The Arts

First off take a look at his name in pig Latin…pretty impressive.  Secondly he has a blog in which he posts about fascinating subjects such as “Why I am not Home schooled”.  Thirdly he mixes his own techno songs which are uniquely creative.  Fourth, this man has helped me to pursue blogging, recruited me for his wally ball team, and challenges me to live a life sold out for God.  Life is all about relationships and when those relationships deepen and turn into friendships then your world seems somewhat complete.  Christian friendships are even better!  Drew Maust has encouraged me to continue to think critically about the world around me from a Christian perspective and I thank him for that.  Many of you may never meet Drew but I would encourage you to read his blog because you will find many helpful insights and encouragements for daily living.  You can click on this link to visit Drew’s blog: “Kata Drew“.  My prayer is that more Christians will rise up and take a stand for Christ as Drew Maust has done.

Mark Driscoll never ceases to surprise me with his titles.  Talk about getting your attention, if this doesn’t catch your attention I don’t know what will.  Driscoll is the pastor of Mars Hill church in Seattle and has a passion to reach this generation with the gospel of Christ and combat false philosophies.  In his desire to assist and disciple the people of God Driscoll has put out a free e-book entitled “Porn-Again Christians: A Frank Discussion on Pornography and Masturbation for God’s Men”.  A few of the chapter headings are “A Theology of Pornographic Lust”, “The Fear of the Lord”, and “Pornography and the Slippery Slope of Ted Bundy”.  I hope every man, whether battling with these issues or not, will humbly pick up and give this book a read.  Mark is currently working on the last few chapters of the e-book which when finished will be available for PDF download.  Until then you can still read and print off the individual chapters (up to chapter 9).  The 10th chapter is due out October 27th entitled “Organized Crime and Corruption”.  You can find the free e-book by clicking on this link: “Porn Again Christian“.  Hope you give it a look!

The world is becoming more global and therefore territorial distinctions no longer play such a large role in defining certain cultures but rather multiple cultures are built now within many nations.  In America there is the hip hop culture which defines the life of many Americans especially those between the ages of 18-30.  The Christian faith is flexible and must be flexible to meet the cultures of our day with the gospel of Jesus Christ.  Christianity has to intellectually engage these cultures such as the hip hop culture.  Lecrae Moore, known as Lecrae in the industry, has emerged as a theologically sound and creative hip hop artist.  I have recently purchased his album “Rebel” from Amazon and have been greatly encouraged, challenged, and inspired by the words of Lecrae.  Lecrae has recently been interviewed by Pastor Mark Driscoll of Mars Hill in Seattle (click here for interview).  Lecrae gives his powerful testimony, speaks of his mission, and discusses Christian doctrine.  My favorite song is “Don’t Waste Your Life” based on John Piper’s book “Don’t Waste Your Life”.  I would encourage all Christians to give Lecrae a listen even if you don’t enjoy hip hop.  Lecrae’s message of Christ is blunt, truthful, and loving.