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March Edition of Pop Goes the Gospel Blog Carnival

Allen Frederick 4 Comments

'Pop Goes the Gospel'

Welcome to the March 2010 edition of Pop Goes the Gospel blog carnival. Each month we travel around the blogosphere to offer posts to encourage and challenge you as we take the Gospel into Pop Culture.

Although we only had a few submissions this month there is still plenty of food for the soul, and engaging content to peruse. Take time to read each article and be sure to comment that to let the author know you read their article here. Now on with the Carnival! Peanuts! Popcorn! Candy Apples!

Feature Article

This month we feature a brand new blog on Pop Goes the Gospel.  John a newbie to the blogosphere will attempt to relate his experiences as a father to his relationship with the Father. We welcome John and be sure to stop on over to his blog and give him a hardy welcome from all of us seasoned bloggers. It is wise to encourage each other in their walk with the Lord. There may come a time when you will need a word of encouragement so be sure to sow some seeds of encouragement so you too can reap a full harvest in due time.

John McCollam presents Fathers and Sons posted at Spirit Work. John’s first post to his brand new blog is an insightful look at fatherhood.

In Bible Study

NCSue presents What kind of “justice” is that? posted at IN HIM WE LIVE AND MOVE AND HAVE OUR BEING. NCSue offers a great post on true justice from God‘s perspective. Justice is not retribution but restoration. Now then the next time you hear the word justice see if it meets the biblical standard for just and right.

Trent Cotton presents The Christian Sword ? The Guard posted at Christian Men-Christian Warriors. Trent is back with yet another great post this one of a series on the sword of the spirit. Trent does a great job and his site is worth the time it takes to glean some goodness from the word of God.

In Media

Jasmine Smith presents 25 Essential Android Apps for Bible Study posted at Accredited Online Bible Colleges, saying, “If you haven’t made Android your major mobile device, perhaps the following Bible study apps for may convince you to go that route.” If you are an android user then this list of aps is for you.

Bible SEO presents Christian Guitar Lessons, Chords & Tabs posted at BibleSEO Blog, saying, “Top free resources for Christian Guitarists, offering free guitar lessons, chords, tabs.” If you play guitar then spend some time strumming through this list of instructional sites for the Christian guitar player.

John Laugherton presents 25 Ways to Use the Kindle for Bible Study posted at bible college, John takes bible study to the Kindle platform with an extensive list of the benefits of using the latest technology to make your bible study byte size.

In Culture

Joe Plemon presents The Money Quiz: Do You Serve God or Money? posted at Personal Finance By The Book, saying, “Jesus said that we cannot serve two masters. This quiz will help the reader see how he is doing.”

Megan presents Inspired By Fiction: Olympics and Scripture posted at Inspired By Fiction, Megan wins the Gold for her observations of the Winter Olympics. Athletes compete for a crown that one days fades but as Christians we are seeking a crown that never fades. Well done Megan and welcome to the carnival.

In Family

Darcy Bell presents The Overwhelming Concept of “Father” posted at HE said what?, saying, “Fatherhood is a concept than all Christian men should understand, but few often do.” Darcy offers a well written post regarding the responsibilities of being a Christian husband and father. If more dads would think this critically about their responsibilities to those under their care society would be better served. Well done Darcy and thanks for sharing your posts with us. This is a must read for dads and husbands everywhere.

That concludes this edition.

Submit your blog article to the next edition of pop goes the gospel using our carnival submission form.

Past posts and future hosts can be found on our blog carnival index page.

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November Issue of Pop Goes the Gospel Blog Carnival

Allen Frederick 3 Comments

Welcome to the November 6, 2009 edition of “Pop Goes the Gospel” blog carnival.

jesusinabox

'Pop Goes the Gospel'

I am excited to offer this month’s blog carnival because I received great submissions from first time submitters. In addition to the regulars who post here each month I believe you will find the new comers a welcomed addition. Their contributions I believe made this carnival the greatest yet. If you have not submitted an article to this blog carnival in the past please consider doing so for future editions.

There will be no December blog carnival because I will be taking some time off for some spiritual enrichment but we will be back in January Lord willing.

Therefore without further delay on with the carnival.

This month’s feature article really touched my heart, and represents the true character of this blog carnival. How everyday life is impacted by the Gospel of Jesus Christ.

Feature Article

Ed Jones presents It Worked Just Like Dad Said! posted at Lessons Learned From My 2 & 4 Year Old, Ed relates a very touching moment about his family and about the love of God. Being a parent gives you a different perspective on how to relate to your heavenly Father. This lesson learned from “Big E’ will make your heart smile when a child learns that “It worked just like dad said!” Doing things God’s way works the way God said they will as well.

In Culture

NCSue presents Ban the bells? posted at IN HIM WE LIVE AND MOVE AND HAVE OUR BEING. Here is an interesting post on censorship. Of course the only censoring that usually goes on is the silencing of the “lambs”.

Rodney Sutton presents Ever Get Tired Of Feeling Like A Lonely Little Island? posted at Happy Hog Speaks!. Rodney offers a thought piece when he prods the self-absorbed person seeking happiness. Does living for self bring about self-satisfaction? Well does it? Although Rodney did not offer an answer to this question he surely sparked thought.

In Media

Herbert Anderson presents Top 50 Blogs for Online Scripture Study posted at Accredited Online Bible Colleges. Another list of links for those seeking online bible study sites. There is something here for everyone take a look and see if there is something that interests you.

Suzane Smith presents 20 Incredible iPhone Apps for Christian Evangelists posted at Christian Universities, “Here are the top 20 incredible iPhone Apps for Christian evangelists. The apps can help with prayer, Bible study, productivity, and much more.” Thanks Suzabe.

halston presents Jesus Freaks Commentary 1 posted at Halston Williams, Halston relates the story of the Columbian shootings and the stand of faith offered by a 17 yr old student. Excerpted from the book “Jesus Freaks” Halston states that taking a stand for Jesus may cost your life in on earth but most assuredly will usher you into a much better life in heaven. Are you being a “Jesus Freak”?

In Education

Rick Schiano presents Let Go, Forget the Past, but not All of It posted at Ricks Victory Blog. Rick offers a refreshing post on the need to forgive and forget. He is not talking about forgiving others but actually forgiving yourself. Christianity allows for the mistakes we all are prone to make. Never forget that you are MUCH LOVED by God and forgiven through Jesus Christ His son. Amen Rick!

BWL presents Finding the will of God for your life posted at Christian Personal Finance, Steve offers a short tutorial on finding God’s will for your life. Although writing primarily about financial issues, this tutorial can be used to assess God’s purpose for your life no matter what it is you are seeking God for. Very well done Steve.

In Church Life

Bible SEO presents Beatitudes: Blessed are Pure in Heart – 6 of 8 Part Series posted at Bible Study Exposition Online.This continuation of the study of the Beatitudes picks up where we left off last month. This month our focus is on what it means to have a pure heart. How does one attain it, and what are the benefits of it and the consequences of not attaining to a pure heart status.

Albie presents An angry, vengeful God? (Updated 24/10) posted at iDevelopWorld.ALbie offers a well written wrestling with the conflict between an angry and loving God. Written not from a theologians viewpoint but from one seeking understanding. Personally I found Albie’s conclusions to be very insightful considering he states plainly that he is not a biblical scholar. Thus proving the point that ALL WHO SEEK SHALL FIND, and you do not have to be a bible scholar to understand the bible. You just need to be sincerely seeking to know HIM!

andriel presents Jesus: The Fulfillment of the Law posted at ReturningKing.com, This month’s BIBLE STUDY looks at Jesus as the fulfillment of Old Testament law. He did not come to abolish it but to fulfill it’s requirements. This site offers the serious bible student plenty of food for the soul. We all should spend some time there each month.

That concludes this edition. Submit your blog article to the next edition of
pop goes the gospel
using our
carnival submission form.
Past posts and future hosts can be found on our

blog carnival index page.

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, .

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Disciple Makers

Allen Frederick 4 Comments


Random Ramblings from the Resident Raptor
Insight from the Journey across the Sky

So wherever you go, make disciples of all nations: Baptize them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Teach them to do everything I have commanded you. “And remember that I am always with you until the end of time.” Matt 28:19-20 (GW)

God looks at the church as if they are already making disciples. And in fact we are. The only question that remains is what kind of disciples are we actually making? Are we making disciples of Christ or of the Anti-Christ? Are we making children of God or children of the devil? What lessons are we teaching those who look upon our lives? Are we showing forth a dedication to God or some other allegiance? What takes priority in our life? Is it God or the world? Leisure or some hobby? Travel or retirement? Are we loving the Lord our God with all our hearts, minds, souls, and strength? Do we really see it as our responsibility to be making disciples? The truth is you are whether you intend to or not.

Your decisions and actions will shape those with whom you come in contact with and your lifestyles will pattern an example to others of what you deem important. If your life is led, for the most part, without a God consciousness then your actions and activities will reflect that viewpoint. When was the last time you actually talked about your love affair with Jesus? When exactly was the last time you told someone else about the hope found in Christ? When was the last time you actually talked about the goodness of God? When was the last time that you spoke up for the saving grace of God? When was the last time you testified to the blessings of God? When was the last time you actually told someone about something God had done in your life? When was the last time you spoke of your faith?

Contrast that with the last time you talked about the weather, or what was on TV, or how things were going on the job, or a school activity, or some other community event. Do you find your conversation to be about everything but God and His kingdom? If so then you are making disciples of the devil and not of God. God expects the church to be disciple making organisms. And you can tell by the declining numbers the church is not doing a very good job of it. If we were fruit bearing trees there wouldn’t be enough fruit to make a pie. Why are we not producing fruit? Why is the tree barren? What has happened to the life of the church?

BLESSED (HAPPY, fortunate, prosperous , and enviable) is the man who walks and lives not in the counsel of the ungodly [following their advice, their plans and purposes], nor stands [submissive and inactive] in the path where sinners walk, nor sits down [to relax and rest] where the scornful [and the mockers] gather. 2 But his delight and desire are in the law of the Lord, and on His law (the precepts, the instructions, the teachings of God) he habitually meditates (ponders and studies) by day and by night. 3 And he shall be like a tree firmly planted [and tended] by the streams of water, ready to bring forth its fruit in its season; its leaf also shall not fade or wither; and everything he does shall prosper [and come to maturity]. 4 Not so the wicked [those disobedient and living without God are not so]. But they are like the chaff [worthless, dead, without substance] which the wind drives away. Psalms 1:1-4 (AMP)

Have we relegated God so far back on the back burner that we have actually grown cold? Have we become so much like our surroundings we are indistinguishable? Has our witness been so tarnished that our testimonies ring hollow? Has the fire of God’s love simply gone out and we are dead towards the things of God? Whatever the reason for our inability to witness and make disciples for Christ I wish to remind you disciple making is a requirement of the church, and by extension, of us. It is not a suggestion or an option but the intended purpose of the church. If the church is nothing more than a social gathering place, or a weekly retreat and escape from the cares of the world, then we have missed the grander design for the church. If we  fail to reach out to others and invite them into a right relationship with their loving heavenly Father, we are not walking in love toward our neighbors. If we fail to mention in our daily routines the love of God and the mercies of God we are allowing Satan to ruin lives and destroy souls.

Rise up church and be the salt and light God desires you to be. Rise up church and make a statement in the world. Rise up  church and make a difference in your communities. Otherwise you might as well shut the doors, board up the windows and put a for sale sign on the front lawn because you no longer are fulfilling the Lord’s calling, nor are you walking in the Lord’s purposes.

But those who are waiting for the Lord will have new strength; they will get wings like eagles: running, they will not be tired, and walking, they will have no weariness. Isaiah 40:31 (BBE)

Along for the journey
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God is With Us

Allen Frederick 10 Comments

image Wherever I go, He is there. So goes the children’s song we sang all week at Vacation Bible School. The words are simple, the melody is catchy, but the message it carries is timeless. The Lord promised His disciples that he would be with them always even until the end of the age.

The promise was not only for that time and that place but even until the end of the age. What comforting words to have heard from the Lord. Jesus was asking His disciples to go into all the world and teach others about the love of God through Christ Jesus. It was a hostile environment in those days to be labeled a “Christian”. I believe much of the same circumstances exist today with the persecution of Christians increasing around the world. Even in America, where freedom of religion is protected in the Constitution, Christians are finding it much more difficult to practice their religion freely and openly. It would appear the spirit of Anti-Christ is alive and well in the world.

Can we rest upon this promise given to the early church in a hostile world today? Do the words of Jesus still hold forth the same comfort as when they were first spoken? Do we as the church in the world today believe that God is with us? I fear that many live their life as if God is a distant relative they visit once a week. Perhaps you place a call to God daily but then go about the rest of your day forgetting that you spoke with Him.

Do you ever pause to acknowledge His presence in your day? Or do you perhaps feel your privacy is being invaded by this constant companion? I would hate to think about being alone at this time in history without the comforting knowledge of God’s abiding presence. I dare not think about what my life would be like without His constant help and encouragement. I tremble at the thought of facing life’s challenges alone and self-reliant. I, like Gideon, do not see myself as a brave soul, but more of a reclusive introvert. Some might just call me a closet coward.

rowboat_2929c I must confess that left to my own strengths, my weaknesses are far too evident. It is only when I rely upon God’s abilities do my insecurities not seem so great. I take comfort in knowing that I have not been the first, nor shall I be the last Gideon to have walked this earthen sod feeling insignificant when faced with overwhelming odds. (Judges 6:15) Nor shall I be the last Israelite who stood terrified in the shadow of Goliath. (1 Samuel 7:23-24) Nor dare I say that I will be the last disciple who fears drowning when confronted by an unrelenting flood of despair. (Mark 4:38)

Some people seem to have an inert ability to face any obstacle stoically. Not I!

However, I have lived long enough to know that God is faithful, and He will never leave me comfortless. He is always there and all I need do is acknowledge His abiding presence and allow him to have control of my life’s circumstances. He will never leave me nor forsake me. He shall be with me even when the world comes to an end. Those are comforting words. But do we believe them?

Do we actually believe that wherever we are God is? That means God tags along with us throughout our days just looking for an opportunity to be there for us. How often do we neglect to acknowledge that abiding presence. Are we like the disciples caught in the violent storm at sea with Jesus asleep in the boat? They exhaust themselves attempting to bail out the boat while JESUS continues to sleep in the stern. Why was Jesus asleep while the disciples were fighting for their lives? (Mark 4:38) Because Jesus knew God was with him and he knew that God was in control of his life. He knew he was one with the Father. Can we say the same? Are we able to find rest in the midst of the storm?

him

31 What then shall we say to [all] this? If God is for us, who [can be] against us? [Who can be our foe, if God is on our side?] Romans 8:31 (AMP)

What obstacle do you suppose is too big for God to handle? What in this created world can defeat God? That is right, NOTHING! If God is with you no matter where you are, could it be said then that you are the instrument through which God desires to impact the world around you? Do you suppose that the same God who was with Jesus also resides within you? And the same power that raised Jesus from the dead shall also quicken your mortal body. (Give life to, energize, make fully alive.)

LentFifthAepcl If the Spirit of the Lord is able to resurrect the dead do you suppose that same Spirit is able to work mightily through you to impact your circumstances? Do you suppose your life can be changed for the better because of God’s abiding presence? If God is with you and you acknowledge His presence.do you think  that you can feed 5000, move mountains, or speak in His name and bring salvation to a lost soul? What do you suppose we could accomplish in His name if we only believed he is actually alive and well and living within us?

Wherever I go, God is with me;
wherever I am, He is there.
I’m never alone;
He won’t forget me.
I’m never afraid; I know He’s near.
Wherever I go, God is with me;
wherever I am, He is there.
I’m never alone;
He won’t forget me.
God is near.

August Edition of Pop Goes the Gospel

Allen Frederick 4 Comments

Welcome to this month’s Edition of “Pop Goes the Gospel” another exciting expedition through cyberspace stopping along the way to gather some spiritual nourishment to strengthen our walk with the Lord. The fruit is ripe, the water is warm, the sun is shining so grab your sunblock, a beach  towel, and enjoy a cool summertime treat. Let the carnival begin!

'Pop Goes the Gospel'

'Pop Goes the Gospel'

Feature Article

Trent Cotton presents Using Chicken Little to Teach Kids about Mistakes posted at Christian Men-Christian Warriors. This month’s feature article is a lesson learned from the Children’s film Chicken Little. This is a must read for all who are dealing with “sins of our past” getting past our past reputations. Got a bad rap, check out this month’s feature article and learn along with Trent the lessons of Chicken Little. Thank you Trent for your submission.

In Culture

NCSue presents Making sense of paradox posted at IN HIM WE LIVE AND MOVE AND HAVE OUR BEING.NCSue asks us all to take another look at the paradoxes of Scripture. She offers up a new look at how Christianity seems senseless to those who are skilled and learned in the world. God’s ways surely are not our ways. A must read. Take time to answer all the questions there will be a quiz.

DeMarcus presents Growing Spiritually posted at Self Improvement Articles.DeMarcus offers us a quick but thorough look at growing up Spiritually. Thank you DeMarcus for your submission.

Rich Bordner presents My Story « The Pugnacious Irishman posted at The Pugnacious Irishman, College life can be ruthless for a young child of God or in the case of Rich a proving ground. The trying of our faith is a requirement if we wish to grow in that faith. A faith that is not tested is not faith at all. Thank you Rich for your candied story of life after high school, and your journey toward a deeper walk of faith.

Jeanine Mathis presents Question: Can You Boycott Heaven Because of Who God Allows to Be There? posted at Walk in Light, Jeanine tackles and interesting question found while surfing the net. I liked this article because it pointed out that there is only ONE JUDGE and it is not us. My conclusion to this post was well you have to read it and decide for yourself. Thank you Jeanine

In Church Life

Keith Tusing presents Leadership is Tough posted at CM Buzz.Keith offers a short but sound lesson on the difficulties of leadership. He says that if you are not being criticized it is possible you are not doing anything for the Kingdom, so get used to it. Good job Keith and thanks for your submission

Bible SEO presents Beatitudes: Blessed are Poor in Spirit – 8 Part Series posted at Bible Study Exposition Online, saying, “This bible study lesson is an eight part series of the Beatitudes mentioned in Matthew 5. This first part covers the meaning and context of beatitudes; it also deals with implication of being ‘poor in the spirit’, and the promise of Kingdom of Heaven.” Take some time out this week and do this study on the Beatitudes, it will do you a world of good.

andriel presents The Mystical Theory of Atonement posted at ReturningKing.com, For those who love an deep theological exegisis Andriel offers up plenty of ‘spiritual meat’ each and every issue of Pop Goes the Gospel. Once again andriel offers up such a post. This is a must read for anyone who seriously wishes to delve into the deeper things of God. Warning this is not for the casual reader this post will make you think.

Rick Schiano presents Top Ten Reasons Why You Should Be a Christian posted at Ricks Victory Blog.Rick offers up a TOP TEN List every Christian should strive to emulate. This is not a silly TOP TEN list as seen on late night TV but a serious list of the TOP TEN attributes of a TRUE CHRISTIAN. See how you stack up to the TOP TEN.

In Media

Alvina Lopez presents 50 Awesome Online Communities for Christians posted at Online Bible College Degrees – Online Bible Colleges.Another top 50 list from the folks you like to post list the students at Online Bible Colleges.

In Life

Sacha Calagopi presents Stuck in the Airport posted at God’s Word For You Today, Sacha another first time contributor to this carnival offers up a glimpse into what it is like to have to wait. This reminds me of an old saying ‘When my ship comes in I will probably be at the airport” giving voice to the frustration many feel about supposed missed opportunities. Savha points out that waiting on God is not an exercise in futility but rather a preparation for flight.

Jessica Nagel presents Gratitude posted at Sustainable Halo.This simple post from Jessica Nagel asks just one thing. What are you grateful for? Stop by and leave a reply and tell the world what it is you are grateful for.

In Family

Brooklyn White presents 100 Best Blogs for Christian Moms posted at Online Christian Colleges.Brooklyn White from Online Christian Colleges offers up yet another Post of Lists. This one is dedicated to the Christian mom and the 100 best sites. I am sure you will find something valuable in this list.

Bill presents Blessed in His Image posted at The Covenant Blessing, Bill a first time submitter to this blog carnival offers up an insightful post on being made in the image of Christ. He reminds us that we are all made in God’s image and if we really understood how fearfully and wonderfully we were made it would help us improve our self-image.

That concludes this edition. Submit your blog article to the next edition of pop goes the gospel using our carnival submission form. Past posts and future hosts can be found on our blog carnival index page.

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