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ANG PINAKABAGONG KABABALIWAN NG MARAMING MAHILIG MANOOD SA YOUTUBE, ANG MOY MOY BINABOY. PAMASKONG HATID NG MOY MOY BINABOY PRODUCTIONS. STARRING DEXTER HIDALGO AND KRISTOFFER GONONG, DIRECTED BY FRANZ VALMONTE.

IS CHRISTIAN MUSIC GOING SECULAR?

SEATTLE - Sixpence None the Richer hits it big with "Kiss
Me", Ghoti Hook gets huge airplay on M2/MTV, the Gospel
Music Association defines Christian music, Bob Carlisle
beats out the Spice Girls on the Billboard charts. What is
happening to Christian music? Is it a good thing?
Over the past few weeks, while flipping through channels
on the tube, we were amazed at how many times Sixpence
None the Richer's video "Kiss Me" was playing! It was on
VH1, M2, MTV and Canada's Muchmusic. Then, we heard it
at the gym, on secular radio stations, and in stores at the mall.
The only place we hadn't heard it yet was on Muzak in the
elevator and interestingly enough, on any Christian radio
stations.

Fulfilling our goal of being the world's largest Christian
concert search engine, we contacted Sixpence's booking
agency, KB Productions for a tour update. To our surprise,
they informed us that "they're not doing any Christian
concerts anymore". We replied, "Oh? We have them down
for numerous festival appearances this summer". They
replied, "well maybe some festivals". We then do what we
always do and try to get to the source of best information
for the band. We contacted Tim Rauter of Squint
Entertainment who then informed us that "KB is not
doing any more booking for Sixpence. They are being
handled by the William Morris Agency". He also added
that "Sixpence definitely will be doing more Christian
concerts, but right now they are doing more secular
venues". In fact, as of this printing, our database shows
that Sixpence has been opening up for such acts as the
Bare Naked Ladies and are currently touring in the UK.
When VH1 did an artist spotlight on the band, no mention
was made of their Christian beliefs or to their roots in
Christian music.




Christian music has been the only genre of commercial
music experiencing double digit growth. The nature of
Christian music has changed dramatically over the past
few years being accepted and almost embraced by
secular record companies and retailers eager to cash in
on this multi million dollar industry. These changes have
recently led the Gospel Music Association to adopt the
following criteria in determining whether a song is
Christian in nature and can be eligible to receive a Dove
Award, the organization's coveted annual prize. It
reads, "Gospel music is music in any style whose lyric
is substantially based upon historically orthodox
Christian truth contained in or derived from the Holy
Bible; and/or an expression of worship of God or praise
for His works; and/or testimony of relationship with
God through Christ; and/or obviously prompted and
informed by a Christian world view." With that new
definition in place, Michael W Smith's latest single,
"Love Me Good", among other contenders, was deemed
ineligible because it failed to fall within the GMA's
definition of Christian music.

Instead of espousing the views of one organization such
as ourselves or GMA's upon you, our readers, we have
decided to ask your input. Virtually every day of the year,
we receive an itinerary from an artist or band we have
never heard of. Before we broadcast their concert dates
to the world, we try to determine if the artist or band
indeed plays Christian music. What should our criteria be?

For example,...
Recently, we received complaints that Mxpx was not a
Christian band because they only play secular venues
with secular bands. When we pulled the itineraries, we
were bombarded with requests from our subscribers for
their tour schedules. In fact, Mxpx is the 21st most
requested artist or band in our database that our readers
wish to see in concert. We've included their tour dates
back into our database. We recently received concert
details that Juliana Theory would be playing at
Cornerstone. When we asked the band if they were indeed
a Christian band, they responded, "We are not a Christian
band. Rockit!"

Where is Christian music going? Is it really going secular?
Should websites such as ours have a criteria for Christian
music like GMA does for the Dove Awards? Is music
Christian because it talks of Christ or is Christian music
any music that is performed by an artist or band who
professes Christianity? What do you think?

HERE'S WHAT SOME OF YOU ARE SAYING...

Please email us your responses by CLICKING HERE and
within the subject of your email, type CCA NEWS. By
doing so, you grant us permission to reprint your opinion
on this topic. We will publish your responses right here
on this page so check back again soon.--©1999 CCA
BREAKING NEWS

"If the issue could be boiled down to one thing, it would have
to be this: To what degree does the existence of this dichotomy
of "Christian" music vs. "secular" music serve to help, or hurt,
the completion of the Great Comission? To me, it seems to
hurt. The one thing it seems to insure most is that many non-
Christians will never hear the message Christian artists have
to share, whether due to lack of accessibility in the
marketplace, or to refusal to listen due to the "Christian"
label placed on the music. Music is more than art to be
enjoyed. It is a channel with which to communicate messages.
Every artist does that, christian and non-christian alike,
whether intentionally or otherwise. My hat goes off to those
Christians who are being good stewards of the talents God
has given them by purposefully using their art to
communicate God's love and Truth in the secular
marketplace. I aspire to follow in your footsteps. God help us
as Christians not to love the world, but to love the people in it
enough to carry the message of the gospel to them where ever
they may be, through whatever means available--including
music. "Is Christian music going secular?" I hope so."

Dallas Perry

"I feel that maybe one or two groups I would consider to be
secular. I feel that they say that they are Christians yet
never sing a word about God in some of their songs. I'll take
Amy Grant for example, she has a few good Christian songs
but, a lot of them have a secular base which I don't even
mention God's name. I feel that they are just doing the songs
to be on the charts or the money. They should be serving God
not themselves. I think you guys did give six-pence non the
richer a chance but, I feel that they were never a Christian
band to begin with. When first heard the song, "Kiss me," I
thought to myself, " What does that have to do with God?"
Well my answer to that is nothing. I feel that if they want to
be considered a Christian band, SING IT, don't say it, and
LIVE IT. If they would allow God to work through them they
could become an awesome band. My Christian friends in
school ask me what kind of music I listen to and I say
Contemporary Christian. Then I say, " Like DC TALK,
newsboys,Rebecca St. James." They automatically say, " Oh,
I have their CD. They are so cool." Gee DC TALK, and
newsboys, Rebecca St. James talk about God all the time
and they didn't have to write any secular songs to get that
popular among the lost. That's because they allowed God to
work through them. Yes, it did take some time but, I do think
it was worth it. When I hear the song, "Kiss Me," I feel that
they are talking about sex. And that's usually the impression
left on most teenagers. Keep up the good work and continue
to let God shine through you guys!!"

Love in Christ,
Rebecca (teenager from Monticello, MN)

"The whole thing is, Christian music never gave bands like
Sixpence None the Richer a chance. They have always been
on the boarder between cutting edge and pop; they have
always given Christian music something that is creative
and pushes the envelope without being strange or
unaccessible. They were right in time with secular bands
like 10,000 Maniacs, Natalie Merchant, Mazzy Star,
Counting Crows, etc.--all bands that have received much
acclaim. And they were not copying these bands, but had
their own sound. Yet the Christian music industry seems to
ignore bands like this. As far as the money aspect.
Sixpence was stuck with a record deal with a company that
had to file bankruptcy at least once. This company was
probably also feeling the constraints of trying to push
cutting edge music in this market and I am not blaming
them. Sixpence had no control over albums that were
frozen, could only be distributed by Spring Arbor (while
the record company was having money trouble), and could
not shop these albums to another label. Even beyond that,
history has shown that bands like this and the Choir, The
Prayer Chain, etc. CAN'T make money in the Christian
market because they are not properly marketed and people
just don't want to listen, even though these bands have
broken so much ground musically and lyrically for the
Christian market. (I name less controversial bands, who I
admit, have done things that people question, but these are
often because they are struggling with understanding their
place in a market that doesn't want them, puts excessive
restrictions on them, and won't support them--when they
could quit caring and make a mint if they played the trash
that the rest of the world wants.) Switching over to the
secular market is not a greed issue as much as realizing
that if one stays in the Christian market one will be
unemployed and bankrupt. I'm thankful that so many
bands can switch without playing trash or watering down
their message. And also for the ones who stay even when
money is tight. Unfortunately, once a band signs with a
secular management, (who is going to keep them out of
the red financially) they have certain contractual
restrictions that apply. These include doing concerts with
bands that will help promote sales and unfortunately not
with Christian bands. Finally, Sixpence's latest album
was out for close to six months before the single was
snatched up by MTV and the radio. The Christian market
ignored the album (which has excellent lyrics but, believe
it or not, is even more cutting edge than before). Yet they
made it big. And when they did, Christian teens wanted
the album, which was never marketed well in the Christian
realm, so these teens were first exposed to it in the secular
realm. I thank God that they still have a reputation as a
Christian band and stand out from the crowd. Thank you
for listening."

With much love,
Jason Ruona (Oshkosh, WI)

"It's great that we have organizations that try to weed out the
non-christian bands from the ones that serve God. Bottom
line is--as a parent of a child, God has ordered the parents to
ultimately be responsible for their children. Of course with
God, the pastor, the youth pastor and any other "Christian
authority" God sends along a teen's path and the foundation
layed down at home, we pray our teens will grow to be
"mighty warriors" for God. I have four boys (the oldest 13)
and only allow them to listen to christian music. We don't
care if it is rock, rap, ska or punk rock. So, just getting into
the teen-years with my first one, it's really scarey! I assumed
if the CD was bought at a christian book store---it was
christian. Wrong. It was a Creed CD and I heard a couple of
songs I wondered about. They have a website, and the say
"we are not a christian band". Even though most of the
songs refer to God or the Bible. The go so far as saying GD
in one of the songs. So, as parents we must always be on
guard for the enemy!!! He is always just waiting to get his
foot in the door. Listen when God sends up red flags, even
though it's bought in a christian store or some of the songs
sound good, if you don't feel comfortable about it check it
out yourself. Ultimately, we as parents need all the help we
can get, so I Praise God for this web site for us to use. Keep
up the great work!"

Keep your eyes on Jesus,
Rhonda Scherb

"My roommate and i are both christians. we have bible
studies regularly together and live daily holding each
other accountable in our continuous journey to pursue a
deeper relationship with Jesus, and in leaning to become
more like Him. Does this mean i live in a "Christian"
house? or that i have a "Christian" cat? is my car a
"Christian" car because it is owned and operated by a
Christian? Why, then, do we apply this sort of standard to
music? Why must it be labelled. i say this: more power to
the band that specifically dislabels themselves as
"Christian." are you shocked? allow me to explain. Jesus
did not spend His time amongst the "righteous" and at the
time, He was considered unrighteuos for doing so.
Christians of today can look back at the lucidity of
situations in which the Pharisees were sure that Jesus was
demon-possessed. But they were so sure that they were
right!.......so let's get on our knees, folks, and let's allow
our SOVEREIGN God make known to us the truth of each
band individually. Love rejoices in the truth."

Underneath my scaly humanness,
Amelie Riley

"Christian Music as a whole is not going secular. Only a few
Christian groups are going secular. There is no need to
worry about Christian music. However, it makes the industry
"look bad" when a well known Christian group goes secular.
There is more money to be made in the secular industry and
some groups may feel like becoming millionaires insteading
of spreading the Gospel through song. That is a issue that
should be discussed with the individuals and their God.
Hopefully, thay are making this switch to bring more money
into God's ministry. If it is for selfish reasons then it is
totally in vain. On the other hand, it may be a good thing
for a Christian group to perform with secular groups at
concerts. After the audience heard songs about drugs, sex,
and other sinful things, they get to hear a "peculiar" song
that brings a message of a savior that can deliver them
from drugs , sex, and other sinful things. Also remember
that there are several secular artist incorporating the
Gospels into their music intentionally or not. To name a
few, we have Lauryn Hill, R. Kelly, Kelly Price, Faith Evans,
Robbie Williams ("Millenium"), and other well respected
secular artists. The question should be Is secular music going
religious?"

Mr Big

"I believe the Christian music scene is in trouble in many
areas. First, most of the labels are secularly owned! The
ones at the top giving the orders are not saved...what a
tragedy. Also, Christian music is a high dollar industry
for the labels. Although I believe we must be light in
darkness, I think we jeopardize the message when the
bands no longer play "Christian concerts." On one hand,
yes God is able to reach a whole new crowd of unsaved
people, BUT the problem is that Christian teens are going
to secular concerts to see their favorite bands! We all
know that teens have enough influence on them from the
world to have to see their favorite Christian band play
where alcohol is sold...where the name of Jesus is
nowhere being lifted up. As far as the bands, where does
Holiness and accountability come in? We teach our kids
to live a Godly life and stay away from the temptations of
the world, yet they have to go to secular venues to see
these "Christian" bands play. I think it is sad and I think
God is grieved. If a Christian band wants to play secular
music for entertainment, then they need to declare that...
but to advertise as a Christian band and then only play in
secular places....that is a double standard! God help us!
You haven't even touched the aspect that a lot of
"Christian bands" are full of musicians that aren't
following Christ. I know first hand this is true. Many of the
artists on the labels are saved, but the label picks the
bands a lot of the time and just try to get the best...
sometimes leaving out the "Christian" aspect! We need to
be praying for our Christian Music industry for God to
bring a radical revival to the hearts of every label
executive and every musician/band!"

Shari Hicks
Deerbrook Church
Houston, TX

Praise God. As a Christian Musician, songwriter, and
youth pastor, I've been believing God for a long time to
restore rightouesness to the Christian Music industry.
I think GMA's decision is awesome. They will get flack
from many Christians, but God will honor their decision.
Success is pleasing GOD! I believe there will soon be a
large swing in the 'industry' to GOD! As this happens we
will all get back to the simplicity of loving God and
others and God will use the music to glorify HIS name,
reach the lost, and deliver the oppressed. And as
Christian Musicians stop trying to be like the world and
shine as a light, the world will come to us. As for your
database and company. Honor the Lord and he will honor
you."

Richy Clark

"I think the GMA definition is a good starting point, but it
doesn't go far enough too. Many CCM artists don't write
their own songs, they are manufactured by the LABELS. The
GMA definition doesn't take in account whether the band is
ministry oriented or not. I think whether the band is
ministry oriented and relevant should be our #1 criteria.
I've been involved as in the Christian Underground Music
scene for sevens years now, and I've seen most of the bands
and artists you mention in your article. Some of them never
had any ministry element to them in the first place. So, it's
not surprising to me that they have chose the fame and
fortune of the Secular World over serving our Lord. Another
thing that is wrong with the GMA definition if an artist
writes a song about a life experience that's not overtly
Christian, and their label chooses it as their single they
don't get supported. Which, I don't know if that's right or not.
The state of Christian Music is the LABELS' fault, not the
bands or even Christian Radio. The Labels sign the bands
and approve their releases. Many labels have no REAL
Spiritual Litmus test as a criteria to sign a band or artist.
One label executive boasted to me after an interview, "we
always try make sure that there's at least one Christian in the
band, most of the time we want it to be front person of the
band." With standards like these no wonder Christian Music
is in the state it's in. The GMA and Christian Radio needs to
hold the labels accountable for the artists they sign. I don't
think we can set an over and under on how many times a
song has "Jesus" , "GOD", "Lord", etc.. for airplay nor
should we take for granted that an artist is playable because
their marketed by their label for Christian airplay either.
Bands and Artists should be judged by their fruit and what
they're about."

Joe Coker
Rock of God Ministries

"I think that the GMA definition of Christian music is
correct, but let's not condemn a Christian artist for making
it big with a non-christain song. Let's just face it, most of the
audiences that a Christian band will play for in it's lifetime
are mostly Christians. So let's look at it like this: These that
crossover and make it big get to share Jesus with more non
christains than most of us will ever get to. I would consider
it a blessing and an honor if God allowed my band to be
signed by Virgin records, or to play big shows with big
name artists. I pray for some of these bands every night,
that they can keep their faith in spite of national fame.
What I'm saying is this: "Kiss me" may not be a Christian
song, but Sixpence None the Richer is still a Christian
band even though their hit song makes no mention of God.
Let's lift them up and hope that God will use our music in
the same way."

Jacob Seal

"As a Christian musician in a Christian modern rock
band, I think that the answer to this question is obvious.
First, let's remember that we are each personally
accountable to God for our own actions- whether a label
told us to do it or not. Now let's address the question. One
way to decide if it's Christian music is to listen to the
message (people still do that, right?). Is it edifying or is it
detrimental? Does it reveal Truth or mob rules? Let's
remember that selling records should not mean selling
your soul (or something like that). Which leads me to the
next point. Not everyone who professes to be a Christian is a
Christian. Let's see what that old book, um, you know- the, oh
yes- The Bible has to say. A tree is judged by the fruit it
bears (loosely paraphrased)- or a Christian band is judged
by the music it plays. The reason I play Christian music is
to glorify my God and to carry out the Great Commission
(in a relative language spoken today). I can't speak for
others, nor do I want to judge anyone (that's God's job),
but how can lyrics and music that have nothing to do with
Jesus be called Christian? Some are in it for the music
some are in it for the money- some are in it for the ministry,
and that's cool. But if the music has no ministry in it, then
it's not Christian music- even if all the members are devout
believers. That's not saying that they're sinning- they just
don't play Christian music. On the other hand, I don't
consider Metallica or Joan Osbourne Christian music just
because they mention God (boy do they have a surprise
awaiting them). If our hearts are in the right place, then
God will use us regardless of what label is put on us. But
if the music isn't Christian, then it's not Christian music."

Freddy

"As a manager for local Christian musicians in the
Dallas/Ft. Worth area, I have seen the infiltration of secular
record labels trying to cash in on the success of Christian
Music. The truth is, many of these companies are really
wolves dressed in sheep clothing. There have been many
bands that originally started out with the purpose of
spreading the Word of God through music but got
derailed when signing on with a secular based label or
even a secular booking agency. It saddens me when I
hear the comments of artists who say they no longer
perform Christian Music. Many times, this is a result of
companies pushing artists to going mainstream in order
to enhance their own profitability. Where ever there is a
possibility of monetary gain, there will be individuals
who seek to exploit it for their own selfish desires. It is
important for Christian Artists to discern who they
associate with in a business relationship because of
these threats. These external threats boil down to being
works of Satan looking to bring down God called
ministries. We need to pray for the Christian Music
Industry because there is indeed corruption in it and
there are definitly evil infiltrations threatning its future
and internal fabric."

James P.

"I agree with the GMA's definition. I think that is what you
should use, unless you want to come up with another rating
system for songs that are 1 - Totally within the definition, 5 -
barely in the definition 7 - Mentioned God once in songs or
10 - are Christians even though they sound like demons.
I think it is incredibly sad that so many artists have sold out
their beliefs for money and popularity. If their music is to get
my attention on my Father or to lead other to him it is
obviously Christian. That is what kind of music I should see
when I access "Christian" Concert Authority."

In Him<><
Mindy

"I completely agree with GMA's definition of what CHRISTIAN
music is. Our whole purpose is to bring glory to our Lord
Jesus Christ. If the lyrics of a "Christian" song don't do this,
then the song should not be considered Christian music."

In Christ,
Josh R.

"I only listen to Christian music. I like to hear songs about
Jesus, not a lost relationship or someone blaming God.
I heard that there were alot of drugs at a recent MXPX
concert!! Why would I want to go to that? Anyway, what
I'm trying to say is, these bands have an awesome talent,
if they don't praise God with it then they better stop
touring and figure out what is really important in life."

In Christ,
Phil

"We believe Christian Music should give God glory and
reflect biblical principles that direct people to Jesus.
We feel the GMA criteria is good. However, a song such
as Michael W Smith's, "Love me good", would not be
considered Christian under such criteria. On the other
hand, would it truly be considered secular?"

Rick Bernard and Pete Alvelais

"...Recently, a local Dallas/Ft. Worth booking agent
seemed to be proud of the fact that there's a Christian
band in the line-up for the Lilith Fair tour. I didn't
know who he was talking about, but Sixpence None
the Richer seemed to sound like the name of a Christian
band, and so it's interesting to find out that they indeed
got their start in Christian music. I'm not necessarily
opposed to Christians performing in what has been
traditionally non-Christian venues. It's just that Lilith
is such a bad girl. Planned Parenthood, the largest abortion
providerin America, is sponsoring the Lilith Fair concerts.
Planned Parenthood loves Lilith. Lilith loves Planned
Parenthood. That's because Lilith loved to "...prey
eternally upon newborn human babies..." and
Planned Parenthood loves to prey upon unborn
babies. What with Sixpence None the Richer going
on to the big times at Lilith Fair, it seems that these
days Jesus Christ is a pretty good stepping stone for
success. I think that the industry should start a Step
on Jesus Awards thing. At first, Christian musicians
would have a problem with it being called the Step
On Jesus Awards, but hey, there's a whole lot more
Christian musicians that want their ego stroked than
the Dove awards can accomodate. Most Christian
musicians are a bunch of beggers. They, and other
industry people, can talk one mean spiritual talk.
The bottom line, though, is that they would sell their
soul to the devil for a big record contract. The
Christian music establishment is corrupt. It seems
that even when it's not about money - it's still about
money. It's time for a revolution in Christian music."

James Versyp

"I feel that with the world the way it is today, many people
will never step foot in a church or Christian venue of any
kind. I think it's good that Christian bands have now entered
into the secular world to reach all kinds of people that
would normally not be reached by Christian music. At the
same time though, we as Christian have a faithful duty to
uphold as servants to our Father. We are to uplift His name
in all things. We are to confess with our mouth.. go ye into
the world and preach the gospel. If you care enough about
your Lord and Savior to call yourself a Christian to other
Christians, then you need to love Jesus enough to not be
ashamed to call yourself a Christian even in the secular
world. So if you're going to say it, you need to live it and
reflect it. Christian bands in the secular music industry
need to go forth and preach the message with Jesus' name
included in that message. Afterall, if we don't tell the world
about Jesus and what He gave for us.. who will?? As a
member of the Christian rock band Latreia', it is my duty in
service to the Lord to speak His name to all people. Jesus
was all things to all people and this is what we pattern our
music after. Bottom line is this.. if you love Him, you will
tell others about Him, and trust Him to take care of you..
not the music industry.

in His service,

Shawna
lead singer of Latreia'
Oklahoma

Creed

Stapp: I Am a Christian
by Mark Moring
posted 08/09/04

In Creed's almost ten years together—including a few where they were one of the hottest rock bands on the planet—nobody ever asked lead singer Scott Stapp if he was a Christian. Many asked if Creed was a Christian band, and their reply was always no—even though some of their lyrics included a message of faith. But no one ever directly asked Stapp about his beliefs. Well, we asked him the other day, and Stapp says he's glad no one asked him about it until now. Read on to find out why.

In this exclusive interview with Christian Music Today,

Related: • Passion: Track Listing

Stapp discusses his faith journey, Creed's recent breakup, and his solo career, which officially kicks off with the August 31 release of The Passion of the Christ: Songs, a new album featuring multiple artists—including Stapp, P.O.D., Third Day, Lauryn Hill, Kirk Franklin, MxPx and others—who were inspired by Mel Gibson's landmark film. Stapp's contribution to the project, a song called "Relearn Love," is the first single off the album, hitting radio airwaves this week.

First things first: Why did Creed break up?

Scott Stapp: Mark [Creed guitarist Mark Tremonti] and I had been working together for the last ten years. There comes a point with any collaboration like that where you start having other interests creatively. I was moving in one direction musically, and as a guitar player, Mark wanted to move in another direction. That was essentially the reason we broke up. Those feelings actually started happening right after Human Clay (1999), and we went ahead and made Weathered (2001) together. [Tremonti and Creed drummer Scott Phillips went on to form a new band, Alter Bridge, whose debut album releases on Wind-Up Records on August 10.]

Sounds like it was a friendly break-up.

Stapp: When something like that happens, people want to try to find some dirt and make it more of a soap opera. But I think we both walked away with the door still open, if we want to do something together again. So yeah, I would call it a friendly break-up.

How did you get involved in the Passion songs project?

Stapp: They flew me out to a private screening of the film last summer, and to meet Mel Gibson, to kind of get a vibe on what was going on.

So, the film moved you to the point where you felt like you had to write a song?

Stapp: Actually, there was already a song percolating inside of me, so to speak, concerning a renewal in my heart. Interestingly, my personal life and my spiritual walk were kind of coming full circle around the same time I was asked to be involved in the project. I had been shedding all the callousness and the weathered state that I had been in, personally and spiritually, even prior to seeing the film. Seeing the film just kind of closed the door and allowed that song to be born.

What had triggered those spiritual changes in your life?

Stapp: A lot of personal things. I was hurt and beaten down. Five years ago, I had a divorce that I didn't really want. I was so busy with Creed that I don't think I ever really dealt with that emotionally. She [his ex-wife] elected not to be involved in my son's life, leaving me as a single father, and I was really worried about my little boy [Jagger, who turns 6 in October]. And there were other things that came along in the trappings of fame, things that hurt some of my relationships. So when I finally had time to reflect on everything, I was broken down to the point where I had no other way but to look up. I couldn't handle it all. I was asking a lot of questions—of myself, of God—looking for answers.

My dad always said I was hard-headed, that it would take something like that to wake me up spiritually, and I guess it did. My heart had gotten so beat up that I didn't have anything left to give. I was emotionally and spiritually dried up, so I was just searching for God. I reached out to my pastor and my father for some guidance. I was really soul searching and, I guess, on my path to coming home spiritually. And once that process began—and I'm still going through that process, and probably will for the rest of my life—that's when things started changing in my life. I started making some proper decisions, getting things in order. It's kind of like cleaning up your house. I was looking for direction for what God wanted me to do—and that's when I got a call about The Passion.

Prior to this recent renewal, how would you have described your faith?

Stapp: I'd have called myself a struggling Christian who was trying to find holes in everything he had been raised to believe. I was a doubting Thomas. I was raised in a climate where I believed in God because I was afraid of going to hell—and I didn't think that was the right way to fall in love with somebody. I always believed in God and Christ, but I was in rebellion—trying to make my relationship with God fit into my life instead of making my life fit in with him. I was stubborn.

It just took all of that to come to a screeching halt, to get to the point of having nothing, for me to finally realize, Hey, what are you fighting with this for? Until then, I hadn't claimed my faith as my own; I had just grown up with it. But I finally got to that point after years and years of running from God. Christ stepped in when I asked him.

When you first saw The Passion of the Christ, how did it affect you?

Stapp: At first, I was saddened and disheartened. I couldn't believe this is what Christ had to go through. I knew the story, but I was seeing it through different eyes. It was not just a Bible story that I had heard since I was four years old. It made sense to my life as a man, and as a father and as a friend and as a son. I was shocked that someone loved me so much that they would do this for me. I also got angry at various times during the film.

Angry at what?

Stapp: At how Christ was being treated. But then that would turn into a humility about understanding the sacrifice. I had a whole gamut of emotions—love, peace, anger, humility, sadness. I left the film exhausted; I was drained. But also, I was happy, because it helped me get a visual picture of what I finally understood.

Did you meet Mel Gibson?

Stapp: Yes. He was excited that I was interested in the songs project. He said, "I don't know much about music, but my kids love your band." I had a little demo of "Relearn Love" and I played it for him, and he said, "Listen, man, I'll leave that stuff up to you." He was like, "This is your experience, and I want you to express it however you want."

So you were writing "Relearn Love" even before you saw The Passion.

Stapp: Yes, and The Passion came along and gave me focus. It was kind of God's final confirmation that I was moving in the right direction.

Can you give me a specific example of how that "relearned love" is manifesting itself in your life?

Stapp: It's simple for me: It's giving without expecting anything in return. Prior to this, the way that I loved people around me, I always expected something—even if that was just expecting them to treat me like I treated them. But now I understand that real love is just giving without expecting anything. That's what love is to me, and that's what I feel that Christ showed us.

On Creed's website, you had answered an FAQ in part by writing, "Who are we to say that being a Christian is the only way to heaven?"

Stapp: Well, I can honestly tell you, I didn't write that.

But your name was on it.

Stapp: [Turns to tell his manager sitting nearby to call his record label and "tell them there's something on the Creed website that I didn't write … again." Then he addresses Christian Music Today again.] I didn't write that. I would never answer a question that way. That sounds like something the owner of my record company [Wind-Up Records] would say.

[Stapp, clearly perturbed at this revelation, says something else to his manager, then addresses us again.] I would never say that, dude, because that's not what I believe. We'll be sure to make a note of that. That stuff happens all the time, because my label, you know, they're about making money. They don't want to disenfranchise people. Creed wasn't a Christian band, but I would never insinuate or say anything that would make that kind of a statement. I'm glad you told me about that.

So, where do you stand in regards to that statement?

Stapp: Oh, I'm a Christian. I was a Christian in Creed, but nobody ever asked me.

You've been really open in this interview. Is that because I'm with the Christian media? Or would you answer these questions similarly for the mainstream media?

Stapp: The nature of my answers are a lot different now that I'm no longer with Creed. I'm a solo artist now, and I don't have a band to hide behind. So when someone asks me if I'm a Christian, I have to say yes, because I am. But do you know I was never asked in 10 years if I was a Christian personally? We were only asked if Creed was a Christian band.

Well, you never got interviewed by us!

Stapp (laughs): But I'm glad nobody asked, because my life wasn't right with God. The Christian community latched onto a lot of my music, because there were a lot of things about my struggle they related to. But I didn't really want to come out and be identified as a Christian, because I didn't want to be a hypocrite, because my life wasn't right. I didn't want to make any kind of public profession until I felt like my heart was right.

I've since learned that my life's never gonna be right, and I'm always going to be scrutinized and looked at under a microscope. And it took me, since I was 17 and left home, running from God, to now, as a 30-year-old man, when I honestly feel like I've come full circle and my heart's finally in the right place. I'm still going to make mistakes, but I don't have any problems with publicly professing my faith now. It just took me a long time to get to the right place in my relationship with Christ.

It's just crazy how things have come full circle for me as a solo artist. I kind of look at everything that happened with Creed as a preparation—me going through things to get my life ready for God's plan. It's been a journey and a learning experience.

So, are you now a "Christian artist," or an artist who happens to be a Christian?

Stapp: I'm an artist who's a Christian, because I don't write music to be evangelical. Now, if that happens, it happens. My dad's a dentist, and he's a Christian. Now, does he put in Christian fillings? No, that's just part of his three-dimensional life. Now, there are people that are Christian artists, because they have a purpose to be evangelical for Christ. I don't feel I've been called to that yet. Now, that could change. There's no telling what kind of call God will put on my life.

Kanye West Poses As Jesus on Rolling Stone Cover Religion or Rebellion?

Rolling Stone - February, 2006 issue - featuring Kanye West
Courtesy of Rolling Stone
Sponsored Links

When controversial rapper Kanye West posed for the cover of Rolling Stone magazine as Jesus, many people were shocked and dismayed, but few were surprised. West is, after all, no stranger to controversy.

Let's take a brief look back at some of the highlights of the Kanye West story and see if this is about raising awareness of issues or raising awareness of Kanye himself ... 

"Jesus Walks" - at first glance, it looked like the man was trying to take his faith to the streets. The story behind the song was perfect. "They" said you can rap about sex, drugs and violence but you can't rap about Jesus and get radio airplay - so he set out to prove them wrong. However, once he won a Grammy for the song, it seems like Jesus got the boot. In his acceptance speech for winning he said, "I plan to celebrate and scream and pop Champagne every chance I get because I'M AT THE GRAMMYS, BABY!" 

2004 American Music Awards - When he didn't win the Breakthrough New Artist of the year award, he pitched a well-publicized temper-tantrum, saying, "I feel I was definitely robbed. I was the best new artist this year. I don't know if I'll be back at this award show next year." He then tore into Wilson's music backstage, labelling it "bulls**t". Apparently it was too much to bear for a man who feels as if he's "carrying the whole of hip-hop itself, the state of music too," to not get recognized as the Saviour of the genre' that he sees himself as. 

The AIDS virus - On July 2, 2005, West appeared on the Philadelphia end of Live 8, using the global platform to comment on "man-made diseases placed in African communities," endorsing the idea that AIDS was created by the U.S. government to exterminate Africans. The funny thing here is that regardless of where I looked, I didn't find anywhere that even mentions that Kanye West has donated a penny of his money or a moment of his time to help fight the AIDS epidemic. 

Political Insensitivity - While at Live 8, West also accused American politicians of insensitivity, claiming they "...ride home in their Benzes and Bentleys while poor Africans starve." Apparently he feels more like an American politician than anything else because he isn't exactly riding in a Pinto or taking the bus. Then there is the reproduction of the Sistine Chapel ceiling that he reportedly has in his dining room. I'm betting that the money he spent on that could have fed more than a handful of families. 

Racism and President Bush - No one on the planet will ever forget West's response to Hurricane Katrina. Did he ...

Donate $25,000 and host a radio show asking for others to donate like Fat Joe? 
Donate $50,000 and host a different radio show to raise money for survivors like T.I.? 
Form his own charity to sponsor events to raise money as well as donating his own like Master P? 
Donate a half a million dollars to relief efforts like Shawn "Jay-Z" Carter and Sean "Diddy" Combs? 

No - he simply announced that "George W. Bush doesn't like black people" on the NBC Concert for Hurricane Katrina. 

After a career more centered on controversy than talent, posing as Jesus on the cover of Rolling Stone was just more of the same. 

Some fans have come to his defense, claiming that he was trying to re-emphasize his religion. That might have been believable had the article itself gone into how great having Jesus as his Saviour has been, instead of how great Kanye West thinks that Kanye West is. If this was about faith, you would think that he would have mentioned it.

Other fans have come to his defense, claiming that this is simply a racial issue and if it were someone like Brad Pitt as Jesus, no one would have a problem with it. It wouldn't matter if the person on the cover were pink, purple or polka-dotted. Posing as the Saviour of mankind to sell magazines is wrong no matter what the color of your skin is.

When I saw the cover, I was outraged. My first thoughts were, "How dare he!" and "Who does he think he is?" Jesus is more to me than just the central figure of Christianity. He's my personal Saviour. The one who died for my sins. The magazine cover mocked that and was a slap in the face to me as a Christian. 

I immediately started contacting Christian and Gospel artists, Pastors and others in Christian leadership. Much to my dismay, while several people out of the 50+ that I contacted were willing to comment "off the record," calling the magazine cover everything from "heresy" to "offensive" to "blasphemy," only five people were willing to comment on the record. This was as hurtful to me as the magazine cover itself. Upon examining my reaction, I found myself in a situation of not "practicing what I was preaching." I had taken the line between shepherd and flock and turned it into "those with opinions who matter" and "those who don't." The reality is that we all matter. Just because I don't lead a 10,000+ member church doesn't mean that my voice is any less important than someone who does.

We, as Christians, are quick to complain amongst ourselves that making fun of our religion is a popular past-time. Yet we sit quietly by while people do it - keeping our mouths shut so we don't sound "too Christian" or fanatical. While I don't condone violence or riots at all, I think it's well past high-time that we start to speak up. God gave us voices - yet we won't use them. We are much like the watchmen in Isaiah 56:10-11 - "His watchmen are blind: they are all ignorant, they are all dumb dogs, they cannot bark; sleeping, lying down, loving to slumber. Yea, they are greedy dogs which can never have enough, and they are shepherds that cannot understand: they all look to their own way, every one for his gain, from his quarter."

The five artists and industry professionals that spoke out all did so knowing that they could draw fire for their comments. They all realize that standing on your own convictions can make you unpopular to some, yet they're all willing to be unpopular in order to be true to themselves. I respect that immensely. 

Micah Stampley
Micah Stampley, winner of the 2004 Stellar Award Talent Search and 2006 Stellar Award nominee for New Artist of the Year and Male Vocalist of the Year said ... 

Like many of those whom you have contacted concerning this matter, I am totally thrown off at his attempt to portray himself as my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. I am also outraged by the failure and refusal of those Christians of influence to take a stand on a matter that is offensive to our faith. In my opinion, this young man feels that he is superior to his peers and surroundings and to depict himself as Jesus Christ is proof of that. Kanye has a level of pride that is unique, it's frightening! It reminds me of when Lucifer tried to exalt himself above the throne of God as we read about in the scripture. As a result God cast him down along with all the angels that agreed and followed him. After he (Satan) was kicked out of heaven, the bible described him as the fallen star. Here is what I mean by this reference; Kanye West may be a shining star right now but when you try to exalt yourself as Jesus, you open up to being the next falling star and all those that follow and support are in position to be cast down as well. Let this be a lesson learned just because someone uses the name of Jesus Christ it does not mean they stand for what His name represents.

Heidi Stampley
Heidi Stampley, wife and manager of Micah Stampley said ... 

As a Christian involved and associated with the music industry I am appalled. It is amazing to see how the great success and ministry that came out of the "Passion of the Christ" has been disgraced in an attempt to draw more attention to this magazine and the artist (Kanye) that was used. Personally Kanye never offered a real symbolism of what Christianity is about. His song "Jesus Walks," in my opinion, was not at all a song that brought glory to the name of Jesus, instead it took the name, character and nature of Jesus in vain and was offensive to those that discerned a greater agenda. I guess now we all see it never really was about Jesus and his (Kanye) great need for him but it was to make a statement. If he really had a sincere conviction or reverence for Jesus, he would have never agreed to such a outrageous depiction of Him. This song offered no real life changing value. It received more attention by Christians simply because the name of Jesus was used. Saying the name of Jesus should have more weight and be less surface to the true believers; those whose personal relationship is that of a life that does bring glory and praise to his name. Kanye West, although he has capitalized on the name of Jesus without the power or conviction associated with His name; will never know the real power and the weight of what he is doing, until a Christian is real with Him and shares the truth of Jesus in a way that matters. At this rate, without some direction and divine intervention his grandiose behavior will only increase and God only knows what he will do next. It's really not about Kanye. When are the real believers and soldiers that say they are in the army of the Lord, going to stand up for the Jesus that they profess!?! This is a War Cry!

Brian Jones - Road to Revelation
Brian Jones, lead guitarist and co-founder of Road to Revelation (as well as my husband and partner in ministry) said ... 

I have to say as a Christian and as someone who is serving in music ministry that I am greatly offended by the cover of Rolling Stones latest issue with Kanye West portraying himself as Christ. I think this was a tasteless play to gain more media coverage for him and Rolling Stone and after reading the article itself I found no mention of Jesus anywhere in there except as a mention of the awards he won for "Jesus Walks." Of course, there were numerous mentions of how he thinks he should win every award out there. I find myself running a gambit of emotions here.... anger, disappointment and pity. I'm angry that this young man would even begin to set himself up as Christ because, based on his article and his past media outbursts, I doubt he has ever put anyone else before himself. He has never carried the weight and burden of any of our (mankind) sins. He most certainly has not given his life for all of us as Jesus did on the cross. I think this a mockery of my Lord and Saviour and what He did for all of us so that we could come to find Grace, Forgiveness, and Redemption. I also find this offensive because it seems to be just another example of someone using Christianity as a tool for headlines and personal gain, which seems to be happening more and more frequently.

It angers me that as this story has unfolded, many of the very people that God has guided to a platform and placed in positions of leadership (both as artists and clergy) have chosen to remain silent rather than speaking out. I find their silence offensive because our leaders have a responsibility to speak out on the issues that we are facing. That's part of what they're called to do. It appears as though some of our leaders are more concerned with not rocking the boat and keeping their place in the food chain than with keeping it real and speaking the truth - even if that truth isn't politically correct. 

My God isn't weak and He wasn't silent during the Old Testament. My Saviour isn't weak and He wasn't silent during his ministry. I don't believe that we, who call ourselves Christians, are supposed to be weak or silent either. Our leaders need to step up and lead - giving a voice to the people that they're leading. 

I'm disappointed by the fact that Kanye West, who has won awards for his music, seems content to let the controversy he creates define him rather than letting his music speak for itself. As an artist myself, I want to be recognized for how I use my God-given talent - not how much controversy I can stir up.

As I write this, I feel more pity for Kanye West than anything else. I look at him and see a young man who doesn't believe in his own talent enough to just let it take him where it will. I see a man who could do so much positive and so much good in our world getting too caught up in his own drama and delusions to do more than make headlines. I see a magazine that will stoop to any level of "dirty pool" for profit. I see Christians looking for someone to stand up for them and I see leaders who are afraid to really lead.

David Paul Pelsue - Kids in the Way
David Paul Pelsue, lead singer and co-founder of Kids in the Way said ... 

Do you ever wonder why the world finds it so easy to dismiss Christianity as a joke? I believe it's because we constantly set ourselves up by reacting in such ways. To address the issue, I believe the Kanye cover is done in poor taste. Simply, if this offends you, don't support the magazine. Don’t support Kanye. I think dragging the parties involved into the street and beating them with fingers of judgment and horror is embarrassing. Is that the Christian thing to do? That’s not our job. I believe God is quite capable of handling someone's spirit. I don't know Kanye's heart personally. I don't know what exactly He believes. I do know that he has some spiritual thoughts and ideas simply from his music and public statements. Maybe someday, in a quiet place, God will convict his heart and Kanye will realize this might not have been the smartest choice. Maybe not. But that's up to God. I believe in accountability and keeping people in check with their actions, but to throw a complete stranger that you don't even know inside and out on the chopping block is unnecessary. We live in a real world where people don't respect our beliefs and aren't considerate of them. It’s time to stop acting so shocked and appalled. Honestly, Rolling Stone probably banked on this kind of response to occur. They knew there was no way the Christians would allow their bubble to be popped. If we didn't call out the army of the Lord every time another Harry Potter book was written, maybe the world wouldn't take jest in pushing our buttons. I’m tired of lynch mob mentality in the "Christian" world. What happened to turn the other cheek? What happened to not judging your brother? And remember the one thing Jesus died in the name of...love? In no way am I saying we need to lie down and let people walk on us and our beliefs, but there are certain things you just take care of amongst yourself. Don’t buy the magazine. Don’t agree with Kanye and Rolling Stone. End of story. Again, if this offends God, let's not insult Him by thinking He can't take care of the judgment that's needed.

Emily Cobb
Emily Cobb of Proper Management said ... 

My comments represent only myself and not Proper Management or any of its artists. While I do find this cover 100% offensive and wish it had not been created, I feel like this may become another “Target - Happy Holidays” sort of issue for Christians. In my opinion, Jesus has already conquered the world and He has conquered even blasphemous images such as this. If all that non-Christians out there see us Christians doing is complaining about other peoples choices, then why in the world would anyone else want to follow Jesus with us?

In this moment, I am fired up about many in this world not having food and many dying by the minute from AIDS. And mostly I am fired up about wanting God more than anything else in life and trying to stay in His Word and in prayer with Him daily. I have a choice today, I can either spend time being upset about this worldly cover and try to figure out a way to change peoples minds about it, or I can love people like Jesus right where I am and lift up a prayer for all who may see this image or any other terrible images and ask God for protection of their hearts and minds. I choose the latter.

Silly Questions Daw

MITCH: WE ARE ALL CHILDREN OF GOD..PERO BAKIT LAGING NAKAEMPHASIZE SA BIBLE UNG “HIS ONLY SON” PAG NABABANGGIT SI JESUS SA IBANG PAGES SA BIBLE?

FRANZ:I WANT YOU TO READ THIS VERSE, “BUT AS MANY AS RECEIVED HIM, TO THEM GAVE HE POWER TO BECOME THE SONS OF GOD, EVEN TO THEM THAT BELIEVE ON HIS NAME” (JOHN 1:12). WE ARE ALL CREATION OF GOD BUT WE WILL JUST BE CONSIDERED AS A CHILDREN OF GOD IF WE RECEIVE JESUS AS OUR LORD AND SAVIOUR. NAKAEMPHASIZE SA BIBLE ANG “HIS ONLY SON” KASI SI JESUS LANG TALAGA ANG TRUE SON. WE ARE ALL ADOPTED. WE ARE CREATED PERO SI JESUS IS HINDIDAHIL HE IS FROM GOD. PINANGANAK SIYA NI GOD.
LET’S DEFINE THE WORD SON OF GOD SA BIBLE. THE PLURAL, "SONS OF GOD," IS USED (GEN_6:2, GEN_6:4) TO DENOTE THE PIOUS DESCENDANTS OF SETH. IN JOB_1:6; JOB_38:7 THIS NAME IS APPLIED TO THE ANGELS. HOSEA USES THE PHRASE (HOS_1:10) TO DESIGNATE THE GRACIOUS RELATION IN WHICH MEN STAND TO GOD. IN THE NEW TESTAMENT THIS PHRASE FREQUENTLY DENOTES THE RELATION INTO WHICH WE ARE BROUGHT TO GOD BY ADOPTION (ROM_8:14, ROM_8:19; 2CO_6:18; GAL_4:5, GAL_4:6; PHI_2:15; 1JO_3:1, 1JO_3:2). IT OCCURS THIRTY-SEVEN TIMES IN THE NEW TESTAMENT AS THE DISTINCTIVE TITLE OF OUR SAVIOUR. HE DOES NOT BEAR THIS TITLE IN CONSEQUENCE OF HIS MIRACULOUS BIRTH, NOR OF HIS INCARNATION, HIS RESURRECTION, AND EXALTATION TO THE FATHER'S RIGHT HAND. THIS IS A TITLE OF NATURE AND NOT OF OFFICE. THE SONSHIP OF CHRIST DENOTES HIS EQUALITY WITH THE FATHER. TO CALL CHRIST THE SON OF GOD IS TO ASSERT HIS TRUE AND PROPER DIVINITY. THE SECOND PERSON OF THE TRINITY, BECAUSE OF HIS ETERNAL RELATION TO THE FIRST PERSON, IS THE SON OF GOD. HE IS THE SON OF GOD AS TO HIS DIVINE NATURE, WHILE AS TO HIS HUMAN NATURE HE IS THE SON OF DAVID (ROM_1:3, ROM_1:4. COMPARE GAL_4:4; JOH_1:1-14; JOH_5:18-25; JOH_10:30-38, WHICH PROVE THAT CHRIST WAS THE SON OF GOD BEFORE HIS INCARNATION, AND THAT HIS CLAIM TO THIS TITLE IS A CLAIM OF EQUALITY WITH GOD). WHEN USED WITH REFERENCE TO CREATURES, WHETHER MEN OR ANGELS, THIS WORD IS ALWAYS IN THE PLURAL. IN THE SINGULAR IT IS ALWAYS USED OF THE SECOND PERSON OF THE TRINITY, WITH THE SINGLE EXCEPTION OF LUK_3:38, WHERE IT IS USED OF ADAM.

MITCH: WHAT’S THE DIFFERNCE BETWEEN GOD’S WILL AND GOD’S PLAN?

FRANZ: ALAM MO, GOD’S WILL AND PLAN IS THE SAME, BAKIT? LET’S DEFINE FIRST THE WORD “WILL” (A FIXED AND PERSISTENT INTENT OR PURPOSE) AND THE WORD “PLAN” (HAVE THE WILL AND INTENTION TO CARRY OUT SOME ACTION). SO MEANING TO SAY, GOD’S WILL AND PLAN IS THE SAME. THE ONLY DIFFERENCE IS THAT THE WILL IS UNG “KAGUSTUHAN” NI GOD AND THE PLAN IS TO CARRY OUT THAT “KAGUSTUHAN” IN TO ACTION.

MITCH: ASKING FOR MORE OR BEING UNCONTENTED (GRAMMATICALLY WRONG BA? SORRY…^_^) IS A SIN… RIGHT? IS IT A SIN TO ASK MORE OF HIS LOVE?

FRANZ: FIRST, ALAMIN MUNA NATIN KUNG TAMA BA UNG UNCONTENTED NA WORD, ANG TAMA KASI DAPAT IS DISCONTENTED. WHAT IS DISCONTENTED? IT IS SHOWING OR EXPERIENCING DISSATISFACTION OR RESTLESS LONGING. ASKING FOR MORE OF HIS LOVE IS NOT A SIN. THINK ABOUT THE LOGIC, PAANO NAGING SIN ANG DESIRE MO TO EXPERIENCE MORE OF HIS LOVE? DIBA SI JESUS LANG ANG SATISFACTION NATIN. ONCE MAREALIZE MO ANG LOVE NI JESUS, SATISFIED KA NA. KASI HE HAS SHOWN HIS LOVE TO ALL OF US WHEN HE DIED ON THECROSS FOR OUR SINS. DISCONTENTMENT IN A WAY IS A SIN PERO NOT IN ALL CIRCUMSTANCES. FOR EXAMPLE, “ONLY BY PRIDE COMETH CONTENTION: BUT WITH THE WELL ADVISED IS WISDOM.” (PRO 13:10 AV). BASTA PAG UNG DESIRE ISMASAMANA, IT IS A SIN,PERO PAG UNG DESIRE MO IS MABUTI AY WALANG PROBLEM DOON. ISA PANG EVIDENCE NA IT NOT BAD TO ASK FOR MORE OF GOD’S LOVE, SABI NI DAVID SA PSALMS, “MY SOUL THIRSTETH FOR GOD, FOR THE LIVING GOD: WHEN SHALL I COME AND APPEAR BEFORE GOD? “(PSA 42:2 AV). HGETO SABI NI JESUS, “IN THE LAST DAY, THAT GREAT DAY OF THE FEAST, JESUS STOOD AND CRIED, SAYING, IF ANY MAN THIRST, LET HIM COME UNTO ME, AND DRINK.” (JOHN 7:37).

MITCH: NARARAMDAMAN NYA BA NAMAHAL NA MAHAL KO SIYA? AT GINAGAWA KOYUNG KAYA KO PARA MASURRENDER YUNG SARILI KO COMPLETELY TO HIM?

FRANZ: OF COURSE, GOD KNOWS THE DESIRE OF OUR HEARTS. LET’S STUDY THE HEART. ACCORDING TO THE BIBLE, THE HEART IS THE CENTER NOT ONLY OF SPIRITUAL ACTIVITY, BUT OF ALL THE OPERATIONS OF HUMAN LIFE. "HEART" AND "SOUL" ARE OFTEN USED INTERCHANGEABLY (DEU_6:5; DEU_26:16; COMPARE MAT_22:37; MAR_12:30, MAR_12:33), BUT THIS IS NOT GENERALLY THE CASE. THE HEART IS THE "HOME OF THE PERSONAL LIFE," AND HENCE A MAN IS DESIGNATED, ACCORDING TO HIS HEART, WISE (1KI_3:12, ETC.), PURE (PSA_24:4; MAT_5:8, ETC.), UPRIGHT AND RIGHTEOUS (GEN_20:5, GEN_20:6; PSA_11:2; PSA_78:72), PIOUS AND GOOD (LUK_8:15), ETC. IN THESE AND SUCH PASSAGES THE WORD "SOUL" COULD NOT BE SUBSTITUTED FOR "HEART." THE HEART IS ALSO THE SEAT OF THE CONSCIENCE (ROM_2:15). IT IS NATURALLY WICKED (GEN_8:21), AND HENCE IT CONTAMINATES THE WHOLE LIFE AND CHARACTER (MAT_12:34; MAT_15:18; COMPARE ECC_8:11; PSA_73:7). HENCE THE HEART MUST BE CHANGED, REGENERATED (EZE_36:26; EZE_11:19; PSA_51:10-14), BEFORE A MAN CAN WILLINGLY OBEY GOD. THE PROCESS OF SALVATION BEGINS IN THE HEART BY THE BELIEVING RECEPTION OF THE TESTIMONY OF GOD, WHILE THE REJECTION OF THAT TESTIMONY HARDENS THE HEART (PSA_95:8; PRO_28:14; 2CH_36:13). "HARDNESS OF HEART EVIDENCES ITSELF BY LIGHT VIEWS OF SIN; PARTIAL ACKNOWLEDGMENT AND CONFESSION OF IT; PRIDE AND CONCEIT; INGRATITUDE; UNCONCERN ABOUT THE WORD AND ORDINANCES OF GOD; INATTENTION TO DIVINE PROVIDENCES; STIFLING CONVICTIONS OF CONSCIENCE; SHUNNING REPROOF; PRESUMPTION, AND GENERAL IGNORANCE OF DIVINE THINGS."

MITCH: BAKIT MAY MGA TAONG (TULAD KO) ANG HINDI CONTENTED? WHY THER IS ME WHO ALWAYS ASK FOR A GREATER LOVE FROM GOD? I WANT MORE…

FRANZ: NOW I JUST WANT YOU TO REALIZE GOD’S LOVE FOR US. LOVE, THIS WORD SEEMS TO REQUIRE EXPLANATION ONLY IN THE CASE OF ITS USE BY OUR LORD IN HIS INTERVIEW WITH "SIMON, THE SON OF JONAS," AFTER HIS RESURRECTION (JOH_21:16, JOH_21:17). WHEN OUR LORD SAYS, "LOVEST THOU ME?" HE USES THE GREEK WORD AGAPAS ; AND WHEN SIMON ANSWERS, HE USES THE GREEK WORD PHILO , I.E., "I LOVE." THIS IS THE USAGE IN THE FIRST AND SECOND QUESTIONS PUT BY OUR LORD; BUT IN THE THIRD OUR LORD USES SIMON'S WORD. THE DISTINCTION BETWEEN THESE TWO GREEK WORDS IS THUS FITFULLY DESCRIBED BY TRENCH: "AGAPAN HAS MORE OF JUDGMENT AND DELIBERATE CHOICE; PHILEIN HAS MORE OF ATTACHMENT AND PECULIAR PERSONAL AFFECTION. THUS THE 'LOVEST THOU' (GR. AGAPAS ) ON THE LIPS OF THE LORD SEEMS TO PETER AT THIS MOMENT TOO COLD A WORD, AS THOUGH HIS LORD WERE KEEPING HIM AT A DISTANCE, OR AT LEAST NOT INVITING HIM TO DRAW NEAR, AS IN THE PASSIONATE YEARNING OF HIS HEART HE DESIRED NOW TO DO. THEREFORE HE PUTS BY THE WORD AND SUBSTITUTES HIS OWN STRONGER 'I LOVE' (GR. PHILO ) IN ITS ROOM. A SECOND TIME HE DOES THE SAME. AND NOW HE HAS CONQUERED; FOR WHEN THE LORD DEMANDS A THIRD TIME WHETHER HE LOVES HIM, HE DOES IT IN THE WORD WHICH ALONE WILL SATISFY PETER ('LOVEST THOU,' GR. PHILEIS ), WHICH ALONE CLAIMS FROM HIM THAT PERSONAL ATTACHMENT AND AFFECTION WITH WHICH INDEED HE KNOWS THAT HIS HEART IS FULL." IN 1CO_13:1-13 THE APOSTLE SETS FORTH THE EXCELLENCY OF LOVE, AS THE WORD "CHARITY" THERE IS RENDERED IN THE REVISED VERSION.
MAY MGA TAONG TULAD MO BECAUSE YUNG LOVE NA HINAHANAP MO W/C IS EVERLASTING AND UNCONDITIONAL AY KAY GOD MO LANG MAHAHANAP. ASK FOR MORE OF HIM AND YOU WILL SURELY RECEIVE MORE OF HIM.

IMPORTANTE ITO!

NAKATANGGAP KA NA BA NG GANITONG LEAFLET? HALIMBAWA, NAGLALAKAD KA TAPOS MAY MGA ILANG KABATAAN ANG NAGABOT SAYO NG GANITONG LEAFLET. ANUNG GINAWA MO NG MABIGYAN KA NITO? BINASA MO BA O ITINAPON MO NA LANG BIGLA? SABIHIN NA NATIN NA HINDI KA PA NAKAKATANGGAP NG GANITONG LEAFLET, ANO KAYA ANG GAGAWIN MO DITO? BIBIGYAN MO BA NG PANSIN ANG MENSAHENG NILALAMAN NITO?

HINDI ITO BASTA-BASTA LEAFLET LANG. MAHALAGA ANG LAMAN NITO. ISA KO SA MGA BAGETS NA NAMIMIGAY NITO. BAKIT KO ITO GINAGAWA? ISA LANG ANG DAHILAN, DAHIL GUSTO KONG MARANASAN NIYO RIN ANG PAGMAMAHAL SA ATIN NI GOD. KAILAN KO LANG TALAGA SIYA NAKILALA NG TUNAY AT SA MGA PANAHON NA IYON AY MALAKI ANG PINAGBAGO NG BUHAY KO. GUSTO NIYO MAINTINDIHAN ANG SINASABI KO? IKUKWENTO KO NA LANG SA INYO ANG LAMAN NG LEAFLET NA ITO.

ANG LAYUNIN NG DIYOS:

KAPAYAPAAN AT BUHAY NA WALANG HANGGAN

MAHAL KA NG DIYOS. NAIS DIN NG DIYOS NA MAGKAROON KA NG PERSONAL NA RELASYON SA KANYA AT MAGKAROON NG BUHAY NA WALANG HANGGAN.

ANG SABI NG BIBLIA:

“...MAYROON NA TAYONG MAPAYAPANG RELASYON SA DIYOS SA PAMAMAGITAN NG ATING PANGINOONG HESU-KRISTO.” (ROMA 5:1)

“SAPAGKAT GAYON NA LAMANG ANG PAG-IBIG NG DIYOS SA SANGKATAUHAN, KAYA’T IBINIGAY NIYA ANG KANYANG KAISA-ISANG ANAK, UPANG ANG SINUMANG SUMAMPALATAYA SA KANYA AY HINDI MAPAPAHAMAK, KUNDI MAGKAROON NG BUHAY NA WALANG HANGGAN.” (JUAN 3:16)

“…NGUNIT ANG LIBRENG KALOOB NG DIYOS AY BUHAY NA WALANG HANGGAN.” (ROMA 6:23)

KUNG ANG LAYUNIN NG DIYOS AY PAGKAKAROON NATIN NG MAPAYAPANG RELASYON SA KANYA AT BUHAY NA WALANG HANGGAN, BAKIT MARAMI ANG HINDI NAKAKATAMASA NITO?

ANG ATING SULIRANIN:

KASALANAN AT PAGKAKAWALAY SA DIYOS

NILALANG TAYO NG DIYOS NA MAYROON SARILING PAG-IISIP AT KAKAYAHANG PUMILI. NGUNIT SA KADALASAN, PINIPILI NATIN NA SUMUWAY SA DIYOS SA PAGSUNOD AYON SA PANSARILING NAISIN. ANG PAGSUWAY SA DIYOS AY TINATAWAG NA KASALANAN, AT ITO ANG DAHILAN NG PAGKAKAWLAY NATIN SA DIYOS.

ANG SABI SA BIBLIA:

“SAPAGKAT ANG LAHAT AY NAGKASALA, AT WALANG SINUMANG NAKAABOT SA KALUWALHATIAN NG DIYOS…SAPAGKAT KAMATAYAN ANG KABAYARAN NG KASALANAN…” (ROMA 3:23; ROMA 6:23A)

“KAYA, PIANLAYAS NIYA SA HALAMANAN NG EDEN…” (GENESIS 3:23A) (MATAPOS SUWAYIN NI ADAN AT EVA ANG UTOS NG DIYOS)

“ANG MASASAMA NINYONG GAWA ANG DAHILAN NG PAGKAKAWALAY NIYO SA DIYOS. NAGKASALA KAYO KAYA HINDI NIYO SIYA MAKITA, AT HINDI NIYA KAYO MARINIG.” (ISAIAS 59:2)

ANG ATING KASALANANANG NAKAPAGHIHIWALAY SA ATIN SA DIYOS!

ANG KASAGUTAN NG DIYOS:

KAMATAYAN NI HESU-KRISTO SA KRUS

SI HESU-KRISTO ANG TANGING KASAGUTAN SA ATING PAGKAKAWALAY SA DIYOS. SI HESUS AY IPINAKO AT NAMATAY SA KRUS NG KALBARYO, AT MULING NABUHAY UPANG PAGBAYARAN ANG KASALANAN NG BUONG SANLIBUTAN. ITO ANG DAKILANG PAG-IBIG NG DIYOS PARA SA ATIN.

AYON SA BIBILIA:

“…AT WALANG KAPATAWARAN NG KASALANAN KUNG HINDI SA PAMAMAGITAN NG PAG-AALAY NG DUGO.” (HEBREO 9:22)

“NGUNIT IPINADAMA NG DIYOS ANG KANYANG PAG-IBIG SA ATIN NANG MAMATAY SIKRISTO PARA SA ATIN NOONG TAYO’Y MAKASALANAN PA.” (ROMA 5:8)

“SUMAGOT SI HESUS,’AKO ANG DAAN, ANG KATOTOHANAN AT ANG BUHAY. WALANG MAKAKAPUNTA SA AMA KUNDI SA PAMAMAGITAN KO.” (JUAN 14:6)

“KAY HESU-KRISTO LAMANG MATATAGPUAN ANG KALIGTASAN, SAPAGKAT WALANG IBANG PANGALAN NG SINUMANG TAO SA BUONG MUNDO NA IBINIGAY NG DIYOS SAMGA TAO UPANG TAYO AY MALIGTAS.” (GAWA 4:12)

PINAGKALOOBAN TAYO NG DIYOS NG NATATANGING DAAN UPANG TAYO’S MAKAPAGBALIK-LOOB SA KANYA. SIYA’Y KUMAKATOK SA ATING MGA PUSO AT ATAYO’S KANYANG INAANYAYAHANG TANGGAPIN ANG ALAY NIYANG RELASYON SA ATIN.

“NAKATAYO AKO AT KUMAKATOK SA PINTUAN. KUNG DIRINGGIN NINUMAN ANG AKING TINIG AT BUBUKSAN ANG PINTO, PAPASOK AKO SA KANYANG TAHANAN AAT KAKAIN KAMING MAGKASALO.” (PAHAYAG 3:20)

ANG ATING TUGON:

TANGGAPING SI HESU-KRISTO BILANG DIYOS AT TAGAPAGLIGTAS

DAKILA ANG PAG-IBIG NG DIYOS ATMGA PLANO NIYA PARA AS ATIN. NGUNIT ANG TAO AY MAKASALANAN AT NAHIWALAY SA DIYOS. DAHIL DITO HINDI MALALAMAN NG TAO ANG DAKILANG PAG-IBIG AT PLANO NG DIYOS. ISANG NAPAKALUNGKOT NA KALAGAYAN. SI HESU-KRISTO ANG ATING KASAGUTAN SA ATING SULIRANIN KUNG SIYA’Y ATING TATANGGAPIN SA ATING BUHAY.

AYON SA BIBLIA:

“SIYA ANG TINUTUKOY NG MGA PROPETA NANG KANILANG IPHAYAG NA ANG BAWAT SUMAMPALATAYA SA KANYA AY TATANGGAP NG KAPATAWARAN SA KANILANG KASALANAN SA PAMAMAGITAN NG KANYANG PANGALAN.” (GAWA 10:43)

“SUBALIT ANG LAHAT NG TUMANGGAP AT SUMAMPALATAYA SA KANYA AY BINGYAN NIYA NG KARAPATANG MAGING ANAK NG DIYOS.” (JUAN 1:12)

“PAKATANDAAN NINYO: ANG NAKIKINIG SA AKING SALITA AT SUMASAMPALATAYA SA NAGSUGO SA AKIN AY MAY BUHAY NA WALANG HANGGAN. HINDI NA SIYA HAHATULAN, SA HALIP AY INILIPAT NA SIYA SA BUHAY MULA SA KAMATAYAN.” (JUAN 5:24)

NAIS MO BANG TANGGAPIN SI HESU-KRISTO SA IYONG BUHAY? APAT NA BAGAY LAMANG ANG DAPAT MONG GAWIN:

1. AMININ NA IKAW AY MAKASALANAN.

2. HUMINGI NG KAPATAWARAN SA MGA KASALANAN.

3. MANIWALA NA SI HESU-KRISTO AY NAMATAY SAKRUS ATMULING NABUHAY UPANG ILIGTAS KA SA IYONG MGA PAGKAKASALA.

4. SA PAMAMAGITAN NG PANALANGIN, PAPASUKIN SI HESUS SA PUSO AT TANGGAPIN SIYA BILANG DIYOS AT TAGAPAGLIGTAS.

BAGO KA MANALANGIN KAILANGAN GALING SA PUSO MO ANG DESISYON NA TANGGAPIN SI HESU-KRISTO SA BUHAY MO.

PANALANGIN:

PANGINOONG HESUS, ALAM KONG AKO’Y MAKASALANAN AT KAILANGAN KO ANG IYONG KAPATAWARAN. NANINIWALA AKO NA NAMATAY KA SA KRUS NG KALBARYO UPANG PAGBAYARAN ANG MGA KASALANANKO. NAIS KONG TALIKURAN ANG MASASAMA KONG GAWI AT NAIS KONG SUNDIN ANG NAIS MO SA AKING BUHAY. TINATANGGAP KITA BILANG AKING DIYOS AT TAGAPAGLIGTAS. MAGHARI KA SA AKING BUHAY NGAYON AT MAGPAKAILANMAN. AMEN!

NGAYONG TINANGGAP MO NA SI HESUS SA PUSO MO, GUSTO MO PA BA SIYANG MAS MAKILALA PA, INAANYAYAHAN KO KAYONG DUMALO TUWING LINGGO SA:

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