I believe in the doctrine of election, because I am quite certain that, if God had no chosen me, I should never have chosen Him; and I am sure He chose me before I was born, or else He never would have chosen me afterwards; and He must have elected me for reasons unknown to me, for I never could find any reason in myself why He should have looked upon me wiht special love.
-Charles Spurgeon (A Defense of Calvinism)
Some questions:
-What does scripture teach concerning election?
-Why are some Christians opposed to such a belief? Is it emotional opposition or scripture-based opposition?
-What do you believe concerning election?
Wednesday, October 31, 2007
God Is The Gospel
Christ did not die to forgive sinners who go on treasuring anything above seeing and savoring God. And people who would be happy in heaven if Christ were not there, will not be there. The gospel is not a way to get people to heaven; it is a way to get people to God. It's a way of overcoming every obstacle to everlasting joy in God. If we don't want God above all things, we have not been converted by the gospel.
The above is an excerpt from God Is The Gospel by John Piper pg. 47.
You can read it all for free here or here.
You can read different blog reactions to this book by following the links here.
You can purchase the book here.
Some questions:
-What do you think about the statement quoted above?
-If you read the reaction by Eternal Perspectives, does he make a good argument against Piper's view?
-If you agree with the statement above, how does it impact you? How should it impact you?
The above is an excerpt from God Is The Gospel by John Piper pg. 47.
You can read it all for free here or here.
You can read different blog reactions to this book by following the links here.
You can purchase the book here.
Some questions:
-What do you think about the statement quoted above?
-If you read the reaction by Eternal Perspectives, does he make a good argument against Piper's view?
-If you agree with the statement above, how does it impact you? How should it impact you?
Tuesday, October 30, 2007
Suitcase Stowaway
A 19 year old German girl with only two weeks left to serve escaped prison by stuffing herself in a suitcase that belonged to 17 year old inmate that was being released. Neither have been caught.
When officials were questioned concerning the escape here is what was said: "Our staff are going to make sure they inspect big suitcases more carefully in the future," Weilmann said.
You can read more here.
Some questions:
-How close of a look do you need to tell that a 19 year old girl is in a suitcase?
-Why not finish out the rest of your two weeks instead of being a fugitive on the run?
-Why would the 17 year old who was being set free be willing to agree to aiding the escape of a convict?
When officials were questioned concerning the escape here is what was said: "Our staff are going to make sure they inspect big suitcases more carefully in the future," Weilmann said.
You can read more here.
Some questions:
-How close of a look do you need to tell that a 19 year old girl is in a suitcase?
-Why not finish out the rest of your two weeks instead of being a fugitive on the run?
-Why would the 17 year old who was being set free be willing to agree to aiding the escape of a convict?
Neighborhood News
If you have ever looked at my links on the right hand side you would have seen these two: Amend ETS and Oversight of Souls (Ray Van Neste) as included in that list. I am adding another one today: DennyBurk.com. Denny Burk and Ray Van Neste are the backbone behind the ETS amendment and I would encourage you to visit there sites and take a good look at Amend ETS.
As for Burk, he tends to have some pretty lively discussion on his blog; several in the past two weeks have received over 50 comments and the conversations are meaningful and usually thought out. There are multiple viewpoints expressed and a variety of beliefs when it comes to scripture or cultural issues. If you haven’t visited, please do. By the way, he is the only Christian Studies professor who I have ever met who has pictures of himself on his blog header doing jumps on a skateboard.
Here is a recent post by him on college football (his topics can vary widely) the video of Trinity University's football team is included above.
Monday, October 29, 2007
The Diary Of A Mad Atheist Woman
I ran across this today and thought I would link to it. It is rather long (but in short segments) and a rant on why atheists (or at least this one atheist) has a right to be angry. Here is a quote below:
One of the most common criticisms lobbed at the newly-vocal atheist community is, "Why do you have to be so angry?" So I want to talk about:
1. Why atheists are angry;
2. Why our anger is valid, valuable, and necessary;
And 3. Why it's completely f*****-up to try to take our anger away from us.
So let's start with why we're angry.
You can read more here.
Some questions:
-What do you think about the "right" to be angry?
-Should this same "right" be granted to other groups as well?
-Do you find any of the given arguments compelling?
-What are your thoughts about the comments on the post?
****This is not a family friendly blog. Some may be offended by the content and/or ads.****
One of the most common criticisms lobbed at the newly-vocal atheist community is, "Why do you have to be so angry?" So I want to talk about:
1. Why atheists are angry;
2. Why our anger is valid, valuable, and necessary;
And 3. Why it's completely f*****-up to try to take our anger away from us.
So let's start with why we're angry.
You can read more here.
Some questions:
-What do you think about the "right" to be angry?
-Should this same "right" be granted to other groups as well?
-Do you find any of the given arguments compelling?
-What are your thoughts about the comments on the post?
Marijuana Is To Leaf As Opium Is To Flower
"[Marijuana] is not a drug. It's a leaf," Schwarzenegger told GQ. "My drug was pumping iron, trust me."
The above is an excerpt from California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger when asked whether he ever used drugs by the British edition of GQ. The Governor's publicist says that it must remain in the context in which it was said, a light-hearted interview.
Here is another excerpt from the same interview where Schwarzenegger is asked about other politicians who would not disclose current or past drug use, he says: "What would you rather have? A politician taking stuff and not saying, but making the best decisions and improving things? Or a politician who names all the drugs he or she has taken but makes lousy decisions for the country?" Schwarzenegger was quoted as saying.
You can read more here.
Some questions:
-In context, out of context, is there ever a good time to jest concerning illegal substances when you are in a position of authority?
-What do you think of the Governor's comments?
-Is marijuana a drug?
-Marijuana is to leaf as Opium is to flower as Meth is to under-the-counter house products. Are those correct parallels?
The above is an excerpt from California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger when asked whether he ever used drugs by the British edition of GQ. The Governor's publicist says that it must remain in the context in which it was said, a light-hearted interview.
Here is another excerpt from the same interview where Schwarzenegger is asked about other politicians who would not disclose current or past drug use, he says: "What would you rather have? A politician taking stuff and not saying, but making the best decisions and improving things? Or a politician who names all the drugs he or she has taken but makes lousy decisions for the country?" Schwarzenegger was quoted as saying.
You can read more here.
Some questions:
-In context, out of context, is there ever a good time to jest concerning illegal substances when you are in a position of authority?
-What do you think of the Governor's comments?
-Is marijuana a drug?
-Marijuana is to leaf as Opium is to flower as Meth is to under-the-counter house products. Are those correct parallels?
Friday, October 26, 2007
Man Sues Church For Protesting Sons Funeral
A father of a fallen soldier has taken a church to court due to their protest at his sons funeral. Albert Snyder just wanted a quiet funeral for his son Lance Cpl. Matthew Snyder, attended by friends and family. When members of Westboro Baptist church showed up with signs that depicted sex acts and comments concerning his son’s death being the result of homosexuality in America, it made Albert sick to his stomach; so sick in fact that he took them to court. Here is an excerpt below from the court hearing.
"My God is loving God," Snyder said, adding later "I don't look for hatred in the Bible."
The church's founder and pastor, Fred Phelps, took the stand after Snyder and prompted a strong admonition from Bennett when the pastor said he had not considered whether children would see a sign carried by protesters with the words "Semper Fi Fags" and two stick figures that appear to be engaged in sodomy.
"No, it's an irrelevancy," Phelps said.
Bennett then interjected sharply.
"Just answer the question, sir. Don't determine what's relevant or not relevant. You just answer the question," Bennett said.
Phelps said he chose to use the term "fag" in the group's signs because it comes from scripture but could also have used Sodomite or dog. When asked by Katz why the group made a "Semper Fi Fags" sign, Phelps said it was in response to the need for a warning to the country "that your wicked ways are going to be your doom shortly."
You can read more here.
Some questions:
-How is the gospel displayed through such acts?
-Out of curiosity, I wonder if any of those protests have ever resulted in anyone coming to Christ?
-Do you agree with what Snyder said when he said, “My God is a loving God… I don’t look for hatred in the Bible”?
-Does the term “fag” come from scripture as Phelps stated?
-If you looked at the link to their site, what are your thoughts/concerns?
-If you took your child with you to attend the funeral and there were people protesting with graphic depictions of sex acts and hate speech, how would you respond as a parent?
-If you are a Christian, should you ever sue a church? (Is this even a church?)
"My God is loving God," Snyder said, adding later "I don't look for hatred in the Bible."
The church's founder and pastor, Fred Phelps, took the stand after Snyder and prompted a strong admonition from Bennett when the pastor said he had not considered whether children would see a sign carried by protesters with the words "Semper Fi Fags" and two stick figures that appear to be engaged in sodomy.
"No, it's an irrelevancy," Phelps said.
Bennett then interjected sharply.
"Just answer the question, sir. Don't determine what's relevant or not relevant. You just answer the question," Bennett said.
Phelps said he chose to use the term "fag" in the group's signs because it comes from scripture but could also have used Sodomite or dog. When asked by Katz why the group made a "Semper Fi Fags" sign, Phelps said it was in response to the need for a warning to the country "that your wicked ways are going to be your doom shortly."
You can read more here.
Some questions:
-How is the gospel displayed through such acts?
-Out of curiosity, I wonder if any of those protests have ever resulted in anyone coming to Christ?
-Do you agree with what Snyder said when he said, “My God is a loving God… I don’t look for hatred in the Bible”?
-Does the term “fag” come from scripture as Phelps stated?
-If you looked at the link to their site, what are your thoughts/concerns?
-If you took your child with you to attend the funeral and there were people protesting with graphic depictions of sex acts and hate speech, how would you respond as a parent?
-If you are a Christian, should you ever sue a church? (Is this even a church?)
First For Fridays
A Dilemma: You are asleep and then you here the fire alarm beep once and declare that its battery is low somewhere during the night hours. You go back to sleep only to be awakened again in about 3 minutes with the same beep and declaration. Do you
A. Ignore it and sleep for another 2.5 minutes and repeat throughout the night?
B. Get up, turn the light on, get out the step ladder, find two batteries, open up the smoke detector as it beeps and declares it is low on batteries, replace batteries, figure out how the top screws back on, put away the step ladder, turn the light off and go back to bed after stairing at bright light and hearing loud beeps for all of 10 minutes.
C. Shut the door and turn the fan on high to block out the noise.
D. Take a baseball bat to it and worry about getting a new one tomorrow.
A. Ignore it and sleep for another 2.5 minutes and repeat throughout the night?
B. Get up, turn the light on, get out the step ladder, find two batteries, open up the smoke detector as it beeps and declares it is low on batteries, replace batteries, figure out how the top screws back on, put away the step ladder, turn the light off and go back to bed after stairing at bright light and hearing loud beeps for all of 10 minutes.
C. Shut the door and turn the fan on high to block out the noise.
D. Take a baseball bat to it and worry about getting a new one tomorrow.
Thursday, October 25, 2007
Shoot Up Lidocaine Directly In The Brain & Forget Addictions
Rats addicted to amphetamines temporarily 'forget' their drug cravings after receiving targeted brain injections of lidocaine, a medication commonly used by dentists to numb patients' gums.
You can read more here.
Some questions:
-Even though the view of this is comical, could this be an effective way of "curing" those who are addicted?
-If you have ever been addicted to amphetamines, what was the lure?
-What are your thoughts on drug addictions?
You can read more here.
Some questions:
-Even though the view of this is comical, could this be an effective way of "curing" those who are addicted?
-If you have ever been addicted to amphetamines, what was the lure?
-What are your thoughts on drug addictions?
Top Invester To Cash Out Dollar for Schrutebuck?
Jim Rogers, the man who predicted the commodities rally of 1999 has stated that the US economy is in a recession and he would move his investments to other types of currencies.
I wouldn't be suprised if I found this in his portfolio.
You can read more here.
A question:
-How much do you think those are trading for now?
I wouldn't be suprised if I found this in his portfolio.
You can read more here.
A question:
-How much do you think those are trading for now?
They Speak English In London?
When interviewing Channing Crowder of the Miami Dolphins, he stated that until this past Tuesday that people in London spoke English. He stated: I couldn’t find London on a map if they didn’t have the names of the countries,” Crowder said. “I swear to God. I don’t know what nothing is. I know Italy looks like a boot. I learned that.
To have a little more fun with the press he goes on to say, I know (Washington Redskins linebacker) London Fletcher. We did a football camp together. So I know him. That’s the closest thing I know to London. He’s black, so I’m sure he’s not from London. I’m sure that’s a coincidental name.
Channing Crowder was a University of Florida graduate and reportedly he was a National Honors Society member and held a grade point average of 3.5 and he graduated early.
You can read more here.
Some questions:
-Was he just joking?
-Do you find things like this funny, frustrating or wreckless?
-Because he graduated from Florida, does that influence your thoughts on whether he was just joking or being serious?
-If you are a Tennessee fan does that influence your thought on his statements?
To have a little more fun with the press he goes on to say, I know (Washington Redskins linebacker) London Fletcher. We did a football camp together. So I know him. That’s the closest thing I know to London. He’s black, so I’m sure he’s not from London. I’m sure that’s a coincidental name.
Channing Crowder was a University of Florida graduate and reportedly he was a National Honors Society member and held a grade point average of 3.5 and he graduated early.
You can read more here.
Some questions:
-Was he just joking?
-Do you find things like this funny, frustrating or wreckless?
-Because he graduated from Florida, does that influence your thoughts on whether he was just joking or being serious?
-If you are a Tennessee fan does that influence your thought on his statements?
You Won A Million Dollars, But We Are Not Paying!
Gary Hoffman is suing the Sandia Resort and Casino after finding out that his Million plus win on a nickel slot machine was said to be a machine malfunction. He has a picture of himself in front of the slot machine with it reading his grand total winning. Patrons congratulated him, a marriage proposal was made and even employees congratulated him, but that was all short lived. Soon after he was pulled into a room and told rather forcefully (according to Hoffman) that he did not win anything and the Casino was not paying him anything as the machine malfunctioned. Later he was offered a free meal and the machines maximum payout of $2,500.00.
On the machine is a disclaimer stating that no payout will be granted if the machine malfunctions. The Casino says it was a malfunction (there are two different opposing conclusions on how it malfunctioned) while Hoffman contends it went into bonus mode therefore allowing him to win more than the maximum.
Hoffman is going to take this to court but there is an issue with that; this hotel and casino is owned by an independent Indian nation. They are their own sovereign nation and on few accounts can they be taken before the US court system. So, there is no guarantee that Hoffman will even see his day in court to plead his case.
You can read more here.
Some questions:
-What are your thoughts on gambling?
-What do you think is the right thing to do here?
-Do you think Casino was right in not paying out the winnings?
-Does the disclaimer hold weight in this scenario?
On the machine is a disclaimer stating that no payout will be granted if the machine malfunctions. The Casino says it was a malfunction (there are two different opposing conclusions on how it malfunctioned) while Hoffman contends it went into bonus mode therefore allowing him to win more than the maximum.
Hoffman is going to take this to court but there is an issue with that; this hotel and casino is owned by an independent Indian nation. They are their own sovereign nation and on few accounts can they be taken before the US court system. So, there is no guarantee that Hoffman will even see his day in court to plead his case.
You can read more here.
Some questions:
-What are your thoughts on gambling?
-What do you think is the right thing to do here?
-Do you think Casino was right in not paying out the winnings?
-Does the disclaimer hold weight in this scenario?
Wednesday, October 24, 2007
Flea Markets: Are They Equal To Mini Malls?
He says his is. Be sure to watch some of the other videos where people have gone to the flea market to do the dance and sing the song with him.
Some questions:
Ah, I don't have any- just watch :)
Tuesday, October 23, 2007
Democratic Presidential Candidate Gets Direction From UFO's
Kucinich, she writes on page143-144 of the book, "had a close sighting over my home in Graham, Washington, when I lived there. Dennis found his encounter extremely moving. The smell of roses drew him out to my balcony where, when he looked up, he saw a gigantic triangular craft, silent, and observing him. It hovered, soundless, for ten minutes or so, and sped away with a speed he couldn't comprehend. He said he felt a connection in his heart and heard directions in his mind."
The above quote is taken from a book written by Shirley MacLaine in her book Sage-Ing While Age-Ing where she deals with a lot of issues including her thoughts on what happens to us after death. Shirely MacLaine has been close to Kucinich for decades and is the godmother of Kucinich's daughter.
You can read more here.
Some questions:
-What are your thoughts on UFO's?
-If elected president, what would it mean (if anything) to have a president who is advised by Shirley MacLaine (believes in reincarnation, new age ideology as well as UFO's) and believes in UFO's?
-If you believe in the Bible, is there room for such things as UFO's or aliens?
-How does this jive with Giuliani's response to an alien attack?
The above quote is taken from a book written by Shirley MacLaine in her book Sage-Ing While Age-Ing where she deals with a lot of issues including her thoughts on what happens to us after death. Shirely MacLaine has been close to Kucinich for decades and is the godmother of Kucinich's daughter.
You can read more here.
Some questions:
-What are your thoughts on UFO's?
-If elected president, what would it mean (if anything) to have a president who is advised by Shirley MacLaine (believes in reincarnation, new age ideology as well as UFO's) and believes in UFO's?
-If you believe in the Bible, is there room for such things as UFO's or aliens?
-How does this jive with Giuliani's response to an alien attack?
Micorosft Office Live Basics: Free Domain & Name
Office Live is offering free domain names and websites. That’s right- free. I have had one for almost a year that I use just for the domain name and I have the site point to my videography site. This is great as it allows you to have another web presence for free and the way I am using it all I have to do is update 1 site and use the Office Live site to point to it. Just another way for people to find me.
Some things to look out for: You will probably get some kind of “bill” in the mail asking you to renew your domain name or something similar. That is not a bill, it is a company that is trying to trick you into switching from your free account to a different account in which you will have to pay for it. The only way to get you to do something like this is to make it look like a bill so you will enter your information and pay it. Don’t. Secondly, they ask for your credit card information (I am talking about the sign up for the Microsoft Office Live domain and name service). They ask to ensure that some scalper does not gather every available name and space up on their servers and then turn around and sell them for $. It is okay to give it. I did and have never been billed. You are limited to one site/name per credit card though. What is more, you get an actual full domain name, not www.thenameyouchose.officelive.com you do get www.thenameyouchoose.com A couple other catches: you have to use their templates and the “Office Live” logo will remain on your site. No big deal if you use it how I did or if you really do need a site and don’t want to pay for it.
If you want to see an example, look here: http://www.tennesseevideography.com and http://www.paintballtennessee.com
Some things to look out for: You will probably get some kind of “bill” in the mail asking you to renew your domain name or something similar. That is not a bill, it is a company that is trying to trick you into switching from your free account to a different account in which you will have to pay for it. The only way to get you to do something like this is to make it look like a bill so you will enter your information and pay it. Don’t. Secondly, they ask for your credit card information (I am talking about the sign up for the Microsoft Office Live domain and name service). They ask to ensure that some scalper does not gather every available name and space up on their servers and then turn around and sell them for $. It is okay to give it. I did and have never been billed. You are limited to one site/name per credit card though. What is more, you get an actual full domain name, not www.thenameyouchose.officelive.com you do get www.thenameyouchoose.com A couple other catches: you have to use their templates and the “Office Live” logo will remain on your site. No big deal if you use it how I did or if you really do need a site and don’t want to pay for it.
If you want to see an example, look here: http://www.tennesseevideography.com and http://www.paintballtennessee.com
Monday, October 22, 2007
Cellulite Demples No More
Don't worry women, New Scientist reports: [Alexander] Dagum says cellulite can be reduced by injecting infected areas with collagenase, an enzyme that digests collagen. The treatment can be given either by injection or by applying patches every 4 to 6 weeks.
Dagum claims to have tested it on 10 women and reduced the cellulite by 70%. You better start investing now!
You can read more here.
You can read more about Stonybrook University here.
Some questions:
-Why are women concerned about such things as this while men are not?
-Why do women spend millions on beautification products a year while men could care less?
-Why in the animal kingdom the males are generally the ones with decorative displays and they spend a lot of energy and time on attracting a mate while in the human sphere of things it appears to be the opposite?
-Do women care more about impressing other women or about impressing men when it comes to things like this?
-Should these things even matter? If no, then why do we spend time and resources on buying and applying them?
Dagum claims to have tested it on 10 women and reduced the cellulite by 70%. You better start investing now!
You can read more here.
You can read more about Stonybrook University here.
Some questions:
-Why are women concerned about such things as this while men are not?
-Why do women spend millions on beautification products a year while men could care less?
-Why in the animal kingdom the males are generally the ones with decorative displays and they spend a lot of energy and time on attracting a mate while in the human sphere of things it appears to be the opposite?
-Do women care more about impressing other women or about impressing men when it comes to things like this?
-Should these things even matter? If no, then why do we spend time and resources on buying and applying them?
Speaking Truth In Love: A Hard Task With Family
Over dinner this weekend I posed the question to a family member who is expecting his first child, “Are you going to allow your child to take communion?”
You see, the church he attends does not bar children from participating in communion. They come from a Wesleyan lineage and are of the Nazarene fold. I am unsure as to what their doctrinal stance is on the issue but when I have been there and communion was given, parents would provide a cup and bread for their children (at least the ones that I could see). Some of these children were young and it would cause me to think they do not understand what they are doing (in taking of the sacraments).
So, his answer: “Well, when the child comes to the age of understanding then we might let him/her take communion.” I responded with, “You know, if you didn’t not allow your child to participate and they asked why they couldn’t, that would lead to a great opportunity to share the gospel with your child and explain why only Christians are biblically allowed to partake.” His response was, “Yeah, but they would have to be at the age of understanding.” He totally missed my point.
At a later point in our dinner we were discussing a mutual friend and his thoughts on different issues pertaining to Christian beliefs. When I asked him about how he interacts with him concerning theological issues, he said: “I tend to stay out of the theological discussions as that is what the Pharisees did and I don’t want to be like that.” I corrected him and said that the Pharisees were scorned by Christ due to their willingness to impose stringent regulations on those under them but they themselves were unwilling to submit to the same regulations. They were hypocrites. He agreed but stated that this is why he stays out of theological discussions.
At that point we stopped and moved on to lighter subjects. For some reason, it is easier to engage my family who did not grow up in church in conversation that could be potentially damaging to our relationship than those who grew up in church and cling to their traditional beliefs.
A question:
-So how do you go about encouraging a brother to move from milk to meat when that brother happens to be a member of your family?
You see, the church he attends does not bar children from participating in communion. They come from a Wesleyan lineage and are of the Nazarene fold. I am unsure as to what their doctrinal stance is on the issue but when I have been there and communion was given, parents would provide a cup and bread for their children (at least the ones that I could see). Some of these children were young and it would cause me to think they do not understand what they are doing (in taking of the sacraments).
So, his answer: “Well, when the child comes to the age of understanding then we might let him/her take communion.” I responded with, “You know, if you didn’t not allow your child to participate and they asked why they couldn’t, that would lead to a great opportunity to share the gospel with your child and explain why only Christians are biblically allowed to partake.” His response was, “Yeah, but they would have to be at the age of understanding.” He totally missed my point.
At a later point in our dinner we were discussing a mutual friend and his thoughts on different issues pertaining to Christian beliefs. When I asked him about how he interacts with him concerning theological issues, he said: “I tend to stay out of the theological discussions as that is what the Pharisees did and I don’t want to be like that.” I corrected him and said that the Pharisees were scorned by Christ due to their willingness to impose stringent regulations on those under them but they themselves were unwilling to submit to the same regulations. They were hypocrites. He agreed but stated that this is why he stays out of theological discussions.
At that point we stopped and moved on to lighter subjects. For some reason, it is easier to engage my family who did not grow up in church in conversation that could be potentially damaging to our relationship than those who grew up in church and cling to their traditional beliefs.
A question:
-So how do you go about encouraging a brother to move from milk to meat when that brother happens to be a member of your family?
Thursday, October 18, 2007
First For Friday Comes Early!
It is the wife's birthday tomorrow and I will be out of pocket for the most part of today so I thought I would go a head and post First For Friday. Her family is coming into town and we are taking our nieces to a safari park on Saturday. I think we will have a lot of fun and I am looking foward to it.
Wednesday, October 17, 2007
Divorce: A Biblical Response To Beating Your Wife?
Scripture is clear that adultery & death are the only acts by which marriage may be broken. What then of abusive husbands? If they seperate they deny one or the other of relations and this is only allowed if agreed upon by the two for times of fasting (not due to beating). If they divorce is it acceptable in the sight of God?
Remember the passage in the old testament where the Israelites went out to destroy neighboring towns and a people of far away lands with worn out shoes, old bread and worn out wineskins came to them and made a pact with the Israelites. The Israelites agreed to the pact and gave their word to not attack or destroy them before ever consulting the elders or God Himself. Later on, they were out destroying other cities and came across the people they made a pact with. They were not of distant lands, but a neighbor. They were reminded of their pact and do you remember their response? It wasn't, "You lied to us so therefore our agreement is null and void", but it was, "out of fear of the Lord, they honored the agreement and did not destroy them...". (Joshua 9)
So, what is the proper biblical response to a man habitually beating his wife?
Remember the passage in the old testament where the Israelites went out to destroy neighboring towns and a people of far away lands with worn out shoes, old bread and worn out wineskins came to them and made a pact with the Israelites. The Israelites agreed to the pact and gave their word to not attack or destroy them before ever consulting the elders or God Himself. Later on, they were out destroying other cities and came across the people they made a pact with. They were not of distant lands, but a neighbor. They were reminded of their pact and do you remember their response? It wasn't, "You lied to us so therefore our agreement is null and void", but it was, "out of fear of the Lord, they honored the agreement and did not destroy them...". (Joshua 9)
So, what is the proper biblical response to a man habitually beating his wife?
Could It Be So Simple?
Playing In The Sandbox
I ran across this free software called Sandboxie. I thought I would share it here. It is along the lines of antivirus, ad blocking, spyware protection utilities except that it tackles the issue from a whole new perspective. What it does is keep anything that could/would be a potential virus or ads or spyware from ever reaching your system per se. What it does is set up a transient place of storage. If you download something or get infected with a virus, you simply empty out your sandbox and all is well. It never touches your system or system settings as it never leaves the sandbox. Neat concept and neat idea. I thought some might benefit from it. Give it a look.You can read more about it and download it here.
Some questions:
-What do you currently use to protect your system from unwanted effects?-Do you think this program might aide you in keeping your system running smooth?
Tuesday, October 16, 2007
6 Graders To Be Given Access To Birth Control...
...without parental knowledge in Maine if the measure gets passed via the Portland School Committee. On the one hand, parents have to give permission for the students to be seen by the King Student Health Centers but on the other hand, the things that go on there are considered confidential and parents are not granted access to the files. So, if a child has permission to be seen in case of need, that child also has the ability to go and receive birth control prescriptions without having parental consent or the parent even being notified.
Here is a quote from Lead Nurse, Amanda Rowe:
"This is a service that is totally needed," Rowe said. "It's about very few kids, but they are kids who don't have the same opportunities and access as other students."
You can read more here.
Some questions:
-Should parents have access to this information?
-What are your thoughts about making birth control available to 6th graders?
-Do you think it allows for more promiscuity without as high of a risk for pregnancy or is it effective in curbing teen pregnancy or both?
-Do you think this is an issue of the greater good?
-If you are a parent of a middle school aged child, what would your reaction be if this proposal was brought up in your school district?
Here is a quote from Lead Nurse, Amanda Rowe:
"This is a service that is totally needed," Rowe said. "It's about very few kids, but they are kids who don't have the same opportunities and access as other students."
You can read more here.
Some questions:
-Should parents have access to this information?
-What are your thoughts about making birth control available to 6th graders?
-Do you think it allows for more promiscuity without as high of a risk for pregnancy or is it effective in curbing teen pregnancy or both?
-Do you think this is an issue of the greater good?
-If you are a parent of a middle school aged child, what would your reaction be if this proposal was brought up in your school district?
Monday, October 15, 2007
Jell-O & Cultural Infidels
In what is being called the first conceptual terrorist attack on American soil, the landmark Sears Tower was encased in 18 million tons of strawberry gelatin early Monday morning, leaving thousands shocked, angry, and seriously confused.
"Your outdated ideas of what terrorism is have been challenged," an unidentified, disembodied voice announces following the video's first 45 minutes of random imagery set to minimalist techno music. "It is not your simple bourgeois notion of destructive explosions and weaponized biochemical agents. True terror lies in the futility of human existence."
You can read more here.
Some questions:-Why do you think The Onion chose to write this story?
-What is the idea behind publishing such a story as this?
-Would you eat it?
Joost: TV Online
I downloaded the beta version of Joost. I was not expecting much but it turned out to be quiet impressive. For those who have not heard of it, it is an online streaming media player that functions similar to a Tivo.
How it works: You must sign up for an account and agree to their terms (The only thing I saw that made me cautious was that when I read through the user agreement you are allowing them to use your pc to share content, meaning bandwith and cpu power, and you are allowing them to target you with ads. The ads are only utilized while in the program itself such as commercials or a few popups that are only in the program itself). After you agree, they have a nice user friendly interface that looks extremely sleek. There are channels that you can choose ranging from National Geographic to Fighting to Sports to Drama to ________. I saw a channel for almost everything. If you want to watch it, just click it and it plays. If you don't know what it is, click on the "i" for info and it will bring up a description of the channel. Each channel has several shows on it that are specific to that channel and they add more daily. You can fast foward through a show and you can skip to the next one. You can search for certain programs such as "Saturday Morning Cartoons" and you will get the good cartoons from back in the 80's. You can search for Transformers and get the good episodes from back in the 80's. Like G.I. Joe? They have their own channel. Do you like baseball? They have it. Like "The Onion Network"? They have it. They also have up to the minute news from the major networks and not so major networks and a plethora of other programming from around the world and here.
It is from the makers of Kazaa, but completely legal and legit. The onscreen ads are integrated and and non-invasive so I wouldn't let that stop you from giving this a try. Oh, make sure you exit the tray icon when finished or your cpu and internet will be utilized for bandwith. Make sure you have a decent internet speed though.
Let me know your thoughts if you give it a go.
How it works: You must sign up for an account and agree to their terms (The only thing I saw that made me cautious was that when I read through the user agreement you are allowing them to use your pc to share content, meaning bandwith and cpu power, and you are allowing them to target you with ads. The ads are only utilized while in the program itself such as commercials or a few popups that are only in the program itself). After you agree, they have a nice user friendly interface that looks extremely sleek. There are channels that you can choose ranging from National Geographic to Fighting to Sports to Drama to ________. I saw a channel for almost everything. If you want to watch it, just click it and it plays. If you don't know what it is, click on the "i" for info and it will bring up a description of the channel. Each channel has several shows on it that are specific to that channel and they add more daily. You can fast foward through a show and you can skip to the next one. You can search for certain programs such as "Saturday Morning Cartoons" and you will get the good cartoons from back in the 80's. You can search for Transformers and get the good episodes from back in the 80's. Like G.I. Joe? They have their own channel. Do you like baseball? They have it. Like "The Onion Network"? They have it. They also have up to the minute news from the major networks and not so major networks and a plethora of other programming from around the world and here.
It is from the makers of Kazaa, but completely legal and legit. The onscreen ads are integrated and and non-invasive so I wouldn't let that stop you from giving this a try. Oh, make sure you exit the tray icon when finished or your cpu and internet will be utilized for bandwith. Make sure you have a decent internet speed though.
Let me know your thoughts if you give it a go.
Friday, October 12, 2007
First For Fridays
Post what you want.
If during this past week you went to any of the folk's blogs that I listed in the neighborhood, what stood out to you? Would you visit them again?
If during this past week you went to any of the folk's blogs that I listed in the neighborhood, what stood out to you? Would you visit them again?
Thursday, October 11, 2007
Lake of Fire: A Movie About Pro Life & Pro Choice
A recent film that is on limited release in the U.S. by filmmaker Tony Kaye, known for American History X, attempts to show both sides of the abortion argument. Here is a quote from the article below.
One scene depicts a doctor sifting through a surgical tray after performing a late-term abortion, where the grisly residue of an arm, a foot and part of a face can be clearly made out.
"It's about as shocking as any motion picture can ever get. It's illegal to film someone being killed," said Kaye.
They may be the kind of images used by anti-abortion activists, but Kaye also doesn't shy from showing pictures of a kneeling and bent-over naked woman who died after performing a botched abortion on herself with a wire coat hanger.
You can read more here.
You can see the trailer here.
Some questions:
-Would you watch this film?
-What are your thoughts on abortion?
-If you have watched it, did it change your views on abortion?
One scene depicts a doctor sifting through a surgical tray after performing a late-term abortion, where the grisly residue of an arm, a foot and part of a face can be clearly made out.
"It's about as shocking as any motion picture can ever get. It's illegal to film someone being killed," said Kaye.
They may be the kind of images used by anti-abortion activists, but Kaye also doesn't shy from showing pictures of a kneeling and bent-over naked woman who died after performing a botched abortion on herself with a wire coat hanger.
You can read more here.
You can see the trailer here.
Some questions:
-Would you watch this film?
-What are your thoughts on abortion?
-If you have watched it, did it change your views on abortion?
Islam Sends Out The Olive Branch Of Peace?
In an unprecedented open letter signed by 138 leading Muslim scholars from every sect of Islam, the Muslims plead with Christian leaders "to come together with us on the common essentials of our two religions."
The Institute said: "This historic letter is intended by its 138 signatories as an open invitation to Christians to unite with Muslims over the most essential aspects of their respective faiths - the principles of love of one God and love of the neighbour.
"It is hoped that the recognition of this common ground will provide the followers of both faiths with a shared understanding that will serve to defuse tensions around the world."
You can read more here.
Some questions:
-What does peace mean in a scenario such as what is presented by the Muslim scholars?
-Is there any Biblical principal or command that would not allow for such "peace"?
-Does peace mean that we assimilate and focus on our commonalities?
-They say the world is at stake if peace is not held between the two religions that make up 55% of the worlds population. Is there truth in this?
-Is peace at all costs as an end goal good in and of itself?
The Institute said: "This historic letter is intended by its 138 signatories as an open invitation to Christians to unite with Muslims over the most essential aspects of their respective faiths - the principles of love of one God and love of the neighbour.
"It is hoped that the recognition of this common ground will provide the followers of both faiths with a shared understanding that will serve to defuse tensions around the world."
You can read more here.
Some questions:
-What does peace mean in a scenario such as what is presented by the Muslim scholars?
-Is there any Biblical principal or command that would not allow for such "peace"?
-Does peace mean that we assimilate and focus on our commonalities?
-They say the world is at stake if peace is not held between the two religions that make up 55% of the worlds population. Is there truth in this?
-Is peace at all costs as an end goal good in and of itself?
What Picture Are We Painting For Our Children?
This was a perfectly clean picture before I got a hold of it. The colors were correct, the smoke blended nicely in the background and it looked like an accurate representation of that day. Now I can't find the original (not that I need it) but this did get me to start wondering. What do children think who grow up in a Hollywood overlayed world? Where reality is blurred with fiction and they can't seem to distinguish where one begins and the other ends.
I remember when I was young and I thought I could become just as powerful as He-Man just by merely saying, "By the power of Grayskull, I have the power!". My father would play along and I could do anything I wanted to him for a limited number of seconds until my He-Man power wore off. That was then when cartoons were about as close to special effects as we could get. Now days we have movies like The Matrix and countless others that blur the line of reality and distort our picture of what is real and what is not. Like the picture above, if that is all I show to my children of the Statue of Liberty, that is what they will think it looks like as that is their only point of reference. Carry this mode of thinking over to the world. What picture will I give my children of the world and who will I allow to paint it for them? Will it be accurate or will it be distorted; blurring the lines of reality with fiction? What kind of picture are you allowing to be painted for your children?
Can A Law Overstep Its Bounds?
It is illegal in Illinois, Texas, Virginia and a few other states for registered sex offenders to give away candy on Halloween, to go to parties that are for kids or just simply being on the street.
In Baltimore Maryland police are giving out signs for the sex offenders to place in their yard saying that no candy is available at their homes. The police expect the sex offenders to post the signs, turn off their lights and to not answer their doors. If they don't, they are not breaking a law but accoring to the article someone will be stopping by to make sure the right thing is going on at that residence.
You can read more here.
Some questions:
-What other crimes carry state sponsored penalties after time has been served?
-Is it right to place restrictions such as these on people who have already served their time (not those on probation, but those who have served their time)?
-Can someone make you to turn your lights off and not answer the door to your own home? If you were arrested for breaking this law, do you think that it would have any standing before the higher courts?
-What are your thoughts on the issue of ongoing punishment after time is served? What about a sex offenders list that one must register for?
In Baltimore Maryland police are giving out signs for the sex offenders to place in their yard saying that no candy is available at their homes. The police expect the sex offenders to post the signs, turn off their lights and to not answer their doors. If they don't, they are not breaking a law but accoring to the article someone will be stopping by to make sure the right thing is going on at that residence.
You can read more here.
Some questions:
-What other crimes carry state sponsored penalties after time has been served?
-Is it right to place restrictions such as these on people who have already served their time (not those on probation, but those who have served their time)?
-Can someone make you to turn your lights off and not answer the door to your own home? If you were arrested for breaking this law, do you think that it would have any standing before the higher courts?
-What are your thoughts on the issue of ongoing punishment after time is served? What about a sex offenders list that one must register for?
Wednesday, October 10, 2007
The Stanford Prison Experiment
What happens when you put good people in an evil place? Does humanity win over evil, or does evil triumph?
To find out, click here.
(This is an interesting study and if you have time, I strongly encourage you to read through it.)
To find out, click here.
(This is an interesting study and if you have time, I strongly encourage you to read through it.)
Tuesday, October 9, 2007
Why The Mass Appeal?
Two girls go at it in a locker room. Somebody stands by with a camera phone and records the brawl... to post on Youtube. Now the video has thousands of views and is growing in popularity. What is the appeal? Why are we drawn to such things and "entertained by them? Rest assured the Norwood Middle School girl who suffered the beating and her family are not entertained by it.
Here is the News Clip.
Here is the raw video taken from a mobile phone.
Here is the News Clip.
Here is the raw video taken from a mobile phone.
Another Day In The Neighborhood
Tim Ellsworth has this thing about College Football ratings, Doofus Dads and a still active topic discussing what started out as abortion and has grown to include a parallel of IVF.
Oversight of Souls (Ray VanNeste) recently posted on how the public sharing of testimonies builds up the community of believers and encourages fellowship.
This Life (Susan Hunt) is finding joy with the children at church and has found a new found joy in The Office.
Coffee Refills (Kellye Rachel) has, is having, and probably will have for a long time (until she updates her blog) a stupid pc and is in a perpetual state of failing eye exams.
Sword & Trowel (Klay Aspenwall) is having identity issues: help him to decide if he should have a beard or not.
Last Row is dealing with the problem of pain and immigration issues as they relate to Mexico (seeing how their president recently had something to say about the US’s immigration issues)
Challies is currently taking God at his word
Misawa’s Musings last post contained laser beam wielding ants, a moat around his house and triceratops poo.
Please Don’t Call Me For Advice (Glenna Marshall) is reminiscing about her school days and reflecting on the children she is teaching.
Not Your Typical Negro talks of Marion Jones and her recent admission of guilt for steroid use as well as pulling the race card.
And that my friends is what is going on in the blogs I visit regularly. Take a look and enjoy.
Oversight of Souls (Ray VanNeste) recently posted on how the public sharing of testimonies builds up the community of believers and encourages fellowship.
This Life (Susan Hunt) is finding joy with the children at church and has found a new found joy in The Office.
Coffee Refills (Kellye Rachel) has, is having, and probably will have for a long time (until she updates her blog) a stupid pc and is in a perpetual state of failing eye exams.
Sword & Trowel (Klay Aspenwall) is having identity issues: help him to decide if he should have a beard or not.
Last Row is dealing with the problem of pain and immigration issues as they relate to Mexico (seeing how their president recently had something to say about the US’s immigration issues)
Challies is currently taking God at his word
Misawa’s Musings last post contained laser beam wielding ants, a moat around his house and triceratops poo.
Please Don’t Call Me For Advice (Glenna Marshall) is reminiscing about her school days and reflecting on the children she is teaching.
Not Your Typical Negro talks of Marion Jones and her recent admission of guilt for steroid use as well as pulling the race card.
And that my friends is what is going on in the blogs I visit regularly. Take a look and enjoy.
Monday, October 8, 2007
I Break For Tailgaters
Something tells me someone didn't pay attention in elementary school. I wonder if they even know?
I was traveling down a main road in our city and came across this. I thought I would share.
Bollywood With Your Subtitles
Bombay TV. A fun time waster. It takes movie clips from Bollywood movies (the biggest producer of movies annually) and allows you to add your own subtitles. Seeing how you can't understand what they are saying anyways (they speak in Hindi), you can have a lot of fun with this.
I stumbled upon this site over a year ago and we had a lot of fun with it in the office... sometimes too much fun.
So, here's the deal, you visit the site, make your own and post the link to it in the comments section. We will compare and contrast and see who came up with the funniest one.
You can start making yours here.
I stumbled upon this site over a year ago and we had a lot of fun with it in the office... sometimes too much fun.
So, here's the deal, you visit the site, make your own and post the link to it in the comments section. We will compare and contrast and see who came up with the funniest one.
You can start making yours here.
Friday, October 5, 2007
Thursday, October 4, 2007
Anything Good About Going To The Dentist?
I hate going to the dentist. I hate getting polish all over my face. I hate getting poked by a needle over 12 times because they can't seem to find the place that will numb the area they want to prevent cavities from forming on. I hate the feeling of being numb for hours after leaving the dentist even though they didn't seem to numb the spot that was supposed to be worked on. I hate leaving with grit in my mouth from the polish. I hate the way you are left in the chair with your mouth open while the attendant tells you to spit into a suction straw and that long strand of slober streams from your mouth to the end of the sucker as she pulls it away.
As you can tell there just isn't much I like about the dentist but I should be able to mark one of those things off my list. NewScientist has reported on a Chilli-based anaesthetic that only targets pain receptors as opposed to numbing your whole jaw area. That way you feel normal even when a drill is penetrating the inside of your tooth and playing ring around the rosie with your nerve.
By the way, some people can go a year or two without having to visit the dentist depending on your teeth. You should ask your dentist if you are one of those people (I am and I didn't even have to ask my dentist!)
You can read more here.
Some questions:
-Yea or nay for dental visits?
-What's the worst part of going to the dentist for you?
-What's your worst dental experience?
As you can tell there just isn't much I like about the dentist but I should be able to mark one of those things off my list. NewScientist has reported on a Chilli-based anaesthetic that only targets pain receptors as opposed to numbing your whole jaw area. That way you feel normal even when a drill is penetrating the inside of your tooth and playing ring around the rosie with your nerve.
By the way, some people can go a year or two without having to visit the dentist depending on your teeth. You should ask your dentist if you are one of those people (I am and I didn't even have to ask my dentist!)
You can read more here.
Some questions:
-Yea or nay for dental visits?
-What's the worst part of going to the dentist for you?
-What's your worst dental experience?
Women Only In The Nursery
Some churches and daycares have gone to "women only" policies where women are the only ones allowed to be alone with children. Either the news has decided to draw more attention to women committing sexual crimes with children or women are doing these acts more now than ever. Here is an example:
Michelle A. Tufts, 30, of the 2800 block of east Idaho Avenue, was arrested Monday and is charged with two felony counts of criminal sexual penetration of a child younger than 13 and one count of contributing to the delinquency of a minor.
You can read more here.
Some questions:
-Why does our society view women as less prone to commit sexual crimes?
-On average do they commit sexual crimes less than men?
-Is it a good policy to have a "woman only" or "man only" rule in regards to being with children?
-Is there a better way to be proactive about hampering such things as this?
Michelle A. Tufts, 30, of the 2800 block of east Idaho Avenue, was arrested Monday and is charged with two felony counts of criminal sexual penetration of a child younger than 13 and one count of contributing to the delinquency of a minor.
You can read more here.
Some questions:
-Why does our society view women as less prone to commit sexual crimes?
-On average do they commit sexual crimes less than men?
-Is it a good policy to have a "woman only" or "man only" rule in regards to being with children?
-Is there a better way to be proactive about hampering such things as this?
Wednesday, October 3, 2007
Einstein: Good With Physics, Bad With Marriage
Challies wrote on a wedding he recently attended in which the pastor quoted the below during the wedding ceremony. I added it to the sidebar but thought it worth highlighting here.
With his marriage disintegrating and already participating in extra-marital affairs, Einstein made a last-ditch effort to keep his marriage somewhat intact, even if only for the sake of the children. This is the contract he sent to his wife:
A. You will make sure that my clothes and laundry are kept in good order; that I will receive my three meals regularly in my room; that my bedroom and study are kept neat, and especially that my desk is left for my use only.
B. You will renounce all personal relations with me insofar as they are not completely necessary for social reasons. Specifically, you will forego my sitting at home with you;
my going out of traveling with you.
C. You will obey the following points in your relations with me: you will not expect any intimacy from me, nor will you reproach me in any way; you will stop talking to me if I request it; you will leave my bedroom or study immediately without protest if I request it.
D. You will undertake not to belittle me in front of our children, either through words or behavior.
You can read more here.
Some questions:
-What of this man who was a genius in some regards but resorted to a miserable disdain towards his wife?
-How does one keep from cultivating such disdain in one's heart?
-His wife eventually agreed to the contract; why do you think she agreed?
-How should a believing Christian handle such a contract if it is handed to them by their spouse?
With his marriage disintegrating and already participating in extra-marital affairs, Einstein made a last-ditch effort to keep his marriage somewhat intact, even if only for the sake of the children. This is the contract he sent to his wife:
A. You will make sure that my clothes and laundry are kept in good order; that I will receive my three meals regularly in my room; that my bedroom and study are kept neat, and especially that my desk is left for my use only.
B. You will renounce all personal relations with me insofar as they are not completely necessary for social reasons. Specifically, you will forego my sitting at home with you;
my going out of traveling with you.
C. You will obey the following points in your relations with me: you will not expect any intimacy from me, nor will you reproach me in any way; you will stop talking to me if I request it; you will leave my bedroom or study immediately without protest if I request it.
D. You will undertake not to belittle me in front of our children, either through words or behavior.
You can read more here.
Some questions:
-What of this man who was a genius in some regards but resorted to a miserable disdain towards his wife?
-How does one keep from cultivating such disdain in one's heart?
-His wife eventually agreed to the contract; why do you think she agreed?
-How should a believing Christian handle such a contract if it is handed to them by their spouse?
Capitalism: A Double Edged Sword
Capitalism not only builds the economy by promoting competition and hard work, but it also allows a potential enemy access to key infrastructure. A former military officer of the PLA (The People's Liberation Army) of China started a business dealing with military communication networks back in 1988 and called it Huawei. Huawei has been linked with the oil for food scandal under Saddam Hussien as well as the Taliban and a Pentagon official said they are "up to their eye balls with the Chinese Military". Today, a potential merger has been announced between 3Com and Huawei. 3Com is a network manufacturer based out of Massachusetts who has contracts with the Department of Defense (DOD). Several military officials have expressed concern concerning the potential merger.
You can read more here.
Some questions:
-What do you do with a situation like this in a capitalistic society?
-Can/should the government step in to keep a merger from happening that would allow enemies of the state access to key DOD technologies?
-Should you take the bad with the good under a capitalsitic society?
-Does this fall under the "law" of political correctness?
You can read more here.
Some questions:
-What do you do with a situation like this in a capitalistic society?
-Can/should the government step in to keep a merger from happening that would allow enemies of the state access to key DOD technologies?
-Should you take the bad with the good under a capitalsitic society?
-Does this fall under the "law" of political correctness?
Tuesday, October 2, 2007
I'm Offended
A school district (Ridgeland School District 122 ) is looking to rename or cancel the Christmas festival due to a Muslim parent raising an issue of offense with the celebration as well as the Halloween holiday.
You can read more here.
Some questions:
-What about offending the Christians by their potential act?-Does offensiveness go both ways?
-Should schools even celebrate (acknowledge) any holidays?
Monday, October 1, 2007
What Of Scripture?
...the announcement by the Anglican Church's highest legal authority that there is nothing in the church's constitution that would prevent the consecration of a woman priest as a bishop in Australia is a milestone in the history of the church and one that removes the last impediment to full equality for women within it.
Clearing the way for female bishops is the logical extension of the decision 15 years ago to allow female priests; it reflects the realities of the century we live in, not anachronisms from centuries past.
You can read more here.
Some questions:
-How does scritpure speak to this situation?
-Should a Church's constitution supercede scripture?
-What is the contention that splits churches on this issue?
Clearing the way for female bishops is the logical extension of the decision 15 years ago to allow female priests; it reflects the realities of the century we live in, not anachronisms from centuries past.
You can read more here.
Some questions:
-How does scritpure speak to this situation?
-Should a Church's constitution supercede scripture?
-What is the contention that splits churches on this issue?
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