The History of Christian Television - Born Again for Every Producer
by Dr. Gene Steiner
In 1973 the Trinity Broadcasting Network, PTL Network and The Christian Broadcasting Network all were being formed. My career as a pioneer in Christian broadcasting was just beginning. I worked with CBN for 7 years and became a producer, director and production manager for CBN. I believed that the time had come for Christian programming to mean more than one hour a week on Sunday mornings.
Of course, satellite-delivery had not yet become a reality - until after the 1980 Olympics when the technology was made available to the general public. Until then programs were sent LIVE via TELCO or on videotape and bicycled around the nation.
1985 Robert Tilton began two Christian satellite networks - the Word of Faith Network with programming fed directly via C-Band satellite to over 1200 churches LIVE each week. Tilton also began the Success-N-Life Network. I was a TV producer and programmer for both of these networks based out of Dallas.
That same year (1985, as advertised then in the Charisma Magazine) there were more than 10 such satellite networks including one by R.W. Schambach.
However, 5 years earlier (now nearly 30 years ago) Robert Johnson, Sr. founded Video Satellite Systems (then Dominion, and now Sky Angel) - the world's premiere direct broadcast satellite service geared to the Christian market. What was so unique about his vision was that Sky Angel originally aired a wide variety of Christian television programs exclusively at NO COST to the programmer and WITHOUT PARTIALITY as to program placement.
As a programmer myself, I understood the significance of this. Because usually airtime goes to the highest bidder, with the largest ministries able to obtain the "best" airtimes - such as prime time in the evening and with little-known ministries effectively locked out and unable to place their programs on the satellite except in late-night slots.
Sky Angel was launched in 1984 as a DBS service that sent its signals via satellite directly to its SUBS (homes). Sky Angel struggled until 1996 when it was expanded to 6 TV channels and 3 radio channels - charging for the set-top box and a one-time fee for a lifetime membership. If I remember correctly, this one-time fee was between $200 and $300. This mostly paid for the access to the satellite transponders.
Robert Johnson, Sr. brought on board Pelle and Evie Karlsson to provide leadership and a face to the Network. Under their leadership the network grew and expanded but never to the degree that was originally envisioned. Our media agency placed a number of programs on Sky Angel, and our audiences benefited greatly from Sky Angel's generosity. I became a distributor and promoter for Sky Angel because I thought then (and I still think today) the idea of having a Christian-based programming line-up that showed no favoritism is a good concept. Unfortunately the network dropped a lot of its channels and programmers over the years and began carrying secular programming like FOX News Channel, Hallmark Channel, and educational channels, some of which users can also receive from other satellite services such as Direct TV and DISH. But what has happened to Pelle and Evie? We have not heard from them for quite awhile now.
In 2006, Sky Angel lost its ability to deliver signals via EchoStar III when its transponder finally failed, and in April 2008 Sky Angel US, LLC began offering its programming exclusively through the IPTV platform. Today Sky Angel offers more Christian-based television and radio programming than ever. Its Faith-based content includes Video-On-Demand and the ability to TIVO. But with the loss of the satellite, the free-Christian programming via satellite-era seemed to be over, and many subscribers have felt betrayed.
Of course, TBN now has a variety of Christian-based networks and nearly 5000 broadcast TV stations worldwide. Other full time Christian satellite networks include Tri-State Christian Television, Christian Television Network, and Golden Eagle Broadcasting Network (on the campus of Oral Roberts University in Tulsa). TBN Nejat TV broadcasts to the Muslim world. The God Channel covers Europe. Miracle Net transmitted from Hawaii to cover India and the Far East for over a decade.
Now, in 2010, enter the upstart GLORYSTAR ! Sky Angel may have been the first DBS system, but it is definitely not the only service out there. On its website, Glorystar touts itself as "North America’s largest FREE Christian and Family Friendly Network." It goes on to say "Simply purchase any Glorystar Satellite System (Minimum $199) to receive FREE Christian and Family Friendly Programming every day with No Monthly Fees and No subscriptions. All Channels on Glorystar Satellite Systems are paid for independently by each broadcaster and are yours to enjoy. Start viewing your favorite channels today by selecting a Glorystar Satellite equipment package that is right for you!"
So, free Christian television via satellite is not dead after all. Far from it. (However, the programmers are paying for it - while Sky Angel did not even charge its programmers.
Now back to IPTV... Pola Muzyka recently presented me with the news that now there is DoersTV.com. "DoersTV.com is not just free for viewers, but also for certain Christian ministries; such as churches and Christian Filmmakers. These organizations see DoersTV.com as a promise land alternative to the expensive broadcasting fees charged by other Christian TV Networks. 'God has given me the talent to produce films, but without a way to share it that content is useless,' Marty Jean-Louis, founder of My Christian Films, said recently. 'DoersTV.com has given me, and many other producers, a pathway to share the Gospel and our talent with the world.'"
I say, MORE POWER TO YOU! And I honor all who would step into the arena of IPTV for the purpose of spreading the Gospel. Many ministries have podcasts, sometimes called Godcasts, on their websites. We need more Christian programming, not less. Churches such as Victory.com with its 360 Degree Life, LifeChurch.TV, John Hagee's CornerstoneTV, and Joel Osteen's program from Lakewood Church seen on The Church Channel, and hundreds of others are out there. If you appreciate these ministries, support them.
If you have a vision to have your own network and need help, give us a call. Let us partner with you.
(Gene Steiner is the founder of Creative Media, LLC, a Tulsa-based Christian Advertising Agency, production company, and media ministry. Gene has decades of experience in Christian broadcasting. Ministries retain Creative Media as consultants to assist them in designing and integrating new media systems and media outreaches via broadcasting and the Internet. Email Gene at gene.steiner@gmail.com)
Fly Without Fear Johann Christoph Arnold
We all know that on Christmas Day a terrorist tried to blow up a Detroit-bound airliner. This tragedy was thwarted thanks to the bravery of his fellow passengers. Most of all, we need to thank God that 256 lives were saved.
But now, once again, there is fear and anxiety about air travel. The government is trying to calm the public. The president is doing his best to reassure people that flying will still be safe. Yet instead of seeing one another as human beings, we have made this debate increasingly political.
New rules for passengers have come into effect, which will make flying a lot more inconvenient. Our government is too quickly relying on technology that may calm the public, but that terrorists can just as quickly outsmart. Billions of dollars, and just as many hours, have been wasted. So the most recent escalation of security, particularly for flights headed to the US, is making people angry and fearful.
I have flown millions of miles and have visited nearly every continent. Flying used to be a joy and a privilege. People working in the travel industry did their part to make a trip as enjoyable as possible. Now it is different. People have become fearful and isolated. Everyone is suspicious of everyone else. And so the person sitting next to me is no longer a potential friend—an interesting human being with a story to tell—but a potential killer.
I am as worried as everyone else. In the New Year some of my children and grandchildren will be traveling abroad. Naturally, I am concerned for their safety.
There must be a better and a cheaper way. We can turn this around. But God has to become part of the equation to make flying safe and enjoyable again. We need to learn to entrust our lives into God’s hands each time we board a plane—in the same way our forefathers did when they boarded sailing ships for the New World, centuries ago. We cannot only rely on our intelligence and technology to save us.
This is where prayer comes in. I am sure many people already pray by themselves before they fly. But think of the power and the sense of community that a common prayer would bring each time a plane departs and heads for its destination.
Instead of hiring air marshals, the federal government should hire air chaplains. When the safety instructions are given before departure, the chaplain should lead the plane in prayer, asking for God’s protection during the flight. In the same way, a prayer of thanksgiving could be said by this chaplain upon arrival.
Just imagine all the dollars that could be saved if we could relax and do away with all the extra security. Flying could again be a joy—an opportunity to relate to and associate with other people.
[Johann Christoph Arnold is a pastor and author of ten books, including Be Not Afraid: Overcoming the Fear of Death, which are available as free e-books at www.plough.com.]
Announcing Clash Creative – a Media Development Company Producing Christian Material for Teens and Tweens Moundridge, KS –
A new media development company, Clash Creative, Inc. was officially launched on July 1, 2009. Clash Creative’s mission is to produce Christian art and story media for teens and tweens (ages 12 thru 18) to draw them to the Lord Jesus Christ. Initial offerings will include graphic novels/comics/manga, and stories for both print and digital media.
“We have a passion to see Christian teens have available to them entertaining media that doesn’t undermine their faith,” said Ken Raney, President of Clash Creative. “The Christian teen/tween is the most underserved demographic in media. We believe the Lord has led us to begin to fill that gap.” “Clash Creative is currently developing original intellectual properties but we will adapt existing properties, also.
The bottom line, we want to produce excellence in Christian media for this age group. We also are working on a new business model for distribution that, we believe, will blow this market wide open,” said Raney. The name Clash comes from Ephesians 6:12, "For we are not fighting against flesh-and-blood enemies, but against evil rulers and authorities of the unseen world, against mighty powers in this dark world, and against evil spirits in the heavenly places."
Benefits of Utilizing Mass Media in Global Evangelism
By Gene Steiner
The mass media (radio, satellite television, print publications, and the Internet) can place a given message within reach of more people in a short period of time than any other form of communication. When the sheer magnitude of the numbers involved prohibits personal contact or even mass meetings, mass media enables us to reach entire nations, continents, and the whole world) within a short time. With over two billion non-Christians in the world, mass media presents the logical alternative to present the Gospel message in such situations (read more).
The mass media can penetrate locations where missionaries or “foreigners” of any kind may not be welcome. Though economic and political factors may present logistical problems, the mass media generally will be able to penetrate as can no other medium, in order to reach areas and places where it would be impossible to travel in person. The mass media can leap physical, geographic, social, and even political barriers to convey the message of Christianity. We have experienced it in recent years using satellite television and now the Internet and email.
The mass media can disseminate the Christian message with great financial efficiency. When considering the cost-per-thousand reached, it is staggering to even consider the prohibitive financial cost of reaching all the “ethnos” or people groups of the world in person in a short period of time. If it were even possible politically, it has been estimated that it would take nearly 150 years to establish neighborhood churches that would touch every tribe. It would take multiplied millions of dollars and hundreds of thousands of trained evangelists to do the job “in person.”
Getting back to cost-per-thousand, if a certain televised crusade costs $ 100,000 to produce and broadcast via satellite, cable, and on local TV stations, and if 10,000,000 people hear the message and respond in the desired manner, then the cost-per-thousand would be only $ 10, a most efficient usage of funds.
Mass media permits the presentation of the message in a highly attractive format. The use of specialty prepared audiovisual aids to the message (graphics, text, and photographs, etc.) can be of inestimable value in proclaiming the Gospel. Mass media demands that the production utilize such highly attractive materials for maximum effectiveness.
Today it is possible to have multiple language tracks on DVDs and professional digital video formats – allowing for various nations to dial in the appropriate language for their downlink people groups. Combined with live translators, it is possible to transmit entire crusades in upwards of 20 languages at once. The Internet itself also lends itself to efficient language translation as text on web pages may be decoded in any of 25 or more languages instantaneously by the user.
The mass media makes it possible to use highly credible and effective spokesmen as an aid to proclaiming the message. Research indicates that a spokesman who is perceived as highly trustworthy will have greater effectiveness in communicating a message than an individual without these characteristics. The mass media permits such an individual to be brought before large numbers of people over an extensive area, to help overcome the apathy or resistance of some people to the message.
Not all missionaries or evangelists are equally capable communicators in all situations. Some are more effective with small groups or interpersonal contacts, while others are more effective in public speaking situations. Very capable, effective mass media spokesmen can be used to supplement the work of local missionaries by programs or publications carefully chosen for their value in that specific situation when presented to a particular people group.
Specific Advantages of the Print Media: Beyond the general advantages outlined above, print media possess certain specific qualities that make it useful in religious communication: Permanence. Many an oral communicator or religious broadcaster has wished he could somehow preserve his message so his listeners could ponder the meaning more deliberately, or review the message after its initial presentation. Of course, videotape an DVDs, and video CDs can accomplish this, but not everyone has the capability to record digital video media. The print media make such preservation possible and affordable. Studies indicate that many print publications may be read not only several times by a given individual, but usually are passed on to hundreds of others, so that the message has a multiplied impact.
Multiple exposure. A listener to an oral proclamation or a broadcast message may have only one, fleeting exposure to a certain thought or point. Print ed matter permits a re-examination of the point, or even continuing discussion of the point with others, since the printed message remains accessible. This is especially valuable with new or difficult teachings, which may require some time to be fully understood and absorbed.
Flexible rate of exposure. With a broadcast message or any oral presentation, the listener is at the mercy of the speaker, insofar as rate of exposure to the message is concerned. A rapid speaker, presenting new or difficult material, may easily outdistance his listeners' thought processes. The print media, however, permits the reader to pace himself. He may read as slowly and deliberately as needed, desired, or is able to comprehend. The advantages are obvious.
Time Shifting the Message. In a public assembly or where an oral presentation is made through the broadcast media, the listener must be physically present when the message is given, if he is to hear it. An uninformed or apathetic listener may not find it convenient or desirable to make his schedule conform to the speaker's schedule, and thus may miss the message. With the print media,(and now the Internet through archival methods and VOD) however, an individual may take the message with him and examine it later when he has adequate time and is in an unhurried frame of mind. He is not forced to react to a deeply significant message in the midst of other activities or when he may not be prepared to give it favorable or even courteous attention. Every missionary or evangelist should try to insure that the Gospel message will be given adequate consideration by his audience.
Highlighting / Skimming the Message. Not all portions of a given message will be equally relevant or interesting to an evangelist's listeners. However, during an oral proclamation, either in a public assembly or a radio-television program, the listener has no choice but to sit through those portions of a message which are either already highly familiar or even are less relevant to his needs until more significant portions of the, message come to his ears. With a printed publication, however, the reader may skim through certain portions until he comes to a paragraph or a section that speaks directly to his needs at that specific time. While such skimming of a message obviously is subject to abuse by uninformed or untaught readers, the practice has certain obvious inherent advantages. (DVDs using various tracks and Internet video on demand also have this feature). Employing Graphics. "Redundancy with variation" is a well-known technique of effective communication. That is, the producer permits the receiver of the message to have more than one exposure to the message, in more than one form. Illustrative material such as photographs, drawings or other graphics may clarify and enhance an otherwise difficult or uninteresting message. Printed publications seem especially appropriate for this type of mass communication. This has been seen in the wordless tract that has been test distributed in several African countries.
Weaknesses of Print Media
Printed publications have a number of disadvantages that should be considered by the religious communicator when he is planning his strategy.
Motion and animation are not at the present time provided through the print media. Even with illustrations and graphics, printed messages are relatively static, in comparison with film or television. Even with photographic illustration, a given event or activity is presented in "stop-action," form. Choosing the right stop-action photograph to typify a complex or extended activity may be difficult. Cultural or semantic differences among readers may produce misunderstanding or misperception. of the intended meaning. The inability to illustrate an entire event, in sequence, is a liability of print media that should be recognized. The print media demands that readers be at least functionally literate. In many emerging nations of the "third world," large numbers of people cannot yet read or write. In some specific locations, a tribe or sub-culture may not have a written language at all, thus posing a serious obstacle to the religious communicator Even the use of drawings, photographs, or other non-verbal messages presents problems with receivers who are not accustomed to the use of printed matter and the sequencing of drawings. The print media demands considerable time and space to adequately describe or explain a complex principle. Verbalization of certain Christian concepts such as love or righteousness or spirituality is difficult anytime, perhaps being better explained by a living example or by using an object lesson. Trying to communicate such abstract principles becomes doubly difficult when one must work only with printed words on the page. Apathetic listeners may not be willing to dedicate enough time or energy to reading a long dissertation on some difficult theme in order to understand the Gospel message.
Once a message is formulated, printed, and distributed to the readers, modifications or explanations of misunderstandings are difficult. Although the writer of a religious tract, book or pamphlet may spend considerable time making sure his message says just what he would desire, a misunderstanding of that message in some remote comer of the world where the print medium is the only contact, may never be corrected. The religious writer may have only one opportunity to correctly communicate his message. If he were personally present, he might easily answer a question, or correct an error, but when he must rely totally on the printed message, such interaction is not possible.
The print media does not permit the use of the warmth, tonal inflection, varying emphases of the human voice or thematic music. Familiar as we are with the Gospel, we may sometimes forget how important the proper use of emphasis, inflection, and vocal expression are to the correct presentation of the message, especially to one who has never heard the message before. In comparison with the vibrancy and warmth of the spoken word, the printed word may seem somewhat lifeless or uninteresting to a pagan. In trying to overcome this problem, missionaries or evangelists should avoid dull, technical discussions of theological concepts when using print media for proclamation of the word to non-Christians, but should attempt to write conversationally -- as personally and cordially as possible.
Specific Advantages of the Broadcast Media
The electronic media (radio, television, and film) also have a number of inherent strengths which make them useful to the missionary or other religious communicator.
The broadcast media can reach people who might not be accessible through other media. Many people might be disinterested or even antagonistic to a "religious tract," or book or Bible study lesson, but may still have their attention caught involuntarily by a message from the Christian communicator on radio or television, in the midst of a line-up of other programs. Although many might never purposely seek a religious program on radio or television, most will listen to an interesting message from a religious speaker, even while using these media primarily for entertainment or other purposes.
Furthermore, the broadcast media can reach people who are illiterate. The transistor radio, capable of being produced in great numbers, at relatively low cost, has been distributed in virtually every part of the world. Radio can speak to people in remote, uncivilized areas, where schools and literacy pose serious problems for the print media user.
The significance of radio in remote regions of the globe is its portability through transistor radios, its influence and ease of acceptance of a message spoken by the known dialect of the local people, its relative low cost-per-thousand compared with other mass media, and the fact that the radio is usually left on for hours on end – thus allowing for a much greater probability that the broadcasted message will be heard by a large number of people.
The broadcast media can motivate interested prospects for conversion. Radio and television programs typically create their own audiences, by offering content or formats that are especially appealing to those individuals with an existing interest in Christianity in a given target broadcast area.
The broadcast media can provide a warm, personal touch in the presentation of the message. The sound of the human voice, and, in television and film, the sight of the speaker himself, can bring a valuable added dimension to the message of the Gospel. Compassion, concern, kindness, joy, exuberance, and genuine interest in the listener can often be expressed most effectively when both the audio and visual channels of communication are used together.
Radio especially is an intimate medium, producing a unique relationship between the speaker and the listener. The experienced radio broadcaster knows that he is talking to very small groups of people, perhaps only one person. In the mind of this listener, the imagination is creating an image of the personality, appearance, and characteristics of the speaker, all based upon the quality of his voice. The listener, if the speaker is effective, has the feeling that the performer is speaking to him alone. Thus a deep sense of intimacy and loyalty to the program can be established that is more distinct and pronounced than that produced by any print medium of communication. Weaknesses of Broadcast Media:
As with each of the other mass media, broadcast media also have their own specific weaknesses, disadvantages and limitations, including the following:
Broadcast media may have a negative connotation in some parts of the world. In a number of despotic monarchies, for instance, radio and television may be totally censored or controlled by the national government, or may be used by the national government solely for propaganda purposes. Thus, these media may be perceived in a very unfavorable light by the inhabitants of these nations, making their use for evangelistic purposes questionable if not impossible. Of course, the converse is also true; i.e., the religious communicator should avoid any affiliation or identification with illicit broadcasting operations. In some cases, radio and TV programs by anyone other than nationals of the country may be forbidden by the authorities.
In many areas, the religious broadcaster may have great difficulty in obtaining an acceptable broadcast times. One may discover that access to prime time is either forbidden or prohibitively expensive, or that religious programs are permitted only on the weekends or very late at night.
The attention span for broadcast messages is very short. Changing the station of a radio or TV set is one of the easiest things in the world to do, and a listener may quite casually tune away from the message of salvation, or give it only partial attention. The broadcast media provides only a brief exposure to specific facts or points the listeners may need to remember. Although some might jot down an address, a name, or a scripture reference while listening to a radio or TV program, many are not able to do this. Thus, the broadcast evangelist must provide repetitive exposures to those parts of the message that he wishes his listeners to remember; e.g., address, name, email addresses, etc. Even then, many will miss the information or soon forget it.
Unique Limitations of Mass Communication
The mass communicator, especially the religious mass communicator, faces certain obstacles and limitations which are either peculiar to the mass communication situation or are found to a greater degree in the mass communication situation. The audience may perceive the source in mass communication as an institutionalized, impersonal messenger that lacks the ability to meet personal needs and address individual problems. The sheer size and heterogeneity of the audience in mass communication inhibits any attempt to deal with individual needs or problems experienced by only a small portion of the total receiving group. For example, the mass communicator should strive to speak or write to each group within his listening or reading audience in its own language, if possible. Yet many language groups and dialects are spoken only by a relatively small number of people in a small geographic area. Since mass media are especially adapted to large numbers and large geographic areas, their utility for a specially focused usage may be questionable, from an economic and efficiency viewpoint.
The absence of the feedback in mass communication means that the source must send messages to his intended hearers with no other guidelines than previous experience or personal opinion. To some extent, he is "flying blind" in trying to communicate. If no audience response is anticipated, it would be impossible to modify the message for greater effectiveness.
The average person gives only fleeting moments of attention to any mass media message. He listens to a television program with only half an ear and is generally is busy doing something else while listening to a broadcast, or is willing to give only a few moments to a given printed message, especially one from an unknown or distrusted source.
Pace is also a consideration. If too much information is presented too quickly, the audience is not given the opportunity to digest the material. Time considerations in the broadcast media, and space considerations in the print media make this problem especially relevant for the mass communicator. "Information overload" is often committed by religious communicators because of the pressure of the urgency of the message. When this occurs, a mental block to the whole of the message occurs in the intended listeners’ minds.
Ways Mass Media Are Being Utilized in Missions
Mass media are being used widely in a broad assortment of ways by those engaged in mission work today. The following list, although not exhaustive, will illustrate the major approaches:
Many mass media programs may be designed to instill awareness and impart introductory information about the church and the mission effort. Although the gospel itself is the hope of salvation, one cannot really separate the message from the messenger. Thus, effort can legitimately be expended in providing historical and descriptive information about a group of missionaries, especially those moving into new fields.
Of course, many foreign governments demand proper identification before allowing entry into their country. But, simply establishing legitimacy with the governmental authorities is not enough. The recipients of the message need to know who are you, and what group you represent. They will ask: "Is this new group different from the other 'Christian' missionaries we have heard?' "Is this some little splinter group that will not amount to anything, or does it represent a substantial, enduring effort that will continue?" "Who are the sponsors that provide your financial support?" "Why are you here in our country?" Such questions are entirely legitimate, and the missionary should not be offended by them. He should welcome the opportunity to fully identify himself, and legitimize his presence in the place.
Many mass media programs are designed to prepare the way for a major missionary effort. This has been described as the "softening-up process", or "seed-sowing". Just as John the Baptist was sent before the Lord to prepare the way for His coming, mass media programs may be very effective in providing initial exposure to the Gospel, to lay the foundation for an intensive evangelistic effort later. The objective with this technique is to accomplish preliminary acquaintance with the missionary and the message, so that the mission team will not be confronted with people who are unfamiliar or, perhaps, even hostile to the mission effort.
An extension or adaptation of this technique is to continue to use the mass media for this "seed-sowing" operation even after becoming established on the field, to open doors and stimulate inquiries from the people that may be followed up with personal contacts.
Many Christian groups are firmly committed to a theology of seed sowing, which might also be called a theology of search. It maintains that in Christian mission the essential thing is not the finding, but going everywhere and preaching the Gospel. However, mere search is not what God wants. He is a shepherd who not only searches for lost sheep, but finds them, heals them and cares for them.
Mass media are sometimes used to provide both basic and advanced study of the Bible, and aggressively seek conversions. Missionaries in certain areas have achieved some success in offering a complete array of gospel messages, including discussions of the "deeper things of God", leading the listener all the way to acceptance of Christ. Such a technique is generally used only in areas where mission efforts have been in existence for some time and is utilized with reported success. Such an approach in another area, however, might produce few results.
The assortment of the media used in missions work is broad and varied, including the following: ¸ International or continental satellite-fed broadcasting through TV and radio stations ¸ Shortwave global radio transmissions of the Gospel message in various languages. ¸ Broadcasting of Christian programs 24-7 globally targeting various ethnic groups and language groups. ¸ Local and regional broadcasts designed for one city or one region. ¸ Publishing and distributing Gospel tracts, books, pamphlets centered around one theme. ¸ Free global distribution of Bibles and portions of Bibles. ¸ Translations of the Scriptures into various languages and dialects. ¸ Distributions of Bible-teachings and the Bible-itself on DVDs, CDs, and audio/videocassettes ¸ Bible correspondence courses and the establishment of hundreds of international Bible colleges. ¸ Gospel magazines, carrying both exposition of scriptural teachings and news about the work of the church. ¸ Newsletters and personal correspondence, directed both to fellow missionaries and to prospective converts. ¸ Finally, Bible study guides, outlines, and workbooks.
The utilization of the mass media overall is seen as being a successful vehicle to spread the Gospel. Each Believer must seek the Lord’s perfect will in these areas: who shall send, when these should go, what shall we teach, where shall we go, and how shall we implement the media into our evangelistic and discipleship missions efforts? We must evaluate what is already being done and get behind those efforts without trying to reinvent the wheel (media missions). When we find a method, a channel, a concept, or a medium that “works,” we can get behind it ourselves and multiply its usefulness – increasing the efficiency of getting the Word to the people.
When the whole world has heard, the Bible says, then the end shall come. Even so, come Lord Jesus.
Copyright c 2004, 2005, 2008 Gene Steiner
After the Parades and Picnics
–Johann Christoph Arnold
for Memorial Day 2009
"Only the dead have seen the end of war." - Plato
Everybody loves a long weekend. But this year's Memorial Day ought to be a lot more meaningful to all of us. We need to see it as a chance to pray for lasting peace and for our President, that he may lead our country to a new vision. Otherwise, our future will be marked by continuous open-ended global warfare, and we will have many more deaths to commemorate with each passing Memorial Day.
Today we should not only remember the dead, but celebrate life. We need to think about what Memorial Day really means--what the life of every deceased soldier means to his or her family, and to us.
These men and women were people like you and me. They loved their country and they loved their families. They had hopes, dreams and ambitions. They lived--and were willing to die--for a cause in which they truly believed.
I believe all war is wrong--and most people do. Who isn't for peace? As the old saying goes, "All war is civil war, because all men are brothers." But I also know that many of those who die in warfare sacrifice themselves to save others. Would we have the same courage?
Families who have lost loved ones in combat should be comforted to know that even though they are no longer with us, their lives can still serve a greater purpose. No person dies in vain; every death carries a valuable lesson for the living. Children need to learn about the importance of human life, and every life story has something to teach them. This is true education.
We need to channel our energies into positive efforts that will bring people together. Let's become better role models for our children. To do this we must put aside all our fears, frustrations and anger. We must recognize that we have relied too much on our own knowledge and skills to solve our daily problems. We have forgotten God and lost our sense of community.
In this light, Memorial Day ought to be a time to visit our neighbors, local veterans, and nursing home residents. Too often, we don't even know who our neighbors are. Everyone needs someone to talk to. By sharing with others, we will find out that we have much in common.
When the speeches and parades are over, let's also take time to stop by the local cemetery to stand beside those who are still mourning. Let's grieve with them.
People are often reluctant to open up and share their needs with others. Yet only by allowing others to help carry their burdens will they find healing. Then the vision of freedom for which so many brave men and women died in past wars will become real.
Wherever people find one another and have community together, the peace that we all long for will be found. Let's pray for those that have not yet found this peace.
Alfredo Molano, a Colombian exile in Spain, once wrote, "The true end of a war is the rebirth of life--the end of fear, the right to die peacefully in one's own bed, and the return of laughter." Some of my best friends are veterans, and I have had to think of them in light of these words. I have seen the scars they continued to carry long after the fighting was over--in some cases right up to the present. These are wounds that only time and prayer can heal.
Fortunately, many have found healing--some by reconciling with former enemies and others by speaking out about their experiences and educating a new generation about the futility and evil of war. The result of these efforts is a strong faith and a deep peace. Through their work they have become an inspiration and role model to many children. They are taking part, as Molano says, in the "rebirth of life." These veterans are the real heroes of today's celebration. I'm thankful for each one.
[Johann Christoph Arnold is a pastor and author of ten books, which are available at www.plough.com. He is also a co-founder of Breaking the Cycle (www.breakingthecycle.com).]
Many of us in Christian media work for a particular ministry. We may be the producer / director, media director, a shooter or an editor. Some of us are on the worship team of a church /ministry that has a television ministry. Our ministry's exposure in Christian media is regular - either weekly or daily - and predictable.
The question remains, is it working? Are we having an impact upon our world? Is "Christian Television" even worth watching? Does it present Judeo-Christian morals and values in such a way that our American culture is impacted?
First of all let me say that I personally am a product of Christian Television. For the past 35 years I have produced programs that have aired on CBN, TBN, PTL and INSP, CTN and many other networks and syndicated TV stations across the country...and what does the face of Christian TV look like? Some have described it as a ghetto. Others call it talking-head TV. Yet others see it as an infomercial for various churches and ministries - a continual stream termed ministry. But does it impact society? Now I don't mean to be critical, but I believe it is high time we took a good look at the message, the methods, and the motives to see if we are really impacting our American society.
Let's begin by looking at the condition of our nation and the world today. Islam is on the rise; the acceptance of sin as an alternative lifestyle is on the rise; and a switch from the good values we have had just a few decades ago is on the decline. Church attendance among the young is on the decline as well. What is the solution? Can it be found in Christian Media?
If you ask any pastor, he or she will tell you that what we all need is Jesus. He is the answer. But how do we motivate people to take the time to hear us out and learn about Jesus? If we really feel that watching our programs is the answer and they don't necessarily have to attend our church services in person, then the question remains, are our programs - the endless stream of sermons and Bible teaching day after day on nearly every Christian TV channel - doing any good? Are people watching and listening? Are our programs relating to the audience that needs our message the most - the unsaved?
Can we as Christians in media actually steer others to the right way - to Judaic or biblical values without sending a hostile message and without compromise? I believe we can - but we can't do that and continue to 'minister' to our traditional audience of middle-aged or older Christians who are paying the bills.
You and I both know that for the most part we are preaching to the choir. Christian television is designed mostly for Christians to enjoy. So when a ministry or minister decides that he wants to evangelize the unchurched, should his program go on 'Christian Television'? I don't think so. There are many ways we can reach out to the lost other than through Christian TV. Some have produced feature-films. Many have designed state-of-the-art websites and podcasts or God-casts to reach today's generation, but still we are not reaching those across the oceans with the Gospel message. People in China and Japan, and most of Europe need the Gospel too.
We may never agree on the type of program or the right medium to get the job done, but I want to challenge you who are visionaries - who are vibrant and youthful. Now is the time to use the technology that is out there to reach the unsaved in America and around the world. We have the creativity, but the realities of the situation are that we must consider the potential viewership, donor response, even ratings, as much as we consider the spiritual impact and financial return.
Some churches today think they 'get it.' They have added the lights, the graphics, the awesome sound systems, are presenting today's music in an appealing manner. Quality and excellence are bywords, but is it just a show - a program - or is the Lord there? Is the Holy spirit given the freedom to move, to lead, to guide, to direct - and the ministers - some have fine-tuned their charismatic appeal, tweaked their style and made it appear as though their success depended upon the personality of the host as presenter.
I like programs that are authentic and creative - not the run of the mill variety. But that type of program requires a larger budget - just like all the whistles and bells in the church service require more technical equipment, larger staffs, more volunteers, and a larger budget.
There has to be a way to attract the 'world' to genuine Christianity. Many have stepped out in pure faith and used the technology at hand in their attempt to effectively communicate the Gospel message. I applaud them for stepping out of the boat and walking on the water.
Reality TV in secular television is becoming a 'ghetto' of sorts. But the answer may lie there in that format. What if we focused upon Reality TV with Christian themes? In any case, let's use our influence in whatever state we find ourselves to be truly led by God's Spirit, and just like 35 - 40 years ago when the Pat Robertsons and the Paul Crouches and the Jim Bakkers of the world tried a new thing and Christian Television was born - let's see how the Holy Spirit will use this generation's media ministers and the rest of us who work in the Media to effectively reach the lost as well as teach and disciple Believers.
Let us allow the Lord to enable us to produce programs that relate to the unsaved and present the answer they are seeking and do it with excellence. Let us produce programs that are sincere as well as having excellent production values. If we are entertaining, let us put forth our Judeo-Christian values in our humor, in the situations we present. But most of all, let us relate to our audience. What we present in the media must be relevant - real - and even re-invented. How we accomplish this is yet to be seen.
No one wants to be a part of a sinking ship. So when we find a leader who advocates major change in Christian media methods, let's not be so quick to discard his ideas. Let us encourage fresh vision, fresh approaches, innovative ways of utilizing websites and other methods to make our programming and media ministry relevant to today's culture. Take for example the program series "travel the road." They have done a wonderful job of relating to today's culture and BTW they give opportunity for travel and seeing the world while you are at it.
Let's find out what this generation wants to experience in or from the media, then let's deliver it - reality, truth, sincerity, entertainment. And let's weave in Judeo-Christian values. Let's utilize the technology, the new hardware and the new gear to provide the excellence, the skin, and the method, but let us be creative with our message using new formats. Let's provide the leadership to produce the programs that present themes about overcoming impossible odds, God or good triumphing over evil, messed up lives finding answers. Let us demonstrate in the media our values that really show the world the reality of the Gospel and our Christian love, our beliefs, and why we believe the way we do. Let us present Jesus - our living Savior. Let us present the cross, self-sacrifice, what it means to be a real Christian. Let us present a God of miracles
I feel the urgency for each of us in whatever our capacity and sphere of influence is to seek the Lord and ask Him right now to show us what His will is for us in the media. I know for myself, I had to stop producing programs that were off base in one area or another. God just wouldn't allow me to have a part in the production when it was not His will in the first place that a particular program series be on the air.
But when we hear form the Lord and obey what He tells us to do, we will have favor and blessing. As my pastor - Billy Joe Daugherty in Tulsa says, 'Where God Guides, He Provides!' The resources will be there. God will call others alongside you to help you fulfill your vision just like the 700 Club and others came about and the funds were raised to start Christian TV in the first place.
God has you and me - each one of us in our individual spheres of influence for His purpose. For myself, I plan to seek the Lord more than ever before and ask Him how He plans to use me to influence our world 'today' and impact our culture so that millions are won to the Lord while there is still time.
Years
ago people just didn't think about media evangelism or wether or not it existed. Media was the
press, and evangelism was the church. No lines crossed here, not even a
debate… life was simple. How can it be that life became so complicated?
The fact is that ‘media evangelism’ really began generations
before the press or the church existed. It began the moment words were
etched in stone or word was carried from one person to another about
the wonders of God and His will. Media is simply a means of
communication.
John 1:2-4 (KJV)
2 The same was in the beginning with God.
3 All things were made by him; and without him was not any thing made that was made.
4 In him was life; and the life was the light of men.
Have you noticed that Christian media is
increasing? In the last five years Christian book purchases have doubled
and continue to increase yearly. That does not include the Christian
media increase in other sectors of the industry such as music, dance,
theater, films, etc. Like it or not, Christian media is here to stay
and is increasing in our society. The old stereotype of media being a
'tool of the Devil' introduced by old world churches is no longer
appropriate. Our world is becoming divided in its thinking and,
although there continue to be Christians 'on the fence' the demand for
media glorifying to God is now on the minds of the largest media moguls
in our society. One important aspect of the benefits of viewing,
reading, or participating in Christian media, is the uplifting
spiritual awareness we receive.
How did you feel the last time
you went to a movie or read a book that completely eliminated God from
the equation? Even the most creative films, art, or books of all time
that eliminate God leave a void in the hearts and minds of consumers.
However,
in spite of all this demand for spiritual awareness and in spite of all
the media available to the public these days, we need to use wisdom in
accepting spiritual media (media evangelism) into our thinking. When it
comes from God, it lines up with the Word of God and is glorifying to
God. So, the next time you read a book, watch a movie, hear a sermon,
etc. ask yourself, is this person manipulating me away from God, and
His Word, or am I hearing or seeing exactly what His Word is saying. My
recommendation is to become very familiar with the book of Proverbs and
all the books of the Bible so that you can discern the difference.
Sending
a Bible to some areas in third world countries may not have the
impact and benefit that sending tapes, CDs, or DVDs will have because
of the amount of illiteracy in these areas unless there are
missionaries who can follow-up with these people. Media evangelism can
go
where no minister can go, so we, as Christians, would do well to
consume, promote, encourage, and distribute as much media as possible
so that there will be an ever flowing abundance of media available in
even the remotest corners of the world.
We're not claiming to
be the only ones promoting media evangelism, but we do have a large
resource of people available and/or can help point you in the right
direction to know more about media evangelism or to use media evangelism
in your ministry. For information on how you may be able to contribute
to media evangelism in India, Africa, or other parts of Asia contact: info@ChristianMediaAlliance.com
The Urban Gospel Alliance (UGA) is a Gospel music industry organization with a focus on the urban market. It is a forum and platform for all facets of urban gospel music--contemporary gospel, holy hip hop, inspirational, gospel jazz, neo-soul, and reggae. Because we realize that independent label artists have more limitations than major label artists and a greater necessity for a forum of this nature, our focus will be on independent label artists, however, we will by no means exclude or alienate our major label brothers and sisters that are putting it down for Christ.
Peoples Choice Award
Wild Characters Inhabit International Comics Exhibition
Albuquerque,
NM - Why are a spikey-haired street rapper from Cuba, a
cranky cactus from Australia, and a Goliath-powered housewife from
Japan hanging out together in the same hall? They're all part of an
Internet-based comics exhibition showcasing selected entries to
COMIX35's second International Christian Comics Competition. The
virtual show, located online at www.christiancomics.org, will run from
July 5th to September 5th.
Nate Butler, president of COMIX35,
stated "twenty four countries are represented in the exhibition
including Argentina, Indonesia, Estonia, Italy, Russia, Nigeria,
Canada, Brazil and Mexico. Top comics artists from every continent are
participating in this event."
COMIX35 organized the first International Christian Comics Competition in 2005 and a Spanish Comics Competition in 2006.
"Comics
are the 'medium of the masses' around the world," declared Butler.
"Middle Eastern youth, East Indian school children, Filipinos, French
and Mexican adults – all are huge readers of comics. And the Japanese
are in a class by themselves. Their best-selling comic has a
circulation of 3.2 million copies per week, compared to 2.5 million
copies a year for the top US comic book title."
COMIX35's
exhibition is providing entrants with the opportunity to prove they can
produce top-quality work that will reach these masses as well. Two
entrants will be selected as prize winners by judges from Japan,
Australia, England, France, Malaysia and the US, but all exhibition
visitors will be able to participate in designating the "People's
Choice Award."
For additional information contact: Nate Butler, 505-232-3500 or Nate@comix35.org.
About COMIX35 A
comics ministry based on the Bible verses from EXodus 35:30-35, COMIX35
has been training individuals and organizations around the world in the
production and effective use of comics-style literature since 1996.
Booking more and more bands and looking for new blood.
Last
month I wrote saying that I was re-launching JSP Booking Agency. To be
honest with you, I never expected such an amazing response. I can't
wait until next month when I debut our roster. I kid you not when I say
it is the strongest roster I have ever had. We are quickly growing and
wanted to give you guys the opportunity to be a part of what we are
doing.
First of all, Local Indies is back. These showcases are
for bands that are serious about catapulting their career. Our goal
in hosting these concerts is to give an honest critique of the artists
and provide exposure. Past Local Indies Alumni include The Daylights
(Sony/Epic), Rhythm (EMG/Warner), Glisten (KMG Records), and Seventh
Day Slumber (BEC Recordings), just to name a few. The winner will be
chosen by ballot composed of 50% audience vote and 50% judges' vote.
Since audience vote is so important, the more people that come, the
better. There is a huge process in selecting bands, so if you are a
fan of new music, this is the perfect place for you to get to see who
is in the area! The judge panel will consist of industry veterans and
professionals, including but not limited to radio personalities,
producers, record labels, booking agencies, promoters, and musicians.
These judges will be providing private feedback on each
artist/performer. This is an excellent opportunity to network and grow
a career. Launching soon, we will be taking Local Indies to other
cities. The winner of each Local Indies will win a professional
recording at a first class studio, a major marketing push to radio,
media, promoters, and national distribution. Right now we are taking
applications from bands that are within 75 miles of Dallas/Ft. Worth,
Abilene and Houston. If you are a band interested in playing, send an
email to A.J. at aj@jimmyswan.com and say you would like an application for Local Indies. If you are interested in being a judge, contact A.J. as well.
****
We
are looking to execute all of the following as soon as possible, so if
there is something that you are interested in, please contact us
immediately.
01. We need street teams who can help us build and
promote local bands. Our major focus is in developing bands. This will
include a major push on the internet, so location is not an issue.
02.
If you are with a venue, church or a promoter looking to host concerts
and events, we have a large variety of bands, comedians, speakers and
entertainers that will work around any budget. Money is not an issue.
We MIGHT be able to get you free concerts, depending on the event!
03.
Graphic designers: we are developing a strong marketing team, so we are
looking for "team players" who want to build a strong portfolio. We
will guarantee national exposure! We need designers as well as
webmasters.
04. Nationwide Studios/Producers: If you own a
studio or have a heart to develop indie bands, we are interested in
seeing your resume.
05. Booking agents: We have a plan in
place and a full roster ready to put you to work. Anyone interested in
being an agent, please send us a resume.
06.
Bands/Artists/Speakers: If you are willing to work extra hard and are
already successfully touring, please email js@jimmyswan.com about our
non-exclusive booking agency.
07. Distribution: Any bands,
comedians, speakers or anyone who has a recording, I can offer digital
distribution with BurnLounge as well as iTunes!
08. BurnLounge:
I know, I know, it seems like every time you get an email from me, I
mention BurnLounge, but honestly, I can't write about it enough. There
is a new video at www.myspace.com/InternationalLounge that only is 1.30
min long. It gives a preview of what BL2 is, coming out in March! If
you really want to know how it all works and see how in-depth
BurnLounge really is, go to www.burnreview.com. You can sign up online
at www.burnmerch.com, but I recommend calling us (817 907 2782) to help
walk you through it.
09. Wow, I can't believe you have read
this much. I will end with this. I have been contracted to be the
movie supervisor for my 3rd film. This one is an independent horror
film. Any bands looking to get your music on a movie, and willing to
work with a backend deal, let me know.
Look forward to talking to you soon.
Jimmy Swan
******
:::Follow My Band:::
Bands
would you like more fans coming out to your shows, at no cost to you?
FollowMyBand.com aims to make that happen, but we need artist input to
really make it rock! Any of the artists that take 60 seconds to fill
out our survey will get free access to our Tour Syndicator, an online
tool that will automatically syndicate your tour dates out to all the
places fans are looking for shows=Event websites like pollstar.com,
eventful, upcoming, myspace, your own website, and even local
newspapers in the area of the show!!
Podcasting is a means of distributing audio and video programs via the Internet that lets users subscribe to a number of files, also known as "feeds", and then hear or view the material at the time that they choose. A feed is usually in the MP3 audio format.
Podcasting became popular in late 2004 with the spread of free software that enabled automatic downloading of audio MP3 files onto computers and mobile MP3 players.
"Podcasting" is distinct from other types of online media delivery because of its subscription model, rather than one-time delivery. A series of files are delivered because subscribers want to get the information regularly.
Subscriptions use a "feed" (such as RSS or Atom) to deliver the enclosed files. Podcasting enables independent producers to create self-published, syndicated "radio shows," and gives broadcast radio or television programs a new distribution method. Listeners may subscribe to feeds using "podcatching" software, which periodically checks for and downloads new content automatically.
You do not need an iPod or other portable music player to listen to podcasts. If you're reading this now, you have everything you need to listen to my podcasts, with the possible exception of the free iTunes software.
God's iPod is one of the first Christian podcasting outlets that has regular daily podcasts produced at a professional level. God's iPod has gained a top position in Apple's iTunes Music Store which has helped it gain rapid growth. In my first 4 days of podcasting, God’s iPod amassed over 600 subscribers (now well over 4000) and now pumps out over 120,000 downloads per month, growing more than 35% per month. God's iPod has quickly attained a leadership position through the creation of exciting original content aimed at 12-35 year olds. The goal is to provide resources for new believers, to feed them good solid Biblical teaching and help raise up a new generation of believers who have strong, solid relationships with God, actually read/listen to their Bibles, and know more scripture than John 3:16 and John 14:6.
Podcast definition:
Podcasting is a method of publishing files via the Internet, allowing users to subscribe to a feed and receive new files automatically. It became popular in late 2004, intended largely for downloading audio files onto a portable MP3 player. However, listening to podcasts does not require a portable player and it is not traditional "broadcasting" to a mass audience at a fixed time.
The word "podcasting" is a linguistic blend coined in February 2004, combining "broadcasting" with the name of Apple Computer's iPod audio player (although podcasting was not invented by Apple, nor do podcasts require a portable player or Apple software).
It is distinct from other types of online audio delivery because of its subscription model, which uses the RSS 2.0 file format. Podcasting enables independent producers to create self-published, syndicated "radio shows," and gives broadcast radio programs a new distribution channel. Listeners may subscribe to feeds using "podcatching" software (a type of "aggregator"), which periodically checks for and downloads new content. Some podcatching software is also able to synchronise (copy) podcasts to portable music players. Any digital audio player or computer with audio-playing software can play podcasts.
Podcasting's essence is about creating content (audio or video) for an audience that wants to listen when they want, where they want, and how they want.
Podcasting versus broadcasting and streaming
Subscribing to podcasts allows a user to collect programs from a variety of sources for listening or viewing offline at whatever time and place is convenient. In contrast, traditional broadcasting provides only one source at a time, and the time is broadcaster-specified. While podcasts are gaining ground on personal sites and blogs, they're not yet widespread. One easy way to find podcasts is to use the Podcast Directory in iTunes; these automatically-updated podcasts can then be easily synchronised to your iPod for offline listening.
"Streaming" files from the Internet can remove the specified-time restriction, but still offers only one source at a time, and requires the user to be connected to the Internet while playing the files. The ability to "aggregate" programs from multiple sources is a major part of the attraction of podcast-listening.
Although streamed programs, like broadcast radio signals, can be recorded or captured by the receiver, their transient nature distinguishes them from podcast episodes, which arrive already in archived form.
The editors of the New Oxford American Dictionary declared "podcasting" the 2005 word of the year in December, defining the term as "a digital recording of a radio broadcast or similar program, made available on the Internet for downloading to a personal audio player"
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia.
A VOICE CRYING OUT IN THE U.S. -Calling For Revival in America- By Christopher L. Pick
Part 1 of Chapter 2
The Pharisees and Sadducees would try and trap Jesus with many questions to try and prove Jesus to be another false messiah. They often asked the question, “What good thing must I do to inherit eternal life?” - a question many still ask today. This question stresses work - that there is something we can do to get to heaven - that we can work our way to heaven. However, Ephesians 2:8 tells us that “it is by grace (we) have been saved, through faith - and this is not from (ourselves), it is the gift of God - not by works, so that no one can boast.” (NIV) And even though Jesus knew the purpose behind their questions, He “graciously” answered every one. And in order for us to inherit eternal life, we must remember what Christ told us in response to these questions.
In John 3, a Pharisee, wanting to know the answer to this question, approaches Jesus. And Jesus clearly tells the man in verses 3-5 to be “born again.” One is reborn when s/he accepts Jesus as Lord and Savior. The old self has died, and the person then becomes a new creation (2 Corinthians 5:17). And we see this when people accept Christ. They get excited about their newfound faith and start sharing favorite Bible verses with friends. The focus of everything becomes Jesus. It’s such a wonderful, awesome, undescribable feeling. Just think back on how you felt when you came to know Jesus!
Going back to John 3: Jesus, after telling the man to be reborn, goes on to say in verse 16: “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.” (NIV) This verse is probably the most popular verse in the whole Bible. Missionaries worldwide share this verse with people who don’t know Jesus Christ. However, this verse (alone) has led to confusion and even debate over salvation.
Years back, New Tribe missionaries in tribal Third World countries would tell the idigenous people that we are all sinners and that we need Jesus. They would then read to them John 3:16. They believed that one could be saved through John 3:16. But the natives didn’t understand the nature of sin, because they did not know the Old Testament. And so, they continued to live in sin. They were also used to worshiping other gods - holding onto the practices and beliefs they were accustomed to. They would even worship Jehovah God in the way that they worshiped their god. And Jehovah had warned us in Deuteronomy 12:31 not to worship Him in the way that others worship false gods, because these practices are detestable before God.
And so, the New Triber missionaries discovered that they needed to present the whole Bible to those who didn’t know Jesus. They needed the whole Bible to help people get to know our God, Who is our Father in heaven. And this makes sense. Afterall, could you love and trust your earthly father if you really didn’t know him? Of course not. And so, how can we trust a God that we don’t know? But, we can know God, because the whole Bible describes God clearly. In the Old Testament, God reveals His power and majesty - laying down His Law. And in the New Testament, He shows us how much He loves us and wants to be a nurturing Father to us by sending Christ Who is the end of the Law (Romans 10:4).
Another big problem with being saved under John 3:16, is that many think that believing “just once” will get you saved. Then, if you stop believing, you are still saved. That if one just calls on the Name of the Lord “once,” then that person is saved. And those who hold to this belief tend to ignore the verses that follow John 3:16...”For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him. Whoever believes in him is not condemned, but whoever does not believe stands condemned....” (vs.17-18, NIV) It doesn’t say that those who believe but stop believing are saved, but rather it says that those who don’t believe are condemned.
Many Christians uphold the “once saved, always saved” belief; meaning that once you get saved, you can never lose your salvation (even if you stop believing). You can lose your faith, but you can never lose your salvation. And some argue that if you walk away, then you were never really saved to begin with. Afterall, why would you want to walk away? But in truth, people do get saved and walk away. Afterall, Judas “Iscariot” believed in Christ and followed Christ. But, he later fell away and betrayed Christ. True, he wasn’t given the seal - the Holy Spirit. But, he still “once” believed and fell away - or it could be said that he had no root. And for those who believe that you are still saved even if you stop believing, then that means that Judas is in heaven with Jesus. However, Luke 22:3, Acts 1:18, and John 17:12 reveal that Satan had entered this former Christian - bringing him to ruin. Also, if this were true, then John Lennon of The Beatles was a Christian and is now in heaven with Jesus. And I know many Christians who would argue against this, considering his lifestyle up until the time of his death..
Please understand that I’m not judging John Lennon (afterall, God is the Judge) and Lennon could be in heaven, because we don’t know where he stood with God before he died - only God knew his heart. But I’ll share with you a true documented account of John Lennon’s life and how he became a Christian. It also shows what happens to those who fall away:
Being a fan, I released a song in dedication to Lennon for his 20th Memorial which was in December 2000. In doing so, I had the chance to meet and work with so many people connected in many ways with The Beatles (friends, musicians, journalists, etc.). And the following information was shared with me by many people - including two Christian journalists. Some of these people had chatted with Lennon many times and some knew Lennon. And from my understanding, this documented account of Lennon’s life was recently put into a book...although, I hadn’t read it or even seen it. But first, let me take you back quite a few years and give you a little history behind John Lennon’s life.
John Lennon had a troubled childhood growing up in Liverpool, England. Neither his father nor his mother wanted him. John’s father split when he was a child, and his mother wasn’t fit to raise him alone. And so, Lennon was raised by his mother’s sister - never truly knowing the love of a parent. When he was a teenager, his mother re-entered his life. But this happy reunion was cut short when his mother was struck and killed by a car just days later. Trying to cope with the loss of his mother, Lennon persued music and art. He eventually married a young girl he had met in art school. And by the time Beatlemania had swept the world, Lennon had a wife and a son. However, fame, pressure, alcohol, constant drug use, and isolation from the world added to his pain from the past and took a toll on his new life and marriage And eventually, Lennon met another woman named Yoko Ono. Lennon then divorced his wife (deserting his wife and their son as his own father had done to him) and he married Yoko Ono. His new marriage created conflicts with his bandmembers. But, after ten years, The Beatles eventually decided to call it quits.
The Beatles all grew up in a church family, but each began to feel that the Church as a whole had been sliding downhill for a long time. They felt that the Church wasn’t building Jesus and His image up enough, and that there was a decline in the interest of Christ worldwide. They stressed that the Church needed to do more. And this is true.
In 1966, John pointed out that more kids were following The Beatles than Jesus Christ. However, a U.S. newspaper mis-quoted this statement to mean that Lennon had thought The Beatles were “bigger” than Jesus Christ. And many Christians had perceived Lennon as being blasphemous. This caused an uprising, and The Beatles were attacked by Christians (especially in the southern Bible-Belt region) over this mis-quote - only adding fuel to the fire. But interestingly, Lennon’s statement didn’t surprise the Bishop of Montreal. The Rev. Kenneth Maguire pointed out that when it came to popularity, Jesus was even second-best to Barabbas. And so, it wouldn’t have surprised him to discover that The Beatles “were” bigger than Jesus Christ in popularity.
Lennon took interest in Christ, but he felt that Jesus’ Disciples (His followers) were “thick” and “ordinary.” He felt that the Disciples had even twisted Christ’s teachings and the true meaning of Christianity. And, in doing so, they had twisted Jesus. He was even afraid of Christianity, because he knew that a lot of bad things have happened in the Name of Christ and His Church. But he also believed that all religious leaders from Christ to Buddha were right and that all religions are the same. A view he would later reject. Lennon always believed in what Christ said (the basic things about love and goodness), but Lennon felt that Christ’s followers had added to His Words and teachings. And so, he didn’t believe what he felt Christians say that Christ had said.
Lennon even thought of The Beatles themselves as a new religion (due to their messages on peace and love), and he felt that all people, including Christ’s followers, should follow The Beatles. He believed that the popularity of Christ mean’t control, and Lennon didn’t want this for anyone. Lennon only wanted freedom. But he failed to see that true freedom was in Christ.
Not only did Lennon view his rock group as a new dominating religion, but he believed that we were all God. Afterall, the Bible taught that God and His Presence dwelt within us. And so, he began taking scripture out of context to back up his own beliefs. Lennon also believed that all truth lied within all of us. And it was in 1967 that each Beatle decided to find this inner-Presence.
In 1967, all four members of the band went on a spirit quest. George Harrison began to study Indian music, and his studies had taken him and the other Beatles to India where they began the study of Transcendental Meditation. And eventually, The Beatles became followers of the Indian religious sect “Hare Krishna.” Unlike Harrison, Lennon eventually would find this religion to be false in it’s teachings. And so, he began searching for God in Buddhism, Secular Humanism, and in the New Age movement of the 70s. He was always trying to find a way that we can help ourselves. But in all of these teachings and beliefs, he never found anything real. He also discovered that we can’t help ourselves - that we can’t save ourselves. We can’t do it alone. Lennon knew we needed a savior. And Lennon himself needed a savior.
His pain followed him into the 70s as he tried to maintain a solo career and speak-out politically. He eventually believed religion was a con, and he saw God (as he stated in a song) as “a concept by which we measure our own pain.” Constant pressure on his second marriage and his drug-use (along with tabloid pressure) had sunk Lennon into a deeper depression. His wife Yoko Ono eventually left him, and he found himself in the arms of yet another woman who was a friend of Ono’s. And yet, he couldn’t find happiness. And it was during this time that questions about God began to resurface. He began secretly calling the 700 Club for advice, and they began to point Lennon back to Christ.
In time, Lennon and his wife Ono got back together and even had a son. Lennon then decided to retire from the music industry and be a family man. And it was around this time that Lennon eventually accepted Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior. He was finally happy and was always talking about Jesus and sharing Jesus with his family. He even took his son to church with him. Then, Satan attacked using the Adam and Eve strategy. His unsaved wife Yoko Ono kept telling Lennon that, just like with all his previous religious beliefs, he’ll see his newfound love for Christ as just another false belief. And Lennon gave in and abandoned Christ. He then returned to the music industry and a life of pain and drugs. Yet, once you experience the love of Christ, it becomes hard to lose the feelings that come with that love. And Lennon continued to hold a love for Christ in his heart, although he lived as a heathen. And as long as he lived in sin, the devil was there to make his life a living hell - bringing him down to hell with him.
Lennon’s pain and still-lingering love for Christ were evident in the words of one of his final recordings LORD, HELP ME TO HELP MYSELF which proves the belief that the Lord only helps those who help themselves is a lie - and that we can’t do it alone (see James 4:4-10 and 15:4-7). In the song, he expressed that he was under the attack of Satan, but that he still had a longing for Jesus in his heart: “Well, I tried so hard to settle down, but the angel of destruction keeps on houndin’ me all around. But I know in my heart that we never really parted - oh, no. Oh help me Lord...Please help me Lord...Help me to help myself.” This was a prayer song, and it was his final recorded prayer for “help.” And not long after Lennon recorded this demo, he was murdered outside his home by a deranged fan. It could be that God not only heard his prayer but answered - delivering Lennon from sin and pain. Or it could be that sin overtook him and brought him to ruin.
Lennon’s story is sad, but it’s not uncommon. Many choose to stop believing in Jesus, because they struggle with life. They try Jesus for a little while, but they don’t really give Him a chance - they don’t hang in there. If Jesus doesn’t change things and make things better immediately, then they stop believing. And without Christ, there’s no life - only death. In some people’s eyes, people like John Lennon are in heaven. However, the Bible makes it clear that we can jeopardize our salvation as long as we live. And if we die not believing in Jesus Christ (accepting Him as our Lord and Savior) and/or living in sin apart from God, then we have lost our salvation. And if John Lennon died not knowing Christ as his Lord and Savior, then he faced the consequence.
COMMENT:
Mel Gibson's, "The Passion of Christ" by Pola Muzyka
With a 25 million dollar budget for the making of the film and another 25 + million dollars for advertising it's hard to deny that this film has media backing and influence. However, recently I viewed this film thinking it would be a film that would draw me closer to Christ. I was disgusted (there were young children in the audience) and especially disappointed that some of my fellow Christians, particularly a few of those who are evangelists thinking this is a breakthrough. They should be leaving a warning to the potential viewer instead. A breakthrough? Mel Gibson is famous for depicting the worse possible horror of brutal murders. What I saw was sensationalism at it's best.
Although this film does have some Biblical accuracies, it also has many errors - it is simpy put, a story of a possibly exaggerated brutal murder depiction of Christ with brutality consuming most of the minutes. With twisted and swollen eyes and an almost chopped-meat look to his body, the hideousness of this actor's appearance could hardly show a compassionate Christ as he said, "Father forgive them." There are many scenes (distorted characters, a snake going into a nose, a female Satan, the carcass of a dead horse with maggots, flies, and the works, Mary depicted as a mystic being able to hear Jesus breathe through thick walls, all the Jews, except Jesus' immediate family and disciple agreeing with the crucifixion-whereas in truth only a small segment of the Jews wanted Jesus crucified) that do not line up with the Word of God. In Gibson's eyes the soldiers are sadistically clowns vying for a crack at the whip most of the time although they repeatedly heard "this man did nothing wrong."
Frankly, if one were to believe this as a true replica of the murder of Christ, one would argue that he couldn't possibly have gotten all the way to the cross without dying on the way.
See this movie for what it is, if you like the idea of watching a Christ proxy being mutilate: a brutal murder. However, read the original book if you want the truth and the full picture. If you haven't read the Bible yet, it's about time you did.
For more information on the effects of viewing TV & Film violence see: http://www.cybercollegecom/violence.htm
Christ had a specific reason for giving himself over to death, that reason was your salvation.
Christ had a specific reason for giving himself over to death, that reason was your salvation.
Isaiah 53 1 Who hath believed our report? and to whom is the arm of the LORD revealed? 2 For he shall grow up before him as a tender plant, and as a root out of a dry ground: he hath no form nor comeliness; and when we shall see him, there is no beauty that we should desire him. 3 He is despised and rejected of men; a man of sorrows, and acquainted with grief: and we hid as it were our faces from him; he was despised, and we esteemed him not. 4 Surely he hath borne our griefs, and carried our sorrows: yet we did esteem him stricken, smitten of G-d, and afflicted. 5 But he was wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace was upon him; and with his stripes we are healed. 6 All we like sheep have gone astray; we have turned every one to his own way; and the LORD hath laid on him the iniquity of us all. 7 He was oppressed, and he was afflicted, yet he opened not his mouth: he is brought as a lamb to the slaughter, and as a sheep before her shearers is dumb, so he openeth not his mouth. 8 He was taken from prison and from judgment: and who shall declare his generation? for he was cut off out of the land of the living: for the transgression of my people was he stricken. 9 And he made his grave with the wicked, and with the rich in his death; because he had done no violence, neither was any deceit in his mouth. 10 Yet it pleased the LORD to bruise him; he hath put him to grief: when thou shalt make his soul an offering for sin, he shall see his seed, he shall prolong his days, and the pleasure of the LORD shall prosper in his hand. 11 He shall see of the travail of his soul, and shall be satisfied: by his knowledge shall my righteous servant justify many; for he shall bear their iniquities. 12 Therefore will I divide him a portion with the great, and he shall divide the spoil with the strong; because he hath poured out his soul unto death: and he was numbered with the transgressors; and he bare the sin of many, and made intercession for the transgressors.
VIOLENT MUSIC LYRICS INCREASE AGGRESSIVE THOUGHTS AND FEELINGS, ACCORDING TO A NEW STUDY
Contact: David Partenheimer mailto: dpartenheimer@apa.org Public Affairs Office (202) 336-5706 ------------------------------------------------------- Even Humorous Violent Songs Increase Hostile Feelings ------------------------------------------------------- WASHINGTON - Songs with violent lyrics increase aggression related thoughts and emotions and this effect is directly related to the violence in the lyrics, according to a new study published by the American Psychological Association (APA). The findings, appearing in the May issue of the Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, contradicts popular notions of positive catharsis or venting effects of listening to angry, violent music on violent thoughts and feelings.
In a series of five experiments involving over 500 college students, researchers from Iowa State University and the Texas Department of Human Services examined the effects of seven violent songs by seven artists and eight nonviolent songs by seven artists. The students listened to the songs and were given various psychological tasks to measure aggressive thoughts and feelings. One such task involved participants classifying words that can have both aggressive and nonaggressive meanings, such as rock and stick.
To control for factors not related to the content of the lyrics, the violent and nonviolent songs were sung by the same artists and were in the same musical style in three of the experiments. In the two other experiments, the researchers tested the arousal properties of the songs to make sure the violent-lyric effects were not due to differences in arousal. Also, individual personality differences related to hostility were assessed and controlled. The study also included songs with humorous lyrics to see how humor interacted with violent song lyrics and aggressive thoughts. Results of the five experiments show that violent songs led to more aggressive interpretations of ambiguously aggressive words, increased the relative speed with which people read aggressive vs. nonaggressive words, and increased the proportion of word fragments (such as h_t) that were filled in to make aggressive words (such as hit). The violent songs increased feelings of hostility without provocation or threat, according to the authors, and this effect was not the result of differences in musical style, specific performing artist or arousal properties of the songs. Even the humorous violent songs increased aggressive thoughts.
The violent-song increases in aggressive thoughts and feelings have implications for real world violence, according to lead researcher Craig A. Anderson, Ph.D. of Iowa State University. "Aggressive thoughts can influence perceptions of ongoing social interactions, coloring them with an aggressive tint. Such aggression-biased interpretations can, in turn, instigate a more aggressive response -verbal or physical - than would have been emitted in a nonbiased state, thus provoking an aggressive escalatory spiral of antisocial exchanges," said Dr. Anderson.
The study investigated precursors to aggression rather than aggressive behavior itself. More research is needed, say the authors, to identify the short-term and long-term effects of violent song lyrics. Repeated exposure to violent lyrics may contribute to the development of an aggressive personality and could indirectly create a more hostile social environment, although the authors say it is possible that the effects of violent songs may last only a fairly short time.
"One major conclusion from this and other research on violent entertainment media is that content matters," said Dr. Anderson. "his message is important for all consumers, but especially for parents of children and adolescents."
Article: "Exposure to Violent Media: The Effects of Songs With Violent Lyrics on Aggressive Thoughts and Feelings," Craig A. Anderson and Nicholas L. Carnagey, Iowa State University and Janie Eubanks, Texas Department of Human Services; Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, Vol. 84, No. 5.
*** The American Psychological Association (APA), in Washington, DC, is the largest scientific and professional organization representing psychology in the United States and is the world's largest association of psychologists.
APA's membership includes more than 150,000 researchers, educators, clinicians, consultants and students. Through its divisions in 53 subfields of psychology and affiliations with 60 state, territorial and Canadian provincial associations, APA works to advance psychology as a science, as a profession and as a means of promoting health, education and human welfare. **
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