During the mid-week Bible study at our church, Pastor John has been going through the book of Daniel. Growing up, the Bible stories of Daniel and his three friends were read to us. I can still see those pictures of him in the lion's den. I remember he was a man of prayer. But going through a book expositionally is much different than a picture Bible. I'm learning especially about prophecy. I'm ashamed to say that I don't know much about this topic, even though it takes up a large part of the Bible. I'm ashamed to say that I don't put much stock in this topic, even though it basically tells us what our future is. I feel a bit foolish, like Biff from Back to the Future, who doesn't initially realize the gold mine he's sitting on by knowing the future.
In choosing the set for this week, I wanted to look at a few things: Christ as the reigning King over all...the greatness of our God...our response to live for Him...and even a song that reminds us of our great High Priest who intercedes on our behalf. That last theme was particularly important to me because I know I fail to live out what 1 John 3:3 is talking about. I am not a perfect man. I struggle with sin. I am still a sinner. But "Before the Throne of God Above" is so powerful because of this reminder that Christ continues to intercede. Picture Satan as the prosecutor, pointing out my sins to God, telling God that because He is holy and just, He must punish me for my sinfulness. God agrees. But then Jesus, my defense attorney, steps in. He reminds the Judge (not that He has forgotten) that He paid it all. He bled and died to take away my sin. He is the propitiation of my sin.
How can we not respond in jubilant, thankful worship, living our lives for Him, even dying for Him?
1. King of Ages
2. O Great God
3. Before the Throne of God Above
4. One Pure and Holy Passion
Friday, September 28, 2012
Friday, September 14, 2012
Lecrae's Gravity
By now, most people know who Lecrae is (if you don't, just google his name). His latest album, Gravity, sold more than 70,000 copies in its first week alone. He skillfully combines solid lyrics with really good beats. Over the past several years, Christian hip hop has become more main-stream and biblical at the same time. Now, that's a little strange, isn't it? You would think the opposite would be true, but for some reason, God is using the likes of Lecrae, Trip Lee, Shai Linne and others to impact the world in a godly way. While the eternal fruits of these artists remains to be seen, what can't be denied is the positive effect they are having right now. Young people are starting to be more interested in the things of God. This is a good thing. The hip hop culture needs more artists like this to influence and be role models instead of Tupac and Biggie. Just look at what's going on in Chicago. A slew of senseless murders. A young aspiring hip hop artist murdered at the age of 18.
Praying that Lecrae's life/experience put into words will have the God-honoring effect that they were intended to have.
Praying that Lecrae's life/experience put into words will have the God-honoring effect that they were intended to have.
The Importance of Knowing What You Sing
Recently, a few brothers and I have been going through all of the songs we sing and giving each one a grade. This is by no means a perfect/absolute standard, but more of a tool to help guide us to pick songs that truly honor God. I won't go through all the details, but essentially, an "A" song is one that has theologically sound, God-exalting lyrics & good melody. A "C" song is one that is more of a response song. A "D" song is one that wouldn't fit for corporate worship (remember, worship is a proper response to who God is and all that He has done, and encapsulates our entire lives, not just singing songs...just want to clarify) because the lyrics are more situational and can't be sung by all Christians at all times. A "F" song is one that has heretical lyrics and should not be sung in a corporate or personal setting as praise to God.
The project has been fun, and very beneficial for me. As someone who picks 4-5 songs a week to sing on Sundays, I admit that there are times that I can just assume that a song has good lyrics because either I've sung that song before or it's a hymn, so it's gotta be good, right? But I have been challenged to really look at each word and make sure it is clear and correct.
We are called to worship God is spirit and in truth. We must have both.
The project has been fun, and very beneficial for me. As someone who picks 4-5 songs a week to sing on Sundays, I admit that there are times that I can just assume that a song has good lyrics because either I've sung that song before or it's a hymn, so it's gotta be good, right? But I have been challenged to really look at each word and make sure it is clear and correct.
We are called to worship God is spirit and in truth. We must have both.
Weekly Roundup
There are a plethora of good articles out there, which, as Monk would say, is a gift and a curse. A gift because we have access to all sorts of information. A curse because...we have access to all sorts of information. Well, in an attempt to be a discerning reader, here are some articles I found important to read.
The Steps of Biblical Sanctification - Got to keep watch over our spiritual pulses.
10 Ways Ecclesiology Encourages Me - That would be talking about the church
The Default Position of Abortion - May be helpful for those who are pro-choice, but not fully.
Politics - I don't typically follow politics. This was frustrating to read.
The Steps of Biblical Sanctification - Got to keep watch over our spiritual pulses.
10 Ways Ecclesiology Encourages Me - That would be talking about the church
The Default Position of Abortion - May be helpful for those who are pro-choice, but not fully.
Politics - I don't typically follow politics. This was frustrating to read.
Tuesday, June 19, 2012
My Favorite Bob Kauflin Articles
Motivating the Church to Worship God - This is a challenging article for me because I'm not really one to interject while leading praise, though I understand and appreciate the heart and purpose behind it. I do see the great benefit of doing so, but at the same time, I want to be cautious so as not to distract. Gotta find the balance.
Defining Worship - This is a four-parter, so be prepared to do some reading (actually, each part is not too long). I am truly grateful for Mr. Kauflin's ministry and how God has used him to ignite a passion within me to make sure I understand with my mind what it is that I do as a praise leader, and having the truth of God work in my heart to produce true emotion and true love for the One who first loved (and continues to love) me.
What Does a Worship Leader Do - Ok, be warned: this is a 17-parter! I would encourage anyone to read all 17, as they are very informative and instructive, and if you lead praise at your church, I would command you (if I had that sort of authority) to read and digest all 17 parts and really think about how to apply what you've read. I know I'll be going back to read these again.
Entering the "Draw Me Close" Conversation - This is a great example of finding the balance. I appreciate how he doesn't outright dismiss the song, pointing some of its good qualities, but he doesn't hold back from the potential dangers and ambiguities of the song either. It's also a good reminder that there isn't one song that perfectly embodies all of who God is and what He has done. So instead of trying to find that perfect song, we should work to build praise sets made up of songs that work together to encourage the genuine worship of God.
You can follow Bob Kauflin's blog at http://www.worshipmatters.com/. I've recommended it before, but I'll do it again:
Defining Worship - This is a four-parter, so be prepared to do some reading (actually, each part is not too long). I am truly grateful for Mr. Kauflin's ministry and how God has used him to ignite a passion within me to make sure I understand with my mind what it is that I do as a praise leader, and having the truth of God work in my heart to produce true emotion and true love for the One who first loved (and continues to love) me.
What Does a Worship Leader Do - Ok, be warned: this is a 17-parter! I would encourage anyone to read all 17, as they are very informative and instructive, and if you lead praise at your church, I would command you (if I had that sort of authority) to read and digest all 17 parts and really think about how to apply what you've read. I know I'll be going back to read these again.
Entering the "Draw Me Close" Conversation - This is a great example of finding the balance. I appreciate how he doesn't outright dismiss the song, pointing some of its good qualities, but he doesn't hold back from the potential dangers and ambiguities of the song either. It's also a good reminder that there isn't one song that perfectly embodies all of who God is and what He has done. So instead of trying to find that perfect song, we should work to build praise sets made up of songs that work together to encourage the genuine worship of God.
You can follow Bob Kauflin's blog at http://www.worshipmatters.com/. I've recommended it before, but I'll do it again:
Friday, June 8, 2012
What's Up With Contemporary Praise Songs?
A casual listen to contemporary praise songs can leave you thinking God is most interested in making you feel good, giving you a happy and fulfilling life, and commanding you to go and make a social change in this world. Don't get me wrong: I'm not against those things, but biblically speaking, that is not what God is most passionate about. You know what He is most passionate about? His glory. And that is sadly lacking in many, if not most, of the contemporary songs out there on the radio. To make matters worse, many of these "Christian" songs filled with "Christianese" have become the most popular ones out there (Note: I don't want to mention specific names because I don't think that's necessary. This post isn't to bash on anyone, but to lament the current state of affairs in Christian music). But the reality is, these songs have become so self-centered, that even the ones that actually mention Jesus and/or God typically do it in a way that serves the to highlight the self.
So what's going on here? Why aren't more people writing biblically-sound praise songs? Sure, there are some that are doing it, and doing it well (The Gettys, Sovereign Grace, Enfield), but I rarely hear them playing on the radio. Not that they are necessarily seeking that, but the more exposure their songs get, the more that the truth of the gospel is proclaimed. But, the radio is playing what they think/know the listeners want to hear, so really the problem is with us.
Well, what's wrong with this, you may ask. What's wrong? Everything. The focus has been flipped around. These songs are foundationally incorrect. You want to feel good? Well, if you're talking about having the joy that only the fruit of the Spirit can bring through knowing and growing in Christ, then I'm on board. You want your best life now? Guess what: that's a life of humility and self-sacrifice and daily taking up your cross, not a comfortable lifestyle and mansions and fine dining that some would have you believe. Sure, if you have those things that doesn't mean you're not a Christian. But if that's all you're seeking, then chances are you probably aren't. You want to make a social change in this world? Feed the hungry, serve the poor? That's great. But please be sure that you proclaim the only message that can save people in the eternal sense because this life is temporary, but eternity is, well, eternal.
So this is a call for genuine believers to want to hear music that truly honors God. Yes, we are free to enjoy all types of music (I love jazz and musicals and classic rock, for example), but when it comes to our praise songs, let's not settle for these watered-down, make-ME-feel-good music because you know what? Our God is worthy of being praised for who He is and what He has done. So let's call for more of Shai Linne, more Sovereign Grace, more Enfield, and whoever else out there who is putting out God-glorifying music. And let's pray for more to be raised up.*
*I'm sure there are more artists out there who fall in this category, so please, if you know of any, let me know. I would love to hear them.
Oh, and I should point out: this is easier said than done. Writing good melodies and lyrics is pretty difficult. But, this does not excuse the many that put out these shallow songs.
So what's going on here? Why aren't more people writing biblically-sound praise songs? Sure, there are some that are doing it, and doing it well (The Gettys, Sovereign Grace, Enfield), but I rarely hear them playing on the radio. Not that they are necessarily seeking that, but the more exposure their songs get, the more that the truth of the gospel is proclaimed. But, the radio is playing what they think/know the listeners want to hear, so really the problem is with us.
Well, what's wrong with this, you may ask. What's wrong? Everything. The focus has been flipped around. These songs are foundationally incorrect. You want to feel good? Well, if you're talking about having the joy that only the fruit of the Spirit can bring through knowing and growing in Christ, then I'm on board. You want your best life now? Guess what: that's a life of humility and self-sacrifice and daily taking up your cross, not a comfortable lifestyle and mansions and fine dining that some would have you believe. Sure, if you have those things that doesn't mean you're not a Christian. But if that's all you're seeking, then chances are you probably aren't. You want to make a social change in this world? Feed the hungry, serve the poor? That's great. But please be sure that you proclaim the only message that can save people in the eternal sense because this life is temporary, but eternity is, well, eternal.
So this is a call for genuine believers to want to hear music that truly honors God. Yes, we are free to enjoy all types of music (I love jazz and musicals and classic rock, for example), but when it comes to our praise songs, let's not settle for these watered-down, make-ME-feel-good music because you know what? Our God is worthy of being praised for who He is and what He has done. So let's call for more of Shai Linne, more Sovereign Grace, more Enfield, and whoever else out there who is putting out God-glorifying music. And let's pray for more to be raised up.*
*I'm sure there are more artists out there who fall in this category, so please, if you know of any, let me know. I would love to hear them.
Oh, and I should point out: this is easier said than done. Writing good melodies and lyrics is pretty difficult. But, this does not excuse the many that put out these shallow songs.
Wednesday, June 6, 2012
The Gathering by Sovereign Grace Music
At the Shepherds' Conference this year there was a table just for Sovereign Grace Music. I had most of the CDs there, so I was just looking to pick up some gifts for others, but the sister there pointed me to a couple of their newer CDs, including The Gathering, which is a live-recorded compilation of biblically-based songs that bring glory to our great God. While I enjoyed listening to the entire CD, a few songs truly stand out. Track 5, "Have Mercy On Me," is a sobering reminder of what I truly deserve as a sinner, and how wonderful this gift of salvation is. Track 14, "Lift High The Cross," is an evangelistic anthem to proclaim the gospel loud and proud. It made me think: if I have this precious gift, why do I keep it to myself? Lastly, probably my favorite one off this album, is #3, "Come Praise And Glorify." This is like "Come, Christians Join To Sing," but with more in-depth lyrics focused on Christ. I highly recommend the CD, but if you want to preview the songs, check out the videos below. If you have any recommendations for God-honoring, biblically-based praise music, please let me know. Always looking for the good stuff.
2. Greater Than We Can Imagine
3. Come Praise And Glorify
4. Shine Into Our Night
5. Have Mercy On Me
6. Now Why This Fear
7. Isaiah 53
8. Generous King
9. When You Move
10. Your Words of Life
11. Show us Christ
12. All I Have Is Christ
13. We Hunger And Thirst
14. Lift High The Cross
15. As You Go
1. There is One Reason
Wednesday, May 9, 2012
How Sweet and Aweful...
Newer song for me...old hymn. Off of this really good CD that I would recommend to anyone. Thanks to Kernan for pointing me to the CD, and thanks to Clavid for pointing out this song. Enjoy!
Before the Throne of God Above
One of my most-loved songs. What a wonderful reminder of our Savior who intercedes for us. Indeed, for believers, our names are written on His heart.
Songbook is....almost ready
For those that have been at Evangel for some time, you know that this songbook has been a long term project (emphasis on "long"). For various reasons (mostly due to my lack of getting it done) the project was never completed. Well, thanks to the hard work of many, especially Junny and Dan, the book is almost done. Essentially it's all done electronically, but Dan and I have been going through each song and literally playing them to make sure the chords are all in the right spots. I can't speak for Dan, but it's actually been a lot of fun. Throughout the process I've re-discovered a few songs that I really like, but haven't sung in a while.
As soon as the songbook is available, we will let EBCers know. Yes, this includes OC, SV, and T. It will most likely be offered for a suggested donation to cover production costs.
Again, much thanks to those who put in the labor. I only know of the two mentioned above, but if others helped behind the scenes, thank you so much. I hope and pray that the Lord will use the songbooks to bless the people of God. Super excited for it to be released.
As soon as the songbook is available, we will let EBCers know. Yes, this includes OC, SV, and T. It will most likely be offered for a suggested donation to cover production costs.
Again, much thanks to those who put in the labor. I only know of the two mentioned above, but if others helped behind the scenes, thank you so much. I hope and pray that the Lord will use the songbooks to bless the people of God. Super excited for it to be released.
Wednesday, March 21, 2012
Shai Linne: Attributes of God
After several weeks of debating, I gave in and purchased Shai's newest album, Attributes of God. I've had this album on repeat for the last two weeks and I'm ready to give a review of it.
As usual, the lyrics are what really drive Shai's music ministry. Shai takes on the many attributes of God, ranging from the obvious, like "loving" and "faithful", to some we might not think about too much, such as "jealous". Musically, in my opinion, this album is one of his best. In fact, it's probably my favorite album of his.
But getting back to the lyrics, what continues to amaze me about Shai is that he is able to pack so much solid theology into 5 minutes. Here is a breakdown of the album.
Track 1: The Perfection of Beauty
The first track starts off with a poetic monologue done by Shai's wife, Blair. It's a powerful indictment on how we've allowed sin and culture to skew our appreciation for the beauty of God's characteristics.
Track 2: The Glory of God (Not to us)
This song appropriately points away from us and to the greatness of God. Shai portrays God's glory from the Bible to creation. It's a great reminder that all the glory belongs to God.
Track 3: Taste and See
This is a proclamation of the goodness of God. Verse 2 has this great line:
Understand that God is good apart from anything He's done for me
Yet still His goodness has blessed me abundantly
I'll try to give a summary, beginning with His love for me
In sending Christ to die – yes – the blood of Jesus covers me
Track 4: Our God is in the Heavens
This song speaks of the sovereign power of God. "He does whatever He pleases" echoes throughout the chorus. Because He is perfect and good, everything He pleases to do is perfect and good, even if our puny minds can't comprehend it.
Track 5: The Holiness of God (reprise)
This is a snippet remix of a song Shai did before. It contains only several lyrics, but it is powerful stuff. The first couple minutes is purely instrumental.
Track 6: Mercy and Grace
This song is a wonderful reminder to not take mercy and grace for granted. Shai and Timothy Brindle go well together.
Track 7: Lord of Patience
This song reminds me of something Pastor John likes to point out: God patiently waited, over thousands of years of our ancestors, who mostly were idolators, patiently waited for us as we lived our lives in rebellion against God, and at the perfect time, He revealed His truth to us and rescued us. Mind-blowing.
Track 8: All-Consuming Fire
Shai starts the song off reminding us that God's wrath is a subject that is too often ignored.
Track 9: Perfect Love
The lyrics show the balance of God's perfect love, and yet hatred for sin. He asks the question that if God is loving how could there be eternal punishment. He answers it with the truth that God loves His glory. To add to that, He loves His glory, therefore He must remain true to His holy character and punish sin.
Track 10: Faithful God
Probably my favorite song on the album, and maybe of all of his songs. I could listen to this all day. My soul was especially moved as he talks about God's faithfulness despite our often unfaithfulness.
Track 11: Judge of All The Earth
Again, highlighting that our God will judge righteously.
Track 12: The Jealous One
My second favorite song. Shai paints a story of a man being cheated on by his wife. The imagery is so vivid, you can feel the hatred that man feels, and you get to the point where you start thinking to yourself, how can his wife be so unfaithful? And then Shai hits us with the second verse by telling it to us straight: we are all guilty of being adulterous idolators. Praise the Lord that in Christ there is no condemnation. Married people will appreciate this song especially.
Track 13: The Omnis
This song exalts the ALL-ness of God. That He is ALL-knowing, ALL-present, ALL-powerful. That's ALL.
Track 14: Self-Sufficiency
This one is by Timothy Brindle. What a humbling reminder that God is self-sufficient. He didn't need us. He didn't need to create us. This is all for His glory. I love this line about God creating the world from nothing:
That God made all things out of nothing!
Ex Nihilo!
How may tools did You use to create? Yup, it's zero bro!
Track 15: Triune Praise (remix)
This is a remix of his song off of the Atonement album, another great cd. This a much-needed song as we often forget to worship God the Spirit, even though He is fully God as well.
Conclusion
Overall, this is a great buy because the lyrics and music move the soul, inform the mind, and touch the heart with biblical truths that ought to grow your love for God, for who He is and all He does. If you're not a fan of hip hop, I'd say it's still worth to buy simply for the value of the lyrics.
As usual, the lyrics are what really drive Shai's music ministry. Shai takes on the many attributes of God, ranging from the obvious, like "loving" and "faithful", to some we might not think about too much, such as "jealous". Musically, in my opinion, this album is one of his best. In fact, it's probably my favorite album of his.
But getting back to the lyrics, what continues to amaze me about Shai is that he is able to pack so much solid theology into 5 minutes. Here is a breakdown of the album.
Track 1: The Perfection of Beauty
The first track starts off with a poetic monologue done by Shai's wife, Blair. It's a powerful indictment on how we've allowed sin and culture to skew our appreciation for the beauty of God's characteristics.
Track 2: The Glory of God (Not to us)
This song appropriately points away from us and to the greatness of God. Shai portrays God's glory from the Bible to creation. It's a great reminder that all the glory belongs to God.
Track 3: Taste and See
This is a proclamation of the goodness of God. Verse 2 has this great line:
Understand that God is good apart from anything He's done for me
Yet still His goodness has blessed me abundantly
I'll try to give a summary, beginning with His love for me
In sending Christ to die – yes – the blood of Jesus covers me
Track 4: Our God is in the Heavens
This song speaks of the sovereign power of God. "He does whatever He pleases" echoes throughout the chorus. Because He is perfect and good, everything He pleases to do is perfect and good, even if our puny minds can't comprehend it.
Track 5: The Holiness of God (reprise)
This is a snippet remix of a song Shai did before. It contains only several lyrics, but it is powerful stuff. The first couple minutes is purely instrumental.
Track 6: Mercy and Grace
This song is a wonderful reminder to not take mercy and grace for granted. Shai and Timothy Brindle go well together.
Track 7: Lord of Patience
This song reminds me of something Pastor John likes to point out: God patiently waited, over thousands of years of our ancestors, who mostly were idolators, patiently waited for us as we lived our lives in rebellion against God, and at the perfect time, He revealed His truth to us and rescued us. Mind-blowing.
Track 8: All-Consuming Fire
Shai starts the song off reminding us that God's wrath is a subject that is too often ignored.
Track 9: Perfect Love
The lyrics show the balance of God's perfect love, and yet hatred for sin. He asks the question that if God is loving how could there be eternal punishment. He answers it with the truth that God loves His glory. To add to that, He loves His glory, therefore He must remain true to His holy character and punish sin.
Track 10: Faithful God
Probably my favorite song on the album, and maybe of all of his songs. I could listen to this all day. My soul was especially moved as he talks about God's faithfulness despite our often unfaithfulness.
Track 11: Judge of All The Earth
Again, highlighting that our God will judge righteously.
Track 12: The Jealous One
My second favorite song. Shai paints a story of a man being cheated on by his wife. The imagery is so vivid, you can feel the hatred that man feels, and you get to the point where you start thinking to yourself, how can his wife be so unfaithful? And then Shai hits us with the second verse by telling it to us straight: we are all guilty of being adulterous idolators. Praise the Lord that in Christ there is no condemnation. Married people will appreciate this song especially.
Track 13: The Omnis
This song exalts the ALL-ness of God. That He is ALL-knowing, ALL-present, ALL-powerful. That's ALL.
Track 14: Self-Sufficiency
This one is by Timothy Brindle. What a humbling reminder that God is self-sufficient. He didn't need us. He didn't need to create us. This is all for His glory. I love this line about God creating the world from nothing:
That God made all things out of nothing!
Ex Nihilo!
How may tools did You use to create? Yup, it's zero bro!
Track 15: Triune Praise (remix)
This is a remix of his song off of the Atonement album, another great cd. This a much-needed song as we often forget to worship God the Spirit, even though He is fully God as well.
Conclusion
Overall, this is a great buy because the lyrics and music move the soul, inform the mind, and touch the heart with biblical truths that ought to grow your love for God, for who He is and all He does. If you're not a fan of hip hop, I'd say it's still worth to buy simply for the value of the lyrics.
Friday, December 30, 2011
If you don't like praise music, something's wrong with you
I'm not talking about the sappy, cheesy praise songs that you could replace "Jesus" with "romantic interest" and sing without missing a beat. I'm talking about those good ol' hymns and theologically-sound praise songs that have the power to move the soul. Now that's good music. Here's what Martin Luther had to say about people who don't like praise music (from Kenneth Osbeck's 101 Hymn Stoires, page 14,):
"If any man despises music, as all fanatics do, for him I have no liking (ouch, kind of harsh, don't you think? But Luther goes on to explain why he feels so strongly.) For music is a gift and grace of God, not an invention of men. Thus it drives out the devil and makes people cheerful. Then one forgets all wrath, impurity, and other devices."
If you're not convinced of Luther's love and commitment to praise music, here's one more quote from him from the same book, same page:
"I wish to compose sacred hymns so that the Word of God may dwell among the people also by means of song."
One can't help but admire such a lofty goal. Would this be the desire of every praise leader.
And since I've been pulling quotes from this book, it's only fair that I give some props to the author, Mr. Kenneth Osbeck. What a great little book to read. It combines my love for Christ, music, AND history into a wonderful book. Go check it out.
"If any man despises music, as all fanatics do, for him I have no liking (ouch, kind of harsh, don't you think? But Luther goes on to explain why he feels so strongly.) For music is a gift and grace of God, not an invention of men. Thus it drives out the devil and makes people cheerful. Then one forgets all wrath, impurity, and other devices."
If you're not convinced of Luther's love and commitment to praise music, here's one more quote from him from the same book, same page:
"I wish to compose sacred hymns so that the Word of God may dwell among the people also by means of song."
One can't help but admire such a lofty goal. Would this be the desire of every praise leader.
And since I've been pulling quotes from this book, it's only fair that I give some props to the author, Mr. Kenneth Osbeck. What a great little book to read. It combines my love for Christ, music, AND history into a wonderful book. Go check it out.
Friday, October 14, 2011
Favorite reads of the week
There's always so many articles to read, but here were a few that helped me in various ways:
Justin Taylor - Spectrums of Theological Truth and Error
Justin Taylor - Ray Comfort's 180 - watched it last week. Thought-provoking and challenging questions.
Tim Challies - Did I Marry the Wrong Person? - I know, I know. The title is scary. But I promise, it's not what you think. A very humbling and joyful reminder of the sanctification of marriage. So thankful for my dear wifey.
Thabiti - Moms - cute anectdote
Thabiti - Marriage - one of my favorite articles this year. Way to go, Thabs
Last, but not least, I love gadgets and I thought this one looked pretty cool, especially since I bike a lot. Would I actually get it? Not sure.
Justin Taylor - Spectrums of Theological Truth and Error
Justin Taylor - Ray Comfort's 180 - watched it last week. Thought-provoking and challenging questions.
Tim Challies - Did I Marry the Wrong Person? - I know, I know. The title is scary. But I promise, it's not what you think. A very humbling and joyful reminder of the sanctification of marriage. So thankful for my dear wifey.
Thabiti - Moms - cute anectdote
Thabiti - Marriage - one of my favorite articles this year. Way to go, Thabs
Last, but not least, I love gadgets and I thought this one looked pretty cool, especially since I bike a lot. Would I actually get it? Not sure.
Thursday, October 6, 2011
If It Wasn't For You by Jimmy Needham
My favorite part of the song:
"to run and work, the law commands
but gives me neither feet nor hands.
Better news the gospel brings:
Bids me fly and gives me wings!"
What a good reminder that under the law of works we will fail every time by our fallen nature. But under the law of Christ, we are set free to live for the Lord, knowing that we are right with God because of Christ.
"to run and work, the law commands
but gives me neither feet nor hands.
Better news the gospel brings:
Bids me fly and gives me wings!"
What a good reminder that under the law of works we will fail every time by our fallen nature. But under the law of Christ, we are set free to live for the Lord, knowing that we are right with God because of Christ.
Wednesday, October 5, 2011
The Father's Love
I read this article today and was put to shame for all the times I complain and am ungrateful in light of what God has done.
A good song to respond to God's amazing love? I'm glad you asked:
The Father's Love
On a side note, one of my favorite songs, Before the Throne, Shaneified (man, he hits some crazy high notes)
A good song to respond to God's amazing love? I'm glad you asked:
The Father's Love
On a side note, one of my favorite songs, Before the Throne, Shaneified (man, he hits some crazy high notes)
Thursday, September 29, 2011
Some new websites regarding praise...
Christ and music. What a great combination. Not that we need to add anything to Christ, but music (and good biblical lyrics put to that music) make for some sweet tunes. I'm always on the lookout for blogs, articles, tools, etc. anything that will equip, edify, challenge, help me in this area of the music ministry. And the Lord knows how much I need help. So I'm thankful when I come across new websites of men and women who love the Lord and have a gift/passion in music. A few new ones for me:
http://blog.pagecxvi.com/ - this site aims to make hymns more accessible
http://mysonginthenight.com/ - a bit more artsy, but strives to express worship thru art/song
http://www.lampmode.com/home/ - more hip-hop related, but solid in terms of theology and their love for the Lord
If you come across any new sites, please let me know!!
Wednesday, September 7, 2011
New Song This Sunday: You Have Been Raised
I'm excited to return to the blogging world and I'm even more excited about this song that we'll be singing on Sunday. It's off of Sovereign Grace's album, Risen, and it's one of my favorites. The song plays the role of a person asking questions about his own sinfulness, forgiveness, redemption. All lofty topics, indeed. The chorus answers powerfully "YOU HAVE BEEN RAISED". This is our anthem as Christians, is it not? In 1 Corinthians 15 Paul attests to the historicity of the resurrection. He then hinges all of Christianity upon this very truth in verse 19. Indeed, if Christ has not risen from the grave, we are still in our sins. Praise the Lord that He has risen.
Tuesday, April 12, 2011
Initial Review of Risen: So far, so good
As I mentioned before, Sovereign Grace just released a new album entitled Risen. As the title indicates, it is a CD proclaiming that Christ has conquered the grave, which is relevant ALWAYS, but especially with Easter coming up in a couple of weeks. You can check out the album here. And, it is still just $5 if you download a digital copy until April 15. Another cool bonus feature for you Iphone/Ipod users. It displays the lyrics to each song as it plays. So you can do a little karaoke, just not while you're driving.
My favorite song on the album music-wise is "You Have Been Raised" (track 3). This song asks the simple, yet all-important question: How can we know that we are saved? How do we know for sure that our sins are forgiven, that we are accepted by God? The chorus answers that in this way:
You have been raised, the tomb has been opened
Nothing can take away our hope in You
You have been raised.
You have been raised, the work is completed
Hell and its powers have been defeated
You have been raised.
The bridge adds:
The price You paid for us has fully been accepted
Because of Your shed blood we cannot be rejected
Beautiful stuff. Check out the album if you haven't yet. Each song is filled with lyrics that will encourage any believer with the freedom from sin, the newness of life in Christ, the victory we have in Christ, the hope of heaven, amongst other things. And if you're so inclined, get a copy.
My favorite song on the album music-wise is "You Have Been Raised" (track 3). This song asks the simple, yet all-important question: How can we know that we are saved? How do we know for sure that our sins are forgiven, that we are accepted by God? The chorus answers that in this way:
You have been raised, the tomb has been opened
Nothing can take away our hope in You
You have been raised.
You have been raised, the work is completed
Hell and its powers have been defeated
You have been raised.
The bridge adds:
The price You paid for us has fully been accepted
Because of Your shed blood we cannot be rejected
Beautiful stuff. Check out the album if you haven't yet. Each song is filled with lyrics that will encourage any believer with the freedom from sin, the newness of life in Christ, the victory we have in Christ, the hope of heaven, amongst other things. And if you're so inclined, get a copy.
Friday, April 8, 2011
Uh oh...the praise leader messed up...what should we do?
It happens. In fact, it happens more often than you think. I've had my fair share of mistakes. On my part, I want to be practicing and getting better to be as little of a distraction as possible, to get out of the way and point others to Christ. Worship should always be a response to the immensity of who God is, the mind-blowing truth that God's grace and mercy have covered all of our sins in Christ, and the beauty of our Lord and Savior. The gospel should propel us to worship. It should drive out any sense of pride and put us in our place. Worship should never be about men.
Too often, when we see/hear a mistake, we focus too much on that, whether it's a cracked voice, a missed note, a wrong key, a wrong word, a funky strum/beat...whatever it may be. I probably do this more than most, so this is really for me first. I want to encourage each of us with this reminder: when we gather corporately, we are here to worship God. We (most definitely including myself) ought to be so enthralled with who God is, so amazed that we know the perfectly holy God who created all that is in the universe, so in love with the one who first loved us and gave his only Son to die for our sins, so filled with gratitude that we just want to worship God with our lives because our lives doubly belong to him. Oh, and just as a reminder: worship is a life devoted to Christ, not just singing a song or coming to church on Sundays. To God be the glory!
Too often, when we see/hear a mistake, we focus too much on that, whether it's a cracked voice, a missed note, a wrong key, a wrong word, a funky strum/beat...whatever it may be. I probably do this more than most, so this is really for me first. I want to encourage each of us with this reminder: when we gather corporately, we are here to worship God. We (most definitely including myself) ought to be so enthralled with who God is, so amazed that we know the perfectly holy God who created all that is in the universe, so in love with the one who first loved us and gave his only Son to die for our sins, so filled with gratitude that we just want to worship God with our lives because our lives doubly belong to him. Oh, and just as a reminder: worship is a life devoted to Christ, not just singing a song or coming to church on Sundays. To God be the glory!
Thursday, March 31, 2011
The Three R's
Thank you to Bob Kauflin. Seriously. So grateful to the Lord for this man and his ministry. He has written a brief post on Desiring God called "The Three R's: Why Christians Sing." He explains these three R's so clearly and succinctly: Remember, Respond, and Reflect. It's a short but good read, so go check it out.
His post gets to the heart of why I'm writing on this blog. What a wonderful gift music and singing is, amen? Oh, and thanks for the link, Christine.
His post gets to the heart of why I'm writing on this blog. What a wonderful gift music and singing is, amen? Oh, and thanks for the link, Christine.
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