I am a huge proponent of incorporating technology into the local church. It deserves to be said, however, that when it comes to technology in the local church, we need to think through our options. Just because we can do something, doesn’t mean that we should. On a practical level, one instance of this is the recent increase of multiple … Read More
Where are you, God?
It is good to ask God, “Where are you?” Some of us are afraid to ask, thinking that our faith or our soul is in jeopardy. But in reality, it is quite the opposite. If we are asking God where He is, it means that we care and that we want to know where God is. In fact, we are … Read More
Poem: Belated Eulogy
Nearly two years later, it is still difficult to write about our son, Jeremiah. For months, I could not write about his death. Then, after it became possible for me to write, I felt like anything that I wrote was far too trivial. About a year ago, I wrote my first song about our experience and memories. Now, about two … Read More
Going Public
For Christians, the “good life” is not something reserved for an exclusive few. It is not hidden, or kept for those who have an ecstatic vision or some kind of secret experience. It is not monopolized by a particular class of people. Christianity is unique in that life is accessible to everyone, regardless of who you are. In 1 John, … Read More
$1 Christmas Gifts
If you need a Christmas gift that’s a bargain and immediate, remember that individual MP3’s are available at DiscRevolt: http://www.discrevolt.com/albums/view/2334 It’s really easy to download the songs. You can even email the MP3’s to your friends online. It’s a perfect way to keep in touch this holiday season! 1 MP3 = Someone you barely know 5 MP3 = Someone you … Read More
Preparing for Revival
Spiritual revival, or the renewal of our relationship with God, does not merely happen by chance, nor does it descend from heaven without our awareness. Both Scripture and history attest to the fact that certain conditions need to be met before we are spiritually resuscitated. We do not slip and “fall” into revival, but we prepare for it. Thankfully, revival … Read More
Praise that Delivers
It is easy to become short-sighted in our worship of God. Some seek self-fulfillment in worship, which often includes songs about ourselves and our desires. Others see worship as having only one purpose and only one purpose, neglecting the fact that the act of worship can have a variety of purposes. Still others miss the fact that worship should be … Read More
God-Honoring Worship
How can we honor God in our worship? Although Exodus 20:22-26 is not frequently quoted in the context of worship, it provides some direction for us. In speaking to Moses, God gives the Israelites four instructions. They are simple and helpful, even for us today: 1. Do not worship anyone else beside me. (v.23) 2. It is absolutely necessary to … Read More
Work With All Your Heart
Colossians 3:23 was intended for all aspects of life. In that verse, Paul reminds us that “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not men.” Our work should be defined by maximum effort and the right motives. Unfortunately, most of miss the mark in one way or the other. Some people become … Read More
Theology of the Arts
Recently I was asked about my view of the arts in local church. I thought I’d post my brief response, in case it is helpful to anyone. —————————————————– When it comes to the creative arts, I believe that art is a wonderful part of the Christian life. Various passages of Scripture reveal that God loves creativity, He enjoys various expressions … Read More
WorshipGod Worship Conference (Sovereign Grace, 2008)
Very rarely do I post links to other websites, but this one is so beneficial, I couldn’t resist. If you are interested in worship or lead worship at your church, Sovereign Grace has graciously posted 37 audio sessions on their website at: http://www.sovereigngraceministries.org/Events/WorshipConference.aspx Worship conferences usually cost several hundred dollars, so this is a blessing for those of us without … Read More
The Spirit As Our Interpreter
Language has never been a science. It is mysterious, beautiful, and often confusing. All of us are dependent upon language for communication — whether it be verbal or non-verbal. As language becomes both more diverse (due to globalization) and more unified (due to mass media), we are caught between understanding and misunderstanding. Historically, Christians have recognized that God primarily speaks … Read More
New Songs
Over the past two weeks, I wrote and recorded two new songs — “Tonight” and “Brand New.” Be sure to check them out. Both are available for $1 at DiscRevolt.com. http://www.discrevolt.com/albums/view/2334
American Truck Driving School
It turns out that someone found JoelJupp.com after searching via Google for “American truck driving school.” As absurd as it sounds, we actually have those things in common. First of all, I am American. Secondly, I have driven a truck. Thirdly, I like driving. Fourthly, I am in school for another master’s degree. Whoever it was, you rock, and thanks … Read More
Automated Art?
Animoto is kind of scary, yet also very cool. Using this service, you can insert photos and music, and it automatically creates a video. This is an extremely practical tool if you need a quick alternative to a slideshow. My guess is that these videos will soon be all over the internet. I suppose that some people would consider randomness … Read More
Art that Betters the World
In his closing comments at the Arise Arts Conference, Brian McLaren complimented Christian artists for “using the arts to better the church.” Most of us could agree with that because over the past 30 years the Church has made huge strides in music and arts in the church. There has been an improvement in quality and diversity, as seen in … Read More
You Are My Lord
Psalm 16, a golden psalm of David, is quickly becoming one of my favorite psalms. One of my favorite parts is verse 2, where David writes, “I said to the Lord, ‘You are my Lord, I have no good besides you.’ ” It is a simple reminder of how God should be exalted above all else in our lives — … Read More
On the Road Again — 3000 miles
Our daughter, Emberly Grace, was born on May 8th and what a miracle she is. I am overwhelmed with how surreal it is to be holding her. She is such a joy. The next day, May 9th, I checked my voice mail and learned that I am receiving a scholarship to seminary. I had been accepted for 5 years, but … Read More
Don’t Worry. God Will Bring You Home.
Yesterday, at about 2:30, a doctor told my wife, “Worst case scenario… you die.” They were worried about a blood clot in her leg. Needless to say, we were at the hospital for 8 hours, but the test results showed that nothing was wrong. She went home without needing any treatment at all. As some of you know, this scenario … Read More
New Worship Song
After several late-night recording sessions, “He Heard My Voice” was just added to my latest worship EP. You can check out a demo of the song and download it here: http://www.discrevolt.com/groups/view/3023 Enjoy!