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Ethics: the Deacons are Freemasons!

Mark — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 16:49:23 +0000

What would you do Wednesday!

Freemasonry is not as active as it was in the past. It was already on the decline when I left the lodge 13 years ago. Although I imagine the Shriners, of whom all are Masons, are still pretty active.

Freemasonry was once a concern in Southern Baptist life. In fact, the North American Mission Board’s apologetics website has a few resources on Freemasonry under “New Religions and Cults.”¹

A 1993 Southern Baptist study on Freemasonry concluded with a list of items showing where Freemasonry and Christianity were not compatible. However, the report also acknowledged:

That many oustanding Christians and Southern Baptists now are, and in the past have been Masons, including such notable past Southern Baptist leaders as B.H. Carroll, George W. Truett, L.R. Scarborough, W.T. Connor, Louie D. Newton, and J.B. Lawrence.²

What if you discovered that the deacons in your church were Freemasons?

Imagine that you have been attending a local church for a year. In the last few months you began to know a few of the deacons a little better. During that time you also began noticing that most of the deacons wore similar lapel pins.

Finally, you get a chance to privately ask one of the deacons about the pins. This deacon is glad you asked. He explains that they are Freemasonry pins and that all of the deacons are Masons. He was hoping that you would ask since Masons are forbidden from actively recruiting.

“Freemasons have always been part of this church,” the deacon explains. “Years ago we dedicated the Family Life Center in the name of our lodge,” he says as he walks you around to the dedicated stone that is etched with date, church name and Masonic symbols. The deacon encouragingly asks if you have anymore questions about Masonry?

What would you do?

Ask more about Freemasonry including how to join.
Ask about how Freemasonry lines up with Christianity.
Say thanks, but no thanks.
Talk with the pastor about this issue.
Smash the Masonic stone and tell the deacon to repent.
Or…

________________________

Freemasonry. 4truth.net ↩
Southern Baptist Convention 1993 Freemasonry Report ↩

Ethics: Church Discipline Contract Issued

Mark — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 20:22:17 +0000

What would you do Wednesday!

Today’s situation deals with the uncomfortable issue of church discipline. To make the situation more uncomfortable a church discipline contract will also be involved. The scenario is inspired by real circumstances surrounding a former Mars Hill Church member named Andrew who was issued a church discipline contract to sign.¹

Imagine that you (or a friend if you wish) has just confessed and repented of being sexually involved with a fellow church member who happens to be the child of one of the church elders. The confession took place in the covenant group that you are a part of where it was then taken to one of the pastors/elders.

The pastor then issued a church discipline contract which he expected you to sign and follow. The discipline contract laid out the following steps that would be taken on the road to restoration.

You will attend a covenant group and meet with its leader on a regular basis.
You will not be involved in serving in the church.
You will not pursue or date anyone inside or outside of this church.
You will write out in detail your sexual and emotional attachment history and share it with covenant group leader.
You will write out in detail the chronology of events and sexual/emotional sin and share it with the covenant group leader and a pastor.
You will write out a list of all people you have sinned against during this timeframe, either by sexual/emotional sin, lying or deceiving, share it with the covenant group leader and develop a plan to confess sin and ask for forgiveness.

How would you respond (or advise your friend to respond)?

Follow the contract no questions asked.
Possibly follow the contract after some clarification.
Inquire as to whether or not the elders child was also issued a contract.
Dispute the contract explaining that you have repented.
Leave the church.

__________________________________

Andrew, former Mars Hill Church member. Mark Driscoll’s Church Discipline Contract: Looking For True Repentance at Mars Hill Church? Sign on the Dotted Line ↩

God is Doing Amazing Things!

Mark — Tue, 24 Jan 2012 17:07:19 +0000

God is going to do something awesome.
God is going to do something amazing.
God is doing something incredible.
God is doing something awesome.
God is doing something amazing.
God is doing amazing things.
It’s going to be awesome.
Let’s change the world.
God will prosper you.
Fly with the eagles.
Listen to the Spirit.
It’s all about love.
Lives will change.
God is working.
Look to Jesus.
Praise God.
Amen.

Such sensational words are sometimes used in preaching for dramatic emotional effect. Yet, the words themselves must be attached to something or they stir empty praise and emotion.

What has actually been communicated in the above words?

On Public Rebuke

Mark — Fri, 20 Jan 2012 20:15:46 +0000

As far as I know, being rebuked is not something to which most Christians look forward, especially, being publicly rebuked. However, Scripture says it is good for rebuke (2 Tim. 3:16). Scripture even includes the well-known example of one Apostle publicly rebuking another Apostle (Gal. 2:11, 14).

Today, there is no shortage of Christians rebuking one another online. Though direct, public rebukes in person is not often carried out. Occasionally, one might hear a public rebuke about a particular person, but the more popular route is to address poor teaching in general leaving the teacher unnamed. In the past, I have argued whether or not the practice of general criticism aimed at the unnamed is a good biblical practice.¹

Furthermore, public rebuke as carried out by Paul toward Peter in Galatians 2 is almost unheard of today. However, a recent situation come very close. Matt Chandler offered what appears to be a public rebuke in his recent sermon at Steven Furtick’s Code Orange Revival at Elevation Church. It seems Chandler’s message could be easily set against that of the other speakers at Code Orange. Elevation Church was actually accused of censoring Chandler’s sermon.² Chris Rosebrough has further documentation and insights into the reasons why Chandler’s sermon was not replayed during the Code Orange re-broadcast.³

Chandler was certainly the odd man out at this conference. One may even argue biblically that he should have declined the offer to participate. However, his message and attendance were needed. He preached the gospel, did not boast in himself, and challenged those in attendance that God is about His glory. Chandler explained finding joy over happiness in the Christian life.

Chandler’s most direct rebuke is found in the following words.

I think God is for you, and I think God loves you and He delights in and He’s going to shepherd you, He’s going to lead you. But He’s going to do it all to make much of Himself and to point people towards Himself. So just be careful. Because with a little shift here and a little drift there, God’s name is still on it but you know, ‘That Pastor Steven, it was his vision’ and ‘We have the best worship in the world,’ and before long you can weave these things into your culture and into your ethos that are opposed to the things of God. So when I pray for this church and your pastor, I pray God will protect you.⁴

Chandler’s warning was clear, but the exact target subtle. He provided a good example of warning against a potential unbiblical practice in the church. He could have gone further though some may say that would have been in bad taste since he would have been clearly rebuking the church that invited him.

Would a clearer rebuke have been in bad taste?

I would like to use the example of Paul rebuking Peter to answer this question with a “no”. Before preceding, understand that I am not criticizing Matt Chandler by using his sermon as an example. I am thankful Chandler was courageous enough to say what he did. What I am saying is that Chandler could have gone further and it would have been biblically acceptable to do so.

In Galatians 2 beginning in verse 11, Paul writes about publicly rebuking Peter. A few verses earlier, however, Paul acknowledges that Peter was also entrusted with the gospel (v. 7) and viewed as a pillar of the faith (v. 9). Given Peter’s standing in the Christian community it would seem the Paul would be somewhat sensitive in his public correction of Peter. What Paul writes may lead one to think differently.

But when Cephas came to Antioch, I opposed him to his face, because he stood condemned. (Galatians 2:11 ESV)

Paul uses strong, direct words. He continued.

But when I saw that their conduct was not in step with the truth of the gospel, I said to Cephas before them all…(Galatians 2:14 ESV)

It is clear that the gospel is more important than the Apostle Peter. It is also clear that Paul is speaking publicly in his rebuke in which he directly corrects Peter’s errors.

Notice what Paul does not say and do. Paul does not excuse Peter because God used Peter’s gospel preaching at Pentecost to convert 5,000 people. Paul does not excuse Peter because of his Apostleship. Paul does not show signs of being judged as a hater as reason enough to cowardly back down and not publicly rebuke Peter while defending the gospel.

Rather, Paul shows what the two greatest commands given by Jesus look like in action. First, he loves God by defending His gospel. Second, flowing from Paul’s love for God, he expresses his love for others in caring for their souls by defending the gospel making sure God’s grace and Christ’s death are not made void (Gal. 2:21).

Finally, there is good reason, i.e. the sake of the gospel, for Christians to follow Paul’s biblical example of public rebuke just as they follow many of his other examples.

For what it’s worth…

Mark

P.s. I had other points to consider, but did not want to make the post too long. One of those points was about public rebuke being potentially more helpful if the person being rebuke is clearly stated. The reason may be shown in the example of Matt Chandler’s rebuke noted above. The careful listener, and even the person toward whom the rebuke was aimed, may have picked up on the theological issues Chandler was reproving. However, judging by the audience applause, it was not clear that they got it. Therefore, the way Paul pointedly addressed Peter along with Peter’s theological errors provides a further illustration of how a public rebuke may be carried out. If it is not clear which messenger and message is being reproved this may lead the audience to theological confusion or simply leave them embracing theological error.
__________________________

The Southern Baptist Phantom Menace ↩
Brittany Smith. Elevation Church Accused of Censoring Reformed Pastor’s Sermon. The Christian Post. ↩
Chris Rosebrough. BREAKING NEWS: Elevation Employee Reveals Reason For Chandler Sermon Censorship. Also, check out some of Rosebrough’s recent radio shows where he biblically critiques the teaching at Code Orange Revival. ↩
Thanks to J.S. Park for the transcription. Matt Chandler Rebukes At The Code Orange Revival ↩

© Mark for Here I Blog, 2012. | Permalink | 7 comments | Add to
Post tags: Code Orange Revival, Matt Chandler, public rebuke, rebuke, Steven Furtick

Ethics: Prominent Pastor Plagiarizes?

Mark — Wed, 18 Jan 2012 17:56:43 +0000

What would you do Wednesday!

The question of plagiarized sermons comes up every now and then. Whether or not one should preach someone else’s sermons has been debated in the blogosphere, too. Selling sermons must not be too bad of a business considering the eight sites listed on Sermon Source that continue to sell sermons. There are probably more than just these eight sites selling sermons.

Of course, buying someone else’s sermons does not mean that they will be delivered as original work from the pulpit. However, this does happen to the extent that one pastor recently stepped down over sermon plagiarism.

Today’s scenario is slightly different though it is based on a true situation. The situation is that one relatively prominent pastor has used sermons of another prominent pastor with no citation of who the work belongs to.

The situation is that someone discovered the same sermon on two different church websites from two different pastors with both listing the source of the sermon as that church’s pastor. One pastor has had the sermon on the website dating eight years earlier than the other. It would seem that the pastor with the later dating copied the work of that of the earlier dating.

Consider the following ethical questions concerning this situation keeping in mind that you are not part of either congregation.

Are you obligated to say anything to anyone? Is it best to keep silent? If you don’t keep silent, what biblical principle should be followed? Is Matthew 18 to be followed? How would you start the process and the follow-up?

Is using someone else’s sermons immoral or unethical? Do the churches have a right to know? Should the churches who pay these pastors have a right to original sermons?

Maybe the second pastor has permission from the first pastor to use his material. Maybe neither man cares if anyone is cited as doing the original sermon, then what?

Would you feel responsible if you reach out to the churches and reveal what has happened and a pastor loses his job? What about his family? Does it matter that the sermons are spiritually healthy and the flock is being fed by them?

What would you do?

What would you do if one of the above were your pastor?

Jimmy Fallon on Tim Tebow: Comedy or Blasphemy?

Mark — Fri, 13 Jan 2012 16:51:27 +0000

Last night on Late Night with Jimmy Fallon, Jimmy Fallon did a parody song by combining Tim Tebow to David Bowie and producing the singer Tebowie (Tim Tebow + David Bowie = Tebowie). Fallon sung as if a dialogue were taking place between Tim Tebow and Jesus Christ to the tune of Bowie’s song “Space Oddity” (lyrics below).

Did Jimmy Fallon go too far?

If you think he went too far: Tweet him that he should apologize.
If you think it was just right: Tweet him that he was funny.

The Lyrics

Tim Tebow to Jesus Christ. (x2)
Commencing fourth down, hut, hut, hike.
Tim Tebow to Jesus Christ.
Snap the football and may God’s love be with me.
This is Jesus Christ to Tim Tebow,
Please leave me alone.
Don’t you know my day of rest is Sunday?
And I’m sick of watching all these Broncos’ games.
I hear that you play New England next week.
Dude, you’re on your own.
Brady is too good and I’ve got better things to do.
Though I’ve passed 316 yards there’s still two games to go,
If I want to make it to the Super Bowl.
And show everyone on earth how to Tebow.
Tim Tebow to Jesus Christ, the Broncos won, we’re still alive.
Come on, everyone, Tebow.(x4)

What do you think?

© Mark for Here I Blog, 2012. | Permalink | 10 comments | Add to
Post tags: David Bowie, Jimmy Fallon, Tebowie, Tim Tebow

Ethics: Church to Lose Funding Over Homosexual Adoption

Mark — Wed, 11 Jan 2012 15:02:51 +0000

What would you do Wednesday!

The New York Times reported that Roman Catholic charities in Illinois must comply with a new requirement to “consider same-sex couples as potential foster-care and adoptive parents if they want to receive state money.”¹ Catholic bishops claim that these requirements infringe on freedom of religion. Catholic charities in other cities have closed their adoption services rather than comply with the new requirements. The article also states that five Catholic Charities in Illinois get 60 – 92% of their revenue from the state.

For today’s scenario, let’s move the above situation to your local church.

Your church has been providing adoptive services for the community and surrounding areas for 20 years. State legislation was just passed requiring your church adoption services to consider homosexual couples as potential adoptive parents or foster parents. If this new requirement to consider homosexual couples is not met, state funding will be cut-off.

State funding makes up 60% of the adoption services revenue while the other 40% comes from donations from various outside sources. You have only been on the board of directors for a year. Yet, you must consider all of the options on what’s best for serving the community while not compromising your Christian beliefs.

What would you do?

Comply and take the money because it’s needed and we shouldn’t judge anyway.
Comply and take the money for now, but slowly ween the charity from state funding.
Don’t comply and just shut down the charity.
Don’t comply and trust God to continue providing.
Don’t comply, stand on your beliefs and fight on the basis of freedom of religion.
Move the charity underground and offer black market adoptions.

_________________________

Laurie Goodstein. Bishops Say Rules on Gay Parents Limit Freedom of Religion. The New York Times, December 28, 2011 ↩

What God is This? Osteen on Oprah

Mark — Mon, 09 Jan 2012 19:36:56 +0000

This clip is riddled with unbiblical conclusions. Toward the beginning, in reference to Osteen’s prosperity preaching, Oprah asks, “What god would want you to be poor and miserable?” Osteen does say that prosperity includes peace of mind and a healthy body rather than just material wealth.

Osteen also says that there is a belief that says, “You’re supposed to suffer more and be poor and to show your humility.” He then mentions that Jesus died to give us an abundant life in order to be a blessing to others. Further, he claims that he cannot be a blessing to others if he is, “poor and broke and depressed and I don’t feel good about myself.”

At last, Osteen does equivocate much. Are Christians supposed to suffer? Whether Christians are supposed to suffer as those who intentionally seek out suffering is not the question, because Scripture explains that we will suffer. (Cf. For it has been granted to you that for the sake of Christ you should not only believe in him but also suffer for his sake, engaged in the same conflict that you saw I had and now hear that I still have. Philippians 1:29-30 ESV)

Christians are not supposed to be poor though we may be and we are not supposed to make wealth an idol either. We are to serve God joyfully in whatever situation we may find ourselves. How is humility tacked onto to suffering and being poor? No doubt, both circumstances are humbling, but Christians are to be humble in all circumstances (Phil. 4:11-13).

Osteen implies that to be poor is to be broke and depressed, yet he even said that prosperity is more than material wealth, but includes a healthy mind and body. So which is it? Interestingly enough, secular studies have shown that some of the happiest people in the world are poor. Being poor does not mean one is broke and, for the Christian, it should not mean that one is depressed.

Oprah asks if those who are poor, broke and depressed are in those situations because they are “not praying enough or not in alignment?” Osteen answers no stating that it is a mixture of things and the some people have just not “broken through” in certain areas. He continues that there are “forces” that try to hold us down and that people have not been “trained” or “inspired” that they do not have to stay in such negative circumstances because God has a plan for them.

Osteen is right that people do not have to stay in less desirable circumstances, but Christian happiness should not be tied to such circumstances. The rest of the clip continues with Osteen defending his teachings based on how he feels and tries to act with his ultimate responsibility being that he answers to God.

Osteen does ultimately answer to God. Yet, he claims to be a teacher in Christ’s church where he will be judged greater and has more responsibility (James 3:1). That is, of course, if Osteen is to be counted as a Christian and a teacher in the church. Osteen’s teachings should biblically tested and if found wanting should be avoided and rebuked (Titus 1:9, 1 Tim. 6:3, Rom. 16:17).

Osteen’s subjectivity is just what the doctor ordered, if you accept medicine from an unlicensed doctor. There is really nothing new in this interview clip. However, near the end of this clip Oprah inquires with a very revealing statement, “So you walk the walk, you just don’t talk it?”

Finally, I have suffered enough with this clip.

P.S. Friend and fellow blogger Josh Buice also weighed in: Joel Osteen Does It – Again!

Elephant Room II and TD Jakes’ Oneness Association

Mark — Thu, 05 Jan 2012 19:51:57 +0000

Elephant Room II is only 20 days away. T.D. Jakes is still on the schedule.¹ Several of us disagreed with Jakes being a participant², including Mark Dever who withdrew³, but I did suggest some questions for Jakes.⁴ Although I am still not very excited about Jakes participation, I am interested in what he will have to say, especially, in his session with Mark Driscoll where the following issues are supposed to be addressed.

What are the ‘majors’ of Christian doctrine that cannot be diluted or denied for a person to be a Christian? How can we help one another move beyond the bare minimum of accepted belief, to a pursuit of robust, soul-satisfying, biblical substance? How should we relate to those who do not yet embrace the benefit and priority of sound biblical doctrine? Is there a difference between a person in error and a wolf in sheep’s clothing? What benefits derive from keeping the majors on a separate list and not letting the ‘minors’ divide us? Is it possible to love the truth without compromise and still work passionately for unity?⁵

In light of the answers I received to recent questions, an additional question of ministry associations would be interesting. T.D. Jakes has long been affiliated with the organization Higher Ground Always Abounding Assemblies (HGAAA). On their Facebook page I asked (screenshot below), “Is T.D. Jakes still the Vice-Prelate of Higher Ground? Also, is Higher Ground still Oneness in their theology of the Godhead?”⁶

The answer from Timothy Starkey was “Yes and yes.” Yet who is Mr. Starkey? The West Virginia & East Tennessee Council of Pentecostal Assemblies of the World, Inc. lists Mr. Starkey as “Minister Timothy Starkey” of the “United Apostolic Faith Church.”⁷ This Council is a Oneness organization as evidenced by their statement of faith which states, “There is but one GOD in essence and in person” who is the triune manifestation, the divine three-fold manifestation and relationship.”⁸

Little did I know that all I had to do was check out the flyer for the “2012 Higher Ground Always Abounding Assemblies, Inc. National Convention.” The flyer has Jakes’ picture with his title of “Vice Prelate” under it.⁹

So what’s the big deal?

The big deal is that even if T.D. Jakes proclaims a clear, unequivocal belief in the Trinity¹⁰, the question remains of why Jakes continues to serve in ministry with Oneness folks. (Other doctrinal concerns remain as well.¹¹)

Would an alleged former Mormon or Jehovah’s Witness get a pass in the same situation? If Jakes’ claimed to be raised in a Mormon or JW congregation, later alleged that he has moved beyond those communities, yet was still a officer serving with a Mormon or JW organization, would the Elephant Room organizers ignore the obvious? I hope the answer is that the ER folks would address such affiliations, but if they were consistent, it seems that the invitation would still have been issued.

Will the question of associations go unasked and unanswered? I have no idea though I hope both with be asked and answered. Let’s hope there is truth in advertisement since the ad on the ER website states:

“You know the rules…No wavering. No sidestepping. No Excuses.”

___________________________

Elephant Room. Speakers & Conversations. ↩
TD Jakes: Association Lacking Discernment? ↩
Did Mark Dever Withdraw from Elephant Room 2? ↩
What Would You Ask TD Jakes at Elephant Room 2? ↩
Elephant Room. Speakers & Conversations. ↩
Facebook page. Higher Ground Always Abounding Assemblies Inc. ↩
West Virginia & East Tennessee Council of Pentecostal Assemblies of the World, Inc. District 23 ↩
Ibid. Our Faith. ↩
2012 Higher Ground Always Abounding Assemblies, Inc National Convention. June 19-22, 2012 ↩
Theopedia. Trinity. ↩
David W. Jones, Russell S. Woodbridge. Health, Wealth & Happiness:Has the Prosperity Gospel Overshadowed the Gospel of Christ? Kregel. December 2010. ↩

Friday Photos: Civil War Reenactment

Mark — Fri, 30 Dec 2011 16:12:31 +0000

It has been said that, “Beauty is in the eye of the beholder” though I have also read somewhere that,”Beauty is in the eye of the beerholder.” Whichever you are, I hope you enjoy a few pictures from my wife’s photo shoot at the Civil War reenactment that took place in Richmond Hill, GA at Fort McAllister. The cannon fire photo is my favorite.

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Post tags: Civil War reenactment, photographs, photography

Ethics: Renting to a Homosexual Couple

Mark — Wed, 28 Dec 2011 17:12:19 +0000

What would you do Wednesday!

The Michael Medved Show recently covered the topic of the discrimination lawsuit filed against Aloha Bed & Breakfast by a lesbian couple. The B&B owner, Phyllis Young, allegedly denied the couple a room due to her Christian views on homosexuality. The lesbian couple is suing claiming a violation of Hawaiian law by discrimination based on sexual orientation. Young is being legally represented by the Alliance Defense Fund, an organization which defends religious freedom.

This should be an interesting lawsuit to follow.

As a Christian, would you do the same as Young? As I understand it, Young actually lives in the Bed & Breakfast which is common among B&B owners. At least one Medved Christian caller said that he would have a problem renting a room inside his home to a homosexual couple, but would not be troubled renting a house or apartment.

What would you do?

Follow Young’s actions and not rent to them.
Rent a room to them.
Rent a room to them, but share the gospel first and explain how their lifestyle is sinful.
Tell them you’ll rent them the shed.
Or…

Also, would your decision be different if you were renting a house or apartment rather than a room in your B&B home?

What Will You Do with the Christmas Gift?

Mark — Tue, 27 Dec 2011 19:57:29 +0000

Another Christmas has come and gone and a new year is around the corner. A year lies ahead both to use this year’s Christmas gifts and think about next year’s. However, some gifts are all ready used up although some are advertised as gifts that keep on giving. There is only one gift that keeps on giving. This gift was given to all, but did you receive Him or reject Him?

What will you do with the Christmas gift?

The Christmas gift given, but not received by all is Jesus Christ. Yet, His birth is celebrated by millions on Christmas day. He is the gift that was given one time for all time.

To those who rejected Him.

You’ve probably heard it all before, “Jesus loves you, blah, blah blah,” right? “Jesus is the reason for the season?” Well, truly He is the reason.¹ However, phrases that become cliches, even if true, get old. The main reason that “Jesus loves you” gets old is probably because you do not love Jesus. Saying and receiving an “I love you” from a loved one will probably never become cliche. Although Christians telling you about Jesus’ love probably feels like a person with a high school crush who won’t leave you alone while you pursue someone else.

The problem is that, unlike a passing crush, you can’t run from your own conscience. The knowledge of right and wrong, that is, sin, will bear down on you. One thing that can be done is to cover current sin with new sin. This method of dealing with sin is like cheering for the anti-hero that wins the day. The anti-hero is not as bad as the really bad guys so it’s easy to cheer for him when he takes them out. The anti-here becomes the hero because he’s not as bad as the next guy, but there is always that tension of his past and of what he might do next.

It is the same with sins covering other sins. You give yourself a pass because you did something better this time. You did a good deed for someone which covers the negative treatment you gave someone else. However you cut this pie of good deeds and bad deeds, it is still about you getting the most out of the pie. How do you know if you have ever done enough to cover the bad that you’ve done to someone else?

In my estimation, you won’t ever really know if you’ve done enough from a human perspective to cover sinning against another person. People will tell you they forgive you and some will mean it, yet think about how you have personally held on to those words and actions when other have hurt you.

I’ve got a cliche for you: Jesus loves you! However, I will have to take at least one cliche back and tell you that Jesus may not have a wonderful plan for your live as you and I might define wonderful. Jesus does, however, have a wonderful plan for your afterlife if you would believe His good news.

The thing about Jesus’ good news is that it can be, and is, received year round. Upon receiving Jesus Christ the real question becomes – what will Jesus do with you? A few things Jesus will do with you is take away your sin, give you new life now and forever, and give meaning, purpose, and focus to your life.

Got 60 seconds to consider the good news?

To Christians, or those who received Jesus.

My question to you, and to myself, is simple. Don’t wait until Christmas!

Concerning the Christmas gift, will you live as one who believes the gospel of Jesus Christ?

Will you live as the Apostle Paul describes in one of several places in Scripture?

Put on then, as God’s chosen ones, holy and beloved, compassionate hearts, kindness, humility, meekness, and patience, bearing with one another and, if one has a complaint against another, forgiving each other; as the Lord has forgiven you, so you also must forgive. And above all these put on love, which binds everything together in perfect harmony. And let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were called in one body. And be thankful. Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly, teaching and admonishing one another in all wisdom, singing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, with thankfulness in your hearts to God. And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him. (Colossians 3:12-17 ESV)

Don’t wait until Christmas!
______________________

Happy Holidays? ↩

Happy Holidays?

Mark — Fri, 23 Dec 2011 14:39:46 +0000

During Christmas time it is not uncommon to hear phrase Happy Holidays instead of Merry Christmas. Of course, many people still say Merry Christmas. I prefer Merry Christmas and will even reply as such when people say Happy Holidays to me. Depending on the worldview there are people who not only prefer one phrase to the other, but are offended when his or her particular holiday greeting is not used.

In recent years, some large department stores moved away from using the term Christmas to using Holiday instead. This move upset many Christians who complained to those stores. Many of those stores decided to go back to using Christmas in their advertising. However, no matter what description a store uses for the Christmas holiday season, it does not move that store any closer to being a Christian organization.

Department stores that use verbiage to avoid negative press and make the majority of their customers happy may find themselves in a tough spot. Depending on one’s perception of a store’s advertisements said store may be charged with using Christmas to sell products. Of course, the goal of advertising is to sell products regardless of the time of year. Stores will not be able to please everyone with their ads.

Yet the official American holiday is Christmas.

In 1870, President Ulysses S. Grant signed a law officially declaring Christmas a U.S. Federal holiday. One might ask just what was meant by Christmas in 1870. The 1828 dictionary definition was as follows.

The festival of the Christian church observed annually on the 25th day of December, in memory of the birth of Christ, and celebrated by a particular church service. The festival includes twelve days.¹

Years later, in 1913, Christmas was defined as:

An annual church festival (December 25) and in some States a legal holiday, in memory of the birth of Christ, often celebrated by a particular church service, and also by special gifts, greetings, and hospitality.²

The legal U.S. holiday is Christmas which is the celebration of the birth of Christ just a Christians say. Christmas is still in the U.S. Code along with the Federal holidays – Martin Luther King, Jr.’s birthday, Washington’s Birthday, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Columbus Day, Veterans Day and Thanksgiving Day.³ I am unaware of any other holiday besides Christmas where people try to change the name to something more general in opposition to the actual name of the holiday. Imagine if people tried to change the name of MLK day, Memorial Day, Independence Day or Veterans Day. Considering that Christmas is the official U.S. holiday, etc. one might argue that Merry Christmas is the most acceptable phrase since that is the actual holiday which is observed.

Does this mean Christians should only accept Merry Christmas and reject and protest all other holiday expressions?

There is no doubt that Jesus is the reason for the season for Christians. Is He the reason for non-Christians as well? Observing Christmas as an official Federal holiday in some fashion is not the same as celebrating the birth of Jesus. There are people who do not think much of MLK day or Columbus day, but will take the day off of work. So it should not be surprising that people will take a day off of work, give and receive presents, put up a tree or say Merry Christmas; none of which have anything to do with celebrating the birth of Jesus. A Christian doing those things to the glory of God in memory of Jesus’ death is another story, however.

Yet Christmas is still about Jesus!

Yes, Christmas is still about Jesus for the Christian. A nonbiblical Jesus without the gospel is no Jesus at all. Christians may continue to say Merry Christmas during this season regardless of what others say in response. Christians should expect that non-Christians are offended by Jesus and His gospel (1 Cor. 1:23; 1 Peter 2:8). If the situation allows, use your Merry Christmas as an opportunity to joyfully, not angrily, share the gospel. The unbeliever’s mind is not going to be changed without the gospel because the gospel is the power of God unto salvation (Rom. 1:16; 1 Cor. 1:18).

So don’t have a gospel-less Christmas, but have a merry one by displaying effect of the gospel provided by the fruit of the Spirit which is “love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control” (Gal. 5:22-23 ESV).

Merry Christmas!

_______________________

© Mark for Here I Blog, 2011. | Permalink | 5 comments | Add to
Post tags: Christianity, Christmas, happy holidays, Holiday

Ethics: Don’t Quote Me, Bro!

Mark — Wed, 21 Dec 2011 13:53:32 +0000

What would you do Wednesday!

Today’s scenario is an interesting one involving blogging, although it could be applied to any online writing. The online exchange of words and ideas is amazingly fast.

If a blogger has any kind of audience and he posts something that challenges that audience there is probably going to be a response. The large technology and political blogs certainly get responses, but a blog need have a huge following to get feedback. Even in the small world of Christian blogging one can get into some pretty heated discussion.

So what if one Christian blogger asks another not to quote any of his words without permission?

This recently happened on another Christian blog. The following was requested.

Jared,
On a personal note, I would request that you NOT use my comments on other blogs or websites in your blog articles … without …my permission. My written comments are personalized to that blog article and its context. I would appreciate you honoring my request for the future. Blessings! – Ron Hale¹*

Interesting request. For readers who are unaware, the U.S. Copyright office has a doctrine of “fair use” which states that quoting others may be considered fair in areas “such as criticism, comment, news reporting, teaching, scholarship, and research.”² The commenter above responded again admitting that permission to quote him is not required, but that he is asking that his request be honored nonetheless.

What would you do?

Honor the request no questions asked.
Honor the request, but ask questions.
Not honor the request in general.
Not honor the request as long as he continues writing online.
Write extra blog posts quoting him as much as you can.

*Note: The example used above is just an example of a situation that has occurred on this topic and it is not the topic of this thread. The topic is to answer the question of what you, the reader, would do in this situation.

______________________

Comment from Ron Hale to Jared Moore. ↩
U.S. Copyright Office. Fair Use ↩

Is Tim Tebow a Religious Hypocrite?

Mark — Fri, 16 Dec 2011 18:38:43 +0000

In his article, “Tim Tebow Trivializes Religion” Bill Press uses Jesus’ words in Matthew 6:5 to call Tim Tebow a hypocrite. ¹ In light of Press labeling Tebow a hypocrite he also wishes that Tebow would “STFU”.² Press, a Roman Catholic, attended a Catholic university and earned a degree in theology.³ The 71 year old Press, then, would be considered an older more learned man than Tebow who, it seems, should have some wisdom to share.

Did someone say hypocrisy?

In Matthew 5, Jesus did say:

“And when you pray, you must not be like the hypocrites. For they love to stand and pray in the synagogues and at the street corners, that they may be seen by others. Truly, I say to you, they have received their reward. But when you pray, go into your room and shut the door and pray to your Father who is in secret. And your Father who sees in secret will reward you. (Matthew 6:5-6 ESV)

Press’ rhetoric is simply proof-texting. Several chapters later Jesus’ public prayer of thanks is recorded.

[Jesus] took the seven loaves and the fish, and chaving given thanks he broke them and gave them to the disciples, and the disciples gave them to the crowds. (Matthew 15:36 ESV)

Press may want to reconsider his use of Scripture against Tebow. He may want to read Ephesians 5:4 for himself which is about foolish and filthy talk.

Press continues.

Broncos quarterback Tebow’s not only a Christian. He wants everybody to know he’s a Christian. He brags about it, constantly. He wears Bible verses on his face. He kneels in prayer after every touchdown. And he thanks his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ for every win.

Is it wrong for Christians to want people to know they are Christians? Did the memo get misplaced? If anything, too many Christians may unintentionally (or intentionally) hide that they are Christians. Is Tebow really bragging about being a Christian or is he just truly thankful and unashamed?

Tebow wearing Bible verses on one’s face is too much for some. How about kneeling in prayer? Maybe that is too much too, but the type of actions Tebow is doing already existed within the NFL culture. Players do all kinds of things after a touchdown or a good play. Here in Atlanta the “Dirty Bird” dance started several years ago, but much is not made of these kinds of celebrations. Should Tebow not thank the Lord for victory? He also thanks his team. What will really be telling is Tebow’s public response after losing.

There’s only one thing wrong with that. By dragging God into every football game, Tebow makes a mockery of Christianity – and trivializes religion. The truth is, God doesn’t care who wins an election, a bingo game, or a football game. Sorry, Tebow, Jesus is not a Broncos fan.

Are there a parts of life into which Christians shouldn’t drag God? Are there parts of life from which Christians should exclude God? Scripture does tell us to do all things for God’s glory (1 Cor. 10:31) and to hold every thought captive to obey Christ (2 Cor. 10:5). By my estimation, Tebow is not trivializing religion or making a mockery out of Christianity, but upholding Christianity as the true religion that it is. God may not care who the particular winner of a game or an election is, but God does sovereignly work all things together for good for the believer (Rom. 8:28). We do not know God’s divine purposes in who ultimately wins or losses.

Now, if you’re one of the silly millions of Americans who loves Tebow’s in-your-face kind of Christianity, consider this. What if he were a devout Muslim, who bowed to Mecca after every touchdown and shouted “Allahu Akbar?”
Somehow, I don’t think we’d be celebrating him as a national hero.

How exactly is Tebow’s expression of Christianity anymore “in-your-face” than everything else that is celebrated about American celebrities? Ironically enough, Press is paid to talk, write and think (?) about various aspect of American culture yet does not realize that what Tebow is doing is very much a part of said culture. Americans have a plethora of celebrity gossip and other garbage with which to pollute their minds, so a few moments of Tebow’s display of faith isn’t going to hurt anything. His display of faith may be refreshing for some and may even have some positive effects.

And Mr. Press, if a devout Muslim shouted “Allahu Akbar” after every touchdown maybe that would allow us to have honest dialogue about Islam in this country. While such a celebration may not be to my liking I would not deny him the right to do so. My question to you is -

If a devout Muslim did shout “Allahu Akbar” after every touchdown would you write a similar article criticizing him?

I am not sure who is celebrating Tebow as a national hero since he gets plenty of criticism both about his faith and playing ability. There is something refreshing about Tebow’s public display of faith even if I, and others, don’t agree with all of his methods. ⁴

I’m not sure that Tebow’s talk about Jesus is the real problem for people like Press. Press’ own hypocrisy is not what clouds his view. The real problem may be just as Jesus Himself stated.

“and you will be hated by all for my name’s sake. But the one who endures to the end will be saved.”(Matthew 10:22 ESV)

_______________________

Press, Bill. Tim Tebow Trivializes Religion ↩
Liberal Talker Bill Press To Tim Tebow: “S.T.F.U.”, That is “Shut the F-explictive Up” ↩
Wikipedia. Bill Press: Religion ↩
Ethics: Pastor Opposes Tim Tebow Preaching ↩

Ethics: Pastor Opposes Tim Tebow Preaching

Mark — Wed, 14 Dec 2011 15:16:15 +0000

What would you do Wednesday!

NFL quarterback Tim Tebow gets a lot of news coverage because of the way he and the Broncos are winning football games and, more specifically, for his outspoken faith in Jesus Christ. It could be argued that his Christianity has become more of a story than the last minute wins.

Today’s hypothetical scenario might bring Tim Tebow to your church.

In an upcoming Sunday, your church is holding a youth outreach event that will be held after the morning service. The church youth have been encouraged to invite friends and neighbors.The whole church was asked to think of how they might contribute to this event.

Well, one of your fellow church members just happened to get connected with Tim Tebow through the friend of a friend. He was very excited about inviting Tebow, but he knew he would have to run it by church leadership. Tebow is willing to help with the youth event and would like to share his story and give an invitation at the end of the sermon to close the service.

In his excitement, this church member told a few people and the news spread like a wildfire throughout the congregation. Before he could contact the pastor about inviting Tebow, the pastor had already received a dozen calls.

Your pastor tells you that he will get back with you in a week with his decision about inviting Tebow. A week goes by taking with it dozens of phone calls to the pastor about his decision. Based on the phone calls the congregation does not seem to be of one mind about having Tebow speak.

The pastor decides to bring this decision to a congregational meeting since this is a congregational church and everyone is not on the same page. (I know, but stay with me here!)

At the meeting the pastor explains that as a congregation everyone does not agree that inviting Tebow is the best thing for their local body. He then states his personal reasons why he does not think Tebow is the best idea. After some research, your pastor explains that he does not agree with Tebow’s methods which include the following.

Inviting everyone to ask Jesus into their heart, decisional regeneration, an altar call, leading a sinners prayer and then proclaiming the salvation of those who recited the prayer welcoming them to the family of God.¹

It is time for the congregation to vote.

What would you do and why?

Trust the spiritual leadership of your pastor and vote no.
Vote no for other reasons.
Vote yes.
Try to get Tebow to your house for dinner.

____________________

Edwards, Justin. Tim Tebow’s Christian Evangelism offers one example of such biblical criticism. ↩

Kicking Off the Atheist

Mark — Tue, 13 Dec 2011 15:48:37 +0000

The clip below shows atheist Dan Barker of the “Freedom from Religion Foundation” appearing on Fox Business Network’s “Follow the Money” with host Eric Bolling. First, Barker made some unfavorable comments about Christianity. Then, Bolling stopped the conversation and kicked Barker off the show for “denigrating the name of Jesus Christ.”

Would you have kicked Barker off the show? Why or why not?

© Mark for Here I Blog, 2011. | Permalink | 8 comments | Add to
Post tags: atheism, atheists, Dan Barker, Eric Bolling, Fox

Friday Photo Sharing by My Wife

Mark — Fri, 09 Dec 2011 15:23:02 +0000

I asked my wife if I could post some of her recent photos. She said “yes” and gave me some of them. I think they’re great, but some might say I’m biased.
What do ya think?

Ethics: High School Football Practice Changed for Ramadan

Mark — Wed, 07 Dec 2011 14:50:41 +0000

What would you do Wednesday!

In one of the episodes of TLC’s new TV show All-American Muslim a local high school football team changed their practice time for the observance of Ramadan.¹ Ramadan is a month of Islamic fasting where “Muslims refrain from eating, drinking, smoking and sex during daylight hours.”²

Today’s scenario is based on the above true story.

Your son’s high school football coach sends notice home with each player that practice is changing for the month of Ramadan. The notice is sent a month before Ramadan begins. Instead of practicing at the usually time immediately after school practice will be moved to the early morning hours.

The coach’s note explains that during Ramadan Muslims can’t eat or drink during daylight hours. Since he and most of the football team are Muslim the coach explained that practicing under such malnourished conditions would not be healthy for those observing Ramadan. He also claims that practice itself be less effective.The players will also be somewhat tired from the workload of their regular school days. Therefore, the new football practice schedule during the month of Ramadan will be as follows.

Monday through Friday from 1o p.m. to 5 a.m.

What would you do?

Nothing and let your kid practice with the new schedule.
Express disagreement with the coach, but ultimately go along with him.
Go the principle and school board if need be to stop the new schedule.
File a formal complaint about religious favoritism toward Islam.
Or…

___________________

All-American Muslim: Football Practice During Ramadan ↩
Wikipedia. Ramadan ↩

Ethics: Pastor Admits to Homosexual Orientation

Mark — Wed, 30 Nov 2011 14:37:26 +0000

What would you do Wednesday!

Thanks to my friend Rhology for this week’s topic.

Your main preaching pastor is about to offer a Sunday morning pastoral prayer. Before praying one of your associate pastors steps up to the pulpit to make an important announcement and asks everyone for prayers on the issue. He begins.

As you all know I’ve served as a pastor here for several years. You also know that I have remained single the whole time. What I am about to tell you is not easy to openly admit.

The fact is that my sexual orientation…is…homosexual.

But please hear me out. I am fully convinced, and profess to you now, that the only justifiable and acceptable sexual expression is heterosexuality within a heterosexual marriage, one man and one woman committed for life.

I have put specific guidelines in place to protect myself and the whole congregation. For example, I always leave the door open when counseling people. I am accountable to other pastors about this issue and I even have internet filtering software on my computer.

Finally, it is important for you all to know that I have not engaged in any illicit sex and have no plans to. I also meet with a Christian counselor about the same-sex attractions. Please stand with me in prayer on this issue. Thank you.

This pastor serves the church faithfully and has a great relationship with everyone.

What would you do?

The Gospel in the Liquor Store

Mark — Tue, 29 Nov 2011 19:15:42 +0000

The following true story is about a seminary student sharing the gospel in a liquor store. The student is an acquaintance and the story is shared with permission. This is all that will be revealed of this student.

One of the most divisive disagreements among conservative Christians is the subject of Christians drinking alcohol. Tim Challies highlighted and commented on some of the recent disagreements about Christians and alcohol.¹ Challies provides a big picture view of the subject with a caution to younger Christians to use their freedom wisely when it comes to alcohol.

I pray the following story is received as portraying the wise use of circumstances involving a Christian buying alcohol.

The Gospel in the Liquor Store

The seminary semester was starting soon and one student knew they would have to sign an agreement they he would not drink alcohol while enrolled as a student. Being a good Baptist he did not want to violate a signed promise. He is also believes that Christians have the biblical freedom to drink alcohol in moderation. Nevertheless, he knew he may not be able to enjoy a glass of beer for another year or so depending on his seminary circumstances.

The student decided he would stop at a liquor store on the way home and buy two beers until who knows when. Upon entering the store he asked an employee if they sold a certain brand of beer. The store carried the brand so the student grabbed two of bottles. The employee, busy stocking the shelves, was standing close by and asked the student about the beer he just picked up because he had never heard of it. The employee was a man in his mid-50′s.

The conversation lasted about 20 minutes and gist of it went something like this…

Employee: I’ve never tried that kind of beer before. Does it make you feel really good?

Student: Well, I don’ t drink for that feeling. I enjoy the taste and getting drunk is something from my past life.

Employee: So do you just get a nice buzz then?

Student: Well, I don’t do that either. Believe it or not, I’m actually a seminary student. I’m a Christian now and those things you asked about are in my past now.

Employee: So, you used to get drunk, but you don’t anymore? Do you miss it?

Student: I don’t miss it at all. The good news of Jesus has actually set me free from even desiring to get drunk or get a buzz. Do you know what the good news is?

Employee: Yeah, I was raised Catholic. I know all of that stuff.

Student: Do you consider yourself to be Catholic now?

Employee: Nah, Catholics have all of those rules and stuff to follow. I can’t keep up with them all and that’s not what makes you right with God.

Student: So where are you now with God? What is your relationship with God today?

Employee: Oh, I believe the Jesus Christ alone is the only way to heaven. He is the one and only Savior. Nothing I can do can save me. It’s all Him.

Student: Man, that’s great! So you believe the Jesus died on the cross for sinners and rose on the third day so everyone who believes this has their sins forgiven and has a right relationship with God? You believe that Jesus righteousness becomes ours through faith and that our good works contribute nothing in the way gaining acceptance into God’s Kingdom?

Employee: I believe that.

Student: I believe that too and it’s had a transforming affect on my life. As the Bible says, I am a new creature in Christ which is why I’m free from drinking beer in order to get drunk. I may not be able to have another beer for a year or so.

Employee: Wow! Really? Why not?

Student: Well, I’m Baptist. (smile) And I’m about to start seminary and the school has every student sign an agreement that they will not drink alcohol while attending.

Employee: That’s crazy. Drinking is not a sin.

Student: I know, I know, but that’s their rules. The good thing is that alcohol is not an important part of my life. Like I said, the gospel changed me and my desires. Just like I don’t need to eat quarter pound cheeseburgers, I don’t need to drink beer either. But I’m free to do both.

Employee: I hear you. I think it might be hard not to have just one beer for over a year.

Student: Since you said you believe the good news of Jesus let me ask you something. What does your life look like in light of believing in Jesus?

Employee: (Somewhat ashamed) It doesn’t really look all that good.

Student: Would you like it to be better? Do you have any Christian friends or a church that you could attend?

Employee: Nah, I don’t have anything like that.

Student: Would you agree that having those kinds of Christian relationships are important? Christians are supposed to be there for each other and encourage one another in our walk with the Lord. What do you think?

Employee: I agree. I know you’re right. I need to find a church to go to.

Student: Well, I’m part of XYZ Baptist church just a few miles down the road. You’re always welcomed to join us and I will certainly look for you so you won’t feel like a stranger.

Employee: You know. I’m getting the chills right now from this whole conversation.

Student: Why is that?

Employee: I’ve been thinking about God and my life lately. You just show up here and we talk about all of this stuff.

Student: Providential, huh?

Employee: Yep! I know it’s God working.

Student: Yeah?

Employee: Yep. I’ve always believed that God is in control of everything. My Baptist grandparents always taught me that God is in control of everything so I trust God and just go on and not worry. When I was serving in the military I trusted God through some hard times. I just prayed and gave it to him and didn’t worry.

Student: Awesome! So if you trust that God brought us together will you trust that He is also the one inviting you to church?

Employee: Yeah, I’m going to make it over there to see you all. I’m telling you, this whole thing is giving me chills.

Student: I’ll be praying for you and looking for you then. If I don’t see you I may come back and check on you, okay?

Employee: Yeah, that’s fine. Nice meeting you. Take care.

Student: You, too. See you soon. God bless.

My acquaintance had an insightful thought as he drove home from the liquor store. He wondered who would share the gospel with this employee, and those like him, if so many Christians dogmatically and unbiblically shun alcohol as if the substance itself along with drinking it is inherently sinful. I agree. Abusing alcohol is a sin problem, not an alcohol problem, just as with any other thing that is sinfully abused.
_________________________

Challies, Tim. Christians and Alcohol ↩

Ethics: Christian Converts to Islam to Marry Muslim

Mark — Wed, 23 Nov 2011 15:37:18 +0000

What would you do Wednesday!

TLC’s new TV show All-American Muslim recently had an episode where a Roman Catholic converted to Islam so he could marry a Muslim woman.¹ My wife and I had some interesting discussions about this situation. The Roman Catholic mother and father did not seem to be bothered as much as I suspect most people would be over their son’s conversion to Islam.

Today’s scenario is along the same lines as the above situation.

A married couple who is a long time member of your church comes to you with a dilemma. Their child who has just graduated college plans to marry in six months. The child was also a long time member of your church until going to college four years ago.

The problem is that this recent college graduate plans on marrying a Muslim. Upon finding this out the parents questioned their child asking how this planned interfaith marriage could work. The child informed the parents that they will be converting to Islam and having a Muslim wedding so there will not be an interfaith problem.

The parents are shocked. They do not know whether or not they should even attend the wedding. While they want to see their child marry they don’t want to promote the conversion to Islam.

How would you advise the parents?

Go to the wedding and support their child?
Go and support their child to keep the relationship on good terms?
Stand by the child in disagreement hoping to influence change in their life?
Refuse to go to the wedding, but try to keep the relationship alive?
Refuse to go to the wedding and have minimal contact?
Or…

Bonus!

Would you give different advice if the child were to instead plan on marrying an atheist or agnostic? Why?

________________

Jeff and Shadia’s Wedding pictures after the conversion. ↩

Occupy My Vote?

Mark — Tue, 22 Nov 2011 19:08:41 +0000

I’ve gotten some questions since being a finalist in the Blogging Scholarship and asking for votes so that I might win $10,000 which I would use to pay for seminary.¹ I suppose with all of the Occupy Wall Street² stuff going on people leery of someone else asking for something. Or people probably just want to know things like – Who’s asking? Where would the money go? Does my vote really matter? Does he deserve it?

First, it is a lot easier to occupy a vote for me than it is to join the Occupy Wall Street movement. You can just click here once every 24 hours an vote for me, Mark Lamprecht. You don’t have to go to New York City or even the closest Occupy city in your area. No need to make signs, chant or sleep in tents. Just go to a computer and vote.

Secondly, and more seriously, I’ll briefly answer some of the inquiries I’ve gotten. I am actually in seminary right now pursuing a Master of Divinity degree. The scholarship money would be used to help me pay for the remainder of seminary. The scholarship would be used in lieu of the funding from the gracious saints who are enabling me to attend school now. The current funding provided could then be used for other Kingdom purposes. Last year for the 2010 Blogging Scholarship I won $1,000 for third place. I used that money to pay for two extra week long intensive classes.

It is not difficult to know a little about me from simply from reading this blog. Check out my about page³ or click around and read posts from the past five plus years. In case folks didn’t know, I am a Southern Baptist. I am attending an extension campus of New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary which is where the scholarship money would go. In case anyone is wondering, I do go to classrooms with real professors and will be able to complete 85% or so of the M.Div. degree from this campus.

Also, the extension campus allows me to stay put and continue in my current job to support my wife and daughter and serve my church as a deacon. Since my wife’s back injury I am the only one able to work and winning this scholarship would certainly help.

Why should you vote for me? Purely out of an act of grace and kindness on your part. Even though I appreciate all of the kindness seen in the votes and promotion that everyone has given thus far, you owe me nothing. A few people have asked me to return the favor via a ministry promotion here or there on my blog and I’m considering those requests.

I cannot decide whether or not I deserve your vote as that is up to you. However, whatever your motives, you can always consider voting as the act of grace that it is.

Thanks again, everyone!

____________________

© Mark for Here I Blog, 2011. | Permalink | 2 comments | Add to
Post tags: blogging, occupy, Occupy Wall Street, scholarship, vote, voting

Scholarship Voting Reset: I Need Your Help Please!

Mark — Sat, 19 Nov 2011 05:10:25 +0000

OK, folks. I recently asked for your vote for the $10,000 Blogging Scholarship which, if I won, I would use to pay for seminary.¹ Some people were getting votes that were off the charts in comparison to the amount of monthly website visits they get. A few of us on twitter noticed this trend of what seemed to be an unusually high number of votes for some of the contestants.

Well, things have just changed!

The scholarship administration just sent out emails to the contestants informing us that some changes have been made to the contest due to “ballot stuffing.”

Great news! So here is what’s up.

The contest has a new url.
All voting has been reset to zero.
Voting has been extended for one week, until noon pacific on November 30th.
A new script is being used making it harder for people to manipulate the system.
Everyone may place one vote per day. (This actually means you may vote every 24 hours after your first vote.)

I can really use your help!

Please click here to vote for me, Mark Lamprecht. If you want to really help please vote once a day. I’m trying to think of how I can give back to all of you faithful voters out there that graciously vote and promote me. I much appreciate you!

_______________________

Help! I’ve Got a Serious Problem ↩

Help! I’ve Got a Serious Problem

Mark — Wed, 16 Nov 2011 16:01:30 +0000

My buddy Frank says I’ve got a serious problem.¹ But then my buddy James says that I’m good folk.² Are they just playing good-friend/bad-friend? Who are you going to believe? Hint: They are both friends who are trying to help me with the same cause.

And I need your help too!

I recently wrote an entry essay which was accepted for the 2011 Blogging Scholarship contest.³ Last year I participated in the contest and by the grace of God I came in third.

The competition was steep last year and looks to be stronger this year. The winner gets a $10,000 scholarship which I would use, as the only Christian blogger in the contest, to pay for seminary. The person with the most votes wins…

So I need your votes and, of course, your prayers!

Please click here and vote for me, Mark Lamprecht, it will only take a moment!

Thanks!

_______________________

So You Want My Daughter?

Mark — Tue, 15 Nov 2011 17:55:05 +0000

I’ve always been intrigued about why a Christian would want to date or marry a non-Christian. A solid biblical case can be made that a Christian should only date or marry another Christian.¹ In a mixed dating situation the Christian is not trusting Christ nor finding Him sufficient, but is looking elsewhere to satisfy certain needs. Of course, as with many areas in life Christians fall short and there is always places in their lives where Christ is not primary. This is an admission rather than an excuse for Christians to date non-Christians. As one friend of mine said about a Christian girl dating a non-Christian guy, “you’ve already told him that Christ isn’t all that. You’re just haggling over price.”²

I’m almost more intrigued by a non-Christian wanting to date or marry a Christian. A non-Christian seeks a relationship with a Christian who believes that person is going to hell if they don’t accept Christ. They have foundational opposing worldviews even if there is some agreement of life values. If the non-Christian truly cared for the Christian why would they not respect the Christian and stop trying to get them to go against their Lord? Why would the non-Christian encourage the Christian to go against their Christian values? Is that non-Christian, whether atheist, agnostic, etc., really showing love for the Christian?

Some non-Christian guys might ask a Christian father why he is not good enough for their daughter. Simply put, you are not good enough for my daughter because you think you are too good for Christ.

While thinking about who is good enough for a Christian daughter I think Voddie Baucham gives a nice starting point in the middle chapters of one of his books. Below I’ve listed some of the table of contents with a few additions from the text which makes for at least a nice skeletal structure on the issue.

What He Must Be: …If He Wants To Marry My Daughter
by Voddie Baucham Jr.

4. He Must Be a Follower of Christ

5. He Must Be Prepared to Lead

6. He Must Lead Like Christ (Ephesians 5)

7. He Must Be Committed to Children

8. He Must Practice the Four P’s
Protector which includes:
Personal Holiness
True Gentleness
Great Resolve
Genuine Compassion
True Bravery

Provider which includes:
A Job
Work Ethic
A Plan

Prophet/Priest which includes:
Pray with and for family
Preach to family

_____________

Blogging Scholarship Entry Essay 2011

Mark — Mon, 14 Nov 2011 14:37:21 +0000

Last year I wrote an essay in an attempt to apply for the Blogging Scholarship contest.¹ My entry was accepted and I was entered into the contest. The competition was tough. I was very thankful that though I did not win, ultimately ended up getting enough votes to win third place.²

It’s that time of year again and I could use your prayers and possibly your votes soon. I shared last year’s entry essay so I’m sharing this year’s too.

Blogging Scholarship Entry Essay 2011

I would love to be able to say that I started blogging to change the world. However, I was too much of a realist to have thought that my keyboard would extend that far. What I did hope to offer were some ideas to help change my small, theologically conservative, Christian world. Initially fuel by frustration, a blog allowed me to have a voice. Beginning in June 2004 a new voice in the internet wilderness began speaking. My blog started with a good friend who had some of the same concerns about the Evangelical world that I did, but he soon left to start his own blog. (Don’t worry, we’re still good friends.)

Blogging probably affected me before I had much of an impact on others. Blogging slowly took on new meaning. It was no longer about pouring out my frustrations on the internet with little thought behind the key strokes. Stirring up controversy on a blog is easy, but offering something of substance is a little harder. Blogging has been an avenue where both my thoughts and writing have matured. Some of the behinds the scenes benefits of blogging has been motivation to learn about web design, online marketing, SEO, etc.

The personal benefits of blogging are very much welcomed. However, the real pay-off is the positive feedback from readers. Admittedly, some of the positive feedback comes in the form of agreement, but the most rewarding is when people write thanking me for blogging because they have been blessed in some way. Those blessings include helping someone through a struggle, an important decision, or to just helping them think through issues from a Christian worldview. Sometimes even negative feedback can be encouraging because it tells me that my points were clear and gave those of opposing positions something to think about. Ultimately, my readers may be more of a blessing to me than I am to them. I appreciate all of them.

Blogging continues to be important for my spiritual growth in way of continuing to mature my Christian worldview by thinking and writing through issues in all areas of culture. These areas range from the religious to the political/social from inside to outside the church. The challenge of thinking in public, especially as a Christian, is also humbling. Fellow Christians will not hesitate to push back and challenge my thinking when my approach or tone is perceived as unbiblical.

Blogging is a continued iron sharpening iron venture. The Lord has seen fit to allow me to blog for seven years now and if I am allowed to continue for many more years I’m sure the sharpening process will only carry on.
________________

Happy Veterans Day 2011

Mark — Fri, 11 Nov 2011 13:37:38 +0000

Those who live today remember those who do not. Those who know freedom remember today those who gave up life for freedom.
Today, in honor of the dead, we conduct ceremonies. We lay wreaths. We speak words of tribute. And in our memories, in our hearts, we hold them close to us still. Yet we also know, even as their families knew when they last looked upon them, that they can never be fully ours again, that they belong now to God and to that for which they so selflessly made a final and eternal act of devotion.
We could not forget them. Even if they were not our own, we could not forget them. For all time, they are what we can only aspire to be: giving, unselfish, the epitome of human love — to lay down one’s life so that others might live.
We think on their lives. We think on their final moments. In our mind’s eye, we see young Americans in a European forest or on an Asian island or at sea or in aerial combat.
And as life expired, we know that those who could had last thoughts of us and of their love for us. As they thought of us then, so, too, we think of them now, with love, with devotion, and with faith: the certainty that what they died for was worthy of their sacrifice — faith, too, in God and in the Nation that has pledged itself to His work and to the dream of human freedom, and a nation, too, that today and always pledges itself to their eternal memory.
Thank you. God bless you.¹

____________________

Remarks by President Ronald Reagan. Veterans Day National Ceremony. Arlington National Cemetery. Arlington, Virginia. November 11, 1988. ↩

Are Christians to Blame for Gay Teen Suicides?

Mark — Tue, 01 Nov 2011 15:08:21 +0000

John Shore created the video below and used it to ask if Christians have some culpability in gay teen suicides in an article at the Huffington Post. ¹ The question of whether or not there is a gay teen suicide epidemic has also been raised.²

The video did not make me mad, but it did annoy me. The caricature of Christians portrayed in this video annoyed me more than anything. I can say that I don’t recall ever having a conversation with anyone like the one portrayed above.

But then I thought of a few other things.

Is this really the message that the world gets from Christians concerning homosexuality and other sins? Do we really walk around condemning people to hell? Have Christians not been clear enough that our position is not simply “gay people go to hell” as if hell was set-up exclusively for homosexuals? Have Christians not been clear enough in their views so that the world cannot differentiate between Christian values rooted in God’s holiness and the morality of a bully?

Or is it that the world simply hates Jesus Christ and His gospel that offers forgiveness of such sins so they will not listen?

How can Christians do a better job of sharing the gospel with loving kindness without compromising the position that homosexuality is a sin?

Shore, John. Are Christians Culpable in Gay Teen Suicides? ↩
Radford, Benjamin. Is There a Gay Teen Suicide Epidemic? ↩

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