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Monday, November 25, 2013

Special Upcoming Radio Appearances


There are 2 upcoming radio events that Dunamis Word readers are invited to be a part of. 

1- On Saturday November 30th, 2013 at 11:00 AM (CST) Pastor Harvey Burnett will be one of the special guests discussing "Christianity Today: The True "Reality"" on AM 1140 WVEL Peoria, IL. This program can be heard on an analog signal in Central Illinois and on a live internet stream by clicking HERE and further clicking the "Listen Live" tab.

Jittaun Wilson-Woods
WVEL
In what promises to be a lively, and fast paced hour, topics will include the church's relationship and response to crime and violence within the community, the expected challenges due to the recent passage of homosexual marriage in the State of Illinois and other topics such as the secularization of the church through entertainment. 


The host is radio DJay, Jittaun Wilson-Woods who is a long time WVEL and local radio personality. Please call in with your questions or comments during the live airing at (888)673-1011. Readers of the Dunamis word, please say so. 



2- On Monday December 2nd, 2013 at 8:00 AM (CST) Pastor Harvey Burnett will be a special guest of Star Parker's CURE America Radio Program which airs on Urban Family Talk Radio, a division of American Family Radio Network. This program broadcasts on over some 300 stations throughout the United States and is also live streamed. One can hear the live stream by clicking HERE and further clicking the "Listen Live" tab. 

CURE (Center For Urban Renewal And Education) is dedicated to delivering a message of hope and renewal to the Black community which has been devastated by misinformation, inept social and political policy and inaction of the church. Through its national network of thousands of pastors and churches, CURE seeks to bring wholeness and healing to the community by delivering solutions to the problems facing Black America and the Black family in particularly.  

If you aren't able to tune into the live program, don't worry, the program will be rebroadcast at 3 PM and 11 PM (CST) on the same station and will be available at the same links.  The host for this program is CURE Director of Outreach and Education Mr. Lonnie Poindexter who is also an experienced radio and outreach personality.

Once again, phone lines will be open. Questions and comments are welcomed during the live airing of the broadcast. Please call (866)963-2037.  In addition, please state that you are a reader of The Dunamis Word.

Blessed! 

Update: 

Click Here for the link to the Cure America Broadcast from Dec. 2nd. 2013.     

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Sunday, November 17, 2013

Fornication & Pre-Marital Sexual Activity. The Bible IS Clear

1 Cor. 5:9-11 ~ 9- I wrote unto you in an epistle not to company with fornicators: 10-Yet not altogether with the fornicators of this world, or with the covetous, or extortioners, or with idolaters; for then must ye needs go out of the world. 11-But now I have written unto you not to keep company, if any man that is called a brother be a fornicator, or covetous, or an idolater, or a railer, or a drunkard, or an extortioner; with such an one no not to eat.

The TV show, Preachers Of LA has given rise to many conversations among believers. The show has also detailed conversations that many believers have been having for quite some time. One such conversation centers around the relationship and eventual marriage of Deitrick Haddon to his current and new wife, Dominique (Mctyer), with whom, according to THIS ARTICLE, Deitrick had a baby before he was divorced from  his first wife Damita. In fact Deitrick and Dominique had a baby in early 2012. (So his relationship and infidelity with Dominique began as early as 2011) His divorce was said to have been finalized in August/Sept. 2012. Deitrick then went on to marry his current wife, in July 2013, preceded first in what appeared to be a fake wedding ceremony (with a string for a ring) carried out on Preachers Of LA and then in an official ceremony sometime in July 2013. 

It was plain to see that Deitrick, according to his own confession, not only fell off the wagon, (ie: Backslid, as we call it in Christian circles) so far as his salvation was concerned, but was also was an adulterer and a fornicator according to the biblical definition of the words.

Reinterpretation Of The WORD

One scene that caught my attention was when Bishop Ron Gibson was speaking to Derick and Dominique about marriage and living together, or what we often call in the Black community, "Shackin' Up". Interestingly enough Deitrick's claim was that "Shackin' up" wasn't in the bible. In fact Dominique would go on to claim that they (Deitrick and she) were "already married in God's eyes" because they had already had sex.


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Friday, November 15, 2013

In The Matrix With Stephen Hawking

The one thing that we are sure of is if people want to make up excuses to not believe in God, they will go to the limits of craziness and strange assertions and "pretend" that they are being rational. One of the modern atheist "heroes" is no different. Here is a part of Frank Turek's examination of Stephen Hawking's book, "The Grand Design" and the philosophical metaphysical naturalist conclusions and presuppositions that he makes. 

If you liked that you may also like these articles I did on the philosophy of science and other modern novel speculations as it pertains to science.

Blessed!




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Monday, November 11, 2013

"SAINTS", Not Merely "Christians"

Thankfully, I have been blessed by God to have known and served under some of the greatest leaders in the Church Of God In Christ. Long ago I would hear the late Bishop Dr. T.T. Rose formerly of Illinois Central Jurisdiction COGIC say, 

The Late Bishop Dr. T.T.  Rose
Springfield, IL. 
"I would rather be called a Saint any day than a 'Christian'." when I asked why? He would respond by saying "Saints, live right. They are the one's that God has called. You are subject to find a Christian doing anything...I don't want to be called a Christian, I want to be called a Saint!"

On Thursday night 11/7/2013 at the 106th Annual Holy Convocation of the Church Of God In Christ, Bishop Darrell Hines (see teaser video below) picked up on that same sentiment and theme and began to explain what Dr. Rose knew and was convinced of some nearly 70 years ago and I thought I should repeat this for all those younger individuals who don't know or have not been taught why we call one another "SAINTS" in COGIC as opposed to calling one another fellow "Christians" as is commonly done in many if not most Christian churches.

Slight Western History

In 1897 when the Church Of God In Christ was first formed, through its first reorganization in 1907 when it became a Spirit Filled and Pentecostal church, the believers that followed the teachings of Bishop C. H. Mason, were quick to call themselves Saints. 


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Friday, November 8, 2013

Illinois Approves Gay Marriage By False Parallel Of Race

Job 12:25 ~ They grope in the dark without light, and he maketh them to stagger like a drunken man.

Rep. Mary Flowers (D) 
"I really did not appreciate race being injected into this conversation. When I was discriminated against, it was not because of who I love, but because of the color of my skin.”...“Homosexuality has nothing to do with race,” ~ Rep. Mary Flowers (D) Chicago
The Illinois Legislature, making news for all the wrong reasons, decided in a 61-54 vote late Tuesday night to affirm gay marriage in spite of strong and vocal support against the measure by both Republican, Democrat and politically Independent citizens of the state. 

In what was building as a fight since a late last year's rejection of the measure, in what has become known as "President Obama's State", House Speaker Mike Madigan (D) along with other supporters were able to convince legislators to approve the measure by means of what he deemed as the "art of persuasion"  That "persuasion" included doing what gay marriage advocacy adherents do best, create a totally FALSE argument to promote their agenda and shame into submission all those who disagree. 

Such tactics were clearly seen as more and more representatives were convinced to relate the struggle for homosexual marriage to the struggle for civil rights. To highlight the utter confusion as it pertains to this issue, in my own back yard, Representative, Jehan Gordon-Booth (D) in The Peoria Journal Star News Opinion article entitled "Equality Under The Law Is The American Way" stated:
Rep. Jehan Gordon-Booth (D)
"My thinking on this matter has been deeply influenced by the heroes of the civil rights movement. Congressman John Lewis of Georgia is the former chairman of the Student nonviolent Coordinating Committee. a Freedom Rider who had his skull fractured on the march across Selma's Edmund Pettus Bridge, and a man of strong faith who graduated from the American Baptist Theological Seminary. He supports marriage equality."..."Obama wrestled very publicly with his views on the issue, ultimately realizing that his Christian faith is fully compatible with his endorsement of equal marriage rights." ~ Rep. Jehan Gordon-Booth (D)11/5/2013 Peoria Journal Star
To which I simply say, what does any of that have to do with the price of tea in China? This sort of sentiment is not uncommon among politicians and Mrs. Gordon-Booth is certainly not the progenitor of such thinking, but it must be noted that there has never been a more inept, invalid and totally false correlation and relationship to facts and the struggle for human rights than the correlation of the fight for sexual preference to the fight of basic human dignity.

Utter Presidential Liberality & Confusion

First, President Barack Obama espouses ultra liberal Christian views and values. He doesn't believe in the inspiration or infallibility of the scriptures and believes some scriptures are valid while others are not based on his own guidance. Therefore to base one's decision on how he has come to reconcile "faith" with homosexuality is very shaky ground upon which to build  especially considering such a very important issue.


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Saturday, November 2, 2013

The COGIC 106th Annual Holy Convocation...A Time For Reconciliation!

Theme 1: Discovering The Power Presence And Person Of Jesus Christ

Theme 2: Experiencing The Power Of Jesus Christ, Pursuing His Mission & His Righteousness

Although I really can't say that I know exactly what theme that the 106th annual Holy Convocation of the Church Of God In Christ will be, (click HERE and read the banners for yourself) either theme sparks much fruitful and spiritual contemplation and is painted on a ripe canvass of both victory, mystery and even further controversy.  

The 2013 Holy Convocation promises to be another in which COGIC will have the opportunity to address many issues and hopefully take the opportunity to set the pace as it pertains to standards of safety and integrity within the modern Christian church. However, they are starting from a deficit. There are some serious problems that must be dealt with including lawsuits, abuse, and unresolved ongoing personal conflicts and issues. 

COGIC Victim's Advocacy...The Need STILL Exists


The wonderful part is that COGIC now requires background checks for all new clergy coming into the organization and a thorough and extensive training program for all clergy licensees. In addition, we have received certain information that there is a counseling plan or program that exists, whether officially or not, for victims of sexual abuse in some areas of the country. That's the GOOD NEWS! 

The BAD NEWS is that sexual abuse within the church continues to occur and that COGIC has failed to implement a true Victim's Advocacy program and plan that will effectively minister to the needs of victims and their families. There is yet no clear "bill of rights" or path to recovery plan as we have proposed and recommended within the IMBKCAC plan. There is yet no organizational system of accountability on the issue of abuse in all forms. A solid advocacy plan, will meet the needs of both victims, the public, and the church insuring that COGIC is a safe and family friendly place of worship which embraces safe practices that not only prevent sexual abuse from occurring, but also affords victims the very best care, compassion and concern as they place their lives and families back together. An solid victim's advocacy plan is of essential importance if the goal and aim of the church is to be relevant within the community in which it exists and all around the world.


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Friday, November 1, 2013

Arsenio Hall..."LA Preach Off"...Should We Rejoice Over This?

Phil 1:15-18 ~ 15-Some indeed preach Christ even of envy and strife; and some also of good will: 16-The one preach Christ of contention, not sincerely, supposing to add affliction to my bonds: 17-But the other of love, knowing that I am set for the defence of the gospel. 18-What then? notwithstanding, every way, whether in pretence, or in truth, Christ is preached; and I therein do rejoice, yea, and will rejoice.




I'd like to hear some input on this one. 

Blessed!

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Thursday, October 31, 2013

Presidential "OVERSELL" or Presidential LIE?

Need Insurance & Financial Solutions or help navigating or securing insurance under the ACA? 
See Dunamis Insurance Services. Click HERE

At a 2009 Presidential address to a joint session of congress, Senator Joe Wilson yelled out twice, "YOU LIE" stopping the President in mid speech and invoking the condemnation of other congressional leaders for showing "disrespect" for the President. 

At the time, the President was assuring the nation that Illegal immigrants would not have coverage under the Affordable Care Act (ACA aka: Obama Care), which, at the time, hadn't really been worked out of the proposal. Later modifications to the law would make it seem as if the President was fully forthcoming with information and as "transparent" as he had promised during his 2008 Presidential election.

The "OVERSELL" (aka: LIE)

Now that the ACA is law and folk are receiving cancellations and non-renewal notices for their current coverage, there is a new "YOU LIE!" on the scene. Since this "transparent" Presidency has realized the glaring flaw, it has reworked the language to avoid being called a LIAR simply stating that it "OVERSOLD" certain aspects of the ACA in order to make things better for the millions of uninsured Americans...In other words, the losses of the few million individuals, who would have to not only change coverage and doctors, paled in comparison to the millions of individuals and families who would benefit by the new regulated and mandated coverage.


OBAMA WORSHIP

Now, the current retort to all of this is OBAMA WORSHIP. It seems that for many, President Obama is right no matter what he said, did or got caught saying or doing. Why, according to current thinking, wasn't Bush responsible for getting America into an "unjust war" when "he knew" all along that WMD (Weapons Of Mass Destruction) didn't exist? So the story is that President Obama's "OVERSELL" or LIE as I call it, can be best understood through the lens of politics and necessity...This is a utilitarianism style of moral value which caters to a doctrine called "the greater good"


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Wednesday, October 23, 2013

Abuse...Could This Be Happening At Your Church?

There is no one that I know that likes to think that there church is not a safe place for all, Saint and sinner alike. However, the real fact is that church could be one of the most dangerous places for abuse in part because people become so relaxed around and with people whom they "think" they know. 

Fact: 80 to 90% of sex offenders assault people that they already know

This "comfortablity" with persons and personalities could lead to or facilitate abuse under the wrong and unmonitored circumstances as we will point out in this article. 

Abuse, In Most Cases, Is Not A Matter Of Doctrine

Before one goes on to hail their belief system (denomination or theological system) as something that exempts or insulates their church or organization from SIN and misdeeds of men and women, please keep in mind that abuse is not a denominational nor doctrinal issue. From Catholic to Protestant belief systems, one can preach, teach and believe what one wishes, and unfortunately abuse occurs. 
Three companies that insure the majority of Protestant churches in America say they typically receive upward of 260 reports each year of young people under 18 being sexually abused by clergy, church staff, volunteers or congregation members." ~ Insurance Journal 6/2007
It is important to realize that church related abuse, which can be in any form, is a pervasive and sometimes systemic issue that begins in close quarters, security and what should otherwise be sacred relationships, only to end up in frustration, turmoil and sacrilege with an ultimate result of creating distance between men and one another as well as between men and God. 

Identifying The Roots & Preventing Potential Abuse


Although abuse can occur at any time, it is good to examine the circumstances associated with abuse as to avoid those circumstances and break up any potential root under which abuse and abusive behavior may grow. I Am My Brother's Keeper Christian Advocacy Council (IMBKCAC.org) a group that helps individual churches and organizations establish victims advocacy programs, has responded by recommending certain strategies that help both identify and prevent patterns of abuse.

In the remainder of this writing, I will point out some of the more consistent trends and sentiments and situation that often leads to or signals potential abuse and abusive behavior and how an individual and church can avoid situations such as these. 

1- "Why Weren't You At Church?"

While this question seems innocuous and innocent, it could be the very question that begins a psychological manipulation and opens the door to abuse. Yes, if you attend church regularly, you certainly will be missed. most of you have even been asked this question from time to time I am sure especially if you have a particular duty at church. In that case at least this question is more than likely in order. However, as we have found through repeated discussion with many who have been abused, this question takes on a different form when it is posed from a person in position of power and authority to a person of who has no other duties at the church other than being in attendance. This is usually where questioning along this line could be problematic. 

While the question in and of itself may not be bad, the frequency or intensity at which this question can be posed should be the alarming part. If a person, no matter who they are, consistently wants the same individual or individuals to account for there whereabouts, this could be a sign of a potential problem.One should ask, what makes me so "important" or "necessary" that this particular person would single out me or my record of attendance? How did or do I catch the notice of the individual?

This type of personal and individual "monitoring" is not good for the health of the individual or the church in general and leads to subjugation of the mind and personality. In addition, while it is good to be missed, it is not a good thing when one is singled out or spoken to in private or sternly to determine one's "reasons" for not being in attendance. 

While being asked why you weren't at church is not something to be automatically alarmed about without provocation and on a general basis, it is something to watch and to keep track of especially if it is a consistent situation or if a particular person is calling a particular person or persons into account through this method. A simple "we missed you" would be a much better approach if the sentiment is purely regarding a person's missed attendance.   

2- Statement: "You Are A Single Woman, And Man is The Head. It's Your Job To Obey"

Surprising to many, this is probably one of our most discussed type of situations that we hear. A single woman, with or without children, attending a church and a "man" feels that she has a "duty" to be accountable to him or them because he or they are men. This type of misinterpretation seems to stem from the erroneous interpretation of 1 Cor. 11:3 which says:
"But I would have you know, that the head of every man is Christ; and the head of the woman is the man; and the head of Christ is God."
As stated an erroneous interpretation of this verse is that a woman, because she is a woman and single, is supposed to automatically "obey" and "honor" everything that "a man" tells her especially when that man is her "spiritual leader". In some cases, men will talk down to a woman, especially a single woman and think nothing of it and condemn her for speaking up for herself claiming that she is out of order. Further, and more so importantly, in some cases there is a belief that a woman, should "be in subjection to her "leader" simply because she "should" and because he tells her so. If one thinks education and credentials make the difference here, you would be wrong. Folk that do this do this regardless of the education level of the women that they speak to and in many cases the women or "subject" bows down thinking that they are being humble.  

This whole situation is based on a FALSE interpretation of the word of God. A woman is not simply subject to a man because she is a woman. As stated this stems from a false belief that the bible extends some kind of open patriarchalism into modern society. Similar to a requirement under Muslim Sharia Law, adherents to this and women that complain are told that the woman is always in a "lesser" position and role as it pertains to a man. This type of teaching can be dangerous, and in many contexts just what we see to a degree rehearsed in all too many churches.

In cases such as this, it would be advisable to request that the spouse or other responsible, alternate sex church leader be present for and during all conversations where certain instructions or requirements are given. In addition, it would also be advisable to address this concern with specificity demanding that counseling and advice be given strictly on biblical basis as opposed to a basis that requires subjective opinions.

If none of that does the trick...it's time to seek another church for your continued spiritual growth and development.     

3- Statement: "You Need To Let Me Know Where You Are And What Your Are Doing." 

I have spoken to and received calls from many women who claim that this type of sentiment was rehearsed to them prior to abuse. The person in authority, usually the pastor or some other ministerial leader, would suggest that the woman and in some cases the man, clear their actions with them first or at the very least make a report to them for their "benefit", "blessing" or "security". If this reporting does not occur, there will be some sort of indirect or even direct counseling sessions or at the very least stern words and in some cases a demand for an apology. This would be usually followed by some way to make amends in which case small demands may lead to larger, more inappropriate demands over time.
As we can observe, this is another way to modify behavior and in some cases ultimately manipulate the mind by creating shame, guilt, and second thoughts over situations and personal decisions. In addition, these type of sentiments can lead to physical abuse. Sentiments such as these are ungodly and are not a biblically ordained manner in which one should deal with anyone in the church. Yet we find some that continue to experience this type of response from authorities within the church. Unfortunately, some have become so accustomed to this sort of reasoning that they think it is normal and make no complaints until it is too late.

Only allow individuals to whom you are directly accountable to know your actions at all times. A spiritual leader need not know detailed information about you or your whereabouts at all times. Volunteering such blurs the lines of demarcation and facilitates an inappropriate situation. 

4- "You Don't Know Enough" or "You Don't Know What You Are Talking About" 

These practices extend further into biblical discussion and debates over doctrines and practices. 

A lady once shared with us that in a biblical discussion in an open group at church that everything she said was glaringly focused upon, and if not opposed, "clarified" by a particular pastoral leader. This was followed by an offer to her to extend to her a special study so that "she could learn" to communicate what she was talking about a little more effectively and comprehensively. This is ungodly and reeks with all kinds of potential abuse!

Still, yet in another situation, a woman was told that she had no say in church business simply because of her gender. No mention of what she was qualified to do, but in all things she had to be in "subjection" to the man because that was said to be in "biblical order"; or at least so she was told. 

Although sentiments along gender lines are more in line with the article I have done called "Sexism In The Christian Church Pt. 2" this type of action could rather easily open the door to mental, emotional and even sexual abuse and should be condemned strongly as an acceptable behavior and interaction among believers within the Christian church. Failure to engage this type of open classism and abusive posturing could lead many down a path of destruction that at least, on the surface, has an appearance of biblical order, but is actually contrary to biblical, and especially New Testament, teaching and modes of operation. 

5- Ministry & Auxiliary Leaders...Double Up And Change Them Consistently
GuideOne Insurance Co. (West Des Moines, IA) reported around “160 reports of sex abuse against minors every year for two decades.”​
Contrary to popular belief, pastors are not the primary individual bringing abuse into the fold.  As noted above, the SIN of abuse is also conducted by volunteers in ministry or persons associated with the ministry. Two methods recommended by professionals that can be implemented to help avoid and prevent potential abuse of children in the ministry is to: 

1- Double up responsibilities through dual oversight and
2- Consistently and routinely change leaders. 

There should always be two ministry leaders for every ministry group and the gender of the ministry leaders should not be the same. In addition, ministry leaders should be ready to hold one another accountable for actions and interactions, especially with children. There should be no unaccounted for time alone with children one on one. All interactions should be wholly and totally above board. 

Further, even if one person is the primary individual to interact with youth, another person should serve both as a monitor and a person with whom contact regarding any situation can be made without fear of reprisal. Children are reluctant to report abuse, therefore the door should be opened to report inappropriate behavior without fear. A plan should be set in place. Parents or guardians should be included in this plan and receive notification of all those who will have contact with their child or children.

Regular changes should be made in ministry teachers and leaders as well. I know most of us had the same Sunday School teacher for years and we grew up. Many of us have thoughts and blessings of the knowledge and care of what those teachers brought into our lives. However, THIS is a different day.  

First, changing ministry leaders enhances the church by giving more individuals an opportunity to expand their gifts and talents. Consistently having the same youth leader, teacher, or director can desensitize both the teacher and child to inappropriate behavior and situations where actions may be unmonitored due to being "comfortable" with the association. This is DANGEROUS and should be avoided. In many instances, a handshake has led to a hug, has led to a grope, has led to other ungodly and inappropriate behaviors and actions. 

In reality, some churches are not able to routinely change ministry leaders because of the size of the church. In those cases, routines should be changed and modified and individuals should be made to deliver definitive schedules to their leaders as to avoid the appearance of evil and to make themselves accountable to those who oversee them. An ounce of prevention is more than worth a pound of cure in this area. 

6- Do Not Allow Children To "Find Their Own Path" In Dealing With Others Children
For the period 2003-2008 criminal prosecutors reported a nearly 300% increase in reports of "peer-to-peer" abuse.
Abuse from child to child is also known as "peer to peer" abuse. Children are not and should not be self monitors. Some children and even some adults are unable to make value based decisions that facilitate the best possible outcome. I believe that singer Kirk Franklin once stated that he was introduced to drugs in a church parking lot by way of someone else in church. Children abusing children and introducing others to abuse or abusive situations is nothing to take lightly and is a very serious issue within the context of the church.

One should never leave children to themselves especially in a closed environment. Responsible adults should always be on hand to oversee and account for actions and activities and to assure the best possible outcome. 

7- An Adult Needs One On One Time With A Particular Youth Or A Group Of Youths

Once again, this situation should be examined especially when there is a repeated need to be alone with a child or children. Alone time with a non-family member adult (and in some cases family member) could signal danger. In times where things like this are necessary, doors should very seldom, if ever, be closed, and parents, spouses and other accountable individuals should be notified 100% of the time and time constraints should be kept at all costs. In other words, if a meeting is to last for half an hour, it should continue to be half an hour, NOT an hour and a half without strict notification and an exact accounting of the reason why the meeting must last longer. In addition, and at all costs, unrelated third parties should be present to insure personal accountability and provide accounting if accusations should arise.

In a particular case an adult desired to have a sleep-over with a group of church youth. The topic of discussion was preadolescent sexual activity. Questions primarily centered around what, if any, sexual activity that the youths had already engaged in in some type of effort to "minister" to them of how to avoid sexual activity. Both the setting and the topic however was totally inappropriate and did not facilitate the health of the church or the youth. 

Adults should never have sleep-overs with children at any time and study material content should be supervised and approved by both male and female spiritual leaders to assure that no inappropriate matters will be discussed in a closed setting. Gone are the days of simply reading and teaching from a booklet. Many booklets are written with a particular slant and some folk writing them are not necessarily saved.

Conclusion

Hopefully these things will help you identify certain behaviors and help implement a plan or preventive measures against abuse of all kinds within the context of the church. Things such as these are measures that lead to good spiritual health of the church. To implements steps and safeguards is not a sign of weakness, it is a sign of strength. Only the strong will stand to assure that their environment will be a safe one.

In this journey we are stewards of Christ and in all things we give HIM glory by our stewardship. Practices such as these distinguish a ministry and foster good stewardship and accountability. They also tell families that the ministry is serious about the development and safety of the individual and family.

In the days of fast and "feel good" church, there is also fast and "feel good" SIN. For the abuser, the SIN of abuse feels good for a season but ends in severity of frustration and futility.

Thankfully, Jesus is STILL the answer to sin in all forms. He has come that we may have life and have it more abundantly. Safeguarding the church and its members from abuse and creating a safe environment for all people is what we should be doing without question. That is MINISTRY!

If you or someone you know is suffering from abuse and inappropriate behavior of individuals within the context of the church or church related setting, call IMBKCAC at (800)827-7279 or email us at Imbkcac@gmail.com for help or direction in dealing with your situation. All inquiries are free and confidential.  

Blessed!         

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Tuesday, October 15, 2013

Preachers of LA, A Jakes Condemnation & A Why?

It seems that Bishop Jakes, like many of us, got good, sick and tired of the mess that aired claiming to be "Preachers" of LA". On Sunday Oct. 13 Jakes said this among other things:

“So let the work I’ve done speak for me. You are sowing into good ground. And the 300 families that are employed in this ministry eat from this ministry, work in this ministry, and help us to produce the excellence that we do," he explained. "The natives all over Kenya drink water because of this ministry. And the hospital in Nairobi survives because of this ministry.” ~ Bishop TD Jakes  
The complete EEW interview can be found HERE.
The first episode of the show, displayed preachers trying to explain their failures, their excesses, their misuse of personal freedoms and liberties and most of all the reason why they feel that can and should materially "have it all" at the expense of their churches and those that follow them.  

Servant Of All

Mark 10:43-45 ~ 43-But so shall it not be among you: but whosoever will be great among you, shall be your minister: 44-And whosoever of you will be the chiefest, shall be servant of all. 45-For even the Son of man came not to be ministered unto, but to minister, and to give his life a ransom for many.

Not so say the Preachers of LA. It is the congregations job and the community of faith's job to "serve" the needs of their leader.

Now, before one goes too far. It is in biblical order to minister to the needs of the those whom god has set in leadership and who's job it is to tend to the flock of God. Paul says as much in Galations 6:6

Let him that is taught in the word communicate unto him that teacheth in all good things.

The word "communicate" ( Gk: κοινωνέω) Which according to Thayer means: 
*to come into communion or fellowship, to become a sharer, be made a partner: as in Greek writings with the genitive of the thing, and *to enter into fellowship, join oneself as an associate, make oneself a sharer or partner: as in Greek writings, with the dative of the thing, *to make another's necessities one's own as to relieve them
This word and verse deals with monetary and financial issues as well as other things. So there is biblical precedent for sharing of the needs from the congregation to their teacher(s) or leader(s), however does this in any way symbolize or translate into a lifestyle of opulence for the one being "communicated" to? 


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Monday, October 7, 2013

Are You A Professional Educator? Dream Builders Is Breaking Through In Education

As my regular readers may have noticed, I have been away for the desk for some time due to a number of life changes. One thing is for sure, God is in control, as he must because I KNOW I am not. (Thank God for that!!!) In the process I have been working on quite a few projects that the Lord has given me and am moving forthrightly to complete them. 

2 such projects center around the development of I Am My Brother's Keeper Christian Advocacy Council (IMBKCAC), and Dream Builders Reclaiming Our Youth.

IMBKCAC is making much progress in the field of victim's advocacy for those individuals who have suffered as a result of the sins of clergy and other church personnel. This year IMBKCAC has managed to advance within the realm of the Church Of God In Christ and is an idea and innovation that cannot be overlooked IF the aim is serving God by meeting the needs of the members of the church. Much more will be said on IMBKCAC, it's mission and what we are doing at a later date. 

Reclaiming Our Youth

"He alone, who owns the youth, gains the future." ~Adolph Hitler

Believe me, I am NOT an admirer of Adolph Hitler in any way. The lowest part of hell, which he will occupy is just the place for him without a doubt or question, but one thing he was intent to focus on was the "mind" and future potential of the youth. Even devils know where to concentrate their efforts in order to change society. 

In our society we see negative influences all around us everyday. These influences seek to make our youth something that is unrecognizable, different, and with a different set of moral values than we were once familiar with as a society.  The truth is that unless we make a stand, our futures and their futures and society as a whole will be hindered greatly. 

Dream Builders is a seminar, project and a plan that is positioned at the right place at the right time in uncovering and addressing the needs of educators and parents as they seek to educate and reach our youth by way of the educational process. Built to uncover common themes which hinder the process of teaching, learning and harmony within our public and private school settings, Dream Builders just may be what every school district needs in order to gain information about the current battle for the minds of our youth and how to win the war for their futures, dreams and hopes. 


Common Core Demands A Solution

With the development of the Common Core Curriculum, educators are finding that their jobs are more closely tied to classroom performance and standardized testing now more than ever before. Because of this emerging reality, educators must be equipped with the best and most powerful information and must find a way to bridge the gap in communicating with their students. In addition, teachers and professional administrators, must be encouraged to update teaching methods and styles and create a true team approach toward the educational process.

From parental involvement, parent university, to simply stronger and more active PTA's all options are on the table as it pertains to 21st Century education in most school districts all around the country. Yet, there is still much help needed in order to make any school day a day of education rather than a day of discipline and disruption. 

Violence In The Classroom

At the same time, there is an observable rise in violence, violent behavior, truancy, and many other problems that hamper the successful education of children within our communities. The violence, in its worst form, facilitates the appearance of gunmen in and around the schools who go on shooting rampages destroying countless lives and instilling fear in young impressionable hearts and minds. Might there be greater underlying factors to this intensity of violence? From a spiritual perspective, certainly, but what is being contributed in mainstream society that is facilitating if not initiating this pain? 

A Complete Societal Problem

An uneducated or under-educated youth and community hinders the potential progress, growth and productivity of society. For every one unprepared for life, or caught up in the wrong activities, there is a greater burden placed upon all of us who must make up the gap through either higher taxation or increased demands. 

Although many individuals have a hard time understanding the need for test scores, because some children just don't test well, what most individuals don't know is that the expansion of so called "correctional facilities" such as prisons and jails is correlated to 4th grade standardized test scores in reading. That's right...READING test scores

If children are not receiving what they need for their futures at an early age, they may be destined to suffer personally or contribute to the suffering of others by lack of productivity, crime and in many other undesirable ways. The fight for our youth has never been so important. 

A Solid Solution 

Dream Builders is a solid solution to understanding the attitudes and pattern of thinking that, many times, occupies the desks, a seat on the yellow bus, and classrooms all around the country.

In the Dream Builders program I take my experience of over 13 years of a parent and parent advocate combined along with my nearly 30 years experience as a minister along with my 15 years as a community advocate to present a program that our teachers and administrators vitally and so desperately need as they seek to advance our students lives and help rebuild dreams. 

Dream Builders:
  • Uncovers the anarchist message that has bombarded inner city youth and hindered the education process through the implementation of negative stereotypes. 
  • Opens the door to overcoming negative messages and stereotypes
  • Equips teachers and education professionals with tools on how to address the most intense issues that our youth are facing today.
  • Teaches us how to embrace differences and use them as strengths in solving the classroom problem and piecing together the classroom puzzle.
  • Engages the current and relevant issues that our youth and families are facing.
  • Is the most affordable and most dynamic and shocking information that many teachers and education professionals have ever witnessed in such a comprehensive and forthright manner
What You Can Do...

If you are in the education field, a teacher, administrator such as a Principal, Superintendent or Chancellor of a School District, or a Parent that would like to help bring new, diverse and powerful information to your PTA group or school, I would like to introduce you to Dream Builders because I believe that this program, along with others I have designed, will revolutionize your approach to the complete education process and connect both student and teacher as true education partners in a way that has not been previously witnessed.


Already, teachers and professional educators are talking about all that they were not aware of among the students that they see everyday and have uncovered and discovered some hidden messages in plain sight to help them better reach their students. Dream Builders information causes those involved in educating our youth to more effectively do what they do best...develop solutions...Many of those solutions would have normally went without regard under former circumstances. Neither your child, nor their teacher can go without Dream Builders any longer. 

Unconventional problems and situations justify unconventional methods and means in dealing with them. 

Email me at Dunamis1@netzero.com to see how you or your school can participate in Dream Builders and change and revive your educational and youth community. 

Together, and with the help of the Lord, we can Rebuild the Dream!   

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Wednesday, October 2, 2013

Was Bishop Larry Shaw Defamed?

Everything's going down BUT the WORD OF GOD! (or at least so it has been said)

Setting forth the charge of making known false statements with reckless disregard, Bishop Larry Shaw of First Southern Georgia Jurisdiction COGIC and also Secretary of the Board Of Bishops has been forced to sue both the Chairman of the Board of Bishops, Bishop John H Sheard of Michigan SouthWest First Jurisdiction COGIC, and blogger, Elder and "chauffeur for hire" (according to the suit) William G. McCray of the Obnoxious blog on charges of defamation.

Defamation ~ : the act of saying false things in order to make people have a bad opinion of someone or something : the act of defaming someone or something

As the allegations of the SUIT has it, Sheard agreed to pay McCray $10,000 to post a malicious letter on his blog, which was, according to Shaw, totally untrue and known to both Sheard and McCray to be unfounded and baseless at the time that it was circulated some 12 years after it was written. According to the allegations this was done in effort to damage Shaw's re-election efforts and punish him for his support of Bishop Thomas Hosley who had been, according to him, moved without due process from his position, prior to his reinstatement. According to the suit, Sheard later agreed to pay McCray $6,000, but after the letter and negative publicity failed to block Shaw from position failed to pay McCray anything at all. 

No one likes things like this (when believers must take high level disputes to the courts) BUT we do have the DUTY to be truthful and honest. We should not be so ambitious that we seek to destroy one another with untruth and spurious and inaccurate information especially in exchange for money. We prove by virtue of that that we are no better than those upon whom the "light" is supposedly shone.

A more indepth story and details can be found HERE and HERE. I don't know who is guilty, but all 3 of these folk can't be telling the truth...somebody needs to go back to the foundation or repentance and turning....SOMEBODY...

CBS Atlanta News

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Sunday, September 8, 2013

A Real "Game-Changer"???...Lord Help Us All!

Titus 1:10-16 ~ 10- For there are many unruly and vain talkers and deceivers, specially they of the circumcision: 11- Whose mouths must be stopped, who subvert whole houses, teaching things which they ought not, for filthy lucre's sake. 12- One of themselves, even a prophet of their own, said, The Cretians are alway liars, evil beasts, slow bellies. 13- This witness is true. Wherefore rebuke them sharply, that they may be sound in the faith; 14- Not giving heed to Jewish fables, and commandments of men, that turn from the truth. 15- Unto the pure all things are pure: but unto them that are defiled and unbelieving is nothing pure; but even their mind and conscience is defiled. 16 -They profess that they know God; but in works they deny him, being abominable, and disobedient, and unto every good work reprobate.

In this world we shall have tribulation!

That statement is no more apparent than when we look at what is perpetrating and passing itself off to be the modern "church".  I suppose it has always been like this. Early on Judaizers were trying to convert believers back into Jewish ritualism for salvation (Acts 15). Later gnostics such as Hymenaeus and Philetus who left the faith, tried to reinvent the teachings of Jesus and the Apostles claiming that either the resurrection had passed or that there was no physical or bodily resurrection because, according to them, the physical body was too evil to resurrect. (2 Tim. 2:18) False teachings were so prevalent until Apostle John warned that we should not "believe every spirit" but "try the spirit" whether it was of God. (1 John 4:1). 


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Tuesday, September 3, 2013

MegaFest To Mega-Controversy


If controversy was what Bishop T.D. Jakes wanted as a result of MegaFest 2013, then he got ALL that he asked for and then some...

Put T.D. Jakes, Oprah Winfrey, and Tyler Perry together in one room, and what do you have? 3 of the wealthiest Black business people in the United States and 3 of the most popular individuals associated with the modern entertainment industry and at least one of which is associated with the gospel and gospel ministry. 

Now, place the same three people at a 3 day MegaFest Conference, add to that by having Tyler Perry lay hands on Jakes,  and Jakes and Oprah share the stage to talk about fatherlessness in America, and top all of that off with Oprah saying, while she's reaching out to God, "I need you"...and what do you have? Probably one of the most controversial and talked about events of the year. 

From pillar to post this event and what happened at the event is reverberating around facebook, google, and every internet venue.  If that was the point of the conference, then on that merit alone, it was a high success.

Why We Are Shocked. 

Many people are shocked because they don't want to believe that any of these people are real. Look at the criticisms, according to them; Tyler is gay, and if he isn't gay, he is unsaved. Look at the reasons why. His
stage presentations are more and more secular and worldly and he dresses in drag to entertain the masses. (which is a shameful thing that most Black actors have been made to do at some point in their entertainment careers) 

Then Oprah, a self proclaimed "Christian free-thinker" who has taken God "out of the box", as we all know, has embraced eclecticism and universalism and what I have called the "many paths" doctrine stating that God can be accessed through many other and various faith paths and beliefs any or all of which have nothing to do with Jesus and some of which are even contrary to the teachings of Jesus. For instance, she has embraced the spiritual deception and ramblings of Eckhart Tolle as I have documented in my series "The New Enlightenment", and teaches that Jesus did not come to die upon the cross, but came to show us the "Christ consciousness" which we all can have just like Jesus did...Oprah has been criticized by some as a modern type of "Jezebel" and a false "prophetess" for all of the aforementioned reasons and more. 

Then T.D. Jakes himself is also controversial. Aside from all that he has done and continues to do to better the plight of humanity through the work of his ministry, the critic says he is not saved because he doesn't understand or teach the trinity and or he too is an "in the closet" homosexual...Well, it is a fact that he tried to suggest that Ruth and Naomi had a lesbian relationship and that David and Jonathon's relationship was suspect as well. In fact here is his exact statement from a message:
“Ruth turns to Naomi and says “I shall not leave thee.” She makes her statement to this woman…that sounds somewhat, somewhere in between poetry, intimacy, and borders on lesbianism. People don’t even know how to explain what Ruth said to Naomi. It makes them uncomfortable. They’re afraid to talk about it. They don’t want to teach on it. Same thing with David and Jonathan…where there were same-sex relationships getting too close, people don’t even know what to say.” ~ [Bishop T.D. Jakes, "Nothing Just Happens" 2001 Woman Thou Art Loosed Conference]
Now, I am yet awaiting anyone who knows whether Bishop clarified or straightened up that statement to let me know...I am awaiting ANYONE who can clarify Oprah's statements and beliefs with additional statements she has made recanting the previous ones to point me toward them also. I certainly don't want to bear false witness. If either of these have corrected their statements, because they are human and may have spoken wrongly, we can promote their corrections just as readily as what was spoken was in obvious error.


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Sunday, August 25, 2013

New Babylon Arising ~ "The Knowledge Economy"


Genesis 11:6-9 ~ 6- And the LORD said, Behold, the people is one, and they have all one language; and this they begin to do: and now nothing will be restrained from them, which they have imagined to do. 7- Go to, let us go down, and there confound their language, that they may not understand one another's speech. 8- So the LORD scattered them abroad from thence upon the face of all the earth: and they left off to build the city. 9- Therefore is the name of it called Babel; because the LORD did there confound the language of all the earth: and from thence did the LORD scatter them abroad upon the face of all the earth.
Jew, and self proclaimed atheist, Mark Zuckerberg, the founder of Facebook and one of the wealthiest men on earth, announced his "rough plan" to partnership with nearly every internet provider on the planet to provide internet access to the worlds over 7 billion people.
 "I think that connecting the world will be one of the most important things we all do in our lifetimes, and I’m thankful every day to have the opportunity to work with all of you to make this a reality" ~ Zuckerberg Pg. 10 
According to most statistics, only 1/3rd of the world has internet access. The other 2/3rds, approximately 5 billion people, are without access or at the least very limited access. It is Zuckerberg's purpose to change all of that by claiming that internet access for all humans is a "human right". In a post on his Facebook page entitled "Is connectivity a human right?" Zuckerberg delivered the following:
"Before the internet and the knowledge economy, our economy was primarily industrial and resource-based. Many dynamics of resource-based economies are zero sum. For example, if you own an oil field, then I can’t also own that same oil field. This incentivizes those with resources to hoard rather than share them. But a knowledge economy is different and encourages worldwide prosperity. It’s not zero sum. If you know something, that doesn’t stop me from knowing it too. In fact, the more things we all know, the better ideas, products and services we can all offer and the better all of our lives will be. ~ Zuckerberg Pg. 2 
Now, the first thing that jumps out is the baseline description of communism as it pertains to how this "knowledge based economy" should be. As a reminder Dictionary.com defines communism as follows: ~ a theory or system of social organization based on the holding of all property in common, actual ownership being ascribed to the community as a whole or to the state. It is imminently clear that Zuckerberg ascribes to the communist model to his "knowledge economy" suggesting that knowledge should belong to "all of us" and further stating that the more all of us know the better off all of us will be. The problem here is does any of his statement or aspirations in this hold true? 

Does Knowledge Equate To "Doing Better"?


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Friday, August 23, 2013

Antoinette Tuff: "I Gave It All To God"

Esther 4:13-16 ~ 13-Then Mordecai commanded to answer Esther, Think not with thyself that thou shalt escape in the king's house, more than all the Jews. 14- For if thou altogether holdest thy peace at this time, then shall there enlargement and deliverance arise to the Jews from another place; but thou and thy father's house shall be destroyed: and who knoweth whether thou art come to the kingdom for such a time as this? 15- Then Esther bade them return Mordecai this answer, 16- Go, gather together all the Jews that are present in Shushan, and fast ye for me, and neither eat nor drink three days, night or day: I also and my maidens will fast likewise; and so will I go in unto the king, which is not according to the law: and if I perish, I perish.

HERO...Antoinette Tuff, a woman who wasn't even supposed to be where she was. Having just received devastating news herself,  saved countless children and adults from near certain tragedy. How did she do this? it certainly wasn't out of her comforts, nor was it out of some belief that this life is all we have. It was out of her faith in a REAL God. It was out of her love for mankind and it was out of her adversity.



Antoinette, helped some of over 870 children and staff who attend and worked for the Ronald E. McNair Discovery Learning Academy  in Decatur, GA. The Academy educates students from Pre-K to 5th grade. These are our babies. They depend upon Antoinette and people like Antoinette to care for them, to love them, to protect them, while they are away from their families throughout the day. 

Out of her abundant BELIEF IN GOD, this woman faced down death, looking into the eyes of a man, not on his medication and unafraid to use a semi-arsenal of guns and weapons. Afterwards, Antoinette understood that IF it hadn't been for her pain, and IF it had not been for her FAITH, IF she had not been in that place at that particular time, then DEATH would have been certain, if not for herself, then for others. 

Michael Brandon Hill, a man who also suffers from some form of mental illness, had been arrested in March for making threats to the Sheriff's office. Although he was on prescribed medication, he failed to take any that day. In this incident he showed up with over 500 rounds of ammunition and fired shots to let everyone know that he meant business. This was intensely serious and almost anything could happen.

Antoinette recounts:
"He had a look on him that he was willing to kill — matter of fact he said it. He said that he didn't have any reason to live and that he knew he was going to die today,"
In the video caption above, Antoinette said that her pastor's wife had taught a message "Push Past The Pain" which spoke to her that no matter what condition she was in, that life's adversities couldn't hold her down and keep her from the blessings of God. She additionally recounted that her Pastor had just begun a new series of teachings, that she was studying designed to encourage the members that life was not over and that through Christ they could do anything. As she said, "Thank God for the Word!"

Why Me?

There are some legitimate questions as to why we all go through what we go through at times. we don't have full knowledge and have to trust god at times that things will be allright. However, I have watched people present what is called the "problem of evil" for years. Some of them even going so far as to claim that if God was God he wouldn't allow certain pain and adversity in life. That HE would simply rescue us from all of our pains because he loves us. But look at this, a little lady, with no gun, in the face of a gunman, that had just received devastating news, husband left her after 33 years of marriage, tried to commit suicide herself due to that failed marriage just last year, has a multiply disabled son, and no telling what else is going on, steps UP, shows her love for God and man by living out her faith THROUGH adversity and all the pain that she has suffered. 

All those folk complaining about God and telling HIM how comfortable their life should be...This woman puts YOU to shame. I think many of them are A BUNCH OF WHINING BABIES seeking to serve themselves. 

The fact is that life is not only about US individually. We go through some things for and on behalf of others. From the depth of our experience and sometimes even pain, others are blessed, helped and encouraged. In other words, if one can make it through what one has experienced, then others have confidence that they can also make it through what they are going through. 

PURPOSE Placed In The Middle

It was Jesus who placed himself in the middle on the cross between the wrath of God and the destruction of man in order to redeem man. This woman not only placed herself between the gunman and the kids and fellow employees, but placed herself between the gunman and the police...She was in the way for a PURPOSE, which is one thing that many people cannot and do not understand. There is a PURPOSE to it all, and that purpose is not to introvertly fail or fall into obscurity. The purpose of God through ALL adversity is for those who would believe and trust in him to succeed. 

Psalms 118:17 ~I shall not die, but live, and declare the works of the LORD.

Similar to Esther, who knows if THIS was why she went through what she went through in life? Her experiences could have been what were necessary to prepare her for THIS incident. To give her the necessary temperament to look at death and say, although I am afraid, I know a God who is above ALL people and all things. Her experiences could have been to give her the love for children to stand there pleading for the life of all instead of running, which she initially thought to do. 

911 Call


Antoinette Tuff, YOU are a TOUGH Sistah!!!! Thank God for you and may the LORD continue to bless you and may he restore unto you all that has been lost with some extra and abundant interest!

Blessed!

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Friday, August 16, 2013

"Preachers" Of LA

Don't Worry, More Governmental Hearings On The Way!
OK, I don't mean to advertise this show, but I must say that I am in anticipation of just how much MESS can come on TV in the name of the Lord. I'll be short with this one but look:

The Sisterhood...CANCELLED! Preacher's Wives...CANCELLED!

But that doesn't disturb or sway the preachers from doing what they do. At probably more than $5,000 to $10,000 per episode, the preacher's gladly say It's MY TURN NOW!

Yes, it's their turn to set the record straight. Pastor Deitrick Haddon, Bishop Noel Jones, Bishop Clarence McClendon, Pastor Wayne Cheney, Bishop Ron Gibson and Pastor Jay Haizlip...It's their turn to tell the world why they can be expected to live lavishly while anything from mega to average sized churches sport and support their mega-lifestyles.


In this trailer alone, there is more than enough information for anyone who loves the Lord to be disturbed about. from a Bishop claiming that he should be able to obtain worldly possessions similar to demonic entertainers; to another claiming that he believes in the part of the bible that declares that we should "prosper and be in good health" which was simply a 1st century greeting, salutation and doxology; to another that claims that he is a "prize" that should be "won"...

HOUSTON, We have a PROBLEM! And the problem is not God...it's those who want to make God be and approve all the devilment that they like to do...This "expose" could be just what is necessary for the rest of the world to see these gentleman as they really are. I don't know, but I will certainly be watching...and the COMMENTS will be ON!!!!!

Blessed! 

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Thursday, August 15, 2013

Hip-Hop, Idolatry & The Church Pt. 22 ~Satanism On Your TV

Praise the LORD from whom ALL BLESSINGS flow! Taken a break but I'm back for a minute...But you need to read this:

Theurgy (Magic) - The Operation of Moon - Theurgy translates to "The Science or art of Divine Works." There are two different types of magic, according to Giovanni Pico della Mirandola's Apology, completely opposite of one another. The first is Goëtia, black magic reliant upon an alliance with evil spirits (i.e. demons). The second is Theurgy, divine magic reliant upon an alliance with divine spirits (i.e. angels, archangels, gods). In the practice of Hermetic theurgy, these are invoked in order to awaken elemental, planetary, an zodiacal forces in the physical and energetic bodies. Theurgy is the practical aspect of the astrology. Ritual magic and all modern magical traditions ultimately derive from Hermetic theurgy.
Hermetic Order of the Golden Dawn ~ website

I haven't visited this topic in a while due to other equally as important and exciting ministerial ventures, topics and programs undertaken. In part, my children, bless their hearts, have kept me informed of some of the latest happenings in the music industry, because I am one of those saints who DO NOT listen to R&B, or it's brother hip-hop except to review it's content and when my attention is called to certain points, lyrics or beats. However, as I turn to focus my eyes once again, I find that the modern music industry and most specifically that associated with modern hip-hop, neo soul and R & B, is in a most desperate and continued need of deliverance.

I will focus on a few points delivering information and focusing on the subject from a slightly different perspective than most do. I will also discuss and reference a couple of websites that I believe you may want to link to and keep up with as they have undertaken to thoroughly examine this particular aspect of modern music. That aspect is satanism and the 'devil' in the music. 

I have talked about this trend in bits and pieces in multiple articles previously. What I have found is that producers and sometimes unwitting artists, are producing more and more "mystically centered" garbage in effort to seduce and cast spells on the minds of our children and those who give themselves to the pursuit of fame, association and attention. The church is impacted because it has taken upon itself to mimic the styles and imaginations of these enemies of the cross. As we will point out, these efforts usually occur in the name of "reaching" children. Needless to say, this is a horrible strategy of evangelization and, in my opinion, must cease as a strategy and be thoroughly denounced through and by biblically centered preaching and teaching.

Side Note:
...And I must say I APPLAUD a Mt. Salem BAPTIST church that undertook to remove their pastor as he  by his actions expressed that supporting hip-hop could be reconciled with faith and purity in Christ...It seems that while many of the so called "Saints" (as we were once exclusively called) are running to and fro to find out how much of a partnership and fellowship with the world that we can have and still "resemble"


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