quote by Cole:

Believers have not received the spirit of slavery but the Spirit of adoption (pneuma huiothesias, v. 15). This exalted status is "the crowning blessing" of the gospel, as J.I. Packer argues, while justification is "the basic blessing." This adoption not only brings status, it also brings a future.

Graham Cole, He Who Gives Life: The Doctrine of the Holy Spirit. Foundations of Evangelical Theology. (Wheaton, IL: Crossway, 2007), 269.

3:00 AM

2009-04-08T09:58:00.003-05:00

In honor of national poetry month:

Nightmares at 3:00 am

Make not good bedtime friends

Knowing what caused the child to weep

Consoles not my loss of sleep

Contemplating Christ

2009-02-13T09:45:00.001-06:00

The new year is well underway. My schedule has already been quite busy with no view of lessening in sight. However, today as I worked and Pandora was playing I realized I need to stop and contemplate Christ.

Worthy are you, our Lord and God,
to receive glory and honor and
power,
for you created all things,
and by your will they existed and were
created. (Rev 4:11, ESV)

Forgive me Lord for not contemplating your majesty more often.

Social Networking: A Tool not a World

2009-02-06T23:38:00.002-06:00

I am not a tech junkie. However, I have not been one to chagrin some new fancy gadget. This is the reason I have an iPod and it is also the reason that iPod is the mini from 2004. Some of my friends get the newest when they come out, I just like to have the best I can afford until it breaks. These serve me as tools for how I live my life and not the realm within I live my life.

Yesterday Facebook celebrated its 5 year birthday. I suppose that is something that is momentous for the social networking guru. I am sure it spawned quite a bit of conversation in praise for its success and I know it was a moment to draw criticism for its flaws. However here is my take on Facebook and its friends.

I joined Facebook about a year or two ago just because plenty of the youth and college students we worked with constantly on it. It soon became a daily ritual for me to check my account and see if I received a wall post or if someone had posted something new. Here I was able to reconnect with childhood friends as well as share the lives of my friends now. For me it became, and is, a medium in which I can extend the relationships in my life a little further.

Since this is how I use it of course I think it is the balanced view of this site and those like it. However, I have friends (I think we all do) whose usage of it goes far beyond a medium for extending relationships to a world in which relationships exist. We have seen them holding their blackberry’s, and iPhones waiting for the next status update or Tweet to come through oblivious to the world around them. In an instant they can “relate” to a variety of people in ways normal communication cannot.

This ability seems like it should be lauded. It is a momentous day in information. It is like reaching the new world, taking the first flight, landing on the Moon. It is a great advance to be able to communicate so rapidly and broadly. However in its advancement it has left the substance of what it was enhancing behind and created a world of shallow relationships and meaningless tripe, a second life prone to fantasy.

New Evangelicals

2009-01-23T11:59:00.002-06:00

Recently I have had numerous conversations about the term "Evangelical." It seems that there is a variety of definitions out there. All of which are molded by the ministries undertaken by the definers. Much has been said about this term, However allow me to point you to two resources:

http://www.civitate.org/2009/01/the-new-evangelical-scandal/ is an article from Houston Baptist University's Journal The City.

The other is a sermon by Dr. Jason Lee at Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary. http://www.swbts.edu/events/chapel_archive.cfm In this sermon Lee does not specifically address "Evangelical" but, through an exposition of 1 Cor 8, he addresses the libertarianism ascrbibed by some of these "New Evangelicals."

Materialism Kills

2008-11-28T15:33:00.002-06:00

Black Friday will forever have a different meaning for a man's family on Long Island. Read the Story here

The Top Ten Most Irritating Phrases

2008-11-07T21:03:00.002-06:00

The top ten most irritating phrases:
1 - At the end of the day
2 - Fairly unique
3 - I personally
4 - At this moment in time
5 - With all due respect
6 - Absolutely
7 - It's a nightmare
8 - Shouldn't of
9 - 24/7
10 - It's not rocket science

Inconsistency

2008-10-21T11:50:00.004-05:00

Then surely we must be the most inconsistent set of Christians in the world, to hold up the necessity of baptism by our profession, and yet when we come to the Lord’s table, practically deny it, by receiving those to our communion whom we do not hesitate to tell the world, we look upon as unbaptized persons; and so for the sake of holding free communion, we must “build again the thing that we have destroyed, and thereby make ourselves transgressors,” for once renouncing them.

Thomas Baldwin, The Baptism of Believers on, and the Particular Communion of the Baptist Churches Explained and Vindicated in Three Parts, (Boston: Manning & Loring, 1806), 36.

THE ESSENCE OF AN ORDINANCE IS ITS SYMBOLISM

2008-10-15T08:47:00.002-05:00

“Take, eat! They were not merely to look at the bread, even after it had been broken, and so had bee made to represent the breaking, bruising, suffering, dying of the Savior’s body; but they must take it and eat it; thus symbolically renewing that appropriation of the atonement which they are supposed to have made already, and without which they would have no right to the Supper. It is to be feared that many Communicants, even on the most Evangelical Churches, are so feeble in Christian character that, in eating the Bread and drinking the Wine, they do little more than to make an effort to remember the historical fact that Christ died for Sinners.”

DR. WILLIAMS’ NOTES ON MATT. XXVI: 27.

A Call for full Civil Rights

2008-08-29T22:04:00.004-05:00

MLK's niece in an article: http://www.onenewsnow.com/Politics/Default.aspx?id=232656

As King put it yesterday, "I know in my heart that if Uncle Martin were alive today, he would join with me in the greatest civil rights struggle of this generation -- the recognition of the unborn child's basic right to life. My uncle Martin would agree that we cannot end poverty, hunger, or suffering by killing those who might suffer. We cannot claim to guarantee equal rights if we deny the rights of the helpless. And we cannot feign ignorance of the fact that those who are torn apart, crushed, or left to die on an abortionist's table are just as human as we are."

Fatherhood and Lawnmowers

2008-08-28T09:41:00.002-05:00

In my emerging Journey my next stop is Blue Like Jazz as it has been said there are few evangelical college students who have not read the book. I am only in the beginning pages of the volume, so I will withhold any critique until the entirety has been read. However, it is interesting to note that the author, Donald Miller, was invited to pray at the Democratic National Convention this past week. If you are interested allow me to point you to the text of that prayer .

On a slightly different note I will comment on something Miller introduces. He speaks of God as the Father and then relates it to his experience with his Father. This got me thinking about my relationship with my sons. How am I sowing them what fatherhood looks like? Am I an example of Christ in their lives? Very sobering and serious questions. However, suffice it to say I should be happy that I am on the short list of the people in my oldest son’s life that he deems worthy to call by name, and not merely when he wants something. Curious who else is on the list? Of course there is his mother, his brother and his cousin who he adores. Then there is one more that I suppose should make me proud: Mr. Bruce, or Broose as he says. Bruce is our landlord, but more than that he is also takes care of our (his) lawn. So once a week he shows up with his lawnmower, weed-eater and blower to the sheer excitement of my son who at this young age is already showing his manly love of power tools! I couldn't be prouder.

Emergent, those are the guys with the candles, right?

2008-08-27T08:50:00.005-05:00

In college I was introduced to a book that challenged my thinking. It was a work that presented some questions to the way that my churches practiced their faith. Among these questions included some very radical views, for instance on revelation. What I did not know then is that that author would become (or had already become in many eyes) a leader of an ever growing movement in Christianity. His name is Brian McClaren and the book was A New Kind of Christian.

Since that time I have gone to seminary where I now have all the answers to all the questions concerning faith. Right. However, it ahs been a great time for me to grow in my knowledge of my faith and the revelation from God, The Bible. However, during this wonderful time I have come to neglect the thoughts of that movement known as emerging (to speak broadly while recognizing a difference between emergent and emerging). That neglect might come from sheer ignorance of its movement, it might have come from a reaction against some of its proponents, but in either case it has become ever present in our churches and I realize it is something we must engage.

So if you were to ask me what I thought of the movement a few months back I might have said I do not think it is good, but knowing I really was ignorant of the players in it let alone the ideaology they carried. To correct this error I have decided, amongst all my other readings, that I need to engage and examine these movers and shakers in the post-modern Christian culture.

To being allow me to briefly review a book by pastor Mark Driscoll from Seattle. This book is Radical Reformission: Reaching Out without Selling Out, Zondervan, 2004.

In this work Driscoll is attempting to change people’s minds about what missions is. Oftentimes missions is thought of as something doe over seas, foreign missions, but there is much to be said about the mission field in our backyard. This is the focus of being reformissional, which simply begins by a return to Jesus. Notice that it is not a reformation but more in line with a restoration of what the Church should be. One should look to Jesus as the example.

Much of his argument comes from the triumvirate necessity of Gospel, Church, and Culture. All surround love. Gospel is loving the Lord, Church is loving your brother and Culture is Loving God. He lists three scenarios of when one of these is missing:

Gospel + Culture – Church = Paracurch

Culture + Church – Gospel = Liberalism

Church + Gospel – Culture = Fundamentalism

These are three areas we need to be wary of. We must have all three parts in order to properly do the ministry Christ has called us to.

Much can be said beyond this in his book, but the idea centers around making sure the balance of all three of these parts are in place. For instance he mentions the poles of Traditionalism and Innovation. When one goes too far in one way the message suffers.

Reformission is about the old gospel answering without blushing the new questions that emerge from new cultures. Page 49

Another set of poles he mentions is Sectarianism and Syncretism. As Christians we need to engage the world but not become like them. We must stay between these two vices and seek the virtue culturally presenting the Gospel.

Driscoll’s message, although shocking at times, is one that is centered on presenting the gospel to anyone everywhere where they are. It is not so much about building bridges to culture as tearing down the walls we have built around ourselves from culture.

All in all I am looking forward to reading and listening to more of what Driscoll has to say.

This is the beginning of my journey into this very broad movement. Where I am missing something please correct me.

Useful Theology?

2008-08-10T21:26:00.005-05:00

Often times it is seen that Theology is for the academicians, those ivory tower intellects who have no means of touching humanity on the ground level. However, this is not so. In fact history shows us it was the practical issues of the times that lead to many important moments in Theology. Veli-Matti Kärkkäinen makes a good point about the formation of theology:

Academic theologians currently have a great deal of freedom to pursue their own, often idiosyncratic, questions, but when theologians are pastors who teach the people of God, it is left to congregations either to receive or reject new theories. Often the worship of God has been a guide to doctrine.

Christology: A Global Introduction p. 84.

A quote on experience

2008-07-25T11:30:00.001-05:00

"For example" is not proof.

Yiddish Proverb

Scriptural Exegesis

2008-05-31T22:01:00.002-05:00

Everything must be tempered because everything can become corrupt (everything created that is). This is especially true when it comes to the Bible. As a student of the Bible at an institution which stands by and for it, I am taught that the only way to preach is exegetically. A truth I do not negate. However, I was reading our Blessed Pope's book, Jesus of Nazareth, and came across his discussion on the 2nd temptation of Jesus in the Gospel of Matthew. He points out here that the Devil is using scripture against Jesus and then makes this quote,

"The fact is that scriptural exegesis can become a tool of the Antichrist."

Whereas I hope most would see the wisdom in this statement. It does serve as a warning for those of us who are trying to be faithful to the text. Who claim to preach the text and teach the text. We must have some theological framework in place before this exegesis can take place. Ultimately that framework derives from that same text it will be used to exegete. Moreover, one must consciously acknowledge this framework lest he fall into the errors of so many in the past.

Pope Benedict illustrates this point well,

"The alleged findings of scholarly exegesis have been used to put together the most dreadful books that destroy the figure of Jesus and dismantle the faith."

I hope you do not want that said of your ministry, I know I sure don't! Exegete well my friends.

Sanctuary

2008-05-25T19:07:00.000-05:00

When I was a boy I remember a man from our church weeping over the barred gates that “protected” our building. Like many buildings in South Florida the layout of the buildings were planned to face towards an open courtyard, similar to the quadrangles of colleges at Oxford and Cambridge. However, this style lends itself to security risks, which is why there were barred gates placed around the building. So why was this man crying? He was crying because those bars had to be there. He was crying that in a world of increasing pain and sorrow the one place he thought to be sacred was not.

Whereas the word sanctuary is most often attributed to a building or temple of worship it does have other meanings. One of which is a place of refuge, a place of uninterrupted security. In the Highlander movie the only place that these “immortals” could not kill each other was in a place of sanctuary. It is a sad commentary on our culture that these once sacred places, revered by even the worldliest, ungodly people, have lost that sacredness.

This fact has most recently and vividly come to my mind. This past Wednesday night, as my wife and I were attending a service with the youth of our church someone snuck into my wife’s purse and took her phone. At first we thought it was misplaced, but after seeing its use beyond the date it was discovered lost we knew someone had taken it. Sure we there is irritation at the person who took it, there is irritation that now someone’s selfishness is costing us more money, but the biggest frustration is that this happened at a “sacred” place.It is a reminder that our faith in Christ and our hope for his return is the only true security we have.

So now as a man I join in with the weeping man.

New Word

2008-05-24T21:21:00.002-05:00

Today I came across a word I have seen but never taken the time to look up. Thanks to the folks at dictionary.com here is the word and helping definition:

Scholion

Scho"li*on\, n. [NL.] A scholium.
A judgment which follows immediately from another is sometimes called a corollary, or consectary . . . One which illustrates the science where it appears, but is not an integral part of it, is a scholion. --Abp. Thomson (Laws of Thought).
Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary, © 1996, 1998 MICRA, Inc.

www.dictionary.com

Another Boy

2007-11-01T09:51:00.000-05:00

For those of you who read this and do not already know, we found out last week that we are having another boy. William will have a brother and we are pretty sure his name will be Tyler Augustine Grace.

With the growth of our family in such a short period (within 14 months we will have doubled in size) I have taken time to reflect on my duty as a Father and as a Husband. The world views of the cultures I have lived in, even the “Christian” ones, remain quite selfish. This is especially true in regards to families.

We have a tremendous opportunity to shape and encourage our families. It is my prayer that I shed any selfishness and be the man to lead my family, especially in spiritual matters.

If you have not already read Malcolm Yarnell’s paper on family worship then go here and read it. It is quite practical coming from a man who lives out what he says.

Why go to church?

2007-10-31T13:39:00.000-05:00

For many believer’s it is a non-issue to make a decision about going to church on Sunday morning, or at least that is how it appears to me. Of course I am talking about those who are truly saved and not the nominal Christian, of whom we are glad to come to church and pray for their conversion, but without the Holy Spirit lack the indwelling presence that motivates that heart to join with other believers.

However, it is nice every now and again to remind yourself why you gather on Sunday morning when you could sleep in and spend all day unshaven in front of the TV watching football.

Consider the following quote from Elias Keach in England, 1697.

“Brethern (as a worthy Divine observes) the Church in her publick Worship is the nearest Resemblance of Heaven, especially in Singing God’s Praises. What Esteem also had God’s Worthies of old, for God’s publick Worship? My Soul longeth, yea, even fainteth for the Courts of the Lord. How amiable are they Tabernacles, O Lord of Hosts! Psal. 84.1,2.”

Elias Keach. The Glory and Ornament of a True Gospel-constituted Church…

The Gospel

2007-10-10T12:32:00.000-05:00

Early this year I began a conversation with some of my friends over the issue of preaching and the gospel. Through that conversation I think it is appropriate to ask the question: what is the gospel? When we use the word gospel what do we mean? As Christians? As Evangelicals or Baptists?

The use of the word seems to be all around us without any definitions. We know it comes from euangelion and means good news, but have we really spent time contemplating what we mean by "gospel? When we say we are doing something for the gospel?

Help me think through this issue and let us come to a more definitive usage of the word gospel.

Prescriptive History

2007-06-07T09:02:00.000-05:00

In my studies I have come across a book that has been recommended that I read. It is unimportant as to what book and what authors contributed to this book for our topic. However I will briefly tell you it is a book that looks at theology as seen throughout the SBC. This book is not a difficult read, one could breeze through it in an hour or two if a quiet opportunity presented itself. The content is not bad at all, in fact it is slightly informative and some chapters are quite well done.

What is the problem with this book and many like it? The problem comes through the premise, generally, that by studying a few characters in history one can ascertain what people believed, whether it be religiously, socially or politically. It should be apparent that this line of reasoning is extremely misleading. As much as one may like or support some leader in history, it should not leave people to believe that the populace that followed said leader would be in 100 percent agreement with the beliefs which he held. In fact it is more appropriate to realize that most would not agree with a large minority of what the person believed and might even possibly agree with a large minority of what his opponents believed or some mixture therein.

There also is another problem that can be seen through this methodology. An implicit premise is held that for any group, institution, or movement that by looking back on history a clear path of belief must be set. For instance, as Baptists there are groups out there who love to look back and say, “we did not believe this way, therefore we should not believe this way.” This argument is greatly used in the Calvinist/Arminian debate. Some, the Calvinists, look back to some figures in Baptist history that were Calvinistic and stake their Baptist Theology claim in these giants of the faith. Yet, the same argument is made from the Arminian side by those who find their own heroes of the faith in history and stake the claim upon those fellows. Then you back up a few feet and see that there were both Calvinists and Arminians at different points in history and even contemporaneously. Furthermore, you see that there are other options in this debate that can be held “traditionally” and the water becomes even more muddied and you are left with the question “what is right?”

Well the answer to that question should arise once it is seen what is truly going on and that is something called prescriptive history. This is the belief that if we see a belief in the history of our group then we should believe it. History becomes prescriptive. It is another appeal to tradition. Therein lies the problem. There is an appeal to tradition.

This is what is truly bothering me with this book and this argument. It is the belief that tradition has some, rather large, authority over us. As a Baptist I am of the mind that our authority is found solely in God and it is mediated through the Bible. To make a claim for theology that is based upon “that is what we are traditionally” flies into the face of the idea of Authority only in God. I do not intend to discuss the theological aspects of what I am arguing, but only point out a flaw in the historical methodology.

What I am not advocating is a denial of tradition. There is a place in our beliefs for tradition, but when history is used prescriptively it is relegated to a higher authority than it should be deemed. We have much to learn from those who came before, but we must always keep in mind that they could have been wrong as much as you and I can be wrong. We are all sinful beings fighting the fight between flesh and Spirit. So please when you are arguing something do not find your favs of your traditions’ theological heritage and flaunt them. That weakens your argument, slightly degrades their ministries and does not give a fuller picture.

President, 1VP, 2VP, etc.

2007-06-05T13:27:00.000-05:00

It is that time of year again where a limited few souls become extremely enraptured into a debate of who they will pick for the leaders of the Southern Baptist Convention. However, as important as it is for these positions to be chosen I have a separate question for you, actually two.

First, if the convention was made up of people on the LOST Island, who would you choose to be the President 1VP and 2nd VP? Please only use the characters on the island, and this includes any character who has been...removed.

Second, just for the fun of it, replace the characters of the island with actual characters in the SBC. I would be intrigued to see who you would submit.

Spurgeon Speaks

2007-03-31T08:51:00.000-05:00

I was reading a devotion from Spurgeon this morning and came across a quote that I thought puts everything into perspective, not just about what is to come, but about what is already happening, mainly sin.

"The Lord would have His chosen display discrimination so that they may see that the desolation of the wicked is not a real calamity to the universe. Sin alone is evil; the punishment which follows thereupon is as a preserving salt to keep society from putrefying. We should be far more shocked at the sin which deserves hell than at the hell which comes out of sin."

Goodbye VW

2007-03-27T22:12:00.000-05:00

I remember the first time I saw it. We were at a car show in Ft. Myers Florida, it was the end of my senior year of high school and I was about to graduate. My parents wanted to get me a new car to take to college and there was this new style on the VW Passat that I fell in love with. In a week we bought it. It was the coolest car at the time for me. I had a lot of great times in it. Roadtrips all over the Southeast. It was the car Shareen and I drove away in at our wedding. A lot of good memories.

That was until last year. The timing belt breaks. Windows fall in the doors. Oil cooler spills all oil into streets of Ft. Worth. Then this last weekend Shareen calls to say she is ont eh side of the road for what we now know was a catalytic converter problem. It was past time to get a new vehicle. Today we left VW land for good.

Good bye memories. Good riddance problems.

New Computer

2007-03-26T16:28:00.000-05:00

Well I bit the bullet and it is here. As you are reading this I am typing on my new Black Macbook. This was not an easy choice to make, but I believe I have chosen wisely amongst the plethora of laptop choices on the market today. It is my first Mac and I do not think I shall join the cult as of yet, but it is tempting. This machine is amazing.

The Black Donellys

2007-03-19T10:05:00.000-05:00

Typically I try to stay away from the TV. As of late I am not doing too well, but we have our moments. Shareen and I spent at least an hour reading together last night. It is a start to trying to move towards TV free hours in our house. In fact I had planned out a schedule that called for only one show to be watched: LOST. For those who know the show you understand why.

However, there is a genre of film that has always intrigued me: mob movies. I remember the first time I saw The Godfather. The story line was amazing, few movies have topped it. Since then I have like to catch a showing of other mob movies, which are best on TV where they edit out the bad stuff.

And it is to TV that I now turn to find a new mob story that thus far has been great: The Black Donelley’s. This is a show about four Irish brothers who have to deal with neighborhood mobs. The storyline’s are wonderful and well written. The actors are not anyone you would recognize (save one or two), yet they are fantastic. This is not a show for the faint hearted, but it could be one that will be marked as great one day. As of now it has my vote.

If you do not have the time to watch it NBC has now started offering their shows for free on the web. Check it out at www.NBC.com

Open Office

2007-03-17T11:59:00.000-05:00

I am on winding down my wait before I make the switch to a Mac. There are a few concerns that I have, the most being waiting for Leopard to be released. As soon as it is released (which I am hoping will happen this month) I will purchase the new machine. However, there is another consideration: Office for Mac. I can buy it $149 since I am a student, but is this the right option?

I have been watching two of my co-workers work with their new Macs (a Mini and a Macbook). They included in their bundle the Adobe Creative Suite 2, which needs a lot of ram to run, yet it is not the software that slows it down, Office is.

Office is still having to be translated since it is not completely on the Mac platform. The 2008 version is suppose to place it on this platform, but that is not due for months. So what do I do? Do I buy the program and watch it run slowly and wait? Is there another option? Well thanks to Phil Eubanks, another co-worker, I have found an answer and it is called Open Office.

Open Office, http://www.openoffice.org/ is a free source program that will do everything that Microsoft Office can do. In fact I am writing this blog on its program “Writer.” It is very similar to Office, but not exactly the same. However remember that it is free. In fact its creators want to keep it that way.

If you are strapped for cash, are not satisfied with Office, or are looking for new ways to stick it to Microsoft. Then I suggest this program. I know I will use it and it can save in all the formats you would need.

Biblical Authority

2007-03-13T08:43:00.000-05:00

Less than a week ago I was called to speak to a twentysomething’s gathering in Grandbury, TX. This is a group made up of a few different churches who gather together monthly to worship. The guy who normally speaks had surgery and could not drive so at the last minute I was called to speak. Since I have resolved to only on a rare occasion turn down an opportunity to preach, I accepted.

The next question I asked was, “What is the topic?” the response was usual, “Whatever you want.” Upon some thought and a few discussion and prayer I decided that I would speak on Scripture. This topic is more important today than it was during the whole conservative resurgence in the SBC. (A topic for another day). As I was preparing for this sermon I stopped by LifeWay to see if they had anything that would be helpful. What I came across was the latest edition of Biblical Authority by Jimmy Draper and Kenneth Keathley.

What is great about this book is that in a few short pages (147) you can concisely cover the main issues regarding Biblical Authority. The authors walk you through the major developments in philosophy and religious thought as they affected the Bible. They then define and slightly develop the different criticisms that are used in scholarship today pointing out all the negative uses. Next a walk through Church History’s view of the Bible helps you see that those who find authority in the Bible are not alone in Christianity. Then the rest of the book is specifically concerned with the topic of Authority, especially as it pertains to Southern Baptists.

This is a short book and can be read in a few hours. For those who do not have much time it is a great resource to use in pondering Biblical Authority and teaching on Scripture in general.

Redemption

2007-02-15T07:36:00.001-06:00

Last fall I posted that I was disappointed in ABC for what they did with LOST. In fact many people were quite displeased with that mini-season. SO with much anticipation those of us who are LOST fans were awaiting something more to come in February, and did we ever receive it. There have been more answers and yes more questions, but the mythology of the island is alive and well again and that is what truly drives the show.

Last Fall the season was slow and unappreciated because it became about what some men were doing to people on an island. Jack, Sawyer and Kate were all caged up and we were only revealed a story line of the others. This same story line could be placed in any of the other shows on television. I think that one of the great attractions to LOST is that there is something metaphysical about the island, something supernatural. Call it postmodernism or whatever, but people are longing to find out more about a “higher power.” Whether this power be God or something innate in us humanity is searching for it, we want it. When we do not get it in an episode we complain. We are content with only questions because we realize there is something supernatural that we might or might not understand, but we like it because it is greater than what we know. We search for it and love it.

Thus this is my LOST argument for the existence of God.

The music in my head

2007-02-12T08:43:00.000-06:00

I do not read the Baptist blogs like I did a year ago. I had a friend tell me he was going blog free and I recognized the wisdom in that. The blogs I cut out are from those who are pretty much ignorant to some of the issues (not that I know what is going on). But I realized something today, when I do read some of these blogs I hear that ominous theme from the Lord of the Rings. It is the ring's theme. Upon recognizing this I chuckled to myself and thought about all the strife in the convention, whether in the blogosphere or not, and saw how it could possibly be just a diversion; something for us to focus on and forget that which we are called to do. Sure there are changes that need to take place, but lets make them and move on. Either you believe we have a world to save or not.

William

2007-02-10T11:57:00.000-06:00

It has been two weeks and no true word on my blog about what I think about being a Dad. The delay is in part due to lack of sleep and an overwhelming fear of being behind in school and work. Things are starting to settle down and I thought I should take a moment to speak about William.

I a word he is wonderful. Of course this should be the attitude of any new father. For those who do not feel this way: shame on you! It is a great priviledge and responsibility to be a parent and one should take on the task encapsulated by love toward the child. In this case it is William and I had no idea how much I would love him or care for him and even now I cannot properly convey those feelings. Only those who have been there before can say, “I know what you are saying.”

William himself is pretty laid back. He cries for one reason only: food. I suppose he gets that from me. We have to feed him every 2-3 hours, something I still practice to this day. My favorite thing that he does is get this hugely inquisitive look on his face that wrinkles his whole forehead up. It is too amazing. I do not know what he is thinking about or how a baby thinks, but he is taking in as much as he can while he is awake.

I know now that I would do anything for him and want him to grow up knowing he was loved and supported. I pray every day that one day he will come to Christ, for nothing is more important than that. I do not know what other adventures this new thing called parenthood will provide, but I am not worried and up for the challenge.

Pics on Facebook

2007-02-04T22:02:00.000-06:00

On Jan. 26 our son william Madison Grace, III was born. If you want to see pictures of William go to Facebook and request to be my friend. Otherwise you can't see them. Too many to post here.

A needed pick me up.

2007-01-23T12:17:00.000-06:00

So today has started off crummy. My car, once again is in the shop, this time it might be for good. So I am bummed about that, it has brought my spirits low and I still have a lot to do for my paper due Friday. Needless to say I needed a pick me up, and since William has yet to be born I needed something else.

So today in the mail I received this letter with a fake check for $1750.00. I thought, shoot I should at least see what is going on with this company, so as any good researcher would do I googled it. What I found was a link to a great post on someone's blog. Mind you I do not know this person, but saw his sarcastic humor just the pick me up I need. Click Here to see his site. Maybe you will find it funny too.

A moment in time

2006-11-20T11:57:00.000-06:00

My Sunday School class was given a task, a homework assignment, to complete this past week before returning. The assignment was to find a moment in your life where you were so blessed by God that time could stand still and you could live in that moment forever. However, I was not a good student and forgot to do my homework. So when I arrived this past week I heard stories of moments that were very important people, and most of them dealt with their children. Of course William has not yet arrived, so those moments are nonexistent for me. Then I started pondering moments in my life where I think time could have stood still and this is what came to mind:

Before I moved to Fort Worth I was the Associate Music/Associate Youth Minister at Parkway Baptist Church in Clinton, MS. Every summer we took the youth to a Student Life Youth Camp, most of the time we drove to Covenant College in Tennessee. It was a great location with a great view, so our students loved going there.

In the summer of 2003 we were once again at Covenant College. The speaker for the week was Adam Robinson, a true preacher of the Word. It was an emotional trip for me, for I knew it would be my last with this group of students, however as the week pressed on I noticed something at this camp I had not noticed before. Usually when I have attended camps there has been at least some expectancy of being transformed by God before the week ended. It was seriously lacking at this camp. You could blame it on the rockin’ music or the goth kids who were roaming around or on any other issues, but nonetheless one could tell something was desperately missing from this camp experience.

On the last night Adam Robinson, the speaker, steps onto stage and tells us he is not going to preach the sermon he had planned, instead God had moved his heart in a different direction. His topic for the night was now going to be: “Awe & Reverence,” which was quite apropos considering the previous worship times. They were filled with fun and excitement and I watched a few dance moves I had not seen before, however none of these were directed toward the Almighty.

After mentioning to us that God has given him a new message, Adam proceeds to “shuck the corn” theologically. It was not an “Osteenesque” feel good sermon. It did one thing and one thing only: It drove home to all of us that God is God and deserves Awe and Reverence, especially in worship. Rebuke is a word that is too light. Exhort is outright. The best way to describe this message was severe humbling. Not a soul in the room walked away without examining his or her heart and how they have been flippant in their relationship with their Saviour.

As great as the sermon was, it was not the moment I remembered that could last forever. That moment followed the sermon. Adam called the band back onto the stage to lead us in worship. What a difference a sermon makes. The change in the congregation was phenomenal. True awe and reverence were given to God and lives were impacted by the Almighty. Then the band stepped back from their microphones and ceased playing to direct their own hearts and affections. Then, spontaneously, someone started singing a hymn on one side of the auditorium. When that song was done another one picked up elsewhere, and so on. This spontaneous worship lasted for over an hour. It was past 11:00 at night and they needed us to go to our church group meetings, but they asked us not to stop what God was doing in our hearts. It was quite a time with God and other fellow Christians.

I have heard many worship leaders say that Heaven is going to be nothing but singing praise songs to God all day long. I will not be so bold to make such a statement; I do not know how Heaven will play out. What I do know is that it will be eternity in the presence of the Almighty. This moment I experienced is a slight hint of heaven for me. It furthers the hope of the Christian life. It reminds me there is more than this earth and its evil and persuades me to persevere and seek, wholeheartedly seek, the return of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. I could stay in these moments forever, and one day will.

LOST and the Loss of viewers

2006-11-09T23:19:00.000-06:00

Dear ABC,

It has been my great joy to be caught up in the LOST phenomenon; however, this season is not doing much for me. Perhaps your other fans are ok with this season’s lack of luster and blandness, but let it be known that you are losing me. I hope February offers something more enticing.

Disappointed,

Madison Grace

A Quote from Baptist History

2006-10-18T11:22:00.000-05:00

"For if Reason should go before, like an Usher to make way to Faith in Divine Mysteries, we should never believe. In many Divine Truths, the Schoolmen say well, Rationes præcedentes minuunt fidem, sed Rationes subsequentes augent sidem: Reasons going before Faith weaken Faith, but Reasons coming after Faith strengthen it."

Preface from The Orthodox Creed

Season 2 Compleated

2006-09-19T09:52:00.000-05:00

Last night Shareen and I finished the second season of the show Lost. I am now more confused than ever and am beginning to understand that the name of the show has more to do with your state of mind after watching it than those who are on the island. I have my theories, but I will save most of them, since I am sure many who read my blog (or the few) are not as caught up in Lost as I am and of Course Matt is.

So now with that completed and a Latin test over I can now focus on some other ventures in my life. For instance, I have been preaching these last few weeks in Mineral Wells. God has given me an opportunity to share the Gospel and teach the Word of God with a group of believers in that community. I am more than ever sure of the calling on my life to preach the Word. The more I do it the more I love it. If your life is not lead by passion then you are not living. (Quite positive I am not the first to say so).

Also, I have been doing more reading, especially on the church. In a little while I will post some more about what I have been reading.

Season 2

2006-09-12T12:16:00.000-05:00

It has been an extremely busy week for me. I have some posts coming, but they are still in infancy. We also have Lost Season 2 and are in the process of going through them. 4 down and many to go. So that is where I will be for a few weeks, so please no spoilers for me.

Drum Roll Please...

2006-09-01T08:59:00.000-05:00

It is a boy!!!!!!

William Madison Grace, III, who will go by William, is due to be born on January 21, 2007.

Church, practices and policies

2006-08-22T10:09:00.000-05:00

For any Christian out there who is being obedient to Christ being involved in a Church is of utmost priority. Some would say that all one needs for salvation is to believe and that churches cause nothing but problems, fair enough, however, that person is missing out on much that a body of confessing believers offers, not to mention they are breaking from the biblical practice of Christians to gather together (cf. the New Testament)

In my life right now Shareen and I are in search of that place where we should plant our lives, either as a minister of the Gospel or as a church member. In either case it is important to think through a church’s distinctives in deciding if it is the place for one’s family.

On BaptistTheology.org there is a white paper by Dr. Thomas White that says there are three elements that are essential (the Being or esse) to a church: Gospel, Ordinances, Believers intentionally gathered. (p. 8). He then lists parts of the church that are for its bene esse or Well-being. These are elements that take a more narrowed view on some doctrines, those that would define a church more precisely. For instance, he lists: expositional preaching, believers baptism, memorial Lord’s supper, polity, etc. Yet there are others who would add another category called adiaphora, this would be those doctrines and teachings that do not fit into either of these categories. Others have called these primary, secondary and tertiary issues, treating them accordingly.

So in choosing a church one must make sure that the primary issues are in place. When it comes to the secondary issues one must study the biblical texts to find out where they belong. For me, some of these secondary issues are important. As a Baptist (or rather as I see the truth in scripture) I would need to find a church with regenerate church membership, a memorial view of the Lord’s Supper, and congregational polity, and others. This is how I view what scripture teaches on these subjects. I am well aware that others espouse different beliefs and are fruitful Christians. However, I believe they are in error.

It is the last issue, congregational polity, that has raised my head to think today. It seems that there is a movement for the institution of elders in many churches today. So let me begin by saying that elder is a biblical term and I am not one who is against the idea of elders. In fact Southern Baptists used to use it conterminously with that of pastor. (see the 1925 BFM XII., “Its Scriptural officers are bishops or elders and deacons.”) Over the last half century the term had fallen out of use in Baptist churches with the replacement of pastor. However, the meaning for Baptists did not change over this time. What is interesting for some contemporary Baptists who are “reclaiming” this biblical office is that they are not seeing it as it has been understood by Baptists. By that I mean they are moving away from a congregational polity to a Presbyterian polity.

You might be arguing now that there is a need for such a move so that ministers can have more localized control and that many congregations have been run amuck by out of control business meetings of those who do not regularly attend but are members. I am not saying that that is not a problem, it is and I think I have a solution to it that retains congregational polity.

In Matthew 18 Jesus institutes what most recognize as church discipline. In that practice it is the church (the complete body of believers) that retains the final authority on one’s standing in the body. In this case a board of ruling elders would not suffice. The body is the one who must decide what it is to be done. It is also the body, the gathering that should decide on the confession of faith, otherwise they have not joined together with a common goal.

Therefore, it is my contention that churches must be congregational and be covenanted together. That means that the congregation, those who are members, must agree with the confession of the church and covenant to live a life that fits with that confession and be willing to be disciplined when they are not in line with the confession. In this view the purity of the church is maintained, it remains a regenerate body, and membership’s importance is highlighted. Some churches now require an annual renewal of membership so that the body is reminded of what is required of them.
For me the importance is on the congregation. For others it might be in centralizing authority. Maybe I am unfair, but you know pastors who would love to do what they want with little accountability. If we rightly confess and covenant to be a church together this form of polity can and has worked. Outside of those parameters any churches is headed toward trouble.

A long summer

2006-08-16T09:48:00.000-05:00

Classes begin soon. Shareen and I are taking a class a piece while we try to figure out what it is that we are supposed to do. I also am applying for PhD at SWBTS. We are still looking and hoping for a pastorate, but also are missing the fellowship of a church. Please be in prayer for us.

This summer I spent most of it in preparation or with the Oxford study Program at SWBTS. If you have a chance to go I would highly recommend it. It has been a great time of my life both summers I have gone. Not only does it allow one to relate with other faculty and students, but it gives a world view, if you are open to it. The godlessness of the world is prevalent in England (ironically the birthplace of Baptists and American Religious movements). It reminded me that we have a task to complete, and it is not just in our back yards.

So as I wrap up that program and begin a new semester I am taken back. It is three years since I moved to Ft. Worth. I distinctly remember the day I moved into Ft. Worth Hall, the friends I met, the classes, the overwhelmed feeling of some place new. Now I have graduated, am married, and have a baby on the way. My life now looks completely different than when I moved here. Then I was concerned with the ways of the world, now I have become content with the simple life. I would not trade it for the world and I cannot wait for the excitement of the future, whatever that may be.

Worshipping Jesus

2006-07-03T10:39:00.000-05:00

Last night I was driving past a sign that claimed that Jesus should be first in our life. It got me thinking "Do we worship Jesus too much?"

I know for some of you that sounds crazy, but in terms of the Trinity, are we missing out on something by focusing on Jesus and ignoring the Spirit or merely giving a passing praise to the Father? Just a thought.

Our Baby

2006-06-29T08:33:00.000-05:00

Here are some pics of our sonogram.

This is Our Baby's Heartbeat!

A Great Weekend

2006-06-26T09:48:00.000-05:00

This weekend was the Youth Evangelism Conference for the BGCT and since one of Shareen's best friends puts on this event we were invited with Backstage passes. We heard groups like KJ52, Barlow Girl and Tree 63 and worshipped with Big Daddy Weave. The best part was that Voddie Baucham preached on Friday night.

Let me give you a run down of the sermon. He starts by giving the illustration of a man purchasing a banana tree. As it is being rung up it says "Apple Tree" to which the clerk would not admit that it was a banana tree, even though it had bananas hanging from it. His point was that many Christians are walking around calling themselves Apple Trees while bananas are hanging from them. A great intro that inspired us all to make our calling and election sure.

He ended with a not so common ending for the YEC: no invitation. He said I am not going to call you down to the Magic space during a Magic time where you can say some Magic words. Spot on what we need to hear.

For those of you who do not realize it Christianity is more than a feeling. In fact Voddie said that we should not expect life to get better when we become a Christian, and a true Christian is fine with that. It could cost us our lives, and true Christian is fine with that. Great sermon. Great call to true faith. Great preacher.

Ayn Rand, Fever Pitch, and Young Love

2006-06-20T10:58:00.000-05:00

This weekend was slightly out of the ordinary. I started a book and finished it. Signed up for Blockbuster's version of Netflix and had my niece and her boyfriend/fiancé spend the weekend.

First off, Ayn Rand is one of the most interesting writers I have come across. She is known for works such as Atlas Shrugged and The Fountainhead, but is also a philosopher. I read Anthem this weekend, I know it was not a tough read, but it definitely posed some interesting thoughts for one to consider. I recommend it.

I also rented Fever Pitch. The movie about the fanatic Red Sox fan who falls in love. It is great. Not too chikie. If you are looking for movie for you and your loved one to rent this is it. Most of the other stuff at the store is trash.

Speaking of movies, tomorrow I will have three movies shipped to my door and I can return them via mail whenever I want. As soon as I return them they ship me another from my list. I know you have heard it before, but it really is great, especially if you live in the boondocks like TW. The advantage of Blockbuster is that they also give you a free rental from the store a week in addition. A great way to entertain! Forget the movies. My couch is more comfortable. My floors aren't sticky (mostly anyways) and the popcorn is cheap. Who could ask for more?

Have you met Flywheel?

2006-06-15T10:13:00.000-05:00

Most of you have seen the site SBC Outhouse (at least you should, I told you to go to it a few weeks ago). However, if you are not keeping up you need to. Much news of Flywheel has arisen!

House

2006-06-14T09:12:00.000-05:00

On my last post I received an anonymous comment that claimed that House, the hit doctor show on Fox is better than Lost. Upon hearing that strange strings were pulled within me. How shall I respond? On the one hand I am completely intrigued by Lost and on the other I have found such satisfaction in the sarcastic genius of Gregory House.

My answer: Apples and Oranges. These shows are two of the best on television. They are different shows with different goals. If you were to compare all the CSI's or Law and Order's maybe we could play that game (the original for both, and don't get me started on the horrible acting on CSI Miami), however that game must not be played my friends. Both these shows are excellent (minus inappropriate scenes here and there). If you have not seen House M.D. check it out. I am sorry to those who are already hooked on other shows, but this one is amazing as well. Maybe next I should check out Alias or 24. I here they are of the same caliber.

Lost

2006-06-11T21:49:00.000-05:00

Season One done. What's next? No one tell me. Perhaps I will download season 2 from iTunes. If you have not caught on to the Lost craze you are missing out. thanks Matt. We really appreciate it.

Expand your vocabulary

2006-06-09T09:32:00.000-05:00

I am typing up resources for the website baptisttheology.org and I came across a word that I have never heard of, maybe you have, but we all can use some education. Thank bartleby.com for the help.

terraqueous

SYLLABICATION:
terÂ·raÂ·queÂ·ous
PRONUNCIATION:
tr-kw-s, -kw-
ADJECTIVE:
Composed of land and water.
ETYMOLOGY:
Latin terra, earth; see ters- in Appendix I + aqueous.

Blog Experiment

2006-06-09T08:46:00.000-05:00

Well, for the few that visited yesterday I suppose my experiment was a bomb. Maybe it was destined to be so. I even tried to find my sight via search engines and it did not arise. It does not really matter any way.

Baptist Theology

2006-06-06T08:34:00.000-05:00

For those of you who are interseted, a new site has been opened.

www.baptisttheology.org

On it you can find tracts about Baptist life from Southern Baptist scholars, primary baptist history sources, search through the Southwestern Journal of Theology, or ask any question about Baptist life.

It truly is a great resource and will continue to grow.

The Best Preacher in the Metroplex

2006-06-04T21:02:00.000-05:00

Today I heard one of the best if not the best preacher in the Metroplex. No I wasn't in Plano. I did not go to the Village. It was not found in Fort Worth anywhere, it was in a small church in Southlake, First Baptist to be exact.

When one of the members, a friend of mine, asked me to fill in as a music leader I was a little apprehensive. I feel called to preach, but no one has called me to preach and God provided this opportunity to minister through song, so I could not refuse. Dr. Yarnell has told us time and again when given an opportunity take it. I think that is wise advice, not matter what the circumstances.

It is a most blessed and loving church. The people were kind, and unlike other places, I could hear them sing. However, when the pastor, Scott, got up to preach I soon was astounded. He preached a...spin the wheel of adjectives...phenomenal sermon. It was the last two verses of John, a completion of a five year series.

If you have time to hear this great preaching you should take it. You will not be disappointed.

A Restful Weekend

2006-06-03T13:30:00.000-05:00

Everyone needs a break. It is natural. For many of us that break starts at 5:00 on Friday. So as Shareen and I were discussing the weekend we decided that we would just relax, really relax for a time.

The cravings have begun and we decided upon chicken fried steak from Grandy's. My first experience to that establishment. The jury is out on if I will return, at least to that location. In the midst of our conversation the manager comes around and turns the TV to BET and cranks it up. I am not a hater of the hip hop scene, but I do enjoy a meal where I can talk with those with whom I am eating. Our exodus came quickly.

Then we went o blockbuster, and found virtually nothing. So we rented Fun with Dick and Jane. Cute, but not great. I also rented the first season of Lost. It might have been a mistake, but I am now hooked. Please no one tell me what is going on. I need to experience this as the original audience did. Two episodes down, many to go. Maybe someone has the first season (Matt perhaps) that would loan it to me. I have the first season of House, maybe we could trade. Anyhow, it is a great show.

Before bed we sat up played Counting Crows songs and looked up their meanings at annabegins.com. Check it out if you like the Counting Crows.

Now it is off to Wal-Mart to buy food. We are making dinner for the Yarnell's tonight. Karen had her baby if you did not know. Elizabeth Joy Yarnell, a great name.

Have a good weekend. Spend time with your family. Stay off the blogs. Have a great worship time on Sunday.

Border Patrol

2006-06-01T22:23:00.000-05:00

If you are concerned about our border. Check out this story http://www.nbc5i.com/video/9301852/index.html

Now buy your brick.

A Trampling

2006-06-01T08:26:00.000-05:00

Maybe you have noticed that I am kind of a fan of St. Augustine. Of course I do not believe everything he does, especially in concerns to regeneration found in the baptismal waters. I do enjoy reading him and learning from this beautiful mind God has given to the Church.

Almost everyday I read a quote of his from an online devo filled with Augustinian quotes, some of which have made it here. Today's quote left me reading it a few times, especially this part, "He [Jesus] saw that their honoring him is useless if they trample upon his members who are here on earth"

This quickly caught my attention because I am not the first on the list with the spiritual gift of mercy. Often I tell my wife that my predominant love language is sarcasm. I am a cynic. I doubt people's motives. I do not believe there is much that is black and white. This leads me to have an attitude that is sometimes less than holy, so this quote completely caught my attention.

I spend many hours reading about what is going on in the Southern Baptist Convention. I do not comment on it often because I really do not want to get caught up in what is going on. I know that most of the controversies are less than holy, especially those in the blogospehere. From Wade Burleson to Tom Ascol and Marty Duren there is much on the web that is driven by less than holy desires. I admit I do not trust these guys when they say they are for integrity, honesty, "biblical principles" (however shoddy their definitions are). Behind most of them is not the glory of God, but some right of power in the SBC.

A couple of years ago the ninth grade girls in our youth group made a shirt that said "whatever" on the front. On the back was the Scripture that said "Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things." Phil 4:8.

This passage falls more in line with what ole Augie was talking about. We should not shirk away from controversy. We should be able to boldly stand against it. That is our heritage. But let the fights be about false doctrine, about heresy, not about who is in power and who is not.

Prove that motive to me and I will stand beside you. Otherwise shut up, you are not honoring God by trampling the Church.

New Blog

2006-05-30T16:48:00.000-05:00

Check out this new blog called SBC Outhouse

www.sbcouthouse.blogspot.com

Soul Patrol

2006-05-25T16:54:00.000-05:00

I had more than a few people mention to me (especially those who new me pre-goatee) that I, and my father, look like Taylor Hicks. This only gave me more of an incentive to support this fantastic performer. If you missed any of the performances you missed a man who knows how to perform.

Let’s hear it for the Soul Patrol!

2006-05-22T08:40:00.000-05:00

Listen to Christ: Do you wish to walk? I am the Way. Do you wish not to be deceived? I am the Truth. Do you wish not to die? I am the Life.

There is no place for you to go except to me. There is no manner of going except through me.

Augustine

What is it about that sound

2006-05-19T18:38:00.000-05:00

I was riding in the car one day with the drummer and lead singer of the band I was playing with for while. It was a five hour drive and we had plenty to discuss, so being musicians we only talked about music. The interesting point that was made through this conversation was that Christian music, in general, is cheesy. It is true. What is the last Christian band you listened to? Aside from a handful of bands Christian music as a whole is not in the same game as the rest.

Why would I make this point? This is not a plea for all of to live passionately for Christ and try to not be the annoying religious types that turn people off. I just want to merely point out what music is not cheesy. Think for a second about the last song that was stuck in your head? What was it? What did you like about it that made your mind stay on it?

For me that song has been "Wish You Were Hear" by Pink Floyd, however, often times it some Counting Crows song. The other night I listened to the live 10 minute version of "Round Here" and I was emotionally touched by it. There was some sense of passion that was communicated to my soul and so many others. If you have not heard either of these two songs please check them out. Notice the difference they have compared to the latest Pop Christian hit.

2006-05-11T09:24:00.000-05:00

I know most of you are sick of hearing about The Da Vinci Code but I will add my two cents on the topic since I finished reading the book early Wednesday morning.

There are many views on what to do with the book. Michael Dean, pastor at Travis Ave. Baptist Church in Fort Worth, TX, claimed we should either: embrace it, ignore it, boycott it, or engage it. Many of my evangelical brethren have fallen into the boycott it realm, and with good reason: they do not want to bankroll heresy. However, I am of a different mind. I like to know what something is before I make strong claims about it, so often I choose to engage issues, which is why I bought the book and wanted to understand what all the fuss was about.

Strictly from a fiction/literary realm the book is quite good. It has short chapters that leave you longing for more. It has one story line that is fulfilled through different characters at different locations all at the same time, sort of like the show 24. Dan Brown knows how to hook you. Much of the book reminded me of the movie National Treasure that was an enigmatic race for the ultimate prize. The interesting thing is that both The Da Vinci Code and National Treasure are concerned with the Knights Templar and the treasure they are presumed to have.

The strong objections I have with the book are probably common to most of you, especially in reference to Christ. Brown denies his deity, his miracles, and his resurrection, nothing new to Christianity. He speaks of Scripture as being modified by Constantine and denies its veracity, nothing new. In fact all the heresy in the book is just a play it again record going back to the first century. So why I am I alarmed?

The premises he projects are far from substantiated by any scholar. His methods are far from viable, his message, however, is quite believable. He writes so matter-of-factly that even those of us who know better might stop and think, “Well that sounds right.” I am not claiming I believe him, only that he sounds believable. This is the problem with this book: it raises doubt to the Christian faith. Sure the true saints well persevere, but all of us can be claimed as “damaged goods” by something we have experienced. The evil one is using this work, and the movie, to try to hurt The Way.

We need to engage this text. We need to understand his arguments, however foolish they are. We need to present the true gospel to this lost and dying world who are being deceived and will continue to be deceived by the Evil One.

Crazy Pics

2006-04-27T10:37:00.000-05:00

I am impressed!

Sick and too many things to

2006-04-26T09:29:00.000-05:00

It is the end of the semester and inevitably I am sick. Please pray for me. I turned in a 220 page project today. (Don't be impressed it is a workbook.)

I also have to read thousands of pages before Monday. It is going to be a hectic few days before graduation.

I will try to post something more intellectually stimulating after graduation. Please stop by again.

A Change in Evangelism

2006-04-20T13:48:00.000-05:00

I found this pic about girls ministry.

Following the thoughts

2006-04-18T11:46:00.000-05:00

The past few posts, and especially their comments, have been interesting to read. It is always intriguing to see how a discussion moves itself. Circenses proclaims that both men and women can be elders/pastors. And he cites:

"Male Elders - 1 Tim 5:1; Titus 2:2
Female Elders - 1 Tim 5:2; Titus 2:3"

However, these passages do not address the issues of the officers of the church but discipleship, if I am reading correctly. I have no problems for men teaching men and women teaching women, however at what point does a church put a woman over a man or a man o
over a woman.

What is the correct path to follow? (Remember to be Christ like in all things)

Authority

2006-04-14T13:47:00.000-05:00

It seems that the last post left some questions as to what I meant by authority. Let me clarify a little. What I am looking for is your thoughts on leadership and governance in church. Most who responded were Baptists, even Pope Cole, however even with Baptists circles there is disagreement about this subject.

Please let me know your thoughts.

Discussion Question

2006-04-08T22:48:00.000-05:00

Authority in the church is important.

Deacons, Elders, Etc.

Discuss.

Evangelizing Babies

2006-04-05T11:31:00.000-05:00

The age of salvation has been an interesting issue for me throughout my life. I have been to many youth camps and other meetings where it was told that if I did not remember my date of accepting Christ then perhaps I am not saved. This bothers me.

I was baptized when I was in third grade. We were in the middle of the "Here's Hope Jesus Cares for You" campaign at church, yet it was not because of the revival that I came to faith. I suppose some of my friends might call me a covenant child in that I grew up in the church and out of that my expression of faith emerged. However, that is not to say I did not have a moment when I called out to God for his mercy. I was eight. It was at Joe Glass' house. My mother was there with me.

Why do I tell you all of this? The reason is that today I learned that had I waited only a few more months the likelihood of my salvation would have slipped dramatically. Research has now "proven" that if we do not effectively evangelize our children by age X, then the chances of them coming to faith is very, very slim. I have heard the argument from Youth people and they use age 18. I have heard some children's ministers’ use 12 or 13. Now I have heard by age 7 or 8.

Where is the faith in salvation? Have we become so pragmatic, logical and statistical that we have forgotten that the Gospel is foolish to the wise (1 Cor. 1)? Does this research imply that Christian converts are only for the ignorant?

My friends it is time we quit trying to make Christianity fit our molds. Those molds will pass away (1 John 2:15-17). It is time we remembered that belief in Christ is not a cognitive experiment; otherwise we are no different than any other religion who has "determined" they are correct.

2006-03-31T13:55:00.000-06:00

Item # 180 Your Best Life Now:The GameFor 2 or more players,ages 16 and up.
The best selling book is now anat-home experience like no other!
“Your Best Life Now” by Joel Osteen has sold over 3 million copies and has been on the New York Times and Publisher’s Weekly Best Seller list for over 50 consecutive weeks. The game enables players to step beyond the one-on-one nature of the book and feel, touch, and live Joel’s 7 Steps To Living At Your Full Potential with your friends and family. Your Best Life Now: The Game is an entertaining and educational way to take inventory of yourself and accountability of your actions. Climb the mountain as you
• Enlarge Your Vision
• Develop a Healthy Self Image
• Discover the Power of your Thoughts and Words
• Let Go of the Past
• Find Strength Through Adversity
• Live To Give
And • Choose to Be Happy
Each new plateau represents a challenge and a chance to open up and experience these steps first hand as you learn to live Your Best Life Now.

Life Through Death

2006-03-22T10:17:00.000-06:00

Unless the Word of God had first assumed our mortal flesh he could not have died for us. Only in that way was the immortal God able to die and to give life to mortal humans.

Therefore, by this double sharing he brought about a wonderful exchange. We made death possible for him, and he made life possible for us.

-- Augustine Sermon 218C, 1

A Hymn

2006-03-17T15:34:00.000-06:00

A came across this hymn today. Tell me what you think.

Why Men Don't Preach Sovereign Grace

What makes mistaken men afraid

Of sovereign grace to preach!

The reason is, if truth be said,

Because they are so rich.

Why so offensive in their eyes

Does God's election seem?

Because they think themselves so wise

That they have chosen him.

Of perseverance why so loath

Are some to speak or hear?

Because, as masters over sloth,

They vow to persevere.

Whence is imputed righteousness

A point so little known?

Because men think they all possess

Some righteousness their own.

Not so the needy, helpless soul,

Prefers his humble prayer;

He looks to him that works the whole,

And seeks his treasure there.

His language is, "Let me, my God,

On sovereign grace rely;

And own 'tis free, because bestowed

On one so vile as I.

Election ! tis a word divine;

For, Lord, I plainly see,

Had not thy choice preceded mine,

I ne'er had chosen thee.

For perseverance strength I've none,

But would on this depend...

That Jesus, having loved his own,

Will love them to the end.

Empty and bare, I come to thee

For righteousness divine:

O may thy matchless merits be,

By imputation, mine."

Thus differ these; yet hoping each

To make salvation Sure.

Now most men will approve the rich,

But Christ has blessed the poor.

First titled: "Because thou sayest, I am rich." Rev 3:17. By Joseph Hart. A Selection of Hymns for Public Worship. by William Gadsby. The Gospel Standard Societies, 1977. 8 Roundwood Gardens, Harpenden, Herts. AL5 3AJ, England. Hymn 222. Pages 183-4.

Brotherly Love

2006-03-16T10:16:00.000-06:00

The words of 1 Peter 3:8 should ring in our ears continually,

"Finally, all of you, have unity of mind, sympathy, brotherly love, a tender heart, and a humble mind."

When these words change us so that we live our lives in such a manner it is amazing to see the difference. What I have seen of late, even in myself, has not been actions which are derived from lives that live out this verse.

It is true that no one is right about everything. Therefore disagreements will take place. Controversies will arise. When it happens it is up to Christians to live out lives which example the Grace God has given to us. I am not advocating a truly passive lifestyle. There are times when one must make a stand, however in those moments a person’s true colors are shown. When passions are running high and reason has been replaced with emotion a person who has not practiced brotherly love and humility will only fail in his quest.

I have seen many debates recently, most online. What I have rarely seen is any sense of love towards Christians from other Christians. One need not look far in any Christian debate to see hatred, envy, greed, and any other vice come forward. These are not honoring to God. They do not edify the Church nor do they advance the Kingdom. Not everything is black and white at first. Let us all take a little time to evaluate a situation before adding coals to the fire.

Death is never pretty

2006-03-13T14:38:00.000-06:00

Billy Graham iPod

2006-03-09T15:15:00.000-06:00

Billy Graham has hit the big time and joined the ranks of U2 in getting his own iPod

A Personal Touch

2006-03-08T11:48:00.000-06:00

I usually do not think that writing about myself will do anyone good, however those who are of the body help the body.

There are moments in my life when I have reality checks. By that I mean there are moments when someone walks up to me and unfavorably tells me how they feel. It is not always in such a blunt manner, but some way that message is conveyed. Often times I open the door for such comments and then I am left flustered to say the least. A moment comes into my mind when I have a few options. I could I either disagree or learn. Believe it or not I often choose the learning option, but it leaves my frustrated.

Such an event happened yesterday. The details are unimportant. However, I came away with harch feelings, some of anger, pain, hurt, sadness, etc. None that can be found in the fruit of the Spirit. Then throughout the rest of the day it was confirmed to me how wrong I was in action (however right I was in content, but like I said, the details are unimportant.)

What happened to me was a humbling experience. I am not saying I was humbled, however true that may be. I am saying the experience grew humility. There is a difference. One is a peripheral issue and one is the main issue.

Ok, what am I rambling about? It is this: A right understanding of self comes from a correct understanding of God. It is about relationship. That relationship is not the same as one with any human. It is a relationship of love and fear in humility. Sometimes we need to realize that even in tough situations (whether we create them or not) God is working in us to understand him better. Seek those moments where you can be transformed for the better in your relationship with God.

A new definition of college

2006-03-02T14:33:00.000-06:00

A friend of mine, who is a freshman in college, wrote the following assessment of her experience there.

"Oh, college. You masquerade as higher education, but you are really just a cover for a period of financially and emotionally expensive and risky self-debasement, over analysis, and obsessive reexamination of every conceivable neurosis or quirk, as well as a time for snarky politics and perceived witticisms and elaborate mating dances."

Thank You Monica!

The Trail of Blood, newly revised

2006-03-01T15:50:00.000-06:00

J. M. Carroll would have been proud!

Change? But we did change!

2006-02-28T16:34:00.000-06:00

"It will be interesting to note how flexible those of us who have changed things prove to be when it is our changes under challenge. "

A quote from John Sandeman in an article critiquing the Emergent Church Movement and especially Brian McClaren and D.A. Carson's work within it. (Not meaning that Carson is a part of this movement).

No More Sissy Skating!

2006-02-24T11:47:00.000-06:00

The Mortality of the Flesh

2006-02-23T11:15:00.000-06:00

"What else is that cross of ours which the Lord commands us to carry if not the mortality of our flesh? It is a source of distress to us until death is swallowed up in victory.
Therefore, it is precisely this cross that we must crucify and pierce with the nails of the fear of God."
-- Augustine, Letter 243, 11

Perspective

2006-02-23T10:12:00.000-06:00

My recent post generated discussion. Good discussion whichever side you are on. Any discussion of theology is beneficial when focused upon knowing God better instead of proving someone wrong. I will post more on this issue and many others.

However, this morning, in less than an hour, I was told of people dealing with cancer in at least three different instances. Furthermore, there are many people and friends at my church who are hurting that come to mind.

Let us always remember that we are all part of the body with different gifts, used for it's edification. I think those people who are hurting are not concerned with the finer, and grayer, matters of the extent of the atonement.

Take a moment and read this verse:

"If anyone advocates a different doctrine and does not agree with sound words, those of our Lord Jesus Christ, and with the doctrine conforming to godliness, he is conceited [and] understands nothing; but he has a morbid interest in controversial questions and disputes about words, out of which arise envy, strife, abusive language, evil suspicions, and constant friction between men of depraved mind and deprived of the truth, who suppose that godliness is a means of gain. But godliness [actually] is a means of great gain when accompanied by contentment." 1 Tim. 6:3-6

This is not a condemnation against those who disagree with me. Just an admonish to the way in which some theologies are done. Let us not have "a morbid interest." Rather, let us seek God. Know Him better. Love Him better. While ministering to our fellow man. Loving him better.

Reformed Reformed: My Reformation

2006-02-22T10:12:00.000-06:00

For the few of you who read this blog I owe it to you to respond when you ask me. Clint has asked how I "reformed my views." So let me begin.

In College I was challenged by some "intellectuals" (or at least I thought they were) who had grasped a concept of God which was foreign to me. As you should discern, this concept (or logic construct) is called Calvinsim. At first I hated it and then I was told to read Romans 9 and so I did, it is the Word of God! Upon reading I came across a conundrum. The language Paul used spoke of God's choice and showed pharaoh being hardened and I was at a crossroad looking for answers. I found them from some eager friends and soon I was preaching the gospel of Grace (and I use that now sarcastically). I gathered books and began to read the logical and historical nature of the doctrines of Calvinsim and Arminianism. I became closer friends with Presbyterians and joined the RUF (Reformed University Fellowship) and delved deeper into those doctrines that seemed to reveal so much of God to me.

Let me point out that during this time I was enriched. Joey, the RUF director, did not have a Calvinist agenda. He wanted to faithfully exposit the Word and taught me much. I especially hold him high for keeping me from the poison Brian McLaren was and is spewing.

In the world I became caught up in the pseudo-intellectual groups who had figured God out. Salvation now made logical sense. I must see God as being sovereign or else I would open the door to Open Theism. I read all the arguments on Calvinsim and argued it well, especially Limited Atonement and Irresistable Grace. However, what I lacked was a true biblical foundation for such arguments. I would preach that all does not mean all and that the term world or Cosmos could fall into many different categories (some of these arguments are true, but I used them for my own needs).

So well did I know the doctrines that I taught that section of Western Civilization to my class. The professor lauded me for my knowledge, yet I had students staring at me and asking if I believed in that God (a moment that has always haunted me). I found my system. I found my place to stand theologically and intellectually. I found myself.

Then I went to seminary, and not Southern to boot. My friends were perplexed as to why I would go to a place where the "doctrines" were not taught. They thought that RTS or Southern Seminary would be a much better choice. They were wrong. I arrived at a school in transition in administration, not in doctrine. What met me at seminary was a high view of scripture. I found 5 point calvinists and 1 point calvinists, but soon realized they were not consumed with the doctrine but with God and understanding his word.

You might ask, "Where was it that you fell apart?" And I answer, "In Greek." As I read and learned the New Testament in the original language I came across ideas that were hard and did not fit into my Calvinist box. Then I came across 2 Peter 2 and limited atonement fell apart. Since then I have found no evidence, other than logical, for irresistible grace.

If the Bible is our source of revelation from God then it supersedes reason, experience and tradition. Did God choose me? Yes! Did I choose God? Yes! How does that work? I don't know. It is a good question, but one that has risen far beyond its proper place. It should not consume our Theology Proper (the doctrine of the Godhead) and it should consume our soteriology (the doctrine of salvation). It is a mystery, and I am fine with that.

Where are the Baptists?

2006-02-20T17:05:00.000-06:00

1984

2006-02-16T14:07:00.000-06:00

If you have not read the classic 1984 then you must do so. It is a quick read that will scare the pants off of you, or at least it should. Government begins to rule every aspect of the people in that society so that if they are out of line, even from the dumbest of laws, they will be punished.
However, I came across the above ad. I do not know how old it is, nor do I care.

In light of the Katrina fiasco I think it odd that this exists with the more than apparent reality that people are longing to be dependent on government and will believe anything they are told from the media.

Cheney 2008

2006-02-16T11:50:00.000-06:00

Why don't I think this way?

2006-02-16T11:38:00.000-06:00

Driven out of paradise by you and exiled in a distant land, I cannot return by myself unless you, O Lord, come to meet me in my wandering. My return is based on hope in your mercy during all of my earthly life.
My only hope, the only source of confidence, and the only solid promise is your mercy.
-- Augustine - Commentary on Psalm 24, 5

Faster than a speeding bullet

2006-02-15T16:27:00.000-06:00

Two Little Feet

2006-01-27T17:42:00.000-06:00

This past week my blazer has had two small gold feet pinned to its lapel. Most people do not recognize it, yet for those who do they are quite astonished because this tiny pair of feet, however detailed down to the smallest toe, is a replica of a ten week old fetus's feet. On the one hand they are small and delicate and incense a feeling of warmth and caring inside those I would call human. On the other hand they are a stark reminder that these fetus's are living beings having distinctive bodily characteristics at ten weeks! A reminder that drives to the heart of those (and few do not fit this category) who have not had to come to terms with the outcome of this creature's existence.

This past Sunday Shelley Lee, who runs the Fort Worth Pregnancy Center, spoke at my church sense it was sanctity of life Sunday. She gave a reminder to all who were present of the problem which is in our own houses. She had a scroll of footprints that represented every child aborted in Tarrant County Texas last year. The scroll ran from one side of our large sanctuary to the other representing 20,000 abortions. It was a touching moment, a moment to see that Christians are not winning this battle.

The prevalent attitude, especially with the younger people, is that of apathy. They are moved by a story and say, "Gee that is sad" or "God please help them" then forget about it when their stomachs are calling for lunch. Now that is something I cannot stomach.

In 1984 George Orwell shows a society who had been conditioned to believe, rather passionately, whatever they were most recently told to believe. In fact he shows that in a matter of less than an hour feelings and loyalties changed 100%. His book was horrific, but if Christians do not begin screaming at the top of their lungs are problems will only increase. We think we have done something great since George W. Has gone to office. We are slowly making a move, but the Liberal media is trumping our every effort.

What to I propose? Pray and ask for the holy Spirit's help. Become active. Know the issues. Speak about the issues to your family, your friends and enemies. Speak out any chance you can. Write a book. Write an article, a letter to the editor, a letter to your Senator. Let your voice be heard. If you get opposition bear it. It is your Cross.

Our lives are not comfortable anymore. It is time to make a decision of who is most important. We are losing the battle on abortion. 35 million babies have been killed. Do we need another 35 million?

An Augustine Quote

2006-01-11T12:17:00.000-06:00

"A love that strains after the possession of the loved object is desire; and the love that possesses and enjoys that object is joy. The love that shuns what opposes it is fear, while the love that feels that opposition when it happens is grief.

Consequently, these feelings are bad, if the love is bad, and good if the love is good."

St. Augustine
City of God 14, 7

Observations about Politics & Government

2006-01-09T14:53:00.000-06:00

1.) Suppose you were an idiot. And suppose you were a member of Congress. But then I repeat myself.............Mark Twain

2) I contend that for a nation to try to tax itself into prosperity is like a man standing in a bucket and trying to lift himself up by the handle.........Winston Churchill

3) A government which robs Peter to pay Paul can always depend on the support of Paul..............George Bernard Shaw

4) A liberal is someone who feels a great debt to his fellow man, which debt he proposes to pay off with your money.............G. Gordon Liddy

5) Democracy must be something more than two wolves and a sheep voting onwhat to have for dinner.............James Bovard, Civil Libertarian (1994)

6) Foreign aid might be defined as a transfer of money from poor people in rich countries to rich people in poor countries.......Douglas Casey, Classmate of Bill Clinton at Georgetown University

7) Government is the great fiction, through which everybody endeavors to live at the expense of everybody else...........Frederic Bastiat, French Economist (1801-1850)

8) Government's view of the economy could be summed up in a few shortphrases: If it moves, tax it. If it keeps moving, regulate it. And if it stops moving, subsidize it..........Ronald Reagan (1986)

9) If you think health care is expensive now, wait until you see what it costs when it's free..........P.J. O'Rourke

10) In general, the art of government consists of taking as much money as possible from one party of the citizens to give to the other.........Voltaire (1764)

11) No man's life, liberty, or property is safe while the legislature is in session.....Mark Twain (1866)

12) The government is like a baby's alimentary canal, with a happy appetite at one end and no responsibility at the other.........Ronald Reagan

13) The only difference between a tax man and a taxidermist is that the taxidermist leaves the skin......Mark Twain

14) The ultimate result of shielding men from the effects of folly is to fill the world with fools........Herbert Spencer, English Philosopher (1820-1903)

15) There is no distinctly native American criminal class...save Congress......Mark Twain

16) What this country needs are more unemployed politicians........Edward Langley, Artist (1928 - 1995)

17) The inherent vice of capitalism is the unequal sharing of the blessings. The inherent blessing of socialism is the equal sharing of misery......................Winston Churchill

Pat Robertson and Ariel Sharon

2006-01-06T16:38:00.000-06:00

I do not intend to become involved in the issues of the Middle East. They are far more complex than I can understand. The Few people, and I mean few, that I know from over there all give different pictures of their world. It is one I cannot comprehend. However, it is a place a extreme significance for any Bible reader, especially for Pat Robertson.

If you have not heard, he proclaimed that the health issues concerning Minister Ariel Sharon "was divine retribution for the Israeli withdrawal from Gaza." You can see (however you view this issue) that this statement is quite inflammatory, as it was taken by much of the world. The White House has spoken out against his statement and with good reason.

I am not saying this is not an act of God. It could be a possibility. His way are mysterious, especially concerning the future of the Middle East (and I am no dispensationalist). However the reasoning for the comment from Mr. Robertson is as follows:

"God says, 'This land belongs to me, and you'd better leave it alone,'"

and later:

"According to The Associated Press, Robertson spokeswoman Angell Watts said of people who criticized the comments: 'What they're basically saying is, "How dare Pat Robertson quote the Bible?"'
"'This is what the word of God says," Watts told the AP. "This is nothing new to the Christian community.'"

This last statement is one that is appalling to me. This guy needs to review his hermeneutics (interpreting) skills. Am I wrong? Please let me know.

Meritocracy

2006-01-05T10:30:00.000-06:00

I came across a new word today: meritocracy.

1. A system in which advancement is based on individual ability or achievement.

2. a. A group of leaders or officeholders selected on the basis of individual ability or
achievement.
b. Leadership by such a group.

It put a whole new spin on my view of education. I was reading an article in Newsweek which compared the educational systems of Eastern Asia to the U.S. It claims that the Asian countries far exceed the U.S. in mathematics and sciences, however, these talented students do not do much with it. The difference: motivation.

This lead me to consider motivating factors in my education, and further, my faith. America is a place were achievements drive and abilities steer our paths. This has been the ethos with which most of our advancements occurred. It is a good thing for our country, our education, our everyday life. It is a bad thing for our faith.

This same system that drives America is not one that can be turned off at will, it is an ever present blessing and curse that Americans all exhibit in some degree. Sadly it carries over into our churches and our personal faith. We strive to do the next best thing for God. Much of contemporary piety (if there even is such a thing) is driven by this ambition. Others in the past have called it works.

It is a sad reminder that America is a meritocracy, especially in our churches. What we should seek after is a Theocracy.

Christmas at No Mistake

2005-12-22T16:06:00.000-06:00

The idea of vacation has become skewed in our society, or at least I think so. Most people speak of taking vacations to places which require much planning, movement, and little rest. If you are like me those are the attributes of m daily life. I go from one project to the next. From one job to the next hardly getting a chance to breathe. When I want to go on vacation I like to be able to relax and not be in a hurry to anything. This is what this week has been like.

My folks live in the middle of nowhere Mississippi on an old place which dates before the American Civil War. It is surrounded by gardens, a pond, geese and ducks and little of anything else. Its remoteness limits one's ability to get up and go to the hustle and bustle of this world. Some might think this is such a horrible thing to do because they need to be in the midst of chaos. I take this time to relax from chaos. I wake to coffee with my parents, who oddly enough become more interesting as I get older. I read for a few hours what I want to read. I get a chance to reflect for once. This is a true vacation. When I leave here I will be refreshed, renewed, ready to conquer the next onslaught of tasks which await me.

The Best Life Now

2005-12-21T09:00:00.000-06:00

It comes as no surprise to me that Joel Osteen and his family are taking a vacation this time of year. With all of the megachurches closing down for "Holiday" (because they certainly do not celebrate Christmas) it becomes a great time for these pastors to take their families on vacation. This is exactly what Joel was doing. He and his family were heading to Vail Colorado for some skiing.

However, there was a delay for these vacationers and the rest of the people on their plane. The larger story can be read at http://www.chron.com/disp/story.mpl/front/3538956.html but the gist of the story is that Victoria is a prima donna who forgets that outside of Lakewood most do not care who she is. She ends up banging on the cockpit door and gets her and her family booted off the plane holding up the flight for two hours.

This only exemplifies the "best life" these Osteens are trying to show the world. This incident stands in stark contrast to the missionaries my church commissioned this past week. Three couples were sent to the utter-most parts of the world to join the many others who cannot even tell where they are going. These people understand a different "best life." One that is in search of gain on this temporary sphere but strive to work for the kingdom that has no end.

Maybe the Osteens need to do some gut checks about practicing what they preach, but then again have you heard what they preach? But that is another blog.

Narnia

2005-12-14T10:45:00.000-06:00

On a much anticipated day I allowed myself the rare treat of going to the movies. The reason I do not frequent films these days is for various reasons. I could list the moral depravity of Hollywood or I could make claims as to poor cinematography and a loss of art, but mostly I choose to spend my money elsewhere. However, this treat I awarded myself.

It has been asked of me if I loved it, the movie that is. My response has been one that usually deflates anyone who exuberantly expresses the need for al of Christendom to go and watch this film. (A passion which would revolutionize the kingdom if it were focused on reading the very Word of God, but that is a different post.)

Let begin by stating that I really enjoyed the film. It was well done and it almost represented the story Lewis wrote. These are admirable thing for any movie adapted from a book. In fact the movie lead my mother and my niece into a conversation about Jesus Christ and it helped clarify some Christology in my nieces mind.

What I did not like about the film might seem too small for some, however they are important for me. First, the line "he is not tame but he is good" which is one of the last lines of the film from Mr. Tumnus is not exactly the same in the book. I think this line is one of the most important lines of the whole series and it was slighlty stripped of its significance. Lewis placed it in the mouth of Badger and he said "Safe, of course he is not safe, but he is good." To me there is a difference between tame and safe. There is also a difference about the placement of the all important phrase. In the book it comes prior to the introduction of Aslan which paints a reader/viewers perception of the Christ figure in the story.

Second, I do want to laud praises on Disney for speaking of the Deep magic and the atonement language which Lewis incorporated, however I think there could have been a few more lines which explained the significance of the Stone Table breaking in two.

I hope I have not discouraged anyone from seeing this film. It was a treat for me and I anxiously await the next one.

Closed for Christmas?

2005-12-06T17:02:00.000-06:00

I admit it. I like the restaurant Jack in the Box. They make a good hamburger (not so great on fries). I find myself going to stop by there often to pick up a burger or egg rolls or a shake. This is a journey often made later in the evening when I am lazy and hungry. However, what I notice when I have been going through the drive through lately is its holiday hours. They have posted the times which they will be open on Christmas and New Years. Yes they will be open. Years ago there would have been an uproar about a business operating on a religious holiday, and especially this year, a Sunday. No one is hollering this year. Jack will be available.

What is astonishing is not that businesses are open on Christmas, but that churches are closed. Sure, in the past most churches have not had Christmas Day services. There is a "traditional" Christmas Eve service which is very emotional and hear warming. Then they can go home put the kids in bed because Santa is coming. However, this year Christmas is on Sunday, the day the church has worshiped from its beginnings, and many churches, including mega churches like Willow Creek-Bill Hybels, Fellowship Church in Grapevine-Ed Young Jr., and Northpoint Community Church-Andy Stanley-will be closed.

When I hear these things I do not know what to think. What has gone wrong? Where did the church cease to exist for God and begin to focus upon itself? Has American individuality and consumerism driven our churches too far?

Lets review something. First, Sundays are a day of worship. Christians have treated them as the "Sabbath" for centuries. It is the day of rest and communion with God. Second, Christmas is a celebration of the coming of Christ. To use the cliche: "He is the reason for the season." Now it would only seem obvious that when these two days coincided Christians would have more of a chance to celebrate and gather together. So what has happened that has made some of the largest churches the world has ever seen decide they will not meet that day?

There are reports from these churches that attendance will be down so they decided to cancel. There have been excuses offered that point to all of the other "Christmas" events scheduled. I suppose they think that the day is not extremely sacred, and its not in and of itself. However, the message I think that is being sent (and perhaps the underlying reality) is that many Churches only do activities which cater to the needs of their congregations. This teaches their members (if there are any real ones) that they are more important than God. God has been lessened to an entity to call upon when you need your best life now. He is not the feared God of the Bible.

Sounds harsh? Maybe so, but when you have churches who are focused on what their attenders need more than the worship the Bible mandates you will eventually have problems.

I will be in church Christmas morning celebrating the coming of our (not my) King. Will you?

Christmas and the ACLU

2005-12-02T17:46:00.000-06:00

I saw this on the website stoptheaclu.com. I have not read what this organization is primarily promoting, but I saw the picture and I thought it was quite interesting.

I do find this picture funny, very funny. However, at the same time I find myself wondering how many of our Christian liberties will be taken away before we stand firm with these attacks from the far left.

I whole heartedly believe we have a social responsibility as Christian in this nation, yet we remain silent. I want to join Rod Parsley in at least his title "Silent No More." The problem with the picture to the left is that many Christians do act that way. They are driven by fear of how people will view them instead of a holy fear of God.

This season lets remember Christ: the reason for Christmas. Then when we make our resolutions, lets make a resolution to be silent no more on these issues. The liberal media has an audience because the conservative right is barely whispering.

Why Thanksgiving Matters

2005-11-23T09:55:00.000-06:00

Why Thanksgiving Matters, by Al Mohler

Wednesday, November 23, 2005

The holiday police are at it again--looking for violations of the nation's new policy of separating faith and civic celebrations. The same folks who will soon be trolling courthouse squares looking for manger scenes are now calling on Americans to have a happy Thanksgiving . . . But leave God out of it.

School textbooks filled with revisionist history tell children that the first Thanksgiving was a celebration at which the Pilgrims thanked the Indians for teaching them how to survive the harsh New England climate and plant successful crops. God is simply not part of the picture.
Some educators, worried that even the word "thanksgiving" might be too controversial, have renamed the holiday "Turkey Day." Of course, this implies that the central thrust of the celebration comes down to poultry.

The revisionist historians want to have it both ways. They present the Pilgrims as wild-eyed religious fanatics--precursors to the Religious Right--and then suggest that the first Thanksgiving was essentially a secular holiday.

The historical basis for the Thanksgiving observance is clear. In 1621, the Pilgrims celebrated "the goodness of God" as they feasted with friendly local Indians. In reality, the Pilgrims had faced far greater adversity than had been expected. The climate was harsh, the crops were sparse, the native peoples were often hostile, and their ranks were thinning. Hunger, disease, discomfort, and discouragement were ever close at hand.

Aiming for Virginia, these Christians--dissenting from the Church of England and determined to establish a truly Christian community--actually landed in New England. That miscalculation meant that disaster was almost certain. Nevertheless, they "fell upon their knees and blessed the God of heaven who had brought them over this vast and furious ocean," recorded Governor William Bradford.

In 1789, President George Washington declared the first national day of Thanksgiving by asking Americans to "unite in most humbly offering our prayer and supplications to the great Lord and Ruler of nations."

Later presidents followed Washington's example. Abraham Lincoln issued moving Thanksgiving proclamations during the Civil War. Franklin Roosevelt, who regulars the holiday on the national calendar, called the nation to thankfulness in the middle of World War II: "The Almighty God has blessed our nation in many ways. He has given our people stout hearts and strong arms with which to strike mighty blows for freedom and truth.... So we pray to Him now for a vision to see our way clearly--to see the way that leads to a better life for ourselves and for our fellow men--to the achievement of His will, to peace on earth."

Is all this just a demonstration of civil religion? Do most Americans really follow the example of the Pilgrims in expressing thankfulness to God, or is it just another holiday with emotional overtones--and an orgy of overeating?

Millions of Americans will, no doubt, celebrate an essentially secular festival. For them, it might as well be "Turkey Day" or something equally vacuous. This reveals the most important contrast between the Pilgrims and the current generation. The Pilgrims were driven by a worldview that was centered in the worship of the one true and living God, the Creator of the universe, the Father of the Lord Jesus Christ. They understood His providential rule over the universe to explain everything that happened to them--and everything that blessed them. They did not attribute their survival in New England to their own fortitude--nor to the help of the Indians--but to God.

Secularized Americans are driven by no impulse to give thanks, and wouldn't know to whom thanks should be addressed. They think of themselves as self-sufficient, self-directed, and self-reliant. Their horizon of thankfulness is, to say the least, rather low.
The civic holiday may not mean a great deal to many moderns--but that doesn't mean that it is meaningless. At the very least, it implies that we cannot really take care of ourselves. That is just as true today as it was in Pilgrim New England.

Christians understand that the call to thanksgiving is far more urgent than a holiday, and far more important than the calendar. True thanksgiving cannot be limited to a day or a season. We recognize that God has given us everything that we have--and everything that we need. We acknowledge our unconditional dependence upon Him for every second of our lives, every morsel we will eat, and every joy we will ever experience.

Deserving nothing but God's wrath, we were granted forgiveness through the Son. Needing all things, we have been given everything needful for our salvation and eternal life. To these God has added joys, comforts, and provision beyond our imagination--"far more abundantly than all that we ask or think." [Ephesians 3:20]

So, gather together to give thanks to God. While others celebrate "Turkey Day" and ponder poultry, direct your thoughts to the God of Heaven, by whose hand we have been brought near and given more than we can even remember.

The Pilgrims knew to whom they were praying--and why. Let's follow their example and remember that their dependence upon God was no greater than our own.

New Blog, Same Guy

2005-11-18T08:53:00.000-06:00

For reasons unmentioned, I have stopped blogging on my old site, however I felt this overt sense of longing to rejoin the blogging community. Not as a pseudo-journalist who wishes to comment on every bit of gossip freely flowing across the e-wires, but as a conscientious student desiring to edify the masses (or at least those who stumble across this page).