Carboard Christianity

Saw this a Mayfair this past week. Thought it was pretty powerful. Take a look and tell me what you think.

Death Penalty

Do you believe in the death penalty? I am not fully sure. There are compelling cases on both sides.
The "pro" side would argue that their must be punishment that would deter criminals from committing such heinous crimes. This side would point to the Old Testiment in the bible with God ordering the deaths of several for breaking the law.
The "con" side would argue that Jesus asks us to turn the other cheek. We should not be violent to others, no matter the crime.



While I think I tend to lean to the pro side, I do have a hard time thinking of someone being hung, electricuted, or leathaly injected. I have seen the movie the Green Mile, and that is as close as I have ever come to seeing someone executed. I understand and support the rational thought behind the death penalty, but have a hard time thinking too long on the topic.

What do you think?

Conservative or Liberal

I'm back. Took awhile with the traveling.

Are you a conservative or liberal? Do you think you fall somewhere in the middle? So do I, and about 99% of others reading this blog. After much thought on this subject I decided to blog on the issue. I am using the terms somewhat loosely (conservative/liberal). I mean them in the political and religious sense.

If most of you are like me you tend to view people that are more conservative than you as “not open-minded”. These people are just not educated enough to see things the way you do. These people are just not able to see what is true and important and usually stick to just a few issues that we would consider to be minor problems while missing the big picture.

The other type of people are those that are too liberal. These people are viewed as people that do not have a sound foundation of beliefs as far as the more conservatives would believe. Many of them ignore issues that we would find to be of extreme importance and they do not stand for what they do, or should, believe to be true. These do not want to levy their beliefs on others because they must not truly believe.

I compare this scenario to when I am driving. Those that are going slower than me are “old foggies” that are making it unsafe by how they are driving, while those that are passing me are “out-of-control” and do not understand how dangerous they are driving. While of course I am driving (at whatever speed I decide for the day) at the optimal speed that others should be driving at.

Personally I tend to lean more to the conservative side on most issues. However I find myself critiquing those that are more conservative that I am as people that cannot find the forest for the trees. While the many that are more liberal than me do not have a firm grasp on reality or they will not stand for what they believe in.

What I have learned in my interactions with many that see things differently than I do is that other people study as much, and often more, than I do. These people have put much thought into what they believe and although I do not always agree with them that does not make them wrong.

What do you think?

People person or task oriented person

Is it better to be a "people person" or someone, like me, that is task oriented? In class on Sunday the question was asked, and the answer was that both are important to have. I would agree, but I often wonder if it would be more important to focus on people than on getting the job done.
As a coach/teacher, I am friendly to the students I am around and do care about them, but I often am so OSD that I have to finish what I set out to do that day (especially in coaching).
The main example we use as Christians is Christ's, and many times he gives the example of putting people first and not always finishing whatever "task" was on his plate. I would say this is a bit unfair however, because Jesus' real task was people.

So I ask again is it better to be people minded or task oriented?

Rationalization

I have now been in the blogging world for a few months. While looking at others blogs I have come to a realization. As Christians, it seems we try to rationalize what we would like to do. Don't get me wrong, ask Jamey or my mother, I am the king of this. Finding something that I'd like to do that I know deep down is not the right thing and finding ways to make it sound ok, or at the least not that bad.
I have read blogs on why it is ok to curse, why it is ok to be gay, why it is ok to even use marijuana (spelling ??). I have heard people make cases as to why all these things are ok. Am I off here, or are we looking at a case of rationalization? I here all the time that since I believe in the use of force (military, police) that I am rationalizing something that is wrong, but at the same time I am being told that cursing, homosexuality, and drugs are ok? Is it just me or did I just jump back to the '70s and all the hippies are attacking me? (that is meant as a joke).

"American" Christianity

Those of you who know me, or read my blog occasionally, know that I love the country I live in. I am very proud to live in a country that gives me the freedoms that America does. However, in class yesterday morning I heard the term American Christianity. We were discussing Paul. It got me to thinking.

The quote was used in class that when Americans pray we pray that our burdens be taken off our back. Or at least lessened so that we can continue. Where most of the rest of the world prays that their back be stronger to handle the burden. It made me think.

Often we hear people in churches, especially churches of Christ, complaining of the service where in other areas I would seriously doubt those being persecuted are questioning the song choice or the fact that they could not find a good seat on Sunday.

There are many other examples I could go on about, but hopefully everyone gets the point. I know I will try to think about this the next time I want to gripe about the church or some problem in my life.

David vs. Goliath

I think one of the favorite stories in the bible is the story of David and Goliath. Anyone who has ever felt themselves as an underdog can relate to David. I love this analogy on several levels, the obvious underdog level and the much deeper level of the faith in God.
Tonight we play Montgomery Academy or as they like to be called "The Academy". They are 9-0 and have scored over 33 points in the last 8 games (so you can imagine how great my nights have been as I cannot sleep). Do we have a chance? Did David?

Is it alright to be proud?

Is it alright to be proud of circumstances? I sure hope so. I am tired of people that are not proud of the things they have been blessed with. Too many times do I hear people that are not proud of who they are. I am not advocating being arrogant, just realizing that we are blessed.
I am proud to be a Chrisitian, although I myself am not better than anyone else, I serve a savior who is superior to other gods. It may just be something that bothers me, but it is alright to be a Christian!! How will people become followers if we do not show that this belief is superior to others? Again, I am not better than others, but my God and Savior are. If I don't feel that way, then why would I be a Christian?
I am proud of the country I live. Maybe at times too proud. I am not ashamed that I live in a country that gives me the freedom to worship anywhere I would choose. I am not ashamed that I live in a country that defends those who are oppressed and protects its citizens. I am tired of reading blogs like this "But for now, just enjoy your mid-morning coffee knowing that we live in pretty much one of the dumber countries of the world".
I am proud of what I do for a living. Not many talk against that so I'll move on.

Sorry to vent in two posts in a row, but sometimes I wonder if we realize how blessed we are...

Moral Questions part III

Few more questions for you to weigh in on.

Does God do miracles and heal?
Yes, God heals everyone who asks in true faith
Yes, occasionally God heals but not necessarily
No, God does not heal and do miracles today
Not Sure

What is the nature of damnation?
Eternal torment, sorrow, and regret
Annhiliation
Not Sure/Other

Is assisted suicide ok?
Never
If the person is going to dye very soon and is in great pain
Yes
Not Sure

I am not sure about some of these. I think God can and does do miracles, but do not know why or how he decides to use them.
I know hell is not a place I want to be. The bible mentions weeping and eternal fire.
I don't think I could assist someone in death, but cannot speak for it since I have never been in that situation.

Moral Questions part II

These are some other "moral" questions I found that might provide some interesting discussion. Let me know what you think.

Is it permissible for Christians to drink alcohol?
Yes, as long as it is in moderation
No
Not Sure

Is the death penalty for grave crimes such as murder permissible?
Yes
No
Not Sure

Is premarital sex a sin?
Yes, it is fornication
No, not if the people love each other
No, not at all
Not Sure

Are all people predestined or do people have free will to chose?
God predestines everyone to heaven or hell
God predestines foreknowing what we will choose
It is a paradox, both are true God does not predestine at all
Other
Not Sure

To be honest I am not sure where I stand on questions 1,2 and 4. I would say 3 is wrong.
I would lean towards alcohol being ok in moderation. But not really for me. The best arguement I've heard towards no alchol was by Eddie Cloer at HU. He simply said "why". Why would you want to drink alcohol when we have so many other choices?
I would also lean to saying I am for the death penalty, but do not think I could be the one to enforce it.
The last one is difficult. If God knew we would not choose him, why make us? I still don't even come close to understanding that one...

Questions

Was looking for some interesting questions to get some comments and found a link that had several "moral" questions. Here are a few:

Is it a sin to vote for a politician who is pro-choice on abortion?
a. Yes
b. Sometimes, depends on the circumstances
c. No
d. Not sure


Is abortion morally permissible?
a. Yes, it is the woman's choice
b. Only in cases of rape, incest, life of mother, etc
c. Only to save the life of the mother
d. Never permissible
e. Not sure


What is your view of the charismatic movement?
a. It is from God and is the future of the Church
b. It is a good movement, but not for everyone
c. One should be wary, the movement has problems
d. From the devil
e. Not Sure

What are your views on excommunication?

Should a Christian marry a non-Christian?


Well, what do you guys think? These are pretty deep questions. I feel we should vote for the more moral of the choices (regaurdless of party), abortion is at no time permissible, I like the charasmatic movement (as long as truth is being preached, which often is not the case), not totally sure on excommunication (but think there are cases when it needs to be used), and do not think a Christian should marry a non-Christian.

Tell me your opinions.

Top Christian Groups

I love Christian music. Ask Jamey, I own every wow that has been put out and will ask for Wow 2007 this year for Christmas. I love older artists, I love the newer artists. Here are my top 10 favorite. And my bottom groups.

10. Salvador: Not a very well known group. But I heard a few of their songs on WOW and bought a CD. I love almost every song.

9. Acappella and AVB: This shows my church of Christ roots. I grew up with these groups and still enjoy their music. Unfortunately I have lost many of my CD’s/Tapes of these two groups. So if anyone has a copy I’d like to copy it (I’ll pay for any expenses, you can’t even buy many of the albums anymore).

8. David Crowder: Very good music. Great to worship with in the car. Has a very distinct voice that is really not my favorite, but I love his passion and lyrics. I think he will also move up the more music he puts out.

7. Mercy Me: Love their albums. I will move them up as they stay around. They have a cross over hit with “I can only imagine”, but have many more songs that are just as good if not better. The lead singer has a very distinctive voice that I enjoy. Their lyrics are very deep as well.

6. Jars of Clay: The song “worlds apart” is an all-time favorite of mine. But “Flood” is another that topped the charts for awhile. Also have many others. The newer albums are decent, but not like those first ones.

5. Jeremy Camp: A newer artist. I don’t even own a CD of his, but love his music on the Christian radio.

4. Michael W. Smith: The legend. He has been there from the beginning. From “Go west young man” to his newest albums he has songs that will be forever remembered. I prefer his worship albums, but many of his older ones are also very good. “Friends” will always be a big hit in the Simpson family.

3. DC Talk: Many top albums. I personally love all from the old school raps to the newer alternative style. Their lyrics have inspired me since I was young.

2. Third Day: This group has burst onto the scene in the last 5 years (for me). I own many of their earlier albums and love their live stuff. Mac Powell (I think that is the name of the lead) has a great voice. I love the message of many of the hits, but the band is very skilled as well.

1. Steven Curtis Chapman: My all-time favorite. I own about every album he has put out. Have listened to him since he first got started and continue to buy his albums. His recent releases continue to inspire. I love his voice, but more importantly his message. BTW: Has any song been played in weddings more than “I will be here”.


THE BOTTOM FIVE
5. Petra: Christian rock is hard enough to get behind. Christian 80’s rock is way harder. This is like listening to the big bands of the 80’s singing Christian music.

4. Geoff Moore: Has good lyrics and is probably a really good guy. His music is just awful. “Homerun” is terrible.

3. Amy Grant: Had two or three good songs. “Baby, baby” is not one of them. Her personal life puts her here. (Others that were good, but had personal issues: Michael English). Not saying she cannot be forgiven, it just makes it hard for me to buy her Cd’s.

2. 4 Him: The backstreet boys of Christian music. Had one good song on a Wow CD awhile back, but the rest was awful.

1. Point of Grace: They have about as much depth as a Frisbee in their music. And the all girl group is not even that good of singers.

Top Ten Christian Movies

Next List. This time the top 10 Christian Movies. The criteria is that I have to have seen the movie.

10. Martin Luther: The 1950's version.

9. Prince of Egypt: Has a few "movie liberties" taken. But is a very well done movie.

8. Jonah: Veggietales special.

7. Luther: Very good movie about the Reformation.

6. The Ten Commandments: Oldie but a goodie.

5. Ben-Hur: Not completely on Christianity, but has several good scenes and gives context.

4. JESUS: Another portrayal of the life of Christ.

3. The Chronicals of Narnia: The books are better than the movie. But its points are very clear.

2. Gospel of John: Very well done version taken directly from the book of John.

1. The Passion of the Christ: Very intense movie that is a must see at least once, and probably should be seen more than that, for Christians.


Tell me which I missed.

"Christian Politics"

As I read several friends blogs, and links to other blogs, to other blogs. I become more and more disturbed about one thing. Our "politics" as Christians. It seems more and more we as well as the rest of the nation want to turn away from the actual history that America was founded as a christian nation. I was actually very surprised to hear this from many people that thought it was fact. When in reality that is as far off-base as one can go. Here are just a few small examples of the true history of the founding of our nation.

52 of 55 signers of our Declaration of Independence were deeply religious

Immediately after creating our government the Continental congress bought 20,000 bibles for the people of the nation (as a governmental purchase)

Quote from Patrick Henry: "It cannot be emphasized too strongly or too often that this great nation was founded not by religionists, but by Christians; not on religion, but on the gospel of Jesus Christ."

George Washington in his farewell speach: "It is impossible to govern the world without God and the Bible. Of all the dispositions and habits that lead to political prosperity, our religion and morality are the indispensable supporters".

In 1782 the U.S. Congress voted this resolution: "The congress of the United States recommends and approves the Holy Bible for use in ALL SCHOOLS"

Of the first 108 universities founded in America. 106 were distinctly Christian.
The Harvard Student Handbook rule #1: the students must know Latin and Greek in order that they may STUDY THE SCRIPTURES

For over 100 years over 50% of Harvard Grads were ministers

There are many more examples that I could list. But I think the point has been made. Our nation was founded as a Christian nation. Unfortunately, now our nation is so depraved morally. What is even more sad is that many Christians were not even taught that it has not and should not be this way. This is where "Christian politics" come into play. I know and acknowlege that my allegiance is first to my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To that end I feel that I need to be involved in decisions that are made in the place I live. A country that once was a deeply Christian nation. And despite as bad as it has become. Why do you think we are attacked by Muslim extremists? It is not because we are athletically or mentally superior or a threat. It is because we are still viewed as a Christian nation.

Although our nation is not where any of us would like it to be: ie. Gay marriage, abortion, etc... We must continue to be ACTIVE in our government. It is shocking for me to hear of others that will not vote, or do not care about the affairs of the nation in which we live. To many times as Christians we take a passive approach and become the "silent majority" on major issues. I hear people all the time talking about how America is going down hill, yet doing nothing.

Despite all the immorality in the U.S. we are in better shape than all of Europe, most of Asia and many other nations. To this end I feel we must be proud that we do have religious freedom, and must attempt to gain back the "Christian" part of America.