Here is a link to Ed Decker's website called Saints Alive In Jesus. Have a look around the place and gather the info that you need. Mr Decker's a wonderful apologist from the 1st generation of apologists like Walter Martin.
http://saintsalive.com/
Saturday, December 31, 2011
Friday, November 18, 2011
Good Advice from J. Lee Grady.
Here is some advice form Mr. Grady that needs to be heard...
It’s (Past) Time for a Charismatic Reformation
In honor of Reformation Day, here are some complaints I’m nailing on the Wittenberg door.
Long before there was an Occupy Wall Street, Martin Luther staged the most important protest in history. He was upset because Roman Catholic officials were promising people forgiveness or early escape from purgatory in exchange for money. So on October 31, 1517, Luther nailed a long list of complaints on the door of a church in Wittenberg, Germany.
Luther’s famous 95 theses were translated from Latin into German and spread abroad. Like a medieval Jeremiah, Luther dared to ask questions that had never been asked, and he challenged a pope who was supposedly infallible. Through this brave monk, the Holy Spirit sparked the Protestant Reformation and restored the doctrine of grace to a church that had become corrupt, religious, dysfunctional, political and spiritually dead.
“I’ve grown increasingly aware that the so-called ‘Spirit-filled’ church of today struggles with many of the same things the Catholic church faced in the 1500s. We don’t have ‘indulgences’—we have telethons. We don’t have popes—we have super-apostles.”
I am no Luther, but I’ve grown increasingly aware that the so-called “Spirit-filled” church of today struggles with many of the same things the Catholic church faced in the 1500s. We don’t have “indulgences”—we have telethons. We don’t have popes—we have super-apostles. We don’t support an untouchable priesthood—we throw our money at celebrity evangelists who own fleets of private jets.
In honor of Reformation Day, I’m offering my own list of needed reforms in our movement. And since I can’t hammer these on the Wittenberg door, I’ll post them online. Feel free to nail them everywhere.
1. Let’s reform our theology. The Holy Spirit is the third person of the Trinity. He is God and He is holy. He is not an “it.” He is not a blob, a force, or an innate power. We must stop manipulating Him, commanding Him and throwing Him around.
2. Let’s return to the Bible. The Word of God is the foundation for the Christian experience. Any dramatic experience, no matter how spiritual it seems, must be tested by the Word and the Holy Spirit’s discernment. Visions, dreams, prophecies and encounters with angels must be in line with Scripture. If we don’t test them we could end up spreading deception.
3. It’s time for personal responsibility. We charismatics must stop blaming everything on demons. People are usually the problem.
4. Stop playing games. Spiritual warfare is a reality, but we are not going to win the world to Jesus just by shouting at demonic principalities. We must pray, preach and persevere to see ultimate victory.
5. Stop the foolishness. People who hit, slap or push others during prayer should be asked to sit down until they learn gentleness is a fruit of the Holy Spirit.
6. End all spiritual extortion now. Christian television ministries must cease and desist from all manipulative fundraising tactics. We must stop giving platforms to ministers who make outlandish claims of supernatural financial returns, especially when Scripture is twisted, deadlines are imposed and the poor are exploited.
7. No more Lone Rangers. Those who claim to be ministers of God—whether they are traveling evangelists, local pastors or heads of ministries—must be accountable to other leaders. Any who refuse to submit their lives to godly discipline should be corrected.
8. Expose the creeps. Churches should start doing background checks on traveling ministers. Preachers who have been hiding criminal records, lying about their past marriages, preying on women or refusing to pay child support should be exposed as charlatans and shunned if they do not repent.
9. Stop faking the anointing. God is God, and He does not need our “help” to manifest Himself. That means we don’t sprinkle glitter on ourselves to suggest God’s glory is with us, hide fake jewels on the floor to prove we are anointed or pull chicken feathers out of our sleeves to pretend angels are in the room. This is lying to the Holy Spirit.
10. Let’s return to purity. We’ve had enough scandals. The charismatic church must develop a system for the restoration of fallen ministers. Those who fall morally can be restored, but they must be willing to submit to a process of healing rather than rushing immediately back into the pulpit.
11. We need humility. Ministers who demand celebrity treatment, require lavish salaries, insist on titles or exhibit aloofness from others are guilty of spiritual pride.
12. No more big shots. Apostles are the bondslaves of Christ, and should be the most impeccable models of humility. True apostles do not wield top-down, hierarchical authority over the church. They serve the church from the bottom up as true servants.
13. Never promote gifts at the expense of character. Those who operate in prophecy, healing and miracles must also exhibit the fruit of the Spirit. And while we continue to encourage the gift of tongues, let’s make sure we don’t treat it like some kind of badge of superiority. The world needs to see our love, not our glossolalia.
14. Hold the prophets accountable. Those who refuse to take responsibility for inaccurate statements should not be given platforms. And “prophets” who live immoral lives don’t deserve a public voice.
15. Let’s make the main thing the main thing. The purpose of the Holy Spirit’s anointing is to empower us to reach others. We are at a crossroads today: Either we continue off-course, entertained by our charismatic sideshows, or we throw ourselves into evangelism, church planting, missions, discipleship, and compassionate ministry that helps the poor and fights injustice. Churches that embrace this New Reformation will focus on God’s priorities.
J. Lee Grady is contributing editor of Charisma. You can follow him on Twitter at leegrady. He expounds on these topics in his 2010 book The Holy Spirit Is Not for Sale (Chosen).
Oh we need to learn some things.
It’s (Past) Time for a Charismatic Reformation
In honor of Reformation Day, here are some complaints I’m nailing on the Wittenberg door.
Long before there was an Occupy Wall Street, Martin Luther staged the most important protest in history. He was upset because Roman Catholic officials were promising people forgiveness or early escape from purgatory in exchange for money. So on October 31, 1517, Luther nailed a long list of complaints on the door of a church in Wittenberg, Germany.
Luther’s famous 95 theses were translated from Latin into German and spread abroad. Like a medieval Jeremiah, Luther dared to ask questions that had never been asked, and he challenged a pope who was supposedly infallible. Through this brave monk, the Holy Spirit sparked the Protestant Reformation and restored the doctrine of grace to a church that had become corrupt, religious, dysfunctional, political and spiritually dead.
“I’ve grown increasingly aware that the so-called ‘Spirit-filled’ church of today struggles with many of the same things the Catholic church faced in the 1500s. We don’t have ‘indulgences’—we have telethons. We don’t have popes—we have super-apostles.”
I am no Luther, but I’ve grown increasingly aware that the so-called “Spirit-filled” church of today struggles with many of the same things the Catholic church faced in the 1500s. We don’t have “indulgences”—we have telethons. We don’t have popes—we have super-apostles. We don’t support an untouchable priesthood—we throw our money at celebrity evangelists who own fleets of private jets.
In honor of Reformation Day, I’m offering my own list of needed reforms in our movement. And since I can’t hammer these on the Wittenberg door, I’ll post them online. Feel free to nail them everywhere.
1. Let’s reform our theology. The Holy Spirit is the third person of the Trinity. He is God and He is holy. He is not an “it.” He is not a blob, a force, or an innate power. We must stop manipulating Him, commanding Him and throwing Him around.
2. Let’s return to the Bible. The Word of God is the foundation for the Christian experience. Any dramatic experience, no matter how spiritual it seems, must be tested by the Word and the Holy Spirit’s discernment. Visions, dreams, prophecies and encounters with angels must be in line with Scripture. If we don’t test them we could end up spreading deception.
3. It’s time for personal responsibility. We charismatics must stop blaming everything on demons. People are usually the problem.
4. Stop playing games. Spiritual warfare is a reality, but we are not going to win the world to Jesus just by shouting at demonic principalities. We must pray, preach and persevere to see ultimate victory.
5. Stop the foolishness. People who hit, slap or push others during prayer should be asked to sit down until they learn gentleness is a fruit of the Holy Spirit.
6. End all spiritual extortion now. Christian television ministries must cease and desist from all manipulative fundraising tactics. We must stop giving platforms to ministers who make outlandish claims of supernatural financial returns, especially when Scripture is twisted, deadlines are imposed and the poor are exploited.
7. No more Lone Rangers. Those who claim to be ministers of God—whether they are traveling evangelists, local pastors or heads of ministries—must be accountable to other leaders. Any who refuse to submit their lives to godly discipline should be corrected.
8. Expose the creeps. Churches should start doing background checks on traveling ministers. Preachers who have been hiding criminal records, lying about their past marriages, preying on women or refusing to pay child support should be exposed as charlatans and shunned if they do not repent.
9. Stop faking the anointing. God is God, and He does not need our “help” to manifest Himself. That means we don’t sprinkle glitter on ourselves to suggest God’s glory is with us, hide fake jewels on the floor to prove we are anointed or pull chicken feathers out of our sleeves to pretend angels are in the room. This is lying to the Holy Spirit.
10. Let’s return to purity. We’ve had enough scandals. The charismatic church must develop a system for the restoration of fallen ministers. Those who fall morally can be restored, but they must be willing to submit to a process of healing rather than rushing immediately back into the pulpit.
11. We need humility. Ministers who demand celebrity treatment, require lavish salaries, insist on titles or exhibit aloofness from others are guilty of spiritual pride.
12. No more big shots. Apostles are the bondslaves of Christ, and should be the most impeccable models of humility. True apostles do not wield top-down, hierarchical authority over the church. They serve the church from the bottom up as true servants.
13. Never promote gifts at the expense of character. Those who operate in prophecy, healing and miracles must also exhibit the fruit of the Spirit. And while we continue to encourage the gift of tongues, let’s make sure we don’t treat it like some kind of badge of superiority. The world needs to see our love, not our glossolalia.
14. Hold the prophets accountable. Those who refuse to take responsibility for inaccurate statements should not be given platforms. And “prophets” who live immoral lives don’t deserve a public voice.
15. Let’s make the main thing the main thing. The purpose of the Holy Spirit’s anointing is to empower us to reach others. We are at a crossroads today: Either we continue off-course, entertained by our charismatic sideshows, or we throw ourselves into evangelism, church planting, missions, discipleship, and compassionate ministry that helps the poor and fights injustice. Churches that embrace this New Reformation will focus on God’s priorities.
J. Lee Grady is contributing editor of Charisma. You can follow him on Twitter at leegrady. He expounds on these topics in his 2010 book The Holy Spirit Is Not for Sale (Chosen).
Oh we need to learn some things.
Saturday, October 22, 2011
A Post From Apologetics Guy Website.
Mikel Del Rosario has some interesting tips on his website about witnessing to Cult members. Read it here.
10 Surprisingly Simple Tips for Talking with Cult Members – Part 1.
Pop Quiz
Here’s the scenario: A couple of clean-cut guys on bikes show up at your door. White shirts. Black name badges. What do you do?
A. Pretend you're not home
B. Crack open the door and try to get rid of them
C. Stand in the doorway and talk with them
D. Invite them in and talk with themSpiritual Talk at Your Door?
I still remember feeling kind of uneasy the first time I met a couple of Mormon missionaries. Maybe you can relate. A lot Christians don’t feel confident when spiritual talk comes knocking at the door.
In this series, I’ll share 10 surprisingly simple tips for talking about Biblical Christianity with cult members. This is very practical advice that represents countless conversations with Mormon missionaries, Jehovah’s Witnesses and others who follow cults of Christianity. I learned these lessons directly from one of my mentors, Kevin Lewis, at Biola University.
And these tips aren’t just for for talking with cult members who show up at your door. You can apply a lot of these ideas to just about any spiritual conversation you might have. But first, let’s get something straight.
What is a Cult?
The word “cult” seems like a loaded term. Most people think a cult just means a group of religious wackos who do some truly crazy stuff: Jim Jones, the Heaven’s Gate cult—even Harold Camping’s followers (who really thought the world would end today). That’s not too bad of a definition, if you’re talking about the sociological definition of a cult. In sociology, the term “cult” just means a religion that’s outside the mainstream religions you see in society.
But there’s actually a more technical definition. For our purposes, I’m gonna go with a theological definition of a cult. One of my former professors at Talbot School of Theology, Alan Gomes, defined it well in his book, Unmasking the Cults:
A cult of Christianity is a group of people claiming to be Christian, who embrace a particular doctrinal system taught by an individual leader, group of leaders, or organization, which (system) denies (either explicitly or implicitly) one or more of the essential doctrines of the Christian faith as taught in the sixty-six books of the Bible (p. 7).
This would describe the views of people who come to your door, saying they follow the Bible’s teachings but think Jesus isn’t God (Jehovah’s Witnesses), or that everyone can become a god (Mormons). These were the two groups Kevin focused on the most while teaching my Cults of America class back in the day. In this class, I learned a surprisingly simple question that every Christian should ask the cult member at your door. Before you start talking, do this to keep your discussion from getting cut short right when it starts to get interesting:
Tip #1: Ask, “How much time do you have?”
Cult members generally want to discuss spiritual things. After all, that’s why they showed up at your door! But when an informed Christan starts asking tough questions about their teachings, some may be quick to abandon the discussion. This is especially true with Mormon missionaries. For example, one of the missionaries might suddenly say they’re late for another appointment or have to leave abruptly for some reason. So, before you begin, ask, “How much time do you have?” Most will probably be OK with about an hour. Once you get the commitment, you’re ready to begin.
Of course, your preparation should begin way before they show up. Here’s another surprisingly simple thing you can do to prepare for impromptu spiritual conversations at your door—something even experienced defenders of the faith might sometimes overlook.
Tip #2: Pray, Pray, Pray
Before the conversation ever happens, pray. Ask God to give you wisdom and help you think clearly. Pray that the people you talk with would take a step closer to a real relationship with Jesus. Ask the Holy Spirit to guide your discussion. Prayer is key in these everyday situations.
Tell the missionaries you’d like to pray with them before diving into your conversation. You can lead into the discussion with a prayer that highlights an essential Christian doctrine. Something like this:
Lord Jesus, there is no one like you. We’re so grateful that you would take on a human nature, die for our sins, rise from the dead, and offer salvation as a free gift through faith…
People tend to actually listen to the words of a prayer and this helps the people you’re talking to focus on essential truths of the faith. As Kevin often reminded me, “Nobody will interrupt a prayer!”
After they leave, pray for them. If I remember, I actually write down their names in the back of my Bible and pray for them when I’m in church. Who knows how God might direct their path and lead them to freedom in Christ?
Next Time
In the next part of this series, I’ll share 4 more surprisingly simple tips for talking to cult members about spiritual things. In the meantime, please share any ideas you might have for opening up the lines of communication and having good conversations with people who follow the cults of Christianity. Drop a comment below.
Cult Following
Discover how groups like the Mormon church and Jehovah’s Witnesses emerged in the United States. Learn the important figures, histories, documents, and ideas behind key religious movements and the cults of Christianity. This is an updated version of Walter Martin’s classic work, “The Kingdom of the Cults.” His original book was one of the first books I ever read on cults. Highly recommended.
From the website: http://www.apologeticsguy.com/2011/10/witnessing-sharing-the-gospel-cult-members/
10 Surprisingly Simple Tips for Talking with Cult Members – Part 1.
Pop Quiz
Here’s the scenario: A couple of clean-cut guys on bikes show up at your door. White shirts. Black name badges. What do you do?
A. Pretend you're not home
B. Crack open the door and try to get rid of them
C. Stand in the doorway and talk with them
D. Invite them in and talk with themSpiritual Talk at Your Door?
I still remember feeling kind of uneasy the first time I met a couple of Mormon missionaries. Maybe you can relate. A lot Christians don’t feel confident when spiritual talk comes knocking at the door.
In this series, I’ll share 10 surprisingly simple tips for talking about Biblical Christianity with cult members. This is very practical advice that represents countless conversations with Mormon missionaries, Jehovah’s Witnesses and others who follow cults of Christianity. I learned these lessons directly from one of my mentors, Kevin Lewis, at Biola University.
And these tips aren’t just for for talking with cult members who show up at your door. You can apply a lot of these ideas to just about any spiritual conversation you might have. But first, let’s get something straight.
What is a Cult?
The word “cult” seems like a loaded term. Most people think a cult just means a group of religious wackos who do some truly crazy stuff: Jim Jones, the Heaven’s Gate cult—even Harold Camping’s followers (who really thought the world would end today). That’s not too bad of a definition, if you’re talking about the sociological definition of a cult. In sociology, the term “cult” just means a religion that’s outside the mainstream religions you see in society.
But there’s actually a more technical definition. For our purposes, I’m gonna go with a theological definition of a cult. One of my former professors at Talbot School of Theology, Alan Gomes, defined it well in his book, Unmasking the Cults:
A cult of Christianity is a group of people claiming to be Christian, who embrace a particular doctrinal system taught by an individual leader, group of leaders, or organization, which (system) denies (either explicitly or implicitly) one or more of the essential doctrines of the Christian faith as taught in the sixty-six books of the Bible (p. 7).
This would describe the views of people who come to your door, saying they follow the Bible’s teachings but think Jesus isn’t God (Jehovah’s Witnesses), or that everyone can become a god (Mormons). These were the two groups Kevin focused on the most while teaching my Cults of America class back in the day. In this class, I learned a surprisingly simple question that every Christian should ask the cult member at your door. Before you start talking, do this to keep your discussion from getting cut short right when it starts to get interesting:
Tip #1: Ask, “How much time do you have?”
Cult members generally want to discuss spiritual things. After all, that’s why they showed up at your door! But when an informed Christan starts asking tough questions about their teachings, some may be quick to abandon the discussion. This is especially true with Mormon missionaries. For example, one of the missionaries might suddenly say they’re late for another appointment or have to leave abruptly for some reason. So, before you begin, ask, “How much time do you have?” Most will probably be OK with about an hour. Once you get the commitment, you’re ready to begin.
Of course, your preparation should begin way before they show up. Here’s another surprisingly simple thing you can do to prepare for impromptu spiritual conversations at your door—something even experienced defenders of the faith might sometimes overlook.
Tip #2: Pray, Pray, Pray
Before the conversation ever happens, pray. Ask God to give you wisdom and help you think clearly. Pray that the people you talk with would take a step closer to a real relationship with Jesus. Ask the Holy Spirit to guide your discussion. Prayer is key in these everyday situations.
Tell the missionaries you’d like to pray with them before diving into your conversation. You can lead into the discussion with a prayer that highlights an essential Christian doctrine. Something like this:
Lord Jesus, there is no one like you. We’re so grateful that you would take on a human nature, die for our sins, rise from the dead, and offer salvation as a free gift through faith…
People tend to actually listen to the words of a prayer and this helps the people you’re talking to focus on essential truths of the faith. As Kevin often reminded me, “Nobody will interrupt a prayer!”
After they leave, pray for them. If I remember, I actually write down their names in the back of my Bible and pray for them when I’m in church. Who knows how God might direct their path and lead them to freedom in Christ?
Next Time
In the next part of this series, I’ll share 4 more surprisingly simple tips for talking to cult members about spiritual things. In the meantime, please share any ideas you might have for opening up the lines of communication and having good conversations with people who follow the cults of Christianity. Drop a comment below.
Cult Following
Discover how groups like the Mormon church and Jehovah’s Witnesses emerged in the United States. Learn the important figures, histories, documents, and ideas behind key religious movements and the cults of Christianity. This is an updated version of Walter Martin’s classic work, “The Kingdom of the Cults.” His original book was one of the first books I ever read on cults. Highly recommended.
From the website: http://www.apologeticsguy.com/2011/10/witnessing-sharing-the-gospel-cult-members/
Tuesday, October 11, 2011
Recently bought
I recently bought a few book. One of them was the MASSIVE apologetics text by Douglas Groothuis entitled Christian Apologetics: A Comprehensive Case for Biblical Faith. It clock in at 752 pages from IVP. I will look forward to reading this but it will have to wait as I have other things on the plate right now. Keep reading and learn something.
Saturday, September 10, 2011
D.A. Carson and R.C. Sproul
Here is a short video on the meaning of exegesis.
Enjoy!
RC Sproul interviews DA Carson on biblical exegesis from Ligonier on Vimeo.
Enjoy!
Thursday, August 18, 2011
Sermon Prep. on LOGOS!
You know that after seminary I have a thousand sermons to write. And I believe that Logos can help and found this series on sermon prep online. It at least gives me some ideas. Here is the videos...
Enjoy! And learn something!
Enjoy! And learn something!
Wednesday, August 17, 2011
Is 1 John 3:5 About the Father or the Son?
Have you ever been confronted with 1 John 3:5 and the claim that the Father was manifested in the flesh? I have and James White has provided a wonderful explaination of the passage.
Can't wait for their debate in October. Good luck.
Can't wait for their debate in October. Good luck.
Thursday, August 11, 2011
Mormons....
You know I do not know enough about mormons. I believe in my heaert that they are seeking something but it is not God. This film was about mormons and the truth.
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MkGlzzr_9ik&feature=related)
WOW!
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MkGlzzr_9ik&feature=related)
WOW!
Monday, August 1, 2011
Dr Robert Morey explains the Trinity!
Here is a simple (well I guess not so simple) explanation of the Trinity.
Enjoy!
Enjoy!
Sunday, July 31, 2011
Can not go to seminary....
Hey there are many people that can not go to seminary but you can learn from some of the nations best seminary profs. listen and learn from them at Biblical Training. A site that is the brainchild of Greek teacher Bill Mounce.
http://www.biblicaltraining.org/
Enjoy!
http://www.biblicaltraining.org/
Enjoy!
Interview of some Christian MC's
I love the fact that MCing and the culture of rap music is being influenced by Christianity. I am from the Old School, the first generation of rap out there and I think....
IT'S ABOUT TIME!
Justin Taylor Interview: Lecrae Moore and Trip Lee from Crossway on Vimeo.
Enjoy!
IT'S ABOUT TIME!
Justin Taylor Interview: Lecrae Moore and Trip Lee from Crossway on Vimeo.
Enjoy!
Friday, July 22, 2011
How to Control Doctrine Before the Bible was the Bible.
Here is a video of Darrell Bock from DTS on how we received dotrine before the finished product of the Bible.
Enjoy!
Enjoy!
Tuesday, July 19, 2011
Found a wonderful site!
Hello,
I ran across a w!onderful site today and I thought you might enjoy it. Here it is: http://www.womenandapologetics.blogspot.com/
Enjoy
I ran across a w!onderful site today and I thought you might enjoy it. Here it is: http://www.womenandapologetics.blogspot.com/
Enjoy
Saturday, June 25, 2011
Is Christian Rap Good for Christianity?
When I was a little bit younger, there was some christian raps out that sounded like little kids songs. But now there are some POWERFUL rap songs out. Here is one...
All praises are due to God!
All praises are due to God!
Thursday, June 23, 2011
Tuesday, June 21, 2011
Is the Universe eternal?
Check Out strplace.com and there website.
Good stuff. Christians we have the goods... go share your faith!
Good stuff. Christians we have the goods... go share your faith!
Thursday, May 26, 2011
New Documentary Coming...
I just saw the preview to this and I have to go see it. Watch and weep...
Lord help us!
Lord help us!
Friday, May 20, 2011
A Brief Introduction to Apologetics
A brief introduction to apologetics by Frank Turek.
Visit Frank's website here: crossexamined.org/
Visit Frank's website here: crossexamined.org/
Mike Licona on Training Children
A great article by Mike Licona of the North American Mission Board, on training up the next generation, especially those in your house.
FIRST-PERSON: We must prepare the next generation to defend the faith
Mike Licona
ALPHARETTA, Ga. (BP)--I have a confession: I failed as a parent to prepare my children to defend their Christian faith. My failure is especially embarrassing because I'm a Christian apologist.
Since apologetics is a rational defense of the Christian faith, I travel around North America and sometimes outside it sharing the remarkable historical, scientific and philosophical evidence supporting the truth of the Christian faith. I equip Christians with evidence so they may have a strengthened faith they can share confidently with others. Through lectures and public debates I also challenge seekers of truth to give the evidence a fair look and become a Christ follower.
Yet, I never equipped my own children. There were two reasons why. I'm not discounting a bit of laziness on my part, but my wife and I have always wanted the faith of our children to be their own and not ours. And we made the huge mistake of assuming their youth pastors would occasionally touch on Christian evidences. I was shocked about two years ago when I asked both of my children how often they had received teaching related to Christian apologetics during their Sunday School classes and youth group meetings. Answer: Never. Not once? Zero. Zilch. Nada.
This void was even more alarming when I realized that our family had been members of several churches during their lifetimes. So, it wasn't the neglect of a single youth leader. What were their leaders teaching? Admittedly, they didn't remember much. They played video games, other games, did fun things, had nice periods of worship, and received Bible lessons that, for the most part, they didn't recall.
Did their youth pastors drop the ball on preparing them adequately to withstand the attacks on their faith they would experience when they went off to college? Yes. But the buck stops with Dad. I failed and I admit I'm embarrassed because, of all people, the children of an apologist should know the evidence.
Let's take a moment and look at the situation in which our children find themselves. This will help us to see why it's important to equip them with both evidences and answers to the difficult questions. University campuses are growing increasingly hostile toward evangelical students. A 2007 report by two Jewish researchers found a strong bias against evangelical students at secular universities.[1] More than 1,200 faculty members from 712 colleges and universities were interviewed pertaining to their feelings toward various religious followers. The results were alarming. Three percent of American faculty members admitted having negative or unfavorable feelings toward Jews while 33 percent admitted having them toward Muslims. But 53 percent admitted having negative or unfavorable feelings toward evangelical Christians. The researchers concluded, "Conservative Christians have for some time been concerned about their children's campus environment. These data certainly legitimize their concerns."
But it didn't stop there. To their shock, these Jewish researches likewise discovered that a significant number of American faculty members want Muslims to play a greater role in the American political process while wanting evangelicals to stay out of it. But why? After all, generally speaking, most Muslims are pro-life, against homosexual marriage and women's rights, at least as they are enjoyed by American women. To me, this suggests we are in much more than a cultural war between political conservatives and liberals. It goes beyond secularism and the religious. On many of our college campuses, it is a war against evangelical Christianity.
I personally have had numerous students from all over North America inform me that professors, on the first day of class, said their objective was to rid Christian students of their faith by the end of the semester. That's right. The professor openly stated in class that his or her objective was to rid Christian students of their faith within the next hundred days. Can you imagine what would happen if those same professors had instead asked how many of his or her students were Muslims ... or Jews? They would have been labeled "Islamaphobe" or "anti-Semite" and would soon have joined a number of others in the job market. But faculty members often get a pass if they're a "Christophobe."
Some good news is that a large number of Christian college students have a strong interest in apologetics, which is now a necessary component for nourishing students for a healthy faith and continuous growth in a vibrant walk with Christ. Some of these students will become church planters, missionaries, pastors, youth pastors and seminary professors. However, if we neglect familiarizing our college students with apologetics now, will we find far fewer members in SBC churches 20 years from now? From where will our next generation of church leaders come?
The North American Mission Board has created free apologetics resources. At
4truth.net, viewers have access to nearly 200 articles and can listen to more than a dozen interviews with leading scholars and scientists. Most of the articles are available in five languages. We recently posted a five-part video series with discussion questions for use by groups and individuals on the topic of the historical evidence for Jesus' resurrection. NAMB also has a certification program in apologetics.
Church planters, pastors, and BCM leaders can benefit from nearly a year's supply of free PowerPoint presentations on apologetics topics we have created for them. [Please contact your state director of evangelism or director of missions for information on how to obtain these.]
--30--
Michael Licona is the apologetics coordinator at the North American Mission Board.
A good article and a wake up call to the church of Jesus Christ.
FIRST-PERSON: We must prepare the next generation to defend the faith
Mike Licona
ALPHARETTA, Ga. (BP)--I have a confession: I failed as a parent to prepare my children to defend their Christian faith. My failure is especially embarrassing because I'm a Christian apologist. Since apologetics is a rational defense of the Christian faith, I travel around North America and sometimes outside it sharing the remarkable historical, scientific and philosophical evidence supporting the truth of the Christian faith. I equip Christians with evidence so they may have a strengthened faith they can share confidently with others. Through lectures and public debates I also challenge seekers of truth to give the evidence a fair look and become a Christ follower.
Yet, I never equipped my own children. There were two reasons why. I'm not discounting a bit of laziness on my part, but my wife and I have always wanted the faith of our children to be their own and not ours. And we made the huge mistake of assuming their youth pastors would occasionally touch on Christian evidences. I was shocked about two years ago when I asked both of my children how often they had received teaching related to Christian apologetics during their Sunday School classes and youth group meetings. Answer: Never. Not once? Zero. Zilch. Nada.
This void was even more alarming when I realized that our family had been members of several churches during their lifetimes. So, it wasn't the neglect of a single youth leader. What were their leaders teaching? Admittedly, they didn't remember much. They played video games, other games, did fun things, had nice periods of worship, and received Bible lessons that, for the most part, they didn't recall.
Did their youth pastors drop the ball on preparing them adequately to withstand the attacks on their faith they would experience when they went off to college? Yes. But the buck stops with Dad. I failed and I admit I'm embarrassed because, of all people, the children of an apologist should know the evidence.
Let's take a moment and look at the situation in which our children find themselves. This will help us to see why it's important to equip them with both evidences and answers to the difficult questions. University campuses are growing increasingly hostile toward evangelical students. A 2007 report by two Jewish researchers found a strong bias against evangelical students at secular universities.[1] More than 1,200 faculty members from 712 colleges and universities were interviewed pertaining to their feelings toward various religious followers. The results were alarming. Three percent of American faculty members admitted having negative or unfavorable feelings toward Jews while 33 percent admitted having them toward Muslims. But 53 percent admitted having negative or unfavorable feelings toward evangelical Christians. The researchers concluded, "Conservative Christians have for some time been concerned about their children's campus environment. These data certainly legitimize their concerns."
But it didn't stop there. To their shock, these Jewish researches likewise discovered that a significant number of American faculty members want Muslims to play a greater role in the American political process while wanting evangelicals to stay out of it. But why? After all, generally speaking, most Muslims are pro-life, against homosexual marriage and women's rights, at least as they are enjoyed by American women. To me, this suggests we are in much more than a cultural war between political conservatives and liberals. It goes beyond secularism and the religious. On many of our college campuses, it is a war against evangelical Christianity.
I personally have had numerous students from all over North America inform me that professors, on the first day of class, said their objective was to rid Christian students of their faith by the end of the semester. That's right. The professor openly stated in class that his or her objective was to rid Christian students of their faith within the next hundred days. Can you imagine what would happen if those same professors had instead asked how many of his or her students were Muslims ... or Jews? They would have been labeled "Islamaphobe" or "anti-Semite" and would soon have joined a number of others in the job market. But faculty members often get a pass if they're a "Christophobe."
Some good news is that a large number of Christian college students have a strong interest in apologetics, which is now a necessary component for nourishing students for a healthy faith and continuous growth in a vibrant walk with Christ. Some of these students will become church planters, missionaries, pastors, youth pastors and seminary professors. However, if we neglect familiarizing our college students with apologetics now, will we find far fewer members in SBC churches 20 years from now? From where will our next generation of church leaders come?
The North American Mission Board has created free apologetics resources. At
4truth.net, viewers have access to nearly 200 articles and can listen to more than a dozen interviews with leading scholars and scientists. Most of the articles are available in five languages. We recently posted a five-part video series with discussion questions for use by groups and individuals on the topic of the historical evidence for Jesus' resurrection. NAMB also has a certification program in apologetics.
Church planters, pastors, and BCM leaders can benefit from nearly a year's supply of free PowerPoint presentations on apologetics topics we have created for them. [Please contact your state director of evangelism or director of missions for information on how to obtain these.]
--30--
Michael Licona is the apologetics coordinator at the North American Mission Board.
A good article and a wake up call to the church of Jesus Christ.
Thursday, May 19, 2011
How to use a Study Bible.
How to Use a Study Bible
By Al Mohler
One of the most memorable purchases I made as a teenager was The Thompson Chain-Reference Bible in its original King James Version edition, complete with blue leather cover. I still have it, of course, though it now finds itself surrounded by a host of other Bibles on the shelf nearest to my desk. That study Bible opened the Word of God to me in a whole new way, helping me to make connections in the text and to see how subjects and themes run throughout the Bible.
That was my introduction to a study Bible. The chain-reference notes in that Bible took me throughout the Scriptures, reading text alongside text. I recognized this as a great improvement on Bibles that contained only a minimal index and a few maps in the back.
Today, there are several significant study Bibles, ranging from the most minimal, offering only cross-references, to others that offer the equivalent of several hundred pages of supplemental helps.
1. Read the text of the Bible first. Meditate upon the text and read it with care. Apply your own knowledge of the Bible in order to understand the particular text within its context and place in the biblical story-line. Consider and note other texts that come to your mind as directly related to this text. Read the text with full attention and conviction.
2. Look carefully at the cross-references that the study Bible links to the text you are reading. Do not look only to the citations, but read the actual passages. This assistance is still the main contribution of a study Bible — making related and parallel passages more accessible. A first principle of interpreting the Bible is to interpret the Bible by the Bible. In other words, to allow the Bible to interpret itself text by text.
3. As a third step, take full advantage of the notes, articles, and other helps printed alongside the text. In some cases, short articles will help in understanding contested issues or matters that might otherwise require a Bible dictionary or encyclopedia. Where appropriate, maps can be very useful, along with tables of measurement and similar points of reference. The very best of the study Bibles will also offer some level of commentary within the notes.
Of course, it is the Bible itself that is inspired, inerrant, and infallible — not the study materials included in study Bibles. Therefore, judge the notes by the biblical text, and never the other way around. Where possible, use more than one study Bible in order to maximize this learning process.
I am often asked for recommended Bible translations and study Bibles, so I offer this list in the hope that some will find it helpful. For the sake of simplicity I will recommend three excellent study Bibles representing the three translations I most eagerly commend.
The ESV Study Bible — This long-awaited study Bible redefines the category in terms of its sheer heft. Its 2750 pages (plus maps) represents a massive resource for personal Bible study. Based on the English Standard Version [ESV] of the Bible, this is a truly worthy contribution to the world of study Bibles. Under the direction of General Editor Wayne Grudem of Phoenix Seminary, the scholars who wrote and edited this study Bible have blended practical insights with keen theological reflection. The introductions to each book are well done, as is the pleasing and useful layout of the text and materials. This new study Bible will be warmly welcomed by those who pray to see more Christians grow in understanding the Bible. This is a study Bible for the serious Bible student and will serve any Bible reader well.
The MacArthur Study Bible — This well-known study Bible flows from the preaching and teaching ministry of Dr. John MacArthur, one of the most respected expositors of our era. I find this study Bible consistently helpful. Dr. MacArthur’s clarity and the simplicity of his explanations make this study Bible accessible to anyone, while the preacher or Bible teacher will find great usefulness as well. One key feature of this study Bible are his notes on the texts, especially the Old Testament, on which Dr. MacArthur has not yet written commentary in other forms. The MacArthur Study Bible, first released in the New King James Version [NKJV] of the Bible, is now (gladly) available in the New American Standard Bible [NASB] version.
The Apologetics Study Bible — This unique project is a study Bible that devotes particular attention to the apologetic issues that are confronted within the Biblical text. Under the general editorship of Dr. Ted Cabal of The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary, a team of scholars contributed, not only cross-references and the usual helps found in study Bibles, but also short articles on issues of current concern. The Apologetics Study Bible is based on the Holman Christian Standard Bible, another very trustworthy translation. I was honored to write one of the articles in this study Bible, and I commend it especially as a wonderful resource for students at the high school, college, and university levels. Those on the front lines of the apologetic confrontation will find great help here.
There are other worthy study Bibles, but these are the three I most heartily recommend. Any of these would make wonderful gifts at Christmas or any time of the year.
From http://www.albertmohler.com/2008/12/15/how-to-use-a-study-bible/
By Al Mohler
One of the most memorable purchases I made as a teenager was The Thompson Chain-Reference Bible in its original King James Version edition, complete with blue leather cover. I still have it, of course, though it now finds itself surrounded by a host of other Bibles on the shelf nearest to my desk. That study Bible opened the Word of God to me in a whole new way, helping me to make connections in the text and to see how subjects and themes run throughout the Bible.That was my introduction to a study Bible. The chain-reference notes in that Bible took me throughout the Scriptures, reading text alongside text. I recognized this as a great improvement on Bibles that contained only a minimal index and a few maps in the back.
Today, there are several significant study Bibles, ranging from the most minimal, offering only cross-references, to others that offer the equivalent of several hundred pages of supplemental helps.
1. Read the text of the Bible first. Meditate upon the text and read it with care. Apply your own knowledge of the Bible in order to understand the particular text within its context and place in the biblical story-line. Consider and note other texts that come to your mind as directly related to this text. Read the text with full attention and conviction.
2. Look carefully at the cross-references that the study Bible links to the text you are reading. Do not look only to the citations, but read the actual passages. This assistance is still the main contribution of a study Bible — making related and parallel passages more accessible. A first principle of interpreting the Bible is to interpret the Bible by the Bible. In other words, to allow the Bible to interpret itself text by text.
3. As a third step, take full advantage of the notes, articles, and other helps printed alongside the text. In some cases, short articles will help in understanding contested issues or matters that might otherwise require a Bible dictionary or encyclopedia. Where appropriate, maps can be very useful, along with tables of measurement and similar points of reference. The very best of the study Bibles will also offer some level of commentary within the notes.
Of course, it is the Bible itself that is inspired, inerrant, and infallible — not the study materials included in study Bibles. Therefore, judge the notes by the biblical text, and never the other way around. Where possible, use more than one study Bible in order to maximize this learning process.
I am often asked for recommended Bible translations and study Bibles, so I offer this list in the hope that some will find it helpful. For the sake of simplicity I will recommend three excellent study Bibles representing the three translations I most eagerly commend.
The ESV Study Bible — This long-awaited study Bible redefines the category in terms of its sheer heft. Its 2750 pages (plus maps) represents a massive resource for personal Bible study. Based on the English Standard Version [ESV] of the Bible, this is a truly worthy contribution to the world of study Bibles. Under the direction of General Editor Wayne Grudem of Phoenix Seminary, the scholars who wrote and edited this study Bible have blended practical insights with keen theological reflection. The introductions to each book are well done, as is the pleasing and useful layout of the text and materials. This new study Bible will be warmly welcomed by those who pray to see more Christians grow in understanding the Bible. This is a study Bible for the serious Bible student and will serve any Bible reader well.
The MacArthur Study Bible — This well-known study Bible flows from the preaching and teaching ministry of Dr. John MacArthur, one of the most respected expositors of our era. I find this study Bible consistently helpful. Dr. MacArthur’s clarity and the simplicity of his explanations make this study Bible accessible to anyone, while the preacher or Bible teacher will find great usefulness as well. One key feature of this study Bible are his notes on the texts, especially the Old Testament, on which Dr. MacArthur has not yet written commentary in other forms. The MacArthur Study Bible, first released in the New King James Version [NKJV] of the Bible, is now (gladly) available in the New American Standard Bible [NASB] version.
The Apologetics Study Bible — This unique project is a study Bible that devotes particular attention to the apologetic issues that are confronted within the Biblical text. Under the general editorship of Dr. Ted Cabal of The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary, a team of scholars contributed, not only cross-references and the usual helps found in study Bibles, but also short articles on issues of current concern. The Apologetics Study Bible is based on the Holman Christian Standard Bible, another very trustworthy translation. I was honored to write one of the articles in this study Bible, and I commend it especially as a wonderful resource for students at the high school, college, and university levels. Those on the front lines of the apologetic confrontation will find great help here.
There are other worthy study Bibles, but these are the three I most heartily recommend. Any of these would make wonderful gifts at Christmas or any time of the year.
From http://www.albertmohler.com/2008/12/15/how-to-use-a-study-bible/
Wednesday, May 18, 2011
Has the Islamic state come to America?
Well what do you know? It seems that the Islamic state is working its way across America. What to do? What to do?
Lord help us.
Lord help us.
Wednesday, April 27, 2011
Oneness and Trinity Debate!
Oneness adherent Steve McCalip debates Trinitarian Mark McNeil on whether the historic Christian concept of God is true or false. As the Athanasian Creed states, "We worship one God in Trinity, and Trinity in Unity; neither confounding the persons, nor dividing the substance. For there is one person of the Father, another of the Son, and another of the Holy Ghost. But the Godhead of the Father, of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost is all one; the glory equal, the majesty coeternal ... He therefore that will be saved must thus think of the Trinity." McCalip attacks the Trinity with practically every argument used by Jehovah's Witnesses, Muslims, Mormons & every other cultic sect known. Mark McNeil, however, is able to answer every argument Biblically proving why the doctrine of the Trinity has stood throughout time. Larry Wessels of Christian Answers (search BibleQuery.org) sponsored the debate.
Here is part one:
Here is part two:
This is an older debate but it is very good. Enjoy!
Here is part one:
Here is part two:
This is an older debate but it is very good. Enjoy!
Friday, April 22, 2011
I Suffer not a Women....
Here is a short video where John Piper lays down a simple principle for determining if a women can teach to a group of men or not.
What do you think.
What do you think.
Monday, April 11, 2011
A post from the Flatlands.
Here is a post from the website of Flatland Apologetics run by Shelby Cade. It is quite good and should be read by every one. Enjoy!
APOLOGETICS _ A DEEPER MEANING:
No one debates the definition of apologetics. Apologetics come from the Greek, apologia, meaning to give a reasoned defense for Christianity. The classic verse used in referring to apologetics is 1 Peter 3:15. The English translation given (in the 1 Peter verse) is usually "defense" or "reason", both of which are good translations for the Greek, apologia. If the major word that is referenced is the word defense, does this represent all we need to know concerning apologetics? I believe that apologetics is more comprehensive than most individuals are willing to admit.
In order to get a comprehensive view of apologetics, the classic text of Acts 17 needs to be examined. There are three realizations to apologetics that the Church needs to grasp. Each of these realities relates to a more robust and accurate view of what apologetics is all about. The three realizations to apologetics that are often left out are critical for the Church to understand today. These three include:
1. Being able to argue in the correct manner - Most who hear the word argue instantly think of raised voices and veins popping out of the neck. The proper way to argue in some ways has been lost. Many, even in the Church, believe that arguing or debating is to be shunned. Paul had a different view to arguing. To argue means to articulate a view in order to defend or promote the worldview that an individual holds. Paul states, "The weapons we fight with are not the weapons of the world. On the contrary, they have divine power to demolish strongholds (2 Corinthians 10:4)." In this passage, Paul promotes arguments for truth. In Acts 17, Paul was disturbed at all the idols of Athens and felt compelled to form an argument for truth (Acts 17:16-17). As Paul argued, he did so in a calm manner that related the truth to those he was engaged with. Again, referring back to 1 Peter 3:15, the way to argue is to be done in a spirit of "gentleness and respect." Being able to argue in the correct manner is critical for the Church to understand and it is unfortunate that some in the Church don't realize the harm that can be caused by not heading the advise of Peter.
2. Apologetics is for the entire Christian community - What is meant by apologetics for the entire Christian community? Unfortunately, today many in the Church view apologetics as relegated only to the scholarly. Many feel that the Pastor or other lay leaders are to be solely responsible for articulating apologetic arguments. This way of thinking is not what what God's word promotes. Referring back again to 1 Peter 3:15, Peter tells all Christians to be ready to give a defense. In some ways the Church is weak because it has not realized the importance of apologetics in today's culture. Sure, Paul was a scholar, but Peter makes it clear that the entire Church needs to be responsible for being able to articulate the Christian worldview. What this means is that the Church needs to take its Christian responsibilities seriously. The prophet Hosea stated that God's people are destroyed for lack of knowledge (Hosea 4:6). If the Church continues to push its responsibility on a select few, it too will slowly be weakened due to its lack of Godly knowledge and its inability to argue for the Christian worldview. All Christians are to be apologetic ambassadors (2 Corinthians 5:20) Apologetic responsibility is for all who wear the name of Christ.
3. Apologetics is for the promotion of Christianity - When Paul was disturbed at the number of idols in Athens, he began to relate to people the truth of idol worship. Paul then defended and promoted the resurrected Christ. Apologetics does not stop at defense, but it tries to convince others of the truth concerning Jesus. Apologetics, properly understood is evangelical. Apologetics is not just limited to defense, but it also includes going on the offense for the good news of Jesus (Acts 17:29-34).
Posted by Shelby Cade
APOLOGETICS _ A DEEPER MEANING:
No one debates the definition of apologetics. Apologetics come from the Greek, apologia, meaning to give a reasoned defense for Christianity. The classic verse used in referring to apologetics is 1 Peter 3:15. The English translation given (in the 1 Peter verse) is usually "defense" or "reason", both of which are good translations for the Greek, apologia. If the major word that is referenced is the word defense, does this represent all we need to know concerning apologetics? I believe that apologetics is more comprehensive than most individuals are willing to admit.
In order to get a comprehensive view of apologetics, the classic text of Acts 17 needs to be examined. There are three realizations to apologetics that the Church needs to grasp. Each of these realities relates to a more robust and accurate view of what apologetics is all about. The three realizations to apologetics that are often left out are critical for the Church to understand today. These three include:
1. Being able to argue in the correct manner - Most who hear the word argue instantly think of raised voices and veins popping out of the neck. The proper way to argue in some ways has been lost. Many, even in the Church, believe that arguing or debating is to be shunned. Paul had a different view to arguing. To argue means to articulate a view in order to defend or promote the worldview that an individual holds. Paul states, "The weapons we fight with are not the weapons of the world. On the contrary, they have divine power to demolish strongholds (2 Corinthians 10:4)." In this passage, Paul promotes arguments for truth. In Acts 17, Paul was disturbed at all the idols of Athens and felt compelled to form an argument for truth (Acts 17:16-17). As Paul argued, he did so in a calm manner that related the truth to those he was engaged with. Again, referring back to 1 Peter 3:15, the way to argue is to be done in a spirit of "gentleness and respect." Being able to argue in the correct manner is critical for the Church to understand and it is unfortunate that some in the Church don't realize the harm that can be caused by not heading the advise of Peter.
2. Apologetics is for the entire Christian community - What is meant by apologetics for the entire Christian community? Unfortunately, today many in the Church view apologetics as relegated only to the scholarly. Many feel that the Pastor or other lay leaders are to be solely responsible for articulating apologetic arguments. This way of thinking is not what what God's word promotes. Referring back again to 1 Peter 3:15, Peter tells all Christians to be ready to give a defense. In some ways the Church is weak because it has not realized the importance of apologetics in today's culture. Sure, Paul was a scholar, but Peter makes it clear that the entire Church needs to be responsible for being able to articulate the Christian worldview. What this means is that the Church needs to take its Christian responsibilities seriously. The prophet Hosea stated that God's people are destroyed for lack of knowledge (Hosea 4:6). If the Church continues to push its responsibility on a select few, it too will slowly be weakened due to its lack of Godly knowledge and its inability to argue for the Christian worldview. All Christians are to be apologetic ambassadors (2 Corinthians 5:20) Apologetic responsibility is for all who wear the name of Christ.
3. Apologetics is for the promotion of Christianity - When Paul was disturbed at the number of idols in Athens, he began to relate to people the truth of idol worship. Paul then defended and promoted the resurrected Christ. Apologetics does not stop at defense, but it tries to convince others of the truth concerning Jesus. Apologetics, properly understood is evangelical. Apologetics is not just limited to defense, but it also includes going on the offense for the good news of Jesus (Acts 17:29-34).
Posted by Shelby Cade
Sunday, April 3, 2011
A Few "Old Faithfuls."
I was on the Every Good Path website and found these:
And another:
And another:
And here:
And finally:
These are great resources and I am trying hard to teach my kids one called
And another:
And another:
And here:
And finally:
These are great resources and I am trying hard to teach my kids one called
Thursday, March 31, 2011
Here is a post from Ken Sample website: It is 100 attitudes that christian apologists should have.
100 Academic Commandments
by Kenneth Samples
When I became a Christian at age 20, I began to understand that my mind really matters. (Beforehand, I didn’t engage in my studies and did just enough in school to get by.) It was then that I realized the importance of cultivating a well-informed, logical mind as well as building a coherent and defensible Christian worldview.
Now as an adjunct professor at Biola University, I hope to encourage my students to come to that same realization. So, in honor of the 100th episode of my Straight Thinking podcast, I offer my list of 100 academic commandments to help show students (and their parents) how to take full advantage of their school years and beyond.
In the classroom
1. Develop a positive attitude toward learning and the educational process.
2. Attend every class—and be on time.
3. If you must be absent, makeup any work you missed.
4. Always try to sit toward the front of the classroom (close to the instructor).
5. Come to class prepared (with textbook, laptop, notebook paper, and pen or pencil, etc.).
6. Take clear and complete notes.
7. Pay careful attention to the lectures.
8. Don’t let other students’ behavior distract you.
9. Actively think through the lecture and anticipate its direction.
10. Ask questions (during and after class) if you do not understand.
11. Participate in each class period (offer input, ask questions, volunteer for assignments).
12. Complete all reading and homework assignments.
13. Turn homework assignments in on time.
14. Recognize that for many professors, an imperfect paper turned in on time is better than a perfect paper turned in late.
15. Keep all graded assignments until the end of the semester.
16. Extend courtesy and respect to the instructor.
17. Build relationships with your instructors.
18. Find out what the instructor’s expectations are and then follow them diligently.
19. Demonstrate to the instructor that you care about education and are interested and enthusiastic about the class subject matter.
20. Show up prepared to take each exam (both academically and with proper materials).
21. For essay exams, memorize a basic outline prior to the test and then flesh out the details during the exam.
22. If you struggle in a class, discuss it with the instructor and consider seeing a tutor.
23. Record lectures if this helps in your studying.
24. Avoid excessive specialization in your education by pursuing a broad liberal arts education.
Study skills
25. Master the content of the lecture notes during your study time.
26. Define key terms.
27. Create flash cards and master the course vocabulary.
28. Pay attention to important people, places, and dates.
29. Identify the key concepts.
30. Select a study partner and practice explaining key concepts to each other.
31. Form a study group.
32. Review your notes before the beginning of each class.
33. Reflect and philosophize on the subject matter.
34. Start your term papers early—never give in to procrastination.
35. Recognize that doing two hours of homework a night works wonders.
36. Be prepared to write clear and descriptive essays.
37. Make sure your essay flows logically, contains descriptive details, and exhibits good grammar and accurate spelling.
38. Organize your assignments by keeping a weekly and/or semester planner.
39. Find out what kind of exam the instructor will give and study accordingly.
40. Prepare for exams daily and weekly, don’t wait until the last minute and cram.
41. Prepare daily if the class involves pop quizzes.
42. Ask a librarian to teach you library and research skills.
43. Discover which study skill books have endured the test of time and master them.
44. Stay computer and technology savvy.
45. Utilize the internet in your research.
46. Take advantage of the excellent educational software on the market.
47. Utilize downtime (such as driving) by listening to educational CDs or podcasts.
Beyond the requirements
48. Pursue information, knowledge, and wisdom as a daily priority in life.
49. Make learning a lifetime goal, not just a temporary activity while you are in school.
50. Commit yourself to reaching your full academic potential.
51. Take responsibility for your education (don’t blame others).
52. Set academic goals, both short and long term.
53. Take courses that will challenge you.
54. Study under the most competent instructors.
55. Improvise, adapt, and overcome any problem.
56. Read more broadly than required.
57. Incorporate the great books of the Western world into your education.
58. Make reading a daily priority throughout your life.
59. Seek to develop cultural literacy.
60. Build an appreciation for the arts in your education.
61. Utilize a Socratic approach to learning.
62. Develop the physical, intellectual, and spiritual aspects of your life.
63. Pursue and take pride in academic honors and awards.
64. Seek after academic grants and scholarships.
65. Strive to strengthen the foundational elements of the educational process (reading, logic, speech, and writing).
66. Strengthen the deficient areas of your education.
67. Acknowledge that no one can master all fields of study; therefore find your strengths and focus on those areas.
68. Be prudent in planning for a career.
69. Consider how your education will impact your career or occupation.
70. Interview people who are working in the careers you are interested in studying.
71. Reflect upon how your education will impact your civic responsibilities as a citizen.
72. Do not evaluate your academic performance purely in terms of letter grades.
73. Strive to learn everything you can as a student, and let the letter grades take care of themselves.
Student life
74. Avoid students who are apathetic about school or the educational process.
75. Build relationships with students who share your moral and intellectual virtues.
76. Avoid spending excessive time on entertainment and amusement.
Christian application
77. Offer your mind as a living sacrifice to the glory of God.
78. Incorporate the study of the Bible into your ongoing education.
79. Integrate your education with your Christian faith and worldview.
80. Think in terms of worldview.
81. Seek after both moral and intellectual virtues.
82. Ask the Holy Spirit to illuminate your mind and give you wisdom and understanding.
83. Recognize that the fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom.
84. Recognize that in Jesus Christ is hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge.
85. Acknowledge that being uninformed and ignorant is not a Christian virtue.
86. Accept the importance of education according to the Christian world-and-life-view.
87. Make it your life’s goal to become a wise and noble soul.
88. Accept the fact that being the only intellectual animal on the planet has moral implications.
89. Acknowledge that abstract ideas have concrete consequences.
90. Recognize that education can function as an important equalizer in life.
91. Accept that all truth is ultimately God’s truth.
92. Don’t fear science.
93. Never engage in cheating, plagiarizing, or any other academic dishonesty.
94. Never use a bad argument to support Christian truth.
Parental guidelines95. Be directly involved with your children’s education.
96. Create an intellectual environment for yourself and your children.
97. Plan educational vacations and field trips for your family.
98. Be an intellectual role model for your children and introduce them to others who can serve likewise.
99. Expose your children to sound Christian apologetics.
100. Teach your children to never, never, never give up.
The original can be found here: http://reflectionsbyken.wordpress.com/2011/01/19/100-academic-commandments/
Think often. Think deeply.
100 Academic Commandments
by Kenneth Samples
When I became a Christian at age 20, I began to understand that my mind really matters. (Beforehand, I didn’t engage in my studies and did just enough in school to get by.) It was then that I realized the importance of cultivating a well-informed, logical mind as well as building a coherent and defensible Christian worldview.
Now as an adjunct professor at Biola University, I hope to encourage my students to come to that same realization. So, in honor of the 100th episode of my Straight Thinking podcast, I offer my list of 100 academic commandments to help show students (and their parents) how to take full advantage of their school years and beyond.
In the classroom
1. Develop a positive attitude toward learning and the educational process.
2. Attend every class—and be on time.
3. If you must be absent, makeup any work you missed.
4. Always try to sit toward the front of the classroom (close to the instructor).
5. Come to class prepared (with textbook, laptop, notebook paper, and pen or pencil, etc.).
6. Take clear and complete notes.
7. Pay careful attention to the lectures.
8. Don’t let other students’ behavior distract you.
9. Actively think through the lecture and anticipate its direction.
10. Ask questions (during and after class) if you do not understand.
11. Participate in each class period (offer input, ask questions, volunteer for assignments).
12. Complete all reading and homework assignments.
13. Turn homework assignments in on time.
14. Recognize that for many professors, an imperfect paper turned in on time is better than a perfect paper turned in late.
15. Keep all graded assignments until the end of the semester.
16. Extend courtesy and respect to the instructor.
17. Build relationships with your instructors.
18. Find out what the instructor’s expectations are and then follow them diligently.
19. Demonstrate to the instructor that you care about education and are interested and enthusiastic about the class subject matter.
20. Show up prepared to take each exam (both academically and with proper materials).
21. For essay exams, memorize a basic outline prior to the test and then flesh out the details during the exam.
22. If you struggle in a class, discuss it with the instructor and consider seeing a tutor.
23. Record lectures if this helps in your studying.
24. Avoid excessive specialization in your education by pursuing a broad liberal arts education.
Study skills
25. Master the content of the lecture notes during your study time.
26. Define key terms.
27. Create flash cards and master the course vocabulary.
28. Pay attention to important people, places, and dates.
29. Identify the key concepts.
30. Select a study partner and practice explaining key concepts to each other.
31. Form a study group.
32. Review your notes before the beginning of each class.
33. Reflect and philosophize on the subject matter.
34. Start your term papers early—never give in to procrastination.
35. Recognize that doing two hours of homework a night works wonders.
36. Be prepared to write clear and descriptive essays.
37. Make sure your essay flows logically, contains descriptive details, and exhibits good grammar and accurate spelling.
38. Organize your assignments by keeping a weekly and/or semester planner.
39. Find out what kind of exam the instructor will give and study accordingly.
40. Prepare for exams daily and weekly, don’t wait until the last minute and cram.
41. Prepare daily if the class involves pop quizzes.
42. Ask a librarian to teach you library and research skills.
43. Discover which study skill books have endured the test of time and master them.
44. Stay computer and technology savvy.
45. Utilize the internet in your research.
46. Take advantage of the excellent educational software on the market.
47. Utilize downtime (such as driving) by listening to educational CDs or podcasts.
Beyond the requirements
48. Pursue information, knowledge, and wisdom as a daily priority in life.
49. Make learning a lifetime goal, not just a temporary activity while you are in school.
50. Commit yourself to reaching your full academic potential.
51. Take responsibility for your education (don’t blame others).
52. Set academic goals, both short and long term.
53. Take courses that will challenge you.
54. Study under the most competent instructors.
55. Improvise, adapt, and overcome any problem.
56. Read more broadly than required.
57. Incorporate the great books of the Western world into your education.
58. Make reading a daily priority throughout your life.
59. Seek to develop cultural literacy.
60. Build an appreciation for the arts in your education.
61. Utilize a Socratic approach to learning.
62. Develop the physical, intellectual, and spiritual aspects of your life.
63. Pursue and take pride in academic honors and awards.
64. Seek after academic grants and scholarships.
65. Strive to strengthen the foundational elements of the educational process (reading, logic, speech, and writing).
66. Strengthen the deficient areas of your education.
67. Acknowledge that no one can master all fields of study; therefore find your strengths and focus on those areas.
68. Be prudent in planning for a career.
69. Consider how your education will impact your career or occupation.
70. Interview people who are working in the careers you are interested in studying.
71. Reflect upon how your education will impact your civic responsibilities as a citizen.
72. Do not evaluate your academic performance purely in terms of letter grades.
73. Strive to learn everything you can as a student, and let the letter grades take care of themselves.
Student life
74. Avoid students who are apathetic about school or the educational process.
75. Build relationships with students who share your moral and intellectual virtues.
76. Avoid spending excessive time on entertainment and amusement.
Christian application
77. Offer your mind as a living sacrifice to the glory of God.
78. Incorporate the study of the Bible into your ongoing education.
79. Integrate your education with your Christian faith and worldview.
80. Think in terms of worldview.
81. Seek after both moral and intellectual virtues.
82. Ask the Holy Spirit to illuminate your mind and give you wisdom and understanding.
83. Recognize that the fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom.
84. Recognize that in Jesus Christ is hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge.
85. Acknowledge that being uninformed and ignorant is not a Christian virtue.
86. Accept the importance of education according to the Christian world-and-life-view.
87. Make it your life’s goal to become a wise and noble soul.
88. Accept the fact that being the only intellectual animal on the planet has moral implications.
89. Acknowledge that abstract ideas have concrete consequences.
90. Recognize that education can function as an important equalizer in life.
91. Accept that all truth is ultimately God’s truth.
92. Don’t fear science.
93. Never engage in cheating, plagiarizing, or any other academic dishonesty.
94. Never use a bad argument to support Christian truth.
Parental guidelines95. Be directly involved with your children’s education.
96. Create an intellectual environment for yourself and your children.
97. Plan educational vacations and field trips for your family.
98. Be an intellectual role model for your children and introduce them to others who can serve likewise.
99. Expose your children to sound Christian apologetics.
100. Teach your children to never, never, never give up.
The original can be found here: http://reflectionsbyken.wordpress.com/2011/01/19/100-academic-commandments/
Think often. Think deeply.
When They Awake In HELL!
A video to tell of the practice of modern evangelism and it affects on sinners. Enjoy!
Powerful!
Powerful!
Sunday, March 27, 2011
A Great Video on Creeds, Confessions, and Catechisms.
Here is a great video on Creeds, Confessions, and Catechisms. I was convicted by it and encouraged. Please watch it and take note.
Good stuff!
Good stuff!
Apologetics: 6 Pre-Answer Attitudes to Adopt
This was a post I found on another Apologetic Website. Enjoy!
Apologetics: 6 Pre-Answer Attitudes to Adopt
by Alwyn Lau
In a typical 'Christian apologetics' session at a local church group, the typical mix of questions (based on my experiences) would roughly consist of the following:
•60% Apologetics/Philosophy/History (e.g. "If God was good, why [fill in your favourate global problem]?", "How can we be sure that Jesus was raised from the dead?"),
•30% Christian Education (e.g. "What is the rationale for infant baptism?")
•10% Misc/Uncommon/Weird Questions (e.g."Why is God referred to in the Bible as HE and not SHE?").
Whislt it was tempting to focus on the answers to most of the above, I'm glad I didn't (and besides it was only an hour-long gathering). Instead I tried to target the pre-answer attitudes, especially when doing apologetics (i.e. 'defending' the faith intellectually). Here are some:
1. It's okay to remain silent or say, "I don't know" - especially if you don't know the answer (duh) or the malice/hostility index is too high, or you're too emotional or angry, and you just know it's no longer a debate but a debacle. We don't see Jesus arguing very much during his passion, right?
I still remember Glenn Miller saying that we can raise more questions in 5 minutes than we can answer in 50 years. Read: There is simply NO NEED to feel helpless when barraged with questions you can't respond to. Because if satisfactorily answering EVERYTHING asked was a criteria for legitimate belief, no one could believe anything!
2. It's more important to communicate lovingly than logically - basically an extension of no.1, and this wouldn't be worth saying if not for the fact that there are many apologists and theologians who are EXTREMELY logical but whose logic seem to correlate very well with their arrogance and unkindness.
Apologetics is about ministering to people. It's a good chance to prove not only that Christians have good reasons for their faith, but also to demonstrate that we care MORE about merely giving answers (and sometimes we make the 'point' that scoring argumentative points can be a bad way to live).
We're not mini-professors each one of us; we are mini-replicators of Calvary. And Calvary was one BIG BLOODY answer beyond answers and reason and even words.
3. Think about (or find out) the real question/charge being thrown, not just the presenting one - "Why do Christians have so many denominations?" may be a simple historical inquiry OR a thinly veiled insinuation (i.e. "Why are you Jesus freaks so messed up and always breaking away from each other?"). When we focus on the real issues, as always, time and energy is better spent.
4. Ask what you can learn from the question - it keeps your eyes fixed, if not on ministry to the questioner, then on self-development. Much better than aiming for just another intellectual triumph which usually comes along with the idea that, "Ah, this is just another ignorant anti-Christian attack by a dude who has an attitude problem and who's either stupid, incoherent, heretic or all three!"
5. Read 1st Peter 3:15 and 16 - take to heart the 'gentleness and respect' (15b) parts, the Christlike behaviour part (16a) and the slander-reversal parts (16b). Don't get carried by the 'always be ready to give an answer' thinggy, as if you just GOTTA respond like a pro if you're challenged (grin).
(Finally a more 'technical' one...)
6. With simply outrageous, near-illogical questions, refrain from answering and work on the questioner's logic - e.g. for something like, "If we're made for God's glory, does this mean we are puppets for His amusement?", it's best to ask - gently and respectfully - for the thought patterns and the process leading up to the conclusion. Like, "I'm really curious as to how you went from one point to the other...I'm really interested to understand why you would equate A and B, etc."
From the blog found at http://alwynlau.blogspot.com/2009/11/60-apologetics-e.html
Apologetics: 6 Pre-Answer Attitudes to Adopt
by Alwyn Lau
In a typical 'Christian apologetics' session at a local church group, the typical mix of questions (based on my experiences) would roughly consist of the following:
•60% Apologetics/Philosophy/History (e.g. "If God was good, why [fill in your favourate global problem]?", "How can we be sure that Jesus was raised from the dead?"),
•30% Christian Education (e.g. "What is the rationale for infant baptism?")
•10% Misc/Uncommon/Weird Questions (e.g."Why is God referred to in the Bible as HE and not SHE?").
Whislt it was tempting to focus on the answers to most of the above, I'm glad I didn't (and besides it was only an hour-long gathering). Instead I tried to target the pre-answer attitudes, especially when doing apologetics (i.e. 'defending' the faith intellectually). Here are some:
1. It's okay to remain silent or say, "I don't know" - especially if you don't know the answer (duh) or the malice/hostility index is too high, or you're too emotional or angry, and you just know it's no longer a debate but a debacle. We don't see Jesus arguing very much during his passion, right?
I still remember Glenn Miller saying that we can raise more questions in 5 minutes than we can answer in 50 years. Read: There is simply NO NEED to feel helpless when barraged with questions you can't respond to. Because if satisfactorily answering EVERYTHING asked was a criteria for legitimate belief, no one could believe anything!
2. It's more important to communicate lovingly than logically - basically an extension of no.1, and this wouldn't be worth saying if not for the fact that there are many apologists and theologians who are EXTREMELY logical but whose logic seem to correlate very well with their arrogance and unkindness.
Apologetics is about ministering to people. It's a good chance to prove not only that Christians have good reasons for their faith, but also to demonstrate that we care MORE about merely giving answers (and sometimes we make the 'point' that scoring argumentative points can be a bad way to live).
We're not mini-professors each one of us; we are mini-replicators of Calvary. And Calvary was one BIG BLOODY answer beyond answers and reason and even words.
3. Think about (or find out) the real question/charge being thrown, not just the presenting one - "Why do Christians have so many denominations?" may be a simple historical inquiry OR a thinly veiled insinuation (i.e. "Why are you Jesus freaks so messed up and always breaking away from each other?"). When we focus on the real issues, as always, time and energy is better spent.
4. Ask what you can learn from the question - it keeps your eyes fixed, if not on ministry to the questioner, then on self-development. Much better than aiming for just another intellectual triumph which usually comes along with the idea that, "Ah, this is just another ignorant anti-Christian attack by a dude who has an attitude problem and who's either stupid, incoherent, heretic or all three!"
5. Read 1st Peter 3:15 and 16 - take to heart the 'gentleness and respect' (15b) parts, the Christlike behaviour part (16a) and the slander-reversal parts (16b). Don't get carried by the 'always be ready to give an answer' thinggy, as if you just GOTTA respond like a pro if you're challenged (grin).
(Finally a more 'technical' one...)
6. With simply outrageous, near-illogical questions, refrain from answering and work on the questioner's logic - e.g. for something like, "If we're made for God's glory, does this mean we are puppets for His amusement?", it's best to ask - gently and respectfully - for the thought patterns and the process leading up to the conclusion. Like, "I'm really curious as to how you went from one point to the other...I'm really interested to understand why you would equate A and B, etc."
From the blog found at http://alwynlau.blogspot.com/2009/11/60-apologetics-e.html
Friday, March 18, 2011
Ever wonder about those "mythical" Animals in the Bible?
You know this is not an area where I have done much study but found this video very helpful. Christians keep doing good work and people will be blessed by it.
Pretty good huh? Spread it around.
Pretty good huh? Spread it around.
Thursday, March 17, 2011
Apologists are you in a church?
Here is a word from James White on the problem with apologetics in America today.
Enjoy!
Enjoy!
Wednesday, March 2, 2011
More Problems at New Birth. My Lord!
Bishop Eddie Long Congregation Is Shrinking Due To Scandals
By Ron Collins
On March 2, 2011 Fox 5 in Atlanta reported Bishop Eddie Long is laying off staff and cutting salaries of essential staff members. Bishop Eddie Long released a statement saying the cuts are due to the down turn in the economy, but sources within the congregations say attendance has bottomed due to all the scandals that have plagued New Birth Missionary Church.
According to a spokesperson from the Preacher Bureau of Investigation (PBI) who attended New Birth’s most recent service, the once filled to capacity balcony section of the church was pretty much empty!
“There is no doubt that all of the scandals have taken a toll on this once thriving congregation, there are now empty seats throughout the sanctuary. This lesson should go out to all Pastors who feel that they can exploit their members and get away with it because God knows their heart. The members of these congregations are no longer tolerating a lack of integrity in the pulpit.”
According to Dale Russell of Fox 5 in Atlanta - Bishop Eddie Long’s $1 million love offering has gone into the general operational budget for 2011.
“When Bishop Eddie Long spoke at his New Birth Missionary Baptist Church in the past, his 10,000-member congregation was often packed to the rafters and financial contributions flowed freely. But church sources say attendance is down, now forcing the church to make dramatic cutbacks.
The I-Team was first to tell you how Jamal Parris and three other young men filed a sexual misconduct suit against Bishop Long and his New Birth Missionary Baptist church. In all four of the law suits, Bishop Long denied any sexual activity.”
The announcement that Bishop Eddie Long and New Birth is making major cuts in staff comes on the heels of a donations letter sent to the members of Crenshaw Christian Center by Frederick K. C. Price also stating that their ministry donations are down $4 million from last year’s financials.
The PBI says Pastors will try to blame the drop in donations on the economy rather than face the fact that the members are no longer willing to finance their extravagant lifestyles and purchases.
For more coverage of this story and others concerning Prosperity Preachers please visit www.PimpPreacher.com
By Ron Collins
By Ron Collins
On March 2, 2011 Fox 5 in Atlanta reported Bishop Eddie Long is laying off staff and cutting salaries of essential staff members. Bishop Eddie Long released a statement saying the cuts are due to the down turn in the economy, but sources within the congregations say attendance has bottomed due to all the scandals that have plagued New Birth Missionary Church.
According to a spokesperson from the Preacher Bureau of Investigation (PBI) who attended New Birth’s most recent service, the once filled to capacity balcony section of the church was pretty much empty!
“There is no doubt that all of the scandals have taken a toll on this once thriving congregation, there are now empty seats throughout the sanctuary. This lesson should go out to all Pastors who feel that they can exploit their members and get away with it because God knows their heart. The members of these congregations are no longer tolerating a lack of integrity in the pulpit.”
According to Dale Russell of Fox 5 in Atlanta - Bishop Eddie Long’s $1 million love offering has gone into the general operational budget for 2011.
“When Bishop Eddie Long spoke at his New Birth Missionary Baptist Church in the past, his 10,000-member congregation was often packed to the rafters and financial contributions flowed freely. But church sources say attendance is down, now forcing the church to make dramatic cutbacks.
The I-Team was first to tell you how Jamal Parris and three other young men filed a sexual misconduct suit against Bishop Long and his New Birth Missionary Baptist church. In all four of the law suits, Bishop Long denied any sexual activity.”
The announcement that Bishop Eddie Long and New Birth is making major cuts in staff comes on the heels of a donations letter sent to the members of Crenshaw Christian Center by Frederick K. C. Price also stating that their ministry donations are down $4 million from last year’s financials.
The PBI says Pastors will try to blame the drop in donations on the economy rather than face the fact that the members are no longer willing to finance their extravagant lifestyles and purchases.
For more coverage of this story and others concerning Prosperity Preachers please visit www.PimpPreacher.com
By Ron Collins
Tuesday, March 1, 2011
BE a christian...
There are some stories that touch your heart at a very deep level. When I see people ACTING like Jesus in what they are doing it makes me cry. It should not be done so all can see but it is being done in small ways every day.
Lord I want to be a Christian in my heart...
Lord I want to be a Christian in my heart...
Friday, February 4, 2011
Enter to WIN a DVD copy of The Way of the Master Mission Europe: AMSTERDAM
Enter to WIN a DVD copy of The Way of the Master Mission Europe: AMSTERDAM
Remember when we went to Europe to film 13 countries in 13 days for 13 episodes for The Way of the Master television program? Well, the moment we hit ground in London we were running lightening speed ahead. It was an adventure of a lifetime. This is the Amsterdam episode - the 4th country that we visited in our trip of 13 countries. Wait till you see what happens when Ray enters a rougher part of town known for the place to go to obtain drugs, legally. Amsterdam is also known as the gay and lesbian capital of Europe, and then there's the "Red Light District," with its legalized prostitution. In this episode you'll also see one of the greatest setbacks that we encountered that could have potentially ruined the whole tour. You'll learn the root cause of Europe's fall into atheistic humanism (my personal favorite part of the episode); and meet some interesting characters, in this fast-moving episode. Click HERE for a sneak preview of the episode.
Here's what to do to win:
There will be 1 winner!
There are 2 Ways to enter your name in the drawing...
1. For 2 entries, post this give away on your website, blog, or social networking site like Twitter and Facebook.
2. For 1 entry, simply enter your name below (in the comment section) and a way for me to contact you if you win.
Contest ends Sunday, Feb. 13, 2011. Open to US residents only.
This is from the Fish With Trish Blog. Found at http://www.fishwithtrish.com/index.php
Remember when we went to Europe to film 13 countries in 13 days for 13 episodes for The Way of the Master television program? Well, the moment we hit ground in London we were running lightening speed ahead. It was an adventure of a lifetime. This is the Amsterdam episode - the 4th country that we visited in our trip of 13 countries. Wait till you see what happens when Ray enters a rougher part of town known for the place to go to obtain drugs, legally. Amsterdam is also known as the gay and lesbian capital of Europe, and then there's the "Red Light District," with its legalized prostitution. In this episode you'll also see one of the greatest setbacks that we encountered that could have potentially ruined the whole tour. You'll learn the root cause of Europe's fall into atheistic humanism (my personal favorite part of the episode); and meet some interesting characters, in this fast-moving episode. Click HERE for a sneak preview of the episode.
Here's what to do to win:
There will be 1 winner!
There are 2 Ways to enter your name in the drawing...
1. For 2 entries, post this give away on your website, blog, or social networking site like Twitter and Facebook.
2. For 1 entry, simply enter your name below (in the comment section) and a way for me to contact you if you win.
Contest ends Sunday, Feb. 13, 2011. Open to US residents only.
This is from the Fish With Trish Blog. Found at http://www.fishwithtrish.com/index.php
Tuesday, February 1, 2011
Oh the Weather Outside Is...
Well, well, well,
Looking outside all I can say is...
THANK GOD FOR THE WEATHER!
I just did not feel like going to class today! At all no way!
But I do need to use the day for study and catching up.
Blessing!
Looking outside all I can say is...
THANK GOD FOR THE WEATHER!
I just did not feel like going to class today! At all no way!
But I do need to use the day for study and catching up.
Blessing!
Saturday, January 22, 2011
How Are We Doing, Folk?
This is just a quote for on the state of the Black people that are in this country. Read it and weep tears of sorrow as I did.
"[F]orty years after the Civil Rights Act, African-American students on the average are the weakest in the United States, at all ages, in all subjects, and regardless of class level."
"Losing the Race: Self-Sabotage in Black America," by John H. McWhorter
We have got to do better. It starts with YOU and YOUR children. Teach them today!
"[F]orty years after the Civil Rights Act, African-American students on the average are the weakest in the United States, at all ages, in all subjects, and regardless of class level."
"Losing the Race: Self-Sabotage in Black America," by John H. McWhorter
We have got to do better. It starts with YOU and YOUR children. Teach them today!
Saturday, January 15, 2011
A Word on FRIENDSHIP!
I recently heard back from a high school class mate of mine that I have not talked to in 24 years! And it made this story all the more important to me. Read and enjoy.
"One day, when I was a freshman in high school, I saw a kid from my class was walking home from school. His name was Kyle. It looked like he was carrying all of his books. I thought to myself, 'Why would anyone bring home all his books on a Friday? He must really be a nerd.' I had quite a weekend planned (parties and a football game with my friends tomorrow afternoon), so I shrugged my shoulders and went on. As I was walking, I saw a bunch of kids running toward him. They ran at him, knocking all his books out of his arms and tripping him so he landed in the dirt. His glasses went flying, and I saw them land in the grass about ten feet from him... He looked up and I saw this terrible sadness in his eyes. My heart went out to him. So, I jogged over to him as he crawled around looking for his glasses, and I saw a tear in his eye. As I handed him his glasses, I said, 'Those guys are jerks.' They really should get lives. ' He looked at me and said, 'Hey thanks!' There was a big smile on his face. It was one of those smiles that showed real gratitude. I helped him pick up his books, and asked him where he lived. As it turned out, he lived near me, so I asked him why I had never seen him before… He said he had gone to private school before now. I would have never hung out with a private school kid before. We talked all the way home, and I carried some of his books. He turned out to be a pretty cool kid. I asked him if he wanted to play a little football with my friends. He said yes. We hung out all weekend and the more I got to know Kyle, the more I liked him, and my friends thought the same of him. Monday morning came, and there was Kyle with the huge stack of books again. I stopped him and said, 'Boy, you are gonna really build some serious muscles with this pile of books everyday! ' He just laughed and handed me half the books. Over the next four years, Kyle and I became best friends.
When we were seniors we began to think about college. Kyle decided on Georgetown and I was going to Duke. I knew that we would always be friends, that the miles would never be a problem. He was going to be a doctor and I was going for business on a football scholarship. Kyle was valedictorian of our class. I teased him all the time about being a nerd. He had to prepare a speech for graduation. I was so glad it wasn't me having to get up there and speak. Graduation day, I saw Kyle. He looked great. He was one of those guys that really found himself during high school. He filled out and actually looked good in glasses. He had more dates than I had and all the girls loved him. Boy, sometimes I was jealous! Today was one of those days. I could see that he was nervous about his speech. So, I smacked him on the back and said, 'Hey, big guy, you'll be great!' He looked at me with one of those looks (the really grateful one) and smiled.... ' Thanks,' he said. As he started his speech, he cleared his throat, and began…
'Graduation is a time to thank those who helped you make it through those tough years. Your parents, your teachers, your siblings, maybe a coach...but mostly your friends.... I am here to tell all of you that being a friend to someone is the best gift you can give them. I am going to tell you a story.' I just looked at my friend with disbelief as he told the first day we met. He had planned to kill himself over the weekend. He talked of how he had cleaned out his locker so his Mom wouldn't have to do it later and was carrying his stuff home. He looked hard at me and gave me a little smile. Thankfully, I was saved. My friend saved me from doing the unspeakable..' I heard the gasp go through the crowd as this handsome, popular boy told us all about his weakest moment. I saw his Mom and dad looking at me and smiling that same grateful smile. Not until that moment did I realize it's depth. Never underestimate the power of your actions. With one small gesture you can change a person's life, for better or for worse. God puts us all in each others lives to impact one another in some way.
Look for God in others."
I was never going to kill myself but it is good to hear from friends and with all the ways to get in touch with people today... do it. It might be what some one needs.
"One day, when I was a freshman in high school, I saw a kid from my class was walking home from school. His name was Kyle. It looked like he was carrying all of his books. I thought to myself, 'Why would anyone bring home all his books on a Friday? He must really be a nerd.' I had quite a weekend planned (parties and a football game with my friends tomorrow afternoon), so I shrugged my shoulders and went on. As I was walking, I saw a bunch of kids running toward him. They ran at him, knocking all his books out of his arms and tripping him so he landed in the dirt. His glasses went flying, and I saw them land in the grass about ten feet from him... He looked up and I saw this terrible sadness in his eyes. My heart went out to him. So, I jogged over to him as he crawled around looking for his glasses, and I saw a tear in his eye. As I handed him his glasses, I said, 'Those guys are jerks.' They really should get lives. ' He looked at me and said, 'Hey thanks!' There was a big smile on his face. It was one of those smiles that showed real gratitude. I helped him pick up his books, and asked him where he lived. As it turned out, he lived near me, so I asked him why I had never seen him before… He said he had gone to private school before now. I would have never hung out with a private school kid before. We talked all the way home, and I carried some of his books. He turned out to be a pretty cool kid. I asked him if he wanted to play a little football with my friends. He said yes. We hung out all weekend and the more I got to know Kyle, the more I liked him, and my friends thought the same of him. Monday morning came, and there was Kyle with the huge stack of books again. I stopped him and said, 'Boy, you are gonna really build some serious muscles with this pile of books everyday! ' He just laughed and handed me half the books. Over the next four years, Kyle and I became best friends.
When we were seniors we began to think about college. Kyle decided on Georgetown and I was going to Duke. I knew that we would always be friends, that the miles would never be a problem. He was going to be a doctor and I was going for business on a football scholarship. Kyle was valedictorian of our class. I teased him all the time about being a nerd. He had to prepare a speech for graduation. I was so glad it wasn't me having to get up there and speak. Graduation day, I saw Kyle. He looked great. He was one of those guys that really found himself during high school. He filled out and actually looked good in glasses. He had more dates than I had and all the girls loved him. Boy, sometimes I was jealous! Today was one of those days. I could see that he was nervous about his speech. So, I smacked him on the back and said, 'Hey, big guy, you'll be great!' He looked at me with one of those looks (the really grateful one) and smiled.... ' Thanks,' he said. As he started his speech, he cleared his throat, and began…
'Graduation is a time to thank those who helped you make it through those tough years. Your parents, your teachers, your siblings, maybe a coach...but mostly your friends.... I am here to tell all of you that being a friend to someone is the best gift you can give them. I am going to tell you a story.' I just looked at my friend with disbelief as he told the first day we met. He had planned to kill himself over the weekend. He talked of how he had cleaned out his locker so his Mom wouldn't have to do it later and was carrying his stuff home. He looked hard at me and gave me a little smile. Thankfully, I was saved. My friend saved me from doing the unspeakable..' I heard the gasp go through the crowd as this handsome, popular boy told us all about his weakest moment. I saw his Mom and dad looking at me and smiling that same grateful smile. Not until that moment did I realize it's depth. Never underestimate the power of your actions. With one small gesture you can change a person's life, for better or for worse. God puts us all in each others lives to impact one another in some way.
Look for God in others."
I was never going to kill myself but it is good to hear from friends and with all the ways to get in touch with people today... do it. It might be what some one needs.
Sunday, January 2, 2011
Seminary Scholarship!
Just applied for the Logos Bible Software Seminary Scholarship. Best of luck to me. Here is a blurb they wanted me to post.
Going to Seminary is expensive. On top of that, finding a scholarship can be really difficult. That's why I was so excited to find this Seminary Scholarship website today. Not only are they giving away a $1,000.00 scholarship and a digital theological library, all I had to do to apply was watch a short video and answer a few questions! It took less than 15 minutes. What is best of all is that if you're in seminary and apply for the Seminary Scholarship, and put my name as the person who referred you, if you win the scholarship, so do I! We could both get a $1,000.00 scholarship and digital theological library. So, do us both a favor and go apply for the Seminary Scholarship today.
Lord knows I need the money and the software!
Going to Seminary is expensive. On top of that, finding a scholarship can be really difficult. That's why I was so excited to find this Seminary Scholarship website today. Not only are they giving away a $1,000.00 scholarship and a digital theological library, all I had to do to apply was watch a short video and answer a few questions! It took less than 15 minutes. What is best of all is that if you're in seminary and apply for the Seminary Scholarship, and put my name as the person who referred you, if you win the scholarship, so do I! We could both get a $1,000.00 scholarship and digital theological library. So, do us both a favor and go apply for the Seminary Scholarship today.
Lord knows I need the money and the software!
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