The Colosseum

Still Posting at The Male Domain

2009-01-13T12:29:00.002-06:00

See my recent posts at my Main Blog, The Male Domain, where I post as often as I'm able too!

Mark Wahlberg Talks to Animals...

2008-10-27T20:53:00.002-05:00

This is a very funny skit by SNL, especially if you're familiar with Mark Wahlberg, or Marky Mark as most people remember him from his rapping days...

Sarah Palin on SNL...

2008-10-20T01:04:00.001-05:00

Sunny California...

2008-07-12T12:37:00.008-05:00

It is a small world...

The other day while driving the bus at work (I drive for CTA in Chicago) I had a couple on my bus who told me they just moved back to Chicago from California. I asked what part, and they said San Diego. I told them that I lived there for a year and was married there.

They asked where abouts in San Diego we lived, and I told them Chula Vista. (Most people who live around San Diego say there from San Diego for ease of understanding). It turns out they lived in Chula Vista as well and on the same street me and my wife lived on, "F" Street.

My wife and I loved living in Chula Vista. The people were nice and the weather is the best in America!

So to all my California readers, we envy your climate down here in the Chicago area.

Just look at what endure for 5 months a year...

Adios Amigos!

Wide Awake DVD trailer featuring Erwin McManus

2008-07-09T02:02:00.000-05:00

Matt Chandler - Filling the Gap of Eternity...

2008-07-07T13:16:00.000-05:00

Comedy Central at Trinity UCC...

2008-06-02T19:20:00.004-05:00

In case you missed this hilarious performance by Michael Pfleger at Trinity United Church of Christ about a week ago, here it is.

He got in big trouble for this, but I don't see why anyone would take this kind of theater serious!

Anyway, let me know if you think he was wrong for sharing his honest opinion about the topic.

I've been acquainted with Michael Pfleger for a long time being from Chicago where he leads St. Sabina Catholic Church, so none of this surprised me. He's always been an entertainer!

When God allows tragedy...

2008-05-24T12:11:00.004-05:00

In case you haven't heard, the youngest daughter of Steven Curtis Chapman was tragically killed in an auto accident on their driveway on May 21st. I heard she was struck by her brother driving a vehicle and he didn't see her on the driveway. She is the one on Steven's lap in the photo above.

Makes you wonder about the will of God for his children. Makes you feel very vulnerable. I often think of my own children while at work and how blessed I am to have them, but how fragile life is and that one day any of them could be taken away by the hand of God. How would I handle that? How would you handle that? I guess we'll never really know unless we have to face that in our lives.

May God's grace cover the Chapman family during this time and may this tragedy be used for the benefit of others and for the glory of God.

To read more about this story, click here.

This song was written for his daughter a few months back. It seems very prophetic now...It's called "Cinderella"

Mexican words of the day...

2008-04-19T09:40:00.003-05:00

These are really funny, (and true) if you're Latino. If you're not, I think you can still find the humor in them. Give it a shot!

Mexican Words of the Day:

· "Shoulder"
My tia wanted 2 become a citizen but she didn't know how to read so I shoulder.

· "TEXAS"
My ruca always Texas me when I'm not home wondering where I'm at!

· "Herpes"
Me and my ruca ordered pizza. I got mine piece and she got herpes.

· "July"
Ju told me ju were going to tha store and July to me! Julyer!

· "Rectum"
I had 2 cars pero my wife rectum!

· "Juarez"
One day my abuelita slapped me and I said juarez your problem?"

· "CHICKEN"
I was going to go to the store with my wife pero chicken go herself.

I'm the Man...

2008-03-20T21:45:00.007-05:00

"I am that I am" - Cross Movement

2008-03-18T20:10:00.000-05:00

This is my favorite cut off their "House of Representatives" cd.

I think you'll enjoy it!

Let me know which ones you've enjoyed...

Montana by Salvador

2008-03-06T22:51:00.002-06:00

Here's another Latin Christian song worth dancing like a good Baptist to!

"En los Montes, En los Valles" by Marcos Witt

2008-03-05T22:09:00.003-06:00

This is one of my family's favorite Spanish Christian songs. We like listening to it and dancing to it on our way to church!

Enjoy...

The Joys of Fatherhood!

2008-02-29T12:48:00.001-06:00

If you're like me, I'm sure you can relate to everything in this video. My kids have certainly given me ample opportunity to grow in my sanctification!

Stupid Church Sign!

2008-02-20T12:58:00.003-06:00

How's this for dumb church signs?

This church is only a few minutes from my home. Thank God they didn't keep these words up for the whole summer!

Do you think this church is "missional?" NOT!!!

Funny Post about Church Announcements and Bulletins...

2008-02-18T23:52:00.005-06:00

This link was sent to me from a friend who found it on the 9marks website.

He thought I would enjoy it since I recently took over both of these areas at my church. (The bulletin and announcements!)

I think you'll it enjoy as well. Click here to see it!

Thanks Dan'l...

How To Get Men To Go To Church...

2008-02-02T13:16:00.000-06:00

This past week, I spent two days at an Acts 29 church planting conference near Chicago, with my wife and some close friends. See more about this at my other blog The Male Domain.

Mark Driscoll, who I've been listening to for over 10 years, spoke on "Preaching the Mission," and gave a very insightful, well thought out, biblically clear illustration about how to get Men to go your church, because statistically, the church in America is 60% female.

Driscoll says, and I agree, that if you get the Men you win the war!

His prescription for getting the Men...

"when one meathead comes to your church, kick him in the middle as hard as you can.
What he'll do is go tell his meathead friends that this guy in church kicks really hard and they need to come check this dude out."

Happy Planting!!!

Family Driven Education...

2007-12-19T21:54:00.000-06:00

Great perspective on Education from Voddie Baucham!

Missing Pastor Discovered After 27 Years...

2007-11-25T22:33:00.000-06:00

I heard this story on the radio driving to work a few days ago and was quite surprised. Not because of what this man did, after all, since Genesis 3 it's all been down hill for man, but because I know the church that this happened at.

My family and I actually visited this church about a year ago, and live about 20 minutes away from it. I even know the Pastor who fills the pulpit there regularly.

You can find the full story at the following link: Missing Pastor

Read, and enjoy!

John Piper on Testing Yourself...

2007-11-21T15:09:00.000-06:00

Was Pat Robertson Right? I Think Not...

2007-11-10T10:59:00.000-06:00

“It is my pleasure to announce my support for America’s Mayor, Rudy Giuliani, a proven leader who is not afraid of what lies ahead and who will cast a hopeful vision for all Americans. Rudy Giuliani took a city that was in decline and considered ungovernable and reduced its violent crime, revitalized its core, dramatically lowered its taxes, cut through a welter of bureaucratic regulations, and did so in he spirit of bipartisanship which is so urgently needed in Washington today. ”
-Pat Robertson

I don't disagree with Pat about what Rudy did for NY as Mayor, but to endorse a Man who is Pro Gay Rights and Pro Abortion, come on.

Not to mention the fact that Rudy's been divorced twice, married 3 times, and left his 2nd wife for a his 3rd who he was having an affair with during his 2nd marriage. Is he really who Pat Robertson, self proclaimed voice for Evangelicals in America, should be backing in this election?

For a good snap shot of Rudy's personal failures as a husband and father, look him up on Wikipedia.

Could you vote for Rudy? Could you do it with a clear conscience before the Lord, knowing his character on key issues like those mentioned?

Let me know what you think!

Republican, Conservative, Qualified, In a Cult!

2007-11-05T22:08:00.001-06:00

How bout it Men? Mitt Romney for President...Not! No thanks. Beside being a member of the Latter Day Saints (Mormons), Mr. Romney also owns shares in Marriott Hotels, which offer free porn in every room.

I've heard quite a buzz about how Christians will overlook his membership in one of the largest Cults in America come election day, and it leaves me scratching my head!!!

How can you sell out to a cult member and expect the Lord's blessing at the same time?

Yeah, he might seem white-washed from the outside, clean cut, pretty wife, good looking family, etc. etc., but what about the cross...the blood of Christ...the crown of thorns...the nail pierced hands...feet...side. What about Jesus. What would Jesus say to someone who votes to have a cult member, false god worshiper, and false gospel preacher rule over them?

We have a year to decide...may the Lord reveal a worthy leader!

Incredible Finish to a Game!

2007-11-02T22:35:00.000-05:00

I got this off my buddy Kevin's blog. Pretty amazing finish!

State of the Pulpit - Joel Osteen

2007-10-12T21:13:00.000-05:00

A Rebel's Guide To Joy - Robert Robinson

2007-10-11T13:32:00.000-05:00

Global Warming...Fact or Fiction?

2007-09-19T21:21:00.000-05:00

Is Al Gore right? Is the world heading for catastrophic disaster? Or is all this 'hype' about GW just that, 'hype?'

On George Barna's website, where I got this nifty picture, he wrote about how Christians are divided on the subject.

So what do you think?

Is GW real, and something to spend time trying to counteract?

Or is it all just a smoke screen designed to further split the American people right down the political spectrum?

Let me know what you think!

Driscoll on Denominations

2007-09-15T22:11:00.000-05:00

Spoken well by the guru!

Lifehouse Everything Gospel Skit...

2007-09-12T13:28:00.000-05:00

This drama is amazingly powerful. Watch and remember what Jesus has done for you!

To view in larger window, click here Life House Skit.

Top 10 Reasons You Know Your Pastor Isn't Called!

2007-09-07T14:46:00.000-05:00

I borrow the following list, with permission, from Henry (Rick) Frueh over at "Following Judah's Lion." The guy in the picture has nothing to do with the list. :-)

Thought it was funny and wanted to share it!

Top Ten Reasons You Know
Your Pastor Isn't Called

10. He doesn’t agree with you.
9. He cheats at golf.
8. He thinks “Pyromaniacs” is a disco group.
7. He thinks Thomas Nelson wrote the Bible.
6. She doesn’t wear enough makeup.
5. He wears too much makeup.
4. He thinks Plato is the original Greek.
3. He has “applause” lights on the front of the pulpit.
2. He thinks the movie “The Godfather” denied the Trinity.
1. He insists on including eunuchs in his altar calls.

The Rapture - End Times

2007-09-04T21:34:00.000-05:00

Do you think it will go down like this?

How To Hug A Man!

2007-08-31T14:19:00.000-05:00

VideoJug: How To Give A Great Man To Man Hug

You know, the sad thing is that these guys look like your "normal" Christian boys growing up in America!

"Macho Man" w/ Mark Driscoll

2007-08-29T13:01:00.000-05:00

Emerging Vs Emergent - Mark Driscoll

2007-08-25T03:51:00.000-05:00

Taken from John Piper's 2006 Desiring God Conference.

Another LOL Church...

2007-08-24T04:52:00.000-05:00

herchurch.org

Ebenezer Lutheran Church, San Francisco - ELCA

A Reconciling In Christ Congregation

A house of prayer for all people

A home for women's spirituality

The Lutheran Feminist/Womanist Movement exists to celebrate the feminine persona of God/dess and dimensions of the sacred as expressed in faith, worship, learning, mutual care, and acts of justice.

For a quick laugh, visit Her Church, and watch to promo video they have on their main page.

You're gonna love it!

When Emergent Goes Very Bad...

2007-08-24T04:32:00.000-05:00

I got the following video from a post at Dead-Theologians Blog.

It's classic!

How many scriptures violated?

A House Divided...

2007-08-20T22:15:00.001-05:00

"11am til 12pm on Sunday mornings
is the most racially segregated
hour in America."
-Dr. Tony Evans

Is Dr. Evans right?

If so, why is it that we seem to gather with those of our own ethnic group when it comes to worshiping the Lord?

I feel fortunate to attend a church that has seen the racial lines crossed when it comes to church attendance, but I know many that have yet to have success in this area.

Well, then again, is racial diversity that important in churches? Does it even matter who goes to what church? Are churches with multi-ethnic attenders healthier, better, more representative of what Christ wants, or just multi-ethnic with no positives to that?

Should churches go out of there way to attract different ethnic groups, or should they just focus on strengthening the people who have chosen to gather with them every Sunday and not worry about who's not there?

Let me know your thoughts!

Ultimate Fighting Christians...

2007-08-17T03:49:00.000-05:00

I was reading an article by a Pastor I have a great deal of respect for, and he mentioned that he'll be attending next Saturday's UFC Event, UFC 74 Respect, along with his worship Pastor, compliments of a gift from some guys in Randy Couture's camp.

He went on to say that reportedly, many of the fighters in the UFC are Christians, and asked that we pray for them and their families.

So here's my questions:

What do think of UFC's (ultimate fighting Christians) being in the UFC (ultimate fighting championship)?

Any scripture violated by these guys?

Is this an acceptable vocation or side gig to help make some xtra loot?

How should churches and church leaders counsel their male members with regard to sports this intense?

Is the UFC any different from pro boxing? Remember how much Evangelicals loved Evander Holyfield?

Linebacker Evangelism!

2007-08-15T04:20:00.000-05:00

Not a bad ministry idea for ex-jocks!

G.I. Jane and the Bible

2007-08-07T11:13:00.001-05:00

Currently, women make up about 13% of the U.S. Armed forces, approximately 32,000, which seems great, right? At least it is for the radical feminist movement.

But how do we as Christians feel about it. What does the bible say about women serving in the military? Should we as redeemed, born-again, given the mind of Christ individuals think differently about such matters. Or should we just tuck tale and go along with the program.

Don't know about you, but as a past military man myself, knowing the negative side of military culture, and knowing what the word of God says about it, I'm against the notion! I've written about the topic of women fighting in a post called "When Should Men Fight", in my blog The Male Domain.

Douglas Wilson also wrote an insightful article on the subject entitled "Gender Warriors" a while back that I would commend to you. Read it, then come back and share your thoughts!

'Free Will'...Does it Exist?

2007-08-03T03:40:00.000-05:00

Over the past week, I've been taking part in a very lively discussion on the topic of 'Free Will' over at Dead Theologians Blogspot, and have read some wide ranging responses to the question of whether or not it exists.

So what do you think?

Does the bible ever say that Man has a Free Will?

Does Man decide through his Free Will whether he will believe in Christ for salvation?

Does Man's Free Will override God's desires for him?

Let me know what you think!

Thinking Higher...w/John Piper!

2007-07-28T04:26:00.000-05:00

Dr. Piper says the greatest "buzz" or "enjoyment" one can get living disconnected from God is Sex.

Without God, Sex is just a transaction. With God, Sex is an act of worship!

Share your thoughts!

John Piper On the Prosperity Gospel

2007-07-28T04:08:00.000-05:00

Is Piper right, wrong, or somewhere in between?

I don't know about you, but I have thoroughly enjoyed listening to John Piper throughout the years, and have learned a great deal from him.

His passion for the word and right living is commendable.

If you haven't heard Dr. Piper preach the cross, you're theological training is incomplete!

Benny Hinn - A Prophet For Today...Yikes!!!

2007-07-27T04:58:00.000-05:00

Your Future: Determined or Dynamic?

2007-07-20T03:53:00.000-05:00

A few months back, I was watching a vodcast on itunes from Mosaic Church, and the Pastor, Erwin Raphael McManus, posed the question about whether or not the future is determined (nothing can be done to change it- as determined by God) or dynamic (you control your own destiny and cooperate with God in forging your own future).

So I thought I'd throw it out there for feedback and see what you think.

Is the future already predetermined, and you can do nothing to alter what God has already chosen for you?

Or, is the future dynamic, and what lies ahead has yet to be determined by God, and won't be known until it becomes your present reality?

Let me know what you think!

You can retrieve the sermon I'm referencing called "Is God In Your Future?" by subscribing to Mosaic's podcast or vodcast with itunes. You can always unsubscribe after you download it.

Children and Communion

2007-07-19T03:45:00.001-05:00

In keeping with the theme of Christian Communion, I'd be interested in hearing what you have to say about Children partaking of the Lord's Supper.

Perhaps specifying an age would be appropriate. So let's say children as meaning 12 and under.

Some Questions:

Should all children who have professed faith in Christ take communion, regardless of their age?
Should children who have professed faith in Christ but have not gotten baptized take communion?
Is it right for parents to withhold the taking of communion from any of their believing children, even though Lord commands all of His followers to partake at the table?
Does a child's profession of faith in the Lord Jesus as Savior grant them the 'right' to partake of communion?
Do parents forbid their children from following any other commandments of the Lord?

Let me know your thoughts!

Wine, Grape Juice, or Both!

2007-07-16T13:33:00.000-05:00

Communion is such a sacred part of being a Christian, and therefore demands that we think deeply about it. We should seek to emulate, to best of our capabilities, what the Lord wanted us to do each time we take the Lord's Supper.

So I'm asking some questons:

Should Christian churches use real wine at communion, like Jesus did when he instituted the sacrament?
Would using real wine 'add' anything to the partaking of it? Be it historical, contextual, etc.?
What is your personal preference? Wine, Grape Juice, or maybe offering both and allowing the congregates to choose.
How often should churches take communion? Weekly, monthly, etc..

Let me know your thoughts!

My Own Prison - Creed

2007-07-15T00:22:00.000-05:00

If your familiar with "Creed", let me know what you think of them. If not read the lyrics below, watch the video, and share your thoughts.

The lead singers an interesting subject. Word has it that he grew up in a strict Pentecostal home and as punishment, his Dad would have him write out entire passages of scripture. He says that's why when he sits down to write lyrics, the spiritual floodgates open and he pens whats there.

They have some great stuff. Too bad they broke up a few years back. They'll live on in my cd player!!!

This song is one of my favaorites from them along "Arms Wide Open" and "Higher".

The lyrics are shown below.

For not being a "Christian" band, their lyrics sure are Biblical!!!

CREED LYRICS

"My Own Prison"

A court is in session, a verdict is in
No appeal on the docket today
Just my own sin
The walls are cold and pale
The cage made of steel
Screams fill the room
Alone I drop and kneel
Silence now the sound
My breath the only motion around
Demons cluttering around
My face showing no emotion
Shackled by my sentence
Expecting no return
Here there is no penance
My skin begins to burn

(And I said oh) So I held my head up high
Hiding hate that burns inside
Which only fuels their selfish pride
(And I said oh) We're all held captive
Out from the sun
A sun that shines on only some
We the meek are all in one

I hear a thunder in the distance
See a vision of a cross
I feel the pain that was given
On that sad day of loss
A lion roars in the darkness
Only he holds the key
A light to free me from my burden
And grant me life eternally

Should have been dead
On a Sunday morning
Banging my head
No time for mourning
Ain't got no time

(And I said oh) So I held my head up high
Hiding hate that burns inside
Which only fuels their selfish pride
(And I said oh) We're all held captive
Out from the sun
A sun that shines on only some
We the meek are all in one

[Guitar break]

I cry out to God
Seeking only his decision
Gabriel stands and confirms
I've created my own prison
I cry out to God
Seeking only his decision
Gabriel stands and confirms
I've created my own prison

(And I said oh) So I held my head up high
Hiding hate that burns inside
Which only fuels their selfish pride
(And I said oh) We're all held captive
Out from the sun
A sun that shines on only some
We the meek are all in one

(And I said oh) So I held my head up high
Hiding hate that burns inside
Which only fuels their selfish pride
(And I said oh) We're all held captive
Out from the sun
A sun that shines on only some
We the meek are all in one

Should've been dead on a Sunday morning
banging my head
No time for mourning
Ain't got no time

Child Preacher Anyone?

2007-07-14T04:04:00.000-05:00

This is classic. The kid got skills.

What do you think?

Any issues with children preachers?

Is he legit...or should he quit?

Pope John Paul II, In Heaven or Not?

2007-07-13T04:21:00.000-05:00

A few weeks back my extended family and I engaged a very spirited discussion about whether or not John Paul II was in heaven or not. (We also talked about Mother Teresa and her life of sacrifice, and asked whether or not she was is heaven.)

The thoughts ranged from absolutely not, to yes, to perhaps if he repented on his death bed.

So what do you think?

Did his good works spring from a saving faith in Christ?... Or from a doctrine of must have good works in order to make it to heaven?

Let me know what you think.

The Gospel According to Oprah

2007-07-12T12:27:00.000-05:00

In case you were thinking Oprah was Evangelical Christianities best kept secret, think again.

I think Oprah's a fine humanitarian, if not a truly born-again Christian. I've enjoyed many of her shows over the years, but know she mixes and matches religions like a good chef at a fine diner!

Let me know what you think!

Worship... Mosaic Style!

2007-07-12T11:09:00.000-05:00

What do you think?

Is this acceptable worship during a church service? Why or why not?

Mosaic does this type of stuff often during their church services.

How 'bout the song, pretty good huh! Beware the televangelists!!!

Christian Tattoo Artists

2007-07-11T03:40:00.001-05:00

This is Seattle tattoo artist and shop owner Damon Conklin. Scary dude, right? Think again.
He's an evangelical Christian who uses tattoos as a form of religious expression.

Christian tattoo shops are gaining a lot momentum these days. Some of the artwork being done is fantastic. But not all would agree that tattoos on Christians is OK, right?

So I'm asking what you think.

Should Christians get tattoos?

Is any scripture violated by getting them?

What message is sent by Christians who get them or have them, like myself?

To read the full article on the tattoo artist above click here! I could be wrong, but I believe he goes to Mars Hill.

Apostolic Gifts...Alive or Dead?

2007-07-10T13:25:00.000-05:00

Do you think the Apostolic gifts ceased when the apostles died?

Do gifts of Miracles, Tongues, Healing, etc., still exist today? If yes, how so and what's their purpose? If no, what biblical precedent do you have to make such a claim?

Death Penalty - Yes or No

2007-07-09T22:13:00.001-05:00

OK, what side are you on?

Should we execute people found guilty of heinous crimes?

What does the bible say about the death penalty?

Does Genesis 9:6 still apply? Why or why not?

6 "Whoever sheds man’s blood, By man his blood shall be shed; For in the image of God He made man.

Let me know!

8 Reasons I Don't share My Faith

2007-07-09T22:08:00.000-05:00

Funny stuff.

Is this you?

Let me know!

Your Friend Before and After the Bible

2007-07-09T12:56:00.000-05:00

Who knows who the guy on right with the black t-shirt is?

What about Bono?

2007-07-09T12:41:00.000-05:00

What do think of Bono, lead singer and songwriter for U2.

He claims a faith in Christ, gives a ton of money for famine relief and Aids cure to Africa, writes beautiful songs like 'Psalm 40' that many churches sing for worship, but doesn't claim any membership at any church, has no known spiritual authority in his life other than God, and to my knowledge, isn't a church going guy.

Let me know your thoughts!

Lady Preacher Anyone?

2007-07-09T12:30:00.000-05:00

The video quality isn't the greatest, but it's too good to pass up.

Any theological issues here?

Should Women Rule Over Men?

2007-07-09T12:16:00.000-05:00

How 'bout it guys...Hillary for President. What do you think?

Would you ever vote for a woman to rule over you?

Does the bible say anything about the issue?

What about women who are better leaders than men, should they be in charge?