Bad news.

[St. Augustine's Pears]

Regarding PetFanInCt's comments...

As unpopular as that sounds, it is probably true.

First off...my prayers go out to Darrell's family and friends. Now, NO ONE deserves to be murdered, but "Dimebag" Darrell was a very talented guitarist for one of heavy metal's most well-loved bands (Pantera), and therefore considered a "music celebrity". Celebrities always have to be on the look-out for crazy fans, stalkers, etc. That is the price you pay for being famous. On one hand, you get recognition, fame, and fortune...but on the other hand, you lose your privacy, and you become the target for not only the paparazzi, but also some very unstable people. If you don't want the "burdens" of being a music celebrity, don't become famous (and sign that lucrative big-label contract).

Second, I do not believe "Dimebag" Darrell was even close to being a Christian. Pantera were heavily in favor of marijuana legalization, were featured frequently in the pro-pot magazine "High Times", and even had a pot leaf printed on their posters, T-shirts, etc. Heck, even Darrell's nickname was a drug reference. Plus, have you read some of Pantera's song titles? "Cemetary Gates"..."F**kin' Hostile"..."God***n Electric"...to name a few. Darrell, being a co-founder of Pantera, was either a writer or co-writer of all their songs, so he must have had input into the making of these songs. Also, the members of Pantera were antagonistic towards the "concept" of Christianity. I remember reading "metal" magazines before I got saved, and both Phil Anselmo (Pantera's vocalist) and Darrell said some derogatory remarks about Christianity.

Third...many rock/metal musicians are releasing statements of condolences, praising Darrell for his love of music, his fans, and fellow musicians, saying how he was "one of the most loving, caring men in the music business". Well, I hate to break it to these people, but...being nice does not get you into heaven! Only a sincere faith in Jesus Christ as your Lord and Saviour does! Many people believe that God is this kindly, grandfatherly figure that sits in heaven judging no one, and that you only miss heaven if you do something "really bad", like murder, child molestation, rape, etc. Yes, God is love, grace, and forgiveness...but God is also a consuming fire. And if Darrell went thru his life on this planet not wanting to have anything to do with Jesus, then he will go thru eternity separated from Him, as well.

This is why the gospel is not popular with the majority of mankind. People do not want to admit to being sinners, and they also do not want to accept Jesus as their Lord and Saviour. The bible is very clear-cut on salvation...you only have the life on this side of the veil to accept Jesus, and once you have taken your last breath and died, it is too late. No more chances. Today is the day of salvation...do not put it off, for tomorrow might never come.

Unfortunately, I think "Dimebag" Darrell never made that all-important decision for Christ.

[SamScales]

Pears,

Thanks for that message. Man, makes you wonder if someone that knew him or came in contact with him and was a Christian ever told him......

This just really reminded me how important it is for us to share Christ with people we come in contact with. Somehow tell them that Jesus loves them and pray for God to open the doors for a conversation.....