Will You Be A 24%(er) in 2013?

Heb. 10:25 ~ Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching.

In late 2012 The PEW Research Center set forth information regarding church attendance in the United States that suggested that approximately 79 % of Americans claimed that they identified with an "organized" church or religious group, while 45% said they attended service regularly. Quite naturally this lead to the conclusion that most folk, which identify with organized religion, were also church attendees.

In an October 2012 NPR report, science correspondent Shankar Vedantam, took a look at the data and the assumptions drawn from the PEW report. What he found was that there was a difference between what people "say" about their religion and organizations of faith than what they actually do regarding their faith. More specifically, Mr. Vedantam, pointed out that questions regarding religious affiliation usually shift from what one actually does by way of attendance and physical support, toward what one "feels" about their preferred group. In other words, most people feel strongly and have a preferred group of faith, but at the same time, not everyone attends or supports their preferred group with their presence.

The Time Diary Method 

Columbo: Surely, that wasn't you at the golf course because you  were at church the the morning of July 15th 2012 at 11:00 AM...Right?

The "time diary method" is a method of questioning that asks individuals to recount their exact whereabouts at a particular time and moment. Similar to how Detective Columbo (Peter Faulk- for those of us who still remember his screen genius) in a seemingly dumbfounded moment, asked the last question while exiting, to let the criminal affirm what he already knew. In this case, the "time diary method" allowed those that say they support a church an opportunity to expose themselves to through their own actions by following when and how often they actually attended a service with their personal presence.  

This difference in Vendatam's questioning led to the conclusion that on average, only about 24% of all of them that say that they support a certain faith were actually in attendance or physically in support of their church the previous week. In other words some are saying that they believe or in this case, have a church, but are not regular attendees. 

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Sandy Hook, Free Will & Tragedy. What Is The Relationship?

Since the unfortunate murders of over 26 fellow Americans in the Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting, the question has been posed over and over, why God did not stop the killer from killing innocent children and professionals taking care of them? 

We have to acknowledge that this is a valid sentiment and one that makes sense from a human standpoint. However, we also must acknowledge that we may never know many of life's mysteries but because we don't know something doesn't mean that there is no valid reason for it. 

The Character, Nature & The Existence Of God Called Into Question

The questions that we hear regarding the Sandy Hook tragedy are age old. It is simply the Problem of Evil or what is called The Epicurean Paradox. Here is a version of it, applicable to this discourse: 

• If God is anything, he must be all powerful and have the ability to do anything including prevent tragedy. 
• If he is God he certainly he could have stopped the gunman, by either saving him then and there on the spot, striking him dead beforehand or even causing his gun to jam or any number of things that would have prevented him from doing what he did BEFORE the killing rampage. 

The final part to this thought is that 

• If God is indifferent, he is not good and therefore not God, or 
• If he is powerless to prevent tragedy, he is not God as he would not be all powerful. 

The deduction here is that God simply doesn't exist. Although the first premise is flawed and invalidates all the others parts to the paradox, I believe that this is one of the primary arguments being levied as it pertains to God and religion in the Sandy Hook case or experience.  

What Can Be Said?

Many things...In reality, I know some people who are saved today because God stopped or redirected a 

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A "National Conversation" ..."We Can Do Better Than This"

Our hearts of sincere prayer, love and respect go out to all of the families whose children and loved one's were victims of the Sandy Hook Elementary school slayings. We are praying for the community and extended family as well. As a parent of 2 children and as one intimately involved in the public school system trying to make it better for all children, my heart is overwhelmed, but we are in expectation of a blessing of comfort from and out of all the pain. 

Last Friday 12/14/2012 morning, a demon possessed man entered a lower grade elementary school in Newtown, Connecticut with the intent on killing as many children and school personnel as he possibly could. Although it was a cowardly act, unfortunately he was successful in taking 26 bright and beautiful lives out of our midst before even more cowardly turning the gun on himself and taking his own life. Authorities are yet searching for answers or the "reason" why a man could do this, especially to children and those otherwise defenseless individuals. In all 20 beautiful children and 6 adults charged with caring for the children lost their lives. It appears that the murderer began by taking his own mother's life before embarking on a killing spree that will always be known as one of the nations worst. Needless to say, countless others and even a whole nation are directly effected by these events. 

The "National Conversation"

These events have sparked a new buzz word among media professionals. It is called the "National Conversation" Using this phrase, and an agenda focused on laws and cultural standards, all kinds of individuals and institutions claim to be framing what America should talk about in light of this tragedy. 

In the effort to come to an answer that can be understood, some have claimed that:

1- We need tighter gun control laws & screening procedures. 

2- We need better funding and services for mental health recipients.

3- We need more and better security at our schools.

I'll add this one...

4- We need more MEN in the school educating our children. (The presence of men itself is good for children and could be a deterrent to illegal activity by itself. It seems that there is currently no national conversation regarding this one, at least as it pertains to this issue.)  

While all of these things may be true, and certainly notable, what, if anything will any of these things do to remove the evil from the hearts of those who think to commit such atrocities? We should also ask, are these things the only things that should be talked about in light of these events?

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The Freedom & Progression Of Pentecostalism

Dr. Dale T. Irvin, President NYTS
Supt. Harvey Burnett

Recently, I had the opportunity to visit New York Theological Seminary (NYTS) to discuss a number of important issues and educational matters. I also had the opportunity to sit in on and provide input in the Global Pentecostalism class conducted by NYTS President Dr. Dale T. Irvin, Professor Of World Christianity.

I would first like to say that I appreciate NYTS and have become their new fan. Not only is the NYTS staff dedicated to education, they are also dedicated to the mission of Christ and the expansion of Christ's Kingdom aka: the salvation of souls. As I observed on my visit, NY is a ripe and fertile ground for the proliferation of the gospel and the preaching of Christ. So I commend NYTS for their dedication, efforts, and service and pray continued blessings upon them. 

In the Global Pentecostalism class, Dr. Irvin has taken the time to meticulously outline the growth of the Pentecostal movement, not only in America, but around the world, by referencing such works such as "Black Fire: One Hundred Years Of Africa American Pentecostalism" by Estrelda Y. Alexander (InterVarsity Press 2011) and "The Spirit Poured Out on All Flesh: Pentecostalism and the Possibility of Global Theology" by Amos Yong (Baker Academic 2005). Dr. Irvin points out that Pentecostalism was not simply a product of the early 1900's Asuza St. Revival, but it was a phenomena that embraced the world through various spiritual events and what became known as organizations even tracing it's biblical roots back to Acts 2 which states in verse 4: 

 v. 4 ~ And they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance.

Tongues 

Pentecostalism is the fastest growing Christian movement in the world. In shortly over a 100 year span, the number of adherents to Pentecostalism and Pentecostal doctrines, has nearly eclipsed the growth of every major Christian denomination. Though, from a biblical standpoint, there were other elements of the

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Women In Ministry & Sexism Within The Christian Church Pt. 2

New ~ Women In The Leadership/Ministry PDF 7 Primary Arguments In Favor ~ New

As a result of the original article on the subject entitled "Women In Ministry & Sexism Within The Christian Church" I was able to enter into a discussion/debate with Pastor Saiko Woods on a bolgtalk radio segment called His Word His Way. The entire segment is listed below for your review.

In part of the show, the host implored the use of  1 Tim 3, which many believe is the strongest argument in support of "men only" in church leadership within the corporate and organized Christian church.

Here is the scripture:

1 Timothy 3:1-7 ~ 1-This is a true saying, If a man desire the office of a bishop, he desireth a good work. 2-A bishop then must be blameless, the husband of one wife, vigilant, sober, of good behaviour, given to hospitality, apt to teach; 3-Not given to wine, no striker, not greedy of filthy lucre; but patient, not a brawler, not covetous; 4-One that ruleth well his own house, having his children in subjection with all gravity; 5-(For if a man know not how to rule his own house, how shall he take care of the church of God?) 6-Not a novice, lest being lifted up with pride he fall into the condemnation of the devil. 7-Moreover he must have a good report of them which are without; lest he fall into reproach and the snare of the devil.

I have noted (darkened) all the references using male gender specific words. The host basically pointed out that statements such as those in bold above are the key to this argument, and provides, based on grammatical construction, solid evidence that women were excluded from leadership ministry. He also pointed out that the word "Bishop" primarily could mean elder, pastor, or overseer. Therefore,  his conclusion was that women certainly could not pastor or lead in any capacity and to do so was not only spiritual deceit, but also ultimately a sin.

Is This True & Does 1 Tim. 3:1-7 Make The Case For Male Only Leadership In Ministry & Within The Christian Church? 

Quite naturally, when one reads and if all one relies upon are how we use pronouns such as "he" and statements such as "husband of one wife" the case seems to have a punch solidifying the thought  that only MEN or individuals of the male gender are allowed in these type of positions. It sounds good, even appears to be true upon superficial review, but what we actually note from scripture may set the notion that woman are excluded from leadership ministry on it's head.

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COGIC Issues Pt. 4..."A Man's Church And A Man's World"

I hope and trust that all the Saints of God and readers of this blog had a happy and joyous Thanksgiving and are having a happy and joyous Holiday season.Yes, we all have so much to be thankful for and I am thankful for the service you render to God and your continued prayers!

Sometimes our plans for ministry are altered or changed from the very beginning. There are many things that we don't start off wanting or desiring to do. (step up Jonah and testify) It is always much more easy to comply with the will of men, some of whom are convinced that they hold the key to the personal and spiritual success of others. From a biblical standpoint, we should be reminded that only God grants favor and only he promotes, sets down and raises up, and that is ONLY according to HIS purpose and will as HE deems fit.  

With those things noted, still at times, we are thrust into situations according to God given and God directed convictions on issues. Many of us recognize this constraint toward truth and the fulfillment of purpose as the "calling of God". 

The Call Within The Call

1 Cor. 7: 20-24 ~ 20-Let every man abide in the same calling wherein he was called. 21-Art thou called being a servant? care not for it: but if thou mayest be made free, use it rather. 22-For he that is called in the Lord, being a servant, is the Lord's freeman: likewise also he that is called, being free, is Christ's servant. 23-Ye are bought with a price; be not ye the servants of men. 24-Brethren, let every man, wherein he is called, therein abide with God.

Desiring for individuals to be healed from the dreadful pain and disease of clergy and church related sexual abuse is no less than a calling of God for me. Focusing on the healing of those who have suffered and been victimized as a result of church related and clergy sexual abuse is nothing that I set out to do or accomplish when I acknowledged the call of God in my life some almost 27 years ago. 

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Is COGIC A "Safe Place" & The 2012 Press Conference

(If YOU or someone you know has been victimized, call I Am My Brother's Keeper (IMBKCAC) or email us at Imbkcac@gmail.com. All  inquiries are CONFIDENTIAL)

Many of our readers know that I conducted a Press Conference on Clergy sexual abuse and victims advocacy at the 2012 Holy Convocation. At least I scheduled a press conference and did manage to do an interview which I will post shortly. In a minute I'll tell you the results of that press conference and what transpired. Until then enjoy this snippet of a message from our Presiding Bishop's address on Official Day.

Now, that certainly sounded like a great message. "I believe that children are the future" sounds so familiar...In fact this is the part of that snippet that especially caught my attention:

"The church has got to be a safety zone for our children. If you are a pedophile, if you are a child molester  if you are a child abuser, if you are determined to pursue sexual misconduct, then either get right or get out!"

Didn't that sound good???

If What He Said Is True, Then Please Tell Me Why...

As I stated in a Press Release regarding COGIC's absentee victims advocacy policy, that I made shortly before the Presidential election, I was on my way to STL to ask church leaders, and the candidates (over 23 of them for the General Board) to undertake the issues of victims advocacy, which is an area that this Grand Ole Church has yet to touch...In other words, the children and adults that suffer from sexual abuse and church or clergy misconduct have NO ONE inside the church or associated with it in any way to help readjust their lives whether spiritually or emotionally and the church does NOTHING to help a victim heal from the atrocity that they have suffered. In many cases they are stepping in to clear themselves of liability or paying settlement funds, but there is nothing in place resembling a victims advocacy plan and neither is there anything considered in spite of my efforts to bring the focus to the issue.

Victim's Advocacy IS NOT A Zero Tolerance Policy. OK, do I have to say once again that a a zero tolerance policy against clergy sexual misconduct and screening of pastors and leaders IS NOT a victims advocacy policy???? It seems like I have to consistently say this especially to people who should know the difference. A "zero tolerance policy" is certainly a step in the right direction, but it is NOT a victims advocacy policy. Do we really not understand the difference between the two? I only ask because most every one I speak to in leadership, either doesn't know the difference or wants me to believe that they don't know the difference. As I tell my kids, "I can't call it", but what I do know is that is the case....That is a sad case, but it is true.

Contacting The Presiding Bishop

Well, out of honor and respect, even though my 2009 proposal faxed to Bishop Blake and the then General Board went unacknowledged, I tried once again to engage our Presiding Bishop by contacting him through his personal assistant by email in STL the night before the conference was to take place seeking to establish a partnership with him seeking to work together in addressing this very important and serious issue. My tone was positive reserving the right to speak truth.

Here is the part that should be of special interest to every person who is a member of COGIC and otherwise, that has received misinformation and LIES regarding my efforts; this is what I said to the Bishop in a letter to him:

"So that you will know, unlike some of my friends and associates, I am not willing to bash our church. However, I am willing to tell the truth in effort that we can come to greater and higher accountability and implement programs in favor of those who have suffered the greatest among our ranks."

One can read the full email letter that I sent to Bishop Blake and  that he received, by clicking HERE.

What Happened?

Well, the Press conference was delayed due to my late arrival. (about 30 minutes ) Clearly this was not a COGIC press session...COGIC did not call it at all. I,  through I Am My Brother's Keeper Christian Advocacy Council,  called the conference and media inquiry, complete with our phone number and email for clarification, questions or concerns.

Unfortunately, some media asked COGIC about the Press Conference. When that happened, COGIC press core evidently had been instructed to inform the media that the press conference, which they had nothing to do with, had been cancelled....WHAAAAAT???? CANCELLED????

This is the interview with Erin Williams of STL. Public Radio regarding the issue. 

Who instructed COGIC Press Core and staff to tell the media that a press conference that I Am My Brother's Keeper Christian Advocacy Council had called regarding clergy sexual abuse and the lack of a victims advocacy policy within the Church Of God In Christ, had been cancelled??? Better yet, why would COGIC officials evidently  INSTRUCT the press core officials to tell the media that a press conference,  which implicitly and explicitly deals with the safety of CHILDREN and adults that suffer from church related abuse, had been cancelled???

Is the church really a "safety zone"? Then why are the voices calling for the safety of individuals through advocacy  SILENCED?Why is there obfuscation on the issue???

Now, before one begins to shout and say that "the Lord confused the enemy", which is invariably a certain statement of ignorance and scriptural illiteracy as it pertains to this issue, one should ask, who is the enemy???...Is the enemy the one stifling the victims that have been abused and suffering life changing atrocities, or is the enemy those who speak up for the victims trying to find a way to make their lives better???

The Rest Of The Story

The reason I am taking time to explain this is because many people, and I say many people were praying for this event and praying for some acknowledgement from COGIC over the plight of victims of this type of ungodly abuse at the hand of COGIC personnel. I certainly appreciate all the prayers and support I received for this, but we're not through yet...

Once I saw where this was going I did two things in response. First, I held the Press Conference anyway. 

The full text of what I said in a prepared statement can be found by clicking HERE.

Of course, this was to the dismay of some reporters who contacted my office, complaining that there was no press conference after the fact. When I explained the situation, they (members of the press) finally understood that they should have read and followed the instructions in the release, because none of the press realized that they were entering into the COGIC landmine of obfuscation and excuses for poor service and misdirection...and Yes, I did endorse this message....

The Search

Secondly, along with my my personal assistant who witnessed the entire series of events, I went to the administrative offices to speak with Bishop Blake and Bishop Enoch Perry. After finding their section of St. Louis, I made it known clearly who I was and that I would await for them to meet me, as I desired to speak with them, and had heard that at least Bishop Enoch desired the same. After a brief wait, we were told that they were unavailable due to meetings and that they couldn't speak...Not even their assistants were available to speak with us. 

I thought that funny because only two weeks prior Enoch Perry himself had spoken to my Bishop, Bishop Robert Sanders of Illinois Third, asking him all kinds of questions about me, even having my report payment history in front of him. Go for the MONEY....It seemed that now that I was in his presence, neither he nor any of our Presiding Bishop's assistants could meet with me or discuss any issues of exactly why I was doing what I was doing or even ask any questions pertaining to it at all. 

For The Critic: 

Invariably, there are corporate lovers, and cronies that will see the corporation of COGIC right no matter what is done. That's OK, I am not trying to prove it wrong as a corporation. What I am saying is that there is far too much lip service given to the issues and no impetus placed on those who have lost and had their world turned upside down due to the sins of some, deemed charlatans. 

2012 COGIC Presiding Bishop
& General Board

Why am I talking about the church and officials like this? First, because it is 100% TRUE. Secondly, because it is horrific for our leaders to chase financial improprieties as they do, making those situations high priority looking to find dollars that they think are lost,  while at the same time making very little time for anyone that solely wants to address the value of human life and assist in addressing the plight of victims who have been hurt due to these type of clergy sins and abusive situations...

The question is how can anyone contend that serving victims as we do with utter silence and distribution of checks under the right circumstance is Godly service or according to a biblical mandate? How can the church continue to roll on without a victims advocacy simply because the impression is that this would mean admission of guilt and potentially cost the church more money....

OK, if it costs the church $800,000 per claim of sexual impropriety according to the statements of our Presiding Bishop in the COGIC General Assembly record, and we can trace the loss of jurisdictions, property, not to mention the disheartening of countless souls, how can we simply get by....Let me ask this:

If Penn State University COULD NOT get by, because, in essence, it did not handle victims properly, how can the Church Of God In Christ feel that it will get by if it continues to fall derelict in serving the spiritual needs of those among us who have been damaged by clergy and church abuse? How can we escape if we don;t provide a tangible and real way to help them? Are the new and reappointed General Board members of this church ready to deal with this issue? One thing is for sure...the issue is NOT going away!!!!!

Blessed!

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The New 2012 COGIC General Board

We would like to extend a warm congratulations to the new COGIC General Board Members pictured below. 

In order of their election and vote totals they are as follows:

Bishop Charles E. BLAKE 2970 (retained as Presiding Bishop, ran unopposed)
Bishop Jerry MACKLIN 2655
Bishop J. D. SHEARD 2605
Bishop P. A. BROOKS 2545
Bishop Sedwick DANIELS 2528
Bishop Frank WHITE 2451
Bishop George MCKINNEY 2393
Bishop Roy L. WINBUSH 2275
Bishop Nathaniel WELLS 2038
Bishop  Brandon PORTER 2011
Bishop THOMAS 1447
Bishop Lawrence WOOTEN 1398

In my next post I will ask the question:

"What will you do with this new opportunity?"

Blessed! 

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105th Annual COGIC Holy Convocation & Victims Advocacy Press Release

As you can see, "Seeking God's Way...Through Prayer, Obedience, And the Word"  is the theme for the 105th annual COGIC Holy Convocation which begins Monday Nov. 5th - 13th 2012.

With a church General Board election in which over 23 candidates are vieing for 12 seats of position of what has been otherwise deemed to be "power", and a National Presidential election, all on the heels of one of the worst hurricanes that the Eastern United States has seen in almost 2 decades, makes it a sure bet that this week promises to be an historic and event filled week one way or another.

Is There HOPE?

Yes, there is hope, and the good news is that the theme points us in the right direction.

IF we are seeking "God's way"...he has promised that we will find it

IF we are going to God in prayer for HIS intervention...he has promised to answer.

IF we are looking to make sure that we are obedient unto HIM...he has promised that IT (the act of obedience) is better than any sacrifice that could be made.

and

IF we are seeking HIS WORD...HE will not hide himself and will make it abundantly known as it is HIS WORD that has established the order of all that we see and are aware of and all that is unseen and unknown to us.

We Need Clarity Because There Are Issues?

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The Anomaly Of The Black Conservative...How Should We Vote?

New Audio Radio-Casts For This Article

The Anomaly Of The Black Conservative Pt. 1

The Anomaly Of The Black Conservative Pt. 2

This election season there has not been more of a heatedly debated topic. "How should the Christian vote?" "should religion and faith have any impact on the voting process? "and if so, who should the Christian vote for especially considering the liberal, if not non-bible believing President, and a Mormon (Non -Christian) Presidential candidate. Within the Black community the argument has been ramped up to include that the thought that "You're Not Black If You Don't Vote For Obama" Which I discussed in a previous post entitled The New Civil Rights.

This conflict has been sadly revealed and heightened to epic proportions as people criticize others for their political choices in the most vile ways and manner. While individuals such as former NBA star and

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Fear To VICTORY, Overcoming COGIC Clergy Sexual Abuse & Silence

Go To: I Am My Brother's Keeper Christian Advocacy Council
Links Have Been Updated!
Fear To Victory, Overcoming COGIC Clergy Sexual Abuse Pt. 1 

Fear To Victory, Overcoming COGIC Clergy Sexual Abuse Pt. 2 

Fear To Victory, Overcoming COGIC Clergy Sexual Abuse Pt. 3
For The First Time Hear SURVIVORS of COGIC Clergy Sexual Abuse Tell Their Own Story 

Since 2007 this ministry has worked hard to fight for and give voice to the victims of sexual abuse and clergy sexual sins within the Church Of God In Christ.  In 2011 Elder D.L. Foster of ReportCOGICAbuse.com and myself conducted a 2 part interview ( COGIC Issues Pt. 1, COGIC Issues Pt. 2) regarding the level and depth of victimization that had taken place within our church. One of the areas that was addressed was the church's failure to acknowledge those who have been victimized by the ungodly actions of certain individuals who simply lived contrary to their faith by  failing to understand the standard of responsibility that they were supposed to have maintained by shepherding the flock of God and protecting those members of it at all times. 

1 Pet. 5:2-3 ~ "2-Feed the flock of God which is among you, taking the oversight thereof, not by constraint, but willingly; not for filthy lucre, but of a ready mind; 3-Neither as being lords over God's heritage, but being ensamples to the flock."

Although we are are glad that the church has taken steps to assure that leaders are properly screened and vetted before becoming COGIC pastors and representative leaders, and for what is called a "zero-tolerance policy" against sexual harassment and abuse, we are yet saddened because of the continued culture of silence that exists as it pertains to how the abused are treated, and the overall official church response to such issues of vital importance. Plainly speaking, it seems that the church feels, that it is better to avoid the victims all together, saying nothing to them or their families in any official capacity and, on occasion, writing a check to make victims go away, rather than pouring the healing salve of Jesus.

Over 20 Years In The Making

Needless to say, being unresponsive to victims that have endured hardships and pains, much of which may never fully be told, is a second victimization of those that have been damaged by clergy sexual sins. This victimization is a deafening silence in response to accusations,  and failure to act swiftly in the removal of those who have engaged in criminal activity. 

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You Too Can Be A SLUT...

Illinois SLUTS for Obama bring "SLUT Buttons" to DNC

Politics has hit an all time new LOW

In and advertising campaign that would potentially embarrass even Velvet Jones, a feminist delegation from Illinois  of the Democratic National Convention has taken the 2012 election campaign to an all new low level of mass and utter confusion. Now for the first time in American history, the feminist movement, in trying to pander for votes, has sold and distributed over 1,000 "SLUT Buttons" with demand and orders for more.

"They're going like hot cakes" ~ Barb Brown Illinois Delegate, Chester, IL.  

Sandra Fluke

In a move to capitalize on the statements by Rush Limbaugh regarding Georgetown Law student Sandra Fluke earlier this year, the "SLUT Buttons" cannot stay stocked as the DNC nears it's opening. Proudly displaying the message that "SLUTS VOTE" with the underlying message "for Obama" the promoters hope to drive home the message that if a women's right to choose is what makes one a slut, then SLUTS they are.

The Ultimate Red Herring 

The ONLY problem with that sentiment, is that it is a totally created and made up argument. It is certainly a diversionary tactic. Rush Limbaugh, didn't blame or call Sandra Fluke a "SLUT" for her "right to choose". According to Sandra's own testimony, she wanted the ordinary citizen (you and me) to pay for her NON-MEDICALLY NECESSARY contraception,  and testified on Capitol Hill in favor of that provision within what is now called the Affordable Care Act aka: Universal Health Care Law. 

See President Obama's "Private Citizen" Pt. 1 The Dunamis Word View YouTube

Comedian Rush Limbaugh

Sandra believes that instead of paying for her NON-MEDICALLY NECESSARY CONTRACEPTION, that it should be included as a part of the overall benefits of the law. Rush Limbaugh, in response to her testimony reduced her argument in practical terms, and in an over the top fashion, simply said that she (Sandra) should be ashamed because she in essence wanted the common citizen to pay for her ability to have sex. He went on to call her a SLUT based on her desire to make the tax paying citizen a supporter of her sexual activities. His argument was a TRUE argument based on the facts presented.  

So the SLUT part of the conversation and Limbaugh's commentary was never about a "woman's right to choose" it was about the law being used to subvert the American taxpayer, businesses and other institutions into supporting the sexual activities and personal choices of others.

See President Obama's "Private Citizen" Pt. 2 The Dunamis Word View YouTube

So the feminists from Illinois are at a minimum trying to recast the conversation, by claiming that their opposition thinks that women are SLUTS who believe in "the right to choose".  

Not only is the argument a lie, based on a total fabrication of made up and unsupportable facts, it flies in the face of every rational and sane human being and Democratic woman. Can you believe that being a SLUT is now en-vogue for Democrat women? 

Poor North Carolina...

Not long ago, the citizens of North Carolina stood boldly to say to the President and homo-agenda promoting organizations such as the HRC and others, that they did not want the sexual perversion of homosexual marriage to change their laws. The citizens of North Carolina stood strong and, thank God, they won. 

Now, the state must endure the barrage of people calling themselves SLUTS and saying that they are proud of the designation. What's more, they are calling themselves "SLUTS for Obama", a Black President, when there is already a negative perception of Black men that is a hold over from the Civil Rights era. 

I wonder will our beloved President call Kim Hess of Granite City, IL (the creator of the buttons) and tell her that sentiments such as these "have no place in public discourse"?  

Or will he simply be happy and say, "I'm President Obama and I approved this message, now leave my SLUTS alone!" 

It remains to be seen!!!

Blessed!   

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ZoNATION...Need I Say More?

What I've been trying to say, but just didn't have the words-LOL...BRAVO!

Blessed!

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Could Mormon "Apostles" Control A President?

"We believe the Bible to be the word of God as far as it is translated correctly."

(The LDS 8th Article Of Faith)

One thing that is clear: the Presidential election of 2012 will be as historic as the Presidential election of 2008. For the first time in our nations history either a Black (ultra liberal "Christian") man will be reelected as President or a Mormon will be elected for the first time. Although we could write a book on that by itself, the election offers and interesting mix of polar diversity such the like I have never seen before.

Although the Mormon church aka The Church Of Jesus Christ Of The Latter Day Saints or simply the LDS Church has existed within America since 1823 when the supposed angel "Moroni" visited a 14 year old boy named Joseph Smith to tell him about a "record of ancient inhabitants of the America's which had been hidden in a nearby hill", the Mormon church has been delivering a version of testimony that it calls "another  Gospel of Jesus Christ" which claims to "restore" the true believer to a true faith and belief, as all other churches and beliefs, beginning with the Catholic Church and the Protestant reformations that followed, are  apostate and deceived.

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Athiest Smackdown Over The Historical Jesus

As I have outlined in my post, "The Raging Battle For The Jesus Of History" there is an ongoing fight over whether Jesus really existed or whether he was just a myth promoted by people who had some kind of utopian vision for their society. 

Dr. Bart Ehrman

One thing that I have found interesting is when nonbelievers disagree on the topic they approach one another with the same or similar vitriol in which nonbelievers attack Christians for their belief. Unfortunately for the "mythists" there are people on both sides who understand historical studies and have the ability to decipher historical facts. These people use the same arguments that Christians use to defend the historical person of Jesus. 

Recently, agnostic Bart Ehrman had to take one of his fellow non-believers, who calls himself "The Infidel Guy" (some guy named Reggie), to school on the historical Jesus. When The Infidel Guy mentioned that Paul may have lied about Jesus, and Dr. Ehrman asked "Why would he lie?" it seems that everything fell apart. Not only is there no good reason to believe that Paul lied, there is no historical reason to believe that Jesus did not exist and that Paul was not referring to him. 

What really hyped things up was that Ehrman suggested that the sources such as Robert Price, who has spent great time promoting that Jesus was a myth (made a lot of money too) is not credible at least in Dr. Ehrman's eyes. Although I find it hard to believe that Ehrman was unfamiliar with Price as he seemed to appear at least on radio, because he at least knew about his employment, stating that he was not a professor,  and at least one book he wrote. Ehrman also seems to discredit Dr. Hector Avalos as merely an Old Testament scholar, with the implication that he wouldn't offer any insights on the historical Jesus either. 

In short I guess if atheists want to know anything about the historical Jesus, they should consult Dr. Ehrman which seems to be a two edged sword that Erhman uses to cut whomever might get in his way. 

     

Pt. 1

 Pt. 2


Blessed!

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Is It Really Discrimination Savage? Then What Of Polygamy?

You know you've won a debate when the "moderator" joins the other side to present more false arguments than the opponent.

Brown: "What about the rights of people who wants to marry two, three to four people?"

Savage: (paraphrased) I don't want to answer that question

Savage said that IF same sex marriage slipped toward relationships that he found morally offensive, that he wouldn't advocate it. Well, open the door, because when there is no resistance to this sort of immorality becoming law, then everything is fair game and there will invariably be more morally offensive relationships.

Savage: "Marriage is the legal union between two adults...it should not be incestuous, polygamous either"

Brown: "Once you make marriage based on one's "desires", by what reason do you oppose it" (other relationship arrangements)

Mr. Savage by what rule and or reason should marriage be limited to two, adults, non-incestuous or the polygamists...We're still waiting for an answer. 

We are certainly in a culture war. Very good debate in my humble opinion.

Blessed!

Link:  National Organization For Marriage

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Islam, Submission With No Peace Pt. 8...Is "Muhammad" In The Bible?

The Islamic Apologists

The late Islamic scholar Ahmed Deedat (1918-2005) claimed extensively that Muhammad was mentioned in the bible and that the biblical translators had changed the meaning of the original word to hide this "fact". The reason that Deedat believed and taught this, was because the Quran was supposed to have said that Muhammad was mentioned in the law and in the gospels. 

Sura 7: 157 ~ "those who follow the messenger, the unlettered Prophet, whom they find mentioned in their own (scriptures),- in the law and the Gospel;- for he commands them what is just and forbids them what is evil; he allows them as lawful what is good (and pure) and prohibits them from what is bad (and impure); He releases them from their heavy burdens and from the yokes that are upon them. So it is those who believe in him, honour him, help him, and follow the light which is sent down with him,- it is they who will prosper."

So for Deedat and many other Islamic Apologists, there "must" be a connection to Muhammad, their prophet within the Holy scriptures associated with the Jews religion and with Christianity. This has been debated for years, so it is nothing new. 

In response to his 1986 debate with then Evangelist Jimmy Swaggart, Deedat claimed the following:

The Late Dr. Ahmed Deedat

"Initially when I started talking about the subject about what the Bible says about Muhammad, (pbhn), I didn't know, at the beginning and for a very long time, I didn't know, that the Holy Prophet Muhammad, (pbhn) was mentioned by name, in the bible.Mentioned by name." 

"What has happened is this, first that Muhammad (pbhn) is mentioned by name in the original scriptures. The Old Testament, according to Christian mythologies, was preserved in the Hebrew language. The New Testament, in Greek scriptures, in Greek language. In the Old Testament, the Song Of Solomon chapter 5, verse 16, in the Hebrew language....it says: "חכו ממתקים וכלו מחמדים זה דודי וזה רעי בנות ירושלם׃" The word "ma·ḥă·mad·dîm, (highlighted above) is the word  "Ma ha mad".."im"..."im" is a plural of respect in the Hebrew."   

Dr. Deedat went on to argue that all Eastern languages have a common feature of respect when it is implying a "proper name" or referring to someone of importance. Thus his textual proof that the "Prophet  Muhammad" is mentioned in the bible and that the biblical prophecy is centered around him.  

To the ardent faithful of Islam, this makes much sense. It further leads to great leaps of sentiments that Jesus prophesied about Muhammad as well by referring to him as "the comforter" (Jh, 14:16) Heritics such as Zakir Naik who hasn't fallen far from the Deedat tree, but seemingly landed on his head, promote this fallacy boldly proclaiming that Muhammad is the one who is to lead us and guide us into all truth! More on this fallacious and absurd argument later in the article.  

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Image, Assets & Liability Pt. 3...The "COGIC Shuffle"

"We now live in a litigious society. People file lawsuits for every conceivable grievance, whether real or imagined. To protect the name, image, and assets of the Church of God in Christ, we must take positive steps to seriously investigate very case of alleged sexual abuse by the clergy. We must stand behind and support those who are falsely accused of sexual improprieties and found innocent by the courts. We must also insure that the Church act quickly to take firm and positive action against those who violate the sanctity of their positions and are found guilty of sexual abuse and other sexual improprieties.” Bishop Charles Blake, Presiding Bishop Church Of God in Christ Inc. Oct 29, 2007

In PART 1 and PART 2 of this mini-series, I have looked at both secular and church sexual abuse and the fallout associated with it. By now, I hope that we can see that there is a devastating affect upon the complete and entire community when trust is betrayed in this manner. However, what happens when the church looks past sexual abuse and misuse, even when it is discovered years later, only to focus on image, assets and the way we "do things"?

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Image, Assets & Liability Pt. 2...The "Shuffling" Bishop

Toward the end of the song "Party Rock Anthem", by LMFAO (please don't ask what the acronym represents), there is a character which appears to be Jesus doing the dance called "shuffle". I am unsure if this was a subliminal message directed toward the church or not, but it is very clear that the representatives of Jesus through the corporate body called the modern "church" have been "shuffling" for quite some time. 

The unfortunate part is that it seems the church has been "shuffling" and protecting their worst, while exposing and leaving the innocent to danger and confusion. However, it would seem that that day, the day of irresponsibility, is over:

"Cover up child sex crimes and you'll go to jail. Not house arrest. Not community service. Not a fine. You'll be locked up. It says, loud and clear, that child sex crimes are taken extremely seriously, and will be punished as such," ~ Joelle Casteix, Western Regional the Survivors Network of those Abused by Priests Director CNN 6/24/2012

The Latest Example...Held LIABLE

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Image, Assets & Liability Pt. 1..."Silent Associations"

This is the first of a three part series in which I will briefly examine the fallout from covering child sexual abuse in both the secular and religious world. 

Recently, in the news, we have witnessed organizations and individuals held liable for the abuse and mistreatment of individuals. Let's look at the first of a few examples:

Penn State University

"We're going to hold off on making a crime log entry. At this point in time I can justify that decision because of the lack of clear evidence of a crime."  email from Penn State Police Chief Thomas Harmon to Penn State President Gary Schultz regarding a mother's report to campus officials that Jerry Sandusky had engaged in inappropriate sexual contact with her 11 year old son. 

At Penn State University, we are witnessing a whole collegiate system being held accountable for covering up, shuffling off and otherwise accommodating ONE convicted and confused child molester and rapist Jerry Sandusky. I'm quite sure that none of the individuals who were aware of Sandusky's actions would have ever thought that they would be held accountable for what he was doing. They didn't understand that their silence was similar to them taking part in the rape and abuse of children as well. 

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Keep Your Intolerance Out Of My Chicken!

Remember August 1st 2012

To the INTOLERANT Commu-Nazi Dictators of Boston & Chicago

We support our AMERICAN rights as American Citizens to eat at whatever restaurant we want even if the owners don't support your favorite sins. 

As Black folk, we ate at restaurants when we weren't allowed based on the color of our skin. Neither you nor your predecessors barred any of those "good ole boys" from making money and even expanding their business. 

Unlike you however, we support and encourage sound and biblically centered moral values, especially those which have brought society this far. 
So I guess Americans DO have a RIGHT to their own choices. I suppose it's called FREEDOM? Do you remember what that is?

Blessed!

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"Confessions" Of Juanita Bynum II, The Law Of Attraction & Devaluing God

On Juanita Bynum's "Inspirational Vitamin, The Power Of Purpose" on V 103 Radio of Atl. she made the startling confession that she has done it all including lesbianism.

Juanita II at V 103

“I’ve been there and I’ve done it all, I’ve [done] the drugs. I’ve been with men. I’ve been with women.” “It’s not a line, it’s my life!”...“That abuse that I suffered was because I attracted after my own kind. That abuse was already sitting in me.”

Now some are up in arms because Juanita so readily and easily admitted that she experimented with lesbianism throughout what she calls her many "conversions". Yes, this is strange and should be alarming. but the truth is that every "sinner" doesn't sin the same and we all know that Juanita has long had a mental challenge that was made worse when her marriage to Bishop Thomas Weeks II was destroyed. 

There is no way that anyone could think that this lady was thinking with a full deck when she changed her name and showed up to her birthday celebration in her wedding gown and with a sword in hand...FYI: Juanita was far gone at that point and all most of her fans wanted to know was when she was going to next preach so that  they could receive some type of prophecy or to help make a conference budget if they were the sponsor. Y'u-know, they wanted to know when Juanita was going to be able to help make one of those $300,000 to $500,000 offering nights. Plain and simple Juanita was and still is a "cash cau" in many places and in many circumstances. 

The Blame Game

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Is "Pagan Christianity" A Distortion Of Truth?

In 2002 authors Frank Viola, and George Barna, undertook to deliver a work called "Pagan Christianity, Exploring The Roots Of Our Church Practices" in which the claim was made that after reading the book one would have "Tough questions. Nagging questions. Even frightening questions." and that what we would be left with would be "disturbing answers" that would lead us to "the richest truths that Christians can discover" (1)

While I can say that they were certainly correct, because after reading just a portion of the book, I am left with some tough questions, nagging questions and even some frightening questions, but not necessarily for reasons that either of them thought or intended that anyone would be left with such questions. 

Needless to say I am frightened at the completely overstated assumptions, special pleading, genetic fallacy and straw men arguments that Frank and George have delivered in order to critique and , in Frank's own words, "deconstruct" the modern church. While he does deliver a great deal of information, his assumptions are flawed and rooted heavily in genetic fallacy. All of this has led us to not only ask the tough questions of ...what the heck were they thinking???.... and the nagging question of,  "why would someone who does not honor or acknowledge the system of the church seek to profit from it, all at the same time trying to destroy it?"...But we ask other frightening questions such as why would authors interlace and mix so much error with truth if the whole point was to help reform the church? Similar to many groups that seek to undermine Christianity, Frank and George are ultimately making the case that post 1st century, Christianity has merely borrowed it's practices from Paganism and is not centered in truth. What is further puzzling is that they make these assertions as opposed to looking further to see the Jewish roots of many modern Christian beliefs and practices. 

A Brief Example:

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CFR Exposed On Word His Way

Listen to internet radio with HisWordHisWay on Blog Talk Radio

Pastor Harvey Burnett will be one in a panel of featured guests on the Word His Way Blogtalk Radio broadcast, hosted by Pastor Saiko Woods on Thursday July 19th 7:30 PM CST.  Click the Blogtalk Radio link above to hear the program right now...

The show will be open to guests and callers, and Dunamis readers are welcomed and encouraged to attend. The call in number is 858.365.5507.

Sounding The Alarm!

The topic is "Churchfolkradio Exposed Pt. 2 ~ The Saga Continues". The discussion will be a followup to a previous  conversation regarding an internet group called Church Folk Revolution, which among other things, in recent days, promoted sex outside of marriage as a viable behavior for believing Christians. 

In fact, speaking in the context of sexual purity, in a broadcast entitled, "Saved, Single, And Having Sex" 6/4/2012, one of their primary and most vocal teachers claimed that God spoke to him saying, 

"You can't pray away what you're supposed to hump away"

This is simply the tip of the iceberg. Pt. 1 of this conversation was conducted by Pastor Tetaun Moffett of Exministries on The Moment Of Truth Internet broadcast. I will post a link to a portion of that conversation when one is available.

Blessed!   

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