Still Learning

Speaking in Defense of Science Faith

2011-02-15T19:25:00.000-08:00

The Bible and Science The problem I see in the debate between "Science" and "Faith" is that, while pundits and talking-heads yell back and forth across the TV screen, and men with phD's behind their name out-reference their opponents, the bottom-line issue that should help clarify the whole discussion, becomes obscured. As a result, whenever I read opinion pieces, like this recent blog post at

Born This Way? Sure!

2011-02-05T15:12:00.000-08:00

As I was sorting through my RSS feeds this morning, I came across this story from NPR: "Born Gay, Born This Way: A Photo Blog". The news story is about this blog - BornThisWayBlog.com - and its purpose is quite simple: to give a platform for homosexual men and women to tell their own stories of realizing they were homosexual from birth. From the "About" page: "A photo/essay project for gay adults

Peter the Racist and Ongoing Sin

2011-02-05T02:12:00.000-08:00

No room for you! This past Wednesday, at the LCBC Small Group in San Francisco, we looked at Acts 10 and the conversion of Cornelius. What is interesting about this passage of Scripture, and perhaps often overlooked, is that fact that Peter here is prejudiced against Gentiles. After meeting Cornelius for the first time, Peter says this: "You yourselves know how unlawful it is for a Jew to

Thoughts on Human Love and Service to Christ

2011-01-25T21:52:00.000-08:00

Sorry kitty, maybe later? Whenever I'm sorely disappointed, let down, or heart broken, I tend to enter into a depression. As Christ has been sanctifying me since 2006, these times of depression have slowly changed such that, they become times of clarity for me instead of abject sadness. Through prayer, the Scriptures, godly counsel, and gospel sermons, I refocus on Christ, and I'm reminded of

How Do I Know that God is Real and that He Loves Me?

2011-01-21T00:16:00.000-08:00

This last Wednesday, the LCBC S.F. Small Group discussed Genesis 15. First, we studied a devotional drawn out from this passage from Oswald Chambers' My Upmost For His Highest, then from the Scriptures themselves. The discussion was good, yet I was especially intrigued by these two questions: How do I know that God is real; and, how do I know God loves me? What intrigued me about these

I Think I Change My Mind....

2011-01-18T22:39:00.000-08:00

So I was in the shower this evening, contemplating my beliefs about God. (On a side note: I do a lot of thinking in the shower. It's one of the few places where I won't bothered!) While I was thinking about why I believe God exists, and why the God the Bible tells us about, is the true and living God, I realized that maybe I made a mistake in shutting down this blog. Nearly one year ago, I '

Sermon - "Law-Sin-Grace" - Romans 3:9-26

2011-01-16T20:53:00.000-08:00

Originally preached November 28, 2010. About 24 minutes long. Manuscript available here.

Sermon - "Divine Deliverance" - Zechariah 3:1-10

2011-01-16T19:36:00.000-08:00

Final Post - Closed Blog

2010-01-08T17:33:00.000-08:00

Just to make this official: I will no longer be posting blog entries here. Considering that my last blog post was two years ago(!), and I have not had the sufficient motivation to update this blog in the meantime, I think that I should finally put this animal to sleep. It was good while it lasted, but for now, I think I'll stick to posting my random thoughts on Facebook. Smart people will be able

Word of Encouragement - #3

2009-02-25T21:24:00.000-08:00

Originally written 12/10/2008 Today is hump day, and I'm listening to a sermon on Philippians 3. The first eleven verses are quoted below."Finally, my brothers, rejoice in the Lord. To write the same things to you is no trouble to me and is safe for you. Look out for the dogs, look out for the evildoers, look out for those who mutilate the flesh. For we are the circumcision, who worship by the

Word of Encouragement - #2

2009-02-18T22:03:00.000-08:00

Originally written 12/01/2008 Hello Brothers and Sisters in Christ, May the God of peace pour out his blessings upon you as he did his only Son, into whom we are being conformed. It is an interesting experience being sick. Not that I enjoy the stuffy nose, the cough, the sore throat, and all the rest of the ills that come with being sick; not at all. What I do find interesting is how despite

Word of Encouragement - #1

2009-02-11T21:17:00.001-08:00

I send out these weekly emails to those in my Sunday School class called "Word of Encouragement." These aren't typical "let's learn these five things from this text" devotionals. I (attempt to) discuss a passage of Scripture and how it relates to us and the world around us. Comments and thoughts on these are appreciated. Originally written 11/24/2008 While contemplating the election of Barak

Degrees of Righteousness?

2009-01-09T17:50:00.000-08:00

There is an interesting, ongoing discussion at my friend Mark Adams' blog. Mark, myself, and someone named "Mike" are going back and forth on whether or not the Scriptures teach "practical" righteousness, which Mike believes determines our entrance into the Kingdom of God, and "positional" righteousness, which determines our eternal standing before God. Check it out in the comments section. [

Universal Atonement in Hebrews 2:9?

2009-01-07T22:04:00.000-08:00

Dr. James White discussing the idea that Hebrews 2:9 justifies the belief that Christ died for everybody (source): [End Post]

Finally!

2008-12-16T09:06:00.000-08:00

Finally: scientific evidence shows that romantic-comedies are destructive for relationships. (Source) The university's Dr Bjarne Holmes said: "Marriage counsellors often see couples who believe that sex should always be perfect, and if someone is meant to be with you then they will know what you want without you needing to communicate it. "We now have some emerging evidence that suggests popular

Antoine Dufour - Mother

2008-12-10T13:12:00.001-08:00

I love this song by Antoine Dufour. It's so mellow and unassuming, especially with that bass note in the latter half of the song. Listen and enjoy! [End Post]

Suffering For Christ

2008-11-25T17:40:00.000-08:00

You, however, have followed my teaching, my conduct, my aim in life, my faith, my patience, my love, my steadfastness, my persecutions and sufferings that happened to me at Antioch, at Iconium, and at Lystra—which persecutions I endured; yet from them all the Lord rescued me. Indeed, all who desire to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted, while evil people and impostors will go on

Online Suicide

2008-11-21T10:30:00.000-08:00

From ABC News: [Source]A Florida teenager who used a webcam to live-stream his suicide Wednesday was reportedly encouraged by other people on the Web site, authorities told ABCNews.com. "People were egging him on and saying things like 'go ahead and do it, faggot,' said Wendy Crane, an investigator at the Broward County Medical Examiner's office. Abraham Biggs, 19, of Pembroke Pines, Fla., had

2008-11-19T19:12:00.000-08:00

But understand this, that in the last days there will come times of difficulty. For people will be lovers of self, lovers of money, proud, arrogant, abusive, disobedient to their parents, ungrateful, unholy, heartless, unappeasable, slanderous, without self-control, brutal, not loving good, treacherous, reckless, swollen with conceit, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God, having the

A Conversation with Paul Washer

2008-11-07T11:45:00.001-08:00

In the first seven minutes of the video, Paul Washer reveals some of his background. I find it interesting that he himself was one who had a false profession of faith as a result of thinking a prayer saved him. (I think this also explains a bit on his bad attitude toward the Four Spiritual Laws, et al.) [End Post]

Dr. James White and the 2008 Election

2008-11-05T21:52:00.000-08:00

Some timely words from Dr. James White. [End Post]

Not that Related to Theology....

2008-11-03T19:28:00.000-08:00

OK, so this story has nothing to do with theology, my personal spiritual crisis', or anything like that. I merely become giddy when I see Star Trek-like technology being investigated in the real world. (Ever wonder why my internet handle is "Enterprise"? Now you know.) In this case: shields. From the BBC: [Source]Future astronauts could benefit from a magnetic "umbrella" that deflects harmful

Sex on TV Linked to Teen Pregnancies

2008-11-03T07:34:00.000-08:00

From MSNBC:In the world of television programming, sex sells — perhaps a little too well with young viewers, a new study suggests. The RAND Corp. study is the first of its kind to identify a link between teenagers’ exposure to sexual content on TV and teen pregnancies. The study, released Monday and published in the November edition of the journal Pediatrics, found that teens exposed to high

Ten Indictments {A Historical 21st Century Message by Paul Washer

2008-11-02T20:29:00.001-08:00

As I listened to this message, I realized that many of the things he talked about regarding young men were true - in some sense or another - about me. This is a wake up call to me, let me tell you. However, let the evidence of my conviction stand on whether or not my life actually changes. If my life becomes more disciplined for Christ, then praise the Lord. If after awhile, my conviction wears

Continued Persecution in India

2008-10-31T07:35:00.000-07:00

From Voice of the Martyrs:INDIA – Update: Homes Burned; Relief Camps Closure Planned in Orissa – VOM Sources On October 19, Hindu extremists burned several homes belonging to Christians in Kandhamal district, Orissa VOM sources reported. Despite the government’s claim that the state is “returning to normal,” reports of extremists burning homes, raiding hospitals and stealing animals belonging to

Joel Osteen and Self-Esteem According to Paul Washer

2008-10-28T17:03:00.001-07:00

(The audio is a bit off from the video, so please be patient as you watch this nearly seven-minute video.)

Paul Washer and Evangelism

2008-10-24T17:58:00.001-07:00

In the last several months, I have become a fan of Paul Washer. His Spirit-filled messages, his candor and honesty in preaching the gospel no matter the consequences is astounding to me, and I can only hope to be as empowered as him. May I be as passionate and truthful in evangelism as Paul the Apostle when he said, "For I long to see you, that I may impart to you some spiritual gift to

Does God Predestine Some Men to Hell? (Double Predestination)

2008-10-18T11:17:00.001-07:00

An excellent explanation of double predestination by Mark Kielar. Talking about these things can be difficult, since we're talking about God *not* saving people, and these people going to hell in the final judgment. I must affirm, however, with Mark that the doors of hell - as it were - are locked from the inside because people will always hate God and run away from him when left to themselves.

"All" Doesn't Always Mean "All"

2008-10-15T07:30:00.000-07:00

Another beautiful article from Reformation Theology explaining that context is everything in understanding so-called Arminian texts....John 12:27-33 "Now My soul has become troubled; and what shall I say, 'Father, save Me from this hour '? But for this purpose I came to this hour. "Father, glorify Your name." Then a voice came out of heaven: "I have both glorified it, and will glorify it again."

High Finance DOES Affect Life and Death

2008-10-07T20:44:00.000-07:00

In the Great Depression, it was men jumping out of windows after loosing all their money. In today's world, it's men murdering their family in addition to themselves to escape their problems. This is yet another sad example of why placing our hope in finite and fallible things and people will only bring disappointment and sadness. Place your hope in Christ - the infinite and infallible One - who

Is Unbelief Sin, Non-Calvinist?

2008-10-07T19:55:00.001-07:00

I love the presentation of the truth in this video. Please watch. [End Post]

The Slippery Slope of Sin

2008-10-06T21:23:00.000-07:00

For a good look into the slippery slope of sin in a believers life, please read this blog post from this awesome young Christian woman in Florida. She discusses her recent revelation of sin in her life. She might as well have been talking about me....[End Post]

Revelation

2008-10-05T23:33:00.000-07:00

There comes a point in a man's life when childish things must be put away. The things that separate a boy from a man can include many things: lack of experience, little practical knowledge, and irresponsibility. Yet I would suggest that all of those things can be wrapped up into one phrase: knowing who you are and your reason for existence. I know, they're questions everybody asks themselves: Why

"If you do not forgive...."

2008-09-26T07:26:00.000-07:00

Here is an amazing devotional on forgiveness by Os Hillman. I know for myself, I carry quite a bit of resentment against my dad and others for various reasons. I need to learn to forgive them and move past their faults into a closer relationship with Christ, and hopefully some sort of reconciliation with those I've felt resentment toward.Forgiveness Ensures Freedom TGIF Today God Is First Volume

More Persecution in India

2008-09-19T07:30:00.000-07:00

UPDATE: From Voice of the Martyrs INDIA – Orissa Attacks Expand Across India – VOM Sources The violence against Christians in Orissa State has continued following the assassination of Swami Laxmanananda Sarawati on August 23. VOM sources report the death toll of Christians has reached 42. Meanwhile relief camps in Orissa have been targeted by extremists attempting to poison water supplies. Six

Jesus Came to Save Sinners

2008-09-16T11:05:00.000-07:00

As the Spirit of Christ is convicting my heart for various sins in these last few weeks, I am searching - praying - for divine mercy and strength to overcome the evil I allowed to build up in my heart and mind. To that end, in reading Paul's first canonical letter to Timothy, I 'discovered' this passage of Scripture with which I almost immediately identified. I reprint it here for the benefit of

Love Never Fails

2008-09-15T12:36:00.000-07:00

As I read James MacDonald's latest email devotional (reprinted below), I couldn't help but think of my sister. She has a difficult life: she was born with Fetal Alcohol Syndrome, so suffers a learning disability and some psychological problems; she was molested by our neighbor 10+ years ago; and she became pregnant at age 15, giving birth to a boy. As a tween and teenager, she was wild - (on rare

Textual Crititcism

2008-09-11T17:56:00.000-07:00

Michael Patton posted an informative article on textual criticism at Parchment and Pen. Here is a snippet:This is where the discipline of “textual criticism” comes in. Don’t be afraid of the word “criticism” in relation to the Bible. Textual criticism is the art and science of reconstructing the original text of the Scripture. A “text critic” is one who examines the available evidence, making

God's Chemo For My Cancered Soul

2008-09-07T02:45:00.000-07:00

From Christianity Today. May this short article by J. I. Packer be a blessing to you as it is to me.God's Chemo for My Cancered SoulPuritan theologian John Owen diagnosed the disease of sin and pointed to the cure.J. I. PackerThey called it the Victorious Spirit-filled life. You got into it, they said, by total surrender to Jesus Christ (they assumed no one does this at conversion), and then

Conviction

2008-09-06T23:19:00.000-07:00

The Lord is doing a work in my heart. I'm not sure how all this will turn out, but all I know is this: two weeks of serving (again, praise the Lord) at Bible camp softened my heart and convicted me of sin in a way I didn't expect. Three days at my church's retreat reintroduced me to sin-issues I haven't faced in years. There is a growing sense of hatred dwelling within me...I'm not sure how to

Purpose Driven....

2008-09-02T23:00:00.000-07:00

This previous weekend (Labor Day weekend), my church had our yearly church-wide retreat. The purpose of this years retreat was for the pastoral leadership to unveil their vision for the church: to adapt Rick Warren's Purpose-Driven Church model for our use.First, I would like to say that the retreat was restful for all those that went, including myself. Many important discussions occurred that I

More History?

2008-08-29T08:00:00.000-07:00

So...we have the first African-American nominee for president - Barak Obama. Will we now have the first female vice-presidential nominee? From the BBC Source US Republican presidential hopeful John McCain has picked Sarah Palin, the female governor of Alaska, as his surprise running mate. At 44, she is younger than Barack Obama and is credited with reforms during her first term, but she is

JJ Heller

2008-08-24T22:36:00.000-07:00

Check out JJ Heller. I heard her for the first time at Mountain Bible Church's "Rock on the Mount" this last Saturday. She is an incredibly talented artist. [End Post]

Vandalism

2008-07-02T20:02:00.000-07:00

My cell phone was dead for most of the day today, so it wasn't until close to 5:00pm that I finally listened to my voice mail. A deacon from my church called to let me know that the church was vandalized. Specifically, the unit that regulates the water that feeds the church property was stolen. Somebody shut the water off at the street level, then took a hacksaw to the copper pipes and took the

Confusing News

2008-06-23T18:48:00.000-07:00

I found out a few hours ago that my father remarried on June 21 in a wedding chapel in Reno, NV, to a woman he's known since he was a child. Right now, I'm not sure what to feel about this: happy? sad? disappointed?My (adoptive) mother died two years ago on the night of February 15. They were married close to thirty years. She was well loved in the family, so naturally her death was sorely

Thoughts on Homosexual Marriage

2008-06-20T09:13:00.000-07:00

Recently in my state, California, the State Court reversed the state's ban on homosexual marriage. The Court's decision took effect this week, with hundreds of homosexual couples from with-in and with-out the state flooding county clerk offices requesting marriage licenses. As one who calls himself a follower of Jesus Christ, I am quite saddened by these recent events. I am not, however,

Anglican Split

2008-06-19T15:27:00.000-07:00

It appears that the Anglican Church in Africa is splitting from the Anglican Communion over the acceptance of homosexual pastors and marriages in the United States and Canada. I do not agree with certain doctrines taught within the Anglican Communion. However, at least they respect the gospel enough to declare that accepting homosexuality as something good and normal is tantamount to denying our

Sad Story on Father's Day

2008-06-19T15:05:00.000-07:00

This is one of the most sickening stories I've read in recent times. The headline reads: Toddler stomped to death in Stanislaus County. I pray for that toddler's soul; may he finally be at peace in the Lord.UPDATE: It will be at least four weeks before toxicology reports are back on the man who beat his toddler son to death this past weekend in Turlock, CA. According to friends and family,

SBC Problems

2008-06-19T14:56:00.000-07:00

Seems like the Southern Baptist Convention is having some membership problems. In their most recent meeting, it was determined that memberships and baptisms are down in the last several years.Honestly, I'm not sure if that's necessarily a bad thing. The issue for me is this: are those who are in SBC churches being discipled into God-fearing Christians? Currently, I attend a SBC church, and our

Don't Call Me Mr Obvious....

2008-06-16T21:05:00.000-07:00

Once again, science proves the obvious: The brains of gay men and women look like those found in straight people of the opposite sex, research suggests.[End Post]

First Century Christian Church Discovered in Jordan

2008-06-11T14:17:00.000-07:00

Archeologists in working in Rihab, Jordan may have discovered the earliest Christian church on record, which they date between AD 33 and 70.[End Post]

The Theology Program

2008-05-22T07:15:00.000-07:00

I would highly suggest that, for anyone wanting a fresh look at how to do theology, you look at Reclaiming the Mind Ministry's Theology Program. I self-studied through all six courses, and participated in their online course for Introduction to Theology. Check out their Bible.org page, and even see if there is a church near you where they offer onsite courses.The Program's primary focus is to

The Gospel Message - A Primer for New Fundamentalism

2008-05-13T11:28:00.001-07:00

Below is an article I posted at NewFundamentalism.com. My good friend Mark Adams, at Agabus.com, created a new Christian forum for the purpose of irenic discussion between the various Christian traditions. We're still in the building stage. However, here is my primer on the gospel for New Fundamentalism. Comments here or on the forum post are welcome.The Gospel Message - A Primer for New

State-Issued Deconversion

2008-05-09T11:30:00.000-07:00

From the BBC (source story here): A Malaysian woman is allowed to renounce her faith in Islam and return to Buddhism.Apparently, this is big news in that part of the world, where Muslims of the more radical sort will severely persecute anybody who is - well - not Muslim. In fact, if I read the BBC story correctly, it's generally illegal for a Muslim to leave the faith. I can understand why this

Christian Persecution

2008-04-29T18:01:00.000-07:00

The BBC is reporting that various Christian churches in Indonesia are resorting to meeting in malls because of Muslim intimidation. For a local church to hold religious services, they need an approved permit - which requires at least 90 signatures of their non-Christian neighbors. If such a legal permit is not possessed by a local church, the local Islamic rights group issues a warning, then

I'm Still Alive

2008-04-18T20:26:00.000-07:00

It's been quite some time since I last posted an entry. I'm still alive :-)In these last several weeks, I have experience several relatively minor trials - which the Lord graciously allowed - where I am examining myself in different areas. For example, I am becoming more aware of how I'm acting ungodly at work, specifically with my co-worker (I only work with one other person). More consistently,

Back from Vacation

2008-04-02T18:46:00.000-07:00

Check out my Picasa Photo Albums - I uploaded pictures from my recent vacation to San Simeon State Park and Hearst Castle.http://picasaweb.google.com/picard2380[end]

Alone

2008-03-10T17:08:00.000-07:00

One of the aspects of life that I fear most is abandonment - not the "everybody has died and now I'm alone" type of abandonment, but that type of abandonment that says "nobody really cares about you anyway, so it's only a matter of time before they leave you" type of abandonment. I always seem to have this fear in me that no one actually loves me, that no one actually cares about me.I know that

Birthday Blues

2008-03-04T21:51:00.001-08:00

Yeah...today is my birthday. I'm the twenty-five-year-old son to parents I don't even know. According to my birth record, they lived on Cherry Street in Hayward. I don't know their name; I don't even know if they're alive, or if I have any brothers or sisters. I'm unknown to them, and they're unknown to me. Sometimes - especially on days like these - I'd just as soon be unknown to everybody.I

Concerns at My Home Church

2008-02-22T11:15:00.000-08:00

I first want to say that my church is a fine church. Of course, no church organization is perfect; and neither is my church. Our English Service is young and still trying to find our place in the church as a whole and in the neighborhood. I believe we're also trying to find our place, as it were, theologically. Personally, my biblical theology runs more akin to Presbyterianism than Baptist

Recovery

2008-02-15T16:27:00.000-08:00

"The Lord is good, and blessed be his name forevermore for his mighty acts of divine deliverance." - AnonymousOK, OK...so I'm just quoting myself there; so sue me! :PAnyway, after a lot of private prayer and fellowship with my fellow brothers in Christ at my men's group last night, emotionally and spiritually I'm feeling better today. No, not merely feeling "better", but feeling "blessed". It's

Saint Valentine's Day

2008-02-14T09:03:00.000-08:00

Today is Saint Valentine's Day: a day for love and frolicking amongst the daisy's with your life's partner in hand. I actually liked this holiday; however in recent years, it has become associated with pain and suffering, with death and loss. I don't like this time of the year so much anymore....On February 15, 2006, God finally took my mother home by use of liver cancer. It was a Wednesday and

Love, Part 2

2008-02-11T17:03:00.001-08:00

I like James McDonald. He's not Presbyterian, and I'm fairly sure he's not Covenantal in his theology. However, despite those differences, his "tell it like it is with love" attitude toward preaching the Gospel and God's word is inspiring, to say the least. His weekly devotionals always seem to strike at the heart of whatever is going on in my life, like this week's devotional entitled, "When

Prayer

2008-02-11T15:18:00.000-08:00

Before last night, the last time I wept in prayer was probably 18 months ago; although, there may have been one or two times since then that I'm not recalling right now. Among other things, I asked God to forgive me for my recent bout of depression; I praised God for his willingness to love me and to take care of me; and I recalled God's promise to take care of his children ("If he clothes the

Sorrow

2008-02-09T15:27:00.000-08:00

Oh Lord, keep me from wallowing in my own misery.My mind is filled with thoughts of me being an utter failure at, well, just about everything in life. I know I shouldn't compare myself with other people; but when a girl goes on about those qualities she finds attractive in a potential husband and few, if any at all, are found in me, then where am I? Not intelligent enough, not smart enough, not

Love

2008-01-28T16:28:00.000-08:00

Another insightful and convicting message from James MacDonald at WalkInTheWord.com. View The Weekly Walk here.Healing Family HurtsLove is patient and kind; love does not envy or boast; it is not arrogant or rude. It does not insist on its own way; it is not irritable or resentful; it does not rejoice at wrongdoing, but rejoices with the truth. Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes

School Begins

2008-01-24T17:17:00.000-08:00

This previous week, I followed through in enrolling into Trinity College of the Bible and Seminary. My initial Registration is for five courses: Trinity Tutorial (no credits earned), Bible Study Methods, Survey of the Old Testament, Survey of the New Testament, and Bible Doctrine I. Currently, I'm tackling (BS 401) Bible Study Methods and (OT 430) Survey of the Old Testament. According to my

The Joy of Forgiveness

2008-01-23T15:25:00.000-08:00

Forgiveness is a freeing and burden-lifting concept.I realized a few days ago that I may have crossed a line with a friend of mine, being, perhaps, too nosy into some business that was none of my business. While we conversed about these things, I was reminded of how my various other friends have forgiven me for all the crap I've done to them, both things directly and indirectly. Tears came to my

OK...Maybe I Just Need to Relax a Bit

2008-01-21T17:02:00.000-08:00

My anxiety over the future can be bad at times. Here is part of a devotional from Walk in the Word that convicted me and set my mind to thinking about more godly things."Stick With Today" by James MacDonald...How often do you wake up in the middle of the night with burdens on your heart that keep you from going back to sleep?It happened to me last night. The clock said, 4:10 a.m. and I was wide

Thoughts of Suicide

2008-01-21T14:52:00.000-08:00

No, I'm not currently thinking about killing myself. Although in the past several years, I have experienced overwhelming thoughts about death and how everybody in my life would be better off if I weren't around anymore. Sometimes I still think that way, however God's grace through the comfort of Spirit-filled friends usually alleviates that form of anxiety. I recently skipped over to Parchment

A New Day

2008-01-21T11:10:00.000-08:00

Today, January 21st, 2008, is a new day.OK, so I haven't had any new revelations; however, I realize that each day my Lord gives me on this wicked earth is one more day he has approved for me to grow more into his righteousness. At the time of this writing, it's 10:31 a.m.; the weather outside is overcast and rainy; and I have no need to go to work today. Even though I'm quite comfortable lying

"...a most miserable one."

2008-01-20T01:00:00.000-08:00

I just got back from spending time with some other brothers and sisters in Christ. We had a wonderful time playing games, eating delicious Chinese food, and playing table-top tennis. Near the end, of the evening, though, I became especially melancholy. My mind was filled with thoughts of how inadequate (as a godly man) I am, among other things. I'm in the valley deep, and honestly, I'd be happy

The Mortification of Sin

2008-01-14T20:28:00.000-08:00

I recently purchased a compilation of John Owen's works called, "Overcoming Sin and Temptation", edited by Kelly Kapic and Justin Taylor. There is a link on the left sidebar to the publisher's website for this book. This compilation includes three of Owen's works: "Of the Mortification of Sin in Believers" (1656), "Of Temptation, the Nature and Power of It" (1658), and "The Nature, Power, Deceit,

Plans for this Year

2008-01-12T18:27:00.000-08:00

I'm anticipating a few relatively big things happening this year. Obviously, God can do whatever he pleases; however, God's control of good and evil in the world doesn't preclude me from making plans and preparing for the future. People are responsible for the life God has given us.This year, I plan to move out of my dad's house and into an apartment with my best friend Marcos. Finding a place in

Worldliness

2008-01-03T17:00:00.000-08:00

I just read the best quote concerning 'worldliness' I have ever read."Worldliness is departing from God. It is a man-centered way of thinking; it proposes objectives which demand no radical breach with man's fallen nature; it judges the importance of things by the present and material results; it weighs success by numbers; it covets human esteem and wants no unpopularity; it knows no truth for

Vivid Dreams

2008-01-03T08:13:00.000-08:00

I woke up this morning at 02:30am tossing, turning, and crying. In my dream early this morning, I saw my mother sitting in her usual chair in the kitchen. For some reason, I suffered from deep cuts - almost like severe scratches - on either side of my body and my back, down to my butt. The cuts weren't painful, yet I knew that they would begin to hurt soon enough. It seemed like they were

New Year's Day Revelation

2008-01-01T02:31:00.000-08:00

Everybody always hopes that the coming of a new year will bring change into their lives. I always hear people say that next year, things will be different. I'm going to do this different, and I'll be this kind of person, et al. I have the same inclinations to think and say those same things, and it sickens me. Don't people realize that year after year, they say the same things over and over again

New Year Resolutions

2007-12-30T23:16:00.001-08:00

OK, I'm not one who normally makes New Year resolutions. However today, Pastor Derek Tjoe (of Life Change Baptist Church, my home church) gave the congregation the task of writting down some personal New Year resolutions. Actually, he had us write two copies: one for ourselves, and the other sealed in an envelope that he'll mail out six months from now.This afternoon, he preached from James 4:13-

Bed Sheets and the Spirit

2007-12-29T00:53:00.000-08:00

As I changed my bed sheets tonight, I was reminded of Christ's Spirit. I know - weird association. Let me explain:The new sheets are washed clean, smelling freshing and as if they were unused. The sheets I removed from my bed are soiled, dirty, and quite filthy. Replacing the unclean sheets with the clean sheets was desperately needed, and if I were married, my wife would have replaced them a

Follow Up

2007-12-29T00:29:00.000-08:00

I've returned from my trip to Orange County. Here is the update:I begged my friend for forgiveness, and she did forgive me. Praise the Lord! I have to say that forgiveness is an awesome thing; I shed tears merely thinking about how much evil I've committed and yet, I'm forgiven of them. I must live with the consequences of my actions (like an immoral person living with a sexually transmitted

Forgiveness

2007-12-20T11:43:00.001-08:00

I need the confirmation of forgiveness from two entities: my two best friends and the family I hurt so long ago. On Tuesday, I confronted my one friend, asking forgiveness for my selfish and childish behavior. He forgave me and in that, God lifted a load of guilt off my soul. This coming week, I will be visiting my other friend in Anaheim. I will beg her forgiveness as well. God help me as I

A Must Hear Sermon!

2007-12-19T18:02:00.000-08:00

Paul Washer is my newest *favorite* pastor. If you want to know why, watch this 55-minute talk he did at a youth conference in Montgomery, AL in 2002.

Addendum

2007-12-17T14:20:00.001-08:00

To add one more thing to my last post: I need the confirmation of forgiveness from those I've hurt. God forbid they die before reconciliation is made....

Memories....

2007-12-17T12:00:00.000-08:00

Memories are awesome gifts from God. He so graciously allows us to remember our past, to see all that we've done, said, and thought in our lives, and to some extent, relive them. Another gracious gift from God is his limiting our memories only to the individual. Only "I" can remember my memories. Memories tell us of the evil we've done; they tell us of the good we've done just the same.Today, I

"My Desire"

2007-12-09T20:23:00.000-08:00

I wrote my first song earlier last week. After several days of refining and nailing down the lyrics, I'll post it here. I'm still figuring out ways of recording myself, and as soon as I do, I'll find a way to upload a MP3 of this song. In the mean time, enjoy the lyrics."My Desire" by Michael WallingI'm living in the light of the world,It's beauty is pristine.I love it here, and they love me;Hope

Why I love Caedmon's Call?

2007-11-30T10:28:00.000-08:00

Today, I discovered that one of Caedmon's Call's former songwriters has his own website, found here at www.Aaron-Tate.net. He wrote most of the songs I especially love and express my own feelings about life and love, including (but not limited to) Potiphar's Door, This World, Home, Coming Home, There You Go, Where I Began, and 40 Acres.There are many things I can say about this band and how their

The Sympathy of Christ

2007-11-03T00:49:00.000-07:00

“4:14 Therefore since we have a great high priest who has passed through the heavens, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold fast to our confession. 4:15 For we do not have a high priest incapable of sympathizing with our weaknesses, but one who has been tempted in every way just as we are, yet without sin. 4:16 Therefore let us confidently approach the throne of grace to receive mercy and find grace

Another Test

2007-11-01T14:58:00.000-07:00

Over at Pen and Parchment, C. Michael Patton posted an "Essentials for Christianity" test. The rules are:"I am going to give a list of doctrinal issues. I want you all to rank them 1-6. Think hard about them. In your answer, give your tradition to which you identify most (e.g. Evangelical, Baptist, Brethern, Catholic, Orthodox, etc.). This way we can test the unity and diversity of those who call

Earthquake in the City

2007-10-31T07:55:00.000-07:00

It's very interesting, this whole earthquake business. They're unique among natural disasters because you can't predict them. Unlike weather-related events, it's impossible to foresee when an earthquake will erupt. I can only imagine what the ancient peoples must have thought about earthquakes - shaking that seems to come from no where and beginning for no apparent reason.In the San Francisco Bay

Still Learning - Eschatology Quiz

2007-10-30T08:26:00.001-07:00

What's your eschatology?created with QuizFarm.com You scored as AmillenialistAmillenialism believes that the 1000 year reign is not literal but figurative, and that Christ began to reign at his ascension. People take some prophetic scripture far too literally in your view. Amillenialist 90%Preterist 75%Moltmannian Eschatology 60%Premillenialist 50%

The Love of the Prosperity Message

2007-10-25T10:23:00.001-07:00

"5:10 The one who loves money will never be satisfied with money,he who loves wealth will never be satisfied with his income.This also is futile.5:11 When someone’s prosperity increases, those who consume it also increase;so what does its owner gain, except that he gets to see it with his eyes?5:12 The sleep of the laborer is pleasant – whether he eats little or much –but the wealth of the rich

Down for the Count

2007-10-23T22:24:00.000-07:00

I'm bloodied, bruised, and beaten.Pray that I rest in ChristGod help me!

Baptism - Paedo or Credo?

2007-10-19T14:19:00.000-07:00

I've been listening to a program called Converse with Scholars over at Reclaiming the Mind Ministries. (As a side note, I'm a student in the Introduction to Theology Course.) The specific podcast I've listened to is a two-part series on baptism.Last year, they had Gregg Strawbridge (pastor of All Saint's Presbyterian Church in Akron, PA) on discussing and defending Paedobaptism (which is the

Future Blog Topics

2007-10-05T22:30:00.000-07:00

Some future blog topics I'll writing on:The Supremacy of Christ: Christ is supreme, above all creation. Before the incarnation, was he not supreme all ready? I mean, what's the deal - he's God! Supremacy comes with the job.The Sympathy of Christ: How is it that Christ can sympathize with humanity? Sure, he was born into a human body, but how bad can it really be being God and not being able to

Sick

2007-10-04T11:03:00.001-07:00

So as life would have it, I'm full fledged sick with the cold. My usual pattern usually begins with a couple weeks of feeling crummy. Then, I have two days of bad to severe sore throat. When the soar throat ends, I have several days of body aches and increased mucus production, plus a minor cough. The cough will come an go all winter, and usually go away by the middle of spring. Year after year

Music for the Struggling Soul

2007-10-03T13:50:00.000-07:00

I have to say, I really like Caedmon's Call. A lot of their songs speak to situations and issues that I'm going through. Here is a selection of lyrics that meet me where I'm at right now:Potiphar's DoorWhen I was a little boy, I couldn't know the cost of going to warWhen I counted 'em and walked that aisle, you know that I couldn't count that highBut now I can count that highAnd I'm counting' 1,

Just How Free is Our Will?

2007-10-02T10:31:00.000-07:00

Since converting to Calvinism, I've argued that the will of man is always bound by something - we're either a slave of Satan or a slave of Christ; there is no middle-ground. This article from Banner of Truth discusses the issue. The author proposes several negative outcomes to the idea that a person possesses a free will, and also proposes the solution to such outcomes.I'll update this blog with

Another Claim that Christianity's Foundation is in Ancient Mythology

2007-09-21T12:24:00.000-07:00

Oh man, another claim that Christ is really a myth. The "Zeitgeist Movie" is produced by a group of people that claim that Jesus is merely another in a long line of mythological saviors; in fact, they say the entire Christmas-birth story is astrological in origin. Same old claims, new pop packaging.For those of you who want to watch this movie, simply click the title of this post. Be warned, this

First Post

2007-09-16T00:47:00.000-07:00

Well, here is my attempt at keeping a blog. We'll see how it goes :-)I will try to keep this updated with what I'm learning in school and life, with personal stuff sprinkled in for fun.Happy blogging!