My Way News - Some Web sites unblocked for Olympics, but not all
AP reports: "Olympic organizers unblocked some Internet sites at the main press center and media venues Friday while others remained off limits for journalists covering the Beijing games."
Friday, August 01, 2008
Off The Field - smh.com.au
The Sydney Morning Herald is reporting on censorship in China and I'm noting this even though Chinese attitudes towards Christianity have become much more relaxed of late, they still censor other religions and spiritual movements. Mindful of Pastor Martin Niemöller's warning, we stand with them. According to the report:
The Sydney Morning Herald is reporting on censorship in China and I'm noting this even though Chinese attitudes towards Christianity have become much more relaxed of late, they still censor other religions and spiritual movements. Mindful of Pastor Martin Niemöller's warning, we stand with them. According to the report:
The Great Firewall of China - or the Golden Shield Project, to give it its official name - is intended to prevent, deter and detect anyone who reads, downloads or publishing reports deemed to challenge the government's hold on power.I find it particularly shameful that American companies are doing this.
In addition to the hardware and software - some of it supplied by US companies like Cisco - China also employs tens of thousands of human censors to trawl through popular forums and blogs, spotting and then erasing references to banned or sensitive topics.
Olympic organisers agree to China blocking 'sensitive' internet sites - Times Online
The Times Online reports: "Kevan Gosper, the head of the International Olympic Committee (IOC) press commission, confirmed that some of its officials had agreed to Chinese demands that some sensitive sites be blocked on the ground that they were not related to the Olympics."
Comment: It is again demonstrated how easy it is for a government to control internet access. We can only assume that in the future such government control over the internet will only increase, and the capability for such control will always exist, even in countries which prize free speech. There are ways around such control, of course, but the original dream of the internet as a global information commons has been dashed.
The Times Online reports: "Kevan Gosper, the head of the International Olympic Committee (IOC) press commission, confirmed that some of its officials had agreed to Chinese demands that some sensitive sites be blocked on the ground that they were not related to the Olympics."
Comment: It is again demonstrated how easy it is for a government to control internet access. We can only assume that in the future such government control over the internet will only increase, and the capability for such control will always exist, even in countries which prize free speech. There are ways around such control, of course, but the original dream of the internet as a global information commons has been dashed.
Friday, July 25, 2008
My Way News - Pope Benedict urges help for Iraqi Christians
AP reports: "Pope Benedict XVI urged the world to help Iraqis who have fled their country and called for better protection for Christians inside Iraq during talks Friday with Iraq's prime minister, the Vatican said."
AP reports: "Pope Benedict XVI urged the world to help Iraqis who have fled their country and called for better protection for Christians inside Iraq during talks Friday with Iraq's prime minister, the Vatican said."
My Way News - China paper censored for Tiananmen photo
AP reports: "Within hours of Thursday's publication, the photos and article were removed from the newspaper's Web site. Authorities also ordered issues of Thursday's newspaper recalled from newsstands, Hong Kong's Ming Pao newspaper reported Friday."
AP reports: "Within hours of Thursday's publication, the photos and article were removed from the newspaper's Web site. Authorities also ordered issues of Thursday's newspaper recalled from newsstands, Hong Kong's Ming Pao newspaper reported Friday."
Wednesday, July 16, 2008
Ahead of Olympics, Congressman Pushes 'Global Online Freedom Act' - Wired.com
Threat Level reports: "Republican congressman Chris Smith of New Jersey used a meeting with international human rights group Reporters Without Borders last week to lobby for passage of a bill aimed at curtailing U.S. tech companies' participation in foreign countries' internet censorship schemes. Smith is hoping that the bill reaches the floor of the house and passes before the Olympics begin in August."
Comment: I've always felt it was indefensible for American companies birthed in freedom and liberty to sell technology to be used for oppression.
Threat Level reports: "Republican congressman Chris Smith of New Jersey used a meeting with international human rights group Reporters Without Borders last week to lobby for passage of a bill aimed at curtailing U.S. tech companies' participation in foreign countries' internet censorship schemes. Smith is hoping that the bill reaches the floor of the house and passes before the Olympics begin in August."
Comment: I've always felt it was indefensible for American companies birthed in freedom and liberty to sell technology to be used for oppression.
Thursday, July 10, 2008
My Way News - FCC chief says Comcast violated Internet rules
AP reports: "The head of the Federal Communications Commission said Thursday he will recommend that the nation's largest cable company be punished for violating agency principles that guarantee customers open access to the Internet. [...] Comcast has 'arbitrarily' blocked Internet access, regardless of the level of traffic, and failed to disclose to consumers that it was doing so."
AP reports: "The head of the Federal Communications Commission said Thursday he will recommend that the nation's largest cable company be punished for violating agency principles that guarantee customers open access to the Internet. [...] Comcast has 'arbitrarily' blocked Internet access, regardless of the level of traffic, and failed to disclose to consumers that it was doing so."
U.N. scheme to make Christians criminals:
WND reports "'The 'defamation of religion' resolutions establish as the primary focus and concern the protection of ideas and religions generally, rather than protecting the rights of individuals to practice their religion, which is the chief purpose of international religious freedom law.' 'Furthermore, 'defamation of religion' replaces the existing objective criterion of limitations on speech where there is an intent to incite hatred or violence against religious believers with a subjective criterion that considers whether the religion or its believers feel offended by the speech,' the group continued."
Comment: Basically this is an approach to prevent missionary activity, to stop people from sharing their religion with the intent of winning converts. It "protects" one religion from another religion, it doesn't protect religious freedom, at least not in the way we understand that in the West.
WND reports "'The 'defamation of religion' resolutions establish as the primary focus and concern the protection of ideas and religions generally, rather than protecting the rights of individuals to practice their religion, which is the chief purpose of international religious freedom law.' 'Furthermore, 'defamation of religion' replaces the existing objective criterion of limitations on speech where there is an intent to incite hatred or violence against religious believers with a subjective criterion that considers whether the religion or its believers feel offended by the speech,' the group continued."
Comment: Basically this is an approach to prevent missionary activity, to stop people from sharing their religion with the intent of winning converts. It "protects" one religion from another religion, it doesn't protect religious freedom, at least not in the way we understand that in the West.
My Way News - Ways consumers can safeguard personal data on Web
AP reports: "Your privacy protections may disappear with a court order or subpoena, but there are steps that privacy activists suggest you take to reduce your exposure."
Comment: This AP report gives four tips on protecting your privacy on-line. I'd like to re-post the whole thing (because it's so short), but that would probably be a violation of copyright, so read it before AP removes it and it becomes a dead link. Their best recommendation: use anonymizing software like Tor to avoid leaving tracks on the net. We gave very little privacy left anymore, we need to jealously guard the little we have left. And, of course, for our brothers and sisters in Christ who are living in repressive countries this issue goes far beyond consumer privacy, it can literally be a matter of life and death.
AP reports: "Your privacy protections may disappear with a court order or subpoena, but there are steps that privacy activists suggest you take to reduce your exposure."
Comment: This AP report gives four tips on protecting your privacy on-line. I'd like to re-post the whole thing (because it's so short), but that would probably be a violation of copyright, so read it before AP removes it and it becomes a dead link. Their best recommendation: use anonymizing software like Tor to avoid leaving tracks on the net. We gave very little privacy left anymore, we need to jealously guard the little we have left. And, of course, for our brothers and sisters in Christ who are living in repressive countries this issue goes far beyond consumer privacy, it can literally be a matter of life and death.
Monday, July 07, 2008
My Way News - Rights like free speech don't always extend online
AP reports: "Meanwhile, in response to complaints it would not specify, Network Solutions LLC decided to suspend a Web hosting account that Dutch filmmaker Geert Wilders was using to promote a movie that criticizes the Quran - before the movie was even posted and without the company finding any actual violation of its rules."
Comment: Think about this for a minute, before "offending" content could even be posted on a website, the provider suspended the account. There were no TOS violations, it was an act of preemptive censorship. I wonder if this would have happened if the religion that might have been offended had been any other religion than that "religion of peace," whose followers take it upon themselves to riot whenever there is a perceived slight.
AP reports: "Meanwhile, in response to complaints it would not specify, Network Solutions LLC decided to suspend a Web hosting account that Dutch filmmaker Geert Wilders was using to promote a movie that criticizes the Quran - before the movie was even posted and without the company finding any actual violation of its rules."
Comment: Think about this for a minute, before "offending" content could even be posted on a website, the provider suspended the account. There were no TOS violations, it was an act of preemptive censorship. I wonder if this would have happened if the religion that might have been offended had been any other religion than that "religion of peace," whose followers take it upon themselves to riot whenever there is a perceived slight.
Saturday, April 12, 2008
Indonesia apologises for YouTube blockade - Yahoo! News
AFP reports: "Indonesia ended its blockade of websites carrying a controversial anti-Islam film and apologised to the public on Friday after a string of angry complaints and accusations of censorship."
AFP reports: "Indonesia ended its blockade of websites carrying a controversial anti-Islam film and apologised to the public on Friday after a string of angry complaints and accusations of censorship."
Friday, March 21, 2008
My Way News - China Orders Video Web Sites to Close
AP reports: "The government announced in December that all video-sharing sites had to be state-owned. [...] Chinese Web surfers have recently been blocked from seeing YouTube after video about the Tibet protests appeared on the popular U.S. site. Foreign Web sites run by news organizations and human rights groups are regularly blocked when they carry sensitive information."
AP reports: "The government announced in December that all video-sharing sites had to be state-owned. [...] Chinese Web surfers have recently been blocked from seeing YouTube after video about the Tibet protests appeared on the popular U.S. site. Foreign Web sites run by news organizations and human rights groups are regularly blocked when they carry sensitive information."
Thursday, March 06, 2008
My Way News - Bush Presses House for Surveillance Bill
AP reports: "President Bush said Monday that telecommunications companies should be thanked, not sued, for helping the government conduct warrantless wiretapping in the U.S. after the Sept. 11 attacks."
AP reports: "President Bush said Monday that telecommunications companies should be thanked, not sued, for helping the government conduct warrantless wiretapping in the U.S. after the Sept. 11 attacks."
Thursday, February 28, 2008
Congress worries that .gov monitoring will spy on Americans | Tech news blog - CNET News.com
CNET News reports: "A new Bush administration plan to capture and analyze traffic on all federal government networks in real time is generating privacy worries from congressional Democrats and Republicans alike."
CNET News reports: "A new Bush administration plan to capture and analyze traffic on all federal government networks in real time is generating privacy worries from congressional Democrats and Republicans alike."
Monday, February 25, 2008
My Way News - Pakistan Causes Worldwide YouTube Outage
AP reports: "On Friday, the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority ordered 70 Internet service providers to block access to YouTube.com, because of anti-Islamic movies on the video-sharing site, which is owned by Google Inc."
Comment: It's scary that a country with a religious and ideological agenda can disrupt global internet service. Think about this: an Islamic country seeking to prevent people from watching anti-Islamic movies on a video-sharing site has the power to prevent you from watching those movies...even if you are not in that country. What's to prevent them from targeting pro-Christian movies?
AP reports: "On Friday, the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority ordered 70 Internet service providers to block access to YouTube.com, because of anti-Islamic movies on the video-sharing site, which is owned by Google Inc."
Comment: It's scary that a country with a religious and ideological agenda can disrupt global internet service. Think about this: an Islamic country seeking to prevent people from watching anti-Islamic movies on a video-sharing site has the power to prevent you from watching those movies...even if you are not in that country. What's to prevent them from targeting pro-Christian movies?
Thursday, February 07, 2008
My Way News - Encrypted Laptop Poses Legal Dilemma
AP reports: "Tien, the attorney with the Electronic Frontier Foundation, said a person's right to keep a password secret is a linchpin of the digital age. Encryption is 'really the only way you can secure information against prying eyes,' he said. 'If it's too easy to compel people to produce their crypto keys, it's not much of a protection.'"
AP reports: "Tien, the attorney with the Electronic Frontier Foundation, said a person's right to keep a password secret is a linchpin of the digital age. Encryption is 'really the only way you can secure information against prying eyes,' he said. 'If it's too easy to compel people to produce their crypto keys, it's not much of a protection.'"
Wednesday, January 30, 2008
My Way News - China Steps Up Internet Video Control
AP reports: "The rules are aimed at expanding a Chinese censorship system that tries to block Internet use to spread dissent while promoting it for business and education. Communist leaders are especially anxious about unflattering video showing up online ahead of the Beijing Olympics in August, a major prestige project."
AP reports: "The rules are aimed at expanding a Chinese censorship system that tries to block Internet use to spread dissent while promoting it for business and education. Communist leaders are especially anxious about unflattering video showing up online ahead of the Beijing Olympics in August, a major prestige project."
Thursday, January 24, 2008
My Way News - Access to YouTube Resumes in Turkey
AP reports: "Access to the popular video-sharing Web site YouTube resumed on Thursday, six days after a court ordered it blocked because of clips allegedly insulting the country's founding father."
AP reports: "Access to the popular video-sharing Web site YouTube resumed on Thursday, six days after a court ordered it blocked because of clips allegedly insulting the country's founding father."
Monday, January 21, 2008
My Way News - Turkey Bans YouTube for Second Time
AP reports: "A Turkish court has again blocked access to the popular video-sharing Web site YouTube because of clips allegedly insulting the country's founding father, according to reports Sunday."
AP reports: "A Turkish court has again blocked access to the popular video-sharing Web site YouTube because of clips allegedly insulting the country's founding father, according to reports Sunday."
Thursday, January 17, 2008
My Way News - UK Says It Wants to Tackle Net Terror
AP reports: "But Internet service providers and experts say they could be accused of corporate censorship and face a mess of lawsuits if they must carry out any government order to aggressively police the Internet."
AP reports: "But Internet service providers and experts say they could be accused of corporate censorship and face a mess of lawsuits if they must carry out any government order to aggressively police the Internet."
Thursday, January 03, 2008
My Way News - China Limits Providers of Internet Video
AP reports: "China has moved to restrict videos online, allowing only state-controlled sites to post any - including those shared by users - and requiring Internet providers to delete and report a variety of content."
AP reports: "China has moved to restrict videos online, allowing only state-controlled sites to post any - including those shared by users - and requiring Internet providers to delete and report a variety of content."
Monday, December 10, 2007
My Way News - Ask.com to Unveil New Privacy Control
AP reports: "Hoping to establish itself as the Internet's least intrusive search engine, Ask.com is empowering people to prevent their search requests from being deposited in data banks. The new privacy control, called "AskEraser," is scheduled to be unveiled Tuesday. When it's turned on, the safeguard purges a user's search requests from Ask.com's computers within a few hours."
For those of you looking to practice safe searching, this may be a good tool.
AP reports: "Hoping to establish itself as the Internet's least intrusive search engine, Ask.com is empowering people to prevent their search requests from being deposited in data banks. The new privacy control, called "AskEraser," is scheduled to be unveiled Tuesday. When it's turned on, the safeguard purges a user's search requests from Ask.com's computers within a few hours."
For those of you looking to practice safe searching, this may be a good tool.
Friday, December 07, 2007
Syria blocks access to Facebook - Yahoo! News
AP reports: "Syrian authorities have blocked Facebook, the popular Internet hangout, over what seems to be fears of Israeli 'infiltration' of Syrian social networks on the Net, according to residents and media reports."
AP reports: "Syrian authorities have blocked Facebook, the popular Internet hangout, over what seems to be fears of Israeli 'infiltration' of Syrian social networks on the Net, according to residents and media reports."
Thursday, November 01, 2007
My Way News - Video Web Site Gets Religion
AP reports: "GodTube.com, a video-sharing site with Christian content, drew more than 4 million unique visitors during October. It maintains more than 150,000 registered users with active profiles. Plans for the future include producing entertainment programs at the site's headquarters north of Dallas."
AP reports: "GodTube.com, a video-sharing site with Christian content, drew more than 4 million unique visitors during October. It maintains more than 150,000 registered users with active profiles. Plans for the future include producing entertainment programs at the site's headquarters north of Dallas."
Friday, October 12, 2007
My Way News - Swiss Votes to Use 'Unbreakable' Code
AP reports: "A new 'unbreakable' encryption method will be keep votes safe for citizens in the Swiss canton (state) of Geneva in the country's upcoming national elections, officials said Thursday. The city-state will use quantum technology to encrypt election results as they are sent to the capital on Oct. 21, said Nicolas Gisin of the University of Geneva."
Comment: While I'm not sure this technology will be not available to consumers for quite some time, it does seem like it's time for a PGP for the 21st Century.
AP reports: "A new 'unbreakable' encryption method will be keep votes safe for citizens in the Swiss canton (state) of Geneva in the country's upcoming national elections, officials said Thursday. The city-state will use quantum technology to encrypt election results as they are sent to the capital on Oct. 21, said Nicolas Gisin of the University of Geneva."
Comment: While I'm not sure this technology will be not available to consumers for quite some time, it does seem like it's time for a PGP for the 21st Century.
My Way News - China Censors Ratchet Up Web Monitoring
AP reports: "In the lead-up to the sensitive Communist Party Congress, which convenes Monday to approve top leaders who will serve under President Hu Jintao through 2012, authorities have been casting an even wider net than usual in their search for Web content they deem to be politically threatening or potentially destabilizing."
AP reports: "In the lead-up to the sensitive Communist Party Congress, which convenes Monday to approve top leaders who will serve under President Hu Jintao through 2012, authorities have been casting an even wider net than usual in their search for Web content they deem to be politically threatening or potentially destabilizing."
Wednesday, October 10, 2007
China Cracks Down on Dissent
Here are two news reports that suggest that the underground church in China is in for some very difficult times as the Olympics approach:
My Way News - China Closes Christian-Linked Businesses
AP reports: "China has closed two businesses whose owners allegedly sought Christian converts in a traditionally Muslim region and also revoked the visa of an American citizen for illegal proselytizing, a rights group said Wednesday."
My Way News - Rights Group Condemns China Net Controls
AP reports: "Though the communist government promotes Internet use, it also has set up an extensive surveillance and filtering system to prevent Chinese citizens from accessing material considered obscene or politically subversive."
Here are two news reports that suggest that the underground church in China is in for some very difficult times as the Olympics approach:
My Way News - China Closes Christian-Linked Businesses
AP reports: "China has closed two businesses whose owners allegedly sought Christian converts in a traditionally Muslim region and also revoked the visa of an American citizen for illegal proselytizing, a rights group said Wednesday."
My Way News - Rights Group Condemns China Net Controls
AP reports: "Though the communist government promotes Internet use, it also has set up an extensive surveillance and filtering system to prevent Chinese citizens from accessing material considered obscene or politically subversive."
Thursday, September 27, 2007
My Way News - Cell Phones, Web Spread News of Myanmar
AP reports: "Cell phones and the Internet are playing a crucial role in telling the world about Myanmar's pro-democracy protests, with video footage sometimes transmitted one frame at a time. Reporters Without Borders said Wednesday the junta has cut some cell phone service."
Comment: This is a great example of cyber dissidents using the internet to fight repression. It's also, unfortunately, an example of how a government can restrict internet access.
AP reports: "Cell phones and the Internet are playing a crucial role in telling the world about Myanmar's pro-democracy protests, with video footage sometimes transmitted one frame at a time. Reporters Without Borders said Wednesday the junta has cut some cell phone service."
Comment: This is a great example of cyber dissidents using the internet to fight repression. It's also, unfortunately, an example of how a government can restrict internet access.
Tuesday, September 11, 2007
My Way News - Chinese Catholic Bishop Dies in Custody
AP reports: "A bishop who led an underground congregation of Roman Catholics and was repeatedly detained in China for his loyalty to the Vatican died in police custody, a monitoring group said Tuesday. [...] China's officially atheist communist government requires that Christians of all denominations worship in state-registered churches. Millions, however, instead worship in underground churches - known as 'house churches' because services are often held in private homes - risking arrest, fines and official harassment."
AP reports: "A bishop who led an underground congregation of Roman Catholics and was repeatedly detained in China for his loyalty to the Vatican died in police custody, a monitoring group said Tuesday. [...] China's officially atheist communist government requires that Christians of all denominations worship in state-registered churches. Millions, however, instead worship in underground churches - known as 'house churches' because services are often held in private homes - risking arrest, fines and official harassment."
Saturday, September 01, 2007
GODSurfer.com
Here is a great resource to help promote Christian websites, articles, blogs and other internet resources. GODSurfer.com is:
Here is a great resource to help promote Christian websites, articles, blogs and other internet resources. GODSurfer.com is:
a tool to spread the good word of Jesus Christ to the world. This includes all faiths of Christianity (Catholic, Baptist, Lutheran, and Christian Non-Denominational). Although GODSurfer.com is tolorant of other religions and point of views the main point of GODSurfer.com is to spread the word of GOD to everyone who comes across this site.This site is similar to digg and reddit in that it allows registered members to vote on the submissions. So, benefit from the wisdom of the crowd, a Christian crowd, and visit GODSurfer.com today.
Internet Surveillance
Here is an interesting development, a proposal to enlist ISPs in government surveillance programs (Torrent Freak - Congressman wants ISPs to be Copyright Police):
Here is an interesting development, a proposal to enlist ISPs in government surveillance programs (Torrent Freak - Congressman wants ISPs to be Copyright Police):
With warrentless wiretapping sweeping the US, a leading congressman is proposing similar measures for the Internet. This isn't an attempt at "fighting terror" but instead a new measure to reduce so-called "piracy" by making the ISPs the police force.This is a proposal in the United States, but it's a reminder of the capability that all governments have to control the internet.
Wednesday, August 29, 2007
Protect your web searches
What's the best way to protect your web searches? This article from Lifehacker (Technophilia: Protect your web searches) recommends several basic strategies as well as some software and web services that can help you surf without leaving too much of a trail. This could be especially important for our brothers and sisters in China, where the government has just launched a new high visibility web surveillance program (BBC News - Virtual police patrol China web).
What's the best way to protect your web searches? This article from Lifehacker (Technophilia: Protect your web searches) recommends several basic strategies as well as some software and web services that can help you surf without leaving too much of a trail. This could be especially important for our brothers and sisters in China, where the government has just launched a new high visibility web surveillance program (BBC News - Virtual police patrol China web).
Tuesday, August 28, 2007
Wikiklesia
Here is a new effort to use internet technology to spread the gospel using a wiki type format:
Here is a new effort to use internet technology to spread the gospel using a wiki type format:
An online Christian publishing experiment called the Wikiklesia Project has produced its first collaborative ecclesial e-book, VOICES OF THE VIRTUAL WORLD.
The Wikiklesia Project collected the thoughts of more than 40 writers--from technologists to theologians--to reflect on the influence of technology on the global Christian church. The book took just a few weeks to complete, according to Wikiklesia co-founder John La Grou.
Could the project be a bellwether for changes in the church itself? "We long to see a church saturated with decentralized cooperation," according to the publisher's statement. "The improbable notion of books that effectively publish themselves is one of many ways that can help move us closer to this global ecclesial connectedness."
Tuesday, July 10, 2007
My Way News - Uri Geller Runs Afoul of YouTube Users
AP reports: "'All it takes is a single e-mail to completely censor someone on the Internet,' said Jason Schultz, a lawyer for the online civil rights group Electronic Frontier Foundation, which is suing Geller over an unflattering clip posted on YouTube for which he claimed a copyright ownership."
AP reports: "'All it takes is a single e-mail to completely censor someone on the Internet,' said Jason Schultz, a lawyer for the online civil rights group Electronic Frontier Foundation, which is suing Geller over an unflattering clip posted on YouTube for which he claimed a copyright ownership."
Monday, June 25, 2007
My Way News - Google Fights Global Internet Censorship
AP reports: "A study released last month by the OpenNet Initiative found that 25 of 41 countries surveyed engage in Internet censorship. That's a dramatic increase from the two or three countries guilty of the practice in 2002, says John Palfrey, executive director of the Berkman Center for Internet & Society at Harvard Law School, who helped prepare the report. China, Vietnam, Saudi Arabia, India, Singapore and Thailand, among others, are increasingly blocking or filtering Web pages, Palfrey says."
AP reports: "A study released last month by the OpenNet Initiative found that 25 of 41 countries surveyed engage in Internet censorship. That's a dramatic increase from the two or three countries guilty of the practice in 2002, says John Palfrey, executive director of the Berkman Center for Internet & Society at Harvard Law School, who helped prepare the report. China, Vietnam, Saudi Arabia, India, Singapore and Thailand, among others, are increasingly blocking or filtering Web pages, Palfrey says."
Wednesday, May 23, 2007
Internet Freedom
There are parts of the world in which Christians can not use the Internet to share the good news of the Gospel. Why? Because the Internet that many of us take for granted is under the control of countries hostile to the gospel. We think of the Internet as an open marketplace, the ultimate expression of the freedom to share ideas and opinions, but it is a marketplace in which the tools of control and surveillance are growing stronger in the hands of those least trustworthy. Consider this report by the OpenNet Initiative (AP - Study finds 25 countries block Web sites):
There are parts of the world in which Christians can not use the Internet to share the good news of the Gospel. Why? Because the Internet that many of us take for granted is under the control of countries hostile to the gospel. We think of the Internet as an open marketplace, the ultimate expression of the freedom to share ideas and opinions, but it is a marketplace in which the tools of control and surveillance are growing stronger in the hands of those least trustworthy. Consider this report by the OpenNet Initiative (AP - Study finds 25 countries block Web sites):
At least 25 countries around the world block Web sites for political, social or other reasons as governments seek to assert authority over a network meant to be borderless, according to a study out Friday. [...] China, Iran, Myanmar, Syria, Tunisia and Vietnam had the most extensive filters for political sites. Iran, Oman, Saudi Arabia, Sudan, Tunisia, the United Arab Emirates and Yemen had the strictest social-filtering practices, blocking pornography, gambling and gay and lesbian sites.What this report does not mention, and should, is that these countries consider the expression of Christian sentiments to be on a par with pornography and other blocked sites. This is yet another reminder that the Internet can be used as a tool for good or evil and while our task is to use it for good, we must also be aware of how it is being used and misused by those against religious and political freedom.
Wednesday, April 18, 2007
My Way News - Rights group accuses Yahoo of helping China arrest and torture
AP reports: "A human rights group sued Yahoo Inc. Wednesday on grounds the U.S. search company assisted China's communist government with torture by revealing information that led to the arrest of dissidents.[...] Activists, meanwhile, have criticized Cisco Systems Inc. for selling computer networking equipment that could potentially be used to monitor Internet use."
AP reports: "A human rights group sued Yahoo Inc. Wednesday on grounds the U.S. search company assisted China's communist government with torture by revealing information that led to the arrest of dissidents.[...] Activists, meanwhile, have criticized Cisco Systems Inc. for selling computer networking equipment that could potentially be used to monitor Internet use."
Wednesday, March 21, 2007
My Way News - New Service Creates Custom News Sites
AP reports: "A new service lets visitors create custom news sites centered around niche hobbies, business ventures and other special interests, pulling stories on the topic from some 25,000 news sources. [...] Congoo's new News Circles lets you pull news from about 480 predetermined categories or create your own using keywords. Once you've set up a circle, you can share the collection with friends and colleagues who have similar interests and needs. Others may add comments on specific items within the circle."
This could be a great resource for those interested in aggregating news reports related to Bible prophecy in general, or more specific topic areas like persecution or missionary work. I think I'll give it a try when I have some free time. If any of you are using this Congoo service, let us know what you think about it.
UPDATE: I created a site using the Congoo service, I called it Portents News Circle, and so far I have to say the service is interesting. I've added channels for news on Europe, Israel, Russia, Iran, Mideast, Syria, e-commerce, health, online banking, religion, data privacy, mobile industry and RFID. Please drop by and take a look. The service is also designed to be interactive, if you send me your e-mail address (or leave it in a comment below) I can have the service subscribe you and this will allow you to comment on the news. Their emphasis seems to be on community building. Anyway, give it a try, let's see how this works.
AP reports: "A new service lets visitors create custom news sites centered around niche hobbies, business ventures and other special interests, pulling stories on the topic from some 25,000 news sources. [...] Congoo's new News Circles lets you pull news from about 480 predetermined categories or create your own using keywords. Once you've set up a circle, you can share the collection with friends and colleagues who have similar interests and needs. Others may add comments on specific items within the circle."
This could be a great resource for those interested in aggregating news reports related to Bible prophecy in general, or more specific topic areas like persecution or missionary work. I think I'll give it a try when I have some free time. If any of you are using this Congoo service, let us know what you think about it.
UPDATE: I created a site using the Congoo service, I called it Portents News Circle, and so far I have to say the service is interesting. I've added channels for news on Europe, Israel, Russia, Iran, Mideast, Syria, e-commerce, health, online banking, religion, data privacy, mobile industry and RFID. Please drop by and take a look. The service is also designed to be interactive, if you send me your e-mail address (or leave it in a comment below) I can have the service subscribe you and this will allow you to comment on the news. Their emphasis seems to be on community building. Anyway, give it a try, let's see how this works.
Tuesday, March 13, 2007
My Way News - Outwardly Open, China Keeps Censoring
AP reports: "In the midst of a sensitive political season, China's machinery of state control is gearing up to make sure that nothing goes astray, including people's thinking."
AP reports: "In the midst of a sensitive political season, China's machinery of state control is gearing up to make sure that nothing goes astray, including people's thinking."
Friday, February 23, 2007
China leading crackdown on Internet: media watchdog - Yahoo News
AFP reports, "Backed by 'armies' of cyber-police, China is spearheading an increasingly sophisticated movement by repressive regimes to restrict the Internet, a global media watchdog said in its annual report.[...] China remains the most powerful force in controlling the Internet not just through technology, but through old-fashioned manpower and depth of resources, according to the watchdog."
AFP reports, "Backed by 'armies' of cyber-police, China is spearheading an increasingly sophisticated movement by repressive regimes to restrict the Internet, a global media watchdog said in its annual report.[...] China remains the most powerful force in controlling the Internet not just through technology, but through old-fashioned manpower and depth of resources, according to the watchdog."
Thursday, February 22, 2007
My Way News - Egyptian Blogger Gets 4 Years in Prison
AP reports: "An Egyptian blogger was convicted Thursday and sentenced to four years in prison for insulting Islam and Egypt's president, sending a chill through fellow Internet writers who fear a government crackdown."
AP reports: "An Egyptian blogger was convicted Thursday and sentenced to four years in prison for insulting Islam and Egypt's president, sending a chill through fellow Internet writers who fear a government crackdown."
Wednesday, February 07, 2007
Techdirt: German Court Says Police Cannot Put Spyware On Someone's Computer
Teckdirt reports: "As various legal systems grapple with new, technology-related issue, it appears that a German court has come down firmly against the idea of allowing police to use remote spying techniques to record what a suspect does on his or her computer."
Teckdirt reports: "As various legal systems grapple with new, technology-related issue, it appears that a German court has come down firmly against the idea of allowing police to use remote spying techniques to record what a suspect does on his or her computer."
Wednesday, January 17, 2007
Here is yet another optimistic report on the potential for the Internet to aid those living and working in oppressive regimes (TechDirt - Can A Wiki Force Transparency On Oppressive Regimes?):
In 1971, when Pentagon employee Daniel Ellsberg leaked classified documents to The New York Times detailing US aggression during the Vietnam War, he had to find a way to quietly photocopy thousands of pages. Today, he could just put everything up on a wiki. A new site called Wikileaks is offering a way for dissident government employees working under oppressive regimes to anonymously leak information on their government's behavior. The site, which is backed by proponents of ethical leaking, is chiefly targeting countries in Asia, the Middle East and Africa.Use a wiki, by all means, use all the tools that the Internet provides, but also understand that repressive governments will do everything in their power to turn this technology back on the user.
Thursday, November 09, 2006
My Way News - China: Web Censorship Report Groundless
AP reports: "China was one of 13 countries singled out by Reporters Without Borders in a 24-hour online protest Wednesday against Internet censorship. The others were: Belarus, Cuba, Egypt, Iran, Myanmar, North Korea, Saudi Arabia, Syria, Tunisia, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan and Vietnam." Interesting how most of these countries also actively persecute believers.
AP reports: "China was one of 13 countries singled out by Reporters Without Borders in a 24-hour online protest Wednesday against Internet censorship. The others were: Belarus, Cuba, Egypt, Iran, Myanmar, North Korea, Saudi Arabia, Syria, Tunisia, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan and Vietnam." Interesting how most of these countries also actively persecute believers.
Wednesday, November 01, 2006
Freedom and the Internet
Amnesty International is asking bloggers to show their support for the plight of fellow bloggers jailed for what they wrote in their online journals. The organization says freedom of expression and privacy "are under threat from governments that want to control what their citizens say, and what information they can access."
Amnesty International is asking bloggers to show their support for the plight of fellow bloggers jailed for what they wrote in their online journals. The organization says freedom of expression and privacy "are under threat from governments that want to control what their citizens say, and what information they can access."
Wednesday, September 20, 2006
What Are DigiTracts?
DigiTracts are presentations of the Good News of Jesus Christ. Each presentation includes music, animation and biblically sound content. You can view the DigiTracts online, download them to your computer or embed them in your own webpages to share with visitors.
DigiTracts are presentations of the Good News of Jesus Christ. Each presentation includes music, animation and biblically sound content. You can view the DigiTracts online, download them to your computer or embed them in your own webpages to share with visitors.
Thursday, July 13, 2006
WaPo - Cyber-Savvy Pastors Blog When the Spirit Moves Them
The Washington Post reports on how some churches and pastors are using the latest internet technology to share the gospel (Matthew 24:14):
The Washington Post reports on how some churches and pastors are using the latest internet technology to share the gospel (Matthew 24:14):
Reaching out to younger generations has long been one of the major challenges for ministers, but hundreds think they have found an answer in blogging. A growing number are taking the Gospel to the Web hoping to get people thinking daily about faith. Many pastors say blogging has become an increasingly integral part of their ministry as they attempt to reverse the decline in church attendance by people in their twenties and thirties.I think this is a great idea and I think all churches should have official blogs and all Christian writers should be encouraged to start blogs and share their faith on the internet.
Sunday, June 18, 2006
Godcasting
USA Today reports ('Godcasting:' Love that new-time religion) on churches using the latest technology, including HD broadcasting and podcasting, to share the gospel. With the internet, the world is your pulpit.
USA Today reports ('Godcasting:' Love that new-time religion) on churches using the latest technology, including HD broadcasting and podcasting, to share the gospel. With the internet, the world is your pulpit.
Tuesday, February 07, 2006
InformationWeek - Five Ways To Keep Your Google Searches Private
IWeek reports, "Word that the government has been seeking search data from Google has struck fear into the hearts of Internet Explorer and Firefox users. Here are five simple steps to keep outsiders from uncovering private information about your Web browsing habits."
IWeek reports, "Word that the government has been seeking search data from Google has struck fear into the hearts of Internet Explorer and Firefox users. Here are five simple steps to keep outsiders from uncovering private information about your Web browsing habits."
Wednesday, January 25, 2006
Google's Dangerous Kowtow to China
Google won liberty points last week for fighting a federal subpeana to turn over massive amounts of search data to the U.S. government. They earn demerits this week for agreeing to censor their search engine to satisfy Beijing's desire for social and political control (BBC - Google move 'black day' for China). What happened to Google's "do no evil" motto?
Google won liberty points last week for fighting a federal subpeana to turn over massive amounts of search data to the U.S. government. They earn demerits this week for agreeing to censor their search engine to satisfy Beijing's desire for social and political control (BBC - Google move 'black day' for China). What happened to Google's "do no evil" motto?
Friday, December 02, 2005
Bloggers Fight Repression
Some time ago I linked to a news report about a guide published to help bloggers avoid the tactics used by repressive governments to control the Internet. The guide contains information that would be useful to human rights activists and missionaries operating in China, Saudi Arabia, North Korea and other countries that limit free expression. There is a chance that the news report may be outdated and the link may have expired, but the guide itself can be found here in PDF.
Some time ago I linked to a news report about a guide published to help bloggers avoid the tactics used by repressive governments to control the Internet. The guide contains information that would be useful to human rights activists and missionaries operating in China, Saudi Arabia, North Korea and other countries that limit free expression. There is a chance that the news report may be outdated and the link may have expired, but the guide itself can be found here in PDF.
Wednesday, November 09, 2005
Using Mobile Devices
The Web Evangelism Newsletter had a report about using mobile devices to share the gospel:
The Web Evangelism Newsletter had a report about using mobile devices to share the gospel:
Although mobile devices have been with us for some years, till now there have not been too many avenues to use the medium for evangelism. With theNow that the enemy is preparing to send porn to mobile devices, I think it's only fair to counter with the Gospel.
new 3G devices, things may change. At last it is practical to download, and pass to friends, video and cartoon clips. There is great potential for short specially-made downloads of this type, and Christians are discussing the best way to utilize this medium. They recommend ATS Tracts as one of several groups developing material in this area. Finally, check out the Gospelcom guide to mobile tech.
Tuesday, November 08, 2005
Guardian Unlimited - State Dept. Cites Saudi Arabia on Rights
The Guardian Unlimited reports on the release of the annual U.S. State Department report on religious freedom:
The Guardian Unlimited reports on the release of the annual U.S. State Department report on religious freedom:
The State Department cited Saudi Arabia on Tuesday for denying religious freedom to non-Muslims and found fault to a lesser degree with other allies including Israel, Belgium, France, Germany and Pakistan...Burma was accused of severe violations of religious freedom. China was faulted for showing insufficient respect for freedom of religion, Cuba for controlling and monitoring religious activities, and North Korea for not permitting religious freedom at all. Listed as hostile toward minority or nonapproved religions were Eritrea, Iran, Laos, Sudan, Uzbekistan and Vietnam, as well as Saudi Arabia. The State Department said that in Iran, Sunni Muslims, Bahais, Jews and Christians reported imprisonment, harassment, intimidation and discrimination based on religious belief. Burma was accused of severe violations of religious freedom. China was faulted for showing insufficient respect for freedom of religion, Cuba for controlling and monitoring religious activities, and North Korea for not permitting religious freedom at all. Listed as hostile toward minority or nonapproved religions were Eritrea, Iran, Laos, Sudan, Uzbekistan and Vietnam, as well as Saudi Arabia. The State Department said that in Iran, Sunni Muslims, Bahais, Jews and Christians reported imprisonment, harassment, intimidation and discrimination based on religious belief.Let's agree to pray for the persecuted church in these countries, that they will persevere and continue to shine the light of hope amid dark oppression.
Tuesday, November 01, 2005
IFC - The Aftermath of GodBlogCon
Internet For Christians (IFC) Andy Rau gives a post-conference report for all of us who missed it:
Internet For Christians (IFC) Andy Rau gives a post-conference report for all of us who missed it:
October 28, 2005 -- GodBlogCon is over, but even if you didn't attend, you can benefit from the conference, as the media reports on it and as attendees blog about their experiences. An article at Wired provides a good basic overview of the conference's goals and highlights. If you want more specific details on the conference, the GodBlogCon blog is the place to check--it's got links to the many bloggers who attended and blogged their impressions, experiences, and opinions. In particular, this post provides a comprehensive look at reactions from all over the internet. Thanks to the conference and its blogging attendees for sharing their conference experiences online for everyone who couldn't make it this year!Wow, I wish I could have gone. I didn't even hear about it until after it was underway...maybe next year.
Thursday, October 27, 2005
Miami Herald - 'Left Behind' screened in 3,200 churches
The latest installment in the film version of the blockbuster Left Behind books (and blog inspiration) is being screened in churches and will soon be available to consumers.
The latest installment in the film version of the blockbuster Left Behind books (and blog inspiration) is being screened in churches and will soon be available to consumers.
Saturday, October 15, 2005
Yahoo News - 'God Bloggers' Head to National Conference
Christians are finding news ways to share the Good News: blogging. Yes, using blogs (just like this one) Christians have found yet another tool to present the message of salvation. This AP news report talks about the first national conference for "God bloggers" being held now at Biola University. More information on the conference can be found on the official "GodBlogCon 2005" website.
Christians are finding news ways to share the Good News: blogging. Yes, using blogs (just like this one) Christians have found yet another tool to present the message of salvation. This AP news report talks about the first national conference for "God bloggers" being held now at Biola University. More information on the conference can be found on the official "GodBlogCon 2005" website.
Tuesday, September 27, 2005
My Way News - China Wants Only 'Healthy' News on Web
"China said Sunday it is imposing new regulations to control content on its news Web sites and will allow the posting of only 'healthy and civilized' news...Online dissidents who post items critical of the government, or those expressing opinions in chatrooms, are regularly arrested and charged under vaguely worded state security laws."
"China said Sunday it is imposing new regulations to control content on its news Web sites and will allow the posting of only 'healthy and civilized' news...Online dissidents who post items critical of the government, or those expressing opinions in chatrooms, are regularly arrested and charged under vaguely worded state security laws."
Thursday, September 22, 2005
Evading the Censors
Suppose you are a missionary or human rights worker operating in a repressive country, how would you go about evading Internet censorship? The Reporters Without Borders group has the answer (Yahoo News - Guide Aims to Help Bloggers Beat Censors):
Suppose you are a missionary or human rights worker operating in a repressive country, how would you go about evading Internet censorship? The Reporters Without Borders group has the answer (Yahoo News - Guide Aims to Help Bloggers Beat Censors):
A Paris-based media watchdog has released a free guide with tips for bloggers and dissidents to sneak past Internet censors in countries from China to Iran. Reporters Without Borders' "Handbook for Bloggers and Cyber-Dissidents" is partly financed by the French Foreign Ministry and includes technical advice on how to remain anonymous online. It was launched at the Apple Expo computer show in Paris on Thursday and can be downloaded in Chinese, Arabic, Persian, English and French.Let's hope this guide offers timely assistance to those shining the light of freedom (both spiritual and political) in the world's darkest places.
Wednesday, September 07, 2005
Arab Outreach
The Internet For Christians website recommends the Joshua Project as a resource for missionary outreach.
The Internet For Christians website recommends the Joshua Project as a resource for missionary outreach.
Saturday, September 03, 2005
Christians Respond to Katrina
The Christian web portal Internet For Christians offers to following information on how Christians all over the world are responding to the hurricane disaster:
The Christian web portal Internet For Christians offers to following information on how Christians all over the world are responding to the hurricane disaster:
How have Christians around the world reacted to the suffering and devastation unleashed by Hurricane Katrina? With prayer and financial giving, according to a CrossWalk report that describes major disaster relief efforts by religion organizations like the Salvation Army, Southern Baptist Convention, and Christian Reformed World Relief Committee. A Yahoo News story describes massive, worldwide prayer directed towards New Orleans, refugees and rescuers. Many relief organizations are reporting generous donations from Christians and others. For more information about the developing situation and the Christian response to it, the Christianity Today weblog has more updates.
Sunday, August 21, 2005
Religion News Blog
The Religion News Blog (RNB) provides religion researchers, media personnel, authors, legal professionals, academics and other interested parties with expert-selected news items about religious movements, cults, sects, world religions and related issues (including ethics and human rights concerns).
The Religion News Blog (RNB) provides religion researchers, media personnel, authors, legal professionals, academics and other interested parties with expert-selected news items about religious movements, cults, sects, world religions and related issues (including ethics and human rights concerns).
Friday, July 29, 2005
Bible Commentary Online
Internet For Christians offers yet another invaluable resource for those using the Internet to share the Good News: Classic Bible Commentaries, sponsored by E-Word Today makes it easy to access any commentary author, chapter and book, with cross-links to all authors, chapters and books--only one click away. The Web site also links closely with Bible Gateway so Web surfers can read a Bible passage and read several commentaries about the passage.
Internet For Christians offers yet another invaluable resource for those using the Internet to share the Good News: Classic Bible Commentaries, sponsored by E-Word Today makes it easy to access any commentary author, chapter and book, with cross-links to all authors, chapters and books--only one click away. The Web site also links closely with Bible Gateway so Web surfers can read a Bible passage and read several commentaries about the passage.
Thursday, July 14, 2005
Thought Factory Preaches with Reason
Here is another outstanding resource recommended by Internet For Christians. According to their review, the Thought Factory introduces people to Jesus through interviews, people profiles, and topical articles. IFC calls it a, "good example of Christianity, culture and the Internet intersecting to reach out to Web users."
Here is another outstanding resource recommended by Internet For Christians. According to their review, the Thought Factory introduces people to Jesus through interviews, people profiles, and topical articles. IFC calls it a, "good example of Christianity, culture and the Internet intersecting to reach out to Web users."
Sunday, July 10, 2005
Christians Respond to London Terror Attacks
Christians all over the world are joined in prayer for the victims of the terrorist attacks in London, for their families and loved ones, and for the search for those responsible. Prayer points for the situation are covered in this UK-based Christian news site.
Christians all over the world are joined in prayer for the victims of the terrorist attacks in London, for their families and loved ones, and for the search for those responsible. Prayer points for the situation are covered in this UK-based Christian news site.
Sunday, June 26, 2005
Billy Graham's Last Crusade
The greatest living Christian evangelist will take his bow tonight on the stage in New York. This AP report (MyWay News - Graham to Give Last Crusade Sermon Tonight) demonstrates the reach of his amazing ministry:
The greatest living Christian evangelist will take his bow tonight on the stage in New York. This AP report (MyWay News - Graham to Give Last Crusade Sermon Tonight) demonstrates the reach of his amazing ministry:
Graham has preached to more than 210 million people in 185 countries. He has been sought out by U.S. presidents and leaders worldwide and, more than any other religious figure, has come to represent the American evangelical movement.One of the things I admire about Billy Graham is the way he has always preached the simplicity of the gospel message of salvation through faith in Jesus. Times have changed over the many years of his ministry and the church has changed in many ways, but his message has remained true to the gospel. For more information on the crusade and on Billy Graham, visit the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association. I think his approach is a model for the church in the end times, stay true to the gospel message, don't get distracted by new trends and ideologies, by materialism and culture wars, keep focused on the central message of salvation. The time is short.
Thursday, June 23, 2005
Podcasting The Gospel
A podcast is a radio-style show that anyone with a microphone can make on a computer and post to a web site server and they are big now and getting bigger all the time (ipodnn - Report: podcast popularity to skyrocket). Free receiving software allows people to pick podcasts from online directories, download them to any MP3 player such as an Apple iPod -- hence the term "podcast" -- and listen to them at their leisure. So, is anyone out there podcasting the Gospel? Know any good Bible prophecy podcasts? Please use the comments link to recommend your favorite podcasts.
A podcast is a radio-style show that anyone with a microphone can make on a computer and post to a web site server and they are big now and getting bigger all the time (ipodnn - Report: podcast popularity to skyrocket). Free receiving software allows people to pick podcasts from online directories, download them to any MP3 player such as an Apple iPod -- hence the term "podcast" -- and listen to them at their leisure. So, is anyone out there podcasting the Gospel? Know any good Bible prophecy podcasts? Please use the comments link to recommend your favorite podcasts.
Wednesday, June 15, 2005
Online Bible Commentaries
Peggie Bohanon of Internet for Christians recommends this set of Bible commentaries: Wycliffe Associates (UK) present the EasyEnglish Bible, a "major new resource of evangelical, theologically-checked, Bible commentaries and Bible texts." These free resources, written in a simple English form developed by Wycliffe Associates (UK), include Bible commentaries, Bible translations, Bible studies and more. These commentaries, noted to be "theologically advanced," are especially valuable for those who do not speak English as a second language and are available for free download or to read online.
Peggie Bohanon of Internet for Christians recommends this set of Bible commentaries: Wycliffe Associates (UK) present the EasyEnglish Bible, a "major new resource of evangelical, theologically-checked, Bible commentaries and Bible texts." These free resources, written in a simple English form developed by Wycliffe Associates (UK), include Bible commentaries, Bible translations, Bible studies and more. These commentaries, noted to be "theologically advanced," are especially valuable for those who do not speak English as a second language and are available for free download or to read online.
Tuesday, June 14, 2005
Microsoft Helps China Censor the Net
This blog is not about China, but since there is a large underground church in China and China is known as a repressive government, we do mention China quite a bit here. This story about China seeking to control the Internet has been unfolding for some time. China sees the Internet as a tool of commerce, something that can help the country's great leap forward as a totalitarian capitalist society. I'm not sure such a variant has ever existed, but China seems determined to prove that it can. The problem with the Internet is that it also allows people to share information and ideas, and that can be dangerous to a one-party dictatorship. Last week was the anniversary of the 1989 Tiananmen Square Massacre in which the People's Liberation Army liberated student pro-democracy demonstrators from the shackles of this mortal coil and demonstrated the official party policy on the merits of democracy. Long before that a famous dead communist said that a capitalist will sell you the rope you can use to hang him. We seem to be witnessing the same phenomenon here as Western corporations rush to provide China everything they need to modernize their country (and military) while keeping firm control over their citizen subjects. Major Western corporations like Microsoft are selling technology to China that allows them to monitor and suppress the use of such dangerous keywords as "democracy" and "freedom" on the Internet, including on blogs like this one (InternetNews.com - MSN China Agrees to Ban 'Freedom'). I call upon Christian investors to let Microsoft know they do not wish their money used in support of tyranny and the repression of religious and political minorities.
This blog is not about China, but since there is a large underground church in China and China is known as a repressive government, we do mention China quite a bit here. This story about China seeking to control the Internet has been unfolding for some time. China sees the Internet as a tool of commerce, something that can help the country's great leap forward as a totalitarian capitalist society. I'm not sure such a variant has ever existed, but China seems determined to prove that it can. The problem with the Internet is that it also allows people to share information and ideas, and that can be dangerous to a one-party dictatorship. Last week was the anniversary of the 1989 Tiananmen Square Massacre in which the People's Liberation Army liberated student pro-democracy demonstrators from the shackles of this mortal coil and demonstrated the official party policy on the merits of democracy. Long before that a famous dead communist said that a capitalist will sell you the rope you can use to hang him. We seem to be witnessing the same phenomenon here as Western corporations rush to provide China everything they need to modernize their country (and military) while keeping firm control over their citizen subjects. Major Western corporations like Microsoft are selling technology to China that allows them to monitor and suppress the use of such dangerous keywords as "democracy" and "freedom" on the Internet, including on blogs like this one (InternetNews.com - MSN China Agrees to Ban 'Freedom'). I call upon Christian investors to let Microsoft know they do not wish their money used in support of tyranny and the repression of religious and political minorities.
Thursday, June 09, 2005
China Cracks Down, Again
And speaking of China (as we were a few posts back), a new initiative has been announced to control the Internet in that country. According to this report (China to close unregistered domestic Web sites) from NEWS.COM, "China soon will close unregistered domestic Web sites and blogs as the government tightens its grip on the Internet..." This report also notes studies by other media watchdogs who called China, "the world's leading censor of the Internet and said its government employed thousands of officials and private citizens to monitor and control online content." China is demonstrating that an oppressive government can crack down on Internet fueled dissent even in the 21st Century. This does not bode well for the house church movement in China. In many cases, the technology and software that allows China to monitor and control the Internet is being provided by Western companies. I think it is important for Christian investors and voters to let their voice be heard, Western companies should not be profiting from the persecution of political and religious minorities. The techniques of control and intimidation used in China will be exported to other countries, to the Middle East and Africa. The time to act is now, build alliances with underground churches so that lines of communication can remain open, and if your skills run toward the technical side, help them find ways around these new restrictions.
And speaking of China (as we were a few posts back), a new initiative has been announced to control the Internet in that country. According to this report (China to close unregistered domestic Web sites) from NEWS.COM, "China soon will close unregistered domestic Web sites and blogs as the government tightens its grip on the Internet..." This report also notes studies by other media watchdogs who called China, "the world's leading censor of the Internet and said its government employed thousands of officials and private citizens to monitor and control online content." China is demonstrating that an oppressive government can crack down on Internet fueled dissent even in the 21st Century. This does not bode well for the house church movement in China. In many cases, the technology and software that allows China to monitor and control the Internet is being provided by Western companies. I think it is important for Christian investors and voters to let their voice be heard, Western companies should not be profiting from the persecution of political and religious minorities. The techniques of control and intimidation used in China will be exported to other countries, to the Middle East and Africa. The time to act is now, build alliances with underground churches so that lines of communication can remain open, and if your skills run toward the technical side, help them find ways around these new restrictions.
Tuesday, June 07, 2005
Believers Persecuted
Saudi Arabia is denying that they persecute Christians (AP - Saudis Deny Persecuting Christians). Let's immediately send in a crack squad of missionaries to test their religious tolerance.
Saudi Arabia is denying that they persecute Christians (AP - Saudis Deny Persecuting Christians). Let's immediately send in a crack squad of missionaries to test their religious tolerance.
Saturday, June 04, 2005
Friday, June 03, 2005
Oppression Will Be Blogged
This news report (Censored Singaporeans take to the Internet for free speech - Yahoo! News) suggests that it is still possible to use the Internet to fight an oppressive government. It would appear that Singapore is not quite as adept as China in managing online dissent, but give them time, I'm sure they will catch up. This is the time to use the Internet for witnessing and missionary work in oppressive countries, before governments like Singapore and China master the art of censoring the net.
This news report (Censored Singaporeans take to the Internet for free speech - Yahoo! News) suggests that it is still possible to use the Internet to fight an oppressive government. It would appear that Singapore is not quite as adept as China in managing online dissent, but give them time, I'm sure they will catch up. This is the time to use the Internet for witnessing and missionary work in oppressive countries, before governments like Singapore and China master the art of censoring the net.
Wednesday, June 01, 2005
The Bible Blog
Andy Rau of Internet For Christians recommends this resource, it's a blog about the Bible by the people who translate the Bible. Andy's recommendation: The translators of the English Standard Version Bible have started a blog at which to talk about the ESV, answering questions about the translation and offering related news and information. It's not the first time we've seen an informational website about a Bible translation--not too long ago, an extensive website was set up by the International Bible Society to answer questions and release news about the TNIV Bible -- but this may be the first time a blog has been used for such a purpose. Even if you're not interested in the ESV Bible itself, this is an interesting example of a ministry using a blog to spread information about its services. (Hat tip: Blogs4God.)
Andy Rau of Internet For Christians recommends this resource, it's a blog about the Bible by the people who translate the Bible. Andy's recommendation: The translators of the English Standard Version Bible have started a blog at which to talk about the ESV, answering questions about the translation and offering related news and information. It's not the first time we've seen an informational website about a Bible translation--not too long ago, an extensive website was set up by the International Bible Society to answer questions and release news about the TNIV Bible -- but this may be the first time a blog has been used for such a purpose. Even if you're not interested in the ESV Bible itself, this is an interesting example of a ministry using a blog to spread information about its services. (Hat tip: Blogs4God.)
Sunday, May 08, 2005
Blogging For Human Rights
The idea that the Internet can shine a spotlight on oppression and promote freedom is being revived by bloggers. Human Rights Watch is making an appeal to bloggers to get involved. As their press release puts it:
The idea that the Internet can shine a spotlight on oppression and promote freedom is being revived by bloggers. Human Rights Watch is making an appeal to bloggers to get involved. As their press release puts it:
If you are a blogger, you can use your bully pulpit to stand with the victims and activists to prevent discrimination, uphold political freedom, protect people from inhumane treatment in wartime, and campaign to bring offenders to justice. You can expose human rights violations and hold abusers accountable. You can challenge governments and those who hold power to end abusive practices and respect international human rights law.I'm all for that, especially if Christian bloggers can use their voice to combat religious persecution.
Saturday, April 30, 2005
Secure E-Mail Provider Hacked
The Hushmail secure e-mail service that I've previously recommended here was hacked. As this report (Yahoo News - Hushmail DNS Attack Blamed on Network Solutions ) makes clear, the company was not at fault, it was the domain registrar that allowed impostors to gain access to their DNS settings. Still, it's clear that someone doesn't like the idea of consumers having access to secure electronic communication. Secure e-mail is of great use to missionaries working in repressive countries and every TF cell should have some means of secure communication, if only to let VOM and Amnesty know what is really going on.
The Hushmail secure e-mail service that I've previously recommended here was hacked. As this report (Yahoo News - Hushmail DNS Attack Blamed on Network Solutions ) makes clear, the company was not at fault, it was the domain registrar that allowed impostors to gain access to their DNS settings. Still, it's clear that someone doesn't like the idea of consumers having access to secure electronic communication. Secure e-mail is of great use to missionaries working in repressive countries and every TF cell should have some means of secure communication, if only to let VOM and Amnesty know what is really going on.
Saturday, April 23, 2005
Persecuted Church
If you are looking for news and information on persecution, check out a new site called Christian Monitor. They collect news reports from all over the world and make them easily available to their readers.
If you are looking for news and information on persecution, check out a new site called Christian Monitor. They collect news reports from all over the world and make them easily available to their readers.
Thursday, March 31, 2005
New Webs for Old Words
Peggie Bohanon of Internet for Christians recommends Words Online, a web project providing a thematic presentation of the words of Jesus. The purpose of the project, according to publisher Lee Cantelon, "is to extend, especially to those alienated or distanced to the Christian message by culture, personal or political barriers, the opportunity to approach the words of Jesus, and to discover, firsthand, His call." The site offers more than two dozen translations of the words of Jesus, and a growing number of audio narrations. Download "The Words" for personal reading, study or distribution. A reading room is provided, as well as a gallery of Christian images, MP3 downloadable files and editions for the Palm Pilot.
Peggie Bohanon of Internet for Christians recommends Words Online, a web project providing a thematic presentation of the words of Jesus. The purpose of the project, according to publisher Lee Cantelon, "is to extend, especially to those alienated or distanced to the Christian message by culture, personal or political barriers, the opportunity to approach the words of Jesus, and to discover, firsthand, His call." The site offers more than two dozen translations of the words of Jesus, and a growing number of audio narrations. Download "The Words" for personal reading, study or distribution. A reading room is provided, as well as a gallery of Christian images, MP3 downloadable files and editions for the Palm Pilot.
Wednesday, March 30, 2005
Terrorism on the Web
According to this CNN report, "Islamic militants who want the world to witness their attacks and beheadings in Iraq have engineered new ways to ensure their videos appear on the Internet, defying efforts to banish them from cyberspace." I think we should turn the tables on them and produce more Christian web pages. How about web sites devoted to sharing information on how to set up underground house churches in Saudi Arabia?
According to this CNN report, "Islamic militants who want the world to witness their attacks and beheadings in Iraq have engineered new ways to ensure their videos appear on the Internet, defying efforts to banish them from cyberspace." I think we should turn the tables on them and produce more Christian web pages. How about web sites devoted to sharing information on how to set up underground house churches in Saudi Arabia?
Friday, January 21, 2005
Iran Cracks Down
Hoder notes that Iran is cracking down on use of certain Internet destinations and he recommends a strategy for fighting Net censorship in Iran.
Hoder notes that Iran is cracking down on use of certain Internet destinations and he recommends a strategy for fighting Net censorship in Iran.
Thursday, January 06, 2005
Women of the Way
Peggie Bohanon of Internet For Christians notes this resource for persecuted Christian women living in repressive countries.
Peggie Bohanon of Internet For Christians notes this resource for persecuted Christian women living in repressive countries.
Monday, January 03, 2005
Turning The Tables
This report from the New York Times (On the Open Internet, a Web of Dark Alleys) reveals how terrorists are using the internet to communicate in secret. I think it would be a nice idea to turn the tables and for missionaries operating in repressive countries like Saudi Arabia and China to use these same techniques to communicate. I especially like the creative use of webmail accounts to share information without actually ever sending an e-mail.
This report from the New York Times (On the Open Internet, a Web of Dark Alleys) reveals how terrorists are using the internet to communicate in secret. I think it would be a nice idea to turn the tables and for missionaries operating in repressive countries like Saudi Arabia and China to use these same techniques to communicate. I especially like the creative use of webmail accounts to share information without actually ever sending an e-mail.
Saturday, January 01, 2005
Religion Today - Groups Mobilize Disaster Aid
The above link to Religion Today cites a Charisma News Service report on how Christian groups are responding to the SE Asian disaster. The scope of this disaster is truly hard to comprehend, but we can be certain of the spiritual response that is required of us: pray for those in need, provide for those in need, and witness (Matthew 24:14) to those in need.
The above link to Religion Today cites a Charisma News Service report on how Christian groups are responding to the SE Asian disaster. The scope of this disaster is truly hard to comprehend, but we can be certain of the spiritual response that is required of us: pray for those in need, provide for those in need, and witness (Matthew 24:14) to those in need.
Tuesday, December 21, 2004
China Online
All Internet traffic in China goes through five hubs, making it relatively easy for sites to be blocked. If you are interested in which sites are blocked and why, read this report.
All Internet traffic in China goes through five hubs, making it relatively easy for sites to be blocked. If you are interested in which sites are blocked and why, read this report.
Thursday, October 28, 2004
Is Your Web Ministry Effective?
Andy Rau of Internet For Christians recommends Effective Web Ministry Notes, a new blog dedicated to the topic of web ministry is online, and it looks like an excellent resource for anyone trying to build a better evangelistic or ministry Web site. Topics covered so far include the importance of links (both to and from your site), the challenge of designing for a target audience, and the always-scary subjects of marketing and branding.
Andy Rau of Internet For Christians recommends Effective Web Ministry Notes, a new blog dedicated to the topic of web ministry is online, and it looks like an excellent resource for anyone trying to build a better evangelistic or ministry Web site. Topics covered so far include the importance of links (both to and from your site), the challenge of designing for a target audience, and the always-scary subjects of marketing and branding.
Wednesday, October 13, 2004
Our Daily Cross
Christian Web Site.Com recommends this site for Christian Ecards, weather, chat, bible studies, online sermons, power point, email, web hosting, everything a Christian on the web needs!
Christian Web Site.Com recommends this site for Christian Ecards, weather, chat, bible studies, online sermons, power point, email, web hosting, everything a Christian on the web needs!
Monday, October 04, 2004
IFC - Comic Book Evangelism
Internet For Christians (IFC) shares this creative method for sharing the gospel with a younger audience: Can people learn about Christ through a comic book? Absolutely--ask Tony Whittaker of Web Evangelism Bulletin, who promotes unusual and creative ways by which people can come to know the Lord. He Lived Among Us is an evangelistic comic book telling the story of Jesus in comic-strip format. Designed for non-Western audiences, the comic book is available in a wide range of languages. Not only are you invited to view and/or link to the Web site, you may also download the entire set of graphics in your chosen language and display them on your own Web site.
Internet For Christians (IFC) shares this creative method for sharing the gospel with a younger audience: Can people learn about Christ through a comic book? Absolutely--ask Tony Whittaker of Web Evangelism Bulletin, who promotes unusual and creative ways by which people can come to know the Lord. He Lived Among Us is an evangelistic comic book telling the story of Jesus in comic-strip format. Designed for non-Western audiences, the comic book is available in a wide range of languages. Not only are you invited to view and/or link to the Web site, you may also download the entire set of graphics in your chosen language and display them on your own Web site.
Saturday, October 02, 2004
CNN - Google Bows to Chinese Censorship
An interesting news report from CNN. We have talked in the past about whether the Left Behind series presents a credible example of how believers could use the Internet to share the gospel during the Tribulation, or even today in a totalitarian country. In LB we see how Buck and the Trib Force use the Internet to post their web magazine The Truth and Tsion Ben-Judah's website, exposing Carpathia and teaching people about salvation and the meaning of prophetic events. But, could they do this without being shut down by the GC? From casual tracking of this topic, I would have to say it would be a very difficult thing to do. This CNN report demonstrates that even today, a repressive country like China has the ability to filter the Internet and control what portions of the web citizens can access. The sad thing is, American companies are actually providing this technology to China, technology that will be used to crack down on democracy activist and the underground church. Should Christians support companies that aid and enable persecution? Should Americans support companies that repress democracy and human rights?
An interesting news report from CNN. We have talked in the past about whether the Left Behind series presents a credible example of how believers could use the Internet to share the gospel during the Tribulation, or even today in a totalitarian country. In LB we see how Buck and the Trib Force use the Internet to post their web magazine The Truth and Tsion Ben-Judah's website, exposing Carpathia and teaching people about salvation and the meaning of prophetic events. But, could they do this without being shut down by the GC? From casual tracking of this topic, I would have to say it would be a very difficult thing to do. This CNN report demonstrates that even today, a repressive country like China has the ability to filter the Internet and control what portions of the web citizens can access. The sad thing is, American companies are actually providing this technology to China, technology that will be used to crack down on democracy activist and the underground church. Should Christians support companies that aid and enable persecution? Should Americans support companies that repress democracy and human rights?
Saturday, September 11, 2004
International Prayer Day For Jerusalem
Charisma News Service reports on the latest developments in organizing the upcoming International Prayer Day for Jerusalem, which will take place on October 3rd.
Charisma News Service reports on the latest developments in organizing the upcoming International Prayer Day for Jerusalem, which will take place on October 3rd.
Thursday, August 12, 2004
Wednesday, August 11, 2004
Tuesday, August 10, 2004
Sunday, July 25, 2004
The Roman Road System - God's Highway
The Web Evangelism Newsletter offers the following: Calvin Conkey of Create International points out the parallel between the Internet (designed originally with a military purpose, which quickly expanded to trade and other communication) and the Roman Road System, built for entirely the same purpose 2000 years earlier. It was the presence of Roman roads throughout most of the known world, that facilitated the rapid spread of the Gospel. Likewise the Internet has the same potential as a network to carry the Gospel.
The Web Evangelism Newsletter offers the following: Calvin Conkey of Create International points out the parallel between the Internet (designed originally with a military purpose, which quickly expanded to trade and other communication) and the Roman Road System, built for entirely the same purpose 2000 years earlier. It was the presence of Roman roads throughout most of the known world, that facilitated the rapid spread of the Gospel. Likewise the Internet has the same potential as a network to carry the Gospel.
Sunday, July 18, 2004
Bible Network News
This is a great resource for news from around the world about how Christians are translating, publishing and distributing the Bible.
This is a great resource for news from around the world about how Christians are translating, publishing and distributing the Bible.
Wednesday, July 14, 2004
A Chronicle of the Christian Faith
Blog-style collection of recent news articles from around the country and the world.
Blog-style collection of recent news articles from around the country and the world.
Friday, July 09, 2004
Stand to Reason
This is an organization aimed at building Christian thinkers for the public defense of the faith. The site includes articles, newsletter, online courses, and recommended books.
This is an organization aimed at building Christian thinkers for the public defense of the faith. The site includes articles, newsletter, online courses, and recommended books.
Friday, July 02, 2004
China Extends Text Message Surveillance
According to this AP report, "Chinese authorities plan to employ new technology to improve surveillance of mobile phone messages amid efforts to intensify the policing of private communications, reports said Friday." China has once again demonstrated the power of a totalitarian government to control the Internet. I wonder if this technology will be used against the unregistered house church movement in China?
According to this AP report, "Chinese authorities plan to employ new technology to improve surveillance of mobile phone messages amid efforts to intensify the policing of private communications, reports said Friday." China has once again demonstrated the power of a totalitarian government to control the Internet. I wonder if this technology will be used against the unregistered house church movement in China?
Wednesday, June 30, 2004
Small Bible groups increase in popularity
News Leader.Com reports on the rise in small worship groups and house churches: "Although they are steadily growing in popularity, home groups are nothing new. In fact, they date all the way back to the New Testament. Dan Lentz, director of smallgroups.com, said a great model for small groups can be found in the second chapter of Acts of the Apostles. He created an acronym, F.L.O.W., which stands for fellowship, learning, outreach and worship."
News Leader.Com reports on the rise in small worship groups and house churches: "Although they are steadily growing in popularity, home groups are nothing new. In fact, they date all the way back to the New Testament. Dan Lentz, director of smallgroups.com, said a great model for small groups can be found in the second chapter of Acts of the Apostles. He created an acronym, F.L.O.W., which stands for fellowship, learning, outreach and worship."
Friday, June 25, 2004
Using the Internet Against the Enemy
According to this AP report, "Al-Qaida-linked terror groups and their sympathizers have in recent months made a big splash on the Internet, making it their communications channel of choice. They're benefiting from free discussion boards, e-mail accounts and other online forums for propaganda, recruitment, fund-raising and even planning." One of the reasons I created the Trib Force Toolkit was to encourage Christians to use the Internet and all the resources we have available to share the Gospel, the Good News of salvation and eternal life through Jesus. Let's turn the table on the enemy of humanity, the one that seeks to cause us to kill each other, and shine sime light in the darkness.
According to this AP report, "Al-Qaida-linked terror groups and their sympathizers have in recent months made a big splash on the Internet, making it their communications channel of choice. They're benefiting from free discussion boards, e-mail accounts and other online forums for propaganda, recruitment, fund-raising and even planning." One of the reasons I created the Trib Force Toolkit was to encourage Christians to use the Internet and all the resources we have available to share the Gospel, the Good News of salvation and eternal life through Jesus. Let's turn the table on the enemy of humanity, the one that seeks to cause us to kill each other, and shine sime light in the darkness.
Wednesday, June 02, 2004
Christians Called To Emphasize World Evangelism This Sunday
Religion Today reports, "Southern Baptists are encouraging tens of thousands of churches to join in prayer and fasting this Sunday in observance of an annual event that emphasizes evangelism of those peoples around the world that have not yet been reached for Christ.
Religion Today reports, "Southern Baptists are encouraging tens of thousands of churches to join in prayer and fasting this Sunday in observance of an annual event that emphasizes evangelism of those peoples around the world that have not yet been reached for Christ.
Wednesday, May 26, 2004
Prayer Gear
PrayerGear is a site with a wide range of topics and recommended links by John S. Hilkevich - he describes his ministry as "Education, Research and Advocacy in the Christian Faith".
PrayerGear is a site with a wide range of topics and recommended links by John S. Hilkevich - he describes his ministry as "Education, Research and Advocacy in the Christian Faith".
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