Hip-Hop, Idolatry & The Church Pt. 1

Happy New Year! May The Lord Continue To Bless You In 2009 and Look Up, For Your Redemption Draweth Nigh!

This blog is the first in a series designed to look at the hip-hop culture and its effects on the church and communities in which we live. Although we will uncover and discover certain actions from those within the hip-hop industry who are non Christians, the primary concern is the church and it's relationship, response or non response to those actions, events and the people involved with the promotion of hip-hop and it's anti-God message. We will also examine the more dangerous genre of music within the church often called Holy Hip-Hop, which is filled with many of the same allegiances, values and world view perspectives as secular hip-hop.

I would like the interested reader to know that New Bethel Ministries has prepared a 4 part cassette tape series called "The Travesty of Hip- Hop" which is available along with a booklet called "Why Hip-Hop Can't Be Holy" for a donation to the ministry of no less than $20. The tape series covers 2 messages that I preached and 2 full one hour radio presentations which includes an interview with Karl Reid, a founding member of the Gospel group Commissioned, in which we go in depth discussing the problems associated with the hip-hop culture and the churches desire to appease the culture. Please send all correspondence to P.O Box 6167 Peoria, IL. 61601 specifying that you would like the hip-hop series. In addition please enclose all prayer requests to be handled by me personally, and allow 3 weeks for delivery.

I would also like to recommend any of the vast amount of resources available at EX Ministries under the direction of Elder G. Craige Lewis. Elder Lewis has pioneered this sort of ministry for a number of years by the leading of the Holy-Ghost. I would like to say that churches everywhere including ours owe him a great deal of thanks and gratitude for his unfailing efforts to continue to speak to our youth, churches and culture regarding this highly sensitive and very divisive subject matter.

In this series I will examine and answer the following questions:

1- What is hip-hop? Music or a religion?

2- Who are the apostles, disciples of hip-hop and what is the message of modern hip-hop?

3- What is the relationship of hip-hop to the community & the church?

4- What are the effects of the hip-hop culture on sexuality in general and more specifically teen promiscuity?

5- What have been the effects and contribution of hip-hop toward homosexuality and misogyny?

6- Is there anything the collective church can do to turn back this tide of evil?

What we can say to begin with is that this is a very controversial subject matter and often the proponents of hip-hop, both outside and within the church, are so committed to it that they would rather continue their love for it, and reverential treatment of its icons, to such an extent that to preach against it automatically evokes anger and disdain. For those of us who are spiritually minded, we automatically equate this type of resistance to the spiritual warfare that we know exists and the strongholds that the world is overtaken by.

Galations 6:12 ~ "For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of darkness of this present world, against spiritual wickedness in high places."

The unsaved do not have the understanding of the spiritual battle that is underway for their souls, hearts and minds. Hip-hop and its message permeates individuals through constant images, pictures, language, clothes and even colognes and perfumes.

Then, there are many churches who have taken the position that in order to be attractive to the community, the church must become a promoter of hip-hop and also become inclusive as to cater to the needs of the hip-hop community and make provisions for the hip hop culture within the church. Therefore much resistance to the message against hip-hop comes from spaghetti-backed ministers who either forgot or never knew the mission of God to the church or community.

Matthew 28:19-20a ~ "Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son and of the Holy Ghost: 20- teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you:"

The mission of the church was to help the world identify with Christ and to teach the world the ways of God, but somehow many churches have turned that around and now the church has identified themselves with the world and are seeking to learn its lessons of marketing, inclusion etc.

Then without doubt, because of the varying degrees of social disparity that we find within the educational system, the criminal justice system and because of the breakdown of the inner city family (the black family in particular) hip hop has made its way to the center of social "normalcy" of American lifestyle, so much until one almost can't pick up a secular magazine without being presented with some sort of message formulated for, by or catering to the hip hop culture.

Exodus 20:3 ~ "Thou shalt have no other gods before me."

As simple as the first commandment of God may seem it is often the most violated commandment that that we witness both within and outside of the modern day church. Both Christians and non-Christians are quick to make idols of their favorite preachers, artists, and musicians and fight vehemently for them. While there is certainly nothing wrong with loyalty, there is however something wrong with establishing and promoting idolatry and becoming a conduit for idol worship.

One of the most popular TV shows is called American Idol. The show seriously and sometimes hilariously displays the preoccupation with becoming famous at almost any cost. This is the hook of hip-hop. The promise that hip-hop will somehow make one popular, sexy or more appealing. Unfortunately this has become the position of the modern church as it pertains to hip-hop and the hip-hop culture and agenda and it is having devastating effects on our youth and families. While I don't intend to lay all of the blame for our communities current condition at the feet of hip-hop, the hip-hop culture has not added anything of benefit or to stem the tide of the conditions that we currently face.

In the last 30 years since hip-hop has been promoted and accepted within the black community we have simultaneously experienced the highest per-ca pita incarceration rates among young black males, the highest per- ca pita unwed pregnancy rates among young black females, the highest per-ca pita STD rates among young black females and the highest poverty and under education rates per segment of society.

The question should be asked what has hip-hop really done? Example: we should ask are braids, tattoos, and low rider pants positive career choices within secular America? Is carrying a "gat" or being shot multiple times part of the the value system that we want to promote within society and especially among our youth? Is frequenting strip-clubs, misogynistic ideals toward women and idolizing pornographic and obscene adult situations really the message that we want to pass on to our children, promote through our schools and support through our churches?

Now, it must be said that everyone who likes hip hop does not necessarily like those things or aspects of hip-hop, but can those things really and truly be separated from the effects of hip-hop? With that said we must then ask the question:

What Is Hip-Hop?

What arguably began with musical and lyric arrangements by Kool DJ Herc(Left) in the late 70's, blossomed to a musical style that allowed common people a way of expression and self empowerment. Because of social tensions, and economic disparity around the country, hip-hop having it's roots in the ghetto's and boroughs of New York and the eastern seaboard, soon became a way to sound off about what was commonly seen and known to an often overlooked subclass of Americans called the living poor. The target was black youth who were frustrated with society and socially not at rest. This new style became the baptismal pool into which Afrika Bambaataa(Right), the founder of the Universal Zulu Nation would be able to immerse millions of young black youth into a resurrected brand of Egyptology and pharaoism. The venue of hip-hop would be a place of yet further promoting the message of individuality and self-supremacy, and ultimately the deism of man. Mr. Bambaataa currently appears in a commercial with Common wearing an Egyptian headdress, to symbolize his pharoahic supremacy. Common, who defended the nasty and misogynistic lyrics of many artists within the hip-hop industry on the Oprah Winfrey show, while simultaneously calling women "Earth" from "their mother Earth", has also released a new CD accurately entitled "Universal Mind Control". This is quite representative of what the spirit through him and other hiphoppers and neo-soul artists are attempting to do.

Because of its origins and initial appeal some currently suggest that hip-hop is merely a musical style, preference or certain arrangements of rhythmic beats. However, hip-hop grew and its ideals grew along with it. Many of those same young men and women impacted and influenced by hip-hop and its messages of self-exaltation, in it's early years began to see that there was more to hip-hop than music and or lyrics and that it was easy to communicate frustrations and observations through music that were difficult to communicate through cognitive conversation.

This has led to hip-hop further defining itself as something much greater than music and more far reaching than lyrics. Unlike the music of the Temptations, The Dells and the Supremes a decade or two earlier, hip-hop had an agenda, promoters, and individuals representing certain groups and religions that were ready to speak through the music to its target audience and further define its aim and goals upon American society. Religious groups such as the 5% Nation Of god's and earths. Founded by Clarence 13 X (Clarence Jowers Smith- murdered in 1969) soon found a way to speak the message of the supremacy of man through music, but even then it seemed somewhat innocuous because it only spoke to those who felt the pain and attracted the attention of those who felt the promise. In addition the church was enamoured and preoccupied with getting larger, more respected and more reputable within the community, and the deeds and needs of a whole generation of individuals almost went unnoticed until their invisibility became visible on the news, in the streets and on magazine covers.

As recently as 1997 singer and artist Erykah Badu, who sold 3 million CDs of her 1997 debut and won a Grammy for rhythm and blues album of the year, credited the 5% Nation as an influence. Several of her songs include bits of 5% teachings. Erykah is also expecting her third child out of wedlock by as many men. Andre 3000 is her oldest son's father while rapper D.O.C. is her daughters daddy. The sad part is that at her height she was admired by many Christian women for her seeming strength, boldness and spirituality.

The Wu Tang Clan, a powerhouse in today's hip-hop world, fresh with a new video honoring its history and rappers who have openly claimed themselves to be deity, sings explicitly about the teachings of the 5% Nation. Method Man and Red Man were even so popular that they had their own sit-com for about a half a season. (ie: their lifespan was very short lived) and were featured in a movie called "How High".

Then there's Rakim, an old-school rapper; who drops "jewels" from the lessons of the 5% Nation into his songs. Mogul Busta Rhymes who recently "ripped" (rapped at) DJ Khaled's birth day party at a nightclub in South beach, FL. (Source: Hip Hop Weekly Vol. 3 Issue 25) is an avid and active 5% member. These are the artists that many of our youth have become enamoured by even though most of them think they are simply listening to the music, they are also receiving something far greater. They are receiving a worldview which is designed to trap their souls and devastate their spirits.

What does the 5% Nation teach?

Here are some of the tenets that are promoted through many 5% hip-hop artists:

1. That black people are the original people of the planet earth.

2. That black people are the fathers and mothers of civilization.

3. That the science of Supreme Mathematics is the key to understanding man's relationship to the universe.

4. Islam is a natural way of life, not a religion.

5. That education should be fashioned to enable us to be self sufficient as a people.

6. That each one should teach one according to their knowledge.

7. That the blackman is god and his proper name is ALLAH. Arm, Leg, Leg, Arm, Head.

8. That our children are our link to the future and they must be nurtured, respected, loved, protected and educated.

9. That the unified black family is the vital building block of the nation.

Contrary to popular knowledge, hip-hop has also established it's own "ministry" and has set forth that it is seeking to be more than music could or would ever be or become. In fact, one of its leading proponents, KRS ONE (formerly Lawrence Krisna Parker) the founder of the Temple Of Hip-Hop, which is a hip-hop preservation society, has declared

"hip hop is not just the music, it is a lifestyle" ~KRS ONE

To make the transition to the business and political end of hip-hop one must notice one of the most vocal proponents and promoters of hip-hop in modern America. He is the 51 year old Russell Simmons, founder of multiple businesses including Def Jam Records and Entertainment which gave rise to comedians such as Chris Rock and serious promotion to others such as Martin Lawrence and the late Bernie Mack through the Def Jam Comedy Show. Mr. Simmons is also the founder of the Hip-Hop Summit Action Network which meets annually to discuss the direction of hip-hop and it's mission towards the youth and the community in general. Mr. Simmons recently declared:

"...that the hip-hop nation moves as an army, an army that determines what's hot in this country. That's a tremendous amount of power to wield. Which is why I want to encourage our army to not only flex our muscle in the artistic and commercial worlds, but in the political and social process as well." (Do You, Gotham Books 2007, pg. 275)

Mr. Simmons has taken the advantage of the opportunity to point out that "muscleflex", by stating that the election of President Barack Obama was due to the hip-hop community and the emerging consciousness promoted by Eckhart Tolle and other mystical teachers. The words of Mr. Simmons:

• "The vision of the hip-hop generation and its young people is in full and glorious effect. While many older Americans marched and struggled so hard so Senator Obama could run for President of the United States never dared believe in his candidacy's real potential, young people particularly the hip-hop community, had faith and their imagination became our reality. The election of Barack Obama, a resounding progressive voice, is a clear reflection of hip-hop politics. It's a reflection of the 35 Million who downloaded Eckhart Tolle's "A New Earth" and all the other popular books espousing this new emerging consciousness." (Hip Hop Weekly Edwards Media Vol. 3 Issue 24 Pg. 26)

The Source Magazine which claims to be the "bible of hip-hop" declared very similar:

• "But it was the youth vote- the hip-hop vote- that clearly made a difference in this election"..."He(President Obama) is a product of the hip-hop generation. While not necessarily "hood" in the street sense of the word, Obama has worked for and organized the "hood". Even as he claims to love and appreciate some hip-hop he has spoken out against its more explicit and offensive lyrics" ~ (L. Londell McMillan The Source Magazine December 2008 Issue #228, pg. 55)

What is telling about these statements is that hip-hop is claiming individuals merely because they are "close" in proximity to hip-hop. For these reasons and others, it should be obvious that hip-hop is not merely a music style, lyric or rhythm. It is a social culture that defines, motivates and shapes hearts dreams and aspirations. It is also a direct attempt to inculturate our youth permeating and redefining all norms of society.

Further, it is even more interesting to note that individuals such as Mr. Simmons and his brother affectionately called Rev. Run founder of the rap group Run DMC do not allow their children to listen to hip-hop music in their presence.

Should there be any wonder why not even those making money from hip hop don't allow their children to listen to it?

Religious Declarations?

As with any religion or worldview the Temple Of Hip-Hop has also defined it's primary tenents and method by which problems should be resolved. Those tenents are provided through what is called the Hip-Hop Declaration of Peace. From their website:

• This Hiphop Declaration of Peace guides Hiphop Kulture toward freedom from violence, and establishes advice and protection for the existence and development of the international Hiphop community. Through the principles of this Hiphop Declaration of Peace we, Hiphop Kulture, establish a foundation of Health, Love, Awareness, Wealth, peace and prosperity for ourselves, our children and their children's children, forever. For the clarification of Hiphop's meaning and purpose, or when the intention of Hiphop is questioned, or when disputes between parties arise concerning Hiphop; Hiphoppas shall have access to the advice of this document, The Hiphop Declaration of Peace, as guidance, advice and protection.
  

The declaration promotes peace at the same time it's messengers glorify and promote violence. The declaration promotes health while at the same time it's proponents promote, promiscuous sexual behavior, the exploitation of women and fast cash through the sale of drugs.

The declaration of hip-hop states that IT should be consulted to clarify the meaning and intent of hip-hop when there are questions or disputes. Due to the crime violence, murders and "beefs" that we see among the hip-hop community it's obvious that not all "hiphoppas" ascribe to this declaration which we will touch on later in this series.

The Hip-Hop Temple & It's Message

The Temple of hip hop describes its beliefs and practices as "independent collective consciousness". What the temple has successfully done is replace independent consciousness with consciousnesses dependent upon it for direction and acceptance. Under Principle One, the elements (body) of hip-hop are:

• Breakin,
  Emceein,
  Graffiti Art,
  Deejayin,
  Beatboxin,
  Street Fashion,
  Street Language,
  Street Knowledge and
  Street Entrepreneurialism

The hip-hop culture is primarily based on Street Knowledge which the temple defines as follows:

• STREET KNOWLEDGE: (The study and application of ancestral wisdom). Commonly refers to the basic common sense and accumulated wisdom of inner-city families. It consists of techniques, phrases, codes and terms used to survive within the inner-cities. It involves the ability to reason soundly with or without the ideas or validation of the traditional academic mainstream. Street Knowledge is the accumulation of Hip Hop’s cultural self-awareness

It is interesting because the bible has defined this type of knowledge as earthly, sensual and devilish (James 3:15) certainly not what has descended from above or that is given by God.

Additional principles are outlined as follows:

• *Sixth Principle
• Hiphop Kulture honors no relationship, person, event, act or otherwise wherein the preservation and further development of Hiphop's culture, principles and elements are not considered or respected. Hiphop Kulture does not participate in activities that clearly destroy or alter its ability to productively and peacefully exist. Hiphoppas are encouraged to initiate and participate in fair trade and honesty in all negotiations and transactions.

This principle could not be more clear. Hip-hop does not honor you IF you do not honor it. In other words it wants God status. To preach against hip-hop according to this declaration is to make one anathema to hip-hop. While quite certainly sure that this and other principles were also used to promote the music and it's message, this observation cannot be merely cast aside or overlooked.

• *Seventh Principle
• The essence of Hiphop is beyond entertainment: The elements of Hiphop Kulture may be traded for money, honor, power, respect, food, shelter, information and other resources; however, Hiphop and its culture cannot be bought, nor is it for sale. It (Hiphop) cannot be transferred or exchanged by or to anyone for any compensation at any time or at any place. Hiphop is not a product. Hiphop is the priceless principle of our self-empowerment.

Once again it should be clearly noted that hip-hop has defined itslelf as a culture ie: worldview with overarching premises that are not to be compromised.

• *Eighth Principle
• Companies, corporations, non and not-for-profit organizations, as well as individuals and groups that are clearly benefiting from the use, interpretation and/or exploitation of the term Hiphop, (i.e. Hip Hop, hip-hop,) and the expressions and terminologies of Hiphop, (i.e. Hip Hop, hip-hop,) are encouraged to commission and/or employ a full-time or part-time certified Hiphop Kultural Specialist to interpret and answer sensitive cultural questions regarding the principles and proper presentations of Hiphop’s elements and culture; relative to businesses, individuals, organizations, communities, cities, as well as other countries.

This principle indicates that before one can accurately discuss hip-hop one must either hire or consult a "Kultural specialist" In other words the words and moves of hip-hop must be interpreted by a temple member or authorized representative.

Hip -hop has defined the following things for us:

• Hip-hop is more than music, it is a culture and a complete world view
• Hip-hop is a godless worldview in which man is replaced and exalted to the status of God
• Many of the major artists within hip-hop belong to anti-God religious groups and use the music of hip hop to promote their anti-Christ messages.
• Hip-hop does not respect anyone or any institution who does not seek to preserve hip-hop nor promote it's principles.
• When all things are considered we can safely say that hip-hop is an atheistic religion in practice and a humanistic worldview in philosophy.

This information only scratches the surface of the hip hop culture and it's mission to todays youth. In the next parts of this series we will uncover the churches relationship to the hip hop industry, discover the problems of morality and sexuality rampant within hip-hop and discuss how the hip-hop motif promotes homosexuality, lesbianism and the further disentegration of the family even against it's very own tenents.

It can't go without noting that we have many churches who are now catering to the hip-hop crowd, not by preaching the truth but by compromising the holiness of God, claiming that they are reaching the masses and replacing ineffective religion with a new spiritual fervor.

We will also look at what we must do as a church to help liberate our youth from the destruction underneath the surface of the hip-hop culture.

A person asked me during a radio interview, how can we reach the youth if we don't use these methods. I responded by saying that Jesus has been reaching youth and old alike for over 2000 years of human history. He has still promised that If he is lifted up, he would draw all men unto himself. (Jn. 12:32) Serving Jesus will do infinately more than hip-hop will ever do for any of it's proponents or adherents. The church must not become the place where the need for the worlds ecclecticism and psudospirituality brings excitement. We serve a great and mighty God who is more than able to save heal and deliver just as he has always done without hip-hop or any of the hip-hop elements.

Blessed!

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Spreading Mega Ministry Holiday Cheer

Saints, I had hoped to run through Christmas on an easy, less intense note. However I was stirred because I received some information on one of our posts that I thought certainly needed to be discussed going into 2009. You may shelve this for future review as to not "mess up" your holiday, but I believe that you will find the contents of this post a terrible reminder of the fallen condition of the church, and hopefully a motivator to lend your prayers and gifts to help solve this problem.

It all begins with a deleted post that I received from a commenter on this site. The post was deleted by the poster but was received by me before it could be deleted. I am also asking the original poster, (who will remain anonymous) to comment further either by email or directly on this site IF they (he/she) deems it necessary. I feel that the contents are especially important for us that are praying that god change the nature of the church for end times ministry. If we do nothing else, I believe this will be a stark reminder of why we must fall on our faces and continue to serve the Lord in righteousness. Hold on to your seats, here we go:

"Hello there!

Thank you for this interview!

I used to work for a "show biz" bishop who was on television every day in different countries.

I saw that there was always a team that protected the image of the "show biz" pulpit celeb. We were berated if we spoke out against sins of other preachers. We were told "YOU aren't without sin yourself so what are you talking about?"

There was a situation where a prominent person came for private prayer and counsel and did not know that his session was tape recorded! This happened more than once in "deliverance" meetings. They say that they tape the sessions in order to protect themselves. Well...one minister started blackmailing a prominent person with the information that was shared in a PRIVATE meeting where this person came for counsel. This minister is now behind bars. These are the things you don't see in the papers.

There are people being paid cash because they have duties to the Bishop but they are not listed on the staff.There is a lack of accountability.The bishop I worked for would tell the masses that NO ONE could criticize him when he has accomplished more than they have for the kingdom. Yessss...he has said this publicly. If anyone told the truth about whatever was being hidden, they were banished by everyone near the Bishop, and their private business was "leaked" to others. Often, the bishop would make comments publicly from the pulpit alluding to the person who had wronged him in a way that people knew who he was mentioning without saying the person's name. This was a way of warning all others who had dirt on him that he would do the same with them.I would like to say this is SO RARE but it isn't.

I believe the church CAN be the salt and the light...but first...we must become repentant, reconciled, cleansed and whole.Peace, blessings and DUNAMIS!"

(NAME WITHHELD by Pastor Burnett)

I would like to say that this is a terrible indictment of the condition of church leadership. I would also like to extend that anyone who has suffered in the church because of a ministers misfeasance or malfeasance is certainly welcome here at the Dunamis Word or at any of the New Bethel Ministry sites, locations or associated ministries, or any of the other fine churches and ministries that we network with. If you are tired of "fluff" and need assistance in finding a good ministry in your area, please email me personally at Dunamis1@netzero.com You may also call me or email me with your prayer requests or to discuss your situation.

I would also like to say that if you have been the victim or witness of this or any other type of ungodliness in any pulpit, run, NOT WALK to the nearest exit. God has much better for you than what you are experiencing at the Ichabod Memorial Church that you are attending. I know that there are some of you who don't fellowship at any church simply because of garbage like this. This is the day of your deliverance and healing and I personally believe that God wants you to LIVE because he is LIFE.

Ps. 118:17~ "I shall not die but live, and declare the works of the Lord."

John 1:4 ~ "In him was the life; and the life was the light of men"

John 8:12~ "Then spake Jesus again unto them saying, I am the light of the world: he that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life."

John 10:10 ~ "The thief cometh not, but for to steal, kill, and to destroy: I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly."

Now, the critic will undoubtedly criticize me for exposing church failures; saying how can we be an effective witness when we're talking negatively? First of all these individuals and the pertinent, guilty parties expose themselves and their sins. Secondly, I pose to you that there is nothing covered that shall not be revealed. (Mt. 9:26, Mk. 4:22, Lk. 12:2) I believe that service to Christ is the highest possible call in the land. I also believe that God's people are to be handled with care, the utmost regard and the highest integrity especially within the context of the church. The modern church has become so "business like" and modern ministers so akin to business persons and politicians, until we have forgotten that ministry is all about service to God and HIM only and that unto the safeguard and keeping of the flock of God.

I am ashamed to hear that we are living in a time when charlatanism is acceptable within the body of Christ and discernment is held to be an oddity or non essential element of Christian service. A commenter recently challenged the notion of spiritual discernment, reducing hearing and serving God to political and social posturing by claiming that I was merely trying to "influence" individuals to agree with my views and that I was simply pandering for an "amen crowd". You'll find that HERE.

This Christmas and New Year season, let us not only celebrate with our families, but let us commit to being a part of the change that the church so desperately needs. I am extremely blessed by those of you who have called and emailed me saying that this blog has helped encourage you to enter the next stage and dimension of ministry. Now however, we must move forward together at the speed that god has given us grace to travel supporting and praying for one another as we honor the TRUTH that is the only thing that will stem this tide of apostasy. We have the strength, the Lord is on our side and there is NO WEAPON formed against us that shall prosper.

May the Lord Bless each and every one of you, may he make HIS face to shine upon you, may he bless and keep you in the Power of the Holy Ghost is my prayer.

Blessed!

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Do You Hear What I Hear?

I would have hoped that Christmas 2008 could have seen better social news other than the expected mass layoffs at major corporations, financial bailouts for the automotive industry, massive business bankruptcies, and an economy that has lost over 2 Million jobs in the last 12 months. I would have hoped that even thieves like Madoff actually who "made off" with billions of dollars invested in fictitious schemes and scams and Governors of States like mine would have been stories confined to the pages of mystery and fantasy novels. Unfortunately, we've all witnessed that the truth is stranger than fiction.

Then, There Are Religious Leaders.

Now it’s one thing to make a mistake in your message. I’ve done that before. Called a wrong date or a wrong scripture or even reversed a sequence. Those things can be corrected as any minister reading this can relate. However, one cannot correct a fundamentally flawed paradigm unless one is willing to change that paradigm. Most paradigm’s (for this writing-fundamental understanding of scripture) have develop over time. If your paradigm is flawed and the flaws are not corrected, or recast in the correct mode, then it is possible to build and even perfect a wrong understanding of scripture and make highly attractive displays out of foundation-less buildings of paper and glass.

Then there’s the area of psychology. Because no one sets out in life to have a flawed paradigm or set of beliefs. The next step is often to make your belief system seem "normal" or acceptable within the "system" or realm operation. One way to do this is to amass individuals who are in agreement with your paradigm. Another way is to shade your beliefs until it is warranted that they be exposed, and finally interconnect your beliefs with so many other things until it becomes cumbersome if not impossible for anyone to root up everything all at once.


Secular companies implore marketing strategies that have used this method of operation for years. In the banking industry for instance, it is called "relationship banking". You start with a free checking account or savings account then they cross-sell and offer you as many products as you can stand over a period of time. Ultimately if a customer decides to leave the bank, they will think twice before moving all of their deposits because not only will they have multiple accounts, but now you have services such as loans and credit cards and they are often paid by auto-draft from one of those "free" accounts. If you close your accounts you’ll have to worry about setting up a new payment methods etc which will take more of your time and cause you an inconvenience…ie: The bank’s aim is to get you in so deep until it becomes cumbersome for you to leave and to your advantage to not think critically or "sweat" the small stuff.


These same techniques are perfected in the streets. Drug dealers know how to keep regular clients by offering "freebies" or extra’s after certain clients have spent so much. Pimps have managed to learn how to keep certain women under control by defining their thoughts for them, and making them interdependent upon him and his "efforts" (even if he does nothing) and soothing it over with drugs and the pretense of "protection".

In both cases those individuals and victims, have been "cross-sold" so deeply that to change their situation is thought to be a laborious task with no end in sight. Often change does not occur until they are forced to do so by being totally and physically removed from the situation and environment.

What Happens When A Church Or Minister Takes This Same Approach?


In his recently aired 12/21/2008 Christmas message, "5 Points To My Star" Bishop T.D. Jakes set forth what I thought to be some pretty motivational and inspiring words. But it’s what’s before during and after those words of inspiration that is so utterly shocking and disturbing that I decided to write this post.


First of all, and I don’t claim to know his thoughts, but a 5 Point Star, which was the title of his message, is a pentagram. Now this is probably the easiest type of star to draw and one that most children learn in school, however a pentagram is a symbol of WICCA or Wiccan Witchcraft. In fact, even more disturbingly, an inverted, interlocked pentagram is a symbol of a Satanism aka Luciferianism and a demon icon called Beowulf.

Surprisingly this symbol is also prevalent within Hip-Hop similar to the peace sign which is a broken cross upside down as an anti-war symbol within rock and roll and the free-sex era (which will be addressed in an upcoming post).

It was interesting that Bishop chose 5 points when a more biblically centered symbol would have been the Star Of David, a 6 pointed star drawn from Judaism.


It was even more interesting as he mingled motivational utterances with his version of the gospel. He encouraged the individuals to know 1- That they have nothing to do with the promise of God upon their lives, 2- That they should grow "outside" the system ie: away from religious tradition and peoples expectations 3- They should remember that everyone that follows doesn’t necessarily want them to succeed, and 4- That they should keep their "gifts" hidden while they grow.



I don’t believe he got to the 5th point in that segment, but many of those points especially points 2 and 4 were disturbing because they come right out of the mind control handbook, (if there were such a thing). Secondly, he left the word "gifts" open to interpretation and one can only speculate as to what he means based on other erroneous doctrines that he espouses see :GCMWatch Jakes Exposed

But of equal importance was how concluded that segment and by defining the relationship of Jesus and Mary, his mother.

Using the events of acts 2:4 as his backdrop, Bishop stated that Mary identified Jesus aka the Holy Ghost because he had "been in her womb before." "Before Pentecost" says Jakes, "Jesus was in her womb as a baby but now he was in her womb as a quickening spirit".

Now, I don’t know how one makes the leap from a baby or physical pregnancy to the Holy Ghost indwelling of God’s Spirit, (other than analogously) But Jakes made the case that there was a physical and material identification by Mary to the Holy Ghost whom he identified as Jesus. Not only is this a literal and biblical untruth, it’s a total misrepresentation of the relationship between Jesus and Mary and God and HIS church. In other words what he espoused was rank doctrinal heresy.

Clearly there is an audience that not only cannot recognize when someone is divining their minds and spirits, but also does not care when the most carnal and subjective references and paradigms are used to interpret biblical texts and understand spiritual relationships documented within the bible.

In other words Jakes complete paradigm is not a biblical paradigm but a paradigm based on his personal thoughts and revelations, oneness Pentecostalism , subjugation of the masses through media and propaganda, relationship marketing strategies, and cross-selling ministry services.

If the audience is any representation of the multi-million dollar annual media sales it is obviously possible to get people so deep and intertwined in superficial and fluff, self promotion until whatever is said will always be reinterpreted to mean something different than what it was originally intended or understood to mean.

Biblical Insight

The Star in the biblical record (Mt. 2:2) was a supernatural event, designed to draw those who had eyes to see to Jesus. Neither Herod, Caiphas, or any of those in Judea could see the star (Mt. 2:7) as proven by Herrod’s inquiry that the heavens were not open to them, but it was open to those called "wise men" from the east who at a minimum had traveled a long journey west to see the star that rose in the east. This was a supernatural opening in which the light of the Lord shone through the veil of humanity. An opening that was reminiscent to the Baptism of Jesus in which the heaven’s were opened (Mt. 3:16, Mk. 1:10, Lk. 3:21) and one similar to that through which Jesus appeared to Saul and he was converted to Paul (Acts 9:3) see: T. Michael Davis "Christian Research Journal" Vol. 30 #6 2007 Pg. 19. In all cases the "light" led individuals to Jesus.

The point is that the star wasn’t the focus or the end of the journey, Jesus was.

It would seem that the church is struggling to learn that it doesn’t matter what the points of "our" star are. Jesus already knows what we have suffered that has lead us to this place. What we should remember that if whatever star we follow doesn’t lead us to see Jesus and learn who HE is, it’s a journey that is not worth traveling.

Merry Christmas to all and to all a good night(or day)

Blessed!

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An Interview With The Pastor

Recently one of our regular commenters Enochwalked, asked me some rather profound questions. As I was in the process of answering, the Lord said make this a main post so that the church can see. I hope you enjoy this and your comments are more than welcome. Thank you Elder for posing these serious and timely questions.

Enochwalked: What is your "holy opinion" on this article? The Washington Post Condition Of The Black Family.

Pastor Burnett: Well brother, there is a lot that could be said, but I would first say that the breakdown of the black family should not solely be laid at the feet of the black family. What the article didn't address is Johnson's welfare program which was fashioned to give broken families and single mothers incentives for children and conversely for failure of the family. I mean anytime you tell a family they can have so much money permanently (until the child is 18) if they have a child and no father is in the home, what do you expect to see?

Then she didn't mention the failed "War On Drugs" which was a way to get the black youth both under control and off the streets leaving our neighborhoods to slick undercover pimps, bullys and available preachers.

Then she failed to mention the failure of the educational system, during the same period of time, in adjusting and finding ways to educate black youth against the backdrop of their changing culture.

This is what I call the "perfect storm" against the black family and it had all the tools and power that it was designed to have. Why do you think mandatory minimum sentencing still exists even though MOST law enforcement officials know the disparity and problems that it creates? This stuff was designed to do what it did and our families suffer as a result of over 30 years of failed policies and plans and the weak backbone of a extremely weak church who though that it could shout and dance itself through every problem that it experienced...That is and was the problem. Total failure to connect, adapt, change, move and become the clarion institution that would set the pace for change instead of merely responding to others as they make changes.

Where is the black church? Are we in front of issues? Some are. I certainly try to be in my community, but all too often we are second responders IF we respond at all.

So far as unemployment was concerned, one of the major culprit's has been governmental policy. You see in major industrial cities across America, factories got up and got out because it was cheaper to do business elsewhere. This was why some of our black men and families, who were factory workers were devastated and cities began to change. We sill see the effects of this today in places like Detroit, LA, and New York.

So yes the statistics are devastating and very revealing but I believe they are highly incomplete.

Enochwalked: Is SIN the major reason that we have lost the black family--husband and wife structure? We have more prosperity today but we have raised children who are reprobates and do not know the LORD!

Pastor Burnett: Brother sin is the major reason, but as I said there is enough sin in places that caused sin in the streets that we see today. I'm trying to say this, we see the symptoms of the sins that were either placed upon our communities or that our communities chose.

Example, Hip-Hop (which I will be doing a full series on in a very short period of time)arose during the same time period that the black family broke down. Why was it so appealing to the masses of youth? It became the father than many youth never knew. It became the mother that many youth were not familiar with. It was the place, to express, communicate and sound off because people weren't being listened to. It developed it's own culture and part of that culture was to teach and reteach and because converted Muslims saw it as a way to gain an audience the message became mixed with Islam, resurrected Egyptology, Human deism and other ideologies right under our nose.

Some churches simply said turn the music off, while others told the participants and hip-hop aspirants to simply send them a tithe check, but they did not battle the "spirit" within the music or deal with the message itself. We failed to teach and train or even accept young unwed mothers and young men wanting to be gangsta's until it was almost too late to redeem them and their children were too old.

So yes, sin is at the root, but the church and establishment will not escape the judgement of God for their dereliction of duty to defend the weak and poor.

Enochwalked: Who or what failed to bring the Black Family to the conditions we have today ([do] you see this problem in both Black Christians and Black unbelievers)?

Pastor Burnett: Church leadership failed to adequately respond through the development of a message. I'm not talking about a "ministry". Some churches have over 200 ministries for everything and everybody in the church. I'm takling about a general direction and prescribed path for the people, neighborhoods and community to follow.

We say, "daughter/son, get off the street and stop sellin' drugs." But how much money have we spent to help them stop sellin' drugs? I'm not talking about church welfare. I'm talking about creating and developing life skill sets that will on point teach and train these young men and ladies to be free from what they are doing, that will recreate "life" for them and their community. So that's ministry and service. Not jumping on some stage and saying...SAY YES LAWD! Don't get me wrong, I do that and love to do that in the service, but I also do the other and do that first, even when I'm hoarse.

Then look at this, we've got Grammy winning singers and musicians almost everywhere. I want to see the day, where we take that Grammy winnin' set, set up a stage in the heart of a troubled community on a Saturday morning, take turns singing, preaching and witnessing all day until Saturday night and do it regularly without selling tickets, asking for news coverage or any of the other things that come with celebrity. Just do it to serve God. and DON'T collect an offering....uuuhhhoo...That costs money.....

Where we at? We gotta pay da bills...Nothing wrong with that, but I preach hard right now for free and do sing as the Lord gives me utterance--uuhhmm---But when will we really get serious about taking our resource, whatever that resource is, and placing it into souls? Not when the cameras are rolling, but when the tears are flowing...that's what we need and that's what the community needs to see of us.

Enochwalked: Where has the Black Church been on this in the past 10, 20, 30, 40 years? You have been in this longer than me.

Pastor Burnett: Now I ain't that old my brutha...;) but let me show you what I see...

The church has been intoxicated and enamoured with flesh, popularity, seeking cars, houses, boats, prosperity, conference hoppin', following Pastors who are not doing anything for the community or the church but collecting an offering for themselves, getting mortgages that they couldn't afford and callin' it a blessing, comparing their salvation to others so they could have an excuse for weakness, covering each others sins with money and associations, having illicit affairs, emotional upheavals, and total spiritual inconsistencies.

I'm not through...

As my man Melvin at Pulpit Pimps said (regarding T.D. Jakes) they have been "Repositioning themselves further away from God", calling their sins as though they are not what they are, finding new ways to NOT preach the righteousness and holiness of God, seeking singing contracts, becoming motivational speakers, leaving substantive issues at the door, and trying to be as inclusive as possible as not to offend anyone.

I admit, I had elements of some of those things when I started off on my own. I thought being in the crowed was going to build my 10,000 member church. (FYI- I DO NOT have a 10,000 member church) I came to a resolution and conclusion that ONLY God was in control of his church and HE will build it as HE sees fit, and if I wanted to be a part of HIS plan, then all I had to do was take my place and be fit and ready for the Lord's use. I'm glad I made that decision.

Enochwalked: "Can(men of God like us) we turn this around? We may not see it in our lifetime but with the help of God, maybe in our childrens time. I am 37 with 2 sons ages almost 5 and 3 and another due in the spring. I have accepted the fact that my generation is LOST! I am looking to save my children's generation!"

Pastor Burnett: Brother, like Jimmy V said, "Don't ever give up!" and like James Moore sung, "It ain't over until God says it's over." There is great power in standing in the gap, even if you're just one.

Remember Mary and Martha when Jesus came to them in John 11 what did Martha say?

"21-Then said Martha unto Jesus, Lord, if thou hadst been here, my brother had not died."

What did Jesus respond?

"23-Jesus saith unto her, Thy brother shall rise again."

Then Martha does something that many of us do. Put things so far off in the future until we can't hardly see it. She says,

"24-Martha saith unto him, I know that he shall rise again in the resurrection at the last day."

She talks about a blessing that is beyond her present ability. She equates the resolution of things with the end of the world, which was representative of the Jewish thought of "The last day".

But what did Jesus respond?

"25-Jesus said unto her, I am the resurrection, and the life: he that believeth in me, though he were dead, yet shall he live: 26-And whosoever liveth and believeth in me shall never die. Believest thou this?"

He indicated that what she was looking for resided in ONE person, and that person was him. Next thing you know Lazarus was outta that grave and the disciples were taking the "death identity" (grave clothes) off of him.

What am I saying? What we need is in Jesus and what we need is here right now. In order to change the church for us and our children it will take some bold steps taken in the trail of the Master as he guides and leads our steps. It's just gettin good now. The righteous will rise while the sinner is revealed and cast out.

To them that read this, if you're not equipped get the equipment you need, leave small arguments for the small minded and most of all stay tuned and stay on your post wherever you may be.

Blessed!

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The Morality Campaign Against God Pt. 2

As discussed in The Morality Campaign Against God Pt. 1, there is a seething cauldron of growing hatred against both God and Christians in general. The non-theist desires to place the worlds ills at the feet of God and Christianity saying that God is the author of hate and division in the world therefore calling him, his actions and the actions of Christianity's adherents immoral.

Professor Bart D. Ehrman in his book "God’s Problem: How The Bible Fails To Answer Our Most Important Question-Why We Suffer" while not dealing with the morality of man, concluded that suffering is caused due to evil forces in this present world (apocalypticism). He explains how this continues even though prescribed atonement (sacrifice of Jesus) has been made to eliminate it. He concludes by calling the actions and the nature of God into question and poses that God has failed to answer why we suffer and that humans must do whatever is necessary to eliminate their own suffering. In other words Dr. Ehrman calls God’s morality and goodness in dealing with man into question.

What Does It Mean To Be Moral Or Have Morality?

There are many definitions for morality and what it is to be moral. There are both descriptive and normative definitions of the word. There is the theory of "natural law" as it pertains to morality and then there is relative morality, ethical morality and absolute morality out of which objective moral values as referenced by most Christians spring forth, along with the contention that God is the moral law giver.

Then there is a growing field of study in which even monkey's, apes, and dogs are said to have morality. Yep that's right, the atheist hates God so greatly until he is willing to exalt an animal to the status of man before he admits tha there is a God...What a Farce and a TOTAL shame! Click HERE for the truth about Monkey Morality. Yet this is nothing new for individuals throughout history have done this same sort of thing, valuing animals and the creation greater than God and those created in HIS image and likeness.

Romans 1:21-24 & 28 ~ "21-Because that, when thay knew God, they glorified him not but became vain in their imaginations, and their foolish hear was darkened. 22-Professing themselves to be wise, they became fools, 23- And changed the glory of the uncorruptable God into an image made like unto corruptable man, and to birds, and four footed beasts, and creeping things. 24-Wherefore God also gave them up to uncleanness through the lust of their own hearts, to dishonor their own bodies between themselves."

As stated previously Dr. William Lane Craig Has laid out the argument as follows:

1- If God does not exist, objective moral values do not exist.

1. 2- Objective moral values DO exist.
2. 
   
   3- Therefore God exists.
   
4. From Dr. William Lane Craig, "Why I Believe God Exists" as found in Geisler & Hoffman, "Why I Am A Christian: Leading Thinkers Explain Why They Believe" (Grand Rapids Baker Books, 1999)p.75.

Through history, religious thinkers such as Aquinas (1227-1274) have held that morality is known to all those whose behavior is subject to moral judgment, whether or not they know of the revelations of Christianity.

While I gave special attention to that argument in my last post even going so far as to state the following:

• "So the Christian world view already acknowledges that one can be good for goodness sake, but that one cannot be saved or acceptable with God no matter how much good one does or performs"
  

However, I would like to further develop that idea and submit that there is a difference between the moral good of a Christian and the moral good of a sinner.

A Christian springs forth the good that they do because the heart is good and has been changed by the power the Lord. Whereas a sinner does good out of a different set of principles or essential necessities. Though the same or similar characteristics may exist in the life of a Christian and sinner, a Christian has been impacted supernaturally by the God that they serve, therefore the good that the Christian does is unto the glory of God and not merely because it was a good act. So the difference is not necessarily in the "What" of moral behavior the difference is in the "Why" of moral behavior.

John 7:37-38~ "37-In the last day, the great day of the feast, Jesus stood and cried, saying, If any man thirst, let him come unto me and drink. 38-He that believeth on me, as the scripture hath said, out of his belly shall flow rivers of living water."

The Naturalist Solution

Create or try to find some way to genetically account for moral behavior.

The atheist/humanist/naturalist has claimed that God offers no benefit towards morality and moral behaviors. Basically stating that all things being equal, that a sinner can be just as good or moral as any Christian, but as we have noted that argument is a non-starter and a given because we can readily observe sinners doing good things or performing good acts according to natural law. However we cannot find any genetic or natural means whereby a sinner gains those moral values. Why? Because the naturalist only responds in ways that are randomly predetermined by genetic processes and natural selection. Natural selection however is a totally blind process with no regard for outcomes either positive or negative. In other words genetic process does not care or offer a priority of moral good for the individual or society.

To further illustrate the terrible problems associated with this viewpoint, we cannot overlook the comments of one of the leading atheists and proponents of methodological and metaphysical naturalism, who is non other than Oxford Professor and scientist Dr. Richard Dawkins.

When discussing morality in a recent interview with with Justin Brierley on Premier Christian Radio Network Dr. Dawkins said the following about why mankind currently holds that the act of rape is wrong:

• Richard Dawkins: My value judgement itself could come from my evolutionary past.


• Justin: So therefore its just as random as any product of evolution? (Referencing human moral value selection)


• Richard Dawkins: Well, you could say that, but it doesn't in any case, nothing about it makes it more probable that there is anything supernatural.


• Justin: Ok, but ultimately your belief that rape is wrong is as arbitrary as the fact that we've evolved five fingers rather than six?


• Richard Dawkins: You could say that, yeah."
  

Justin then goes on to say this regarding Dawkin’s statements:

"Dawkins is not saying that "rape is ok" – he believes it is wrong from within his evolutionary perspective. However, he does admit that the belief itself is essentially arbitrary given that we could have evolved different morals – and that there can be no overarching moral fact that rape is wrong, as this would suggest values etc. that eclipse his strict naturalism. Of course, not many atheists actually want to admit that this is a logical outworking of naturalism (though it is very hard to deny) and talk all the time as though they are privy to absolute moral facts."

In the naturalistic worldview the definition of morality is solely based on blind chance and what we evolve into. Professor Dawkins agrees that the idea of rape being wrong is an arbitrary product of evolution. In his worldview we evolved to gravitate from rape being an acceptable moral standard. The problem is that Dr. Dawkins cannot account for any of this as he knows that evolutionary process and natural selection are blind and unable to distinguish between moral good and moral bad.

Hold the Phone!

This means that under the naturalist framework, we all would generally accept rape as being ok if only our genes through evolutionary process told us so? This also means that we all could accept murder pedophilia, incest, mutilation, and even eating our children as potential morally equal genetic outcomes of natural selection. Everything is based on random processes.

Devastating Effects

The effects of this type of thinking is enormous and impacting. To draw out it’s conclusions, the criminal then has no responsibility for his/her actions, because genetics become the reason and the need to fulfill criminal behaviors. Free will becomes and illusion shrouded by genetic processes and functions. What was thought to be "freedom of choice" only becomes predetermined genetic responses to stimuli. Moral good and moral bad are merely process of chance and therefore cannot be adequately penalized or rewarded. There is no special good or reward for faithfulness between spouses and no special bad or punishment for infidelity.

It is out of this understanding of natural morality sometimes called "natural law" that homosexuality flourishes. That abortion thrives. That most manias are merely reduced to diverse behaviors. This is the difference between Christian Objective Moral values and the naturalist, relativist or subjectivist value systems which campaign for morality without God. There is no standard of what is called objective morality or any standard of what should be moral obligation.

Additional Scriptural Insight

Judges 21:25 ~ "In those days there was no king in Israel: every man did that which was right in his own eyes."

This scripture is reverberated 3 times within the book of Judges. (Judges 17:6, 18:1, and 21:25) one of the most interesting notes is that this scripture is was inserted at a time when we would not be expected to see any kings in Israel. I’ll explain:

Sampson had been deposed by God from being a Judge in approximately 1050 to 1070 BC. (Judges 16:31) Samuel would later reign as the last Judge/Prophet but a King would not be appointed by god and anointed by Samuel until (1 Sam. 10:1 & 17) l or at least another 13 to 32 years in 1038 BC.

One thing we learn from studying the Kings of Israel is that they were not spiritual restorers or moral leaders of the people. That position was reserved for the Priest and the Prophet whom God would raise up. So 2 questions arise?

1. What king was being referred to?
2. What was the social and moral implications of not having a king?

In my opinion this scripture does not merely reflect a future expectation of Israel, it reflects a current (historical) condition of Israel. The actions of the people were effected because there was no God directed leadership.

So the King being referred to is God himself that had given sign after sign raised up Judge after Judge to help and bless Israel and restore them to fellowship. In essence God was King doing and performing duties of taking care of the nation, but his leadership was not kept before the eyes of the people.

What were the results? Obviously the scripture indicates that the people developed their own brand of morality and their own sense of what was right and wrong by doing "what was right in their own eyes". The story of Micah in Judges 17 is indicative of this problem. Micah wanted a relationship with God but did it his way with a total disregard for the path of the Lord. He hired a pastor (priest) made and ephod and a teraphim and consecrated one of his sons to be priest. (Judges 16:5) His actions would affect a nation as the tribe of Dan would take his items and create a nation that was given to idolatry.

In part this scripture is representative of the morality of man without God or the understanding of God’s moral value system. That man is destined to do what is right in his own eyes and those actions will not be pleasing to God, because they miss the whole point of God’s purpose for relationship with and between man.

A Note On Morality From A Respected Christian Professor

Dr. Craig Bloomberg offered this in response to an atheist website called Debunking Christianity that asked him to address why he was still a Christian. On morality he said the following:

"In fact, if Christians have to wrestle with the problem of evil, so must everyone else. Indeed, we must all wrestle as well with the problem of good. Where do these concepts come from? What makes the most hardened atheist (usually) insist that there is something just plain wrong, perhaps even immoral, with torturing prisoners, abusing children, raping women, and with someone else gratuitously murdering them. The most advanced of apes has never disclosed any awareness of systems of morality, which is why we never arrest and imprison them, even if they kill humans. (We might euthanize them once in awhile, but not as retributive punishment, merely to protect the rest of humanity.) And we certainly don’t condemn multiple-partner animals of being unfaithful to their mates. Mark Twain (no evangelical he!) put it well: "Man is the only animal that blushes, or needs to." Near the end of his life, Darwin admitted he had no satisfying explanation for human moral consciousness and reasoning."

When all is said and done Jesus provides a much better answer to the questions of morality among mankind. Although some have set forth to address the issue saying that morality is based on identity (vis a vis Ayn Rand) identity or self awareness tells us absolutely nothing about morality, objective moral values and what God has done for us through the power of HIS Spirit and sacrifice on the cross of his son Jesus Christ.

Blessed!

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Abortion Issues and Myths

I have received a number of emails and had a number of conversations with people asking for direction as it pertains to abortion and abortion rights. I have had a number of Pastors who are somewhat confused over what is called "Medically Necessary" abortions and more specifically abortions when the Mother's life is in danger. To clarify the United States Supreme Court has said the following :

A "medically necessary abortion"... a professional judgment for the physician that may be exercised in the light of all factors—physical, emotional, psychological, familial and the woman's age-relevant to the well-being of the patient." US Supreme Court 1973.

The questions I have received revolved around 2 things. 1- This definition of "medical necessity" and and 2- permissibility of abortion as it relates to circumstances of rape or incest. These are among the most emotionally debated topics. We must be careful because the atheist and critic states that if we truly value human life we would value it in all circumstances (including rape or incest) and if we value the life of a baby as the result of rape or incest we are condemning the victim to a life of repeated pain by forcing her to carry the product (the child) of such a terrible event. In either case the critic always says, "If God existed and he cared, he wouldn't have let it happen."

As noticed this is a highly emotionally charged issue and one not to be taken lightly.

Who Pays?

First, the Kaiser Family Foundation provides information on how states offer and administer "medically necessary" abortions. You should look up that information to see how things are handled in your state so that you may know how your tax dollars are spent and what to expect as you minister to various individuals with certain medical needs. At Answers.com it is stated that abortion is not among the medical procedures covered by Medicaid, the federally funded, state administered program that provides health care to many poor women.

Under federal law, the so-called "Hyde Amendment" passed in 1976 and amended in 1997, prohibits the use of federal funds for abortion except in cases of rape, incest, or when the life of the pregnant woman is in danger. Some states use their own Medicaid funds to pay for abortions that physicians consider "medically necessary," and a few states fund abortions cases of fetal anomaly or grave physical health danger of the mother. Some private organizations, such as Planned Parenthood, assist low-income women in states with restrictive funding policies by performing abortions for reduced fees. In 1999, less than two-fifths of women with employer-based health insurance were covered for abortion services. Many of those women with gaps in coverages within their primary health plan were prime targets an users of Planned Parenthood services.

Current Trends

The news is that this Holiday Season Planned Parenthood is offering coupons for abortions in Indiana, at 35 of it's clinics across the state. The coupons are for an amount up to $25.00 per request. This is the same Planned Parenthood that is responsible for 20% of the nations abortions per year (1 out of every 5) receives $305.3 Million per year in government funding, has net assets of $952 Million and ended its 2005-2006 fiscal year with a $115 Million surplus.

One thing is for sure, at these numbers and profit margins Planned Parenthood certainly DOESN'T need a Government bailout, bridge loan or anything else.

The facts are that according to John Lofton of WorldNetDaily.com under the regime of President George Bush (The Religious Right & Conservative Republicans-mind you) since 2001 Planned Parenthood has received $2.2 Billion in Federal Funding which was an increase of 67%.

No More Smoke & Mirrors, The Real Facts

To the heart of this post and as not to add additional confusion to the fiasco that we are witnessing, it is interesting to note that only 1% of women in the 2004 survey-based U.S. study became pregnant as a result of rape and 0.5% as a result of incest. These statistics are according to Finer, Lawrence B., Frohwirth, Lori F., Dauphinee, Lindsay A., Singh, Shusheela, & Moore, Ann M. (2005). Reasons U.S. women have abortions: quantative and qualitative perspectives. Perspectives on Sexual and Reproductive Health, 37 (3), 110-8. Retrieved 2006-01-18. This information offers startling insight into the myth that a high representative amount of abortions are due to rape or incest therefore condoning abortion.

To place this in perspective, of the estimated 50,000,000 abortions that have occurred since 1973 only 1.5% were due primarily to rape or incest. This would bring the figure to approximately 750,000 abortions in which the killing of a fetus was decided based on morally subjective terms. As it relates to the black community, assuming the same 1.5% rate of rape and incest, (which may be more or less) the numbers would shrink from 13,000,000 since abortion legalization in 1973 to 195,000. The average number of abortions per day would go from it's current level of 1,450 to approximately 22 per day.

These numbers are of course, hypothetical but they do drive home the point that even IF a person were to allow that abortion is permissible in cases of rape or incest society would be more than significantly less impacted than we are as a result of the current trend within the abortion arena. In fact statistics say that almost half of all unwanted pregnancies occur because of contraceptive failure. In other words frivolous sexual behavior, and a lack of abstinence and self restraint has led to over 25,000,000 abortions by itself within the United States.

"Medically Necessary"

The problem here is clear. There is generally no statistical information kept on "medically necessary" abortions because that area is highly subjective and based on any number of factors as witnessed above. What may be considered "medically necessary" for one individual may not be medically necessary for another. According to the definition, one can abort a normal and healthy fetus if you just feel too old and tired...Statistically speaking there is not a great amount of abortions performed to save the life of a mother either. This is another of the greatest myths that the church must endeavor to debunk. In fact there is a growing number of cases in which the pregnancy or the baby did not cause the mother's death, but hospital and physician error was the culprit. This is called a "medical error". The Report of the Quality Interagency Coordination Task Force (QuIC) to the President, February 2000 stated the following:

"In the Harvard Medical Practices Study of adverse medical events (Leape, 1991), which was based on 30,195 randomly selected records from 51 hospitals in New York State, the researchers found that drug complications represented 19 percent of all adverse events. The researchers concluded that 58 percent of injuries and deaths due to drug reactions were preventable, and 27.6 percent of such complications were due to negligence. According to this study, antimicrobial drugs were the class of agents most commonly associated with adverse drug events. Misuse of antimicrobial drugs not only exposes individual patients to an increased risk of a poor treatment outcome, but also leads to the emergence and spread of drug-resistant microorganisms, which may place other patients and health care workers at risk of infection."

In essence "medically necessary" abortions is a highly subjective subject and there is no set standard by which "medically necessary" reports are made. Secondly, pregnancies arising from rape, and incest are minuscule in comparison to abortions preformed simply because the parent had frivolous sexual practices and failed contraception.

The Right To Live

There is a human factor to these numbers and statistics that must be discussed. When a person IS the statistic it can be devastating to their life and as we see the life of the unborn. I have seen the devastating effects of a child denied a mother's love through what we consider the premature death of the mother. These situations are not to be taken lightly, but that's when the church comes in and why it is important to be a part of a healthy body of believers who will pray and put their money where their mouth is...in their actions and in support of families and children in need.

The church and leaders should teach that all life is valuable. Even the life of the child produced as a result of rape or incest. Only God can heal wounds and the greatest pain could be the greatest gain if placed in the hand of the master of our souls. The atheist and skeptic is right on one hand, If we value life and truly believe that we are created in the image and likeness of God, we must instruct those who have been used and abused to seek shelter in the safety and love of Jesus Christ and not render or offer a retaliation for sin by taking out punishment upon the innocent.

These situations are not easy and according to statistical data, not something that must be dealt with all the time, but the church must be prepared to give an answer and make a difference in all areas of life and living. These are opportunities to teach values and virtues of life that change lives for millions. Values such as forgiveness and mercy are only words until they are placed in action. It is during these times that true Christianity is exemplified. The innocent deserve at least a chance to live and make a difference in this world.

Isaiah 58:10-12 ~ "10-And if thou draw out thy soul to the hungry, and satisfy the afflicted soul; then shall thy light rise in obscurity, and thy darkness as the noonday: 11-And the Lord shall guide thee continually, and satisfy thy soul in drought and make fat thy bones: and thou shalt be like a watered garden, and like a spring of water, whose waters fail not. 12- And they that shall be of thee shall build the old waste places: thou shalt raise up the foundations of many generations; and thou shalt be called, The repairer of the breach, The restorer of paths to dwell in."

On a recent radio show, a young lady called in to complain about my position on abortion in general. She said that society is "bad enough as it is". She then asked, "how would we possibly provide for an extra 50,000,000 people?" That was a sad indicator of our times when individuals would rather use death as a manner of population control and management, giving no heed to all the potential talent, genius, and idealism that this country has sacrificed at the altar of human comforts. This doesn't even address the tax revenues, and jobs that would have been created over the same period of time, the additional funding for the social security "lock box" that Former VP Al Gore spoke of in his stolen election campaign.

To those who have made this terrible mistake, it's now your time to take what may be your greatest pain and place it into God's hand. He will wash and renew you soul, and cause you to live abundantly in HIS sufficient grace.

Psalms 118:17-21~ "17-I shall not die, but live and declare the works of the Lord. 18-The Lord hath chastened me sore: but he hath not given me over unto death. 19-Open to me the gates of righteousness and I will go in unto them, and I will praise the Lord: This gate of the Lord, into which the righteous shall enter. 21-I will praise thee: for thou hast heard me and art become my salvation."

Blessed!

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