Blogging Etiquette

As Christians it is always important for us to consider the things we say, how we say them, and what message is being portrayed. So to keep with that, Here are some questions to keep in mind before you comment and hit "post" on a blog.

• Is this comment gracious? (Col. 4:6)
• Is this comment seasoned with salt? (Col. 4:6)
• Is this comment corrupting? (Eph. 4:29)
• Is this comment seeking to build up the church for good? (Eph. 4:29)
• Is this comment intended to give grace to those who read it? (Eph. 4:29)
• Is this comment fitting and appropriate? (Eph. 4:29)
• Is this comment true? Is this comment written in love? (Eph. 4:15, 25)

2) Speaking of blogging: the Band of Bloggers gathering at T4G was captured on video andaudio.

3) Still speaking of blogging, Dan Phillips has some good advice on blogging philosophy, etiquette, and strategery.

His Last Seven Words--Antoinette R. Banks

Here are the: Seven Last Words of Jesus as recorded in the Gospel from Luke to John.

1. Luke 23:34 (New International Version)

Jesus said, "Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing.”

2. Luke 23:43 (New International Version)

Jesus answered him, "I tell you the truth, today you will be with me in paradise."

3. John 19:26-27 (New International Version)

²⁶When Jesus saw his mother there, and the disciple whom he loved standing nearby, he said to his mother, "Dear woman, here is your son," ²⁷and to the disciple, "Here is your mother." From that time on, this disciple took her into his home.

4.a Matthew 27:46 (New International Version)

About the ninth hour Jesus cried out in a loud voice, "Eloi, Eloi, lama sabachthani?"—which means, "My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?

4. b Mark 15:34 (New International Version

And at the ninth hour Jesus cried out in a loud voice, "Eloi, Eloi, lama sabachthani?"—which means, "My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?"

5. John 19:28 (New International Version)

Later, knowing that all was now completed, and so that the Scripture would be fulfilled, Jesus said, "I am thirsty.”

6. John 19:30 (New International Version)
When he had received the drink, Jesus said, "It is finished." With that, he bowed his head

and gave up his spirit.

7. Luke 23:46 (New International Version)

Jesus called out with a loud voice, "Father, into your hands I commit my spirit." When he had said this, he breathed his last.

Holy Week--Antoinette R. Banks

This week marks Holy Week that was kicked off with an amazing sermon by Bishop Charles E. Blake titled, When You Have to Do What You Don’t Want to Do. Many Christian churches observe Holy Week as time to commemorate and reenact the suffering and death of Our Savior leading up to His resurrection through various observances and services of worship.

Something you might find useful while reflecting God’s love and the ultimate sacrifice so that we might have life are Google Earth’s attempt to show the locations of the major events (to the best of their knowledge) along with descriptions and biblical passages describing those events.

The image is from Google Map. Click here, and then click on each letter to the left to see a summary of the events for each day.

To keep in conjunction with Holy Week, we will be streaming our Good Friday service at 12:00PM on WebTV.

Is the Internet the Devil?!?!? --Antoinette R. Banks

With the web team hitting 74 countries and and all 50 states while utilizing the tools of technology as a means to evangelize, edify, and equip the world, it is safe to say that the internet is not the devil!!You’d be surprised at the many comments we receive on a continuous basis on how technology is evil.

Here are a few of our received comments:

Statement: “The internet takes time away from my bible reading”

Answer: “We can introduce to an online bible that gives you the advantages of reading or listening to the bible while taking and sharing notes at the same time. That online bible is called youversion

Statement: “There are too many pornographic sites that inhibit me from communicating with other saints.

Answer: “Let us introduce you to our WebTv page Live

Where saints can chat live from all over the world while watching the stream of our Bishop, Charles E. Blake using a service called Coveritlive.

Statement: "The internet takes away from my praying time."

Answer: "We always encourage you to seek God and build your personal relationship! If you would like to utilize technology, let us introduce you to our prayer requests page where you have access to saints all over to join you in your prayer." For where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them. Matthew 18:20 (KJV)

Keep us in your prayers as we continue to push the limits of technology for our evangelistic goals. If you'd like more technology tips visit our tech blog: "The Tip Top of Tech Talk" with our Web Master, Evan.

Are You A Proverbs 31 Woman?--Antoinette R. Banks

Women today have so many expectations placed on them! Some woman go to school, hold down a have a professional job, or stay home and take care of the family, but above all…the question remains, are you a woman after God’s own heart? Perhaps an insight is given in Proverbs 31. Let's look at the verses of this scripture and see what we can glean from it.

1. Proverbs 31:10-12 "A wife of noble character who can find? She is worth far more than rubies. Her husband has full confidence in her and lacks nothing of value. She brings him good, not harm, all the days of her life." This woman is the wife of an elder in the city. She has a good reputation herself, bringing a good reputation to her family. She keeps her husband in mind for good things, and will not cause him problems.

2. Proverbs 31:13-16 "She selects wool and flax and works with eager hands. She is like the merchant ships, bringing her food from afar. She gets up while it is still dark; she provides food for her family and portions for her servant girls. She considers a field and buys it; out of her earnings she plants a vineyard." She is a very capable and confident woman. She supplies the needs of her family, including food and clothes. She also has servant girls that help with the load. She treats them well. She has a good sense for business and makes her own money, and makes all investments.
   
   
3. Proverbs 31:17-19 "She sets about her work vigorously; her arms are strong for her tasks. She sees that her trading is profitable, and her lamp does not go out at night. In her hand she holds the distaff and grasps the spindle with her fingers."
   She is not lazy, and keeps in good shape. She makes time to do things for her family.
   
4. Proverbs 31:20-25 "She opens her arms to the poor and extends her hands to the needy. When it snows, she has no fear for her household; for all of them are clothed in scarlet. She makes coverings for her bed; she is clothed in fine linen and purple. Her husband is respected at the city gate, where he takes his seat among the elders of the land. She makes linen garments and sells them, and supplies the merchants with sashes. She is clothed with strength and dignity; she can laugh at the days to come."
   She is a caring person in that she helps those who are less fortunate. She cares for her family and makes sure that all their needs are met. She is a respected business woman. She has inner strength that gives her confidence in the days to come.
   
   
5. Proverbs 31:31--"She speaks with wisdom, and faithful instruction is on her tongue. She watches over the affairs of her household and does not eat the bread of idleness. Her children arise and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praises her: 'Many women do noble things, but you surpass them all.' Charm is deceptive, anis fleeting; but a woman who fears the LORD is to be praised. Give her the reward she has earned, and let her works bring her praise at the city gate."
   She is a wise woman and an encouraging word for anyone. Her wisdom comes from the Lord, whom she seeks continuously. She is encouraged by both her children and her husband.

Do you consider yourself a proverbs 31 woman?

Martial Arts as a Means to promote the Gospel

Take a look at what top pro blogger, Justin Taylor shares from Mike McKinley's view of using martial arts to draw people to the gospel:

Jesus Didn’t Come to Help You Get In Touch with Your Inner MMA Fighter

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37th Anniversary of Roe v. Wade

Today is the 37th anniversary of the Supreme Court’s infamous decision, Roe v. Wade. See top blogger's Justin Taylor's interview with Clarke D. Forsythe, J. D., Valparaiso University; M.A., bioethics, Trinity International University.

Overturning and Undermining Roe v. Wade: An Interview with Clarke Forsythe – Justin Taylor

Bishop Blake Says: "Haiti, You Are Not Cursed"--Antoinette R. Banks

The Rev. Pat Robertson, on his CBN broadcast, offered his own explanation of the earthquake in Haiti:



"Something happened a long time ago in Haiti, and people might not want to talk about it," he said. "They were under the heel of the French ... and they got together and swore a pact to the devil. They said, 'We will serve you if you'll get us free from the French.'
"True story. And the devil said, 'OK, it's a deal,'" Robertson said. "Ever since, they have been cursed by one thing after another."

If a televangelist comes on national television, with a following in the thousands, he or she ought to not offer insidious terminology about a country after a catastrophic natural disaster. How Pat Robertson knows such concrete terms of a demonic pack unless he had access to some ancient scroll in some private society somewhere is beyond me. (I’m not saying, I’m just saying).

When Robertson, with all genius, chose to describe a country blighted by devastation, “cursed” what images come to mind? The word “cursed” invokes images of voodoo and magic deified by an ethnic group. Language in itself can be confusing—what is the purpose of using misguided words? Did the “curse” take effect by a post-Colonial debt that no Western nation ever had to endure?

A free Haiti was hobbled economically from the start after not paying off their “independence debt” from France until 1947. After being defeated by Toussaint L’Ouverture, the French colonial powers who held Haiti demanded reparations in the form of 90 million gold francs for their freedom, (over $20 billion currently!) This ominous debt is what set the foundation for the massive poverty of the nation.

The recycling of Haitian francs between the French and the US is what paved the way for the Louisiana Purchase—otherwise known as the Vente de la Louisiane. The purchase included 14 states and 2 Canadian provinces which astoundingly expanded and enriched the United States. On the other hand, if the money was kept in Haitian hands instead of being thrown away as “reparation” I envision a more prosperous land.

What might have happened had the billions of dollars in gold not been exported out of Haiti but helped to build its infrastructure and education? What if the fallen buildings where built more sturdily, with earthquake defiant buildings, schools, and homes? What if Haiti was a country side with its forests intact ignorant to the term of deforestation? The current Haiti would have a substitute built on its hard-earned resources. A natural disaster could still strike, but the country would be equipped to survive nature’s blows and remain a land blessed by the fruits of the hard work of its people.

The most encouraging phrase I could hear was Bishop Charles E. Blake’s heartening words, “HAITI YOU ARE NOT CURSED.”

HT: FARAI!

The Book of Eli

The first $80 million dollar budgetary movie, based on a Christian apocalyptic type themes was the first movie I ever heard Bishop Charles E. Blake say, “Go see this movie.” Since its release on January 15th the movie has grossed $38,020,000.

Here’s the synopsis on IMBD:

Eli (Denzel Washington) has been on a journey for 30 years, walking west across America after a cataclysmic war that turned the earth into a total wasteland. The world has become a lawless civilization where people must kill or be killed. The barren roads belong to gangs of cutthroats who rob and kill for water, a pair of shoes, a lighter, or just for fun. Eli is a peaceful man who only acts in self defense, and becomes a warrior with unbelievable killing skills when he is challenged. After the war and the "Big Flash,” Eli was guided by a higher power to a hidden book and given the task of protecting the book and taking it to its final destination. Eli guards the book with his life, because he knows that the book is the only hope that humanity has for its future.

If you’ve seen the movie, write your review and tell us what you think.

AtypicalAnecdote

AtypicalAnecdote

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Bishop's Response to Haiti--Antoinette R. Banks

Overwhelmed by the devastation that has hit the town and people of Haiti, our Bishop, Charles E. Blake has released a video statement and appeal:



While President Obama has dispatched military troops and an air and sea flotilla, United Nation's financial contributions, Iraq's medical specialists, China's pledge, and a military reconnaissance team from Canada are collecting together, we want you to be a part and wield an impressive movement in the effort as well.


It is our desire to see relief sent to our brothers and sisters in Haiti and we, in agreement with Bishop, ask for you to contribute whatever amount God has put on your heart. Within each ripple of donation from the body of Christ, we will ultimately make a wave of an effect.


Please continue to uplift the people of Haiti for recovery in their bodies and minds from this incomprehensible tragedy.

How to Argue Like Jesus--Antoinette R. Banks

Revelant Magazine, a magazine geared towards, "God. Life. And Progressive Culture" often offer thought provoking reads. Contributors, John Coleman and Joe Carter, present an interesting write up on how stop your debates from becoming fights from a Christian perspective.

Take a quick look and let us know what you think!

RELEVANT Magazine - How to Argue Like Jesus

Great Online Bible! --Antoinette R. Banks

Online Bible

Looking for an exciting online Bible? The West Angeles Web Team recommends youversion, an innovative online Bible that enables community and collaboration like never before. As we are in a Web 2.0 world and embracing its ideologies, it’s safe to say that all we really want to do is connect, collaborate, and communicate.
YouVersion.com and YouVersion Mobile currently have 31 Bible Translations in 16 different languages!
Try it out and let us know what you think! We are always fascinated by technology and how believers can use it has an effective tool for growth and development in Christ.


Genesis 1:1 ASV - YouVersion.com: Online Bible

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He: Increase // Me: Decrease

Justin Taylor, one of the top Christian Blogger's, references a few brilliant quotes by Tullian Tchividjian. Take a moment to review.


He: Increase // Me: Decrease

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HT: Taylor!

Britt Hume Says, "Tiger Woods Needs Jesus Christ"

In an interview with Bill O'Reiley, Britt Hume expounds on his comment, "Tiger, turn to the Christian faith and you can be a great example for the world."

After serving as managing editor at Fox New for over 30 years, Britt Hume retired over a year ago because he wanted to pursue his faith. Here's an excerpt from an interview he did with The Hollywood Reporter

I certainly want to pursue my faith more ardently than I have done. I’m not claiming it’s impossible to do when you work in this business. I was kind of a nominal Christian for the longest time. When my son died (by suicide in 1998), I came to Christ in a way that was very meaningful to me. If a person is a Christian and tries to face up to the implications of what you say you believe, it’s a pretty big thing. If you do it part time, you’re not really living it.

Although Hume has retired, he still serves as a Political Analyst. While many believe he isn't at the top of his game anymore, one thing is for sure--he's doing his job! Political analysts offer their insight, opinion and views on the topics at hand. As Deion Sanders once said on an NFL pregame show, “This game doesn’t matter. Both teams will be in the playoffs at the end of the season. But we will analyze it anyway. We are analysts. It’s what we do.” In Hume analysis, he encourages Tiger to step away from Buddhism and find true forgiveness in Jesus Christ.

In Buddhism there is no God and personal mortality is followed by reincarnations after better or worse "rebirths" depending upon merit attained in previous lives. Buddhism's goal in the attainment of Nirvana or enlightenment. In Christianity, you do seek forgiveness and redemption from a higher being, something not offered in Buddhism.

Some may disagree with what Britt Hume said, but those who seem to think he was falling off his game overall, Hume's analysis is much on point.

Check out Britt Hume's commentary in an interview on the O'Reiley Factor! http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k_dCB-XUwoc

Consecration--Antoinette Banks

We invite you to partake with us in our consecration for the month of January. We have an updated version of the consecration calendar with new scriptures and prayer focus geared to lead you to a successful consecration. Consecrate yourselves, therefore, and be holy, for I am the Lord your God. Keep my statutes and do them; I am the Lord who sanctifies you. (Leviticus 20:7-8)

What I find so interesting about the above scripture is the sentence structure. The adverb “therefore” modifies the transitive verb “consecrate” which is essentially telling the reader that if you consecrate yourself, if you dedicate yourself for a sacred purpose, if you irrevocably devout yourself to God, you will therefore be ye holy, in pleasing God, for ‘He’ is holy. (Leviticus 11:45) It is our duty to consecrate!

Please click the link below on West A’s website for the consecration calendar.

http://www.westa.org/images/2010consecrationcalendar.pdf