(Originally Posted Nov 2011)
I have used this audio to teach a men’s class when filling in at church (when the regular teacher was on mission). As part of this update I just wanna note a post detailing my acknowledgement and position on the entire Ravi “fallout.” My old tribute to Ravi has a new intro that explains the entire thing. I still confidently say enjoy the MESSAGE, not the deliverer:
UPDATE
Which itself is actually an old video from 2010’ish
I wanted to add this update with a sermon excerpt noting another “miracle” of God imprinted on us. It has ta do with what is called “laminim.”
Here is a basic rundown of Laminim:
What Is Laminin?
Laminin is a protein that is part of the extracellular matrix in humans and animals. The extracellular matrix (ECM) lies outside of cells and provides support and attachment for cells inside organs (along with many other functions). Laminin has “arms” that associate with other laminin molecules to form sheets and bind to cells. Laminin and other ECM proteins essentially “glue” the cells (such as those lining the stomach and intestines) to a foundation of connective tissue. This keeps the cells in place and allows them to function properly. The structure of laminin is very important for its function (as is true for all proteins). One type of congenital muscular dystrophy results from defects in laminin.
Yes, I know all the “rebuttals” of this amino acid.
You hold it sideways, it looks like a sword.
It isn’t always straight like a cross. Sometimes it looks like a “shot put Olympian.”
Yada, yada.
Remember, it ISN’T being used as “evidence” to prove God exists. Rather, it is an evidence to those who already believe in God. It is similar to Protestant’s views on good works. Good works come after you are saved, not that good works save you or assist in your salvation. One view pre-dates, the other post-dates.
It is being used analogously to bring home a Biblical truth, and, a visual one at that. Here is a multiple micron-microscope of the laminim, for the record:
AIG, even though the article is a mixed bag of caution, goes on to note the following:
- One of the early papers on the structure and function of laminin said this: “Globular and rodlike domains are arranged in an extended four-armed, cruciform shape that is well suited for mediating between distant sites on cells and other components of the extracellular matrix” (emphasis mine).
K. Beck, I. Hunter, and J. Engel, “Structure and Function of Laminin: Anatomy of a Multidomain Glycoprotein,” The FASEB Journal 4 (1990): 148–160, doi:10.1096/fasebj.4.2.2404817.
Here is a great two paragraph explainer that sets the skeptic and the Christian who misinterpret the presentation as a “proof” of God rather than a beautiful picture of God’s grace and sacrifice.
Having watched Louie’s video several times over the years, I believe he is saying laminin [cross-shaped proteins] is an illustration, a signpost pointing to the reality of Colossians 1:17, Jesus holding all things, including us, together, and he’s not saying that laminin is literally the meaning of that verse. But I could see how someone could take his words that way.
I found this short analysis helpful. Here’s an excerpt: “The structure of laminin is only an image which by itself does not necessarily prove anything. However, when this image is considered as a parallel to the symbolic aspect of the cross and the religious significance therein, a resounding message appears: laminin is to our bodies as Jesus is to our souls. No proofs or support, nor debates, just a beautiful picture.”
With all that in mind (and my inane thought after the video), the presentation is still excellent!
After seeing the mixed micron microscope of the various laminim pictures above, I suppose you could say it also resembles the DRI guy.
Lol.
What is my “inane,” humorous thought? I am thinking of the Biblical passage that says,
- Whoever does not bear his own cross and come after me cannot be my disciple. (CSB, Lk 14:27)
Does this mean I have this “box” checked?