OPPOSSING VIEWS ADDRESSED
By Steve Aguilar
Below are just some of the many opposing views we receive from visitors to our site.
If you are not in agreement with our ministry, please read through the following views,
as you may find that your view has already been addressed. If your view is not addressed
below, please send us an E-mail.
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EMAIL FROM: Kevin Campbell
I think you are mistaking somewhat cultured/thoughtful people (Some of
them anyway) for agents of the devil, all your arguments seem a little
paranoid to me. Think of it this way, "test everything and hold tight to
that which is good." maybe they are just in the testing phase, trying to
think for themselves. I think some of your writers could stand to be a
little more flexible and varied in their interpretations, rather than
trying to stuff every pigeon in the same hole.
All this fear mongering
seems to be just as much about self gratification as it is about
informing vulnerable people. goodfight.org's devotion and diligence is
commendable.
However I believe that blind, aggressive almost frenzied
faith to this degree, can only detract from the opportunity and
experience that God sent us here to realise. Or do you really think he
sent us here just for the exquisite chance to bury our head in the sand.
Many thanks for your time.
Kevin Campbell
FTGF RESPONSE:
Kevin,
Thanks for sharing your thoughts. I do agree with you to a certain degree, however, I always like to hear specific examples. Can you perhaps provide me with an example that supports your thoughts?
I do believe there are many artists that are ignorant to their ways and practices and sometimes promote evil things out of ignorance; however, even if the person is not promoting evil knowingly as well as intentionally it does not mean that they are not being used by Satan, even if it is in ignorance.
For example, If I strapped a bomb to myself and threatened people or I would actually go through with the threat and end up killing myself and others as well as injure many others - and all along I do this, completely convinced in my mind that "it's all a joke", "I don't really mean it" or perhaps I'm simply ignorant/deceived into believing that bombs aren't real. The bottom line is, I'm still being used for evil. No matter how ignorant/deceived I may be, the fact of the matter is, I'm hurting people, thus I was used as an instrument for evil. As strange or perhaps graphic as this analogy may seem - it's nothing compared to the real danger of what Satan desires to do to a person's soul...
1 Peter 5:7
Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil walks about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour.
After reading the verses below, stop and think of just how your logic of judgment would define John the Baptist, Jesus and The Apostle John…
Matthew 3
1 Now in those days John the Baptist came, preaching in the wilderness of Judea, saying, 2 "Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand."
John 3
36 "He who believes in the Son has eternal life; but he who does not obey the Son will not see life, but the wrath of God abides on him."
-John the Baptist
Matthew 12
36 "But I tell you that every careless word that people speak, they shall give an accounting for it in the day of judgment. 37 "For by your words you will be justified, and by your words you will be condemned."
-Jesus
1 John 2
22 Who is the liar but the one who denies that Jesus is the Christ? This is the antichrist, the one who denies the Father and the Son.
1 John 3
8 the one who practices sin is of the devil; for the devil has sinned from the beginning. The Son of God appeared for this purpose, to destroy the works of the devil.
1 John 5
19 We know that we are of God, and that the whole world lies in the power of the evil one.
-The Apostle John
Look forward to hearing from you again.
Steve Aguilar
EMAIL FROM: Gina Baillargeon, Riverside, CA
I have a question that I thought I was sure about until I heard your sermon on the Great Snatch - Post Tribulation.
When a believer dies, I thought they are with Jesus immediatly based on the verse about the thief on the cross with Jesus. But, when I heard your sermon about the Tribulation, it sounds like when you die, you are asleep or something until Jesus raises the dead in him. Can you clarify this for me please?
Gina Baillargeon
Riverside, CA
FTGF RESPONSE:
Gina,
My name is Steve Aguilar, I work with Pastor Joe Schimmel in the ministry.
I'll try to help with your understanding of the issue concerning where and
how a person exists after death. I'm not exactly sure of what you're referring
to in Pastor Joe's message, so I'll just explain what happens to a person when
they die...
According to Luke 16 we learn from Jesus Himself, that when a person died BEFORE
Jesus was crucified, they went to a place, which still exists today, called
Hades/Hell. Based on Luke 16 Hades/Hell is a place that consists of two
compartments. To help you imagine this, just picture a large aquarium with a
very thick glass separating it into two compartments. One side, a place of torment
due to flames, which is for people who die and did not follow the One True God,
which also means they don't hold to the promise of the coming Messiah/Jesus and
the other side, Abraham's bosom, a place for those who followed the one true God
whom of course, held to the promise of the coming Messiah/Jesus.
Now when Jesus was crucified, we learn from scripture (Eph 4:7-10, 1 Pet 3:18-19)
that during the 3 days and nights that Jesus' body was in the tomb, He descended
to the lower parts of the earth and set the captives free. Basically, Jesus went
to Hades/Hell (however, keep in mind that Jesus did not go into the torment
compartment)... On this point I must say, be careful, as there are word faith
teachers that teach that is was necessary for Jesus to go to the torment side of
Hades/Hell to become "born again" - that teaching is heretical!! Rather Jesus
descended to the Abraham's bosom side and set those believers
free (Ephesians 4:8-10)!! As a result - Abraham's bosom compartment is no longer
occupied nor has it been since! In fact, it becomes clear that even the thief on
the cross accompanied Jesus to Abraham's bosom and was also set free when Jesus
cleared it out.
Keep in mind that although the Abraham's bosom compartment is no longer filled,
nor receives the believing dead - the other compartment, the place of torment,
continues to this day to be filled with the souls of men and women that die
without Jesus as Lord and Savior.
Now, AFTER the cross, the scriptures teach that those that die become present
with the Lord
(Philippians 1:23, 2 Corinthians 5:8), so now when a person dies
they are immediately with the Lord.
In fact, remember when Stephen was stoned to death in Acts 7:55-60? We see
Stephen filled with the Holy Spirit and he sees Jesus "standing" at the right
hand of God and he says "Jesus, receive my spirit"... Here again we begin to
see that once a Christian dies they are present with the Lord. Now notice that
Stephen says "receive my SPIRIT" not "my body" or "me", he specifically says spirit.
When we die, we are with the Lord, however, we are not their physically, rather
in spirit and although we don't have physical bodies - according to the scriptures,
we certainly seem to have our senses in tact (Luke 16:25). The dead in Christ
do not have physical bodies until the Resurrection (Daniel 12:2, 1 Thessalonians 4:13-17),
which is on the Last day, as Martha stated in John 11:23-26).
Perhaps in Pastor Joe's message, you may of heard Joe refer to 1 Thessalonians 4
where Paul writes about those who are "Asleep". What you must keep in mind is
that the word "Asleep/Sleep" is a figure of speech called a euphemism. It's
basically a replacement word for another word that may seem too harsh or blunt.
If fact, notice in John 11 - Jesus uses the word "Sleeping" in reference to His
dear friend Lazarus who is dead. So here John 11 clearly teaches us that Lazarus
is dead, then we have Jesus turn and advise the disciples that
Lazarus "Sleeps" (John 11:11). The disciples, understandably, assume that Jesus
is simply saying that Lazarus is just resting or taking a nap. Jesus seeing
that the disciples don't understand what He means so then Jesus plainly
says "Lazarus is dead" (John 11:14).
Mark/Gina, I hope something in my response helps. If you have further questions
or if I just missed it altogether - please feel free to email me back or call
me directly at my office @ 805-520-5882. I'd be glad hear from you.
Lord bless.
Steve Aguilar
EMAIL FROM: Jody Kultgen...
To whom it may concern,
I was flipping through channels with my 7yr old son and one of your
stupid christian channels was playing that abortion video.
This is ridiculus, for you to play that kind of stuff on public t.v. Everyone has
there rights to believe what they want but do not show that smut on t.v. my
child was tramatized.
For the women who choose not to abort we have the right for our children to not see this. Fight your battle somewhere else.
You call yourselves christians but yet you don't take into consideration that young children are watching tv as well. Shame on you.
Jody Kultgen
FTGF RESPONSE:
Jody,
Thank you for taking the time to express your concern with our video expose entitled "They sold their souls for rock and roll". I'm quite familiar with the images your son viewed, and I'm saddened that such a young child viewed such graphic material, as it is very difficult for most adults to view.
However, I must point out a couple of things concerning your protest. In all fairness I must say, it is quite irresponsible of you, as an adult I presume, to be flipping through channels with your 7 year old child present.
It's no secret that public television airs programs and images that can be quite disturbing and traumatic to a 7 year old child. Something else that is not a secret is that such graphic images can be seen on Discovery Channel, Court TV, even on some "cartoons"... So please, do not attempt fault us with what your child was exposed to. Needless to say, our intent is NOT to someone how get 7 year olds who have irresponsible parents to view such content. Rather, our intent is to open the eyes of adults to the daily murders that take place in the United States of America.
You are correct when you write,
"Women who choose not to abort we have the right for our children to not see this",
However, I must reiterate that due to your irresponsible behavior you exposed your very own child to see with his own eyes the tragedy that plagues our country…
And yes, we do take into consideration that young children are watching television, we also hope and pray that more parents would watch TV responsibly. The bottom line is, your child does have the right to not see those abortion images - unfortunately, you violated your son's rights and allowed this to happen. As parents, we are our children's protectors, filters and safeguards. Unfortunately, you failed in your role as such. As parents we can all make mistakes from time to time - the important things is for us to learn from them so we don't repeat them.
Jody, protecting your child from graphic images on television is your job, not ours. Our job/role as Christians is to expose the many wicked practices and deceptions that exist in society today, in order to turn the hearts of many towards the One that can save their soul, Jesus Christ.
I say this with love and sincere concern for both you and your child - if you continue the practice of "flipping through channels" with your "7 yr old son" present, please know that you are playing a visual type of "Russian roulette" with his young mind, as well as yours. Please be responsible and guard your son's heart as well as yours. There are too many vulgar, profane and pornographic images on television that neither you nor your child should be exposed to...
"I will set nothing wicked before my eyes" Psalm 101:3
In His service,
Steve Aguilar
EMAIL FROM: Nathalie Winberg...
...Would probably not call a whole country antichrist or satanic..
...would probably also realize that you can like a rock and roll lifestyle and still be deeply into your religion..
...would also realize that religion has nothing to do with clothes or haircuts or colour...
...Wouldn't open his or her mouth and say that something satanic has anything to do with the devil, if they knew anythin about it at all...
...would also not force people to join the church or believe what they believe...
...and he or she wouldn't promote the hatred of an entire nation that is better in so many ways than the united states or hipocracy could ever be.
People like yourself is what makes people turn away from God, Joe. I would never want to be in a congregation with a minister that was so narrow minded and full of hate.
Nathalie Winberg
Sweden
FTGF RESPONSE:
Nathalie,
You may find this hard to believe, but I agree with you. As you can imagine, I need to qualify this statement, but first, please know that even though I don't know you personally - I care for you. I am also very concerned that you have been offended by what you have read (Swede Jeans Promote Satanism Among Youth). I truly respect your right to believe in any religion, lifestyle, etc that you choose. If I met you on the street and didn't agree with your clothes, language, etc - I'd still talk to you and be kind to you... In fact, I'd even have lunch with you. The bottom line is that you are a human being and so am I. If you were open to hearing about my faith - I would definitely share in detail, if you were not, I'd respect that.
I write the following in truth and love, without any malice.
To begin, our article does not state that everyone in Sweden is 'anti-christ'.
To a degree, sure someone can enjoy the rock and roll lifestyle and be deeply into a religion, however, if that lifestyle involves drugs, sex outside of marriage, living a front that implies demonic inspiration (done just for the look or stage), etc. well now it violates Christian conduct and would be unacceptable to God. Now if this r&r lifestyle was simply a desired look (hairstyle, clothes [without demonic symbols, etc] shoes, color of hair, nails etc etc) and the person enjoys Christian rock/rap/country, etc and lives a moral Christian life based on the scriptures, well then hey - go for it!
As mentioned above, I agree clothes and hair color don't have anything to do with religion, so long as it doesn't violate Christian morality as mentioned above. Personally, some radical hair colors look pretty cool to me!
I'm not sure exactly what is meant by the point of saying something satanic has something to with the devil...? But if this helps, anything that contradicts God is essentially 'anti-christ' (1 john) and thus originates from Satan. Now I know that may sound very narrow and perhaps even stupid... But I truly believe that there are two supernatural "forces", if you will, that exist spiritually - one being of God and the other of Satan.
I totally agree that no one should 'force' anyone to join a church or to believe what they believe!!! That basically describes what the Catholics did through their crusades. Unless I missed it, the article does NOT attempt to "force" anyone to do anything of the sort.
No one is trying to promote hatred. In fact, when I hear or share of the extreme persecutions against Christians in countries such as China, Philippines, Saudi Arabia, etc. I encourage people to pray not only for the Christians, but also for the persecutors - that they would know the love of God and be saved.
Now you mentioned something about the U.S. and hypocrisy - not sure what you meant, but I'll say this - the U.S. in my opinion is in extreme danger of judgment and "legally" is practicing extreme hypocrisy!!! The blood of millions and millions of murdered unborn babies is crying out to God and the lack of Christian morality in our society is at the edge. The U.S. is leading the way of anti-Christian morals. Now that's not to say that everyone in the U.S. is anti-Christ, yet the majority are. In fact, I personally have relatives that contribute to the behavior I just stated - I still love them and care for them and pray for them. But the reality is that the majority of Americans are not living true biblical Christian lives.
I can imagine how you feel, especially if you are not a Christian, because before I became a Christian the kind of people that turned me off to Christianity were simply the kind that were happy all the time and praying for everyone and so on and so on! In fact, I remember the nicest group of ladies I had ever met, were my coworkers, years ago - they were constantly talking about Jesus and if they made a mistake or dropped something while working they'd make remarks like Oh Sweet Jesus, Lord help me etc etc!! It used to make me sick and angry! Yet they were the nicest ladies I'd ever met. I always felt as if they thought they were better than me or that they looked down on me - yet they would always put up with my profanity and my "hang-over attitudes" and if I was still wired on coke or drunk when I showed up for work they would lovingly give me my space. Oh, and believe me, they would warn me from time to time to change my ways - they'd even encourage me to go to a church. When they were firm they were firm but they balanced it with genuine concern and love. I later realized that I felt so attacked and personally rejected because of the fact that they disagreed with my sinful life not me personally as a human being!
Now I don't know you personally at all, I don't even know if you are Christian, were a Christian, or couldn't care less about becoming a Christian. But I'll say this - you are human being, therefore I care for you.
Please know that Pastor Joe Schimmel writes from a heart that sincerely cares and is not filled with hatred, for some it may "appear" that way, but trust me, I know the man and his family - I often spend time with him, as we work together and I assure you, he is a man with a heart of love. His style may not be for everyone, I'll give you that! After all some of the nicest ladies I knew were over the top for me!
Nathalie, if there is ever anything further you'd like to discuss - I'd be more than glad to correspond with you! In fact, if you see anything offered on our ecommerce store (goodfight.org) that you think you may be interested in, please let me know and I'll arrange for there to be no charge for anything you desire to have - all I'll need is a mailing address.
Thank you for reading this through and I look forward to hearing from you again.
Steve Aguilar
GUESTBOOK POST FROM: Agnostic Visitor
FTGF RESPONSE:
Dear Agnostic Visitor,
Below is your guestbook post in purple italics along with my responses in white...
If you really believe music can be a possible avenue for Satan to work his evil,
And you also believe that Satan is powerful enough to be God's adversary (at least more powerful
than you or I), then wouldn't it be reasonable to believe that ALL MUSIC could be tainted by Satan in some way?
This includes Gospel music, children's music, rock'n'roll, country, metal, heavy metal, industrial, r&b, soul, jazz,
Rap, classical, new age, pop, disco, latin, 2-step, fiddle, etc. etc. etc.
The scriptures do not limit the type of music that is alludes to being tainted. It describes all music.
Humans can not go about with a selective consistency. Some might say that is like "All music is bad, except the music I listen too, because I'm Holy, and follow God's word." You may be Holy, and you may follow God's word, but that doesn't make you infallable.
The above is not too far from the truth, in fact, your understanding is further along than most of the negative comments I receive from professing believers. It is reasonable to believe that it is possible that "ALL MUSIC could be tainted by Satan in some way", however, allow me to qualify my quoting that statement. I'm currently preparing an article addressing the very topic of where a person should draw the line when it comes to music that is 'acceptable' and whether or not there is in fact a distinct line to be found (e.g., rock vs classical/country etc., fast beats vs slower ones, major chords vs minor etc etc). Without going into detail, I'll put in a nutshell.
To determine what music is "tainted by Satan" (I'll use your term for the sake of discussion), one must examine multiple areas….
1. Do the lyrics glorify God? In the scriptures you'll find angels singing for joy at creation, you'll also find instruction for God to be praised with instruments and for believers to sing spiritual songs and psalms, sing and make melody in your heart to the Lord, etc (Job 38:4-7, Psalm 150, Ephesians 5:19) - so one biblically based bottom line is the lyrics should glorify God.
2. Do the artists glorify God in the sense that they are not finding their inspiration for their music by way of Satan directly or practicing 'automatic writing', channeling or simply living wicked lives of partying, pre/extra marital sex etc. if this is the case, the source of their inspiration is not of God - nor are they glorifying God, thus we should have nothing to do with them (Ephesians 5:11, 2 Corinthians 6:14, James 4:4). So a second biblically based bottom line is that the artists themselves should glorify God.
3. The style of music based on what it creates in the listener's heart/mind. In other words what you find tasteful and edifying, the next person may find it to provoke anger, depression, impure thoughts, etc. Thus we should avoid anything that is spiritually hindering and hold fast to that which causes us to glorify God (Ephesians 5:15-18, Philippians 4:8, James 4:7). This third biblically based bottom line is determined by what a specific style of music produces in a person's heart.
The above are conditions based on the biblical principles of scripture, however, allow me to expand on the third point…
Let's say you have found some music that passes the first two conditions, in fact, let's say it's "Christian rap music". You may find that the artists are solid and their lyrics are pure scripture and you just love it and find it totally edifying for yourself. Well that might be fine and dandy for you, however, what about the person that doesn't care for the whole "rap" scene, style of music, etc??
Take myself for example, before I was saved, rap music was very much a part of my life. I'm talking about rap music of the most vulgar, profane, hate-filled type. It would fill my head with arrogance, anger, racism etc. Now as can be imagined, as a Christian, rap music sometimes makes me cringe, in fact, it brings a sense of shame simply by the remembrance of being so wrapped up in it (no pun intended).
You see, if you couple my past musical preferences with today's "Christian rap" what do you have? You have a person drawing a personal line concerning a particular style of music. Christian rap does nothing for me, quite frankly, my personal opinion of it is - I don't really care for it. Now keep in mind that this is how I personally feel about it, therefore, my drawing a line at Christian rap, is my personal line that I have drawn for myself - based on biblical principles. Now for me to attempt to force this same line on other people is not my place - it would equate to legalism. You see there is a gray area of sorts with music, after music meets the first two conditions listed above, which equate to glorifying God, it then comes down to the question of whether or not the music causes a glorification of God within one's heart.
Surely you can relate to this gray area by simply thinking of a style of music or perhaps a specific song that causes you to feel sad, angry etc. whether it's a style or a specific artist that causes this, then that's where you personally draw your line.
Bottom line: Music, which meets the biblical principles outlined throughout scripture (points 1&2 above), which might be spiritually edifying for one person, may very well be spiritually hindering to another person.
So can Christian music be tainted by Satan? Please understand, Christian rock, Christian rap, etc., which meet the first two biblically based conditions mentioned above, are not bad in and of themselves, in fact, it could be found to be some of the most spiritually uplifting type of music for some. However, based on someone's past experience, or simply the type of heart set that is produced by hearing a specific artist or style of Christian music - an individual can be caused to stumble spiritually, therefore, one should draw, for themselves, a line.
All this being said, you may ask "well what if I want to listen to something that is acceptable to me and not to the passengers in my car?" Well, on that point simple common biblical courtesy is in order - refer to Romans chapter 14 (read the entire chapter).
I've read the Bible, and if one was to really follow God's word, they wouldn't own even the clothes on their back, would be a pauper, and go about in the world as an innocent child without concern for ANY worldly goods at all. (TV, Radio, CD's, Tapes, DVD, MUSIC, FOOD (other than that given to you by a sympathizer), SHELTER, or in general all of Maslow's Heirarchy of needs.
The bible does not call us to live as extremely poor people living off of others provisions and it certainly does not compare a human's needs with that of a monkey! Actually the bible teaches us the opposite of what you just described. It teaches that we are to earn a living, yet not strive to the point that one desires to be rich. Notice what the bible has to say concerning issues such as food, clothing, etc.:
Proverbs 30:8
…Give me neither poverty nor riches-- Feed me with the food allotted to me; Lest I be full and deny You, And say, "Who is the Lord?" Or lest I be poor and steal, And profane the name of my God.
1 Timothy 5:8
But if anyone does not provide for his own, and especially for those of his household, he has denied the faith and is worse than an unbeliever.
2 Thessalonians 3:8-10
nor did we eat anyone's bread free of charge, but worked with labor and toil night and day, that we might not be a burden to any of you, not because we do not have authority, but to make ourselves an example of how you should follow us. For even when we were with you, we commanded you this: If anyone will not work, neither shall he eat.
1 Timothy5:17
Instruct those who are rich in this present world not to be conceited or to fix their hope on the uncertainty of riches, but on God, who richly supplies us with all things to enjoy.
1 Corinthians 16:2
On the first day of every week each one of you is to put aside and save, as he may prosper,
Proverbs 31:16, 24
She considers a field and buys it; From her profits she plants a vineyard.
She makes linen garments and sells them, And supplies sashes for the merchants.
The above scriptures teach that we are to be content with having enough, not desiring riches nor poverty, to provide for households, prospering is not a bad thing and to take responsibility for our provisions, at the same time trusting God for all things.
If Satan is a deceiver, then who is to say that you are not deceiving yourselves?
We at Fight the Good Fight Ministries determine truth by searching the scriptures. We hold fast to the bible being the inerrant word of God.
Just 2 cents from an agnostic view.
Thank you for your "2 cents", it was greatly appreciated. Please know that your "2 cents" is much more valuable then 2 pennies, as it has allowed us to correspond on a very important issue concerning God's will - giving us the opportunity to explain our position in a more detailed manner. However, what makes it more valuable is not only that it has given you the opportunity to hear what God, who does exists, has to say on this issue but more importantly to hear this...
God not only exists, as the evidence all around us reveals (Psalm 119, Romans 1:20), but He also created you. He loves you so much that He gave His Only Son, Jesus, so that you may have the option to repent and receive eternal life through Jesus (John 3:16-17). Now please know this, He does not want you to suffer the consequences (2 Peter 3:9-10) nor will he force you to receive Him (Matthew 23:37) - the choice is yours. Now you might say you simply don't believe He exists, and I can understand your position to a certain degree (1 Corinthians 1:18), however, please don't resist His calling to you (Revelation 3:20). This may be one of many ways He has already attempted to get your attention, in fact, this could very well be the last attempt. Please search the scriptures thoroughly (Romans 1:16) before coming to a conclusion that He doesn't exist because the bible clearly teaches that should you reject Him you will be cast into everlasting torment (Revelation 21:8). The bible says:
Phil 2:10-11
that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of those in heaven, and of those on earth, and of those under the earth, and that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.
In other words, everyone is going to bow his or her knees to Jesus, the problem is, if you wait until after you're dead - it will be in shameful recognition that He was your only hope (John 14:6) and you chose not to believe (John 3:36) thus you will suffer eternal damnation (Hebrews 9:27)...
The good news is, if you bow down now and receive Jesus as your Lord and Savior (Romans 10:9-10) you can enter heaven and have eternal life in the presence of the Lord. The choice is yours.
In truth and love,
Steve Aguilar
(Titus 1:9) comments@goodfight.org
EMAIL FROM:Laura
Subject: mistakes in the Tori Amos "expose"
FTGF RESPONSE:
Hi Laura, Thanks for expressing your views.
I personally enjoy the opportunity to examine opposing views to our website as it gives
me the opportunity to explain in greater detail our positions on the different issues.
Below is your email along with my responses.
I bolded my responses simply to make it easier for you to read.
Hello,
I am well aware that you are probably going to delete and ignore this message, as I know you have done to
some of my fellow Tori Amos fans. Despite the fact that they were polite, kind, and simply pointing our
errors in your "expose" about Tori, you deleted their messages from the guestbook, simply because they did
not share your beliefs.
We are not deleting yours nor anyone's message, in fact we are
collecting all guestbook posts, as we will soon be addressing opposing views that have
been posted. At the end of this email, you will find an OPEN LETTER that I will soon be
posting to address the issue of certain guestbook posts not being posted - it's a
rough draft so please excuse the grammatical errors.
However, I still feel I need to clear something up. Your "expose" on Tori Amos
is full of quotes taken out of context, misinterpreted, and twisted around to fit
your own agenda. I thought that perhaps you would appreciate it if a Tori fan
cleared some things up for you.
Here goes:
1. The Mary Magdalene issue. There is a great deal of
evidence suggesting that, yes, Jesus and Mary M did
have a relationship. Most theological and Biblical
scholars, Christian and non-Christian, accept this as
a valid theory. Not a fact, but a theory. It is
further supported by the Gnostic Gospels. If you know
anything about the history of the Bible, you would
realize that, in terms of describing Jesus's life and
times, the Gnostic gospels are just as valid as the
Gospels you use. It's not so blasphemous. It's simply
an archeological theory. It does nothing to undermine
Jesus's divinity or make him any less holy.
The "Mary Magdalene issue" isn't
even one (an issue). There is absolutely no evidence whatsoever to support a sexual
relationship between Mary and Jesus. If it's a theory held by anyone, then it's about
as valid as the theory that man evolved from a monkey. If you find any "theological scholars"
that hold to this possible view - they would no doubt be very liberal, not holding to the
inerrancy of scripture. Instead of mentioning that there is evidence to support this view,
please provide it. In Jewish rabbinical writings you will find that Jesus is referred to
as a bastard because he was born as a result of an alleged pre-marital relationship between
Joseph and Mary - obviously this is not true, based on scripture, thus one shouldn't go
around and claim any possible validity to such nonsense - likewise the "theory" of
Jesus having a sexual relationship.
2. You have completely misunderstood Tori's quote
about her desire to expose the dark side of
Christianity. She does not want to spread lies about
it; on the contrary, she wants to tell the truth. The
dark side Tori wishes to expose is that of the
Crusades, the Inquisition, the witch trials. The
murders and rapes and burnings that Jesus would never,
ever support. The terrible, horrible, shameful things
done in the name of Christianity. Tori wants
Christianity and its followers to recognize those
periods in history. That's it. She just wants the
world to realize that the past 2000 years of
Christianity are sadly lacking in, "Love thy neighbor"
and "Thou shalt not kill." You completely
misunderstood her. She has no desire to destroy
Christianity. She simply wants its history to be
recognized, both the good and the bad parts.
The above does not justify her quote, this is made clear simply by
examining many other quotes from her, her lyrics, as well as what she believes.
To attempt equate any violent or ungodly act to true Christianity is absurd. So often,
one tries to "expose" Christianity by pointing to the crusades, witch burnings, etc. -
all of this is not Christianity - these people were obviously fulfilling a man's agenda and
NOT abiding by the Word of God. Thus, this argument against Christianity falls short.
True Christianity does not violate God's word (the bible). God does not cause hypocrisy,
men who choose rebellion are to blame. Imagine as a public speaker, you spread the
message to love people, to have compassion, etc. and yet a person who's heard your
message went out and killed someone - in your name, saying that you spoke to him or her while they
were in prayer and received a message from you to kill, yet all along that kind of behavior
is wicked to you. How much sense would it make for me to label this person's actions as
"your dark side" or a dark side to all the people that truly agree with your message and
apply it to their lives? The answer, of course is, it makes no sense at all.
3. Tori's quote, "Why don't people want to hear about
God getting a blow job? I thought those born-again
Christians would love that." was intended
sarcastically. She was joking. She did not mean it
seriously, it was a JOKE. On top of that, nowhere in
her music does she write about God recieving a
blowjob.
Let's say that was a joke - has she clarified anywhere that she was
only joking? Even if there was evidence that she was joking it was perverse joking.
How "spiritual" can this woman be with such vulgarity spewing out of her mouth?
The bible says...
Matthew 12:33-37
"Either make the tree good and its fruit good,
or else make the tree bad and its fruit bad; for a tree is known by its fruit.
Brood of vipers! How can you, being evil, speak good things? For out of the abundance
of the heart the mouth speaks. A good man out of the good treasure of his heart brings
forth good things, and an evil man out of the evil treasure brings forth evil things.
But I say to you that for every idle word men may speak, they will give account of it
in the day of judgment. For by your words you will be justified, and BY YOUR WORDS
YOU WILL BE CONDEMNED."
4. Perhaps the best example of shoddy journalism and
of selective editing is your paragraph on her song
"Spark," in which she sings, "If the divine master
plan is perfection, Maybe next I'll give Judas a try."
Tori is not saying, "I want to be like Judas." You
need to understand what the song is about first. Tori
suffered a miscarriage in late 1996. She was looking
forward to the baby and was devastated when she lost
it. She held herself responsible for the miscarriage,
since she got pregnant around the end of her 1996 tour
and wasn't very healthy. She didn't take as good care
of herself as she should have, she was under a lot of
stress, and she wasn't eating right. "Spark" is about
the miscarriage. Look on any website with quotes about
the album ("Spark" is off of "From the Choirgirl
Hotel"), and you will see her talking about it. Tori's
line about Judas is not saying she wants to betray
Jesus. She feels like she betrayed the baby. Tori uses
a lot of mythological and religious references in her
music, and this is a prime example. If you hear the
whole song or read the rest of the lyrics, you would
understand. I'll say it again: Tori does not want to
betray Jesus or become Judas. She felt like Judas
after losing the baby, since she blamed herself for it
and felt she'd betrayed her child.
I have not yet seen or heard Tori deny or clarify the lyrics.
You, however, seem to be convinced otherwise, perhaps you can provide us with the
evidence/documentation to support your claims?
Regardless, her lyrics expose her disregard for the scriptures/God.
If she had any reverence towards God, and has realized that many are deceived by
these lyrics, why is this song still out there? Why hasn't she had it been pulled off the
shelves or at least make a public correction? Something to think about.
5. You have also misunderstood Tori's quote, "I wanted
to marry Lucifer... I don't consider Lucifer an evil
force...I feel his presence with his music. I feel
like he comes and sits on my piano..." I see you've
edited it as well. Hmm. Anyways, Tori does NOT
consider Lucifer an evil force. When she talks about
Lucifer, she does not mean the Christian concept of
him. She means the original pagan concept, the one of
a god of light, the one which Christianity borrowed
and twisted to fit its own needs. And, as I have said
before, Tori often speaks with tounge-in-cheek humour,
and it can be hard to tell if she's joking when
reading an interview. The chances are that she was
joking or speaking sarcastically.
Notice what you're attempting to do! You're justifying a few things - First you accept her
view about some "paganistic concept" of Lucifer - then you seem to express your view that
Christianity is "error" and has twisted scripture, etc and lastly you base
all of this on a "chance" as you say "chances are that she was joking or speaking
sarcastically". Here you are with no solid idea what Tori was saying and/or meaning and
yet you take the time to write an email to defend a person that is cleary influenced
by supernatural forces - supernatural forces which CANNOT be of the One and true God,
as everything you've attempted to defend contradicts God.
6. I was also angered with how you twisted around one
of Tori's quote in your article about Eminem. What's
kind of amusing is that there are tons of quotes you
could have taken from her to support your position. In
fact, Tori will be covering an Eminem song (97 Bonnie
& Clyde) on her upcoming album, in an effort to expose
how disgusting the song is. If you look around on Tori
Amos websites, you can find several quotes pertaining
to this song and how it horrified her. The rest of
your Eminem article was as ridiculous, if not more so,
than your Tori Amos one. You don't seem to understand
sarcasm. Eminem uses sarcasm in half of his songs.
Even I know that, and I despise Eminem.
To justify Tori, your hope lies in that she is simply truly being
sarcastic. It is this kind of deception, which you seem to be under, that greives us here at
Fight the Good Fight Ministries.
That's all I have to say to you right now. I'm aware
that you will probably ignore this and write me off as
another Satanic, Tori Amos-loving heathen who needs to
be prayed for. That's fine. Think whatever you want about me.
Laura, You have not been ignored. I make every attempt to respond to
individuals that provide me with an email address. You do, however, need prayer -
I say this in truth and love Laura. If you are truly embracing the lie that Christianity
is error, then you're essentially rejecting Jesus. Jesus died so that you might have life.
The bible says that to those who receive Him, He gives the right to become children of
God (John 1:12) - and the bible doesn't talk about some superficial "believing in Jesus" to be saved.
The bible goes on to say that "even the demons believe in God" (James 2:19), furthermore, the bible makes it
clear that demons are not saved.
However, I have been able to point out
errors all over your Tori Amos page. If you do not
believe me or trust my points, there are plenty of
Tori Amos websites where you can verify them. If you
don't want to change your Tori section, fine. Keep the
incorrect information and mislead people. But honestly
- do you really want to misinform people in the name
of Jesus Christ?
Have a nice day. Laura
Based on what you provided, I have to strongly disagree with your
claim that you "have been able to point out errors all over" our Tori Amos page.
However, if you strongly disagree with me as well - then please provide us with some
solid evidence/documentation to support your claims.
Laura, thank you for taking the time to email us and thanks for expressing yourself in a clear and mature manner - I point this out because much of the email that is disagreement with us is quite vulgar and profane.
Have you been able to view our video expose, "they sold their souls for rock and roll"? If not, and you are interested in viewing it, simply provide me with a mailing address and I'll arrange to have a free copy shipped to you.
Thanks again Laura.
Steve Aguilar
(Titus 1:9) comments@goodfight.org
EMAIL FROM:jesse fasano...
First of all, I am not going to judge you or you will turn that around and use what I say to judge myself. I would just like to say that your "justification" for judging others is taken from your own mind and not from the scripture you hold so dear. Though these artists may be "on their way to hell", are you not supposed to help them find their way to heaven through Jesus? I have spoken to many like you who find ways to justify themselves and their ideas by twisting scripture to their own means. What I don't understand is how you can take words straight from the Bible twisting them until their meanings are senseless. Either way I look at your reasoning I cannot see through your false and at times absurd judgments.
Another aspect of your judgments that urks me a bit is that you wave your e-mail address in front of people expecting them to help support your dumbfounded ideologies and philosophies. You purposely hang yourselves out to be judged so you can call those who judge you evil. Don't you understand that Jesus preached love and understanding, rather than judgment and abomination? Though he never says "do not judge" he makes it perfectly clear that human beings are not ones to judge. The scripture you include in your "examination" of those who speak ill of yourselves perfectly reflects what one is supposed to do and what I have mentioned above. God is the first judgment, and is the last judgment. God can hate. We, being "his creation" cannot. God can cast the first stone, he can cast the last stone, we cannot. Even if someone is right with God they will again be against God as they turn and judge another.
Last of all, I don't believe that your ministry is bringing anyone, truly closer to God. All it is doing is alienating those who don't prescribe to Christianity. Instead of bringing those people closer to a relationship with God and His Son, you would rather push them away, loudly exclaiming your self-righteousness. Sure some of these people would rather slander God then embrace him, but your philosophy is pushing them even further. These people aren't possessed by the demons of hell, they are rather on the wrong path and need to be shown the light to the straight and narrow. This is true according to your beliefs. Is it not?
I would love to hear a retort from you, I even demand that you to write me back. I want to hear more of your cock-eyed view of Christianity and the Bible. Life is too short to hate, why not love each other and bring each other closer to God rather them pushing them away with pointed fingers and self-righteousness? Thankyou,
P.S. I am one of those you would label evil. I play that nasty rock and roll music, and even embrace it as a means to love someone else. And if you'll notice I was true to my word and did not slander or degrade you in any manner. I only insulted your philosophy and in turn did not cast a judgment upon you. You should be loved just like anyone else.
jesse fasano
gray noise records, http://www.graynoise.net
e-mail: jesse@graynoise.net, phone: 303-670-1846 29731 Stagecoach Blvd. Evergreen, CO 80439
FTGF RESPONSE:
Considering you profess to be a Christian, then you should have
no objection in holding the bible as the inerrant word of God, thus I expect
for you to support your claims, compromise and false allegations with
scripture.
"First of all, I am not going to judge you or you will turn that
around and use what I say to judge myself."
By all means judge me, as the apostle Paul said, "You judge what I
say" 1 Corinthians 10:15 and as the scriptures I provided in my
article on judging teach, we as Christians are to judge, remember, it was Jesus
Himself who said to "judge with righteous judgment" John 7:24.
"I would just like to say that your "justification" for
judging others is taken from your own mind and not from the scripture you hold
so dear."
The burden of proving that we as Christians are NOT to judge is in your
hands. Scripture clearly commands and lays out patterns of how to judge.
Your claim that it is from my "own mind and not from scripture" is
completely false. On this issue, I challenge you to support your accusation
with scripture - and before you attempt to search, allow me to provide
you with scriptures that teach the complete opposite of your erroneous view.
Also keep in mind that you will be faced with the task of explaining away, if
not misinterpreting the following scriptures…
Romans 16:17-18
Now I urge you, brethren, note those who cause divisions and offenses,
contrary to the doctrine which you learned, and avoid them. For those who are such do not serve our Lord Jesus Christ, but their own
belly, and by smooth words and flattering speech deceive the hearts of the
simple.
2 peter 2:17 (context = speaking of false prophets)
These are springs without water and mists driven by a storm, for whom
the black darkness has been reserved. For speaking out
arrogant {words}of vanity they entice by fleshly desires, by sensuality,
those who barely escape from the ones who live in error, promising them freedom
while they themselves are slaves of corruption
1 Corinthians 5:11
But actually, I wrote to you not to associate
with any so-called brother if he is an immoral person, or covetous, or an
idolater, or a reviler, or a drunkard, or a swindler -- not even to eat with
such a one.
2 Corinthians 6:14-15
Do not be bound together with unbelievers;
for what partnership have righteousness and lawlessness, or what
fellowship has light with darkness? Or what harmony has Christ with
Belial, or what has a believer in common with an unbeliever
The following scriptures reveal Paul exposing/judging men as well as
providing their names...
2 timothy 3
But realize this, that in the last days difficult times
will come. For men will be lovers of self, lovers of
money, boastful, arrogant, revilers, disobedient to parents, ungrateful, unholy,
unloving, irreconcilable, malicious gossips, without self-control,
brutal, haters of good, treacherous, reckless, conceited, lovers of
pleasure rather than lovers of God, holding to a form of godliness,
although they have denied its power; AVOID SUCH MEN AS THESE.
For among them are those who enter into households and captivate weak women
weighed down with sins, led on by various impulses, always
learning and never able to come to the knowledge of the truth. Just
as Jannes and Jambres opposed Moses, so these {men}also oppose the truth, men
of depraved mind, rejected in regard to the faith. But they
will not make further progress; for their folly will be obvious to all, just as
Jannes's and Jambres's folly was also.
2 timothy 4:10
for Demas, having loved this present world, has deserted me
2 timothy 4
Alexander the coppersmith did me much harm; the
Lord will repay him according to his deeds. Be on guard
against him yourself, for he vigorously opposed our teaching.
2 timothy 2
But avoid worldly {and}empty chatter, for it will lead
to further ungodliness, and their talk will
spread like gangrene. Among them are Hymenaeus and Philetus,
{men}who have gone astray from the truth
1 timothy 1:19-20
keeping faith and a good conscience, which some have
rejected and suffered shipwreck in regard to their faith.
Among these are Hymenaeus and Alexander, whom I have handed over to
Satan, so that they will be taught not to blaspheme.
So here we have Paul exposing some individuals and warning of their
deceptive ways, and so that there is no question in regards to whom he’s
speaking about, he names the individuals, and again he shares details about
their error/sin. Notice the statement "I have handed them over to Satan"
- what we have here, is these men are in willful sin, they are in a state of
willful unrepentance - for example read the following…
1 Corinthians 5:1-6
It is actually reported that there is
sexual immorality among you, and such sexual immorality as is not even
named among the Gentiles--that a man has his father's wife!
And you are puffed up, and have not rather mourned, that he who has done
this deed might be taken away from among you. For I indeed,
as absent in body but present in spirit, HAVE ALREADY JUDGED (as though
I were present) him who has so done this deed. In the
name of our Lord Jesus Christ, when you are gathered together, along with
my spirit, with the power of our Lord Jesus Christ, deliver such a one
to Satan for the destruction of the flesh, that his spirit may be saved in the
day of the Lord Jesus. Your glorying is not good. Do
you not know that a little leaven leavens the whole lump?
The above scripture unravels your idea of NOT judging!
Take special notice that...
1. Paul is blown away that they have allowed sexual immorality to exist
among them.
2. Paul makes a judgment on this guy because of his sin
3. Paul, and you can’t deny this Jesse, tells the Corinthians that they
are to make the same kind of judgments and even deliver such a one to Satan!!
IN OTHER WORDS, WHEN A PERSON IS WILLFULLY SINNING, WE, AS CHRISTIANS, ARE TO EXPOSE
THEM AND LET THEM GO THEIR WAY WITH SATAN, SO THAT THEY CAN, SADLY ENOUGH, LEARN THE HARD
WAY AND POSSIBLY COME TO A REPENTANT STATE OF MIND/HEART!!
Perhaps you can begin to see why we aren’t playing phone tag, chasing down
these artists or attempting to set up impossible to get meetings with many of these
artists.
"Though these artists may be "on their way to hell", are you
not supposed to help them find their way to heaven through Jesus? I have spoken
to many like you who find ways to justify themselves and their ideas by
twisting scripture to their own means."
What you fail to realize is the objective of our ministry, and the
reality of the individuals we deal with and the spiritual positions they hold,
which promote Satanism, rebellion towards God, Idolatry, sexual immorality,
etc. etc. Our objective is to win the lost that are deceived by the artists we
expose, as well as to call professing Christians to an uncompromising Christian
walk, which can result in damnation.
"What I don't understand is how you can take words straight from the
Bible twisting them until their meanings are senseless. Either way I look at
your reasoning I cannot see through your false and at times absurd judgments."
Again, Jesse, the burden of showing error in our interpretation of
scripture is in your hands, thus far you have neither supported your views
with scripture, nor have you exposed any error on our part, utilizing scripture
to support your claims. Please know, we are open to corrections, whether
it’s regarding one of our expose articles, facts within them or an
interpretation of scripture.
"Another aspect of your judgments that urks me a bit is that you wave
your e-mail address in front of people expecting them to help support your
dumbfounded ideologies and philosophies. You purposely hang yourselves out to
be judged so you can call those who judge you evil."
"Wave our email address in front of people"??
Is that wrong? We want to encourage dialogue with the lost as well as the saved that are being
deceived by demonically inspired music. Take yourself for example, we want to
help you understand that if you believe you can embrace the world and walk with
Jesus at the same time - then your understanding of what the Lord desires from you
is tweaked. The bible says...
James 4:4
You adulteresses, DO YOU NOT KNOW THAT FRIENDSHIP WITH THE WORLD IS
HOSTILITY TOWARD GOD? Therefore WHOEVER WISHES TO BE A FRIEND OF THE WORLD
MAKES HIMSELF AN ENEMY OF GOD.
There are people out there that really don’t see the danger in embracing
the world. There is a major difference in being in the world and not OF the
world.
Take Demus for example, he was a fellow worker of Paul’s (see Philemon
24) and in 2 Timothy 4:10 Paul states
that "Demus has
forsaken me, having loved this present world…" - in the original Greek
language - now get this Jesse as it speaks directly to your situation
- the words loved this present world - means that he loved
socializing with the world! NOW JESSE, AS A PROFESSING CHRISTIAN - IF THIS DOESN'T
HELP YOU RECONSIDER YOUR SOCIALIZING AT PUNKNEWS.ORG AND THE POSITION YOU TAKE ALONG
SIDE OF THE MANY AT THAT SITE - THEN I DON'T KNOW WHAT WILL.
"Don't you understand that Jesus preached love and understanding,
rather than judgment and abomination? Though he never says "do not
judge" he makes it perfectly clear that human beings are not ones to
judge. The scripture you include in your "examination" of those who
speak ill of yourselves perfectly reflects what one is supposed to do and what
I have mentioned above. God is the first judgment, and is the last judgment.
God can hate. We, being "his creation" cannot. God can cast the first
stone, he can cast the last stone, we cannot. Even if someone is right with God
they will again be against God as they turn and judge another."
Jesse, it’s important that you see the error in your statements above.
Jesus preached more about hell (judgment) than he did about heaven and his first
recorded words of his public ministry were "REPENT for the kingdom of
heaven is at hand" (Matthew 4:13) - He started by warning the
lost. In fact, consider some of the judgment calls Jesus made...
John 8:44 (speaking to the Pharisees)
You are of {your}father the devil...
And check out Matthew 23 (read the entire chapter), here Jesus
does some serious judging...
Matthew 23:15
"Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees,
hypocrites, because you travel around on sea and land to make one
proselyte; and when he becomes one, you make him twice as much a son of hell
as yourselves.
Throughout chapter 23 Jesus uses the term hypocrites numerous
times! He also calls them blind guides, Sons of hell, Fools and blind. Now check
out verse 33...
33 "You serpents, you brood of vipers,
HOW WILL YOU ESCAPE THE SENTENCE OF HELL?
You see, Jesus is dealing with some seriously hard hearts, men who
are content with a self-centered religion, rituals, being self-righteous, men
that were not interested in what God had to say - they were men pushing their
own agenda. Likewise, the artists we expose, whether deceived, or
deceiving are adamant about promoting their sinful lifestyles which vary from
new age thought, Satanism, sexual immorality, drug use, rebellion, etc. Thus
our exposes, warnings and call for repentance.
Jesus did preach about loving your neighbor and your enemies, forgiving
your brother but He also clearly taught on judging - please re-read my article
entitled Hey Goodfight,
who are you to judge.
I can’t understand how you can dismiss Jesus’ clear teachings on the subject of judging.
You admit that He never says "do NOT judge" then you go
on to claim that he "made it PERFECTLY clear" that humans are NOT to
judge! The truth is Jesse, Jesus clearly stated:
Do not judge according to appearance, but judge with righteous
judgment John 7:24
How clear does it have to be for you Jesse? It can’t be anymore clearer.
Jesus Himself tells us how to judge. As for your unbiblically supported
claim that humans are NOT to judge - I CHALLENGE YOU to produce scripture that
supports your claim and KNOW THIS, if you attempt to twist a scripture to mean
that we can’t judge - then YOU'LL HAVE TO DEAL WITH THE CONTRADICTION YOU'LL BE
CREATING WITH JESUS' VERY OWN COMMAND IN John 7:24.
Jesus further tells us how to go about judging (righteously) in Matthew
7...
Matthew 7:5
...first take the log out of your own eye, and then you will
see clearly to take the speck out of your brother's eye.
One more example of Jesus judging and teaching how we as believers should
judge is found I little later in Matthew 7...
Matthew 7:15-16
"Beware the false prophets, who come to you in sheep's clothing but
inwardly they are ravenous wolves, you will know them by their fruits..."
Here Jesus Himself is making a judgment of someone then expresses that we
will need to make judgments ourselves.
And there’s 2 Timothy 4, Instead of commenting on it I’ll just
allow you to read it, surely this one will help clarify the issue for you...
2 Tim 4:2-4
preach the word; be ready in season and out of season; reprove,
rebuke, exhort, with great patience and instruction. For the time will
come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but wanting to have their ears
tickled, they will accumulate for themselves teachers in accordance to
their own desires, and will turn away their ears from the truth and will turn
aside to myths.
You may also want to consider Romans 13, which talks about authorities
and leaders being ordained by God to execute wrath on the evil.
Now think about your claim that humans are NOT to judge... Can you see the
the error in your unscripturally supported view?
I’ve shown you scripture after scripture of men
making judgments, which include commands for believers to recognize dangerous
deceptive/sinful men - which of course would require a believer to make a
judgment about a person to determine if they are a false prophet, spreading
false doctrine, or simply unbelievers.
"Last of all, I don't believe that your ministry is bringing anyone,
truly closer to God. All it is doing is alienating those who don't prescribe to
Christianity. Instead of bringing those people closer to a relationship with
God and His Son, you would rather push them away, loudly exclaiming your
self-righteousness. Sure some of these people would rather slander God then
embrace him, but your philosophy is pushing them even further. These people
aren't possessed by the demons of hell, they are rather on the wrong path and
need to be shown the light to the straight and narrow. This is true according
to your beliefs. Is it not?"
Not all are possessed by demons in the biblical sense of demon
possession. We do not claim that all the artists we expose are demon possessed;
for the most part we allow the artist’s own admissions expose their demon
possession. We do point out the fact that many are demonically inspired, led,
and deceived.
As for the fruit of our ministry, there have been many praise reports as
a result of Fight the Good Fight’s Ministry. Our expose video is circulating
internationally and is affecting lives for the kingdom. To list a few ways the
Lord has used our ministry has been to bring many to Christ for salvation,
helped musicians turn from secular music and play only for God and recently
helped a child actress turn down a lead role in a Marilyn Manson video and very
recently prevented the abortion of a child. We give God all the glory for how He has
used this ministry. Your belief that our ministry is not bringing anyone closer
to God is out of complete ignorance, therefore I understand. However, please
know that God has been moving mightily through our ministry.
I know you may have a hard time understanding the divisions that can
be caused by our biblically supported practice of exposing and warning,
however, you need to keep in mind what Jesus Himself said...
Luke 12:51
"Do you suppose that I came to grant peace on earth? I
tell you, no, but rather division;
"I would love to hear a retort from you, I even demand that you to
write me back. I want to hear more of your cock-eyed view of Christianity and
the Bible."
I would not be able to stand before God with a clear conscience if I did
not respond to you and your irresponsible and extremely dangerous views that
you promote and boast of at punknews.org. Much like the artists that we
expose in an attempt to warn the masses of dangerous error, I am obligated to
respond and expose your errors to the masses.
As for "cock-eyed view of Christianity", I believe
the many readers of this email/post are intelligent enough to see your views
and accusations for what they really are - erroneous, twisted, unsubstantiated
by scripture, contradictory to scripture, and unfair.
"Life is too short to hate, why not love each other and bring each
other closer to God rather them pushing them away with pointed fingers and
self-righteousness?"
"Hate"?
Do we claim to hate these individuals? No, absolutely not. In fact,
we pray for these individuals - that they realize their deception or turn from
deceiving others. We don’t hate them. Are you just assuming that we hate them
because we expose their fruitless deeds of darkness?
As Christians we are called to hate sin - and we do hate their sin and
it’s results of their deceptive messages, agendas, etc., thus we expose them...
Ephesians 5:11
Have nothing to do with the fruitless deeds of darkness but rather EXPOSE THEM
So your implication that we hate these people is simply just another
false allegation/misunderstanding on your part. You’re obviously confusing our
exposing of these artists with hate for them.
"P.S. I am one of those you would label evil. I play that nasty rock
and roll music, and even embrace it as a means to love someone else. And if
you'll notice I was true to my word and did not slander or degrade you in any
manner. I only insulted your philosophy and in turn did not cast a judgment
upon you. You should be loved just like anyone else."
And lastly, you put words in our mouths concerning whether or not you’re
evil... If you are embracing (JESSE, REMEMBER DEMUS NOW) rock and roll
music because you love it, agree with it, accept it in spite of what God calls
you to do (2 Corinthians 6) then you are definitely involved in the
fruitless deeds of darkness and you need to heed God’s word and be separate
from the world, otherwise you’re treading on thin ice and can be in danger of
making yourself an enemy of God not truly having the Father.
James 4:4
You adulteresses, do you not know that friendship with the world is
hostility toward God? Therefore WHOEVER wishes to be a friend of the world
MAKES HIMSELF AN ENEMY OF GOD.
1 John 2:15
Do not love the world nor the things in the world. If ANYONE LOVES THE
WORLD, THE LOVE OF THE FATHER IS NOT IN HIM.
JESSE, YOU ARE FACED WITH MAKING SOME SERIOUS DECISIONS.
I can only pray that you recognize the fire you’re playing with. I pray that
pride will not keep you from rejecting the world and the things of it. Again,
should you choose to respond to the issues, please, as a professing Christian,
support your claims, accusations with scripture - anything less is vanity.
Steve Aguilar
(Titus 1:9) comments@goodfight.org
Consistently you point out that music itself is the devils work, but yet at
ancient feasts in Israel (which in the Bible is said Jesus attended) had
music playing. If you believe that music in its entirity is the devils work
than Jesus had sinful ears himself. If you look deep enough into anything
you will find what you want.
E-mail from Lawson gs118@worldnet.att.net
FTGF RESPONSE:
Lawson, concerning your accusation in which you state,
"you point out that music itself is the devils work" - this claim is in complete error. Unfortunately, you
either did not read my article "How Can
Music Be Demonically Inspired" or you simply failed to read it
carefully. Therefore the following is an excerpt from the article that
directly addresses your false accusation, thus your erroneous conclusion...
"I must begin by pointing out that
We at Fight the Good Fight Ministries DO NOT CLAIM THAT
ALL SECULAR MUSIC IS OF SATAN OR IN OTHER WORDS DEMONICALLY INSPIRED.
What we are saying is that music CAN be demonically
inspired - in fact we go on further to point out those artists that are
clearly inspired demonically. However, we ask that you not just take our
word for it, rather the “artists” own words,
as in most cases they themselves admit to supernatural influences and then,
of course, you have those that out right admit to satanic
influence."
Lawson, please take the time to review our site carefully in order
to avoid any further incorrect accusations against us. However, I truly thank you for
taking the time to email us, as I hope the response has clarified this issue for you.
Steve Aguilar
(Titus 1:9) comments@goodfight.org
First of all, your 'Exposes' section is incomplete, based on lies and totally useless.
A question is why do you list Creed on your exposes page, considering that they
are all devout Christians. Also, I'm sure that if there is a god, he is sending you
to hell for judging others like you have. Take a good look at yourself before you judge
others.
Ihsahn
USA - Wednesday, August 29, 2001 at 17:06:39 (EDT)
FTGF RESPONSE:
Thank you for signing our guestbook. We ask that you
please be patient with us, as our expose page is
continuously being updated - we apologize for the inconvenience. Articles are
being prepared for the “artists” and groups which are currently not active links, however,
you can view information on them simply by
CLICKING HERE to view the entire 4 hour video.
Why Creed? We hear this question quite often, in fact I will be posting an article,
by Pastor Joe Schimmel, on Creed this week. It will answer your question as well as your
claim, "they are all devout Christians", in great
detail. Be sure to share the article with everyone you know that agrees with your
views.
As for the judging issue, please read my article entitled,
“Hey Goodfight, who are you to judge?”.
Steve Aguilar
(Romans 10:9-10) comments@goodfight.org
i've been waiting to see more responses to the opposing comments. was that just once in a lifetime thing?
a fan of this site
USA - Wednesday, August 22, 2001 at 00:44:48 (EDT)
FTGF RESPONSE:
No, it wasn't a once in a lifetime thing - I'm posting responses
as quickly as my schedule permits. Now that I think about it - I can understand
how it sort of seemed that way - sorry.
I'm continuing to respond to posts consisting of issues that have not already been
addressed. I hope the responses have helped clarify our positions on the various
issues.
Thanks for the encouragement, by reading the responses, and thanks in
advance for your patience.
Steve Aguilar
(Titus 1:9) comments@goodfight.org
Hello! I really like your site and found it very informative. I was most impressed
that the exposes are quite documented. I am waiting quite impatiently for the new ones
to be posted. I especially can't wait for the Alice Cooper one! Keep up the good work!!
In His Service, tim
Tim Turner <all4christ99@yahoo.com>
Lansford, PA USA - Tuesday, August 21, 2001 at 15:29:56 (EDT)
FTGF RESPONSE:
Tim,
We apologize for the delay in posting our exposés. We do however, have
material on every name posted on our exposé page,
in fact, there are many more names we have yet to add to the list as well - we are just
simply behind schedule. As you may have noticed, because of the delay, I'm posting short
video clips of "artists" for now. We thank you for your post and are encouraged to get back
on schedule. Tim, Press on in Jesus!
Steve Aguilar
(2 Timothy 4:22) comments@goodfight.org
what is this? i don't understand why some people feel like they have to destroy people to try to tell them something. maybe if this site wasn't so controversial, more people would listen. but telling people that they're going to hell doesn't make them want to join christianity and accept Jesus, it makes them want to distance themselves and try to fight it. i speak from personal experience. i realise you are doing this in love, but i can tell you now and in the last 2000 years of christianity, this form of love turns more into hate. don't get me wrong, i do agree somewhat with your ministry. but this is not the way to get through to people. preach love, not hellfire.
peace in Christ to you and yours
kylee
USA - Tuesday, August 21, 2001 at 00:57:40 (EDT)
FTGF RESPONSE:
Kylee,
Thank you for posting your comments, however, your points have already been addressed,
therefore, please refer to my responses below, specifically the one to "Guy".
I must, however, add to what you'll read below. You are obviously uncomfortable
with one preaching the gospel laced with the warnings of hell. However, have you
ever stopped to think about how the gospel is preached throughout the bible?
Let's see how the Christian's ultimate example, Jesus, shared the gospel. (note: Jesus spoke more about hell than He did about heaven)...
Luke 13:3
Unless you repent you will all likewise perish
Matt 23:33
Serpents, brood of vipers! How can you escape the condemnation of hell?
Luke 12:5
But I will show you whom you should fear: Fear Him who, after He has killed, has power
to cast into hell; yes, I say to you, fear Him!
Matthew 8:11-12
And I say to you that many will come from east and west, and sit down with Abraham,
Isaac, and Jacob in the kingdom of heaven. But the sons of the kingdom will be cast
out into outer darkness. There will be weeping and gnashing of teeth."
John 15:6
"If anyone does not abide in Me, he is thrown away as a branch and dries up;
and they gather them, and cast them into the fire and they are burned.
Why did Jesus preach and teach this way? Because He loves us and does not want any of
us to suffer the consequences of eternal damnation. Likewise, our motivation is
love - we want to warn everyone, both the believer and non-believer.
If I was aware of a plane that had an electrical problem that would cause it to explode
once airborne, you can be sure I would do whatever it takes to keep that plane from departing.
Now think about it - how much sense would it make for me to inform everyone that the
plane should not depart, without telling anyone why? They would think I'm crazy.
But if I warn them of the problem and the consequences they will suffer, should they
continue with their plans to depart, perhaps it will get their attention and
help them to realize the danger they're facing. So perhaps now you can see why
Jesus preached the gospel, always including the consequences of eternal damnation?
Sadly, it's understandable and expected that many will choose to reject the gospel when it
includes the warning of eternal damnation, for example…
Acts 24:24-25
But some days later Felix arrived with Drusilla, his wife who was a Jewess, and sent for
Paul and heard him {speak} about faith in Christ Jesus. But as he was discussing
righteousness, self-control and the judgment to come, Felix became frightened and
said, "Go away for the present, and when I find time I will summon you."
You see Felix was an adulterer - he was a non-believer - and the last thing he wanted to
hear was about righteous living, self-control and the "judgment to come". Paul was not
being unloving, hateful nor having a "holier than thou" attitude - he was simply sharing
the gospel as Jesus did by NOT leaving out the consequences of
eternal damnation (Acts 20:27).
Now all this being said, just because you or someone else decide to label the example
Jesus (John 3:18),
John the Baptist (John 3:36),
Peter (2 Peter 2:1-10),
Paul (Romans 2:5-9), etc., clearly made for us,
as unloving or hateful, doesn't mean Christians should no longer follow the example
that has been set forth in scripture. I'm sure you would agree that these men,
which includes the Lord Jesus, were not being unloving or hateful, but rather out of a
genuine love and concern, just simply sharing the gospel.
Lastly, please listen to the following clip, as it addresses your comments quite directly…
How To Effectively Share The Gospel"
Steve Aguilar
(John 3:36) comments@goodfight.org
I'm a musician and I find it very appalling that people like you still blame music for all of the evil in the world, you must Live and Let live and not be societies police force, only in America it seems we have these problems, other countries laugh at us because of people like you. I have played in many different bands and never have I once, participated in any kind of satanic ritual or baby sacrifice. This is absurd. God gave us the ability to create music because music is the common language that UNITES PEOPLE and are we not all EQUAL in HIS EYES?
Personally Im more worried about the pedophiles in the church....go after them
David
East Coast, USA - Friday, August 17, 2001 at 01:29:32 (EDT)
FTGF RESPONSE:
We at Fight the Good Fight Ministries do not, "blame music for all the evil in the world". We have never made such a claim. The source of "blame" for all evil in the world is sin, which entered the human race at the fall of Adam (Genesis 3, Romans 5:12). Our position on music, that does not glorify God, by way of contradicting His will for our lives, is that at the very least it normalizes attitudes towards godliness and can promote sinful behavior, yes even conduct in people click for an example.
We do not consider ourselves as "society's police", just simply Christians and as Christians we are called to defend the faith, preach the gospel, correct error, expose ungodliness, warn against spiritually dangerous individuals (by name if necessary), etc.
Don't take my word for it - read the scriptural support yourself…
Jude 3-4
Beloved, while I was very diligent to write to you concerning our common salvation, I found it necessary to write to you exhorting you to contend earnestly for the faith which was once for all delivered to the saints.
For certain men have crept in unnoticed, who long ago were marked out for this condemnation, ungodly men, who turn the grace of our God into lewdness and deny the only Lord God and our Lord Jesus Christ.
2 Timothy 4:2
Preach the word! Be ready in season and out of season. Convince, rebuke, exhort, with all longsuffering and teaching.
Ephesians 5:11
And have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness, but rather expose them.
1 Timothy 1:20
Among these are Hymenaeus and Alexander, whom I have handed over to Satan, so that they will be taught not to blaspheme
Matthew 4:17
From that time Jesus began to preach and say, "Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand."
Matthew 11:20
Then He [Jesus] began to rebuke the cities in which most of His mighty works had been done, because they did not repent
I could go on. For further scriptural support read the entire book of Acts.
If other countries "laugh" because we as Christians hold to word of God, thus have a genuine concern for all human beings to be saved from the damnation to come for all who reject Jesus as Lord and Savior - so be it. We at Fight the Good Fight Ministries will not be discouraged by mockers (2 Peter 3:3-18). We will continue to preach salvation (John 3:3, John 14:6, Romans 10:9-10), and sound the alarm concerning evil deceptions.
You state, "never have I once, participated in any kind of satanic ritual or baby sacrifice" as a result of playing in "many different bands" - I say, "praise the Lord". However, surely you don't believe for a minute that what hasn't yet influenced you, can't influence someone else! Surely you're not implying that you are the ultimate test as to whether or not one can be influenced by music!?! Whatever the case may be with your logic on this point, let's see what some of the "artists" we expose have to say on the subject…
Jimi Hendrix:[windows media player]
"I can explain everything better through music. YOU HYPNOTIZE PEOPLE... And when you get people at [their] weakest point you can preach into the subconscious what we want to say. That's why the name "electric church' flashes in and out."
Led Zeppelin (From the song Houses of the Holy):
"Let the music be your master, won't you heed the masters call? Oh Satan"
Flea (from the Red Hot Chili Peppers)[real player]
"Music is really great, it can, it can, it can move, you know a large group of people, it can inspire and move a large group of people then revolution can happen"
Insane Clown Posse[windows media player]
"I'm influencing your children"
David, please stop and re-think about this. You claim music does not have an influence on people, yet these "artists" whom you are indirectly defending with your argument, claim that it does!
Keep in mind, one may not be influenced to the point of a "Satanic ritual" or some sort of "baby sacrifice", however, these practices are rebellion towards God which are no different than murder, pre-marital sex, adultery, profanity, greed, murder, suicide, lust, etc. -all of which the "artists" we expose condone and promote. So if you're of the opinion that the music/"artists" (videos, lyrics, lifestyles, etc.) are not harmful - then you are deceived - and please know I say that in love and in hope that you will re-evaluate your thinking.
You asked, "Are we not all equal in His eyes", we are equal in the sense that God has made salvation available for all men (John 3:16, John 12:32,1 Timothy 2:4-5, John 12:32,2 Peter 3:8-9).
However, keep in mind what the scripture warn…
John 3:36
Whoever believes in the Son has eternal life, but whoever rejects the Son will not see life, for God's wrath remains on him."
John 3:3
Jesus answered and said to him, "Most assuredly, I say to you, unless one is born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God."
1 Cor 6:9-10
Do you not know that the wicked will not inherit the kingdom of God? Do not be deceived: Neither the sexually immoral nor idolaters nor adulterers nor male prostitutes nor homosexual offenders nor thieves nor the greedy nor drunkards nor slanderers nor swindlers will inherit the kingdom of God.
As for true unity for mankind, Jesus prayed it best in John chapter 17. True unity for mankind is found in God's word…
John 17:17-23
Sanctify them by the truth; your word is truth. As you sent me into the world,
I have sent them into the world. For them I sanctify myself, that they too may be truly
sanctified. "My prayer is not for them alone. I pray also for those who will believe in me
through their message, that all of them may be one, Father, just as you are in me and I am in
you. May they also be in us so that the world may believe that you have sent me.
I have given them the glory that you gave me, that they may be one as we are one:I in them
and you in me. May they be brought to complete unity to let the world know that you sent me
and have loved them even as you have loved me.
David, your comments were greatly appreciated.
Steve Aguilar
(1 Timothy 1:3-4) comments@goodfight.org
i must say that this site is truly pathetic; yet that is exactly what i would expect
from christian fanatics. a web site with page after page of passing judgements on
others...does the word hypocrites mean anything to you? or a quote from that famous
literary character jesus, "judge not, or lest ye shall be judged." no wonder that
religious faith relies on two things: hope and ignorance. i do own a bible...i take
it camping with me in case i [inappropriate comment removed].
Jay
CA USA - Wednesday, August 15, 2001 at 12:48:31 (EDT)
FTGF RESPONSE:
The following response is taken from my article
"Hey Goodfight, who are you to judge?"...
Now let’s address Matthew 7:1, the scripture that records Jesus
specifically saying “Do not judge”.
Matthew 7:1 is probably the one scripture that is most often misquoted, truncated
and taken out of context in an attempt to tell Christians to stop "judging".
To grasp the true context, let’s take a closer look at Matthew 7:1-5…
Matthew 7:1-5
1 "Do not judge so that you will not be judged.
2 For in the way you judge, you will be judged; and by your standard of
measure, it will be measured to you.
3 Why do you look at the speck that is in your brother's eye, but do not notice the log
that is in your own eye?
4 Or how can you say to your brother, 'Let me take the speck out of your eye,' and behold,
the log is in your own eye?
5 You hypocrite, first take the log out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly
to take the speck out of your brother's eye."
If you have never read past verse 1, then perhaps you are seeing the true meaning of this
verse for the first time. Notice that Jesus did NOTever say, don't judge - period.
He exhorts us to judge with righteous judgment in John 7:24 and here in
Matthew 7:1-5 He says first be sure you're right with God before pointing out someone
else's sin, thus granting the right to judge.
The correct understanding of Matthew 7:1 is that simple! Verse 5 clarifies and exposes
the skeptic’s erroneous understanding of “Do not judge”, by giving the green
light, if you will, to judge so as long as it is not done in a hypocritical
manner.
Steve Aguilar
(Jude 3) comments@goodfight.org
i am pleased to see that you are no longer censoring your guestbook entries. that was basically the only problem i had with your site as i think that people should see both sides of an arguement or opinion, not just one.
jodi
USA - Wednesday, August 15, 2001 at 01:12:07 (EDT)
FTGF RESPONSE:
We have received many comments concerning guest book posts,
which are not being posted. Unfortunately we are unable to allow automatic posts
to our guestbook, as we cannot allow such things as profanity, unsupported false accusations,
biblically incorrect interpretations, etc. be posted without being addressed with a response
and/or correction - not to mention clean up the language that is used.
Our policy is, and always has been, to collect every guest book post we receive and address
those that oppose us via Email, however I was only able to respond to those that provided
a legitimate email address. Now, as time permits, I will address guestbook posts by posting
a response so all can see.
Please understand that we at goodfight.org take seriously our accountability before God as to what we post, because as you can imagine, without addressing the false accusations, twisted scripture, etc., the result can be the cause of someone becoming misinformed, deceived, and ultimately keep them or direct them to the broad road to destruction - hell (Matthew 7:13-14).
Posting arguments against our own ministry, which consist of twisted scriptures, lies, profanity
etc, without addressing the inaccuracies of them makes about as much sense as a church placing
anti-Christian messages it's very own church building sign that they not only own, but which
is located on their own property.
We post praise reports to show how the Lord has used Fight the Good Fight Ministries in people's lives.
However, we strongly encourage visitors to examine the evidence we offer so in the event
you should find something you disagree with, you can email us at
comments@goodfight.org.
We truly want to hear any and all your disagreements so we can maturely discuss and examine
any particular issue you may have. In fact, Should you have a disagreement or believe
that we are in error in any of the issues posted on our site, we welcome you to provide
us with the documentation/evidence that you believe supports your claims. Be assured, if
ever error was found on our site or perhaps an artist recants his/her postion towards God,
we will immediately make any necessary corrections, as we make it our responsibility to thoroughly research all expose material we post - we would
not want to unfairly portray someone, as they are not. It was Jesus who said..
John 7:24
"Do not judge according to appearance, BUT JUDGE WITH RIGHTEOUS JUDGMENT."
We are a responsible ministry recognizing our accountability before God, as well as
knowing we are standing on biblical ground concerning the operation of our ministry of
warning, exposing, sharing the gospel, etc.(Matthew 7:5, 15-16, John 7:24, Romans 16:17-18, 1 Corinthians 5:1-6, 2 Corinthians 6:11-16, Ephesians 5:11, 1 Timothy 1:3, 19-20, 2 Timothy 3:1-9, 4:2-4).
Thank you again for visiting our site.
Steve Aguilar
(Ephesians 5:11) comments@goodfight.org
If this was such a "good fight", then why are you selling the "good word" for $29.95? Isn't money the root of all evil? If you were so concerned about this "fight", then you'd disseminate the information for FREE, or at least for the cost of the video tape (like 5 bucks, maybe). Your exposes make me laugh, you guys have your [inappropriate comment removed] its hilarious. Can you explain to me why Christian groups and musician use "tri-tones" in their writing? Tri-tones are "the devil's work" and supposed summon Satan himself. That's a bit ironic, huh? All the "satanic" verses you quote in your exposes isn't satan worshipping, its called MARKETING. Like exactly what you are trying to do with your $30 video. Quit trying to bilk god-loving people out of their money your witch hunts. If you care SO much, do it for free...that's the way Jesus would do it. Satan would try to sell it for for $29.95 plus $6.95 s/h. Hey, wait a second....
Raybus <fsfsf@hklj.com>
USA - Monday, August 13, 2001 at 10:59:07 (EDT)
FTGF RESPONSE:
The correct reading of the verse you misquoted is:
1 Timothy 6:10
"for the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil,
for which some have strayed from the faith in their greediness,
and pierced themselves through with many sorrows"
The context of this verse speaks of those that desire to be rich,
thus forsake pursuing godliness.
Your second error is your attempt to apply this verse to Fight the Good Fight Ministries.
The donation of $29.95 is to hopefully help offset the $100,000 that was invested, by church members,
into this project. Our heart's desires are for many to see these "artists" for what they
really are as well as the real agendas they promote. Simply read a few exposes and you
can see that we emphasize godliness by exposing the various ungodly lyrics, religious practices, lifestyles, etc.
of these "artists".
Once again you error in accusing us of not offering the information for "FREE", as you'll
find a link on our home page making available the entire 2 tape video set (4 hours)for
online viewing - free of charge.
Steve Aguilar
(2 Timothy 4:2) comments@goodfight.org
It's amazing to me that people like the creators and followers of this site have enough nerve to tell me how to live my life, when they base their entire life on the "teachings" of a BOOK.
Or maybe I'm just being manipulated by Satan. I'm open to suggestion. E-mail me if you think you can change my mind.
Bo <davidjones102010@hotmail.com>
Monkey City, Mo USA - Friday, August 10, 2001 at 17:21:59 (EDT)
FTGF RESPONSE:
Bo (davidjones),
I just discussed this subject last night with someone.
The person in question continued to attempt to bounce
around with questions as to why so many
interpretations in the Christian community existed, etc etc - all
in an attempt to prove that God doesn't exist and that the bible is "just a book. The first
thing I attempt to discuss with such people, as yourself, is the
validity of the bible. Because if the bible is not the word
of God and is not inerrant then the bible cannot be relied on as spiritual truth.
My personal challenge to you, is to provide
me with any errors you might believe exist in the bible
(contradictions, lies, etc). You see the bible proves itself
as the word of God based on it's accuracy in areas such as archeaology, manuscriptural authenticity, prophetic fulfillment, etc.
This "book", actually consists of 66 books written by different
authors spanning over a period of 1400 years, from 3 different
continents, men ranging from shepherds and
fishermen to kings, yet NOT one contradiction exists. Try
getting a few different guys from the same
neighborhood and ask them to write some truth about
spiritual things and you'll end up with an incredible
amount of contradictions, errors etc. yet look what the Lord did
supernaturally with the writers of the bible! Think
about it - over 700 years before Jesus was born, His birth was prophesied, and about 1000 years before Jesus was
crucified it - it too was prophesied - in great detail - and
this was way before death by crucifixion was
practiced, also see...
Daniel's 70th Week
You don't believe in the bible?
Bottom line, Bo (davidjones), the burden of proving the
bible to be false is yours and again I challenge you, in
love, to provide me with some solid evidence to
support your position on the bible.
I look forward to discussing this topic with you further.
Steve Aguilar
(Titus 1:9) comments@goodfight.org
Okay, I feel like I need to say something... I have not watched the videos but I have looked through the website and I read all the positive comments in the Guest Book. There is something that is bothering me... Where's the love? Music is powerful. It was meant to be, God created it. And it can be used positively or negatively. And while there are those artists out there that outwardly use their talents to promote something that would be considered ungodly there are still others in the industry that are doing it because they simply want to use their gifts. It seems to me that you are lumping everyone in the same catagory and that is judgment. That is not love. That is not the grace of God. I believe in speaking up against something that is incorrect (for example, the lyrics of a song, or the actions of a performer). But I believe it is wrong to attack the individuals. And you can sit there and tell me that I am being ignorant to the tactics of Satan but I do not see anyone reaching out and building relationships with anyone in the music industry. I didn't notice any focus on loving them on this site. All I see is a website/ministry that is pointing fingers. I think it is great that you want to stop the darkness from taking over the light but the True Light will shine more powerfully where there is True Love. And I am talking about a love for the 'lost', a love that looks beyond what they are saying and sees the God given talents and destiny in Him that is not being fulfilled. Let me say here that I am not advocating listening to secular music. Like I stated earlier, music is powerful. You need to walk wisely and with discernment regarding anything you hear. The Lord has burdened my heart for an industry that the church has continually scolded and attacked. We would rather sit on the high mountain and shout down to them and say they are wrong. We'd rather build a business/ministry and a name for ourselves. We'd prefer to look holy and righteous and expect them to change and climb up the mountain than to get ourselves a little dirty and go love them where they are, showing them there is a better path to take; a path that they can still use their talent on but it can be used to the fullness by worshiping the Gift Giver with it. Hope I don't sound too harsh. Sorry, if I do. I am just passionate about the arts. And the 'church' has continually shut it's doors to them (the arts) which grieves my heart. Perhaps if there was a place for these artist to use their talents (beyond the 'christian music industry' thing) to worship God and bring Him glory then they wouldn't be so easily persuaded to use them other ways. Maybe if they had a place to create new sounds they wouldn't be lured to a place that lets them use their talent freely. And perhaps if more believers out there were extending a loving hand, full of life, hope, truth and grace... than things would change. But right now I am sure they only see condemnation and limitations when they should see compassion and liberty. Thanks for letting me share my heart. Hope it sheds some light and gives a new perspective to the work you are doing. PEACE!
Guy
USA - Friday, August 10, 2001 at 12:54:54 (EDT)
FTGF RESPONSE:
Guy,
You mentioned, you have not yet watched our video expose - click here to watch it in it's entirety. I'm confident that that after viewing it your opinion as to "where's the love" will change.
Please know this, we at Fight the Good Fight Ministries diligently intercede for the many "artists" we expose. We pray constantly that they would take heed the warnings and turn from their lives of sin and rebellion towards God (see video clip), thus putting a stop to the ungodly influences they are having on the masses.
At the same time also know that we, as Christians, are called to expose these unrepentant individuals…
Ephesians 5:11
And have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness, but rather expose them.
Our website primarily deals with exposing "artists" that for the most part have voiced their rejection of God, Jesus, Godly principles, the bible, etc. Usually if they do not embrace true Christianity they usually hold to things such as Satanism, New Age thought, ideas and teachings contrary to scripture. The bible says…
Psalm 119:155
The wicked are far from salvation, for they do not bother with your principles.
In other words those that reject God can end up with hardened hearts, thus they find it harder to turn to the Lord, therefore the need to warn people, Christian or not, is necessary and of course biblical (2 Timothy 4:2, Romans 16:17-18, Titus 1:9, Jude 3-4, Ezekiel 33:6).
I know our website, which consists of exposes and warnings, is hard for many people to swallow, however, so were Jesus' warnings…
Matthew 4:17
"…Jesus began to preach and say, "Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand"
John 13:3
"I tell you but unless you repent you will all likewise perish"
In fact read John chapter 8 and read of how Jesus dealt with the Pharisees that were rejecting Him. Look forward to hearing from you again.
Steve Aguilar
(Titus 1:9) comments@goodfight.org
Wow it's amazing what you can do to lyrics with a few ... here and there. Here's how Satanically influenced your site is:
"Dr. Jason D. Kovar... clearly and without a doubt reveals... Satanism and... has... an influence on today's motion pictures, as well as those of yesterday." Wow right 'in your own words' (just like all the songs) we see that he has influence on many things. Seems like he is satanically influenced himself. You talk to defend yourself from people saying that you shouldn't judge by showing them that their quotes from the Bible are taken out of context being that the rest of the quote is not there. Maybe you should examine your website and show the entire quotes and not just your edited excerpts.
Joe Heidenreich a1290@hotmail.com
Fort Wayne, IN USA - Thursday, May 10, 2001 at 16:40:12 (EDT)
FTGF RESPONSE:
Joe,
Thank you for posting your comments on our website.
I understand your point, however, I believe you missed the entire point of the article concerning "judging". Did you really miss the point of the article? Perhaps if you re-read the article you will realize that you did exactly what the article reveals of the many skeptics that write us. You see, what you did by truncating and isolating specific quotes resulted in totally changed the context of the text.
The only thing you demonstrated was exactly how NOT to quote! Because your attempt at quoting the text changed the context - the result is false, unfair and illegal. What you must know is that the quotes that we present on our web site do NOT change the context of the artist's beliefs, lifestyle agenda or whatever the case may be with the specific artist. In addition to this, our video "They sold their souls for rock and roll" contains the entire interviews, writings, etc. that totally confirm the context - Click Here to view for yourself.
Perhaps in the future you will examine all the evidence before making rash judgments. Your attempt to turn the tables doesn't quite cut it. Remember if you change the context with an isolated quote - you've erred. On the other hand if an isolated quote is used without changing the context in which it was made - there is no error.
You imply that we take quotes out of context by saying that we should re-examine our "edited excerpts", well as I mentioned before, all the evidence and documented resources are referenced in our video. We clearly show many of the artists themselves admitting to supernatural influences to outright satanic influences. We provide clear evidence for all quotes we post on our website as well as those in the video. You freely imply that we are in error concerning the context of our quotes, yet you provided no evidence.
Allow me to encourage and even challenge you to provide us with evidence to support your claims - which by the way were not specific whatsoever. Please be sure to be specific with your accusations. In fact, if you could provide irrefutable evidence contrary to anything we've posted at www.goodfight.org, we would humbly stand corrected and immediately post a correction, as we take seriously our accountability before God in all matters of our ministry.
Thank you again for posting your thoughts. I look forward to your response and documentation to support your claims.
Below is an email I recently sent to someone regarding the issue of what we allow to be posted in our guest book, perhaps this will clarify things for you on that issue.
Steve Aguilar
(Titus 1:9) comments@goodfight.org
EMAIL ATTACHMENT...
Thank you for visiting www.goodfight.org.
The many artists that we list on our expose page are just a fraction of the many artists exposed in great detail in our video expose. We admittedly have fallen behind in transferring the exposes to a written format, so we apologize for not having all the info for you.
Though some of the names listed may seem far reaching and pointless, however, the truth is we are extremely careful with who we expose, when it comes to triple checking the artist's beliefs, experiences, agendas, etc. (see www.goodfight.org/judging.html).
I must again emphasize the evidence that leaves no doubt about these artists is provided in extreme detail in our video, we will soon, gradually, have all this same information posted on our site.
As for the guest book entries, we again are extremely careful with what we post as many post and emails contain totally false evidence in defense of some artists, not to mention extreme use of profanity. We have chosen not to post such negative/false posts unless we refute them with a detailed article, as we don't want people to be further deceived.
I will perhaps eventually, perhaps, post the most common complaints/arguments along with an article revealing the error. For now what I do is personally contact every person that leaves their email address along with their negative post - and attempt to further clarify our position(s) on whatever issue is in question. I do find myself responding to quite a bit of posts and emails, however, we find this beneficial to the skeptic as it provides them with a detailed understanding of our position on whatever issues they address. This is also beneficial to anyone that is susceptible to further deception, in the event that a totally false allegation, or argument is posted without being addressed. We take seriously our accountability before God in regards to the information we provide at our site.
This being said, we have nothing to hide. It's no secret we have an unpopular message, however, the artists we expose make no secret of their influences, their agendas, etc.
Should you have any questions or specific concerns of a specific artist, please email us at
webmaster@goodfight.org
or
comments@goodfight.org
We enjoy receiving comments, both negative and positive.
In His service,
Steve Aguilar
(Ephesians 5:11)
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