People should not be afraid of their government. Governments should be afraid of their people." -- V
I've heard a lot of debate among friends across the election spectrum. Some think that this is the "most important election." (Hmm. Where have I heard that line before? Oh I dunno, probably about the previous election and the election before that...) Others seem to think that this is a game changer and still others of us see it as... "Just another election."
The way I see this election has always been how I've seen it: A vote for the lesser of two evils... still is a vote for evil. Trying to make the best of a bad situation is not a choice and does not exist in my mind. In short, if you can't play by the rules... don't. And that's probably the best piece of advice I've been given lately and what has finally and definitively answered my question as to who to vote for. I'm not playing by the world's rules because I don't see that as a choice. As far as I'm concerned, we don't have two parties. We have one. And they all are crooks.
I am not going to necessarily criticize those who want to vote McCain. Neither do I criticize those who want to vote Obama. But I must do as I feel I am led to do.
The simple fact is, these knees do not bow to anyone but the true king. Pastor gave a great sermon on how more time needs to be spent on our knees and less time canvasing. The base gets Sarah Palin and one would think that McCain picked the messiah as his running mate. Dear Lord, have we lost our minds? I do not object on the grounds that she is a woman. I object on the facts that she is NOT what she appears to be. A fine mask. But I'm not fooled.
And I have the same feelings about Barack Obama. I don't think he's the devil. But I don't think he's the messiah, either. Biden I have nothing but unbridled contempt, bordering on loathing and hatred for to the point of snarling everytime his name comes up. Again, have we lost our minds by making these guys our candidates?
I simply can't put any degree of faith, not an ounce in these candidates. The question is, am I prepared to deal with the consequences of such a vote? The answer is... yes. My vote isn't about letting someone take control. My vote is one of, "Putting no confidence in the flesh." That is my vote. I don't see it as Holier than thou. I don't see it as an easy decision. But this is what I'm left with and the only "vote" I can make.
The sermon I heard Saturday was what 99% of the population of Christendom needed to hear. But there's a small minority who just looks at this and goes... I can't in good conscience vote for these guys. What of us?
So there, I guess is the answer. Those of us who aren't voting must pray. And we must bind the enemy. We must go to where he lives and thrives and put him to the sword. That is the battle we draw. Because our hope doesn't come from politicians, nor government, nor presidents, nor rules, nor powers, nor organizations, nor parties. Our hope resides in Jesus Christ and I say that right now, that is perhaps our only hope.
Besides, I prefer a good fight to simply talking a problem to death and not actually do anything about it.
Above all, we must remember that Change doesn't come from the top down... it comes from the bottom up. And if we want to see anything in this world change, then Christians have but one recourse. And that is to get in and play ball, regardless of who the next president is. Whether in day or in night, Jesus Christ must be served and glorified... exclusively and faithfully. The King is still on the throne. He has not resigned, nor abdicated, nor abandoned his subjects. And because of that... we have reason to hope.
Saturday, November 1, 2008
Saturday, October 18, 2008
The Christian Male's Creed
-- First of all, I am a male. Yes, I know. That comes as a shock to many of you. I am not a female. This means that I do not think like a female. Therefore, I experience emotions differently. I also value certain characteristics differently. Jesus being loving and kind is not (to me) as important as a Jesus who is strong. It's important, but it is my nature to rank things.
-- I do not hate women. I try not to act like a male chauvenist pig. This may also come as a surprise. However, I do have issues with women who are pushed as something that men should aspire to be. I am not a female, therefore, I can't... and more importantly, don't feel like measuring up to a feminine standard. Telling me to get in touch with my feminine side will probably earn you what is usually defined as "The Sarcastic Symphony." Why? I just told you. I'm not female!
-- As a male, I like contact sports. Hockey, UFC, Pro Wrestling, Football and La Crosse, just to name a few. I like participating. I like watching. Therefore, not preaching about a full contact God who tosses temple tables, is loud, proud, blunt and at times sarcastic in addition to a Jesus Christ who nurtures, gives grace, loves and forgives is hereafter referred to as... wussy. Presenting a Jesus Christ who loves the sinner but does not tolerate sin (especially sin in God's church, from the "great" to the "small") may not be popular, but it is the most accurate portrait of Jesus Christ, despite the fact that we have made it into a cliché.
-- I have a shorter attention span. This is because of my bodily make up. And sometimes a lot of caffiene because someone at work thinks it's a good idea for a man to get up a six o clock in the morning.
-- I don't learn by lecture format. If you want to show a man how great of a God we serve, take him outside. Preferrably where cell phones and nagging aren't.
-- I like music. But I'm not going to croon a love song to a guy. So forgive me if I don't sing every chorus.
-- I learn by doing. The more hands on time I get with something, the better I understand it. I suggest taking people outside and doing something with your faith. Jesus Christ didn't drone on endless lectures and useless drivel which serves no purpose but to put its audience to sleep. Neither should we.
-- Faith is about risk, not security. Get used to the fact that men thrive on adventure and the unknown. And the challenge.
-- Faith is not concentrating on the latest building project. Faith is having the intestinal fortitude to go out and act on what God has called you to when everyone else thinks you're either stupid, or thinks that you're crazy... and maybe sometimes a little bit of both. Would that the church understood that faith is having the guts to step out on the water. So please, stop criticizing Peter. I don't see anyone else willing to step out of the boat.
-- Men are required to love their wives. Wives are required to respect their husbands. These things are given, not earned and they are not mutually exclusive.
-- Real men understand their proper place in relation to the King. They don't sit on the throne. Neither do they kiss the King. They bow at his feet, call Him Lord and obey his commands, no matter how crazy or inane or easy or difficult they may sound. We show our God our devotion not by serenading him with song, but by keeping his commands. We understand devotion to our ruler and express it differently. For a man, this means following his King into hell if necessary. Not that duty is what makes us saved. Only by grace are we saved. Our own merit does not add one iota to how much God cares for us, nor contributes one iota to our salvation.
-- Say it with me men: Men are not there just as a meal ticket. Men aren't to be idolized by the size of their paycheck. That makes about as much sense as a male oogling some chick in Playboy and is equally offensive.
-- A man is not defined by whether he is single or married. It doesn't matter whether he has a girl on his arm or a ring on his finger. A man is not defined by his social status. A man is defined by three things: His Salvation, His Honor and His identity. All three should be guarded carefully. In this day an age, there is an attack on the identity of a man. Institutions seek to pervert what a man is and what he should aspire to be. This is why Salvation is the most important. Everything else a man is derives from that. His honor is that which no one can take away and no one can give. And his identity comes from His King. His image is upon us. And it should be guarded carefully.
-- A warning to the group I refer to as Church ladies and potential suitors: I am not whipped, nor housebroken. Trying to put a bit in my mouth is useless. Others have tried before. And failed. I will choose a female who understands her value, how much I value her, but she absolutely cannot and must not take the place of Jesus Christ. I am not a deity to be worshipped and do not desire any such thing. Respect will do. My wife will understand that I value her more than she can imagine not as a possession, but as a fellow traveler, soldier, friend, and lover whom God has entrusted me to lead well... but I will not be disloyal to my King and his wishes. He will be honored above all that this world has to offer. He will be our Banner. He has been faithful despite the times when I was faithless. He has shown kindness to me more than I can count. Therefore, I owe him my reasonable service. All that I am belongs to him. I put you under His watch when I am not physically present. Honor Him. Respect His leadings. He covers everything that I cannot be.
-- In short, being a man is becoming like the Real Jesus Christ, accepting no imitations, not bending knees to a paper or false Christ. Everything we read about Jesus Christ from old testament to New point to a Jesus Christ who is almighty, who is holy, who makes an end of sin, who demands our best every day. He is redeemer, savior, King, Prophet and Priest. He is the Lamb of God and Lion of Judah. That Lion is not declawed, nor tame. He set his image on men. To quote Jada, who quotes C.S. Lewis: "He (Jesus) is not a tame Lion, but he is Good."
-- I do not hate women. I try not to act like a male chauvenist pig. This may also come as a surprise. However, I do have issues with women who are pushed as something that men should aspire to be. I am not a female, therefore, I can't... and more importantly, don't feel like measuring up to a feminine standard. Telling me to get in touch with my feminine side will probably earn you what is usually defined as "The Sarcastic Symphony." Why? I just told you. I'm not female!
-- As a male, I like contact sports. Hockey, UFC, Pro Wrestling, Football and La Crosse, just to name a few. I like participating. I like watching. Therefore, not preaching about a full contact God who tosses temple tables, is loud, proud, blunt and at times sarcastic in addition to a Jesus Christ who nurtures, gives grace, loves and forgives is hereafter referred to as... wussy. Presenting a Jesus Christ who loves the sinner but does not tolerate sin (especially sin in God's church, from the "great" to the "small") may not be popular, but it is the most accurate portrait of Jesus Christ, despite the fact that we have made it into a cliché.
-- I have a shorter attention span. This is because of my bodily make up. And sometimes a lot of caffiene because someone at work thinks it's a good idea for a man to get up a six o clock in the morning.
-- I don't learn by lecture format. If you want to show a man how great of a God we serve, take him outside. Preferrably where cell phones and nagging aren't.
-- I like music. But I'm not going to croon a love song to a guy. So forgive me if I don't sing every chorus.
-- I learn by doing. The more hands on time I get with something, the better I understand it. I suggest taking people outside and doing something with your faith. Jesus Christ didn't drone on endless lectures and useless drivel which serves no purpose but to put its audience to sleep. Neither should we.
-- Faith is about risk, not security. Get used to the fact that men thrive on adventure and the unknown. And the challenge.
-- Faith is not concentrating on the latest building project. Faith is having the intestinal fortitude to go out and act on what God has called you to when everyone else thinks you're either stupid, or thinks that you're crazy... and maybe sometimes a little bit of both. Would that the church understood that faith is having the guts to step out on the water. So please, stop criticizing Peter. I don't see anyone else willing to step out of the boat.
-- Men are required to love their wives. Wives are required to respect their husbands. These things are given, not earned and they are not mutually exclusive.
-- Real men understand their proper place in relation to the King. They don't sit on the throne. Neither do they kiss the King. They bow at his feet, call Him Lord and obey his commands, no matter how crazy or inane or easy or difficult they may sound. We show our God our devotion not by serenading him with song, but by keeping his commands. We understand devotion to our ruler and express it differently. For a man, this means following his King into hell if necessary. Not that duty is what makes us saved. Only by grace are we saved. Our own merit does not add one iota to how much God cares for us, nor contributes one iota to our salvation.
-- Say it with me men: Men are not there just as a meal ticket. Men aren't to be idolized by the size of their paycheck. That makes about as much sense as a male oogling some chick in Playboy and is equally offensive.
-- A man is not defined by whether he is single or married. It doesn't matter whether he has a girl on his arm or a ring on his finger. A man is not defined by his social status. A man is defined by three things: His Salvation, His Honor and His identity. All three should be guarded carefully. In this day an age, there is an attack on the identity of a man. Institutions seek to pervert what a man is and what he should aspire to be. This is why Salvation is the most important. Everything else a man is derives from that. His honor is that which no one can take away and no one can give. And his identity comes from His King. His image is upon us. And it should be guarded carefully.
-- A warning to the group I refer to as Church ladies and potential suitors: I am not whipped, nor housebroken. Trying to put a bit in my mouth is useless. Others have tried before. And failed. I will choose a female who understands her value, how much I value her, but she absolutely cannot and must not take the place of Jesus Christ. I am not a deity to be worshipped and do not desire any such thing. Respect will do. My wife will understand that I value her more than she can imagine not as a possession, but as a fellow traveler, soldier, friend, and lover whom God has entrusted me to lead well... but I will not be disloyal to my King and his wishes. He will be honored above all that this world has to offer. He will be our Banner. He has been faithful despite the times when I was faithless. He has shown kindness to me more than I can count. Therefore, I owe him my reasonable service. All that I am belongs to him. I put you under His watch when I am not physically present. Honor Him. Respect His leadings. He covers everything that I cannot be.
-- In short, being a man is becoming like the Real Jesus Christ, accepting no imitations, not bending knees to a paper or false Christ. Everything we read about Jesus Christ from old testament to New point to a Jesus Christ who is almighty, who is holy, who makes an end of sin, who demands our best every day. He is redeemer, savior, King, Prophet and Priest. He is the Lamb of God and Lion of Judah. That Lion is not declawed, nor tame. He set his image on men. To quote Jada, who quotes C.S. Lewis: "He (Jesus) is not a tame Lion, but he is Good."
Tuesday, September 30, 2008
More Boundless Blunders...
First off... here we go:
Single Minded Churches
To briefly summarize the article, we have a discussion on whether or not church should be scaling back from being "less" family oriented and more about singles. Less matchmaking, and more ministering to the single where they are.
Candice wonders if this is a good idea, because, after all... it's God's will for you to marry! Never mind the fact that 40% of the corporate world is single. (Although, in fairness, I suppose I'm not looking to the corporate world to make judgments for me!)
But frankly, I think churches should be taking heed of this as A. The world is a different place than it was say... fifty years ago. Maybe even twenty years ago. Because frankly, I don't know of many in my age group that have a 9-5 job. And though I've recently moved into that schedule, it's very much family oriented.
I'm not saying that we shouldn't be focusing on families and children. I'm simply saying that singles ministries shouldn't be matchmaking services, either. If something naturally happens as a result (as it did in a couple of friends' cases) then great.
Of course, I'm pretty sure I'm about to get more questions about "When are you getting married?" The answer? When I'm ready.
Fireproof Movie
Ah, yes... The fireproof movie. Anyone else besides me think that the hype machine is going overboard? If you really want to know how I feel about this movie... I can sum it up in four words: Chick Flick, Not Interested.
There's several reasons why:
1. Kirk Cameron.
2. Deals with some dude making up with his wife.
3. Kirk Cameron.
4. The acting looks terrible from the trailer.
5. Kirk Cameron.
6. Why do I get the feeling we aren't going to deal with real issues? I mean come on... considering the last movie, "Facing the Giants" I'm not expecting much, frankly. I'm a single guy. Not my thing, sorry. And yes, I'm making a subjective judgment for a change. I think I'm allowed to do that, right? (Just as I made a subjective/objective judgment to see Passion of the Christ because I felt that it would be a good movie! And I was not disappointed. In fact, I'd say my expectations were exceeded as the more I study it, the more I feel like it stands up well with still art and is the greatest piece of Jesus Cinema of our generation. It's EXTREMELY well done.)
7. Oh yeah, Kirk Cameron.
My big gripe here is that the film is definitely not what I would consider man friendly. It looks to me from the trailer that this is going to be another "Women are next in line to sainthood, Men need to be more like women!" type of flick. If that's what you want, then... I only have one word here: NEXT!
What disturbs me is Janelle's comment, which for some reason I see almost as delivered with a glare to quell the uprising, while the peasents are supposed to scrape and bow to the superior wisdom. No thanks. Yes, I'm being blunt. And no, I'm not apologizing for it. I'm tired of apologizing for things that are part of my makeup/heritage!
From an objective view point, I simply don't think the acting nor the writing cut the mustard. Simple solutions to complex problems that I'm not sure that works. Then again, I'm just a dumb single guy. ;-)
Thoughts on the movie? Am I completely wrong?
Single Minded Churches
To briefly summarize the article, we have a discussion on whether or not church should be scaling back from being "less" family oriented and more about singles. Less matchmaking, and more ministering to the single where they are.
Candice wonders if this is a good idea, because, after all... it's God's will for you to marry! Never mind the fact that 40% of the corporate world is single. (Although, in fairness, I suppose I'm not looking to the corporate world to make judgments for me!)
But frankly, I think churches should be taking heed of this as A. The world is a different place than it was say... fifty years ago. Maybe even twenty years ago. Because frankly, I don't know of many in my age group that have a 9-5 job. And though I've recently moved into that schedule, it's very much family oriented.
I'm not saying that we shouldn't be focusing on families and children. I'm simply saying that singles ministries shouldn't be matchmaking services, either. If something naturally happens as a result (as it did in a couple of friends' cases) then great.
Of course, I'm pretty sure I'm about to get more questions about "When are you getting married?" The answer? When I'm ready.
Fireproof Movie
Ah, yes... The fireproof movie. Anyone else besides me think that the hype machine is going overboard? If you really want to know how I feel about this movie... I can sum it up in four words: Chick Flick, Not Interested.
There's several reasons why:
1. Kirk Cameron.
2. Deals with some dude making up with his wife.
3. Kirk Cameron.
4. The acting looks terrible from the trailer.
5. Kirk Cameron.
6. Why do I get the feeling we aren't going to deal with real issues? I mean come on... considering the last movie, "Facing the Giants" I'm not expecting much, frankly. I'm a single guy. Not my thing, sorry. And yes, I'm making a subjective judgment for a change. I think I'm allowed to do that, right? (Just as I made a subjective/objective judgment to see Passion of the Christ because I felt that it would be a good movie! And I was not disappointed. In fact, I'd say my expectations were exceeded as the more I study it, the more I feel like it stands up well with still art and is the greatest piece of Jesus Cinema of our generation. It's EXTREMELY well done.)
7. Oh yeah, Kirk Cameron.
My big gripe here is that the film is definitely not what I would consider man friendly. It looks to me from the trailer that this is going to be another "Women are next in line to sainthood, Men need to be more like women!" type of flick. If that's what you want, then... I only have one word here: NEXT!
What disturbs me is Janelle's comment, which for some reason I see almost as delivered with a glare to quell the uprising, while the peasents are supposed to scrape and bow to the superior wisdom. No thanks. Yes, I'm being blunt. And no, I'm not apologizing for it. I'm tired of apologizing for things that are part of my makeup/heritage!
From an objective view point, I simply don't think the acting nor the writing cut the mustard. Simple solutions to complex problems that I'm not sure that works. Then again, I'm just a dumb single guy. ;-)
Thoughts on the movie? Am I completely wrong?
Wednesday, September 10, 2008
Balanced View of the Institutional Church
Well, I know I haven't had time to write my own posts as of late, but I do feel the need to point out the following post, which I think presents the most balanced view of how we should love the church (because I am an advocate of loving Christ and I think that also does extend horizontally to the church, despite what sometimes I may sound like) and I do highly recommend the read.
http://www.internetmonk.com/archive/how-do-i-love-the-church-or-why-jesus-isn%E2%80%99t-an-enabler
http://www.internetmonk.com/archive/how-do-i-love-the-church-or-why-jesus-isn%E2%80%99t-an-enabler
Thursday, August 28, 2008
Straight Talk about Pain...
You know, I never understood the Pop Christianity's obsession with happy, happy, joy, joy. Take Joel Osteen's popular messages. Sheesh. We already have one Tony Robbins. And I'm not interested sometimes in hearing about how I need to not be depressed. Jesus Christ was a real man. He wept. He got angry.
As a male, you're not allowed to have moods. It's not manly. And if you have one, you must be a woman! Please.
And let's look at the current worship scene, shall we? All those happy songs. And it's a blooming miracle if someone acknowledges suffering or pain as a distraction, much less anything as a reality. What of those of us who life has dealt a very rough hand? What of those us who are looking at life and going, "How in the name of all that is holy am I going to make it through another day?"
The Apostle Paul despaired of life. David wrote Psalm 22. Jesus wept. Jeremiah wrote Lamentations. Solomon wrote Ecclesiastes. And we try to sometimes yank the meaning out of these things. Or we try to gloss them over. (And I'm probably guilty of that one...) Jesus Christ said, "In this world you will have tribulation." Many take that to mean the Great Tribulation, but I don't think that's what he meant.
My thoughts are rather scattered this evening. And I don't exactly know why I'm writing this. But I've always felt that Churchianity tries to avoid the acknowledgment that Christians do suffer. Maybe we're not persecuted physically here. But sometimes we do have to confront mental and emotional issues. And I don't deny God is there with us going through these things even when we can't see him.
For a believer to admit, "Life just isn't what it should be right now," is to invite uncomfortable silence at best and a statement of "Well if you had enough faith... if you didn't sin, if you'd just" from folks. THis is the realm of nice guys, remember? Nice guys don't get depressed. They smile always! They sing praise at all times!
And the question that I have to ask... how can I smile when someone else close to me is in the battle? How can I smile when everything feels lost? And while I think there is validity to the question of "Rejoice in the Lord always," that does not require us to not acknowledge that things do hurt.
Why does pain exist? Partially because of the fall. Partially because it is God's way of teaching. Partially because of free will.
Feelings are an indicator of how things are going. But to rely solely on them is to put one's self in jeopardy. Christianity has become overly emotional. Worship demands a response, yes, but not always is it required that you have an emotional response.
Sometimes though, worship is about placing full trust in God despite all the pain. Sometimes worship is saying "Not my will, but thine be done." Sometimes it means that we bring the emotions under the authority and kingship of Jesus Christ.
Christianity needs to acknowledge that pain exists. And then, maybe then, we can deal with it openly and not in closed doors. And maybe... just maybe, we can be real with one another. Because I don't have to be afraid of someone who doesn't want to deal with much less acknowledge my pain.
As a male, you're not allowed to have moods. It's not manly. And if you have one, you must be a woman! Please.
And let's look at the current worship scene, shall we? All those happy songs. And it's a blooming miracle if someone acknowledges suffering or pain as a distraction, much less anything as a reality. What of those of us who life has dealt a very rough hand? What of those us who are looking at life and going, "How in the name of all that is holy am I going to make it through another day?"
The Apostle Paul despaired of life. David wrote Psalm 22. Jesus wept. Jeremiah wrote Lamentations. Solomon wrote Ecclesiastes. And we try to sometimes yank the meaning out of these things. Or we try to gloss them over. (And I'm probably guilty of that one...) Jesus Christ said, "In this world you will have tribulation." Many take that to mean the Great Tribulation, but I don't think that's what he meant.
My thoughts are rather scattered this evening. And I don't exactly know why I'm writing this. But I've always felt that Churchianity tries to avoid the acknowledgment that Christians do suffer. Maybe we're not persecuted physically here. But sometimes we do have to confront mental and emotional issues. And I don't deny God is there with us going through these things even when we can't see him.
For a believer to admit, "Life just isn't what it should be right now," is to invite uncomfortable silence at best and a statement of "Well if you had enough faith... if you didn't sin, if you'd just
And the question that I have to ask... how can I smile when someone else close to me is in the battle? How can I smile when everything feels lost? And while I think there is validity to the question of "Rejoice in the Lord always," that does not require us to not acknowledge that things do hurt.
Why does pain exist? Partially because of the fall. Partially because it is God's way of teaching. Partially because of free will.
Feelings are an indicator of how things are going. But to rely solely on them is to put one's self in jeopardy. Christianity has become overly emotional. Worship demands a response, yes, but not always is it required that you have an emotional response.
Sometimes though, worship is about placing full trust in God despite all the pain. Sometimes worship is saying "Not my will, but thine be done." Sometimes it means that we bring the emotions under the authority and kingship of Jesus Christ.
Christianity needs to acknowledge that pain exists. And then, maybe then, we can deal with it openly and not in closed doors. And maybe... just maybe, we can be real with one another. Because I don't have to be afraid of someone who doesn't want to deal with much less acknowledge my pain.
Thursday, August 21, 2008
An Analysis of the Dark Knight...
(WARNING! This post contains spoilers about the Dark Knight. If you haven't seen the movie, A. This post won't make sense. B. You may not like major plot point being discussed. You have been warned.)
Seems everyone is making comments about "The Dark Knight" Including my pastor and some other blogs I have links to. Some people feel that it's a show of evil that's almost too much to take. That maybe we shouldn't put evil on screen for people to look at. Or that good is anemic, that it leaves one with a dismal view of the world.
I disagree with these viewpoints. Strongly.
Now, to be fair... I have somewhat of a dismal view of the world as it is. When you're in Tech Support, you get to see the utter depravity of men up close and personal. You see people get angry for the stupidest of reasons. You have people get angry at you because they think you're stupid, that you're being a jerk, and then attempt to excuse it as “I'm emotional.” or “I don't mean to be taking this out on you, but....” Or even better, “I'm not racist, but...” and then spew some of the stupidest yarns I've ever heard. I guess that makes me somewhat cynical, dark, sarcastic and a few other things that tend to be frowned upon.
I'm also not going to try to make the claim that Hollywood has gotten it right all of the time. If you haven't been transformed by the Spirit's power, then at best... you can only see through a darkened glass.
What you see is the end result of Satan's parody of good. And it's not pretty to look at. But I ask that you don't look away. Because that's the problem with Christianity for the last few years. We've been looking away when we need to be looking directly at the evil that has engulfed our world. And then... like Bruce Wayne... we need to do something about it.
Bruce Wayne isn't perfect. Neither are we. But he's doing something that needs to be done. He's doing it because no one else is doing it. The exact reasons why need to be out with armor of God on in full and with the sword of the spirit in hand.
The Joker gives us a glimpse of Evil for Evil's sake. We need to understand that as the soldiers of Christ, we are not welcome in this world. We will never be welcome in this world. So get used to it. Get used to disappointment, sleeplessness, suffering, frustration and sorrow. Jesus Christ is our Savior and he went through these things. Are we better than our Master?
But we also need to understand that if we aren't careful, then evil can taint us. It can bring us down. It can leave us broken, distraught and yes, even utterly destroyed. But if we are on our guard, then the enemy cannot completely destroy us. We are pressed on every side, but not crushed. Persecuted, not abandoned. Struck down, but not destroyed. And we will win this war. The enemy will learn to fear out Battle Hymn.
“A Mighty Fortress is Our God,
A Bulwark Never Failing,
Our Helper he amid the flood
Of Mortal ills, prevailing.”
The final lesson to be learned from The Dark Knight is that Vengeance is not ours. Batman NOT tossing Joker off of the ledge was a wonderful move. We as Christians have had the powers of vengeance removed. Those powers are vested fully in Christ Jesus. And he does not share power. Nor is he weak, nor mild, nor sissified as many of our churches and sermons proclaim. As Jada and I have stated many times, “The Lion of Judah is not tame. But he is Good.” To take the powers of vengeance from their rightful place is to sin by unbelief, (because God will balance the books) by anger (usually a catalyst or accompliss to the act), and by not only removing Jesus Christ from his rightful throne, but by putting another in His place... namely ourselves.
Is it a pleasant film? Probably not for most well adjusted Christians. I'm not sure I can call myself that. Because I flatly refuse to completely insulate myself. I tried that. Didn't work out so well. But then again, neither did strictly trying to be a light in the world without assistance nor detox. Balance is necessary.
Side note: If you want to see a fine example of evil for evil's sake, consider Rob Zombie's version of Halloween. It's a film I've only seen once. And it's a reason (among many) why I believe evil should not be reasoned with, argued with, explained, rationalized, compromised with or otherwise allowed to exist. There is only one response that Christian should have. And that is through the power of Jesus Christ, it must be stopped, driven back and destroyed. A warning: This film is by nature, dark. Black. If you feel the need to see evil, then go in with the armor on.
Let your only sovereign be Jesus Christ.
Seems everyone is making comments about "The Dark Knight" Including my pastor and some other blogs I have links to. Some people feel that it's a show of evil that's almost too much to take. That maybe we shouldn't put evil on screen for people to look at. Or that good is anemic, that it leaves one with a dismal view of the world.
I disagree with these viewpoints. Strongly.
Now, to be fair... I have somewhat of a dismal view of the world as it is. When you're in Tech Support, you get to see the utter depravity of men up close and personal. You see people get angry for the stupidest of reasons. You have people get angry at you because they think you're stupid, that you're being a jerk, and then attempt to excuse it as “I'm emotional.” or “I don't mean to be taking this out on you, but....” Or even better, “I'm not racist, but...” and then spew some of the stupidest yarns I've ever heard. I guess that makes me somewhat cynical, dark, sarcastic and a few other things that tend to be frowned upon.
I'm also not going to try to make the claim that Hollywood has gotten it right all of the time. If you haven't been transformed by the Spirit's power, then at best... you can only see through a darkened glass.
What you see is the end result of Satan's parody of good. And it's not pretty to look at. But I ask that you don't look away. Because that's the problem with Christianity for the last few years. We've been looking away when we need to be looking directly at the evil that has engulfed our world. And then... like Bruce Wayne... we need to do something about it.
Bruce Wayne isn't perfect. Neither are we. But he's doing something that needs to be done. He's doing it because no one else is doing it. The exact reasons why need to be out with armor of God on in full and with the sword of the spirit in hand.
The Joker gives us a glimpse of Evil for Evil's sake. We need to understand that as the soldiers of Christ, we are not welcome in this world. We will never be welcome in this world. So get used to it. Get used to disappointment, sleeplessness, suffering, frustration and sorrow. Jesus Christ is our Savior and he went through these things. Are we better than our Master?
But we also need to understand that if we aren't careful, then evil can taint us. It can bring us down. It can leave us broken, distraught and yes, even utterly destroyed. But if we are on our guard, then the enemy cannot completely destroy us. We are pressed on every side, but not crushed. Persecuted, not abandoned. Struck down, but not destroyed. And we will win this war. The enemy will learn to fear out Battle Hymn.
“A Mighty Fortress is Our God,
A Bulwark Never Failing,
Our Helper he amid the flood
Of Mortal ills, prevailing.”
The final lesson to be learned from The Dark Knight is that Vengeance is not ours. Batman NOT tossing Joker off of the ledge was a wonderful move. We as Christians have had the powers of vengeance removed. Those powers are vested fully in Christ Jesus. And he does not share power. Nor is he weak, nor mild, nor sissified as many of our churches and sermons proclaim. As Jada and I have stated many times, “The Lion of Judah is not tame. But he is Good.” To take the powers of vengeance from their rightful place is to sin by unbelief, (because God will balance the books) by anger (usually a catalyst or accompliss to the act), and by not only removing Jesus Christ from his rightful throne, but by putting another in His place... namely ourselves.
Is it a pleasant film? Probably not for most well adjusted Christians. I'm not sure I can call myself that. Because I flatly refuse to completely insulate myself. I tried that. Didn't work out so well. But then again, neither did strictly trying to be a light in the world without assistance nor detox. Balance is necessary.
Side note: If you want to see a fine example of evil for evil's sake, consider Rob Zombie's version of Halloween. It's a film I've only seen once. And it's a reason (among many) why I believe evil should not be reasoned with, argued with, explained, rationalized, compromised with or otherwise allowed to exist. There is only one response that Christian should have. And that is through the power of Jesus Christ, it must be stopped, driven back and destroyed. A warning: This film is by nature, dark. Black. If you feel the need to see evil, then go in with the armor on.
Let your only sovereign be Jesus Christ.
Thursday, August 7, 2008
A Church for Men?
I mentioned last post that I kinda wanted to ditch Luther's mass as the centerpoint. Part of the reason for this is because I feel it's too restrictive. I also mentioned that I think there is room for some of the institutional framework in the church for men. I think that the institutional church can still serve as a point for those who are comfortable with this setting. But the real heart of this is more of a central core of guys that share life together. But I'm getting ahead of myself.
Let's start with a skeleton frame of what I think might be effective for something aking to the institutional meeting we've come to call church:
1. Call to Worship -- Music (One Song only)
2. Opening Video/object lesson this is going to introduce the sermon.
3. Silence -- Arguably the most important part of the service as this is a time for God to speak to us individual. I think that we don't spend nearly enough time doing this and so, I think it's important to set this aside from the beginning... say 10 minutes or so.
4. Corporate Prayer/Prayer needs -- This will be everyone's responsibility as we will have someone lead us in the Lord's prayer, but only as a framework. I don't want a rote recitation of the prayer. I want to encourage people to have these components in a prayer.
5. Sharing of one's gifts. I'm not quite sure how this looks practically, but I think that Paul had some ideas as did James. So we'll be using them as a guide.
6. Short sermon. Preferrably Fifteen to Twenty minutes.
7. Response. This may be again a drama, another object lesson for the congregation, visual aid, Music...
8. A giving of thanks. Perhaps another song?
9. Eucharist. "For as often as you eat of this bread and drink of this cup, you proclaim the death and resurrection of our Lord." I just don't see this as an optional. I've been guilty of passing the table too often at church... and I think that there's much to be said of doing this weekly.
10 Bendiction and closing Hymn. -- I find this to be Jesus' custom at the end of the passover. And I find it interesting that John bothers to make mention of it as none of the other gospels do. So I'm borrowing it.
So there you go. There's the main service. I must say it feels slightly like rearranging deck chairs on the titanic, but it's a darn sight better than most churches do.
You'll note that I've left a couple of things out. 1. Passing the plate. I'm not ruling out putting it in the service completely. But I believe that God will provide. And so I will leave the plate as an altar where people may bring their tithes and offerings. 2. Greeting time. Feels artificial to me. It can be handled before or after service.
Sunday school would be changed. To something simple that goes like this:
1. Goal: Discipleship. Plain and simple.
2. Keeping the age group together, maybe with one or two older Christians.
3. Preferrably Men with Men and Women with Women.
4. The forum is open. You meet prior to the service to share needs. We pray for each other, encourage each other and talk about the week.
5. The group is no larger than 12 people.
6. Leaders will be completely responsible for their group. These will not be made up of anyone on the pastoral staff. I want the congregation to have as much responsibility as possible. This is a community. Act like one. :-)
That's it. Now for something that will take people out into the deep.
1. We set aside every month where there is a fifth Sunday, we announce the date as far ahead as we can.
2. We choose a ministry as a congregation to participate in.
3. As we have received freely, we also give freely. I'm thinking say 10 percent of the offering be given to this ministry.
4. We also as a congregation will participate physically and help the ministry. That's the worship service.
There's a lot I'm leaving out here, but I feel it's a step in the right direction. Finally, Rules for membership to this theoretical church are pretty simple: You affirm your belief in Jesus Christ. You agree to be baptized if you haven't. You agree to follow Jesus above all and keep his commands. And finally, you agree to support this church by any means necessary provided that it is in accordance with the written word. If we step out of line, then you are exempt from this obligation.
I know I'm not addressing the cultural barriers, politics, etc. This is simply a framework. But again, I'd like to hear some thoughts on this. I think this is how you get men aborad as I'm trying to provide: A. A place of refuge B. A place of iron sharpening iron, C. A place of discipleship and D. A place where service begins and you are pushed. I want this to be a situation where the congregation will have more responsibility, and not just a stage. Matter of fact, the chairs will be set in a circle where the stage is.
In short, I want to make this a place where Satan himself hears of us and craps his pants.
Wednesday, July 30, 2008
Manifesto -- Part 2: The Church
Most of us are probably here at this blog because we're men, and maybe some of us don't like church as it is.
Issues and contentions:
1. Men typically are asked to change things that are wired to their image.
This can be anything from pastors telling men to "be nice... be a Christian" to "Jesus wouldn't own a gun" or "Jesus wouldn't insult anyone because he was... (wait for it) NIIIIIIICE." Men thrive on challenge... (And by challenge, I don't mean a challenge, something that rewires the programming.) The problem is, we want a bunch of nice guys. Men weren't put here to not cause trouble despite what Christianity Today might have to say about men not being called to imitate our Father's wild side. (Which is the biggest load of horse manure I've heard.) Christ wasn't this meek and mild guy who came to shake hands, kiss babies, smile that winning smile of a Tony Robbins and talk about a God who wanted to say, "Let's make a Deal" or "God is a nice grandfather who wants to be friends."
No, Jesus was more like a General Patton who came and said, "This is the deal. I am the way, the truth, the life... no man comes to the Father but by me. Take it or leave it." He tossed temple tables and challenged complacency.
When was the last time you heard a sermon that called men to be dangerous? Nope. We're called to be kinder, gentler folk. Just be nice to everyone. Don't rock the boat. Don't step out on the water, because, you know... that would offend someone.
Moving on from that dead horse...
2. Men are expected to check his masculinity at the door of the church.
Why? Because generally we get advised by pastors to "imagine yourselves kissing Jesus." (Was advised this once by a Pastor. Not at the current church, but at a different church)
All the women might be thinking "That sounds nice" while the men are probably trying not to throw up. It's a little like telling women "Imagine yourself kissing the woman next to you..." It gets worse. We're expected to sing music that isn't in our range. We're expected to sing stuff like "Jesus I am so in love with you." Huh? I'm sorry I really struggle with the idea of Christ as our lover. And I understand, not every man does. But I don't think I'm holding Christ at arms length by saying I'm not sure I can sing that. I respect Him as King, I have no problem putting Christ in his proper place on the throne. (And let's be honest, we don't have a problem with that idea, but we don't always living this out.) But I think that the "L" word has been so loosely used and has been assigned connotations that most men are going to run into the same issue. There are exceptions and I've met a few. That's completely okay. Perhaps they are further along with their spiritual walk than I. But I'm just not comfortable with that idea.
And we're encouraged to think of ourselves as the bride individually to Christ. (I don't dispute us collectively being God's bride, but individually?) That's an idea that guys are going to struggle with. And again, some of us aren't there.
Meanwhile, where are the songs that discuss Christ's masculinity, his power, his Manhood? I have to go back to the late eighties to early nineties to find that kind of music.
3. Men are expected to treat church like school.
30 minute monologues aren't friendly to the male mind. Neither are repetitive choruses. We don't have the attention span or patience (as the case may be) to deal with it. This is something I'll deal with in the next post from a practical standpoint.
4. Men's ministry is essentially women's ministry lite.
When was the last time you heard some guy say, "Gee Bob... why don't we get together and share our feelings." No? You haven't heard that either? Hmmm... well how about this one: Want to reach men? "Hey Bob, we're heading out to wakeboard. Wanna come?"
I'd rather not harp too much on this. Guys do sit around and talk. But not all of us do. Some of us function better by doing something while we talk. (Gaming, tabletop, etc)
If we're happy with the way things are.. then don't change anything. But if we don't the church will continue to lose men, which in turn will cause the next generation to be absent as well.
If on the other hand you want to see men not only in church, but also on fire then I believe wholesale changes are in order.
1. Stop asking men to be women and start asking them to be men.
This means men should not be asked to sing of the love of God forever... and ever... and ever. Ask him to declare God's glory, his strength, his righteousness; his goodness. And let worship come from there. Furthermore, if you want to show a man God, take him out to the wild, and then watch what happens. That's where he prepares for the other six days of the week. And it's wise to let him prepare properly. Give him every opportunity to soak up the word, preferrably through physical demonstrations, visual aids.
2. Stop asking men to be nice... demand that they prepare for war.
And while we're on the subject, let's not ask for nicer men. Let's ask for more dangerous men. Nicer men get chewed up and spit out. Dangerous men kick rear and take names. It's that simple. War isn't for wimps. War is the trial by fire where we find out what the heck you're made of. It is where you put into practice what you've learned in the training grounds. Church is the training grounds and it's high time that the institutional church understood this.
3. Stop asking men for the mundane and start asking men for their faith.
I suppose there is a little part of me that every time a pastor starts expositioning text that wonders why the pastor is trying to soften the blows of what Christ is calling us to. For example, the most common example, in Luke, there's a passage that essentially says, Any man who loves his wife, his children, his mother, his father more than me is not fit for the kingdom of heaven. This is usually followed by "Now Jesus didn't mean that we should not love our wives." Really? Can we stop philosophising the text? Did Jesus mean what he said? If so, then why are we trying to make excuses? Why are we trying to lower the bar? Stop. Now. I think most of us are intelligent to figure out that Jesus is not endorsing spousal abuse or neglect.
Let's face it though, Jesus always has a table to flip, be it a table to an idol that we've set up and worship in place of him or maybe, it's a radical call. Something that doesn't quite make sense, yet is demanded by God. For example, Christ himself makes the challenge that any man who comes to God with conditions is not fit for the kingdom. No conditions. For some this may mean a potential love interest to forgo, maybe a job, maybe college, maybe it's as simple as getting your priorities straight. Maybe it's something that needs to change in terms of how we're spending our time or something that's in the way of the whole hearted pursuit of God. God's command is if you want to be in my Kingdom, I have to be the King. Period. So why is it that American Christianity insists on programs, buildings, and other stuff that gets in the way?
Why is it that when the scripture calls us to something that seems impossible, we lower the bar into the mundane? The call is high. That's the entire point. If it was so easy we could do it, why would we need a savior
4. Stop asking men to repair the church, and start asking them to build the kingdom.
Repairing the church is necessary and upkeep is required, but sometimes I feel as though we are asked too often to give our money but see no return on the investment. Granted, sometimes we can't always see it, but sometimes I have to ask why we feel it necessary to build a building that costs x millions of dollars instead of using that money to build the kingdom through ministry outside the walls. Space issues, I get. But why so much coin? How does this fix problems in the community? How does this show the love of Christ? What kind of effect does this have in building the kingdom? I'm not saying church building or repair is evil. Men need a cause, not a burden. And yes, again I agree we need to be servants and stewards. I simply question the gaudiness with which we're doing it.
I'll be frank... I don't think God gives a care how much you put in an offering place. Whether it's five cents or five million... Yes, that may have something to do with your spiritual life. That's between you and God. But maybe, God is trying to also get some of us off of our blessed assurance and doing something with our lives. And maybe that means we skip Church on Sunday to take a few other believers and you go do something in terms of Kingdom building and then share a meal afterward. That's not giving up meeting together. That's what Kingdom building is about.
I've often wondered what would happen in churches if we put as a membership requirement that as a member of this church, we will be about the Greater Things that Christ has called us to. We will do And as a member of this church, you'll be asked to do this specific ministry once every so often. Yet, the American church right now has such a phobia of works, we seem to be caught in a mire that says, "Let's keep it intellectual. Let's talk about it over coffee." Anyone else think that's putting God in a nice neat box and shoving him in a corner somewhere? I understand planning… but at the same time, God likes faith. God will eventually say as he said to Moses, “What are you doing on your face? Get the people moving.”
5. Stop asking men to settle for the law, ask them to start doing the greater things of Jesus Christ.
Consider the marks of a transformed life in the Early church. They spoke in tongues, they preached sermons, they ministered to their world, they healed the sick, they raised the dead. And when they were tossed out of the city, they walked back in and continue to proclaim the gospel.
And what do we settle for here in the American church? Gee, let's pray. Oh, and let's have a blanket sermon on Pornography and how it's wrong, and you're a heathen and you need to change. Are you reading your Bible everyday? Are you married? Are you going to a Christian college, listening to Christian Music and sitting in our four walled thing called a church every week.
Anyone see a problem here?
So, how do we deal with this practically? Simply injecting these ideas into main service won't help. That's moving deck chairs around on the Titanic. What needs to happen is we need to look at the concept of church as a whole, a blend of both institution and of organics. And maybe... we need a little bit of electronics to tie this whole thing together. And maybe, just maybe for our institutional branches... we need to dump this thing called "Luther's Mass" that we've had for a few hundred years where a lot of hot air is the high point of the "worship" service. More on that next time.
Issues and contentions:
1. Men typically are asked to change things that are wired to their image.
This can be anything from pastors telling men to "be nice... be a Christian" to "Jesus wouldn't own a gun" or "Jesus wouldn't insult anyone because he was... (wait for it) NIIIIIIICE." Men thrive on challenge... (And by challenge, I don't mean a challenge, something that rewires the programming.) The problem is, we want a bunch of nice guys. Men weren't put here to not cause trouble despite what Christianity Today might have to say about men not being called to imitate our Father's wild side. (Which is the biggest load of horse manure I've heard.) Christ wasn't this meek and mild guy who came to shake hands, kiss babies, smile that winning smile of a Tony Robbins and talk about a God who wanted to say, "Let's make a Deal" or "God is a nice grandfather who wants to be friends."
No, Jesus was more like a General Patton who came and said, "This is the deal. I am the way, the truth, the life... no man comes to the Father but by me. Take it or leave it." He tossed temple tables and challenged complacency.
When was the last time you heard a sermon that called men to be dangerous? Nope. We're called to be kinder, gentler folk. Just be nice to everyone. Don't rock the boat. Don't step out on the water, because, you know... that would offend someone.
Moving on from that dead horse...
2. Men are expected to check his masculinity at the door of the church.
Why? Because generally we get advised by pastors to "imagine yourselves kissing Jesus." (Was advised this once by a Pastor. Not at the current church, but at a different church)
All the women might be thinking "That sounds nice" while the men are probably trying not to throw up. It's a little like telling women "Imagine yourself kissing the woman next to you..." It gets worse. We're expected to sing music that isn't in our range. We're expected to sing stuff like "Jesus I am so in love with you." Huh? I'm sorry I really struggle with the idea of Christ as our lover. And I understand, not every man does. But I don't think I'm holding Christ at arms length by saying I'm not sure I can sing that. I respect Him as King, I have no problem putting Christ in his proper place on the throne. (And let's be honest, we don't have a problem with that idea, but we don't always living this out.) But I think that the "L" word has been so loosely used and has been assigned connotations that most men are going to run into the same issue. There are exceptions and I've met a few. That's completely okay. Perhaps they are further along with their spiritual walk than I. But I'm just not comfortable with that idea.
And we're encouraged to think of ourselves as the bride individually to Christ. (I don't dispute us collectively being God's bride, but individually?) That's an idea that guys are going to struggle with. And again, some of us aren't there.
Meanwhile, where are the songs that discuss Christ's masculinity, his power, his Manhood? I have to go back to the late eighties to early nineties to find that kind of music.
3. Men are expected to treat church like school.
30 minute monologues aren't friendly to the male mind. Neither are repetitive choruses. We don't have the attention span or patience (as the case may be) to deal with it. This is something I'll deal with in the next post from a practical standpoint.
4. Men's ministry is essentially women's ministry lite.
When was the last time you heard some guy say, "Gee Bob... why don't we get together and share our feelings." No? You haven't heard that either? Hmmm... well how about this one: Want to reach men? "Hey Bob, we're heading out to wakeboard. Wanna come?"
I'd rather not harp too much on this. Guys do sit around and talk. But not all of us do. Some of us function better by doing something while we talk. (Gaming, tabletop, etc)
If we're happy with the way things are.. then don't change anything. But if we don't the church will continue to lose men, which in turn will cause the next generation to be absent as well.
If on the other hand you want to see men not only in church, but also on fire then I believe wholesale changes are in order.
1. Stop asking men to be women and start asking them to be men.
This means men should not be asked to sing of the love of God forever... and ever... and ever. Ask him to declare God's glory, his strength, his righteousness; his goodness. And let worship come from there. Furthermore, if you want to show a man God, take him out to the wild, and then watch what happens. That's where he prepares for the other six days of the week. And it's wise to let him prepare properly. Give him every opportunity to soak up the word, preferrably through physical demonstrations, visual aids.
2. Stop asking men to be nice... demand that they prepare for war.
And while we're on the subject, let's not ask for nicer men. Let's ask for more dangerous men. Nicer men get chewed up and spit out. Dangerous men kick rear and take names. It's that simple. War isn't for wimps. War is the trial by fire where we find out what the heck you're made of. It is where you put into practice what you've learned in the training grounds. Church is the training grounds and it's high time that the institutional church understood this.
3. Stop asking men for the mundane and start asking men for their faith.
I suppose there is a little part of me that every time a pastor starts expositioning text that wonders why the pastor is trying to soften the blows of what Christ is calling us to. For example, the most common example, in Luke, there's a passage that essentially says, Any man who loves his wife, his children, his mother, his father more than me is not fit for the kingdom of heaven. This is usually followed by "Now Jesus didn't mean that we should not love our wives." Really? Can we stop philosophising the text? Did Jesus mean what he said? If so, then why are we trying to make excuses? Why are we trying to lower the bar? Stop. Now. I think most of us are intelligent to figure out that Jesus is not endorsing spousal abuse or neglect.
Let's face it though, Jesus always has a table to flip, be it a table to an idol that we've set up and worship in place of him or maybe, it's a radical call. Something that doesn't quite make sense, yet is demanded by God. For example, Christ himself makes the challenge that any man who comes to God with conditions is not fit for the kingdom. No conditions. For some this may mean a potential love interest to forgo, maybe a job, maybe college, maybe it's as simple as getting your priorities straight. Maybe it's something that needs to change in terms of how we're spending our time or something that's in the way of the whole hearted pursuit of God. God's command is if you want to be in my Kingdom, I have to be the King. Period. So why is it that American Christianity insists on programs, buildings, and other stuff that gets in the way?
Why is it that when the scripture calls us to something that seems impossible, we lower the bar into the mundane? The call is high. That's the entire point. If it was so easy we could do it, why would we need a savior
4. Stop asking men to repair the church, and start asking them to build the kingdom.
Repairing the church is necessary and upkeep is required, but sometimes I feel as though we are asked too often to give our money but see no return on the investment. Granted, sometimes we can't always see it, but sometimes I have to ask why we feel it necessary to build a building that costs x millions of dollars instead of using that money to build the kingdom through ministry outside the walls. Space issues, I get. But why so much coin? How does this fix problems in the community? How does this show the love of Christ? What kind of effect does this have in building the kingdom? I'm not saying church building or repair is evil. Men need a cause, not a burden. And yes, again I agree we need to be servants and stewards. I simply question the gaudiness with which we're doing it.
I'll be frank... I don't think God gives a care how much you put in an offering place. Whether it's five cents or five million... Yes, that may have something to do with your spiritual life. That's between you and God. But maybe, God is trying to also get some of us off of our blessed assurance and doing something with our lives. And maybe that means we skip Church on Sunday to take a few other believers and you go do something in terms of Kingdom building and then share a meal afterward. That's not giving up meeting together. That's what Kingdom building is about.
I've often wondered what would happen in churches if we put as a membership requirement that as a member of this church, we will be about the Greater Things that Christ has called us to. We will do
5. Stop asking men to settle for the law, ask them to start doing the greater things of Jesus Christ.
Consider the marks of a transformed life in the Early church. They spoke in tongues, they preached sermons, they ministered to their world, they healed the sick, they raised the dead. And when they were tossed out of the city, they walked back in and continue to proclaim the gospel.
And what do we settle for here in the American church? Gee, let's pray. Oh, and let's have a blanket sermon on Pornography and how it's wrong, and you're a heathen and you need to change. Are you reading your Bible everyday? Are you married? Are you going to a Christian college, listening to Christian Music and sitting in our four walled thing called a church every week.
Anyone see a problem here?
So, how do we deal with this practically? Simply injecting these ideas into main service won't help. That's moving deck chairs around on the Titanic. What needs to happen is we need to look at the concept of church as a whole, a blend of both institution and of organics. And maybe... we need a little bit of electronics to tie this whole thing together. And maybe, just maybe for our institutional branches... we need to dump this thing called "Luther's Mass" that we've had for a few hundred years where a lot of hot air is the high point of the "worship" service. More on that next time.
Illustration: Where the Rubber Meets the Road
Introduction: Originally an entry for a writing challenge, I hope that this piece will illustrate just what kind of war we are in and what we are facing. Apologies for the formatting. Blogger doesn't want to cooperate. :-) Oh yeah, one last thing. I'm placing an advisory on this post for somewhat graphic content.
"God has not given us a spirit of fear."
That's what our quartermaster had us recite over and over again. The scattered remnants of a war that people don't want to admit is going on, ignore, pull out of, or worse... condemn. For those people, this letter is for you.
I'm here to remind every able bodied warrior that we are still in a fight. Open warfare is upon us, whether we admit it or not. And this soldier is getting bloody tired of hearing about how we shouldn't be fighting or how we shouldn't be involved. Meanwhile, all of you lethargic pansies dose in the sunlight streaming through your stained glass windows. All while the new regime reigns and your silence votes your consent.
You may consider the resistance well and truly over. I do not. Much as our forefather nailed a paper filled with ninety-five issues with the word of man versus the word of God, I am here to nail the account of one charge to your door. That one charge is cowardice.
I'm not a politician. I'm not a general. I'm a simple soldier. Angry as God's wrath and less merciful than he is. You need not apply a title to my name. Simply Alastair will do. And I'm here to tell you my story, as no doubt by now your wondering why someone who is twenty one years of age can have the audacity to stand up and say such things.
It was our first drop since the resistance died off. Our first test as men. Twelve of us. Each given our assignments and sent out. Not empty handed mind you. We have the armor. Helmets, chestplates, belts, sheathes, shoes, even hand shields. The kind of war we fight is the
one where things get rough, bloody and even violent. This isn't some dress parade. The armor isn't exactly for decoration. Servicable gunmetal grey. Steady, hard bulletproof. They say anyone who wears the armor suffers no damage. Even more say that when the King comes we don't need the armor, nor the weapons.
Our quartermaster showed us our weapons. Swords, a blade wrapped in a chain-blade, something that looks like a cross between a sword and a chainsaw. And a machine pistol called all prayer. 48 round magazines. Bullets lethal to the things you call demons, and what we call scum. And lets not forget our other weapons. "Blood" and "Testimony" One's an armor piercing automatic machine rifle. And the other is an armor piercing single shot round, with a blade attached. Now some of you are probably asking "Is this guy for real? He sounds a little off in the head." Yeah, so what if I do? The Irish don't like anyone telling them what to do, when to do it or when to lay off. We're a bunch of crazies you might say.
So, why'd I join? Maybe it's because I don't like seeing our world decay and die a little more every day. Maybe it's because I fear the wrath to come visit us, a wrath more terrible than anything we see now. I don't want us to be caught in that. And I don't want anyone caught in it. Except for those scum.
This was our first real operation. Not some skirmish or training. Everything's real. The bullets, the darts, the steel. Everything. Since we have so few members remaining, we have to split up. Two men to an assignment. My partner, Thyrion, is also a man's man. Sometimes criticized by bluehairs as too rough around the edges. You know the type. The older females who walk around like their God's gift to creation, and the only voice that matters. Apparently, someone didn't read about that whole griping session that Miriam had with Moses.
We head to what some would call the temple. I call it an abomination. Why? Because it's where they live. After all, we're about to do what we're called to do. Rile up some dark powers and principalities. The kind your mother warned you about except bigger, meaner, uglier. And then, we're going to destroy them. Cast them out. They happen to have my friend. In isolation. That's what our intelligence told us. And now we come to the real heart of it. One of the reasons I wanted this operation. Personal reasons. Perhaps some misguided priorities.
"Any man who doesn't hate his father or mother, his wife, his children, is not fit to be in this army."
At first, I thought it was hyperbole. But the more I began to read the writings, the more it became clear that maybe the King was serious. Deadly serious. Nothing could be higher than he. If you were in, you were all in. Hard as the King is, there are provisions for marriage. But I'm getting ahead of myself.
We arrive where they're holding her. Her name is Jess. The thought of anyone putting chains on her and putting her where they could torture her is enough to make any man's blood boil.
This is a small outpost. But we have to start somewhere. Numbers don't matter to us. Lives do. As we approach the gates, we see them. My friend demands their surrender. But surprise of surprises, the scum don't surrender. Good. It's better that way. I have some aggression to work out.
Now I'm sure some of you wonder why I'm about to tell this battle story and demand that it be told to your children and to your children's children. The reason is because we must never forget why we were put here, why we were pulled from the mire, why we have been chosen. Every man, woman and child who signs on for the army must not make this decision lightly. This is war. This is not for the faint, nor the weak, not the double minded, and certainly not for the cowards.
Our all prayer was out first, round after round emptied into the demons from hell. Weakened, yes... but as you all well know, it takes more than that to banish a demon. Their blood was indeed staining the ground, some of them howling in anger and pain. But these foul smelling wretches did not deserve a quick death. And I'm thankful that they are hearty stock. Heartier stock equals more whacks and more bullets.
Next out was the Blood. A few finally went down under its report. Back to back we stood, covering for each other. And sure enough, the darts and the bullets were bouncing off of the armor. Soon came the weapon Testimony. One or two fell. I slit one more open at its throat
out of desperation as we were pressed on every side. But we did not falter. We stood firm.
And now we get to it. The real weapon. The masterwork. The sword. Hand to hand combat. A more personal touch. The bloodletting was getting ugly. Limbs and legs, entrails and heads were lying scattered on the killing floor. It might as well have been an altar of old. Soon, we were down to the last of the sons of hell. I ran him through.
"That... was for my friend."
I turned on the blade with a flick of the switch on the hilt.
"This is a message for your master. Go back to hell and tell him that the armies of God will no longer be held back and we will not surrender one more inch of ground. The Kingdom of heaven suffers violence. But the violent take it by force."
The chain-blade made the body jolt in its death throes and blood stained the ground. I returned the gore soaked blade to its rightful place on my back. I marched into the hall and with the help of all prayer, the captive Jess was freed.
Unfortunately, the myth of the armor protecting against EVERY wound is somewhat exaggerated. There were a few bullets that will at most leave scarring. But this isn't the dog and pony show. This is war. And in war, it's expected that someone bleeds a little for the cause. The
important thing is all of our vital areas are protected. The King, who provides us with the armor, has seen to that.
It has been a year and a half since that battle. And every day, we get a little closer with our small ragtag group. Some of our older soldiers have gone home to be with their King. The rest of us continue on, winning victory after victory because the Great King is with us and he continues to supply our every need.
So now I come to ask the men, women and children of the army reserves. I come to ask them for their help. The King has not created the reserves. That is something of our own doing. I am here
to remind the army that we are not home yet. We are still on this side of the war. And we must continue to press the attack until the King says otherwise.
The fight is hard. Not every battle is won, we are pressed on every side, but we will not falter. We are struck down, but we are not destroyed. But we are getting tired. We cannot hold off the
counterattack by ourselves. Every soldier must do their part. If twelve of us can hold off this fierce resistance, imagine what the rest of us can do. Finally, I would remind the army that when we signed on, our comfort was not guaranteed. For those of you who are fighting, you have my thanks. But I warn you... any man who is not determined to put themselves all in is not fit for service. They are not worthy. Consider your choice. But if you see as I do, and you feel
as I do, then pick up your weapons and put on your armor.
The Lord reigns, let the earth be glad... and let the saints rejoice because the King is passing by, with sword and shield, mighty to save, ready to fight in the day of battle. Now until Him who is able be all glory and honor and praise. Because he alone is worthy.
"God has not given us a spirit of fear."
That's what our quartermaster had us recite over and over again. The scattered remnants of a war that people don't want to admit is going on, ignore, pull out of, or worse... condemn. For those people, this letter is for you.
I'm here to remind every able bodied warrior that we are still in a fight. Open warfare is upon us, whether we admit it or not. And this soldier is getting bloody tired of hearing about how we shouldn't be fighting or how we shouldn't be involved. Meanwhile, all of you lethargic pansies dose in the sunlight streaming through your stained glass windows. All while the new regime reigns and your silence votes your consent.
You may consider the resistance well and truly over. I do not. Much as our forefather nailed a paper filled with ninety-five issues with the word of man versus the word of God, I am here to nail the account of one charge to your door. That one charge is cowardice.
I'm not a politician. I'm not a general. I'm a simple soldier. Angry as God's wrath and less merciful than he is. You need not apply a title to my name. Simply Alastair will do. And I'm here to tell you my story, as no doubt by now your wondering why someone who is twenty one years of age can have the audacity to stand up and say such things.
It was our first drop since the resistance died off. Our first test as men. Twelve of us. Each given our assignments and sent out. Not empty handed mind you. We have the armor. Helmets, chestplates, belts, sheathes, shoes, even hand shields. The kind of war we fight is the
one where things get rough, bloody and even violent. This isn't some dress parade. The armor isn't exactly for decoration. Servicable gunmetal grey. Steady, hard bulletproof. They say anyone who wears the armor suffers no damage. Even more say that when the King comes we don't need the armor, nor the weapons.
Our quartermaster showed us our weapons. Swords, a blade wrapped in a chain-blade, something that looks like a cross between a sword and a chainsaw. And a machine pistol called all prayer. 48 round magazines. Bullets lethal to the things you call demons, and what we call scum. And lets not forget our other weapons. "Blood" and "Testimony" One's an armor piercing automatic machine rifle. And the other is an armor piercing single shot round, with a blade attached. Now some of you are probably asking "Is this guy for real? He sounds a little off in the head." Yeah, so what if I do? The Irish don't like anyone telling them what to do, when to do it or when to lay off. We're a bunch of crazies you might say.
So, why'd I join? Maybe it's because I don't like seeing our world decay and die a little more every day. Maybe it's because I fear the wrath to come visit us, a wrath more terrible than anything we see now. I don't want us to be caught in that. And I don't want anyone caught in it. Except for those scum.
This was our first real operation. Not some skirmish or training. Everything's real. The bullets, the darts, the steel. Everything. Since we have so few members remaining, we have to split up. Two men to an assignment. My partner, Thyrion, is also a man's man. Sometimes criticized by bluehairs as too rough around the edges. You know the type. The older females who walk around like their God's gift to creation, and the only voice that matters. Apparently, someone didn't read about that whole griping session that Miriam had with Moses.
We head to what some would call the temple. I call it an abomination. Why? Because it's where they live. After all, we're about to do what we're called to do. Rile up some dark powers and principalities. The kind your mother warned you about except bigger, meaner, uglier. And then, we're going to destroy them. Cast them out. They happen to have my friend. In isolation. That's what our intelligence told us. And now we come to the real heart of it. One of the reasons I wanted this operation. Personal reasons. Perhaps some misguided priorities.
"Any man who doesn't hate his father or mother, his wife, his children, is not fit to be in this army."
At first, I thought it was hyperbole. But the more I began to read the writings, the more it became clear that maybe the King was serious. Deadly serious. Nothing could be higher than he. If you were in, you were all in. Hard as the King is, there are provisions for marriage. But I'm getting ahead of myself.
We arrive where they're holding her. Her name is Jess. The thought of anyone putting chains on her and putting her where they could torture her is enough to make any man's blood boil.
This is a small outpost. But we have to start somewhere. Numbers don't matter to us. Lives do. As we approach the gates, we see them. My friend demands their surrender. But surprise of surprises, the scum don't surrender. Good. It's better that way. I have some aggression to work out.
Now I'm sure some of you wonder why I'm about to tell this battle story and demand that it be told to your children and to your children's children. The reason is because we must never forget why we were put here, why we were pulled from the mire, why we have been chosen. Every man, woman and child who signs on for the army must not make this decision lightly. This is war. This is not for the faint, nor the weak, not the double minded, and certainly not for the cowards.
Our all prayer was out first, round after round emptied into the demons from hell. Weakened, yes... but as you all well know, it takes more than that to banish a demon. Their blood was indeed staining the ground, some of them howling in anger and pain. But these foul smelling wretches did not deserve a quick death. And I'm thankful that they are hearty stock. Heartier stock equals more whacks and more bullets.
Next out was the Blood. A few finally went down under its report. Back to back we stood, covering for each other. And sure enough, the darts and the bullets were bouncing off of the armor. Soon came the weapon Testimony. One or two fell. I slit one more open at its throat
out of desperation as we were pressed on every side. But we did not falter. We stood firm.
And now we get to it. The real weapon. The masterwork. The sword. Hand to hand combat. A more personal touch. The bloodletting was getting ugly. Limbs and legs, entrails and heads were lying scattered on the killing floor. It might as well have been an altar of old. Soon, we were down to the last of the sons of hell. I ran him through.
"That... was for my friend."
I turned on the blade with a flick of the switch on the hilt.
"This is a message for your master. Go back to hell and tell him that the armies of God will no longer be held back and we will not surrender one more inch of ground. The Kingdom of heaven suffers violence. But the violent take it by force."
The chain-blade made the body jolt in its death throes and blood stained the ground. I returned the gore soaked blade to its rightful place on my back. I marched into the hall and with the help of all prayer, the captive Jess was freed.
Unfortunately, the myth of the armor protecting against EVERY wound is somewhat exaggerated. There were a few bullets that will at most leave scarring. But this isn't the dog and pony show. This is war. And in war, it's expected that someone bleeds a little for the cause. The
important thing is all of our vital areas are protected. The King, who provides us with the armor, has seen to that.
It has been a year and a half since that battle. And every day, we get a little closer with our small ragtag group. Some of our older soldiers have gone home to be with their King. The rest of us continue on, winning victory after victory because the Great King is with us and he continues to supply our every need.
So now I come to ask the men, women and children of the army reserves. I come to ask them for their help. The King has not created the reserves. That is something of our own doing. I am here
to remind the army that we are not home yet. We are still on this side of the war. And we must continue to press the attack until the King says otherwise.
The fight is hard. Not every battle is won, we are pressed on every side, but we will not falter. We are struck down, but we are not destroyed. But we are getting tired. We cannot hold off the
counterattack by ourselves. Every soldier must do their part. If twelve of us can hold off this fierce resistance, imagine what the rest of us can do. Finally, I would remind the army that when we signed on, our comfort was not guaranteed. For those of you who are fighting, you have my thanks. But I warn you... any man who is not determined to put themselves all in is not fit for service. They are not worthy. Consider your choice. But if you see as I do, and you feel
as I do, then pick up your weapons and put on your armor.
The Lord reigns, let the earth be glad... and let the saints rejoice because the King is passing by, with sword and shield, mighty to save, ready to fight in the day of battle. Now until Him who is able be all glory and honor and praise. Because he alone is worthy.
Monday, July 28, 2008
Manifesto -- Part 1
So, why the need for another blog? Haven't we already got enough of these? Maybe. But I know this much. This site wants to be a little different. Rather than just simply discuss all the status quo issues all the time, I also want to go through studies of our training manual. This is a man blog, not just a blog about Men's issues. I want to tackle them from a biblical perspective.
As I said at the beginning of this blog, Spiritual Warfare is a lost art. Pastors are either too naive to tackle it, or too sensational about it. This is a topic that's really been... burning within me as of late. This is something I really want to tackle. However, this is going to require much prayer and study, so forgive me if I don't jump on this topic right away.
As I said at the beginning of this blog, Spiritual Warfare is a lost art. Pastors are either too naive to tackle it, or too sensational about it. This is a topic that's really been... burning within me as of late. This is something I really want to tackle. However, this is going to require much prayer and study, so forgive me if I don't jump on this topic right away.
As some will note, there are blogs that do worry me. Typically, these are folks who have a theology that:
A. Men have a period of extended adolescence. Said period is wrong/sinful/frowned on.
B. Men aren't committing to marriage, and are therefore sinning. Men should therefore stand in line and get a spouse lest he "deprive a wife of a husband."
C. Men should shoulder all of the responsibility/risk involved with marriage as he is head of house.
D. Men should quit complaining about these issues/"perceived" wrongs and "act like a man."
Marriage is indeed under attack, but I would argue that it suffers as much from its endorsers as it does from its detractors. Now. There's much good arguments for these. Some of these I've made and will repost here soon.
But these are not the only issues that men face. There's others that he faces in his church, such as:
A. Lack of a male rolemodel. I content that Jesus is the ultimate man, the last Adam, the final perfected blueprint of what a man should be. If a man is called to be more like His God, then emasculating him is not only unacceptable, but also crosses into the sacriligious and heretical. As Jada and I have indicated to each other many times, "The Lion of Judah is not tame... but he is good." This Lion roams about the pages of the New Testament as well as the Old, demanding that we step up and follow him. His command follow me, is not an optional, sweet platitude, but a terse command. Follow Me, and I'll make you fishers of men. That is... if you're man enough. If you're a man, you will set aside all other commitments and make them subservient to my will.
B. Lack of instruction in Spiritual Warfare. This again touches on something I've said earlier. There are no warriors to defend the community when the chips are down and the enemy is attacking.
C. The increase of the religion of the nice. War is ugly. Sometimes Jesus isn't that nice, sweet, cosmic boyfriend we sing about. So why in the name of all that is holy, do we profess to be part of a religion of nice? Jesus wouldn't say that. Jesus wouldn't do that. Jesus wouldn't carry a gun. Jesus wouldn't be judgmental. Hogwash. If Jesus showed up on the doorstep of our churches, we'd toss him out for being too unChristlike.
D. The expectation that a man's masculinity is checked at the door. You're going to sing something that sounds like Michael Bolton, hear about feelings and listen to a monologue that you're expected to take notes on, shake hands with people you have no intention of meeting with after service and will probably never see again. And worse, you don't do these things, you're a bad church goers. A bad Christian. Blue Haired ladies will frown and shake their finger at you. I know. I've been there. I've had those glares.
These are the views that the church has typically espoused for the past... say twenty years or so. (There's good scholarship that can show this going back further. For further study, I'm going to give a cheap and shameless plug for "Why Men Hate Going to Church" by David Murrow.)
And then there's society, which tends to espouse the view that men are nothing more than stupid oafs, searching for the next woman to bed, liars, cheaters, manipulators and abusers of all things feminine. Is it any wonder I don't watch TV anymore?
This is what a man faces, day in, day out. He has little hope that things will change. Why? Because society has marred his rightful place of headship, making him little more than a Jester, corporations have become little more than endorsed, legal slavery and his church has all but cast him out of the public square, telling him that he doesn't measure up. Is it any wonder that men are more likely to commit suicide than women?
The fact is, that men have a place given to Him by God as head of House. God has given him a purpose (to subdue the earth) without which a man dies. And God has given to him the one thing that matters more than anything else, something that all men should remember in these dark times. God created Man in the image of God. That image was never revoked, but it was marred. And this image can only be repaired and renewed by the Last Adam, who has given to men the responsibility of Following Christ and to worship him. That act of worship is service.
Man has a noble destiny. A great adventure and journey is set before him. The question is whether or not you will pick up your armor, your sword and begin to train. That's why the training grounds exist. That's why the church should exist.
But perhaps, I'm not making myself clear. For those who relate to stories, then the next post will be for you. I can only hope that I will be clear.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
