A Pilgrim's Progress: My Life as a Christian

What happens when a Homeless person is given $100,000?

2010-06-01T04:11:00.008-04:00

Reversal of Fortune:

What Happens When A Homeless Man Is Given $100,00?

Today I watched a documentary about a certain experiment: what would happen if a homeless man is given $100,000? While I think it was a good and noble thing to give such a substantial amount of money to this man, I firmly believe that money, in and of itself, could never solve problem affecting him, or anyone else for that matter. While money may help for a period - and the film does show this - it will not; indeed it could not, totally assuage the root of the problem. This, after all, is the crux of the matter - the "root issue." Once when asked by Time Magazine "what is wrong with the world," famed writer G.K. Chesterton wrote, in pithy fashion, the following reply:

"Dear sir,

In response to your question 'what is wrong with the world,'

I am. Yours Truly,

G.K. Chesterton."

What Chesterton aimed in conveying is simply what Jesus taught when he said, "for from within, out of the heart of man, come evil thoughts, sexual immorality, theft, murder, adultery" (Mark 7:21). The problem with man isn't homelessness, famine, wars, or any of these things that truly plagues the human race, but rather man himself, who is the cause of all these things. As I watched this documentary, my heart broke for this man. I did not know him, but I didn't need to. I only needed to know myself, and what the bible says of man to accurately guess what would be the outcome of such a generous gift. The outcome? By the end of 6 months, the man who was given such an amazing gift, totally squandered it all. You may ask after reading this, "if money cannot help man in his situation, what will?" I answer in the words of Jesus, "that which is flesh is flesh...you must be born again." What does this mean? It means that we are born sinners; we are weak and prone to do that which is consistent to our fallen nature. We must be born again - i.e., undergo a spiritual birth given by God himself. This new birth will give power to go against the sin that comes so natural to us.

This is the true cure! It entails a heart and mind change (the born again phenomenon), which goes right to the root of the problem. Money will not cure the problem of greed or laziness or the numerous addictions that the man in the film had, but a change in the very being of the man will. If he is a lover lusting - as the film demonstrated, the cure is to change him from being a lover of lusting, to hating it. This is the power of God in his gospel. This is the truth, and it will set anyone who aims to be free, free indeed

For a more detailed synopsis of the film, please visit the following website here.

My And 1 Video..The Bootleg Version

2010-05-25T01:59:00.000-04:00

Reign in us - Starfield

2010-05-03T01:34:00.003-04:00

Reign in us - Starfield

A Song That Speaks To Me: All I Have Is Christ

2010-05-03T01:27:00.000-04:00

ALL I HAVE IS CHRIST

I once was lost in darkest night

Yet thought I knew the way

The sin that promised joy and life

Had led me to the grave

I had no hope that You would own

A rebel to Your will

And if You had not loved me first

I would refuse You still

But as I ran my hell-bound race

Indifferent to the cost

You looked upon my helpless state

And led me to the cross

And I beheld God’s love displayed

You suffered in my place

You bore the wrath reserved for me

Now all I know is grace

Hallelujah! All I have is Christ
Hallelujah! Jesus is my life

Now, Lord, I would be Yours alone

And live so all might see

The strength to follow Your commands

Could never come from me

Oh Father, use my ransomed life

In any way You choose

And let my song forever be

My only boast is You

My 2nd Video Blog Update

2010-04-22T20:13:00.000-04:00

Stop Worshipping And Idolizing Celebrity Preachers by Paul Washer

2010-04-01T20:20:00.003-04:00

Quote of the Day

2010-03-29T15:22:00.001-04:00

“People tell me judge not lest ye be judged. I always tell them, twist not scripture lest ye be like satan." - Paul Washer

Mark Driscoll - Proverbs and Planning

2010-02-08T21:06:00.000-05:00

I need this. How about you?

Middle Aged White Woman Rapping about Jesus

2010-02-03T21:53:00.000-05:00

This is way too cool!!

Frankie Lymon & The Teenagers - Why Do Fools Fall In Love

2010-01-31T02:48:00.000-05:00

I must have an old soul? This is beautiful music!

Quote of the Day by Neil Gaiman

2010-01-20T13:25:00.003-05:00

"I've made a list of the things they don't teach you at school. They don't teach you how to love somebody. They don't teach you how to be famous. They don't teach you how to be rich or how to be poor. They don't teach you how to walk away from someone you don't love any longer. They don't teach you how to know what's going on in someone else's mind. They don't teach you what to say to someone who's dying. They don't teach you anything worth knowing." -Neil Gaiman

Lecrae's Story (HD 1080p)

2010-01-20T13:23:00.003-05:00

Lecrae's Story

Watch "The Blind Side" movie

2010-01-19T01:15:00.003-05:00

How should Christians react to Haiti's recient Earthquake?

2010-01-15T21:19:00.010-05:00

"For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them." - Eph 2:10

Recently, I was disappointed to find that some Christians were telling others that "the earthquake in Haiti was God's judgment on the Haitians for making a pat with Satan." Whether or not that statement is true is of no consequence to me, and I will not deal with the historicity of that report. What does concern me however, and what I will deal with in this blog, is how we are to react to such a tragedy. Before I begin on that issue, let me first remind the readers of a story taken out of Luke's account in the Bible (Luke 13:2-4) .

Jesus once told a story about a tower falling on about 18 people in a town called Siloam. After telling the story, he asked the question, "do you think the people who died in the accident are any worse sinners than those who live in Jerusalem?" To which he replied, "No! And unless you (those in Jerusalem) repent, you too will likewise perish." There are many things that could be said on this story, but I only use it as a platform from which I will give an answer to the question the blog asks. Are the people of Haiti more wicked that we in the United States? Well, quite obviously someone may say, "they practice voodoo as their religion, and commit ungodly crimes." Well, have you not read..."all we like sheep have gone astray" and "all have sinned and fallen short of God's glory?" God is no respecter of persons, and he does not choose one sinner over another, based on the sinner. As it is written..."God has mercy on whom he has mercy, and compassion on whom he has compassion."

Any sinner, whether Haitian or American, does not merit God's mercy based on their sin. Again, "all have sinned, and have come under the just judgment of God." Rather - and this must be seen if any humility is to be birthed in us - the evidence of God's mercy on a particular person, is that the person does not sin as much as they could. All persons have certain proclivities to produce great and terrible evils, it is the sovereign God of the universe who curtails, and altogether frustrates our sinful desires. So all that being said, I would have to say that the Haitians sins aren't any worse than ours here in the US (not to mention, we here do some pretty wicked things too!). So why did the earthquake occur in Haiti and not here? My answer is simple: I don't know. I honestly don't know. And, since the Bible doesn't tell me as a Christian why God allows calamity in one place, and prosperity in another, I cannot in truth or sincerity tell you why Haiti is suffering. What I can tell you however, is that Haiti is suffering! I can also tell you why God saves people; the heading gives a hint - "for good works and to bring Glory to the Father."

So all that being said, what are you doing to help people in need, Christian? I know that all aren't able to be there physically, but there are other ways you can help. You can give to the missionaries and other organizations there. Honestly speaking, all help is good help to the Haitian people right now. However, if you are a Christian, there is more at stake here than just being good and moral people. We are not solely a "nice people" who help others when in need. We exist for more. We exist as walking and living reminders - reminders that point to the love and mercy of Jesus Christ. There is more at stake here than just physical and temporal needs (that is a need, and I pray you would help in any way you could!). Eternity coming. Jesus' words is still applicable today - "unless you repent, you too would perish in hell." So how are we as Christian people to act?

We are to be a loving and sympathetic people who pray and give! We pray until we've prayed, and until God the All Mighty One hears us, and we give as if it were us in need. More than that, we are to take the good news of the gospel (which incidentally is seen for which it is intended - namely good news, often times in times of great despair) to a people who, just like everyone else, will one day die. Whether we die in an earthquake or in our beds is of little importance. What is important, however, is if we died as sinners who have been reconciled to God via faith in God's sacrifice, Jesus Christ.

If you would like to give to a creditable ministry who has been doing God's work in Haiti for awhile, please send your donations to:

Heritage Baptist Church

3585 Thruston Dermont Rd.

Owensboro, KY 42303

In car of Keith Maddy for Haiti

Slamonline Presents God Shammgod

2010-01-14T22:33:00.001-05:00

This dude had the smoothest crossover move I ever saw!

Decisional Regeneration: Paul Washer Interview

2010-01-11T21:17:00.000-05:00

Repent and Witness

2010-01-06T02:00:00.002-05:00

Join us as we evangelize one of the most diverse

cities in the world! Meet colorful residents and tourists
from thousands of miles away. Give them the message
that they may never hear in their home country.
This 4-day mission trip includes:
• Training
• One-to-one evangelism
• Open-air street preaching
• Subway preaching
• Street Prayer Station
• Group prayer and worship

• Morning devotional for men/women
• The Word of God
Locations: Queens, New York and various locations in
New York City, including Times Square, Union Square
Park, NYC subway system, Madison Square Garden,
Staten Island Ferry, Penn Station, and Battery Park.
Apply Today!
www.ChangeYourCampus.com
Dates: Thursday, August 5th, 2010 - Monday, August 9th, 2010
Application Deadline: April 1st, 2010
Mission Cost: $299 ($75 deposit due April 1st, remaining $224 due May 1st)

Lecrae Moore: Finding a Father in God

2010-01-06T01:17:00.001-05:00

Lecrae on the 700 Club

Happy New Year 2010

2010-01-03T02:29:00.002-05:00

Happy New Year

I remember last year. Sort of. It went so fast! I can remember writing my "happy new year 2009 blog," and now its already 2010. Wow. I only desire one thing. Lord, at any cost, please make me more like Jesus. Only give grace to go through the means you choose, so that I would endure.

When Lord? When Will You Come?

2010-01-03T02:20:00.002-05:00

"A praying man stops sinning, and a sinning man stops praying."

Xbox Unveils Hands Free Gaming

2009-12-29T16:55:00.000-05:00

Xbox' Hands-Free Gaming Coming Soon!

Merry Christmas!!!

2009-12-25T00:28:00.004-05:00

Joy To The World - The Lord Is Come!!

It is that time of year again, and I could literally cry! Today we celebrate invasion day - the day in which God incarnated into the world. The Savior came into the world to save sinners. "For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son [the Lord Jesus Christ], that whoever believes in Him should not die, but have eternal life." Oh thank you God! Make me to thank you more, I desire you!!

Lauryn Hill - Tell Him

2009-12-08T17:46:00.002-05:00

Great Song! If you would like a FREE download, let me know.

Friends: Your Biggest Problem is that God is Love

2009-11-27T03:03:00.001-05:00

I heard a story once. It was a terrible and tregic tail

about the injustice of racism in 1965. You see, there was once this young African American medical student who, while visiting his parents home in Alabama, ran into a problem with some Klu Klux Klan members. Appearently - as the story goes - at a local gas station, some members of the Klan started to make threats at the young man. Undaunted by the numerous and fowl remarks, the young man finished up at the station and perceeded to his car to randevoze at his parent's house. The members of the Klan followed in a distance, carefully remaining incogito. After some time watching the young man go into the house, the members of the klan knocked on the door, and waited for the young black man to answer the door.

What happened next is too shocking for words, and I will refraim from going into detial. I will, however, give the jist of the events. The Klans men, six in total, rushed into the house with weapons, and proceeded to beat to death the parents of the young man. The reason they left the young man alive, they said, was that he might "see that he would have no way to prove what occured, and so live the rest of his life knowing that there is no justice for niggers." After the incident, the young man was shocked to find that his next door neighor, a white man, saw everything and even took pictures while the incident occred. Some weeks later, at the trail of the murders, the witness presented his evidence before a judge in court. What proceeded to come out of the judge's mouth, would create pandemonium and cause everyone in the court room to be astounded in utter surprise.

"I understand that you have evidence of the murder, and I understand that this is indeed a tragedy. However, I liken myself to a good and merciful judge. It is the ruling of this court therefore, that these men experience forgiveness and go free." A strange silence struck the courtroom, as all seem stunned by the words of the judge. After the strange silence, followed an unanimous eruption of anger; no one more angry than the young man who's parents were murdered. "This judge is more wicked than the criminasl he allows free," shouted one seated in a row seat. Another asked in tears, "where's the justice!" and with that came the shouts "no peace, no justice...no peace, not justice!"

The story you've just read is based on a popular caricature that people have of God's nature. They assume that because God is good, he will therefore pardon their many guilt and sins. While they may assume that God does not see there sins aren't as grotesque as the one told in the story, the fact of the matter is that there is no sin hierarchy God. I present to you now the Holy God of the bible, the one who is known as a "consuming fire" of infinite holiness. He has said that "if you looked in lust, you are guilty of adultery," and that "if you are angry with someone without cause, it as as murder." Moreover, he has commended that we love Him above all things and everyone. Who has kept these laws? Which of us has never lied or looked in lust, or failed to love God as we ought to love him - namely with all of our hearts, minds, soul, and strength?

If you recognize your failure to keep these fair demands (which by the way he made for our benefit), as I have, then look to the One God provided on Sinner's behalf. There is a Savior - one who has NEVER sinned. Furthermore, since the absolute and everlasting love of God's character demands justice to be given for every wrong deed done, the Savior died in the stead of all those who repent and trust in him alone (not their own presumed worth or goodness) for their justification. Even more, the Savor, Jesus, rose from the grave and ever lives to help his people. He saves and jusifly reconciles sinners back to a just and Loving God. Please, do not assume that because God is love that he will forgive you of your sins. Unlike the judge in the Story, God's love Demands justice, therefore obey God's command. Here is the King's mandate: Repent and trust in Jesus ALONE for your justification. Then, and ONLY then, will you come to know the Love of God. It is not a small and fickle love that you may triffle with. Rather, it is a love that is true and deep and wonderous in power. It is a love to fear. All those who know it may delight in such a fear!

Lincoln Brewster - Surrender

2009-11-25T03:35:00.001-05:00

"...I'm giving you my heart, and all that is within. I lay it all down, for the sake of you, my King."

Jeremy Camp - Give me Jesus

2009-11-25T01:13:00.002-05:00

"You can have all this world, just give me Jesus."

Apathy: Man's True Scapegoat

2009-11-16T17:12:00.001-05:00

"O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, the city that kills the prophets and stones those who are sent to it! How often would I have gathered your children together as a hen gathers her brood under her wings, and you would not! (Luke 13:34)"

What is it about Christ that is so repulsive? Many men would readily admit that he was a good man, and that he did many good things. Yet, when it comes to following him - and I mean really following him, not just doing good deeds and/or going to church to appease guilty consciences - Jesus stands alone weeping over the multitude who would sooner assume ignorance to be bliss, than actually care to know Christ. To quote C.S. Lewis regarding Jesus' question, namely "who do men say that I am?" Lewis wrote..."I feel that in a society such as ours, men must come to terms with the claims of Christ upon their life or else be guilty of evading the question." And so it is: men would rather have apathy, and not the Savior, as their scapegoat.

Now lest I paint the wrong picture and so perpetuate the popular caricature, I will say the following. Jesus Christ is no tame lion (to quote Lewis again). Do not assume as some do, that Jesus is some emotional deity too weak to save the people he loves; but must, by some irrational and unintelligible law, send the ones whom he loves to hell. Christ "WILL save all those whom he intends" (John 17:2, etc). Christ is God. As God, he commands "all people everywhere to repent and trust in Jesus' finish work for the forgiveness of their sins." This is the King's mandate, and it is NOT negotiable! While it is indeed true that God would rather sinners to "repent" because "he finds no pleasure in their sufferings" in hell (Ezk 18:23, etc.), it is equally true that God WILL send sinners to hell if they do not comply to his commands. And his command is this:

Repent from your ways of doing this. You will not earn God's favor by your own deeds and righteousness. You MUST trust in Jesus. It is he that lived a perfect life (having NEVER sinned; whether in thought or action), and died as a sacrifice to both show the justice of God, and to make it possible for a Holy and Good God to justly justify sinners. Moreover, it is Christ who rose from the grave to prove to History that he is no normal man, but God in the flesh. Finally, it is he who sits at the right hand of the Father to offer prayers for all those who trust in Him.

Beethoven Romance Violin by Ann Fontanella

2009-11-04T21:46:00.000-05:00

Download Here

Life Stinks - Trust Jesus (A Sermon on Suffering with Joy) by Pastor Steve

2009-11-03T19:32:00.002-05:00

How Should Christians Respond to Suffering?

In this sermon, Pastor Steve explains how a Christian should have a sincere joy in serious suffering

1 Peter 1:3-9

Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! According to his great mercy, he has caused us to be born again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, to an inheritance that is imperishable, undefiled, and unfading, kept in heaven for you, who by God's power are being guarded through faith for a salvation ready to be revealed in the last time. In this you rejoice, though now for a little while, if necessary, you have been grieved by various trials, so that the tested genuineness of your faith—more precious than gold that perishes though it is tested by fire—may be found to result in praise and glory and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ. Though you have not seen him, you love him. Though you do not now see him, you believe in him and rejoice with joy that is inexpressible and filled with glory, obtaining the outcome of your faith, the salvation of your souls. (ESV)

Listen Here:

Download Here:

Paul Washer's Story

2009-10-31T16:35:00.006-04:00

Brother Paul discusses how he became a Christian

Wow - Amazing!

Clerk Expresses Compassion for Robber

2009-10-22T21:04:00.002-04:00

Click on image to see the video

Store clerk Angela Montez believes it was divine intervention that led a would-be robber to give up his heist and talk and pray with her for nearly 40 minutes Monday before turning himself in to Indianapolis police hours later. "I believe the Lord sent us both together," Montez told "Good Morning America" today. "The more we talked, he just broke down. ... He said, 'Talk to me. No one will talk to me. I have nobody.'"

Surveillance cameras recorded video of an armed man, alleged to be the suspect, 23-year-old Gregory L. Smith of Indianapolis, jumping over the counter at a check cashing store where Montez worked and pointing a gun at her Monday. Montez, fearing for her life, broke down, crying and praying.

"I can't even explain the feeling of a gun," she said. "I remember looking at the silver gun, and the finger was on the trigger. I thought, 'This is it.'"

Free Tim Keller Sermons

2009-10-22T15:19:00.008-04:00

Redeemer’s Sermon Ministry has been faithfully recording, cataloging and reproducing all of our sermons for the past 20 years. To celebrate all 20 years of our history, and to meet the growing demand for our church’s teaching in New York City and around the world, we have created this resource of 150 sermons and lectures covering a broad array of topics, completely free to download and share. Read more here:

In Honor of National Black Poetry Day

2009-10-22T13:26:00.008-04:00

This Poem was featured on another Blog. Click on title to visit that blog

In Honor of National Black Poetry Day

'TWAS mercy brought me from my Pagan land,
Taught my benighted soul to understand
That there's a God, that there's a Saviour too:
Once I redemption neither sought nor knew,
Some view our sable race with scornful eye,
'Their colour is a diabolic die.'
Remember, Christians, Negroes, black as Cain,
May be refin'd, and join th' angelic train.

Phillis Wheatley.

Chuck Swindoll's Pastoral Accountability Questions

2009-10-22T13:10:00.013-04:00

Chuck Swindoll's Pastoral Accountability Questions:

In his book, The Body, Chuck Colson lists the questions used by Chuck Swindoll.

1. Have you been with a woman anywhere this past week that might be seen as compromising?

2. Have any of your financial dealings lacked integrity?

3. Have you exposed yourself to any sexually explicit material?

4. Have you spent adequate time in Bible study and prayer?

5. Have you given priority time to your family?

6. Have you fulfilled the mandates of your calling?

7. Have you just lied to me?

Jesus Thank You

2009-10-18T20:20:00.005-04:00

Download Song

Hallelujah! All I have is Christ

2009-10-18T20:07:00.001-04:00

Download Song

David Lowe on Jonathan Edwards' Sermon

2009-10-17T17:47:00.011-04:00

Sinners in the Hands of an Angry God

Judge for yourself. Click on title to hear Sermon

I have a friend named David. Wet met online some 5 years ago, when I was very much into End Times theology, and waiting for the rapture to occur. I was doing a Google search for a Pastor named Perry Stone (who we both no longer listen to incidentally), and David's website came up. David and I remain friends till this day, but our friendship has become a little distant when we both adhered to opposite ends of the theological rope, so to speak. I became reformed in my understand of scripture, while David gravitated towards Arminian theology. The changed occurred this way:

David asked me once, "what will you say to a person who asks, 'why will I be judged by God if I was born with a condition that makes me love what God hates - speaking of sin - and born when I didn't ask to be born?'" I remember that the question had little effect on me, initially. I gave a flippant response; something like..."disregard the question, and tell him how he has broken God's laws to bring about an awareness of his sins." Yet, as time went on, the question began to strike me as one with weight. I couldn't shake the feeling that if such a question was posed, the questionnaire would have a great point. For months the question pressed on my mind and conscience, until I became angry with God. The question made God seem unfair and at fault for countless sinners going to hell's infinite torment. Yet, ironically enough, it was that question that lead me to a closer relationship with God. Needless to say, today Dave and I have some disagreements on how we see certain scriptures. This brings me to the point of my blog. Recently, while speaking about Jonathan Edward's famous Sermon, "Sinners in the Hands of an Angry God," Dave said the following:

"I don't like the sermon because it is not biblical. It is not in the Spirit of Christ. It uses fear and manipulation to get people to repent. This is not how Jesus and the apostles preached. It leads to false conversions based on a fear of burning in hell forever. Rather, conversion should be based on the gospel: that Jesus Christ conquered death, died for our sins, and is exalted at the right hand of God. He commands all men everywhere to repent."

My aim in this blog isn't to defend Edward's work (I feel it does a good enough job on its own merit), but simply to address some of the comments and concerns that Dave brings up as his argument. With that being established, let us continue on in the endeavor at hand. First, on the issue of the sermon "using fear and manipulation to get people to repent." This statement assumes that Jesus or scripture for that matter, never uses fear as one of many motivators in leading someone to Christ. This simply isn't true. The scriptures clearly say..." by the fear of the LORD one turns away from evil" (Proverb 16:6). And lest one would say, "but that is the Old Testament - Jesus never taught this," as if it were a valid argument, we would do well to remember Christ' words... "I will show you who to fear. Fear him who can destroy both soul and body in hell" (Matt 10:28). I trust that these scriptures will suffice in showing that the premise for David's conclusion is faulty. And since the premise is as such, the conclusion no doubt will be in error. Second, concerning Dave's feelings that the sermon will "leads to false conversions based on a fear of burning in hell forever."

I feel this to be a legitimate argument; partly because I know Dave's heart in evangelism, and because fear could be a potential stumbling block if it is used wrongly. I think if one uses fear of hell without first explaining man's guilt, and then explaining Christ' glory in saving us from such a place, a person could in fact get the wrong idea, and thus end up being a false convert. I myself had experience with this. Some time before my conversion, I heard about the rapture and the Great Tribulation, and so I reformed my life to ensure that I wouldn't be left behind. Yet, I was in no way born again. In fact, I didn't even understand why Jesus was so precious, or why God would call me - and otherwise good boy - an evil person. So with all that being said, I want to acknowledge David's concern. Nevertheless, this concern does still stem from a false assumption (one we already dealt with above), and therefore should not deter believers from using the fear that should arise from preaching the realities of God's wrath in Hell. Finally, I think it worthwhile to mention my conjecture on this issue. I believe that Dave's contention with such a classic sermon, derives from a livid disdain for Calvinism. And because this is so - if in fact this is the case - then nothing I say will change his mind.

Its cool though, Dave...you're still my dude!

On Fasting

2009-10-16T16:44:00.005-04:00

click on image to visit author's page

Fasting. In Christian circles the term is very known. Most think of it as a day of not eating, if you can manage not to eat for that long. Most consider it a daunting task to not eat for an entire day but endeavor to do so to draw closer to God. It's often easy to forget the reason behind fasting. As Christians, we are commanded to fast in the Bible so it can often feel like another thing that should be done. Some Christians never fast.

But I believe that fasting can be done with not just food. I think that you can fast from anything that comes between you and God. Sometimes it's hard to judge what is most important to you. But I challenge you to figure out what you spend your most time doing. Ok I know some of you are in school right now and I don't think anyone would consider school as something they want to come between themselves and God. But school can be detrimental to your spiritual life. It can come from our ungodly obsession with being busy. Have you ever considered that God commands us to "be still and know that I Am God." That requires us to...Be still! Not moving, not busy, not interrupted by anything. I think we can over overvalue busyness and think people are not living up to their full potential when they are not running around constantly.

So, perhaps this is a call for you to put down what has been getting in the way of living your life completely sold out for Christ. I'm not saying that it will be easy but dying on a cross so that we could be forgiven wasn't easy either. And that is just one of the many things that God has done for us, how can we withhold anything that we are capable of giving to Him?

~Jess Gray

DJ Hero

2009-10-15T22:31:00.003-04:00

Video Games | DJ Hero | Mashup Mondays Week I

XBox 360 | Playstation 3 | Nintendo Wii

I can't remember the last time I played my X-box 360, but I think this game will bring me out of retirement.

My Beef with dudes and Skinny Jeans

2009-10-11T22:19:00.002-04:00

To Whom it may concern:

Let me begin by saying the following. This is not the wild rantings of a homophobe, or an advocate for dudes wearing baggy jeans. I just feel a certain degree on passion on this topic. Men, please hear my heart on this issue. Let me start off by telling a short story. This is a true story.

Once, while waiting in the DMV, I observed a guy get up from the chair parallel to mine. Apparently he thought his number was called, but noticed the mistake as he stood, looked as his paper, and sat back down. This was all I needed to shake my head in sorrow. Yes, you read right...I said sorrow. Let me explain. As the guy sat, I noticed that he tried to put the paper into his front pants pocket, but to no avail. As he shoved and shoved, the paper began to tear. Finally, in a bit of frustration, he stood up and attempted to complete his task. By now his pants legs were pulled upward to his calf, and I could see the dirty socks he wore. Now dirty sock aside - that's another topic altogether - these were jeans, ladies and gentlemen. Jeans! Jeans don't ride up to your calves. They're not supposed to! Finally, he saw me looking.

My eyes had been fixed on his eternal struggle, and a smirk formed at the sides of my mouth. I couldn't help laugh, it was really funny! As he looked at me, he couldn't help feel a sense of embarrassment. I noticed the red on his face and neck (no pun). Then something surprising happened. His face became angry, and he said to me..."you got a problem?" "Nah! I'm sure you have a mirror; you knew what you were getting into when you choose those pants," I retorted. I suppose my bold response shocked him, as he could only laugh and shake his head saying..."good one...good one." I laughed too.

Now that story aside, here's why you shouldn't wear skinnies, fellas. It looks gay! No diss to gay people, but if you're straight, just look the part! Be men, wear fitting jeans. Seriously, the effeminate metro sexual style that seems to plague this generation, just isn't cool. I'm not saying that I have a monopoly on what's "cool," I'm just saying that if you put a dollar in your front pocket, and four quarters pops out the back, then you have officially succeeded in making me uncomfortable.

OK, Im done with my venting. Truly sorry if this offends you!

My Allegorical Story about the Emergent Church

2009-10-10T20:03:00.006-04:00

The Ripple Effect

From Reality to Relativeville

I still remember well the first time we met. In fact, I don't think it possible for me to ever forget. It seems that some things remain with you forever, no matter how much you'd like for it to leave. I met Mr. Convert on one of my frequent trip to the town of Relativeville.

I was leaving Reality, a huge city in the capital of Absolution, the place where I was born, and boarding the first train to Relativeville. I noticed Mr. Convert right away. Unlike everyone else who took the train trip, Mr. Convert stuck out like a sore thumb. I watched as he boarded the trained, maneuvered his way passed other passengers, and ever so calmly sat down parallel towards me - we were about arm's length from each other.

"Hello, I'm Christian. Christian Convert" were his first words, and he leaned forward to shake my hand.

"Sectarian. Sean P Sectarian. Nice to meet you." I continued, "Is this your first trip to Relativeville?"

"Yes sir, and I'm very excited about the visit."

"What sort of business do you do?" I asked.

"I am a speaker for the truth movement and I'm on my way to a business meeting where some partners and I will discuss how to implement strategic ways to relate truth to the people of Relativeville. I hear they reject universal truth there and I was hoping to speak with some of the people and try to understand why they deny such orthodoxy."

In that second everything changed. "How dare you! Who are you to tell people what is truth and what isn't?" The bold shout came from a younger woman not far from us.

I interjected, "Miss, what is your name?"

"I'm sorry, but I over heard you and Mr. Convert's conversation and I believe it is wrong for him to make staunch and definite claims about truth. It is impossible for anyone to know truth, because truth cannot be known."

Undaunted by the vehement rebuke, Christian spoke. "I'm sorry but I didn't catch your name." She responded, "I didn't give it. But, since you asked, it's Antinomian. Miss Antinomian."

Christian: It's nice to meet you Miss Antinomian. I was wondering if you may be able to help me with something? You mentioned that 'it is impossible for anyone to know truth, because truth cannot be known.' From that I can tell you do not adhere to the orthodox ways, am I right?"

"Yes, you are right. The old ways were true for the people then because of their culture, but it is not the right way for all. Not all cultures are the same and I doubt very much that our founder and president will not pardon those who have never heard of his laws and ways."

Interested in her remark, I commented that I agreed with her estimation and proceeded to ask a question. "Christian, would you agree with Miss Antinomian and I that our President is a good and merciful man?"

"Yes sir, I do!"

"Then surely you agree Christian, that those who have not heard his laws and demands, as well as those who opt for a different way to follow his demands, will also find mercy from him?"

As Christian began to speak, he was interrupted by Miss Antinomian who exclaimed, "The President is a gracious man because he has already paid the debt that we as his citizens had owed by our own fault. Therefore, I am well in my right to live as I ought, for I am freed from my wages, and freedom is now mine to enjoy by right and as his gift to me."

I noticed the change in Christian's face. He showed concern as if what Miss Antinomian believed was a snare that would no doubt lead to grave danger. I thought to myself, "I do not understand this man."

Christian began to speak. "Have you read the manual that the president has left for us all? It states his laws and tells us that since we have all broken his laws, we are indebted to his justice. The laws weren't given to us for judging ourselves as just in the president’s estimation, for we all know that none has ever successfully kept the whole of the law. Rather, the laws were given to lead us to the means by which we may be found right in the president's estimation. You know the story of the President's gift - for he so loved us that he took upon himself the debt that was due to us all and paid it himself.

The innocent paid the ransom for the guilty, thereby justifying many. You all know that the President is more than just a loving man, but that he is also a man of justice and will not let the guilty go unpunished. Therefore, he has saw it fit to pay the price in our stead, and if we by the law which reveals our guilt, come to see our trespasses and trust in what the President has done for us, and not in what we ourselves can produce, we will be made right in his estimation. Moreover, we show that we trust him when we turn from our ways to his. It is by his grace that we have been made right with him. It is not deserved, nor is it merited."

Just then, another stood up to protest. "I too have read the President's manual and I don't at all see what you see. In fact, I have read of his goodness and love and mercy and grace. Where do you come off telling us that we must forsake our ways? Has he not given us freedom to do what we please?"

Christian: "Well sir, I am not sure if the last part of your question was rhetorical or not, but how about we start off by you telling me your name."

"Moralez. Nobel Moralez."

Christian: "And the woman with you?"

"Piety. My name is Piety. Nobel and I go to the University in Relativeville and we do not at all agree with you. In fact, as Nobel mentioned, we too have read the manual and do not see it as you do. I feel you should consider well what Miss Antinomian said some time before - that is - 'It is impossible for anyone to know truth, because truth cannot be known.' For you to look at the manual through your myopic view will not only cause parochialism, but also cause you to miss the big and obvious picture, namely that not everyone sees the same thing the same way."

With this, the whole of the cart erupted with applause, and with shouts and cheers they motioned grateful gestures at Piety. I watched Christian. I looked closely for any change in his demeanor, but there weren't any. He still had the confidence as if what he had to say was the only truth; though by now, he did show one thing different. I noticed his eyes and how they seemed to have both a sense of fear and love peering from them. I began to be somewhat puzzled over the dichotomy of his very visible emotional attributes.

As the cheers began to rest and the people readily awaited a rebuttal, Christian spoke. "Piety, would you consider yourself to be a good person?"

"Most assuredly, I would!" she replied.

"And, Nobel Moralez, would you consider yourself a noble and moral man?" Moralez wasted no time and emphatically answered yes.

Christian: "Piety, Nobel, Miss Antinomian, and Mr. Sectarian, as well as everyone else, please allow me to speak candidly for a moment. I am all too aware that we all see things differently and that because of this, we do not all arrive at the same conclusion, usually. I would therefore, like to perform a test to prove truth and our innate ability to know it. It is written in the President's manual that we should love him above the gifts that he gives us. Yet, who among us have kept that law and not esteemed the things which he freely gives as of more worth?

Oh, you say that you do not love the gift more than the gift giver himself, but who do you spend more time with? Futhermore, have you always put him first above everything else? All of you who are indebted to him for all of his graces, have you always given him the love he so deserves, or do you fall painfully short of it? It is also written within his manual that we should not give the praise due to him to another. Yet, which one of you have not changed the words in his manual to suit the "president" that you have shaped within your own mind?"

Does your president resemble the one described in the manual, or is he an image shaped with your own mind and imagination? Lastly, the President commanded in his manual that we ought to keep the day in which he deemed a holiday as precious. Yet, may of you do not keep that law, but instead work on that day of rest. Furthermore, many still transgress both the 2nd and 4th commandments by a holding a supposed sabbatical and serving a false president. Now, I am not asking if you agree with these laws or not, that is another topic altogether. I am, however, asking if you, like myself, have broken them? If you have, please raise your hand."

I watched as slowly but most assuredly, all the hands of the cart went up. Myself and Miss Antinomian were the last ones to raise our hands. Christian continued. "The President is a very powerful man. It is said of him in the manual through his servant Daniel, in chapter 4 v35 that, "the president does what he wants with his people and no one can stay his hand or say to him, 'why have you done this?' You all know too well his power and might. You all have heard about his armies and how in the book of 2 Kings 19:35 one of his agents were able to take out thousands of men and how he himself, by his word alone, is able to cause or stop any situation. You have heard of the endless depths of his wisdom and knowledge, and how unsearchable his judgments are. These things are recorded in the book of Romans, chapter 11 and verse 33. You have heard that his ways are not our own and that his thoughts surpass ours and that we are dwarfed by his surpassing greatness. You have heard and you do know this to be true. I will in no way suggest to you that if you choose to see things another way, that it will alter reality or cause these truths to be anything other than immutable. The President has demanded that everyone conform to his ways and that we trust in him alone, since we know that he is wiser than we. Yet, and notwithstanding the obvious, you choose to deny this truth.

And, you know what I say is true, for everything in you rebels against it. That is why you change the meanings of his manual and hold fast to other ideas. You would rather have your will done and not his. You, like those recorded in Psalm 2, rage and the plot in vain. You set yourselves up and take counsel together against our President and say, 'let us burst his bonds apart and cast away his cords from us.' Yet, the one that sits in office laughs and holds you in derision. He is a great leader who fears none, but is ready to forgive all who in humility, admits their guilt and turns from their ways to his. In his tender mercies, he will offer life and it more abundantly to those who seek forgiveness. You know his laws are true, for your consciences' testifies that they are right. Is this not what the manual teaches us? You must therefore, make the choice to receive or deny his ways. This is his mandate: That all who trust in him by turning from their own ways to his, and remain trusting in him, will be made right in his estimation."

Just then, I heard the train conductor's voice. "Next stop Relativeville." We were here. I noticed the clock, it was 9 am, the same as always. My trips from Reality to Relativeville were always short ones and today was no different. No one spoke, but with angry and hasty facial expressions, all got ready to leave as the doors were beginning to open. "About time!" Someone in the back anxiously exclaimed. A few teenagers snickered at his bold remark.

Christian looked at me as he got up to leave. "Have a good day," he said. I waved him goodbye as he left. Piety and Nobel walked behind him, seemingly confident that he was wrong and that they were good enough in the President's estimation.

I heard them as they left. "He is so wrong," Nobel said. Piety shook her head in agreement. “Last stop on the train” shouted the conductor. It was now 9:02 and the last two people were now making their exit.

I alone remained.

"Stop Following Me! (Evolution Spring Wear)"

2009-10-06T20:15:00.001-04:00

Jars of Clay - "Two Hands"

2009-10-06T00:59:00.002-04:00

Shai Linne ft. Evangel and Ant- As The Hour Draws Near/ Letter From the Grave

2009-10-03T00:06:00.000-04:00

J.R. Lights So Bright

2009-10-02T22:38:00.002-04:00

Here's more proof of God's diverse excellency - J.R.'s innovative sound!

Da Truth - Lost (Video)

2009-10-02T19:26:00.001-04:00

Da' T.R.U.T.H.'s "LOST" Music Video feat. Tia Pittman from CMR - ANTHEM Drops 10.6.09 on Vimeo.

Real Vid!

Weeping Over the Sovereignty of God - John Piper

2009-09-28T12:40:00.000-04:00

Temptations - I Want A Love I Can See

2009-09-12T21:10:00.000-04:00

And just think, this song wasn't even a hit when it came out. Crazy!

Repost of EdStetzer' Blog

2009-09-11T00:34:00.002-04:00

The NINES: Mission, Self, and God's Mission

Earlier today, I was one of 70 leaders who shared an idea or ideas (in 9 short minutes!) at The NINES. I streamed the presentations here at my blog and there was a robust discussion in the blog comments. As I hoped, there was good discussion around theology, mission, and ministry.

Now that the program has ended, I am sharing my presentation here at the blog.

Ed Stetzer - The 9s from LifeWay on Vimeo.

Here is my outline:

Mission, Self, and God's Mission

Mission is the opposite of self. We have to remember to make it about God and not about us.

Even pastors struggle with the reality that the heart is an idol factory. Your heart is an "Idol Factory" constantly creating things other than God to worship.

We must resist the pull of idols and live the mission-- to make it about God's Glory and His agenda.

We pastors too often consider ourselves as "religious professionals who can put on a show" rather than people transformed and sent on mission.

1. Those on mission focus on God's glory and His agenda
(Isaiah 6:1-8).

2. Those on mission reflect being with God
(2 Corinthans 3:16-18).

Trying to get people on mission who haven't been transformed by the gospel is a fool's errand.

3. Those on mission no longer live for themselves
(2 Corinthians 5:14-15).

It's not about thinking less of you; it's about thinking of you less.

I hope it is an encouragement to you.

Evangel's Response to Rakim's Holy Are You

2009-09-09T18:15:00.003-04:00

Remember Queens native rapper, Rakim? Sure you do. Well, he has a new song called "holy are you," where he makes a bunch of blasphemous charges about being the true God. While Rakim claims to have read the Bible - and I do not doubt that he has - I do not think he understands much of it. And, while the Lord Jesus himself promised that "man will give an account for every careless word he speaks," Rakim proves that for the one dead in his sins, "there is no fear of God before their eyes." Pray for Rakim! All that said, I like what Christian rap artist, Evangel has done. Listen to his song with the same title above. Also, if you're curious about what Rakim said in his own song, listen here:

"Holy Are You" by Rakim

Phillips, Craig and Dean - Revelation Song

2009-09-01T22:21:00.001-04:00

John Piper - The Protestant Work Ethic

2009-09-01T12:35:00.001-04:00

John Piper - Jesus Satisfies All Your Thirsts

2009-09-01T12:34:00.001-04:00

SoundClick Music Player

2009-08-31T12:37:00.002-04:00

Is God Frustrating Me?

2009-08-30T19:37:00.005-04:00

And the LORD said, "Behold, they are one people, and they have all one language, and this is only the beginning of what they will do. And nothing that they propose to do will now be impossible for them. Come, let us go down and there confuse their language, so that they may not understand one another's speech." - Genesis 11:6-7

Now I am often proud, so this "feeling" could be that. Also - and I say this to my own shame - I am one who darkens counsel by words without knowledge, so I don't doubt that I'm wrong here. Yet, all that being said, I cannot shake the feeling that God is pulling a Genesis 11:7 on me. Why do I feel as though God is frustrating my thoughts and keeping me immobile? I can't shake the feeling - its a scary one! Many people read the story of Babel and say..."whoa! the people were so together, nothing would have been impossible for them." I read the story and say..."whoa! God is big and the best of men are but ants. Look how the Great Jehovah frustrates their thoughts and brings their works to nothing!" That's some scary stuff!

So yeah...that's pretty much all I have to say on the matter. I had more, but "somehow" I forgot what I wanted to say. Hmm? Thanks, God?

Seek Truth (You Can Know It)

2009-08-30T04:20:00.003-04:00

"There are three sides to every story; person A, person B, and the truth in the middle."

I'm Like a Bird/Turn off the Lights - Nelly Furtado

2009-08-29T22:12:00.002-04:00

J.Johnson - Ovacomaz

2009-08-26T15:47:00.000-04:00

I'm really diggin' this beat and song! Way to go J. Johnson!!

Time Magazine's Fascination with God's Death

2009-08-26T15:36:00.003-04:00

Time Magazine Cover 1960: "God is Dead" Time Magazine Cover 1970: "Marx is Dead" Time Magazine Cover 1980: "God and Marx are Dead and I'm not feeling too well myself."

Usain Bolt Celebrates Early ... Very Early

2009-08-21T13:50:00.000-04:00

Too Funny!

Does God Create Evil?

2009-08-20T20:56:00.013-04:00

One of the most common reasons why skeptics reject the reality of God, is due to the problem of evil in the world. The question that is often posed by the philosophers and atheists alike is, "how can an omnibenevolent and omnipotent God allow evil?" If he is infinitely perfect and infinitely strong, they reason, he cannot allow evil. You see, in the mind of one who would ask the aforementioned question, God's omnipotence cannot be reconciled with his omnibenevolence, as they are mutually exclusive. If he is truly good, he cannot allow evil to exist. And, since evil does exist, and if God is truly good, he cannot then be infinitely strong (since he being good, would stop sufferings). Such seemingly paradoxical statements award sufficing reason to altogether disregard a deity - especially the Christian representation of God. And yet, this is to be expected from the unbeliever. Scripturally speaking, all unbelievers are "defiled in their mind and consciences" (Titus 1:15), insomuch that "they are unable to believe spiritual truth because it is foolishness to them" (1 Cor 2:14). Therefore, for the rest of this post, I will seek to speak specifically to believers. The aim in this blog isn't to present a case for God to the unbeliever, but instead to give believers an explanation to the question, "does God create evil?"

"I form the light, and create darkness: I make peace, and create evil: I the LORD do all these things" (Isa 45:7)

Before I can go on to give an explaination to this scripture, it will do well to lay some foundation. It must be seen at the outset, that the Bible is not a book written in 21th century American English, but rather two dead languages primarily; namely Hebrew and Greek. Therefore, my first point would be simply to point to exegesis. In this case, "what does evil mean in this particular scripture?" The word translated evil here, is the Hebrew word "ra raah." Its meanings are as followed: evil, distress, calamity, misery, grief. Note, therefore, that the word evil could rightly be translated as any one of the other meanings and keep its integrity and accuracy. In fact, the English Standard Version, for example, translates the word evil with "calamity," as do many other accepted translations. That being said, however, simple exegesis alone will not suffice in answering the question. If indeed God does make evil, as some might believe, there must be a central interpretative motif or theme that proves it in the scriptures.

While the scriptures clearly teach that God "creates evil" (Isa 45:7), "brings about calamity...and disaster" (Lam 3:37-38, Amos 3:6), and gives "bad times, as well as the good" (Ecc 7:13), should we then see God as an omnipotent megalomaniac? If we do, we are certain to run into some clear contradictions. Consider for example, three scriptures (there are many more, but for brevity's sake, I will refrain):

"The Rock, his work is perfect, for all his ways are justice. A God of faithfulness and without iniquity, just and upright is he" (Deu 32:4).

"This is the message we have heard from him and proclaim to you, that God is light, and in him is no darkness at all" (1 John 1:5).

"For you are not a God who delights in wickedness; evil may not dwell with you" (Psa 5:4).

Let's analyze some important facts:

1. God's work is perfect and altogether just (Deu 32:4)
2. God does not delight in wickedness (Psa 5:4)
3. God is light (perfect light/love/goodness), and there is NO darkness (evil) in him (1 Jn 1:5)

If you are a believer, you know that there are no contradictions in scripture, and therefore I will not spend time on that issue. Still, however, if you believe that God does create evil, you have come into a problem of contradictions. Does God create evil in the sense you assume, or is his ways altogether perfect and without evil? You cannot have it both ways, as indeed the two opinions are at odds and against a fundamental law of logic; namely the law of non contradiction. Now that we are presented with these contradictions, and as a result forced to remove ourselves from the presuppositions that keep us myopic, we will better deal with what scripture teaches (as apposed to having our opinions dictate what scripture actually say). What then does the bible mean when it says that "God 'creates' evil?" First, let it be said that evil is not a "created" thing. What I simply mean, is that you can't see, touch, feel, smell or hear evil. It is not one of the fundamental forces of physics, nor does it consist of matter, energy, or the spatial dimensions of the universe. Therefore, for my 1st argument against God creating evil, I would simply pose the "Absence Theodicy Argument."

In the same way "cold" is the absence of "heat," and "darkness" is the absence of "light,"I submit that evil is the absence of God. But how do we know that cold is the absence of heat, and darkness is the absence of light? First, concerning cold, we know that according to the laws of Physics, cold is in fact the absence of heat. Anything is able to be studied as long as it transmit energy (heat). Absolute Zero is the total absence of heat, but cold does not exist. What we have done is create a term to describe how we feel if we don't have body heat, or if we are not hot. And, as far as darkness is concerned, we know that light can be studied and darkness cannot. Darkness cannot be broken down. A simply ray of light, for example, tears the darkness and illuminates the surface where the light beam finishes. Dark is simply a term we use to describe what happens when there is a lack of light. Again - as its been said before - just as cold is the absence of heat and darkness is the absence of light, evil is the absence of good; albeit the greatness good, namely God himself.

Finally, I want to switch from a philosophical argument, to more of a theological one. The problem with God creating evil, as some believe, is a moral issue dealing with God's character, and therefore we must seek the scriptures to see what it says. Does Isaiah 45:7 teach that God creates evil in the same sense men might? First of all, the verse can have no reference to moral evil (wickedness) for such is opposed to the infinitely holy nature of God (Isaiah 6:3). Jehovah is a “God of faithfulness and without iniquity”(Deuteronomy 32:4). He is “not a God that hath pleasure in wickedness” (Psalm 5:4). Nor can it be supposed that this verse has to do with Jehovah’s original creation, for at the termination of the creation week, the Lord saw “everything that he had made, and, behold, it was very good” (Genesis 1:31). Then how might we understand the verse? The verse may well be understood in fact that:

1. whatever God does - whether we perceive it to be a calamity or altogether evil - is right and therefore good, since all the Lord does is good (Deu 32:4, Job 34:10).
2. God often uses the evil acts of free moral agents to bring about punishment or judgment, while yet remaining the one who is not the author of evil. Note for example, the case of Joseph's brothers who sold him into slavery, and years later where Joseph testifies..."it is not you who sent me here, but God."

How A Wondrous Love Was Afforded

2009-08-18T13:30:00.016-04:00

"I just plead with you; when you're reading the bible, and you read water toy-text like, 'he loved you and gave himself for you,' you wouldn't go too fast over it. Linger! Linger! Linger! And plead with him that your eyes would be opened." - John Piper

I once read that, "God is admirable because of his many diverse excellencies." I believe that. I mean, who would have ever thought that I'd find God's holiness an admirable thing? Or even better, who would have ever conceived that I'd praise him for his wrath? Even his mercy seemed a small thing before my encounter with Christ. Prior to Christ, I remember singing the song "Amazing Grace." In retrospect, the words, though obviously strong and passion-filled, meant little to me. After my conversion however - and after studying grace via reformed theology - I cried. God's grace is no small thing. And it is this, the topic of grace, that this blog entry will seek to discuss. Before we continue however, a question must be asked. The question will seek to bring clarity to the many caricatures people have about God, and their own presumptions as to why God is obligated to be merciful. Here is the question: How could a sin-hating and holy God, be anything but wrathful to the people deserving of his wrath? Let me pause here and explain the reasoning behind the question. The question has in mind a few things:

1. God is too holy to look upon sin (Hab 1:13)
2. Sin is exceedingly sinful and beyond measure. (Rom 7:13)
3. God hates those who do sin (Psa 5:5)
4. It is an abomination for God to justify the wicked (Pro 17:15)
5. Apart from faith in Christ, all are evil (John 3:18-19)

If indeed the Bible does teach that God is exceedingly and holistically pure, and that sin is of the most contemptible and most heinous acts done in the universe, and that it is right for all those who commit such abominations to suffer wrath - the questioned is again asked, how could God be merciful to such a people? Now that an explanation for the reasoning has been given, let us now seek to answer the question at hand. Consider with me Revelation 13:8.

"And all that dwell upon the earth shall worship him, whose names are not written in the book of life of the Lamb slain from the foundation of the world."

In answering the question at hand - namely, how it is possible for God to be anything but wrathful to such a sinful people, we come to see an amazing truth found in Revelation 13 and verse 8. There, we read that Jesus is the "lamb slain before the foundation of the world." But what does that mean; especially considering that Christ went to the Calvary's cross "in God's appointed time (Gal 4:4)," which came about 2000 years ago? Simply put, it means that in the eternal mind of God, he foreknew his plan to remain just while justify the ungodly. Therefore, we read:

"Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who hath blessed us with all spiritual blessings in heavenly places in Christ: According as he hath chosen us in him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and without blame before him in love: Having predestinated us unto the adoption of children by Jesus Christ to himself, according to the good pleasure of his will, To the praise of the glory of his grace, wherein he hath made us accepted in the beloved"(Ephesians 1:3-6).

Notice that God's love act in electing certain individuals to salvation is not without God's justice being appeased. Christians are "blessed with all spiritual blessings 'in Christ.'" They are "chosen 'in Christ.'" And again, they are "made excepted in 'the beloved,' or Christ." It is because God "foreknew Christ before the foundations of the world"(1 Peter 1:20), and foreknew that he was going to be reconciling men to himself via Christ' atonement, that God is able to give the least of his common graces. Grace, the unmerited and undeserved favor of God - even the smallest of it - is only given because of Jesus' death. So in closing, the next time you enjoy a day at the beach, or when you smile and experience a caring hug from a loved one, stand in awe of the cost that made such seemingly small glories available for you. The Son of God was crushed in order to award grace on behalf on sinners. Therefore readers, be wise; be warned. Serve the LORD with fear, and rejoice with trembling. Kiss the Son, lest he be angry, and you perish in the way, for his wrath is quickly kindled. Blessed are all who take refuge in him (Psalms 2:10-12).

Da' Truth - My President is Black (Remix)

2009-08-11T21:18:00.001-04:00

Some of my Favorite Theme Songs

2009-08-08T23:41:00.003-04:00

The Last of the Mohicans

Braveheart

Gladiator

Dragon: The Bruce Lee Story

Serious Ramifications of Economic Recession

2009-08-07T01:40:00.004-04:00

..."Even crime doesn't pay!"

Building up the Church - Steve Hartland

2009-08-06T15:13:00.006-04:00

From the Sermon Building up the Church

"...[concerning speaking in tongues] People say 'the spirit's got me...the spirit's got me.' Its interesting how no one ever says 'we have the gift of giving. I can't control it...I can't control it. I just keep writing checks and writing checks - the spirit's got me!' Let all things be done for the building up of the church and in order." - Pastor Steve Hartland

Adventures in Evangelism

2009-08-04T12:06:00.012-04:00

My day started unlike I planed. I had been excited about going out to share the gospel all week, but now that Saturday was here, I was tired and no longer felt like going. I woke up around 9 AM to my non-alarming cell phone alarm. The battery had died due to me leaving the the music player on. Assuming that I had missed Ron's call, and that he left without me, I took solace in the fact that I could go back to sleep. Even now as I write this, I am not sure why I called Ron. After calling Ron and realizing that he too had been running late, the realization that I had to get out of my cozy bed became more evident. Finally presumption became fact when Ron - in typical side bar fashion - said..."I will be there in a few minutes." Now I was sure that my peace would be disrupted, and I would have to get out of bed. I prayed after getting out of bed. Two things I know to be true: 1. you can't go out witnessing without God, as the Lord himself said..."without me you can do nothing." 2. you can't go out witnessing if your heart isn't in it. I prayed before meeting up with Ron, and the Lord graciously dealt with my heart. Besides being motivated to tell of the worth and fame of Christ (and instinctively knowing that I primarily did this to an audience of one - namely God himself), I will not tell more of my talk with God. Ron and I arrived at Pennsylvania Avenue around 10 AM.

Pennsylvania Avenue is considered one of the worst places in Baltimore city, and if I knew we were going there - and going with only one other person - I might have opted to stay home. Nevertheless I was now there with Ron. I asked if we could pray in the car, but Ron wanted to pray outside. "Actually" he said, "do you mind if we pray outside?" My initial hope was to pray in private, but something about standing for Christ in the mist of people made me excited, and I looked forward to praying outside. Ron and I prayed, and the Lord took pity and blessed our prayer. There was a market close to where we parked. Outside was hot and humid, and there were people everywhere. I've always liked being in the mist of people, and this time was no different. For a short while, I was reminded of New York City. Manhattan, actually. Inside the market was a lot smaller than what the outside view of the building suggested. There were a lot of different stores in the market; some selling clothes, some food, some appliances, etc. As we walked around the market, and as we exited on the opposite side from which we entered, we met a man named Kevin. Kevin was a short and sickly looking black man. He had most of his upper teeth missing, and the ones at the bottom were noticeably brown. As Kevin stumbled into the door we exited, Ron and I decided to follow him back in. Talking to Kevin was interesting. My heart quickly began to break for him as I listened to his story. He was only 34 years old, but looked to be in his mid to late 40's.

Though I couldn't help feel sorry for Kevin, and though I wanted very much for God to work in him in that instant (kind of like what God did through Paul for Lydia), I was continually humbled and somewhat convicted by my reoccurring hope that he wouldn't spit on me, or even touch me. Not long after having that hopeful though, Kevin would put his hand on my shoulder and then shake my hand. In and instant I felt dirty on my whole right side, but for the sake of the gospel I resolved not to be reclusive. As I spoke to Kevin, another man would come into the door to which we moments ago entered. Interrupting my talk he asked..."Do men go to hell if they do wrong?" Ron answered saying yes. He asked another question pertaining to the gospel, and Ron asked me to explain the answer to him. As I began to talk, the tall and scrappy-looking black man pulled out a small knife, and began to sharpen what seemed to be an already sharp and pointed piece of wood. With his eyes squarely fixed on me, I begun to feel nervous. This man seem to not even blink as I spoke. Many thoughts raced through my head as I spoke. "God is sovereign, Terrence. He who said to the waters, 'you may come here and no further,' holds your life. I am invincible unless God permits this man to do me harm." Those were my Christian thoughts. I also had some natural ones: "If he lunges at me, maybe I can block him if I do this," and "maybe I can push Ron in front of me since Ron is way bigger than I am." I had an outer body experience talking to that man. I saw and heard myself talking, but I am not certain of what I was saying. As he spoke, still with knife in hand, I kept moving to the left of Ron (slowly as to not excite him), hoping and praying that he would not try anything. Even now, I am not even sure whether he was trying to intimidate me, or if he was really going to physically harm me.

Ron took over the conversation - and I am sure he did this because I was no longer speaking sensibly, I was so afraid - and I would once again turn my attention back to Kevin; though now my back would be against the wall. For the rest of the day my back would face a wall, and I would make sure that no one was behind me. Kevin interrupted my talk to ask for some money. But rather than giving him money, I would later buy him something to eat. Ron's conversation was interrupted by the man who would say, "I am a Muslim, and I don't agree with you. I have to go!" Prior to saying that, and before speaking to me, he mentioned that he was a Christian minister. Ron, Kevin, and I, left the back of the market and walked to the front where there was a fast food store. We bought Kevin some food and proceeded to look for more people to talk with. As we walked away from Kevin, he would hop after us in a kid-like fashion, and thank us for the food. Unexpectedly, he once again shook my hand, and the familiar feeling of being covered in germs would plague my mind. At that point I resolved to keep my left hand in my pocket. That would be the hand I used to scratch my throbbing and itchy right hand and face.

To be Continued...

Can a Christian commit suicide? - Tim Conway

2009-07-30T15:30:00.000-04:00

What about Muslims, Hindus, Buddhist, and Jewish people?

2009-07-29T23:58:00.000-04:00

Short John Piper Video

Paul Washer Interview

2009-07-29T22:59:00.002-04:00

Please stop and watch brother Paul's interview, as he speaks on the importance of doctrine and theology.

Do You Desire God? - Paul Washer

2009-07-29T22:50:00.002-04:00

Let Me Yet Tell you of a More Excellent Way: Jesus

2009-07-29T12:11:00.007-04:00

"Restore to me the joy of your salvation, and uphold me with a willing spirit. Then I will teach transgressors your ways, and sinners will return to you." - Psalm 51:12-13

I have tired and tasted many things that were so good, that I just couldn't help share. As a child, candy and video games brought me so much fun that I wanted to share it with my friends. As a teen, facts of Michael Jordan and Bruce Lee enthralled me, and I couldn't help share with friends what I benefited from considering these men. As a Christian, I have tasted and come to know the goodness of the Lord Jesus. I cannot help tell sinners of his goodness. They too must see and repent. They too must know the unsurpassed glory of the Lord. They too must see the "this-is-too-good-to-be-trueness" of the realities of Christ.

Come sinner, let me tell you of Jesus!

Can I Lose My Salvation? - Doug Eaton

2009-07-29T05:19:00.002-04:00

"For I have come down from heaven, not to do my own will but the will of him who sent me. And this is the will of him who sent me, that I should lose nothing of all that he has given me, but raise it up on the last day" (John 6:38-39).

The Wonder of it All - Jeff Noblit

2009-07-29T04:58:00.000-04:00

Theology Hinges on Sovereignty Of God

2009-07-29T04:19:00.006-04:00

Theology Hinges on Sovereignty Of God

Covers wide range of beliefs; critics say it minimizes role of free will.

By Cary McMullen
THE LEDGER

Published: Thursday, July 23, 2009 at 11:25 p.m.
Last Modified: Thursday, July 23, 2009 at 11:24 p.m.

John Calvin's theology is dominated by the doctrine that God is "sovereign," or rules over everything in creation, down to the most minute detail.

It can be found in varying degrees today in Presbyterian and Baptist churches, in the Reformed Church in America and Christian Reformed Church that have roots in the Netherlands and in the United Church of Christ, which absorbed the Congregationalist churches founded by the Puritans.

Calvinism covers a wide range of beliefs, but the version best known in the Netherlands, Scotland and America is summarized by five principles, known by the acronym TULIP, that address the question of salvation. Critics of five-point Calvinism complain that it removes or diminishes the role of human free will.

Total depravity: Not a belief that persons are completely corrupt but rather that all parts of a person - reason, emotions and beliefs - are affected by sin. People are therefore incapable of belief in God without God's help.

Unconditional election: Sometimes known as predestination, it is the belief that God has chosen those who will be saved. It is a claim that humans cannot earn or accomplish their own salvation.

Limited atonement: The belief that Christ did not die for all humanity, only for those who are "elect," or chosen to be saved.

Irresistible grace: This holds that those chosen by God will inevitably come to believe in him.

Perseverance of the Saints: Calvinism teaches that those who have been saved by God cannot lose their salvation but will persevere until the final judgment.

Today's Gift from Master Oogway

2009-07-29T03:46:00.005-04:00

"Yesterday is history, tomorrow is a mystery, but today is a gift. That is why it is called 'present'."- Master Oogway from the Kung Fu Panda movie

How I Choose To Deal With My Depression

2009-07-28T21:15:00.003-04:00

"The LORD is good to those who wait for him, to the soul who seeks him. It is good that one should wait quietly for the salvation of the LORD. It is good for a man that he bear the yoke in his youth. Let him sit alone in silence when it is laid on him; let him put his mouth in the dust-- there may yet be hope; let him give his cheek to the one who strikes, and let him be filled with insults. For the Lord will not cast off forever, but, though he cause grief, he will have compassion according to the abundance of his steadfast love; for he does not willingly afflict or grieve the children of men" (Lamentations 3:25-33).

Some of my Random Thoughts

2009-07-27T12:18:00.002-04:00

Today is so cold! Just yesterday i thought to myself..."self, it is such a nice day. Summer must be coming around early." That was then, however. Today my teeth hurt. Oddly enough, they were fine when i called my dentist to reschedule my appointment. Yet now - and this is after i called and after eating some beef - my back teeth are hurting. Only on the right side though. Yeah, the right side is the the right side to be on. That's actually where Jesus sits; on the right side of the Father in Heaven. But i'm not sure i understand that. God is like everywhere - you know, omnipresent. How is it right to say that he sits now at the right side? I dunno...it must be anthropomorphism? i should ask someone smarter than i. That shouldn't be hard, since my eye hurts. The right one. People keep telling me, "Terrence, you should wear your glasses," that's why i bought some Ed Hardy shades. Now everything is not only hazy, but darker. But i understand it quite well. As it is written..."we see through a darkened glass," and again..."turn the lights off, its too bright in here." Now they tell me that i'm too flashy. Who's right? Yet everyone is right in their on eyes, that's why "i" never capitalize any thing "i" say. Read the sentence again if you don't believe me. As the hand is quicker than the eye, so is it right to note that there is no "i" in the word "team." There is however, an "m" and "e." I like basketball and look forward to playing some pickup games in the summer, but I'm not sure if it will ever come since today is so cold!

From Steve Hartland's Blog

2009-07-25T23:57:00.007-04:00

Four Ways to Deal with a Critic

Perry Noble writes (and no, that’s not him pictured on the left!):

“Before I share the four ways let me be VERY clear on who a critic is…

A critic is NOT someone who approaches you and has a sincere love for you and a genuine concern for the ministry. These people should always be listened to and appreciated.
A critic is NOT someone who has a question about something and is merely seeking information and/or clarification for the purpose of fully understanding and embracing the vision of the ministry.
A critic is NOT someone who comes to you one on one with a spirit of humility and grace.

A critic is…

Someone who does not know you but feels the need to judge everything you say and do…they will criticize where you eat, the clothes you wear, the number of times you fart and anything else they can think of.
Someone who asks questions…but doesn’t actually want to know the answer…but rather are merely seeking information for the purpose of division.
Someone who is always pointing out what others are doing wrong…but never acknowledges their own shortcomings. (Jesus said it will not go well for these people…Matthew 7:1-2)

Remember…insanity is actually thinking you can explain yourself to those who don’t know you and don’t like you! So…saying that, here are four ways you can deal with a critic…

#1 – Ignore Them

#2 – Ignore Them

#3 – Ignore Them

#4 – Ignore Them

I once heard a pastor say, “We spend way too much time wrestling with church people and not with God!”

There are some battles that you are NEVER going to win…and to fight with a person who wants to do nothing but accuse you is fruitless! (Just a thought here – the name “satan” means accuser. Now…if someone is obsessed with the “wrongs” that you are doing and always feel the need to throw those wrongs in your face…would that make them more like Jesus or more like satan? Hmmmm)

I learned this lesson a long time ago…I don’t visit their websites (very few people actually do), I don’t respond to them on twitter and I don’t read their anonymous letters…Craig Groeschel once said that the quickest way to forget what God thinks about me is to obsess with what others think about me.

NOW…there are instances where Jesus dealt with these people…but it was never an explanation but rather a barrage of questions and/or a VERY sharp rebuke (Matthew 23) This type of response should always be prayed through and thought out! There will be times that these steps need to be considered, discussed and acted upon…

BUT…99% of the time…just repeat steps 1-4! ”

Visit Steve Hartland's blog site here

Da Truth: New Album

2009-07-22T17:56:00.004-04:00

The New album called "the big picture" is here. Check out two songs free here.

Audio Adrenaline - Good Life

2009-07-19T01:38:00.001-04:00

"What good would it be, if you had everything, but you wouldn't have the only thing you need."

Ray Comfort on Michael Jackson's Death

2009-07-19T00:49:00.001-04:00

Lauren "L - Boggie" Hill

2009-07-19T00:23:00.003-04:00

An amazing talent!

Books I'm Reading

2009-07-15T09:45:00.006-04:00

I look forward to finishing this book and learning more about this cool guy!
One chapter in this book and I'm blown away. The thought about being intentional about spiritual growth should be an obvious one, yet as the saying goes..."common sense isn't so 'common' anymore."

Bible Study pt 14

2009-07-15T08:58:00.005-04:00

"I choose Christ' will over my own because I study finance. I have considered all that I may get in this life via my intellect, ability, and wit, versus the eternal glory that comes with giving myself to the work and will of my God. I chose God's will, since he promised that if I store up treasures in Heaven, it will be unlike the treasures of the earth - it will be eternal!"

I have been rocked by Monday night's bible study. Josh spoke on the topic of stewardship; specifically speaking about the preciousness of time, and the importance of handling money with maturity. Expounding on the fact that all things - even our time and money, are given by God, Josh asked some questions that I believe has revolutionized my thinking. The first question is..."how much of God's time will I use for myself?" and the next..."how much of God's money will I keep for myself?" I love the way these questions were asked, as they carry clear connotations and serious reminders of God being the giver of things I have. I look forward to putting these things into practice, and redeeming the time. I have nothing else to add but this pray: "Lord, teach us to number our days that we may gain a heart of wisdom"(Psa 90:12).

Sh Boom - Rama Lama Ding Dong - In the Still of the Night

2009-07-12T23:56:00.004-04:00

According to Acts 17, it isn't by chance, but by God's will that I'm born in the time that I'm born. Nevertheless, because of my great love for Doo-Wop Music, I often wonder if I was supposed to be born in the '50's. But then again, I wouldn't have done so well as an often proud black person coming up in a racist America. In any case, enjoy a great song. Leave comments!!

Terrence and Tynia Talk about Calvinism pt 1

2009-07-11T16:47:00.000-04:00

Hillsong United - From The Inside Out

2009-07-09T10:23:00.001-04:00

A Look At God's Gay Children

2009-07-08T17:21:00.008-04:00

In a recent Examiner article entitled "Christianity and God's Gay Children," author Angela Boatright-Spencer, an Episcopal Priest, writes that "since the time of both Leviticus and Paul, we have learned a great deal about sexual orientation, chiefly that it is primarily not a choice -- it is one's nature."Read article here: Christianity and God's gay Children. I have to say that Mrs. Spencer does a great deal of assuming, rather than acknowledging what is to be clearly taught in scripture. Before I continue with my thoughts, I want to preface by saying the following: this blog is in no way written to bash homosexuals, nor is it necessarily written as a rebuttal or critique to Mrs. Spencer's article. My aim in this blog is simply to assert what the scriptures teach, and to speak truth in place of what may be well-intended assumptions. Again, the goal is not to have any sort of altercations with the gay community, but only to present truth in the hopes that those who are gay by nature - and this is Mrs. Spencer's own words - may see their need for a new nature, and thereby trust in Jesus as the means to that end. All sinners, whether gay or straight, are in need of Jesus. This article seeks to reiterate why that is so.

Consider again the author's words..."we have learned a great deal about sexual orientation, chiefly that it is primarily not of choice, but of one's nature." A great truth needs to be seen and understood here. However, before we see this truth, we must deal with false assumptions that lead to wrong conclusions. The writer assumes that since one is gay primarily by nature and not of choice, they are fine as they are, so long as they live a moral Christian life viz-a-viz the "love law;" love God, love people, do on to others as you'd have others do on to you, and so on. Who in their right mind would assume that since one is born predisposed to anger, he or she ought to have "the right" to murder? No one in their right mind will draw that conclusion from such an assumption, whether the assumption is right or not. If then it is wrong to murder despite one's predisposition to it, why assume another sin - albeit homosexuality, is right to practice if one is born gay? To assume one sin over the other shows a partiality and a preference for particular offenses. To use the words of Romans 1 and verse 18, it shows that..."men by their unrighteousness suppress the truth."

Earlier I mentioned that we need to acknowledge a great truth. What is this great truth? The great and important truth is seen in Jesus' own words..."unless one is born again he cannot see the kingdom of God" (John 3:3). We must not assume that since God is our Creator, we are his children, and are therefore in a love relationship with him. It is written..."to all who did receive him, who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God" (John 1:12). In all honestly, one is not a child of God by mere fact of being his creation, but by divine right or appointment. God grants the right of being called his children to those who receive Jesus and believe in him. Now that being said, what does it mean to receive and believe in Jesus? Simply put, receiving and believing in Jesus entails much more than mere acknowledgment of certain facts. Believing in Jesus involves trusting in his worth alone for your justification of sins. When a person understands their utter worthlessness before God, and see themselves as an offender and opposer of God in the way they break his laws and fail to rightly love him, they cling solely to Jesus alone. No man but he has lived a life of complete righteousness.

He alone has never sinned - not even in thought or deed. And more than living a sinless life, he was offered as an atoning sacrifice for sin, in order to appease God's holy wrath. Still yet, he was resurrected on the 3rd day to fulfill scripture, validate his claims as God, and to offer justification to all those who trust in him. His perfect life was given on behalf sinners in order that those who trust in him might become the righteousness of God. In other words, those who trust in Him could have his perfect life credited to their account, while their sins be imputed in his body whereby it is punished for God's justice sake. This, incidentally, is why all sinners - whether straight or gay, need to be "born again." Homosexuality, like all sin, occurs as a result of our nature. It is given via our first birth, hence the need for being "born again." As mentioned before, being born a certain way by nature does not give us the right to break our Creator's laws. Therefore God says in his mercy to all who would believe, "repent and believe the gospel that your sins may be forgiven."

Could I - I mean "me" - Actually Make Jesus Happy?

2009-07-08T04:12:00.008-04:00

"...all things were created through him and for him" (Colossians 1:16).

I want to try something new; something perhaps a bit radical in the idea that it may not be the usual way in which I've learned to mortify sin in my life. What am I speaking about? I am speaking about a thought that has just passed through my mind. I do not remember who said the following words - I think it may have been Matthew Henry - but in keeping with the quote above, he said that..."we are made for his pleasure and praise." Now here are my thoughts. Could it be that when we are fighting sin, we should think about the fact that it pleases the Lord when we do what he wills, rather than just doing his will out of an obligation or a fear of punishment? I am sure that each motivation may work and therefore have its place, nevertheless the idea of pleasing God inasmuch as to make the Eternally Glorious One happy with a finite and insignificant speck of dust, is very appealing to me. More than just appealing, it is both enticing and exciting. Again, the thought that I, being as small as I am in relation to life and everything else, could actually make King Jesus happy is stunning to me! I look forward to putting my thoughts into practice.

The Missionaries - (vintage Paul Washer footage)

2009-07-08T03:51:00.000-04:00

10 Reasons Why Michael Jackson's Life and Death Matters

2009-07-08T03:06:00.002-04:00

Perhaps I may not have been so assumptive as the speaker in this video, but I liked it nonetheless. I pray that the truth said in this video may lead to the salvation of many souls.

Independence Day

2009-07-04T13:32:00.005-04:00

"... having been set free from sin, have become slaves of righteousness." - Romans 6:18

Thank You Jessica!

2009-07-01T22:45:00.003-04:00

"A girl's heart should be so lost in God that a guy has to seek Him to find her." - Unknown

The king of Pop has Died

2009-06-25T18:55:00.003-04:00

“I was a veteran, before I was a teenager.” - Michael Jackson

There's so much to be said of Michael Jackson's death, and the implications for believers. For now, all I want to say by way of reminder is, make your life count, believer. Pray for Mike's family, and enjoy one of my favorite Michael Jackson here:

Human Nature

A Hot Prayer

2009-06-25T14:06:00.002-04:00

Two things I ask of you; deny them not to me before I die: Remove far from me falsehood and lying; give me neither poverty nor riches; feed me with the food that is needful for me, lest I be full and deny you and say, "Who is the LORD?" or lest I be poor and steal and profane the name of my God. (Proverbs 30:7-9)

Prayer of my Heart

2009-06-24T23:26:00.004-04:00

One thing I ask of the Lord, please don't withhold it from me! That I may look at the cross and lose my life for the sake and glory of the Lord Jesus, then I would be happy; then I would have not lived a wasted life!

Santo & Jhonny - Sleep Walk

2009-06-17T05:35:00.002-04:00

Ah! Man, this is good and lovely music!

Some Communicable Attributes of God via Exo 34:5-7

2009-06-15T11:53:00.006-04:00

"The LORD descended in the cloud and stood with him there, and proclaimed the name of the LORD. The LORD passed before him and proclaimed, 'The LORD, the LORD, a God merciful and gracious, slow to anger, and abounding in steadfast love and faithfulness, keeping steadfast love for thousands, forgiving iniquity and transgression and sin, but who will by no means clear the guilty, visiting the iniquity of the fathers on the children and the children's children, to the third and the fourth generation.'" (Exodus 34:5-7)

Our God is a consuming fire of holiness, and I love it! Consider his holiness. Try to grasp for a moment, the everlastingly and wholly Holy One of Israel being merciful and gracious and slow to anger, and having steadfast love and faithfulness insomuch as to forgive iniquity and sin. What!? That doesn't even make sense! It isn't even right for God to do that! Unless of course, a more precious sacrifice has been given to assuage the justice of God. Behold Jesus, the infinitely precious One! How could the death of one man adequately pay for the sins of all men? Picture it like this: Take all the men from all time since the beginning of time, and place them on one side of a scale. Place Jesus alone on the other scale. Jesus out weighs them all!

He is the INFINITELY PRECIOUS ONE! God is pleased to consider his death more than adequate for all who trust in him. "The Just for the unjust" died, and now "God can be just in justifying the ungodly." I love it!

Reflecting the Creativity of God

2009-06-10T22:34:00.005-04:00

American Indian

Australian Aboriginal

Chinese

African