satire and theology©

Thoughts on New Year's Eve (Input requested)

grandfinale@shaw.ca (satire and theology) — Fri, 01 Jan 2010 11:44:00 +0000

New Year's Eve, Niagara Falls, Ontario and New York

The Canucks and the Yankees share fireworks in friendship.

Two of my three favourite countries, The Socialist Paradise of Canada and the Excited States of Americana.

This is December 28th but the article is dated January 1, 2010.

I did a post on this topic in 2006, but it now is 2009.

1990s

In the 1990's for a few years I did the First Night supposedly dry New Year's Eve evening. Yes, the actual events were dry as in non-alcoholic, but between shows many of the people on the streets were hammered. I remember being in downtown Vancouver with a crowd of 100,000-300,000 people, many of them drunk and the scene was questionable enough that one female member of our group that I barely knew grabbed onto my arm for protection. I suppose at the time as I was a developing kingpin this was not too much of a surprise. Oh what fun it was to be downtown with six figures of people, many of them wasted, hardly being able to move, people throwing up, and fights breaking out.

Those kind of good times just are so very difficult to match. And that almost trampled feeling is fantastic.

I did this for about three years and then decided...never again, or at least I have not done it since then. It is questionable to have alcohol free events that can be crashed by people that get their alcohol from somewhere else and come to the event 'influenced.'

2000s

Well, a certain Cousin when he was single that was looking for a good Christian young lady had a New Year's Eve party. He is now a happily married man. He also looks like a male model. Well, after midnight he and I ended being the last two guys around with about six ladies in the hot tub, as he had rented the hot tub.

I of course behaved myself...

The next year, I came to his party again in a different city. This time there was a snow storm and NO ONE showed up. Plus the washroom door ended up locking itself and we had to get into the washroom from the outside window while in the snow with the use of equipment.

Quite a contrast between the two years...from hot tub with ladies to being out in the snow trying to simply avoid using an invisible outhouse.

It looks like I will be going to his party in 2009...

One night I remember being in British Columbia with a bunch of people playing Trivial Pursuit via phone with someone in Ontario.

This would be one funny party to attend and is one of the rare films that I can watch again and again.

The Party 1968:

Dick Clark's Rockin New Year's Eve is a bore as is that dropping ball is Times Square. I know many will disagree, but it seems so similar every year.

The producers could save money in places and use a lot of footage from recent previous New Year's Eve shows. At the end simply show the 2009 to 2010 celebrations.

I mean many of the viewers will be drunk and were drunk the previous years and so would not clue in.

That's me, always trying to save a buck.

Input request

What are some good things to do on New Year's Eve besides a party at a friend's place or at a friend of a friends?

Just about anything should beat Dick Clark's Rotten New Year's Ball or going to bed, which in my mind are both equally intellectually stimulating.

Merry Christmas: A short audio message to readers

grandfinale@shaw.ca (satire and theology) — Mon, 14 Dec 2009 06:34:00 +0000

I like Christmas art.

Brand new. Thanks, Jeff!

Thoughts and Theology

The previous audio posts I presented from filefreak.com no longer have the audio as my account was deleted without my permission. I have set up a new account with filefreak. My audio posts I presented with Shaw prior to filefreak still have the audio but I maxed my space allowed with the Shaw account and therefore looked for another host. I have all my audio presentations and some outtakes saved on disc, but I suppose at this point I will not bother replacing the missing audio on those archived audio posts.

Let us move forward with my short audio post for my readers with the link below...

xmas 09.mp3

Some topics discussed in the audio presentation:

Facebook
Blogger
Blogger Next Blog
Stranger Danger

My previous Christmas posts:

Michelin Man returns (2008)

Michelin Man (2008)

Christmas thoughts and satire (2008)

Blue Santa (2007)

Christmas satire (2007)

Jeff Jenkins of Thoughts and Theology and his fine work from Christmas 2008:

Good one from The Jeff.

The photo below was sent to me today. One of the most amazing I have ever seen, in my opinion.

Telegraph

Photo of the day: 3 June 2008

'A car collides into cyclists participating in a race in Mexico's northern border city of Matamoros. At least one person was killed and 14 injured'

A fascinating photo and horrible crash. The death resulting was tragic and what was the driver of the car thinking?

Terrible

A reply to a critic

Through a Facebook friend it has been brought to my attention that a Facebook friend of this person thought my audio presentation lacked energy and content. This second critic has worked with television and radio. Basically the critique was similar to that of my own friend mentioned in the audio presentation.

1. My presentation is careful as a presentation should be with theology, philosophy or religion and Biblical Studies. I should not rush through it for the sake of energy and enthusiasm. I am also trying to avoid misspeaking. Technical accuracy here is more important than motivational content. This is I realize, is not necessarily the case in all kinds of speaking.

2. No matter what is reasonably done, some/many will never enjoy or appreciate theological presentations. This was the case with my undergrad teaching internship. I have had two internships.

3. Most theology (and related) professors are dry in comparison to what I have been presenting. Believe me my work would pretty much be progressive with the humour and such. Remember I sat through related teaching for seven years of course work. Often a yawwwn. Yes, even for me. This is a reason I make things short by the way!

4. The critic is probably not in a position to judge my theological content by merely having worked in media.

Therefore the critique is largely misplaced, although I agree that much of the problem is with the typical listener.

I have admitted that I am trying to improve in presentation. I do not have a media related degree.

I am not God's gift to theology, women, or radio.;)

Happy Holidays

Vitrectomy and not that procedure it sounds like

grandfinale@shaw.ca (satire and theology) — Sat, 05 Dec 2009 23:45:00 +0000

King's Chapel, Cambridge (photo from trekearth.com)

1. Having exhausted laser eye surgery and after almost four years, I will be pursuing a vitrectomy. This is not a vasectomy which I very much doubt I shall ever pursue.

Being as my 'religious convictions' mean if I ever get married we will try to have 12 children...not! But, I do love the little kiddies. By the way, I am not against career women, so do not get any crazy ideas about me!;) I also greatly respect committed mothers, and if need be, women that do both.

The two laser surgeons I visited in the United States (Dr. Geller of Fort Myers, Florida, and Dr. Johnson of Irvine, California) both destroyed several floaters but my eye is filled with floaters and I have been told that there is no laser in existence that could reach the floaters in the back of my eye, safely.

Two local UBC eye surgeons have offered to do the vitrectomy surgery for me. The vitreous jell is removed and replaced with saline solution.

There is an estimated 40-50% chance of a resulting cataract which would result is a lens replacement which would result in significant improvement in my vision in that eye.

So, in this case a cataract is not to be considered purely in evil terms. It could be considered a problem of evil, but also could ultimately lead to my benefit.

From:

Retina Vitreous Associates of Florida

'Floaters clear on their own almost all of the time. Even patients with persistent floaters usually adjust to them. Their is a small group of patients with sheet like floaters and veils that affect their visual function and do not clear even after waiting over a year. In this situation, it is acceptable to consider vitrectomy surgery. Vitrectomy does carry a risk of retinal detachment, infection and bleeding. So the risk of surgery has to be balanced with the potential benefit. This patient understood that and chose to have surgery and was thrilled with the result.'

From:

Vitrectomy Against Floaters

Please click on image (Psychological issues such as depression because of floaters are very important considerations.)

2. Take this penalty kick six times.

3. Please check out my latest article on thekingpin68.

Augustine and Platonic philosophy

I state...

'Augustine’s use of Plato does not in itself invalidate his understanding of Biblical writings where the two may happen to be in agreement. Augustine (398-399)(1992). From my overall research of Augustine and his free will theodicy, he places much emphasis on Biblical theology as primary Augustine (398-399)(1992). and therefore although it is possible he could read Neoplatonism into his understanding of theodicy, it is also very likely he rejects Neoplatonism where it contradicts his Scriptural findings through in depth study. Augustine (398-399)(1992).'

Rise of the Phoenix and LA LA land

grandfinale@shaw.ca (satire and theology) — Sat, 21 Nov 2009 04:03:00 +0000

Los Angeles

Thanks for reading. This will be a progressive post and this is part one this morning. Please check for more later.

Part One:

I am back from Irvine/Los Angeles. I am in Phoenix. Thanks so much Phil for driving me around, buying me lunch and helping me find the eye clinic and a hotel. I hope next time we shall have more time to associate. God bless.

Dr. Johnson destroyed all the floaters he could see and his laser could reach.

I recommend his services for those with floaters, especially large ones. Thank you Dr. Johnson.

I may pursue a vitrectomy in the future and appreciate very much the advice given to me by Dr. Johnson.

Dr. Johnson

Okay, here is some stereotypical LA LA land. I get on the plane from Phoenix to Los Angeles and my two seatmates are seemingly gay and share a few kisses. I see a blonde woman on the plane that dresses like she is 25 years old, but 25 years old in the 1980s. I think she was at least over 45 years old. I get to an office for an appointment and the receptionist is quite attractive and with breast enlargements. I have dinner and the people beside me are discussing scripts. The building next to my hotel was an office building and not a restaurant, but it had Taco Bell written on it. I reason after research it is the Taco Bell headquarters.

I can only remember eating at Taco Bell once in my life.

I like the Los Angeles area in general terms.

I have also been in three theology/philosophy discussions so far and have mentioned 'vicious regress' twice, which is a regress that does not solve its own problem such as a regress of gods or time (see thekingpin68 blog). Yea it is one of my 'pets' and I gathered much of it from a secular humanist. So you will have difficult time proving I am closed-minded. I live and learn. ;)

In my case, I would assume my blog post has not been read, but I try to get readers.;)

Part Two:

Tonight it was suggested by someone that the New Testament writers were not lying but the oral tradition of these writers was corrupted by exaggeration.

But they meant well, but Jesus was just a man.

My reply:

With thousands of New Testament manuscripts stating the same essential message, there is no evidence of a significant theological corruption from the original historically based message. This presentation took place through oral and then written tradition.

The New Testament martyrs would not seemingly sanely die for a lie unless it was because of a stance of trying to maintain the benefits of things such as money, sex and power. This could be the case with a cult that emphasized such, but Christianity did not. As they were persecuted and sometimes executed by the state, it would make far more sense for many of the Christian leaders to go back to Judaism or other, rather than live the difficult life of a New Testament Christian.

I remain unconvinced, and Christianity remains historically reasonable and not a work of fiction.

Part Three:

As with in 2002, the Phoenix area interests me with its many churches. I see quite a few Lutheran and LDS buildings. There seems to be a relatively strong religious presence, much stronger than in the Vancouver area. I reason that I could potentially move here and find a job teaching theology/philosophy of religion. If not in Arizona then with one of the other States not too far away, or in the South. My Mom now has American citizenship and I will see if this can assist me at all.

Well, today is another day of moving with and for my brother and then I will dress up in my black 'PhD viva' suit again and go to a business meeting with my brother and Mom tonight, once again.

A lot more ladies talk to me in the US than in Canada or the UK...hmmm. This has always been the case seems to me over the years.

By the way, when I come back to BC, I will post on Facebook and Blogger photos of me in my black suit...

I have also been watching a bit of BYU Television.:(

Part Four

I went on a four wheeler for the first time Saturday and rubbed up against a Cactus with my bare arm. Welcome to Arizona. I also got stuck for a short time with another machine (four wheeler) and was shown how to deal with it.

I would need quite a bit of practice to be good at that sport/hobby.

The theology discussions continue. I hope and pray I am doing well.

Part Five: Finale

I am leaving back for BC Wednesday. I have contacted four institutions so far in Arizona concerning work as a professor (Associate/Assistant). I am also willing to work in a surrounding or close state and so that would leave California, Nevada, Utah (Would that not be funny?), Colorado, New Mexico and Texas to consider if I wish to move reasonably close to my family and remain able to assist my Mom that will move down here also. Biola University was suggested to me by a local institution that had no work for me presently and seemingly liked my CV. My Mom, brother, sister-in-law and one niece have all urged me to try and relocate here.

I am not ruling out moving elsewhere, but I will start seeking in this area. I am willing to move away from family as I did in 1999-2001 and my brother and family can therefore take over assisting my Mom.

I can send out CVs in the Greater Vancouver are but here are my thoughts.

The western United States is far more Christianized than the Lower Mainland of BC. I reason there are more career opportunities by far for me in the western USA and the South, if need be.

To be blunt, I am single, and there would be more Christian women to meet here. God willing, I would like to have a family one day. I realize that being a full-time very serious PhD student has very much limited my social life in BC, but my PhD is almost done for good. One time a theologian/pastor spoke at our church and compared a roughly 2% Vancouver church attendance with a roughly 15% American one...telling. Even with the cults and questionable Christian churches it still leaves a lot more Christians here than in Greater Vancouver. I need to face reality. Having lived in the UK, I doubt there are many more Christians there than in Greater Vancouver in regard to average church attendance.

I invite my blogging friends to pass along any potential job opportunities in their area, for example. I also look forward to meeting with some of my blog links/commenters in person, at their church, for example.

I remain committed to visiting friends in the UK even though it is unlikely I will work there. This does not mean I will not apply there as after all, I do have a British passport and almost two earned UK theses degrees. There is also the good possibility of me teaching at two places, in other words relocating temporarily for a summer.

Anyway, these are my hopefully progressive thoughts. God please lead me in Christ.

Russ:) (PHX)

Strange Occurrence 1995/The Horror

grandfinale@shaw.ca (satire and theology) — Tue, 03 Nov 2009 04:53:00 +0000

For my current more academic article please see: esb

1. The following is seemingly the most strange occurrence in my life outside of an episode with exorcism (not of me!) when I was a child where I witnessed someone demonized and the beings were apparently cast out in Jesus' name. This person exorcised was not told they were a demon and so I doubt it was hypnotism as opposed to exorcism and I know key people involved well enough that it was not a staged event.

I am not however, an expert in exorcism or hypnotism.

A professor of mine did do exorcisms and told me that my experience seemed legitimate in light of his experience and the New Testament.

I reason that finite spiritual beings exist Biblically. They do influence people at times, myself included.

At times some are under very heavy demonic influence which could be equated with demonization.

It is the summer of 1995, I had just graduated from Bible College. I wanted to visit Britain and Ireland because I had not been to the United Kingdom since 1976, as a little boy, and I also wanted to see if I could tolerate Britain in the context of potentially doing a PhD there. I returned in 1997 and did a University tour. Both trips took place with my good friend and Blogger commenter Saint Chucklins of Ridge.

Sir Chucklins and I agree that the 1995 trip was an excellent one. My only other trip as fun was in 1976 with the family. My 1997, 2004 (February) and 2004 (December) trips as well as my 2009 trip were mainly business/academic trips with plenty of stress involved. I also lived in Manchester from 1999-2001 and that was very stressful although I made some very good lifelong friends.

I have mentioned this story previously on this blog, but this writing is all new with more detail.

stupid questions

In 1995, Chuckles and I spent a week in London, which is one of my favourite places to spend a week or so in. While on the Tube/London Underground I saw a bearded lady in tears making out with a man that was trying to console her by kissing her. Now, I am making no firm judgment on this woman, or her everlasting destiny, but I have to be honest and state that I felt like I could vomit looking at her. She made a negative physical impression on me.

After our good week in London we kept the tour going and ended up in Birmingham, which at the time, at least, was the second most populated metropolitan area in Britain. Chuck and I were in our hotel rooms and he was shaving while I was watching television. There was a show featuring the Edinburgh International Festival which we viewed personally later in the trip. Chucky was stating that if he did not shave he would look ugly, and I stated that he would not look as bad as that bearded lady. At that point I looked at the television and within a few moments that bearded lady was introduced as a presenter at the Edinburgh International Festival. Bizarre!

The theological lessons?

Pray that one is ready for the unexpected. It is one lesson anyway.

2. As mentioned in blog comments, on Friday we had a small Halloween party here and watched The Last Man on Earth (1964) with Vincent Price. It was a reasonably artistic movie of the horror/suspense/thriller genres, I would give it 4/5, and it did not feature gratuitous violence. I think the four of us that watched it all perhaps pondered on the end times as a result of viewing the film. In the past, especially prior to being an adult, I watched some classic horror/suspense/thriller movies with Vincent Price such as Pit and the Pendulum (1961), The Raven (1963), The Abominable Dr. Phibes (1971), Dr. Phibes Rises Again (1972) and Theatre of Blood (1973). I have no desire to ever watch the Phibes films or Theatre of Blood again as they are too gross, and I have seen the Phibes films twice each. But I have to admit that the Price films do have some artistic merit.

Seems to me Pit and the Pendulum (1961), and The Raven (1963) were quite artistic and not near as gross as the other ones I just mentioned.

I have no stomach or patience for modern 'slasher' films whatsoever.

I reason:

Horror/suspense/thriller films can reasonably show evil and suffering.

These films can show evil and suffering as bad things, which they are.

Films that depend on gratuitous violence can limit their potential audience.

Therefore, the apparent or actual glorification of evil is not needed in these films.

Alnwick Castle, England

Atheistic praxis and should I seek an interview with Oral Roberts University?

grandfinale@shaw.ca (satire and theology) — Fri, 23 Oct 2009 03:34:00 +0000

Christ's Chapel at Oral Roberts University, Tulsa Oklahoma (Looks nice)

1. I have had many major formatting difficulties with this post!

2. I am interviewed at...

examiner.com

3. A dear relative satirically suggests that due to my debt I should pursue a career as a televangelist via a job as a professor at...

oral roberts university

-Would it work for me to work there with my Reformed views?

-Would you support me as a televangelist? I think I have a face for radio.

-I do not know much about the University and I am not presenting or implying any firm opinion.

4. Below are edited thoughts on atheistic praxis from my PhD. Views on my Reformed sovereignty theodicy can be primarily found here:

thekingpin68

Critical/Atheistic Praxis

Praxis is concerned with not merely applying theoretical knowledge, but adding to knowledge in the process of practically applying theory.

These three theodicy (free will, sovereignty and soul-making) view evil as part of the end goal praxis of bringing about a greater good and justifying God, his perfect goodness and plans in the end. C. Robert Mesle has noted these types of views that use greater good arguments make God the author of evil and make evil less than genuine. Mesle (1986: 418). Atheist William Rowe states that not all evil can be used for the greater good and certainly some must be gratuitous. Rowe (1990: 1-3). The greater good argument can always be challenged with good counter-arguments. Rowe (1990: 1-3). Mesle (1986: 418). Although I disagree with the concept of gratuitous evil, I accept Rowe’s point that some evil is inscrutable which is evil that cannot be understood reasonably well by human beings. Rowe (1990: 3). An atheistic (possibly agnostic and deistic as well) praxis concerning the problem of evil could be that life has no deeper meaning or purpose beyond physical death, and that all persons suffer and die with no further meaning to life. Darrow (1932)(1973: 453). Science, although very valuable, does not offer humanity an end directed goal of continued life. Darrow writes the best one can do is basically cling to life on earth as we head toward ‘a common doom.’ Darrow (1932)(1973: 453). An atheistic praxis coming from this type of view could be criticized as negative, but science cannot be primarily sought for support of theodicy, and theodicy should be based on solid religious and philosophical reasoning. In the case of free will and sovereignty perspectives, there is a heavy reliance on Scriptural revelation which is based in history. Hick’s view has an understanding that God could begin to be understood to some degree in metaphorical terms through the writings of a variety of religious traditions. Hick (1993: 126). He takes a Kantian understanding that God could not be affirmed as an actual or possible concept, although God can be assumed as possible. Kant (1788)(1898)(2006: 1). Hick takes this idea of Kant’s and deduces that when it comes to religious doctrine the noumena realm that relates to the phenomena realm may have little in common with resulting phenomena. Hick in Geivett (1993: 230).

In contrast, I reason:

God has revealed self in historical Biblical Scripture.

The infinite God can make self somewhat known to finite creatures.

God regenerates the elect (John 3, Ephesians 1, Romans 8).

Salvific knowledge of God is not primarily theoretical.

Christainity is of reasonable faith and philosophy of religion.

Certainly, an idea behind the writing of my PhD thesis has been to make it clear that blind faith fueled theodicy is not intellectually acceptable. Theodicy should be based on research and reason using and considering a variety of perspectives.

DARROW, CLARENCE (1928)(1973) ‘The Myth of the Soul’, in The Forum, October, in Paul Edwards and Arthur Pap (eds.), A Modern Introduction To Philosophy, New York, The Free Press.

DARROW, CLARENCE (1932)(1973) ‘The Delusion of Design and Purpose’, in The Story of My Life, October, in Paul Edwards and Arthur Pap (eds.), A Modern Introduction To Philosophy, New York, The Free Press.

HICK, JOHN (1993) ‘Afterword’ in GEIVETT, R. DOUGLAS (1993) Evil and the Evidence for God, Philadelphia, Temple University Press.

HICK, JOHN (1993) The Metaphor of God Incarnate, Louisville, Kentucky, John Know Press.

KANT, IMMANUEL (1788)(1898)(2006) The Critique of Practical Reason, Translated by Thomas Kingsmill Abbott, London, Longmans, Green, and Co.

MESLE, C. ROBERT (1986) ‘The Problem of Genuine Evil: A Critique of John Hick’s Theodicy’, in The Journal of Religion, Volume 66, Number 4, pp. 412-430. October, Chicago, University of Chicago Press.

PHILLIPS, D.Z. (2005) The Problem of Evil and the Problem of God, Fortress Press, Minneapolis.

ROWE, WILLIAM L. (1990) ‘The Problem of Evil and Some Varieties of Atheism’, in Adams and Adams (eds.), The Problem of Evil, Oxford, Oxford University Press.

World religions and cultural Christianity

grandfinale@shaw.ca (satire and theology) — Mon, 05 Oct 2009 09:30:00 +0000

Greece-Corfu (photo from trekearth.com)

I asked for permission to use these statistics a few years ago and was told I could as long as I cite the sources. This is something a few bloggers need to learn to attempt to follow as much as possible...but I have no one I associate with in mind.

I post this information as I find it useful to consider from time to time. I am planning on providing comments in the comments section.

From:

Adherents.com: World Religions

'(Sizes shown are approximate estimates, and are here mainly for the purpose of ordering the groups, not providing a definitive number. This list is sociological/statistical in perspective.)

A major source for these estimates is the detailed country-by-country analysis done by David B. Barrett's religious statistics organization, whose data are published in the Encyclopedia Britannica (including annual updates and yearbooks) and also in the World Christian Encyclopedia (the latest edition of which - published in 2001 - has been consulted). Hundreds of additional sources providing more thorough and detailed research about individual religious groups have also been consulted.'

Major Religions of the World
Ranked by Number of Adherents

1.Christianity: 2.1 billion

2.Islam: 1.5 billion

3.Secular/Nonreligious/Agnostic/Atheist: 1.1 billion

4.Hinduism: 900 million

5.Chinese traditional religion: 394 million

6.Buddhism: 376 million

7.primal-indigenous: 300 million

8.African Traditional & Diasporic: 100 million

9.Sikhism: 23 million

10.Juche: 19 million

11.Spiritism: 15 million

12.Judaism: 14 million

13.Baha'i: 7 million

14.Jainism: 4.2 million

15.Shinto: 4 million

16.Cao Dai: 4 million

17.Zoroastrianism: 2.6 million

18.Tenrikyo: 2 million

19.Neo-Paganism: 1 million

20.Unitarian-Universalism: 800 thousand

21.Rastafarianism: 600 thousand

22.Scientology: 500 thousand

Adherents.com: Branches of 'cultural Christianity'

Cultural Christianity

Catholic 1,050,000,000

Orthodox/Eastern Christian 240,000,000

African indigenous sects (AICs) 110,000,000

Pentecostal 105,000,000

Reformed/Presbyterian/Congregational/United 75,000,000

Anglican 73,000,000

Baptist 70,000,000

Methodist 70,000,000

Lutheran 64,000,000

Jehovah's Witnesses 14,800,000

Adventist 12,000,000

Latter Day Saints 12,500,000

Apostolic/New Apostolic 10,000,000

Stone-Campbell ("Restoration Movement") 5,400,000

New Thought (Unity, Christian Science, etc.) 1,500,000

Brethren (incl. Plymouth) 1,500,000

Mennonite 1,250,000

Friends (Quakers) 300,000

'This page copyright © 2005 by Adherents.com. Webpage created February 1999. Last updated 28 October 2005.'

From when I was a toddler:

If I ever start looking like that guy I will get hair plugs, or I will go bald! That act always bugged me.

Perhaps if he had his head Shake n' Baked some hair would regrow?

Laughable lip-sync.;)

Blackberry photos. These ones are from the village I live in.

The most valuable sports teams (satirical look)

grandfinale@shaw.ca (satire and theology) — Tue, 22 Sep 2009 20:00:00 +0000

From:

Forbes

'No. 1 Manchester United

European Football

$1.8 billion

An annual powerhouse with a true global brand, Man-U fetched the highest price ever for a sports franchise when Malcolm Glazier forked over $1.45 billion for it in 2005.
Source: Forbes Sports Valuations'

I call myself a fan. From 1999-2001 I had home membership as I lived in Manchester. Thanks to my very good buddy Si, I managed to see United this year once again on my visit.

United has an excellent logo.

No offence to Vancouver Canucks fans, but it has been such a pleasure following United since 1999 with the two European Championships in that time and the several Premiership titles, I could not see myself ever getting too serious about the Vangoober (what it satirically sounded like when the NBA commissioner would pronounce Vancouver) Canucks and their hopefully successful quest to be a championship team...at least once, once day. Somewhere, over the rainbow.

'No. 2 Dallas Cowboys

Football

$1.6 billion

Owner Jerry Jones smartly broke away from the NFL merchandising collaboration several years ago, leaving the Cowboys to run their own league-leading operation. A new state-of-the-art stadium awaits for 2009, with a Personal Seat License (PSL) plan that could bring in upwards of $700 million. The rough economy--a naming rights deal still hasn't been done--may scale back expectations. But only so much.'

I dedicate this section to my Cowboy fan, virtual friend and excellent guy Wade at:

Cowboy Wade

Wade, I realize you are a very busy man with work, procreation and such, but here is your chance to tell us in comments why the Cowboys are Number 2. Please do my friend.

Hint, I have never seen the Cowboys play, but would like to.:)

'No. 3 Washington Redskins

Football

$1.5 billion

Since taking over in 1999, owner Dan Snyder has had mixed results on the field. But he's turned the Redskins into the NFL's leading revenue machine through heavy marketing and by selling the naming rights to Jack Kent Cooke Stadium to FedEx. The stadium has sold out every game during its 12-year history.'

Go Washington Native Americans, go!

I have not seen them play live.

'No. 4 New England Patriots

Football

$1.32 billion

New England's value has roughly tripled since 2000, following three Super Bowl titles and a 97-31 record over the past eight years. Seven-year-old Gillette Stadium includes 6,000 club seats and 87 luxury boxes.'

An undefeated season and then they lose the Super Bowl...OUCH! That is a kick in the patriots.

Very cool logo, in my opinion.

I have not seen them play live.

'No. 5 New York Yankees

Baseball

$1.3 billion

Baseball's only billion dollar club benefits from its own cable network, huge market and storied history. No wonder the Yankees have made the only real noise around the league this winter, throwing more than $400 million at three premium free agents. The tight economy may have the team scrambling to sell the last few luxury boxes at the new Yankee Stadium for 2009, but expect the place to be a revenue machine over the long haul.'

I saw the Yankees live at the Bronx in 2002 and my English friend Robin wanted to leave early. Like hell!

I am sorry that New York did not have a major cricket club.

'No. 6 Real Madrid

European Football

$1.29 billion

A winner of nine European Championship Cups, Real Madrid rakes in close to half a billion dollars in annual revenue. Its 62-year-old stadium--Santiago Bernabéu--has been heavily renovated over the years, with capacity trimmed from a peak of 120,000 to 80,000. Like American baseball, European soccer is moving to a model that emphasizes revenue per seat over maximum attendance.'

I still need to see Real Madrid. Someone please invite me! Are there any English speaking theology professor jobs in the Madrid area?

'No. 7 Arsenal

European Football

$1.2 billion

The club founded in 1886 took in $329 million in revenue last year. Three-year-old Emirates Stadium, which seats over 60,000, includes 7,139 club level seats sold in one to four year licenses and over 150 boxes where seats start at $87,000 annually (65,000 euros). The naming rights deal with Emirate Airlines is worth $133 million (100 million euros) over eight years.'

I dedicate this section to Simon.

I had away membership to Arsenal (1999-2001) thanks to my good friend Simon. Simon, I know you are a busy cat, but this is your chance to light up the comments on Arsenal!

Simon, here is your opportunity to state Arsenal's case over the one that we do not dare mention...at Number One. I am a fan of Arsenal and hope for better things ahead.

'No. 8 New York Giants

Football

$1.18 billion

No Super Bowl title this year, but personal seat license money is rolling in for the 2010 opening of the Giants' new stadium. Even with an NFL model that has the TV loot shared equally around the league, a big market has its advantages. The Giants' season-ticket waiting list is 25 years.'

I have not seen the Giants or Jets, but the new stadium sounds fascinating. But, I thought the New York Giants moved to San Francisco decades ago.

The Giants do have a cool look, admittedly.

'No. 9 New York Jets

Football

$1.17 billion

Call them "Giants Lite." The Jets' have everything their stadium mates do, only with a little less history and brand strength.'

I thought the Jets left Winnipeg...oh well. The Jets do look cool in green.

If the Giants and Jets merged could the Jolly Green Giant be the logo? For a fee, of course.

'No. 10 Houston Texans

Football

$1.17 billion

Surprised by this dark horse? Don't be. The 7-year-old franchise with a 46-72 record has the NFL's richest naming rights deal, pulling in $300 million from Reliant Stadium.'

So, Wade, I would like to see these guys too. Should we expect a 'Supa Bo' soon?

Hey, how come there are no NHL teams here?;) I thought NHL hockey was the 'best' and 'most exciting' sport...oh well. One thing I respect about the NFL is the desire to return teams to cities that lost a franchise.

So, I have viewed Manchester United, New York Yankees, and Arsenal live. Only three of the current top ten. I live an impoverished life.

Best of religious album covers

grandfinale@shaw.ca (satire and theology) — Tue, 01 Sep 2009 07:01:00 +0000

Notre Dame, France

When this site was rather new I did three articles with religious album covers. Here is a best of version for those of you who would not have read and commented on the originals.

I spent quite a few hours on these three articles and would like more people to see the best sections and that is a major reason I present these again with some changes.

Russ:)

New addition -- see under "Satan is Real" for audio clip.

I shall take a satirical look at some religious album covers.

Mahavishnu Orchestra with John Mclaughlin is presently one of my top two favourite recording artists of all time. This pre-Mahavishnu Orchestra album from 1970 features McLaughlin with what appears to a photograph of his now late Indian guru Sri Chinmoy. The person in the photograph may be in an altered state of consciousness. When I first saw this album cover in a record store I thought that it was creepy, and hardly a good advertisement for any music album or religious movement, but most fans of Mclaughlin's music probably are not too concerned with what is on the cover. In the religious and not musical context, a smile or normal pose would be good, but the 'out of it' altered state of consciousness look may attract some persons already heavily interested in Hinduism and related religions, and/or may attract 'pot heads' and 'druggies', but it probably will not cause positive religious thoughts in most persons. This by the way, in my view, is not bad since I believe that Biblical Christianity is the true religious faith and philosophy in regard to the nature of God and salvation, and not Hinduism and related religions.

Sure Mike, you are using God given power, and I admit that I do not know the point of your album cover. There are Christians and non-Christians that can smash bricks. In a sense from a Christian perspective, anyone that can break bricks is using God given power, as God is the creator of all things.

I agree that Satan is real, but he is spirit and not a cartoon character. There is also debate among Biblical scholars and theologians on whether or not hell has literal flames, although it has literal punishment.

That is a funny cover as the dudes are in hell, but are still well dressed in a suit and tie. Had they just been out knocking on doors, or were they just visiting?

Intro to the song Satan Is Real

It is good to see this type of choir. But in my opinion, it is in bad taste to show a person injecting himself or herself on the front cover of the album!

With the use of the terms 'touch him' the cover is likely referring to the concept of having fellowship with God and Christ. But in today's society, a satirical, homosexual type of interpretation could be made. My Mom does not understand why anyone would view this cover as funny. I suppose this may show a difference in how generations look at the use of certain terms.

It is good at times to have persons think about death, the afterlife and God's judgment and salvation for those in Christ. However, in my view, very few persons would want to purchase these album covers that are in bad taste. The second cover made me laugh.

Flying missiles and atomic bombs? This is a very presumptuous cover concerning the Second Advent. There is much figurative language used and interpretations should be made carefully. The cover to me seems sensationalistic.

Is the idea of Satan being paralyzed found in Scripture? Jesus told Satan to leave him in Matthew 4: 10-11, but Satan presently is still active it appears from Scripture.

Korla Pandit was a famous pianist and I am not criticizing him as an artist, but that album cover is creepy, and especially for a Christmas album. To me, Mr. Pandit with the turban in that photo looks like a wax figure of Mr. Pandit. The wax figure of Mr. Pandit for some reason reminds me of a few world religions class trips to Hindu and Hare Krishna temples. So, the thought that comes to mind is that some creepy type of eastern religious figurine is sitting behind a piano peddling a Christmas album. Merry Christmas everyone, and Hare Krishna, have a Krishna Christmas you hairy Christians. Hmm, that cover would sell a lot of albums in today’s market, and what a wonderful marketing ploy. Perhaps, Mr. Pandit actually was off that day and the figurine was a cheaper stand in.

Reverend Falwell from what I have gathered was a godly man, and I respected him. However that album cover with the words Feudin’, Fussin’ and Frettin', will only reinforce the notion by some within and outside of the Christian Church, that southern American fundamentalists are ignorant and uneducated. From my experience with emailing denominations for my questionnaire, I found that many southern American fundamentalist leaders are educated with Master’s and Doctorate degrees and have knowledge, even if some of their views are too extreme or not necessarily Biblical in the opinion of many in the Christian Church. I can picture some secular critic looking at that album cover and thinking that fundamentalist Christians are a bunch of backwards, morons. In a sense, album covers such as this one perhaps just reinforce in some secular minds the mistaken notion that Biblical Christianity is so ridiculous that it does not need to be seriously, intellectually, examined.

Hmm, I can just deduce that some secular critic will reason that fundamentalists cannot count.

Felix looks like he will cane anyone that requests the wrong song! Man, someone did not do a very good marketing job with this album. Perhaps it should read Felix A Lorenz Jr will punish you upon request.

A very nice instrumental

When religious leaders know they are right about God (non-exhaustive thoughts)

grandfinale@shaw.ca (satire and theology) — Thu, 20 Aug 2009 08:34:00 +0000

Haleiwa Harbor, Hawaii (photo from trekearth.com)

I have been very busy with PhD revisions, but here are some thoughts.

A related and recent more academic article on my other blog.

thekingpin68 post

Religious leaders often claim to know God is true within their philosophical religious understanding. Within many philosophically questionable movements there are very strong appeals to subjective experience and feelings and supposed revelation, physical and spiritual.

How is God known?

My argument.

1. Philosophically, it can be reasoned there is a first cause. This avoids a vicious regress of causes for which there is no solution.

BLACKBURN, S. (1996) ‘Regress’, in Oxford Dictionary of Philosophy,Oxford, Oxford University Press.

This can be reasoned without the Bible/Scripture.

2. The first cause can be equated with God.

This can also be reasoned without the Bible/Scripture.

3. God presents self in the Bible/Scripture. God existed prior to creation (matter) in Genesis 1. God existed prior to the creation of finite angelic beings or any other possible unknown finite beings. God is all that existed prior to other. Therefore God is eternal and infinite. God is spirit as in John 4: 24. God can reveal himself empirically as in walking in the garden of Eden in Genesis 3: 8, to Moses as a blazing fire in a bush in Exodus 3: 2, and with Christ. God is revealing himself empirically in a naturally limited sense.

God's physical revelation within a Scriptural revelation, and all Scriptural revelation (spiritual) is intellectually reasonable. I am NOT STATING that this means that God must pass intellectual scrutiny as in Enlightenment era and beyond thinking. I am stating that divine revelation will be intellectual reasonable within reality. Adam and Eve had very good intellectual reasons to believe that the God they empirically viewed was the creator and was not for example, the devil, an alien, or another finite being. God demonstrated to them his power over reality in Genesis 1-3. Moses could see that God could set the bush ablaze and yet it would not burn (Exodus 3: 2). Moses too saw the God could overcome the Egyptians and their sorcerers in Exodus 7-12. Christ of course verified his claims to be eternal and therefore God (John 8: 58) by his miracles and most importantly his resurrection documented at the end of each of the four gospels. Philosophically it is very likely that only God the creator would have ultimate power over life and death.

Human beings are finite and therefore cannot completely comprehend the infinite God. The finite human understanding of God is very limited, and is also tainted by sin (Romans 1-5). God regenerates those (John 3) he chooses (Ephesians 1 and Romans 8) in a way that has God moulding and changing persons without coercing or forcing persons to believe. Persons are saved by grace through faith as a gift of God (Ephesians 2). Persons are indwelled and at times filled (Acts) with the Holy Spirit. This will suffice for initial salvation and citizenship in the Kingdom of God which will culminate with resurrection.

As noted in several posts:

The Cambridge Dictionary of Philosophy. Peter D. Klein describes the Cartesian account of certainty as being that a proposition is true if there are no legitimate grounds whatsoever for doubting it. I favour the similar idea that a proposition is certain if there are no counter propositions that are superior. Therefore in regard to philosophical religious claims such as the historical Scripture inspired by God, the atoning work of Christ, the resurrection, and everlasting life, these things could be viewed as certain provided there are no legitimate counter arguments that are superior. I reason that evidence shows Christianity is philosophically certain in this sense.

KLEIN, PETER D. (1996) ‘Certainty’, in Robert Audi, (ed), The Cambridge Dictionary of Philosophy, Cambridge, Cambridge University Press.

Conclusion

Non-exhaustively, in general terms, within philosophical religion, this is how God can be legitimately known both intellectually and spiritually.

Two silly falls.

From

Explanation

'Please understand. This is a hoax. It didn't happen. Ultimately, it's an ad for Microsoft Germany. Still, it is awfully clever. Heck, some commentators out there on the Net are suggesting it could be one of the greatest fakes in the history of the World Wide Web...

How this excellent production came together can be boiled down to something like this -- a stuntman starts down the slide, but a rope keeps him from going too far, the thing that's airborne isn't a person, but is instead animation, and the principal character ended up in the pool by dropping off a small ramp. Piece it seamlessly together, and there you go.'

Magic Island, Hawaii (photo from trekearth.com)

Fiji (photo from trekearth.com)

The problem of evil and justice for non-Christians

grandfinale@shaw.ca (satire and theology) — Sun, 02 Aug 2009 02:49:00 +0000

Lookout Mountain, Chattanooga, Tennessee

I would like to go there and ride the cable car.

Thanks for reading. First of all, the expense of this TOTALLY FREE BLOG is getting to be too much. And so here are a couple of advertisements. Thanks to Chucky for the assistance.

Depressed...here is some treatment.

lonelymn.mp3

Chucky needs cash!

Bobby Buff has to go to bed soon and rest his 'buff bod.'

friday edit.mp3

I have been working on the issue of the problem of evil and non-Christians within my PhD revisions. Here is some of my reasoning.

John Calvin points out that preaching and teaching the word of God impacts a person to believe in Christ.[1] The Holy Spirit works through preaching to impact a person,[2] that if saved does not eventually believe and work for Christ through primarily human ‘wisdom’,[3] or by ‘chance.’[4] The gospel is only ‘granted to a few without human aid’[5] and most will believe through the assistance of some sort of human agency.[6] I therefore see my thesis work as a human means[7] by which the Christian message through a Reformed lens can be presented.[8]

Since I reason a sovereignty perspective is the most workable and likely theodicy approach,[9] I am presenting it to those outside of the Church in the hope that they will be impacted. This gospel associated theodicy view allows for the possibility of forgiveness of sins within the atonement for persons[10] and for persons to experience the ultimate justice of God’s culminated Kingdom.[11] Bloesch explains that in the context of atonement and justice[12] with God’s holiness he forgives and forbears and demonstrates his love.[13] There is within my theodicy concepts of ultimate justice[14] and deliverance from the problem of evil and its results,[15] but as a Christian scholar attempting to be as accurate in understanding as possible, I must include the concept that sin must first be atoned for in Christ[16] before a person can experience the benefits of a culminated Kingdom free from evil and suffering.[17] G.C. Berkouwer explains that ‘Man[18] is-even when alienated from God-not alone.’ God has still gifted fallen humanity and there is a possible limitation to human corruption, that being the grace of Christ and his words and work. God still has the power and opportunity to save persons, and humanly speaking persons have an opportunity to know Christ in conversion.[19]

[1] Calvin (1543)(1996: 34).
[2] Calvin (1543)(1996: 34).
[3] Calvin (1543)(1996: 34).
[4] Calvin (1543)(1996: 34).
[5] Calvin (1543)(1996: 34).
[6] Calvin (1543)(1996: 34).
[7] Calvin (1543)(1996: 34).
[8] I also present my views on the problem of evil at Church and with believers and non-believers alike on Blogger and Facebook.
[9] But not the only approach with some good and reasonable points, as there are valuable points from non-Reformed theists and atheists within this work.
[10] Green (1971: iii). Whale (1958: 81).
[11] Mounce explains that the Great White Throne judgment of Revelation 20 is not an arbitrary judgment of God but is based on the works of each person. Mounce (1990: 365-366). It is sign of the ultimate justice of God for all persons.
[12] Bloesch (1987: 97).
[13] Bloesch (1987: 97).
[14] Mounce (1990: 365-366).
[15] Feinberg (1994: 141). Moltmann (1993: 178). Mounce (1990: 372).
[16] Green (1971: iii). Whale (1958: 81). On this matter I do not see myself as a judge of those outside of Christ, but rather as one reporting within the best of my ability, by the guidance of the Holy Spirit, what Scripture states about human sin and salvation.
[17] Sin, death and suffering will not exist in the culminated Kingdom. Mounce (1990: 372).
[18] I prefer the term humankind.
[19] Berkouwer (1962: 183-193). Within a compatibilistic framework.

BERKOUWER, G.C. (1962) Man: The Image of God, Grand Rapids, W.M.B. Eerdmans Publishing Company.

BLOESCH, DONALD G. (1987) Freedom for Obedience, San Francisco, Harper and Rowe Publishers.

CALVIN, JOHN (1543)(1996) The Bondage and Liberation of the Will, Translated by G.I. Davies, Grand Rapids, Baker Book House.

FEINBERG, JOHN.S. (1994) The Many Faces of Evil, Grand Rapids, Zondervan Publishing House.

GREEN, JAY (1971) Five Points of Calvinism, ‘Forward’, Grand Rapids, Sovereign Grace Publishers.

MOLTMANN, JÜRGEN (1993) The Crucified God, Minneapolis, Fortress Press.

MOUNCE, ROBERT H. (1990) The Book of Revelation, Grand Rapids, William B. Eerdmans Publishing Company.

WHALE, J.S. (1958) Christian Doctrine, Glasgow, Fontana Books.

Views on blogging

grandfinale@shaw.ca (satire and theology) — Sun, 19 Jul 2009 23:00:00 +0000

Kremaston Lake, Greece (photo from trekearth.com)

I hope you like my new blog template, a twin of thekingpin68 template, but with different colours. If you do not like it, go ahead 'break my heart' and tell me in comments, if you care.

My Mom told me it makes no difference as far as content.

Within my short audio post I discuss my blogging rationale and philosophy, which includes perspectives on career, ministry and life.

It may be a bit controversial, but I am trying to be at peace with others, especially those in the Church, as much as possible.

I am not in any ongoing conflict!

Comments appreciated.

views on blogging.mp3

This guy should drive in Vancouver.

I saw this classic on David's blog No More Darkness, thanks David.

Aerides sunset, Greece (photo from trekearth.com)

Short audio presentation on crazy cults on my birthday

grandfinale@shaw.ca (satire and theology) — Mon, 06 Jul 2009 22:46:00 +0000

My friend Darren Morrey from first album

If you like it, he now has a second album as well.

The following is my short, serious and satirical presentation. I had to switch to a new online audio host as Shaw states I am over my storage limit. That is not much of a limit. Not even ten audio articles are hosted!

In my opinion audio storage, at least with MP3s, should be provided to some extent by Blogger. Audio presentation is an aspect of blogging.

I hope these work and please be patient. I finally had them work for me. They are not long.

You may have to turn up your volume. I tried to reasonably increase recording levels.

crazy cults 1.mp3

crazy cults 2.mp3

From:

http://www.livescience.com/strangenews/top-10-crazy-cults.html

ANKERBERG, JOHN AND JOHN WELDON (1999) Encyclopedia of Cults and New Religions, Eugene, Oregon, Harvest House Publishers.

MARTIN, WALTER (1965)(1997) The Kingdom of The Cults, Minneapolis, Bethany House Publishers.

A more academic presentation from my other theology blog:

thekingpin68: hell

Additional:

Aimee Semple McPherson, the founder of the Foursqaure Church. I am not stating she was cultic or her church was or is cultic. But to me her outfit was weird and over the top.

I realize the Foursquare Church is Christian.

I find this presentation too theatrical. My religious skepticism is ignited.

From:

womenshistory

'Aimee Semple McPherson was the first famous Pentecostal evangelist, seeking publicity to broaden the audience for her religious message, using modern technology (including the automobile and radio) -- truly a pioneer in religious history. The Foursquare Gospel Church which she founded is now a movement with more than two million members around the world. But most people know her name mainly for an infamous kidnapping scandal.

Aimee Semple McPherson disappeared in May 1926. At first Aimee Semple McPherson was presumed drowned. When she reappeared she claimed to have been kidnapped. Many questioned the kidnapping story; gossip had her "shacked up" in a romantic "love nest," though a court case was dropped for lack of evidence...."

'In May 1926, Aimee Semple McPherson went for a swim in the ocean, accompanied by her secretary who stayed on the shore -- and Aimee disappeared. Her followers and her mother mourned her death while newspapers featured the continuing search and rumors of sightings -- until June 23, when Aimee reappeared in Mexico with a story of kidnapping and captivity a few days after her mother received a ransom note that threatened that Aimee would be sold into "white slavery" if the half million dollar ransom was not paid.

Kenneth G. Ormiston, who was a radio operator for the Temple, disappeared at the same time, leading to suspicion that she had not been kidnapped but had instead spent the month in a romantic hideaway. There had been gossip about her relationship with him before the disappearance, and his wife had moved back to Australia, claiming her husband was involved with McPherson. There were reports that a woman who looked like Aimee Semple McPherson had been seen in a resort town with Ormiston during McPherson's disappearance. Suspicion led to a grand jury investigation and charges of perjury and manufacturing evidence against McPherson and Ormiston, but the charges were dropped the next year without explanation.

Her ministry continued. If anything, her celebrity was greater. Within the church, there were some repercussions to the suspicions and scandal: Aimee's mother even split from her.

Aimee Semple McPherson married again in 1931. David Hutton, ten years her junior and a member of Angelus Temple, filed for divorce in 1933 and it was granted in 1934. Legal disputes and financial difficulty marked the next years of the church's history. McPherson continued to lead the church's many activities, including her radio talks and her preaching, and the financial difficulties were largely overcome by the 1940s.

In 1944, Aimee Semple McPherson died of an overdose of sedatives. The overdose was pronounced accidental, complicated by kidney problems, though many suspected suicide.'

Okay, I realize that this is extremely subjective, but here are two instrumental tracks that make me think of cults when I hear them.

Why?

Well, with Bakerman I originally heard it in the context of a YouTube video mocking Benny Hinn, and now when I hear it I think of religions such a the Latter-Day Saints and the Jehovah's Witnesses that have been historically trying to please God through good works and religious practice and have some fancy buildings.

With Cosmic Strut, it is from Mahavishnu Orchestra and makes me think of certain followers of Eastern religions trying to jump around in order to better know God.

Now perhaps because this is so subjective you will completely or largely disagree with my interpretations of these fine instrumentals. Fine.:) Notice there are no citations here...this is all very debatable.;)

FIFA: Confederations Cup Champions

grandfinale@shaw.ca (satire and theology) — Mon, 29 Jun 2009 01:10:00 +0000

2009 Brazil 3-2 United States
2005 Brazil 4-1 Argentina
2003 France 1-0 Cameroon (et)
2001 France 1-0 Japan
1999 Mexico 4-3 Brazil
1997 Brazil 6-0 Australia

King Fahd Cup

1995 Denmark 2-0 Argentina
1992 Argentina 3-1 Saudi Arabia

Short comments on a finite God

grandfinale@shaw.ca (satire and theology) — Thu, 18 Jun 2009 00:02:00 +0000

An aerial view of Dublin, Ireland. I have done the bus tour of the city and I would highly recommend it. It seemed like a very clean and historical city. I wish they had an English Premier League club there in order to have another reason to visit.

I am very busy with PhD revisions, but I appreciate the comments for a break.

Short comments on a finite God, based on my current twenty plus PhD pages of reviewing mainly non-traditional views on the omnipotence of God.

An infinite eternal God[1] can be understood as the first cause not needing a cause.[2] A finite deity, although admittedly logically possible, requires further explanation.[3] If the being is not revealed through Scriptural revelation,[4] it is a God of primarily philosophical speculation and requires further elaboration on the part of one in regard to, for instance, why humanity should believe in and follow this type of deity, assuming that there is not a greater, infinite, eternal first cause that would necessarily[5] exist behind that being.

My conclusion is that a finite God is very unlikely to exist.

[1] The essence of God himself is eternal, he is before time, above time and after time. Barth (1932-1968: 67). God is ‘infinite spirit’ and eternal. Shedd (1874-1890)(1980: 152). God is eternal and without beginning or end. Bavinck (1918)(2006: 148 Volume 2). God is eternal and infinite, he is eternal now, ‘the permanent now’ and eternity results from his infinity. Weber (1955)(1981: 455). God has eternal existence as a ‘just and wise person.’ Frame (2002: 388).
[2] God’s essence is eternal and necessary (logically must exist) , and the finite universe is temporal and contingent (not necessary). Shedd (1874-1890)(1980: 191). God as a necessary being is therefore the cause of contingent creation. Frame reasons God is the creator and the Lord of the beginning of history. This occurs within his eternal plans. Frame (2002: 389). Within this view God is the implied first cause that exists necessarily prior to everything else. Pojman (1996: 596).
[3] Hypothetically, humanity and the universe could have been created by a finite God that was created by another cause.
[4] In contrast to God in the Hebrew Bible, God in the New Testament and Allah in the Qur'an.
[5] Shedd (1874-1890)(1980: 191). Pojman (1996: 596).

Two members of our local USL soccer club have a little fight on the field.

Please go to 8 minute mark.

http://www.whitecapsfc.com/archive/feature06150901.aspx

'Vancouver Whitecaps FC announce that the club have fined and suspended defender Wesley Charles and striker Charles Gbeke, as a result of their unsportsmanlike behaviour during the Whitecaps home match versus Miami FC Blues last Friday evening.

On Monday, both Charles and Gbeke received monetary fines for an undisclosed amount from the club before each player was handed a one-match suspension from the United Soccer Leagues, as well as an additional one-match suspension from the club on Tuesday.'

I see a Whitecaps game every year or so generally. Sometimes fights break out in non-combat sports but it is usually between players on opposing teams. However, when two players on the same team fight it is humourous but also not a good public demonstration of teamwork.

Zidane, incredible last major goal (I am seeing him play in Vancouver, July 4)

Next...

http://www.koco.com/news/19756522/detail.html

Trooper confronts paramedic.

Perhaps the trooper was overaggresive and should have let the initial incident pass, but if I am riding in the back of the ambulance, I do not get out and confront a state trooper.

The paramedic is a big intimidating guy.

Superrabbit

Super hungry (Thanks Mom)

I saw this on Granville Island in a shop.

Will this make me a happier theological blogger?

grandfinale@shaw.ca (satire and theology) — Tue, 02 Jun 2009 00:39:00 +0000

Below is my new rather pricey 'toy'. Snoring is not the primary issue for me but obstructive sleep apnea and related fatigue and metabolism problems are.

From

klearway

'Klearway™ is a fully-adjustable oral appliance used for the treatment or snoring and mild to moderate Obstructive Sleep Apnea. Fabricated of thermoactive acrylic, KlearwayTM becomes pliable for easy insertion and confirms securely to the dentition for an excellent fit while significantly decreasing soft tissue and tooth discomfort. Small increments of forward lower jaw advancement are initiated by the patient under the direction of a dentist and this helps avoid rapid jaw movements that can cause significant patient discomfort. Once warmed under hot water and inserted, the acrylic resin hardens as it cools to body temperature and firmly affixes itself to both arches. Lateral and vertical jaw movement is permitted which enables the patent to yawn, swallow, and drink water without dislodging the appliance.
THE KLEARWAY™ APPLIANCE FOR THE TREATMENT OF SNORING AND OBSTRUCTIVE SLEEP APNEA'

I have had my tonsils and uvula removed with the UPPP surgery.

From

uppp

'The most common surgery for sleep apnea is the uvulopalatopharyngoplasty, or UPPP procedure, which is intended to enlarge the airway by removing or shortening the uvula and removing the tonsils and adenoids...'

I have had nasal reconstruction and tip reduction.

I have used CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) for a year, and will never use it again.

Anyone want to buy an almost brand new CPAP machine in excellent condition?

I just could never enjoy that suffocating feeling.

'You've lost that suffocating' feeling, Whoa, that suffocating' feeling, You've lost that suffocating' feeling, Now it's gone...gone...gone...wooooooh.'

The main purpose of my Klearway jaw appliance is to move my jaw forward at night.

But since it was so expensive, if you have any reasonable and clean secondary purpose, preferably satirical and humourous, please comment.

1. I reason I could use it as a martial arts mouthguard if I am ever attacked on the streets of Maple Ditch while going for a walk.

2. I could dress up with the Klearway device and go out on Halloween as some kind of ridiculous vampire, or as a horrified dental patient.

3.I could learn how to be a ventriloquist, and use the Klearway device in some kind of creepy show on You Tube.

Theological satire and my comments

Good point, Snoopy. I am a child of God first and foremost. I may learn a lot and pray God will guide me in the truth, but I always need to remain open-minded.

Yes, please provide me with some blog traffic and comments. Cheers. A near mint copy of Silver Surfer #4 (1969) would be nice as well. Thanks.;)

Hmm, how twenty-first century in thought. What is next, will you direct your prayers toward the doll?

This lady needs some theological training and spiritual guidance. May I suggest reading your Bible and getting a hold of some good lexicons and commentaries. Do not do your theology from the magazines that have horoscopes at the check out lines.

I would like to drop atheists and agnostics from being ministers in Christian churches.

Yes, please check out my blogs satire and theology and thekingpin68 while you are at it. I dare you to leave a comment during the service. Even I would not do that!

They follow Christ as long as they can reinterpret him when necessary to maintain their worldview and religious philosophy. Lord forbid they are willing to take a contextual look at Scripture and allow God to speak for himself through his chosen scribes.

Excellent. Ephesians 2: 8-10:

8 For by grace you have been saved through faith; and that not of yourselves, it is the gift of God; 9 not as a result of works, that no one should boast. 10 For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them (Ephesians 2:8-10, NASB).

If you would like a more academic theological article please click on thekingpin68 on the right side of the blog. I do write academic articles on this blog as well sometimes and both blogs feature philosophical theology.

Additional:

Friday funnies, thanks Mom.

Cowboy gets flattened.

Gordon Ramsay gets in trouble in Australia
I personally reason he is likely a very good chef.

Jeff sent me some pictures of human contact with a Great White shark. Thanks, Jeff.

This is one that has been on the web since 2001.

hoax

US military burn Bibles/bodybuilders flee

grandfinale@shaw.ca (satire and theology) — Thu, 21 May 2009 00:51:00 +0000

Leuther, Germany (photo from trekearth.com)

Bibles burned by United States military

Portions

CNN

From CNN:

'UPDATED: 03:32 AM EDT 05.20.09

Military personnel threw away, and ultimately burned, confiscated Bibles that were printed in the two most common Afghan languages amid concern they would be used to try to convert Afghans, a Defense Department spokesman said Tuesday.

The unsolicited Bibles sent by a church in the United States were confiscated about a year ago at Bagram Air Base in Afghanistan because military rules forbid troops of any religion from proselytizing while deployed there, Lt. Col. Mark Wright said.

Such religious outreach can endanger American troops and civilians in the devoutly Muslim nation, Wright said.

"The decision was made that it was a 'force protection' measure to throw them away, because, if they did get out, it could be perceived by Afghans that the U.S. government or the U.S. military was trying to convert Muslims," Wright told CNN on Tuesday.

Troops at posts in war zones are required to burn their trash, Wright said...'

'This decision came to light recently, after the Al Jazeera English network aired video of a group prayer service and chapel sermon that a reporter said suggested U.S. troops were being encouraged to spread Christianity.

The military denied that earlier this month, saying much in the video was taken out of context.

"This was irresponsible and dangerous journalism sensationalizing year-old footage of a religious service for U.S. soldiers on a U.S. base and inferring that troops are evangelizing to Afghans," Col. Gregory Julian said.

The military says a soldier at Bagram received the Bibles and didn't realize he wasn't allowed to hand them out. In the Al Jazeera video, which shows the Bibles at the prayer service, an unnamed soldier says members of his church raised money for them.

The chaplain later corrected the soldier and confiscated the Bibles, Wright said.

Military officers considered sending the Bibles back to the church, he said, but they worried the church would turn around and send them to another organization in Afghanistan -- giving the impression that they had been distributed by the U.S. government.

That could lead to violence against troops or U.S. civilians, Wright said...'

'Military personnel threw away, and ultimately burned, confiscated Bibles that were printed in the two most common Afghan languages amid concern they would be used to try to convert Afghans, a Defense Department spokesman said Tuesday.

Hmm, this is a good indicator for my young American friends out there that combining the careers of overseas US military member and aspiring hyper-charismatic radio/televangelist would not be a very good idea.

It is a terrible thing to burn Bibles. I certainly would have found a better answer for the problem even if it meant having Bibles shipped or driven out of Afghanistan.

Imagine if someone did mix the careers of being a member of the US military with being a hyper-charismatic televangelist in training, the prayer towels, holy water, and prayer letters from the mail that would have had to be trashed.

Perhaps burning some books with heretical teaching might not be all bad. But, please understand I would rather collect books with heretical teaching for research than burn them. I have a few in my library (fill in the blank) that could be easily be burned on theological grounds but my fireplace is a gas fire and it would make too much of a mess in the living room and as stated I like collecting books for research purposes.

Also, if one fell over at the hands of a hyper-charismatic soldier, would it be because the person on the ground was healed, stabbed, or shot?

Could the future televangelist in training heal one that he or she just stabbed or shot?

'Troops at posts in war zones are required to burn their trash, Wright said.'

I would never consider Bibles trash.

'Military officers considered sending the Bibles back to the church, he said, but they worried the church would turn around and send them to another organization in Afghanistan -- giving the impression that they had been distributed by the U.S. government.

That could lead to violence against troops or U.S. civilians, Wright said.'

Hmm, this sounds tricky. This may put quite a few restrictions on evangelism in that area.

Bodybuilders 'split' when they see drug testers

Portions

CBC

From CBC:

'Last Updated: Monday, May 18, 2009 4:00 PM ET

The Belgian bodybuilding championship has been cancelled after doping officials showed up and all the competitors fled.'

Oh no a 'roid' filled bodybuilding competition was cancelled...what a loss.

The Mr. Belgium Pageant was cancelled.

'The bodybuilders just grabbed their gear and ran off when a doping official came into the room, according to officials.

"I have never seen anything like it and hope never to see anything like it again," said doping official Hans Cooman.

Twenty bodybuilders were entered in the weekend competition...

Belgium's bodybuilding federation did not dispute the facts, but said it could not explain why the competitors had suddenly rushed off...

During testing of bodybuilding events last year, doping authorities of northern Belgium's Flanders region found that three-quarters of the competitors tested positive.'

And we are all shocked. How did they do in the talent competition? Yes, I do respect the size and power of bodybuilders and
weightlifters, but I think shows featuring those who use steroids are a waste of time when many competitors are cheating and setting a poor moral example.

This would be the result if you mixed dog shows with bodybuilding shows.

Okay, the return of Vinyl Man who has received hundreds of hits on this blog.

Very nice classical/acoustic guitar.

Will secular Europe soon cease to exist?

grandfinale@shaw.ca (satire and theology) — Fri, 01 May 2009 07:01:00 +0000

My post viva/verbal review PhD revisions are coming along nicely. I tackle the most difficult and complex revisions first and success provides me with confidence. I worked on the graphs with the help of a friend and now am working on Kant. Please see my thekingpin68 blog.

I am not claiming any expertise in population growth or the subject of population growth in Europe.

I am open to suggestions and differing opinions. I have British citizenship and a United Kingdom and European Union passport and therefore have personal interest as well.

Although I have come across Islam in my academic world religions research and blogging, I am not an expert on the religion and Islamic culture. Although I reason the information provided demonstrates the danger of radical Islamists running Western countries, I cannot guarantee that in every case a Muslim majority would greatly curb the rights of non-Muslims that wish to be non-religious, Christian or other in worldview and practice.

Please note, my personal interaction with Muslims has been positive. I have no personal agenda. I have met moral and kind Muslims. Most Muslims contribute to society.

Also, I in no way support a Christian or theistic theocracy within this present realm. I would like to see the Christian Church have moral influence on Western society and secular governments that do not adopt one particular state religion.

Why?

Because I do not want a state-church to exist that would seek to treat all that do not follow the state religion as heretical and treasonous.

Guess who would likely be on the outside looking in.

I do however believe that Christ and God will one day establish a Kingdom (Revelation 21-22).

Portions quoted from:

http://www.brusselsjournal.com/node/1609

http://www.khouse.org/enews_article/2004/817/

'Islam is quickly becoming a significant part of the cultural and political landscape of Europe. There are between 9 and 15 million Muslims living throughout Europe today, and Islam has become the largest religious minority. Considering current population trends and the need for immigrant labor it is likely that the number of Muslims in Europe will continue to grow exponentially. Bernard Lewis, a former history professor at Princeton and the respected author of more than a dozen books on the Middle East, is quoted as saying that "Europe will be Islamic by the end of the century."

Europe's Muslim population is not evenly distributed. It is concentrated primarily in six countries. France has a Muslim population of approximately 5 million, the largest in all of Europe. Germany has about 2 million, followed by the United Kingdom with 1.5 million, the Netherlands with 500,000, Belgium with 300,000, and Austria with 200,000. The heavy concentration of Muslims in these countries is not surprising, because during the last three decades they have experienced massive labor migrations. Large Muslim populations also exist in Italy and Spain, as well as several Scandinavian countries such as Sweden, Denmark, and Norway...

The EU may not become the Islamic Republic of Europe any time soon, but the excessive influx of Muslim immigrants and refugees into the EU is a serious issue. Opening the doors of Europe to Turkey and the Muslim world also means opening the door to radical Islamic fundamentalists. Many of whom have already fled to Europe (our readers may recall that the terrorist cell authorities suspect planned the September 11 attacks was based in Hamburg, Germany). To ignore such warnings or to label such commentators as alarmists requires disregarding much of what history has taught us about the relationship between Islam and the western world.'

http://www.blufftontoday.com/node/10269

The German author Henryk M. Broder recently told the Dutch newspaper De Volkskrant (12 October) that young Europeans who love freedom, better emigrate. Europe as we know it will no longer exist 20 years from now. Whilst sitting on a terrace in Berlin, Broder pointed to the other customers and the passers-by and said melancholically: “We are watching the world of yesterday.”Europe is turning Muslim...

As Tom Bethell wrote in this month’s American Spectator: “Just at the most basic level of demography the secular-humanist option is not working.” But there is more to it than the fact that non-religious people tend not to have as many children as religious people, because many of them prefer to “enjoy” freedom rather than renounce it for the sake of children. Secularists, it seems to me, are also less keen on fighting. Since they do not believe in an afterlife, this life is the only thing they have to lose. Hence they will rather accept submission than fight...'

http://www.freerepublic.com/focus/f-news/1705909/posts

'From the desk of Paul Belien on Wed, 2006-09-20 23:11 Dr Koenraad Elst, one of Belgium’s best orientalists and an occasional contributor to this website (if I had time I would translate more of his Dutch-language contributions into English), told me last week that he thinks “Islam is in decline, despite its impressive demographic and military surge” – which according to Dr Elst is merely a “last upheaval.”

He acknowledges, however, that this decline can take some time (at least in terms of the individual human life span) and that it is possible that Islam will succeed in becoming the majority religion in Europe before collapsing...

Perhaps, as Dr Elst fears, Islam in its stage of decline might, by the mid-21st century, succeed in conquering Europe and becoming the old continent’s dominant religion. In this knowledge one slogan of last Sunday’s Islamic hatemongerers in London may be more than just hate speech: “Islam will conquer Rome” may be prophetic. Here, however, we ourselves are to blame, because Islamists will not find it difficult to conquer Europe. Christianity in Western Europe has virtually ceased to exist. The spirit of secular relativism that originated from the French Enlightenment has persuaded Europe (including Europe’s churches) to commit a protracted, two centuries long suicide, the symptoms of which were visible in Communism, National-Socialism and moral relativism in general.

Man is a religious being and needs religious faith. If European Christianity had still been healthy today it would have proselytized, it would have reached out with missionary zeal to the millions of Muslims who migrated to Western Europe since the 1970s, it would have offered them Christ. Instead, it’s churches became bastions of religious relativism. Europe offered the newcomers only cultural decadence, from which decent people want to shield their children, and spiritual emptiness, which one can only despise.

The Europeans, who lost the missionary zeal to reach out to the immigrants, also lacked the zeal to pass on their own civilization to their offspring. Worse still, they lacked the zeal to have offspring. Since demographics is the mother of all politics, it is, barring a miracle, certain that Islam will become the old continent’s dominant religion.

Unless Europe rediscovers its will to survive – and it may already be too late (though as a Christian I do not exclude miracles) – soon furious Islamists may be holding sway over Europe in much the same way as the Taliban did over Afghanistan, removing all visible remnants of pre-Islamic culture. The Cathedrals of Europe may share the fate of the Buddhas of Bamiyan. Christian works of art may be destroyed. Surely, a faith that forbids the depiction of human figures will be offended by the Christian art of medieval Europe and the nudes of the Renaissance. Perhaps it is wise to seriously consider salvaging as many European cultural treasures as one already can, before it is too late, and bringing them to safety elsewhere.'

End of quotations.

My Aunt was nice enough to send me the You Tube clip and this was my reply (edited slightly.

That is very interesting. I have heard similar on Albert Mohler's website. It is scary but I reason Western society is heading for God;s judgment.

Problems

There are so few Christians and it is hard for many, such as myself to find a suitable partner. Therefore no families, sadly for many of us.

There are many that predict the evangelical church will collapse over the next few decades. A major possible reason is a lack of solid Biblical and theological training to separate it from secular thinking.

I consider myself only secondarily evangelical. I reason Reformed churches that have not sold out are more Biblical and theologically sound.

Evangelical churches often want to dummy things down and talk about how people can be happy, but this should not be done at the expense of teaching persons basic Biblical theology and how it differs from secular thought, and Islam, for example.

The radical liberal church basically is very similar to the world. Too many are not interested in letting the Bible in context (not always necessarily plain literal from an English reading, but it is sometimes) speak for itself. Too many want to make the Bible and God modern. He is not, he is the Alpha and Omega, eternal. He does not change.

Secular society supports too many abortions and abortion on demand. There is a break down of the concept of marriage and family as very important for many in society.

I think Islam is a false religion as it denies the deity of Christ, the Trinity and the atoning and resurrection of Christ. This is stated without anything personal against Muslims.

I hope and pray that through my blogs and future teaching I can help the gospel cause.

Lorrez Le Bocage Preau Saint Anne, France (photo from trekearth.com)

Notre Dame Cathedral, Paris, France (photo from trekearth.com)

EdH Frviere, Lyon, France (photo from trekearth.com)

A man with his cat and kittens. I am not certain on whether or not some of them are adoptable. They are rather larger than the cat I used to have but perhaps that is due to steroids.

Thanks for reading, I state more on the lead topic in comments.

Chance of Canada getting another team outside of beating Bettman and the NHL owners in court.

Me at practice...I wish.

nwr mar y sol fest wav edit 3.mp3

Blogger, Facebook and Twitter (Is Blogger losing out?)

grandfinale@shaw.ca (satire and theology) — Wed, 01 Apr 2009 07:01:00 +0000

Yorkshire, Dales, England (photo from trekearth.com)

I am not a member of Twitter and do not know much about it. I am not in any way trying to reflect on it negatively with this article. I have no intention of joining because I am already busy enough online.

Twitter

From the website it states:

Twitter is a service for friends, family, and co–workers to communicate and stay connected through the exchange of quick, frequent answers to one simple question: What are you doing?

I am a member of Facebook.

Facebook

Facebook helps you connect and share with the people in your life.

After already having two Blogger theology blogs, I joined Facebook to stay in touch with friends that mainly live outside of the Lower Mainland area and to meet new people online.

I also viewed it as an opportunity to promote my blogs, and there is a helpful blog application to promote them on Facebook.

I very much appreciate Facebook...but not as much as I appreciate my blogs.

I post links to my Blogger posts on Facebook but have never intended to place entire Blogger posts on Facebook. This would serve in a sense as another blog that I absolutely do not want as I am busy enough with PhD work and my Blogger blogs.

Even still, please do not misunderstand, I do appreciate very much comments related to Blogger posts left on Facebook.

It would be nice if these comments were duplicated on the blogs, but I realize people are often busy and I do not want to be viewed as a pushy so and so.;)

But, it is enough work writing two Blogger blogs and I do not want to basically write a third blog with pasted posts from satire and theology and thekingpin68 on Facebook.

I also do not want to write an original Facebook theology blog.

But it seems at times over the last few months that Blogger commenting has become less while many of my blog links spend time on Facebook. Some of my Facebook friends seem to perhaps post more theological and Biblical material on Facebook than on a Blogger, WordPress or other blogs.

I realize from experience that social networking is generally easier and often more fun than Blogging.:)

I have started some theological discussions on Facebook which did not translate to more Blogger blog article comments, but predictably more Facebook comments, which once again, I do appreciate very much.

But, if I keep that up I am basically going to be using Facebook as a third theological blog.

I could simply write blog articles in sent Facebook emails and also post a copy in my Facebook profile and then receive related emails from Facebook friends and also comments under the postings in my Facebook profile.

I wonder if it is going to become a trend in the near future for more theological blogging, and more blogging in general, to be done on Facebook then on actual blogs.

I have no ethical/moral problem with blogging on Facebook, but prefer to have professional blogs dedicated to theological, Biblical and philosophical articles with added filler for entertainment and educational purposes as opposed to a blog connected to emails and social networking.

But, that is my take. What is your opinion?

Is Facebook, Twitter, or another social networking service perhaps going to have more on site bloggers in the future than Blogger, WordPress, or other blogs?

Or are dedicated blogs going to remain the primary forum for blogging?

In overall terms, will social networking sites take large amounts of time from bloggers and their blogs?

I think the answer is likely 'no' for the first question and 'yes' with the latter two questions. I am making no ethical/moral judgment here and I am not suggesting people should spend more time on blog sites and less on social network sites.

My Blogger audience is made up of primarily online searches, blog links and friends. These online searches do sometimes include persons from Facebook.

My Facebook audience is primarily Facebook friends.

I reason there is more potential for readership and comments at this point with Blogger. This combined with the nature of dedicated blogs has me wanting to focus primarily on my existing blogs over Facebook in regard to blogging.

The End

Tom Vu says, 'You a looza'.

Mom sent me this picture with description.

'Redneck word of the day : "OBAMA"

I BOUGHT ME A CASE OF BEER AND DRANK IT OBAMA SELF!'

A story on the web that I DID NOT write:

'A BOTTLE OF WINE

A woman and a man are involved in a car accident on a snowy, cold Monday morning; it's a bad one. Both of their cars are totally demolished, but amazingly neither of them are hurt. God works in mysterious ways.

After they crawl out of their cars, the man is yelling about women drivers.

The woman says, 'So, you're a man. That's interesting. I'm a woman. Wow, just look at our cars! There's nothing left, but we're unhurt. This must be a sign from God that we should be friends and live in peace for the rest of our days'.

Flattered, the man replies, 'Oh yes, I agree completely, this must be a sign from God! But you're still at fault...women shouldn't be allowed to drive.'

The woman continues, 'And look at this, here's another miracle. My car is completely demolished but this bottle of wine didn't break. Surely God wants us to drink this wine and celebrate our good fortune.' She hands the bottle to the man. The man nods his head in agreement, opens it and drinks half the bottle and then hands it back to the woman. The woman takes the bottle, puts the cap back on and hands it back to the man.

The man asks, 'Aren't you having any?'

The woman replies, 'No. I think I'll just wait for the police....'

MORAL OF THE STORY: Women are clever and evil'

Evangelicalism in the future: The Socialist Paradise of Canada and the Excited States of Americana

grandfinale@shaw.ca (satire and theology) — Wed, 11 Mar 2009 03:43:00 +0000

My Facebook friend and blog link Leroy of

Professor Howdy

and

My Thoughts on Life

posted a link from Michael Spencer:

Monitor: Evangelical Collapse

I left the following reply on Facebook to the Spencer article...oh yea once again Facebook is not the new Blogger!;) The Spencer article portions are in quote marks

In regard to evangelicalism and politics:

'1. ... This will prove to be a very costly mistake. Evangelicals will increasingly be seen as a threat to cultural progress. Public leaders will consider us bad for America, bad for education, bad for children, and bad for society. '

This sounds reasonable.

In regard to the development of young evangelicals:

'2. ...Our young people have deep beliefs about the culture war, but do not know why they should obey scripture, the essentials of theology, or the experience of spiritual discipline and community. Coming generations of Christians are going to be monumentally ignorant and unprepared for culture-wide pressures.'

This is true in many cases...people are not interested in theology and Christian philosophy, in other words what is behind a Christian worldview.

A possible evangelical collapse:

'3...coming evangelical collapse will not result in a second reformation, though it may result in benefits for many churches and the beginnings of new churches.'

Reasonable, but hopefully there will be another Reformation.

For this blog I will add the following:

In regard to evangelicalism and politics:

'1. ... This will prove to be a very costly mistake. Evangelicals will increasingly be seen as a threat to cultural progress. Public leaders will consider us bad for America, bad for education, bad for children, and bad for society. '

First, I should note that although I consider myself theologically evangelical, I would see myself as primarily Christian and Reformed.

It seems from the American media and reading blogs that it is becoming more difficult over time to be socially conservative in the United States. This attitude of the mainstream media and the many of the masses against social conservatism is even more prevalent in Canada and Western Europe. Social conservatism and its values are often tied to Biblical Christianity and therefore Biblical Christianity may face increased opposition over time.

Satirically, in The Socialist Paradise of Canada we have a land area slightly larger than that of the Excited States of Americana, and so if enough Americans from the 'red states' moved here perhaps we could create a conservative nation up north somewhere and then separate from Canada like some of the Quebecois desire with Quebec.

In regard to the development of young evangelicals:

'2. ...Our young people have deep beliefs about the culture war, but do not know why they should obey scripture, the essentials of theology, or the experience of spiritual discipline and community. Coming generations of Christians are going to be monumentally ignorant and unprepared for culture-wide pressures.'

I have reasoned this for years based on another problem I have faced. That being that I can find so few women to relate enough to ask out on a date. Many evangelical women (not all) simply are not theological enough to relate to a theologian. I can attempt to stop being so theological all the time but inevitably I look at things philosophically and theologically and I need a women to relate to that aspect of me at least somewhat. I am not stating she should have a theology or related degree.

Now, I realize that I do not live in Christianized America and that since I have been a student for so long I have not had the social life needed to date often. And yes, I have made mistakes, but not with a right one.

The End.

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A real life Fred Flinstone?

The following you do not want to state to fellow bloggers when you are in a dispute!

Thanks Mom, for sending.

This photo from a previous post has been bringing in some traffic and so I present once again...Vinyl Man

Double Feature: The Lochness Monster vs. Tarzan/Shared control of my computer?

grandfinale@shaw.ca (satire and theology) — Sun, 01 Mar 2009 08:02:00 +0000

Sutton Bank, England (photos from trekearth.com)

Shared control of my computer?

I had to call Microsoft on two different occasions in regard to an issue on my Mom's computer and it took me several hours to work out the problem. I found something out which is quite interesting which I am certain some of you are already aware of.

The Microsoft technician with the owner's permission and with the use of downloaded software can take over shared control of a computer that has a Microsoft operating system. The technicians in India did so on my Mom's computer and fixed the problem twice.

I reason a government technician could take shared control of a personal computer too...likely without permission. The shared control was done through the operating system by the Microsoft technician but I reason this could be done by government technicians to spy on terror and criminal suspects, but could also be done to any citizen I suppose that has a Microsoft operating system on a computer. Business computers could also be examined without permission.

I have mixed views on the idea of shared control. For technical support, I admit that it is a very helpful concept for a customer. I am pretty knowledgeable with computers, but I am not a technician and the shared control allowed me to have this problem dealt with quicker than it would be if I was to do my own research and to ask my various software engineer friends for assistance.

On the negative side, it would be quite easy I reason for Microsoft to work with various Western government agencies to spy on persons through entering the operating system. I suppose this would not be too difficult to do as all official copies of Microsoft operating system are to be registered to a name.

I personally have nothing to hide from Western governments, and I do not store sensitive information of my hard drive. As well, as I am a theological blogger I am making my views public and I risk one day possibly being at odds with the powers that be. But, this is a stance I take for the gospel and the theological, philosophical and Biblical research I have done for almost twenty years is what I reason the Lord wishes me to share with others in love and respect.

But even if such tactics as the government without authorization taking shared control of my computer did take place, I am to obey the state as long as I obey the Bible and God at the same time.

The state however, should obey its own laws.

Concerning Romans 13, F.F. Bruce writes that human government is a divine ordinance and has the powers of coercion and commendation which it has been given by God. By Christians obeying the state, they are serving God. Bruce (1987: 221).

Bruce reasons that Paul does not deal with the issue of unrighteous government here, but as with Acts 5: 29, Christians must obey God and Christ and not the state when the state claims divine honours. Bruce (1987: 221).

Cranfield explains that in Romans 13, Paul is not asking for an uncritical obedience to the state, but rather that God has placed the state in authority over persons. Cranfield (1992: 321).

Mounce states that in Romans 13, that there is a divinely sanctioned role of government and that Christians are responsible to that government. It did not make any difference that the governing authorities were secular. God is the sole source of authority and established the authority for the state.

If the government oversteps its rightful domain, then according to Mounce the Christian should not obey the ruler and he notes this was done in Acts 4: 9 and 5: 29.

Concerning 1 Peter 2 13-15, Barclay explains that the concept of anarchy by the Christian is far from New Testament thought. Barclay reasons what belongs to Caesar (the state) should be given to it, and what belongs to God should be given to God (Matthew 22: 21). Barclay (1976: 205).

Both Cranfield and Barclay mention that Paul is discussing the concept of submitting to an authoritarian state, as in the Roman Empire of the New Testament era. Barclay (1976: 206) Cranfield (1992: 321). Barclay correctly point out in my view that in our modern West the need for Christians to participate in democratic government as it is for and by the people, at least idealistically. Barclay (1976: 206).

Voting, letter writing, public meetings and even blogging would be ways for a Christian to voice a view.

I reason this concept of submission to the state could becomes tricky for the typical Western Christian mind. My natural reaction and that of many Christians in Western society in the Church I reason, if we were to face heavy serious persecution perhaps leading to death, would be to physically fight back. However, in a democratic Western setting we are allowed to forcibly remove the government through the vote and in some cases referendum or an act of a legislature. If the government broke the law by spying on me through unauthorized sharing of my computer, I would have the right to challenge the government based on the existing laws.

It certainly was immoral and unjust for the Roman state to execute Christians because they were Christians and would not obey the state and worship other gods, and yet the Christians were often martyrs and not soldiers.

I am not stating that because Christian did not revolt against Rome that this means we as Christians should not oppose tyranny. Germany from my understanding had a type of democracy prior to Nazis Germany and Christians should have opposed within legal means the rise of this totalitarian state. Also in the West today, Christians should oppose abortion on demand by legal means.

In conclusion, in seems to me that the Romans and Peter passages seem to rule out revolution by force against an authoritarian state. Christ died for sin, the apostles and the disciples for the most part became martyrs if need be and did not attempt to revolt against the state in the context of revolution.

Romans 13 (New American Standard Bible)

Romans 13
Be Subject to Government

1Every (A)person is to be in (B)subjection to the governing authorities For (C)there is no authority except from God, and those which exist are established by God.

2Therefore whoever resists authority has opposed the ordinance of God; and they who have opposed will receive condemnation upon themselves.

3For (D)rulers are not a cause of fear for good behavior, but for evil. Do you want to have no fear of authority? Do what is good and you will have praise from the same;

4for it is a minister of God to you for good. But if you do what is evil, be afraid; for it does not bear the sword for nothing; for it is a minister of God, an (E)avenger who brings wrath on the one who practices evil.

5Therefore it is necessary to be in subjection, not only because of wrath, but also (F)for conscience' sake.

6For because of this you also pay taxes, for rulers are servants of God, devoting themselves to this very thing.

7(G)Render to all what is due them: (H)tax to whom tax is due; (I)custom to whom custom; fear to whom fear; honor to whom honor.

8Owe nothing to anyone except to love one another; for (J)he who loves his neighbor has fulfilled the law.

1 Peter 2:12-15 (New American Standard Bible)

12(A)Keep your behavior excellent among the Gentiles, so that in the thing in which they (B)slander you as evildoers, they may because of your good deeds, as they observe them, (C)glorify God (D)in the day of [a]visitation.

13(E)Submit yourselves for the Lord's sake to every human institution, whether to a king as the one in authority,

14or to governors as sent by him (F)for the punishment of evildoers and the (G)praise of those who do right.

15For (H)such is the will of God that by doing right you may (I)silence the ignorance of foolish men.

BARCLAY, WILLIAM (1976) The Letters of James and Peter, Philadelphia, The Westminster Press.

BRUCE, F.F. (1987) Romans, Grand Rapids, William B. Eerdmans Publishing Company.

CRANFIELD, C.E.B. (1992) Romans: A Shorter Commentary, Grand Rapids, William B. Eerdmans Publishing Company.

MOUNCE, ROBERT H. (1995) The New American Commentary: Romans, Nashville, Broadman & Holman Publishers.

The Lochness Monster versus Tarzan

My Lochness Monster article in archives has been bringing in the most traffic so far to this blog. I need to relax from PhD revisions and so here is the ending of a 'match' between Giant Haystacks (The Lochness Monster) and a wrestler calling himself Tarzan.

Please watch from 3:25 on...LOL.

Tarzan probably feels like a lot British PhD students after the verbal defence/viva.;)

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Kindly note that this is legit and any act like this is very appreciated and will be well honoured, You are strongly adviced to contact Mr Moris William with this details below:

CONTACT PERSON: Mr Moris William
AGENT E MAIL: atmcardremittancedept08@msn.com

Note: You are to contact him with your full details for verifications,
FULL NAME: DELIVERY ADDRESS: PHONE NUMBER:
COUNTRY: OCCUPATION: SEX: AGE:
Thanks Mrs Rita Shawn(Announcer)'

Non-exhaustive thoughts on Facebook: featuring web cammers and scammers

grandfinale@shaw.ca (satire and theology) — Mon, 16 Feb 2009 08:44:00 +0000

Non-exhaustive thoughts on Facebook

Sunday is a day off from PhD revisions and it is late Sunday night, early Monday morning.

Facebook positives:

Keeping up with old friends:

Facebook has made it much easier for me to stay in touch with old friends and to let them know I would be visiting Wales and England last January, for example. Not that my friends are that old mind you, but they are not as young as they were when I had previously lived in Manchester, of course.

I am older too, but...

hair club (just joking this is a satire site and I have no person in mind)

Reacquainting with my old school friends/acquaintances:

For me this includes, former churches, elementary school, high school, Bible school, seminary and the British Universities I have attended. It is interesting to try and remember as many persons as possible and to look them up and them see if they will be my Facebook friend, that is if I can stomach a certain person and vice versa.;)

That is not always the case with me being as controversial as I am. ;)

I am not stating that I dislike someone if I do not ask him or her to be a Facebook friend, or that I think he or she dislikes me.

Promoting my blogs:

Since I am working on a PhD in Theology, it is good to promote my teaching and academic abilities through this blog, satire and theology, and my more academic blog, thekingpin68 as well. It has been good to meet online both Christians and non-Christians willing to give my material a read.

Strangers:

Sometimes some pleasant people can be met. I look forward to continuing to meet new people.

Facebook negatives:

Strangers:

Group 1: The 'web cammers’.

Through the 'Are You Interested?' application I click on certain women and they some click on me. This is not a dating service in my mind and is simply a way for me to perhaps weed through thousands of women to perhaps meet a Christian one to chat with as a Facebook friend.

I do not expect to ever date anyone through this or anything further than that, but I try.

The web cammers after we are Facebook friends sometimes appear on Facebook chat. Tonight via chat one asked me if I was ready to see her naked. I did not reply and simply deleted her as a friend. This is as my Facebook status headline reads:

Russ does not have a webcam...and is not getting one.

As well I have been asked a few times if I have a webcam and I know that a related invitation to Yahoo Messenger or Windows Messenger is leading to a ‘party’ with her and perhaps a friend, and I just see this as a total waste of time, and of course opposed to Christian morals.

Matthew 5:27-28 (New American Standard Bible)

27"(A)You have heard that it was said, '(B)YOU SHALL NOT COMMIT ADULTERY';

28but I say to you that everyone who looks at a woman (C)with lust for her has already committed adultery with her in his heart.

Now I have never claimed to be completely sexually pure in spirit, not at all, but I would like to avoid sexual sin. I delete the women that ask me if I have a webcam as well.

The fact I am a full-time student living in a quite secular part of the Western World and have not met suitable Christian women does not in any way mean that looking at someone on a webcam is going to assist me with issues of loneliness and related.

Group 2: The ‘web scammers’.

I have had quite a few of these from Christian websites and now recently a few on Facebook claim to show interest in me, but the scripts and tactics are all too familiar.

No, I am not going to pay for a young woman to come and see me and have her take the money and share it with her organized crime employers.

One time a Russian young woman after approximately three emails, in which we did not have any deep meaningful conversation, stated she ‘loved me’.

scammers

I posted this yesterday on Facebook and the other blog, but this relates to this point as well.

This is a message from someone, that according to her, is now in Benin, Africa, and was formerly in London and North Carolina. She is on the Facebook 'Are You Interested?' application. She acted ticked when I messaged with her briefly here last week and had not visited her when I was in the UK last month, as she was in London. As if I was going to visit her after two to three short email messages, as she is a stranger and I was nowhere near London. I have no clue what the hell she is writing about.

''sweetie, if i tell you i love you, it doesnt mean facial loving, you talking about facial loving, i havnt met you ,so i believe i just like you but i love the way you talk to me, message me, i can read the feelings you have for me and i believe definetely we are going to me then that means we will one day. i so much chrish your humbleness and the way you talk to me through mails and also your profile is an evidence of you mylove.' '

My reply to this message was...LOL.

Fishy applications:

My final negative with Facebook for this post is when I receive messages stating that so and so, usually a female Facebook friend, wrote such and such about me. I checked with a certain person and she basically stated she had no clue and had done no such thing. This has happened more than once with Facebook applications, and I therefore question the integrity and honesty of some of these programs.

Please check out my other new short article below and leave a short comment if you feel so inclined with both of my posts:

short

This just arrived by email:

'Our Ref: FGN /SNT/STB

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below:AGENT NAME:Ken Morris

E MAIL: atmcardremittancedept09@msn.com

Note: You are to contact him with your full

details for verifications, FULL NAME: DELIVERY ADDRESS: PHONE NUMBER: COUNTRY: OCCUPATION: SEX: AGE:

Thanks Mr David James
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and...

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Allan Holdsworth, Panic Station (1984)

Allan Holdsworth, Metal Fatigue (1984)

Crazy drivers: both sexes

Caution: This clip is funny, but there is some black humour I would have edited out.

Feinberg on the State of Humankind (PhD edit)

grandfinale@shaw.ca (satire and theology) — Sat, 07 Feb 2009 20:05:00 +0000

The three photos are of Aurora Australis: The Southern Lights

The Aurora Borealis in Alaska: The Northern Lights

The Aurora Borealis in Greenland: The Northern Lights

This short section has been removed from my revised PhD thesis.

Thank you for reading and commenting. I personally take a Biblical, Reformed position on the topic.

Russ

Feinberg on the State of Humankind

Feinberg deduces that basic human attributes given by God to human beings are not negated by the Biblical concept of the fall which he accepts as valid.[1] He postulates the idea that the fall led to sin existing in humanity, and that this caused human attributes not to function as they were originally intended.[2] Feinberg also believes that the fall did not overturn the basic laws of nature and physics.[3]

John Calvin writes that the original nature of human beings was corrupted due to human disobedience to God leading to the fall and a continuing sin problem in humanity.[4] This thinking likely influenced Feinberg’s concept, and Calvin also notes that human sinful nature is not humanity’s true original nature but is its derangement.[5] Calvin thought human corruption did not dwell in one part of the body, and that not one part was free of the deadly taint of corruption.[6] He notes that the nature of man both intellect and will, according to Scripture, is corrupt and opposed to God.[7] Calvin views human corruption as leading to bondage to sin that does not allow a human being to make a voluntary movement towards goodness; by goodness Calvin means the desire to seek God, and the ability of a human being to please God without any wrong doing.[8] However, Calvin, like Feinberg centuries later, seemingly did not think that all human attributes given by God were totally negated. Calvin explains that humanity still possessed a limited free will and could seek evil and oppose God, but could not please their creator.[9] This opposition to God was not done by force or coercion by God, but was committed by humanity freely.[10] The fall would lead to, from a Calvinistic perspective, ‘total depravity’ which noted Calvinist Andrew Fuller (1754-1815)[11] describes as the notion that each person’s heart is by nature totally destitute of the love of God, and thus does not posses any true virtue that could possibly please God.[12] This type of historical, theological approach to the fall and human nature within Calvinism would certainly influence Feinberg’s sovereignty defence.

The fall was discussed in Chapter Two from the perspective of Augustine’s traditional, literal, historical view, and modern views that would disagree with that perspective.[13] For the sake of avoiding repetition I will summarize and provide some new perspectives. Erickson reasons that from his traditional Calvinistic theology, which he views as being in line with the Apostle Paul, the fall of the human race and the resulting sin prevents human beings from properly perceiving God.[14] As noted previously, Calvin believed that humanity fell into disobedience from God.[15] However, if the fall is a debatable concept within academia, then the corrupt nature resulting from it would also be debatable. David A. Pailin explained to me it is possible that the state of humanity, as it is today, is as it has always been, that is less than perfect.[16] There is no documented historical evidence of a human civilization that did not deal with the problem of evil.[17] It may be that actual human nature and attributes do not turn towards God or the type of God that Feinberg, Calvin and Calvinists believe inspired the Bible to be written.[18]

John Macquarrie (1999) comments that since the Enlightenment, some humanists have had anti-Christian feelings in regard to notions concerning the sinful nature of humanity.[19] The humanism accepted by some modern philosophers and theologians, would not understand humanity to be corrupt.[20] Humanists often believe that human beings have proper values that do not need religious support. Many within secular academia see human beings as not being corrupt.[22] Humanists often believe that human beings have proper values that do not need religious support.[23]

[1] Feinberg (1994: 126-127).
[2] Feinberg (1994: 126-127).
[3] Feinberg (1994: 127).
[4] Calvin (1539)(1998: Book II, Chapter 2, 7).
[5] Calvin (1539)(1998: Book II, Chapter 2, 7).
[6] Calvin (1539)(1998: Book II, Chapter 2, 7).
[7] Calvin (1539)(1998: Book II, Chapter 3, 2).
[8] Calvin (1539)(1998: Book II, Chapter 3, 5).
[9] Calvin (1543)(1996: 69).
[10] Calvin (1543)(1996: 69).
[11] Green (1971: 83).
[12] Fuller (1785)(1971: 84).
[13] Augustine (398-399)(1992: 149). Jackson (1941)(2006: 1). Fretheim (1994: 152-153).
[14] Erickson (1994: 170).
[15] Calvin (1539)(1998: Book II, Chapter 2, 7).
[16] Pailin (1999: interview).
[17] Pailin (1999: interview).
[18] Pailin (1999: interview).
[19] Macquarrie (1999: 272-273).
[20] Macquarrie (1999: 272-273).
[22] Macquarrie (1999: 272-273).
[23] Macquarrie (1999: 272-273).

AUGUSTINE (398-399)(1992) Confessions, Translated by Henry Chadwick, Oxford, Oxford University Press.

CALVIN, JOHN (1539)(1998) The Institutes of the Christian Religion, Book II, Grand Rapids, Wheaton College.
http://www.smartlink.net/~douglas/calvin/

ERICKSON, MILLARD (1994) Christian Theology, Grand Rapids, Baker Book House.

FEINBERG, JOHN S. (1994) The Many Faces of Evil, Grand Rapids, Zondervan Publishing House.

FRETHEIM, TERENCE E. (1994) ‘Is Genesis 3 a Fall Story?’, in Word and World, Luther Seminary, pp. 144-153. Saint Paul, Luther Seminary.

FULLER, ANDREW (1875)(1971) ‘Point One: Total Depravity’, in Five Points of Calvinism, Grand Rapids, Sovereign Grace Publishers.

GREEN, JAY (1971) Five Points of Calvinism, ‘Forward’, Grand Rapids, Sovereign Grace Publishers.

JACKSON, JOHN G. (1941)(2006) Pagan Origins of the Christ Myth, New York, Truth Seeker Co.

MACQUARRIE, JOHN (1999) ‘Humanism’, in Alan Richardson and John Bowden (eds.), A New Dictionary of Christian Theology, Kent, SCM Press Ltd.

PAILIN DAVID A. (1999) ‘Interview’, November-December, in The University of Manchester, Manchester, The University of Manchester.

Hilarious soccer fight, I love the technique

Soccer dives to Star Wars...even a manager gets into the act

Places to visit in the British Isles

grandfinale@shaw.ca (satire and theology) — Wed, 28 Jan 2009 00:36:00 +0000

If you feel so inclined and wish to leave a message with my PhD passed article, please do so here. Thank you!

PhD passed

I am still quite tired from my United States, Netherlands, Wales and England trip. My sleep apnea makes it worse. I am working on getting materials for revisions and should have more energy soon.

I will try (no promises) and produce four articles between thekingpin68 and satire and theology each month and so half of what I produce now. I will be quite busy with revisions, and then finding work and then working full-time from now on.

While on the trip my good friend Mr. X suggested that since I was teasing him about not taking his wife to many places, while he was playing the Wii, that I should write an article concerning romantic places in the United Kingdom to visit. Well, let us make it the British Isles so I can include Dublin.

Please note Mr. X is a very smart and diligent worker outside of Wii!

Mr. X and his wife LX reason I am romantic. That is difficult for me to know as I have basically been married to theses for ten years and degrees for eighteen. After these PhD revisions are done and the degree is on my wall I will seek a divorce.

I suppose I do have some female admirers on and off-line, but a few of them are under 5 years old and see me as Russ the big dumb teddy bear/big dumb monsta.

But I do love those little critters.

I have visited the British Isles nine times and lived in the United Kingdom for two years. Here is my take.

Non-romantic:

For a break from all the 'luvvy', gushy stuff, take your sweetheart to a football match in Manchester (United, United, United, United, or City), Liverpool (Liverpool or Everton), Birmingham (Aston Villa, and no this is not in Alabama!), Leeds (Leeds FC has tanked and now dropped down from the Premier League and so tickets will be cheaper).

Romantic:

London, England:

Go and see Arsenal of course.;)

From:

Virgin

'Visit the Big Ben.
Photograph the Thames River.
Take a river cruise on the Thames.
Visit the Prime Meridian at the Royal Observatory and the National Maritime Museum in Greenwich. You can take a river cruise to get there!
Ride on the London Eye, the largest ferris wheel in the world.
Stop by Grosvenor Square.
Immerse yourself in culture at the British Museum.
Watch a Broadway show.
Buy gifts for friends and family at the over 300 shops located on Oxford Street.
Stroll down The Mall, a road that leads to the Buckingham Palace.
Visit the Buckingham Palace.
Experience the changing of the guard ceremony at Buckingham Palace.
Hike up the geometric staircase at a St. Paul's Cathedral tour.
Take a bus through one of London's largest transportation hubs: Victoria Station.
Pub much? Be sure to visit one of the J.D Wetherspoon chain pubs.
Take the London Underground: These trains have cushioned seats and there's a nice LED display overhead that gives riders the estimated time for the next train.
Make sure to "mind the gap."
Go on the Circle Line ... in a circle. (I did this in college.)
Witness the fountains in Trafalgar Square, or photograph the great Christmas tree that is erected during the winter months.
Tour the Tower of London, where you can see the very precious Crown Jewels. '

Durham, England

I visited here in 1997 and almost signed with Durham for the PhD program following. A very impressive area esthetically.

From:

Express

'Durham Cathedral is a wonderful reminder of the age of the Prince Bishops. The cathedral was founded in 995 by monks from Lindisfarne who had fled their island home when the Danish Vikings came calling. The monks needed a home for the relics of St. Cuthbert, and they built a superb church on a rise above a bend of the River Wear. The church built by Cuthbert's followers was pulled down by the second bishop of Durham when the present building was begun in 1093.

The nave is astonishing; the relatively slender composite piers alternate with massive drum columns. In this building the three main innovations of the revolutionary Gothic style come together; pointed arches, ribbed vaults, and flying buttresses (hidden above the aisle vaults). Durham is one of the high points of cathedral architecture in this or any other land. For a final tribute to Saint Cuthbert, see the items discovered in his coffin, now on display in the upper library.

Not to be outdone by the cathedral is Durham Castle, begun in 1073 to house the Prince Bishops in style. Essentially a motte and bailey design, the castle has been much altered over the years. The Norman Chapel within the castle, with its sandstone arches and carved capitals, is a superb example of Romanesque architecture. In 1837 the last Count Palatine (Prince Bishop) granted the castle to Durham University, and it now serves as a residence for students. During summer university holidays visitors may stay in the castle.

Edinburgh, Scotland

Some of the local bus drivers may provide you with a wee bit of a wild ride, especially if you are standing up.

I almost signed up with Edinburgh for my PhD program, but the man I was willing to work with left.

From:

Edinburgh

'Welcome to Edinburgh and the Lothians, where the buzz of Scotland's capital city sits in perfect contrast to the peaceful tranquility of the surrounding Lothians region.

Edinburgh has one of the most beautiful cityscapes in the world, making it the ideal city break destination. With Scotland's most famous castle dominating the city skyline, there is plenty to see and do with the perfect balance between all things traditional and contemporary.

Discover world-class museums and galleries, take a tour on an open-top bus or even visit the city's own zoo. From the world famous Festivals to top-class restaurants and bars, not to mention fabulous shopping, you'll be spoilt for choice.'

Dublin, Ireland

I really enjoyed the bus tour here. It is very classy historical city in my opinion. I did not enjoy having the lady run in front me of while trying to jump into the River Liffy and perhaps killing herself. I managed to talk her out of it until the police came. Her baby was in a carriage across the street.

I overlooked studying here, but will not overlook the possibility of working here.

From:

Dublin

'The city of Dublin can trace its origins back over 1000 years when the city was founded by Vikings.

The Vikings refered to the settlement as Dyflin, from the Irish Duiblinn or "Black Pool"

In Irish Dublin is known as "Baile Átha Cliath" which means "the town of the ford of the hurdles"

In 1649 Dublin was taken over by Oliver Cromwell following the English Civil Wars. At that time it was a small medieval town with about 9000 people living there. By the early 1700s Dublins population grew rapidly and became a very wealthy city. It soon became the second city of the British Empire.

Dublin became Ireland's capital city following Ireland's independence in 1922.'

Bristol, England

I could have signed with the University of Bristol for a PhD program, twice. I liked the town but there were drunk students walking around.

From:

Planetware

'Although the old town center suffered heavily from bomb damage during the Second World War, Bristol (only 6mi/10km from the Bristol Channel) retains its charm as a historic port. It also has some fine residential suburbs, balanced, it should be said, by some poorer ones. Bristol is noted for music and film industries, the Bristol City Museum and Art Gallery, and the Watershed Media Centre. Having for many years been the home of two of Britain's biggest aeronautical companies, Rolls Royce and British Aerospace, both with large engineering plants in the north of the city (and involved in Concorde and the Airbus project), Bristol has turned increasingly for its prosperity to the insurance and service sector (Sun Alliance, Sun Life, Lloyds) and the electronics industry (marked by the arrival in the 1980s of firms such as Hewlett Packard and IBM). Food manufacture, tobacco processing, printing and chemicals are also important to the economy. When, because of deeper draught, ships could no longer navigate the narrow River Avon up to Bristol, a new port with modern docks, oil refineries and industrial estates sprang up in the Avonmouth/Royal Portbury area.'

York, England

If you every have a chance to go to York Cathedral...go.

From:

Planetware

'York is the former center of the largest county in Great Britain (Yorkshire). Although Yorkshire was divided into four individual counties in 1974, York continues to be the capital city of the north of England, the counterpart of London. York is also the ecclesiastical capital of the Church of England, the archbishop of York being second only to the archbishop of Canterbury in the Anglican Church. The Lord Mayor of this both medieval and modern town also has a special status, sharing only with the Lord Mayor of London the honorific prefix of "Right Honorable". The title of the Duke of York is traditionally awarded to the second eldest son of the Sovereign.

York's fame rests on its amazing sights. York Minster is the largest medieval church in England and beyond question one of the most beautiful. Its large amount of medieval stained glass is unique. The townscape is characterized by magnificent half-timbered constructions, three medieval guildhalls, numerous churches and public buildings, and romantic streets. York also has the longest circuit of medieval town walls, approximately 3mi/8km long. The walls offer a pleasant walk with marvelous views of the city. Several excellent museums enrich the cultural life of the city.'

Cambridge, England

I almost signed with Cambridge University. My contact from the University took me out for tea and biscuits...all class.

From:

Cambridge

'Home of the famous University, carols in King's College Chapel and punting on the river Cam. Cambridge is a compact cosmopolitan city with outstanding architecture old and new. The beauty of its ancient centre is preserved with its walkable medieval streets, college courts, gardens and bridges.

Cambridge is a delight to visit in any season: relax in its many pubs, restaurants and cafes whilst exploring the independent shops around the historic market place. There are brand new shopping areas too, with all the high street favourites that you would expect.

Be inspired by the museums and art galleries; spot the stars of the future at a student theatrical production, or see a show at the Arts Theatre. Film, live music of all kinds, poetry readings, public lectures - enter into the intellectual life of the students while you are here.

Cambridge is easy to get to by road, rail or air – just 50 minutes from central London and 20 minutes from London Stansted Airport.

There is too much to see in a day. Stay a few nights and explore the market towns and country houses around Cambridge.'

There are other places to visit which I may mention in comments.

Wales

Conwy, Wales photos by Russ Murray

By all means visit Wales as well.

Additional

I am pretty stressed from PhD revisions and related.

Here is some humour.

I have near mint copies of both comics that went from their original wrap to being bagged and boarded.

I owned copies of these when I was six-seven years old.

For the Captain America audio just scroll down slightly once you get to the site.

The Captain America one is especially funny.

http://powerrecord.blogspot.com/search?q=captain+america