Ravi Zacharias, Sexual Addiction, Abuse & Influence Of Ministry

UPDATED 12/31/2020:

Unfortunately, it has been recently revealed and evidenced by diligent research that this man suffered from addiction. After his death in May, a number of allegations of decades old sexual abuse began to surface. We are heartbroken, not so much because of the tarnished reputation of Ravi Zacharias, but because of the wake of destruction and allegations of sexual abuse that have been confirmed. We are not proud in any manner that those who were groomed, used and sexually abused were not given light and council to face their abuser in this life, HOWEVER, they will, somehow face Ravi in judgment and yes, he too, will be judged for the things done in his body and those that have been done wrong, shall be made whole somehow. 

Even in light of that, the rest of this post remains true. I was blessed tremendously by this man's ministry. I am reminded that "to whom much is given, much is required" (Lk12:48). This is an ultimate reminder to HARVEY BURNETT, who writes this blog and conducts a ministry that reaches thousands monthly, to MAKE SURE his anchor holds and that he REPENTS and lives free of sin and in union and in fellowship with Christ. One day, we will ALL give an account for the our deeds. 

2 Corinthians 5:10 ~ For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ; that every one may receive the things done in his body, according to that he hath done, whether it be good or bad.

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Do Atheists Think Things Through?

The facts are that if God does not exist, then sho-nuff (a highly scientific term) Materialistic determinism exists... There is no way around it. 

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Dunamis Open & Serving Through covid 19

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FREEDOM

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The Tragedy Of Bartered Freedom. Janet Mefford & Everett Piper

The broadcast will speak for itself, but we need to ask the question, is American built on being "safe" or being "free"? Collectivism of the Eastern countries we aspire to be like (CHINA) has a totally different focus that we do in our FREE society. Janet Mefford and Everett Piper point out some horrible trades that we have made as Americans during this alleged pandemic.

Janet Mefferd Today · 05 - 05 - 20 - Janet - Mefferd - Today - Everett Piper (1st Amendment) Jeremy Dys (COVID/Churches)

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Upon THIS Rock

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covid 19 vaccine & abortion...What's The Connection?

As the whole world is captivated and held captive by the covid 19 virus, there are a host of scientists, hard at work trying to solve or address the problem by creating a vaccine that can be rolled out to the masses in effort to cure or rid the planet of the disease. Not to be a deliverer of bad news but the fact is that we may never have a vaccine for covid 19, but if not, it certainly won't be for a lack of effort. 

So what does abortion, that liberal pundits hate to hear the sound of about now, and a covid 19 vaccine have in common?

According to an April 17th letter issued by the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) to the US Food & Drug Administration, (see below) it seems that a company named Janssen Pharmaceutical, INC. is in receipt of a contract from the US Dept. Of Health (HHS) to produce a covid 19 vaccine and they are using, of all things, certain cells of aborted babies in the process of vaccine development!

covid vaccine IS people!!!!

From one of my favorite movies featuring the late Charlton Heston, Soylent Green, (I can almost hear him yelling it now) could it be that there is potential that a covid vaccine IS people too???

One would never have guessed in a million years that cells from aborted fetuses would be used in any manner to address the covid 19 crisis, or that the HHS would be in tandem or coordination in any manner with a company promoting such a concept or idea. 

This leads to at least 2 startling and disturbing ethical dilemmas one of which the USCCB lays out and the other I will address here. 

Moral Ethics and Conscience

In their letter to Director Hahn, the USCCB points out:

"It is critically important that Americans have access to a vaccine that is produced ethically: no American should be forced to choose between being vaccinated against this potentially deadly virus and violating his or her conscience. Fortunately, there is no need to use ethically problematic cell lines to produce a COVID vaccine, or any vaccine, as other cell lines or processes that do not involve cells from abortions are available and are regularly being used to produce other vaccines." ~ USCCB 4/17/2020 to the US Food & Drug Administration, Director Hahn

To develop a vaccine derrived from aborted fetus cells is nothing less than abhorrent. However, to unknowingly receive a vaccine or be forced either knowingly or unknowlingly (which is current chatter in many liberal circles right now) to receive a vaccine developed under these circumstances is no less than abhorrent if not down right devilish and evil.

Now, one could argue, that we could take "pain" or "death" of the fetus and it could be used to help others live. Although a twisted argument, I can see how individuals could attempt to make such a case, however, that then leads to a 2nd dilemma that I point out below:

The Commercialization Of Abortion & Aborted Materials

If this idea were to proceed, it would take abortion to a whole new level of shame, murder and degridation even for Western society. Just imagine people aborting babies "for the good of the community" and to "fight dreaded disease all over the word"

Could you imagine Dr Fauci and Dr. Birx delivering the new covid 19 mitigation strategies of Social Distancing, Handwashing & Abortion of the Unborn???

Planned Parenthood, who has billions of dollars in large part due to their abortion services, would be the center of the community and would encourage abortion even more so than they previously did but now, that would be done with the endorsement and blessing of the State...

Could you imagine some of these liberal and socialist Governors that we have seen during this crisis, rise and encourage women all over their respective State to go to the nearest abortion clinic to abort their child so that we can better address the alleged "covid 19 pandemic" and "save the lives of our most vunerable"?

Conclusion

It seems that Janssen Pharmaceuticals along with the HHS, would "commercialize" abortion and violate the conscious of millinons of Americans and billions of individuals around the world and not think twice as long as they can gain a remedy to this dreaded disease. However, are they the only ones, or are they just the one we know? 

Believe me, I want a cure to covid 19 and certainly hold to the strategies of mitigation such as handwashing and social distancing, and the creation of a safe work environment, but there is no way that I endorse the use of cells from aborted babies in the development of a covid 19 vaccine.

One would think after nearly 50 million lives lost to the human disease of abortion since 1972, that there would be no room to think that we can solve or address what we are facing by killing more people, UNLESS one has a globalists agenda and believes that limiting and reducing the number of people on the planet, abortion, and covid 19 go hand in hand. 

Well, sad to say, but I guess some do! Just so happens, I have discussed that in a recent Sunday Night Study HERE

USCCB Letter to US Food & Drug Administration 

Catholic Bishops Letter To US Food & Drug Administration from Pastor Harvey Burnett

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Do Our Governors Know The Bill Of Rights?

Recently Tucker Carlson took the Governor of New Jersey Phil Murphy to task over some of the restrictions issued by his executive order. He claimed that liquor stores remained open because of mental health issues and the empirical evidence of addiction and addiction recovery, but had no answer for what evidence that had been given to address the psychological well being of individuals who have, in essence, been banned from religious services and worship.

This was very telling and based on the responses during this segment, we should ask, Do our Governors actually "know" the Bill of Rights? From this Governor's response, the answer to that question is highly suspect. 

At 11:00  

Carlson: "By what authority did you nullify the Bill of Rights?"

Gov. Murphy: "That's above my pay-grade Tucker, I wasn't thinking of the Bill Of Rights when we did this"

Governor Murphy went on to say that because he had met with and gained approval from a "variety of leaders in the State" meaning religious or faith leaders that his actions had somehow been sanctioned or were allowable.  

At 13:25

Gov. Murphy: "...we have to find a different way to worship"

Carlson: "...Government is not allowed to tell people how to worship...

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A Federal Judge's Order Against The The Erosion Of Personal & Religious Liberty

In the process to mitigate the alleged "pandemic" of covid 19, it seems that the Constitution of the United States has been tabled by many Governors all over over the country, initially, so we were told, to curtail death, but more recently, so we are told, to keep the healthcare system from being overwhelmed. 

Shelter In Place

According to the New Your Times (a news organization I certainly DON'T recommend) "Stay at Home" orders have been issued to an estimated 316 million American citizens in 42 States, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, 3 counties and 9 cities.

Having begun in California, the executive orders, which are allegedly rooted in CDC and Washington DC guidance,  are issued by the Governors in most cases and vary widely. For example, Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer, in a State hard hit by covid 19, recently issued an order prohibiting citizens from traveling to second homes, standing outside too long, and even purchasing specific items, such as paint from hardware stores, contending that the items were "non-essential". In other States such as Mississippi, Kentucky, and even Illinois  in which Governor Pritzker and his colleagues contended that orders to stay home meant prohibitions on attending church or places of religious worship no matter if social distancing guidelines were followed or not. In the case of Illinois and Kentucky, the Governors were so brazen as to suggest that the churches were "non essential" institutions, while, in all cases simultaneously contending that liquor retail establishments were/are"essential". (Even though the same CDC from which they take their guidance states that over 88,000 people die annually of alcohol related illness or excessive use of alcohol.)

Even During A Pandemic, The Free Exercise Of Religion Is Upheld

As I began to speak and write on this issue, I was surprised by the number of practicing Christians who do not know the difference between religious freedom and freedom of worship and why each is vitally important but not necessarily one in the same. This has been quite a controversy, between so called "enlightened" people, both secular and religious, who believe that religious practice is flexible and can be done in any setting.

The fact is that one can actually worship anywhere. That is not a question that needs to be addressed.  What is at question however is the fact that our Constitution guarantees the right of the religious to freely exercise religion no matter the circumstance. That is, We The People are guaranteed the ability to freely carry out the practice of religious belief without restriction. What's more is that the practice or free exercise of religion and tenets of faith, need not meet an intellectual standard or criteria suitable to anyone looking on. Further, it seems that the State does not have a right to regulate how our belief is carried out or to tell the church how to conduct its beliefs.

This is the problem. The Governors, in their zeal to thwart and stop the covid 19 alleged pandemic, from overwhelming our medical systems, went further than their lawful boundaries and, in many cases, usurped their control and authority over religious practice and the free exercise thereof, telling the church not only how to worship, but restricting access as to how and where the free and valid exercise of religion would be carried out while simultaneously not holding secular businesses and industries to the same or similar standard. 

Now, many of our churches sat back and allowed this to happen without a word to the contrary. Truthfully many people from church leaders to lay persons, suffered and died as a result of this dreaded disease, and there is nobody that is favor of that, however, as I have written, what is the price that we have paid as a result of allowing secular leaders to take control of and usurp authority over the church at any time, yet alone times of distress? In the future, what will limit the states power over the church in the event of the "next" crisis?

I'll say more on this in my next article, but the church was only to be subject to "just" law, and law that does not impede liberties given by God and not simply any law. 

A Judge's Eyeopening Decision

A recent Facebook posting by a news group , Unbiased America, caught my attention. Their post outlined the actions of a Federal Judge Justin Walker of Kentucky. Judge Walker ruled, just prior to Easter, in favor of the On Fire Church and against a Kentucky Mayoral directive allegedly enforcing the Governor's stay at home order, which had been constructed to prohibit church worship on the Churches most Holy Day, Easter. In his ruling Judge Walker stated:

"On Holy Thursday, an American mayor criminalized the communal celebration of Easter. That sentence is one that this Court never expected to see outside the pages of a dystopian novel, or perhaps the pages of 'The Onion" 

The Judge went on to say:

"But two days ago, citing the need for social distancing during the current pandemic, Louisville’s Mayor Greg Fischer ordered Christians not to attend Sunday services, even if they remained in their cars to worship – and even though it’s Easter. The Mayor’s decision is stunning. And it is, “beyond all reason, unconstitutional."

Judge Walker concluded by saying:

"But for the men and women of On Fire, Christ’s sacrifice isn’t about the logic of this world. Nor is their Easter Sunday celebration. The reason they will be there for each other and their Lord is the reason they believe He was and is there for us. For them, for all believers, “it isn’t a matter of reason; finally, it’s a matter of love.”

Groups such as First Liberty have been inundated with requests for help during this pandemic from churches seeking to merely continue to freely exercise their religious beliefs against the backdrop of over the top stay at home and anti-religious subversion efforts of State officials.

Conclusion

It seems that, although many have been born and raised within America, that they don't know exactly how the interface of human rights work in conjunction with or in accord with State law, and the desire to keep and maintain a peaceful and safe society. Although covid 19, has presented issues and problems that have never been dealt with before in American society, it seems that  too many people in authority believe that rights can be suspended by the State at any time and without notice, and that religious rights or the essential nature of religious belief is only an illusion.

While the latter sentiments are right in line with the anti-religious extremists, who have not taken the time to consider that human rights only exists as a result of religion, and the Christian religion in particularly, it is saddening to know that the people must continually check, recheck and call into question the actions and directives of their elected secular officials. 

To be clear, noone wants to upbraid the State or anything done to keep us and make us safe in this hour of pandemics, however, we want the State to work within the confines of human rights to address the issues. Not break the law in order to make the law. That is unreasonable.

In my next post, I will present the letter and email that I sent to the Governor of Illinois regarding these things and others. 

Judge Justin Walker's Complete Decision

TRO Granted In covid 19 Kentucky Church Case from Pastor Harvey Burnett

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Resurrection Sunday Night Reflections covid 19, Global Warming & Population Contol

Sunday Night Live

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Resurrection Sunday Morning 2020 ~ That I May Know HIM

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Resurrection Sunday Sunrise Service ~ No Greater Love

Thanks to Fred Hammond & Radical For Christ for our "A" Selection!

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Dr Shiva. Probably THE Most Pertinent covid 19 Expose On The Internet

All I can say is that THIS is AMAZING!

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Passion Week Celebration & Bible Study w/ Pastor Burnett

The Dunamis Word on Youtube

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Paslm Sunday 2020 ~ SAVE NOW!

Upcoming Schedule:

Wednesday April 8th 7:00 PM Facebook Live at In Defense Of The Faith also YOUTUBE LIVE

Easter Sunday April 12th 6:00AM at In Defense Of The Faith

Easter Sunday April 12th 10:30AM CST Personal Facebook Page

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Covid 19. Balance. Are We Still A Free People?

Covid 19 has proven to be a problem of epic proportion to the entire community. On one had, we are dealing with a medical and scientific community examining the virus, studying its progression and trying to understand and apply the best science based methods to overcome it. 

On another we have the governmental authority assessing the financial impact and human value impact of the virus and trying to mitigate its impact on the health and well-being of the community and finally we have the church attempting to gauge its level of involvement, reduce the erosion, even if temporary, of its freedoms and redefine its actions and outreach methods during these perilous times. 

The Medical Professionals 

I would first like to say that The DUNAMIS WORD APPRECIATES all medical professionals, scientists, first responders and Governmental authorities in all the work they are doing in effort to keep our community safe and help us through these trying times! YOU and your families are in our prayers and we believe God that he will grant you strength in your efforts and duties. THANK YOU!!!!

The Church

Secondly, to the church and our fellow believers...while the motivations of many, if not most of us are pure, to those that see this as an opportunity to take advantage of the people, let's get a grip and get it quickly, because Clovid 19, whether one believes it is a "judgement of God or not" is not the only problem on the horizon either for the United States, the world community nor the church. 

The Confusion Crisis

Now, let me just say first, the church has found a way to continue some RIDICULOUS practices even though God is closing certain doors and challenging values and ethics...folk have exalted tithe and offering so high, until some don't care if an individual is sick or not..."drive through" and "curb side" church service featuring..."place the money in the envelope" is horrific!!! Please STOP the madness and get a clue!!! Some are so underwater in church mortgages that it is nearly impossible for them to survive and maintain as a congregation financially if the good ole tithe doesn't come in...so some have resorted to schemes and church gimmicks to help their earthly kingdom survive the covid 19 scare. I could say more but...

OK, Back To Rational Conversation...

First let's be real. People are dieing of covid 19 related illness. Many, more than a few preachers and pastors I know have left here in recent days due to this virus. 

Yet this global crisis has not stopped the church from questioning its place and position and how it is supposed to act during these times.  Yes, clergy...that is GOOD clergy, are ESSENTIAL and are a part of FIRST RESPONSE to any humanitarian crisis. The church is ESSENTIAL to the growth, health and vitality of our community and nation. Both should be honored as such. But as such, clergy should be prepared and realize that they too, are under orders and many of those orders have been established by divine command. 

Titus 3:1 ~ Put them in mind to be subject to principalities and powers, to obey magistrates, to be ready to every good work, 

Romans 13:1 ~ Let every soul be subject unto the higher powers. For there is no power but of God: the powers that be are ordained of God.

A Little Theology

The aforementioned scriptures are often cited in situations of abuse and misuse. Example, how many times have your heard people who criticize the bible contend that these scriptures were scriptures that endorsed slavery or some other form of human or humanitarian abuse? 

However, I would contend that these scriptures were never intended to be used to support abuse, misuse and or subvert human moral values of the individual to the State or any authority. These scriptures were rendered to call the church to the highest levels of service and the highest levels of witness and response to the community and to reaffirm that God was in control of all things, no matter who sat in the seat of power. Those are the lessons of Paul's teaching here and elsewhere. 

How do I know this? Quite simply, Paul teaches that believers should see the Lord through his ministry and observe Christ by his example. They were to follow his example as his example was an example of Christ. (1 Cor. 11:1)...Now, was Christ an abuser of men? Did Christ lead men into abuse and subjugation? Critics level many criticisms and lay a lot of things at Jesus' feet, but I don't believe any rational scholar, or anyone worth his salt, makes the argument with  any success that Jesus was an abuser of men and or mankind or that he led anyone into an abusive situation. In fact an examination of his life demonstrates that he did just the opposite.  

If Paul's reference was Christ, and if Christ was the ultimate example, then how and in what world could Paul possibly be commending abuse or telling people to blindly subject themselves to rules of abuse of an evil ruler, especially if those rules also violated the Law of God? 

The Commission of The State:

In light of the above facts, we should rightfully ask what is the relationship between the rule of God and the power and authority of the State, which only acknowledges God in a cursory or topical manner? Should we simply dumb down to the "godless" State and everything it requests, when we know that the essence of its request do not honor the God we serve? 

Then if we "fight the power", simply because the power is saying something, are we fighting a righteous fight?

It is questions like those and others that led me to write an article on "Covid 19, Freedom & Unalienable Rights. A Mini Civics Lesson & Question"

In that article, I suggest that as a church we should be careful about giving up freedoms and to whom we give those freedoms to. I yet continue to stand by that argument because it is so vitally important, however, when the state and all people are confronted with a crisis, the church should be front and center in helping to mitigate that crisis. 

A REAL First Responder

The CHURCH is not only essential, but it is a FIRST RESPONDER. The condition of the community, state and nation depends upon the response of the church to the people who comprise the state, community and church. 

Matthew 28:19-20 ~ (19)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: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. Amen.

Sadly, the church has undershot its mission, but the original commission of the church was to serve the community and transform the world...to "teach them" to "observe" whatsoever things that Jesus had commanded. This was to be both a natural and spiritual benefit and blessing to the community and the entire world (wherever the church would be found) 

Is the refusal to close the church building, in light of an epidemic which is drastically effecting the community ungodly? It could be, but does it have to be? 

Is the refusal to obey directives of law and policy godly or righteous if it is done to the "glory of God"?  Is the relationship between church and state and who controls what strictly a FIRST Amendment issue? 

I believe that our questions and resultant expressions or responses may be inadequate. There is much more at stake and or at risk than issues of personal freedoms or state impositions upon those freedoms. What covid 19 has done is place a human or life's value issue on the subject in a way that the world really was not ready to explain.  

IS the CHURCH about saving lives as it says and will it respect the rights to save lives as it is commissioned to do? This is the challenge, and I will tell you why: 

Now, for the State, this would be a good, clear and applicable question if ABORTION and ABORTION services, which the state upholds also as a right, were not at issue...You see, having killed over 50 million babies (or so the abortion estimates are since 1972) is not exactly a rallying point for the State to claim that it is attempting to suddenly protect its most vulnerable, or ride on a high horse saying that it really and solely cares about life and its value. 

In other words, the states claim of valuing life can easily and readily be viewed as either hypocritical or at the very least dubious and one that the church should and  could be easily viewed in an ominous manner neither of which make the case for the State that it has an pure interest saving lives.  

There is a new horse in the race and one that cannot be overlooked, although it is being overlooked by extremists on both sides of the issue.

To the critic ready to simply and blindly follow every edict of the state because one misinterprets the scripture to endorse blind allegiance governmental authority simply because it is governmental authority, I would encourage you to pull back and think things through a little more circumspectly, as our real freedoms did not come from the state and cannot be taken away and should not be surrendered to the state at the State's whims for any event and or reason....

Similarly, those of us in the REAL church, must be reminded that our position of glorifying God extends far beyond a building or sanctuary no matter the size and or cost of that building or sanctuary.  

Certainly to close a building is not to be closed to or to exclude God in any way or manner. Neither should our position ever be that the material affects of this existence are, by themselves, worth dissenting over, especially when the truth is that ALL things belong to God. 

In other words, God will commission even the devil to do his bidding. The devil may think he is in control of his actions, and he certainly is, as he exercises his own freewill also, but God yet is in control and provision has already been made for HIS people.

CONCLUSION 

What we know is that many individuals, are leaving this world due to this current pandemic or epidemic of covid 19. Though the numbers of death are not and neither will be extraordinarily high, (as only about 1.4% of them who contract the disease pass away from it) the pace of contagion is astounding, and being that the virus is especially unrelenting within them who are already compromised in their health, covid 19 is somewhat of a fearful disease or illness. 

Closing a church temporarily to mitigate the public and community damage and individual suffering as a result of a pandemic or community crisis, should not be an issue. Our call is much greater than a building and or pews or seats...Much greater than a show or a Sunday morning thrill, is the LIVING WORD which resides on the inside of the individual. 

With that said, we must affirm that the state does not have a right of subjugation of the church. There is no law which allows the church to arbitrarily become the captive of the state. A stand for freedom is in order. Our allegiance is not to blind, nor was it to be used in endorsement of ungodly and anti-biblical moral values and constructs.

So while personal liberties and personal freedoms are good topics and a essential conversations to be had among believers and civic leaders alike, the sure thing is that God is God no matter if covid 19 exists or not and that HE will get the glory and the world to bow to HIS majesty as HE is yet in control of all things. 

We believe God for an outcome much less than the current expectation of over 200,000 lives lost. God is still ABLE to do what he does, and that is turn death away when God's mission and purpose has been fulfilled. 

There's much more to this story than meets the eye I am sure.

Blessed!

UPDATE 4/1/2020

Pastor Rodney Howard-Brown, featured in this article, was recently arrested because he refused to close down his church in light of the "stay at home" order and large group probation issued by State leadership. 

Now I must say that Pastor Howard-Brown has is certainly not unfamiliar with controversy. The founder of the "gold dust" and "gold tooth" movement, Howard-Brown has his issues. Of course this event was met with much controversy especially after the Chief of Police painted the picture that Howard-Brown was not a good citizen and that he had endangered the lives of countless persons in his congregation. 

The facts however, don't match the accusation. According to his Attorney, Liberty Counsel, Pastor Howard-Brown took the following measures to keep congregants safe:  

• Enforced the six-foot distance between family groups in the auditorium as well as the overflow rooms
• All the staff wore gloves
• Every person who entered the church received hand sanitizer
• In the farmer’s market and coffee shop in the lobby, the six-foot distance was enforced with the floor specifically marked (farmer’s markets and produce stands are expressly exempted)
• The church spent $100,000 on a hospital-grade purification system set up throughout the church that provide continuous infectious microbial reduction that is rated to kill microbes, including those in the coronavirus family.

Now, I venture to ask...Does the GROCERY STORE that remains open during this pandemic do any of this? Does the LIQUOR STORE that also remains open during this pandemic DO ANY OF THESE THINGS for the safety of their customers?  

A family need not be separated. to do so is STUPID. Evidently the 6 foot rule was being enforced to whatever degree. The families that came together stayed together. So why the OBTUSE and biased view against the church here? I believe that is because some people have bought into the the concept of communism and don;t really understand what American freedom and liberty is all about. 

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Even In Covid 19 Times, We Are MORE Than Conquerors. Rom. 8:37

As the world is in fear of what is "expected" as a result of this disease, we (Believers) are YET conquerors in all things and the PROMISE of God historically is for us today. 

Join me as I expound on this topic and more regarding our current state of affairs or condition. Welcome to The Dunamis Word! 

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Presiding Bishop's Call To "Global Fasting & Intercessory Prayer"

As many in the public, as well as church leaders, continue to die from covid 19 infection, and now even some pastors and religious leaders fined or put in jail because of their conduct in violating orders of local, State and Federal leaders, recently Bishop Charles E Blake, Presiding Bishop of the Church Of God In Christ, spoke to the members of COGIC and believers everywhere regarding covid 19 calling us to observe a day of Global Fasting & Intercessory Prayer".

This is what he said and wrote:

The Bishop's Letter To The Church and believers everywhere:

Global Call To Fasting & Prayer -Bishop Charles E Blake from Pastor Harvey Burnett

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Covid 19 ~ Can You Discern The Time?

In a recent Facebook Live Session, I took the time to address the current Covid 19 crisis and the church. Please feel free to respond with your commentary and questions as well. 

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Where Are Our Prayers In Tragedy?

The Dunamis Word joins in mourning and prayers for the families who have suffered loss in the wake of the tragic helicopter crash that took place Sunday morning Jan. 26th, 2020. 

Most notably, NBA Legend Kobe Bryant and his beautiful daughter Gianna were unfortunately taken away from this present world, leaving Kobe's wife Vanessa, oldest daughter Natalia, and younger daughters Bianka, and Capri. 

In all 9 people lost their lives in this event, including Sarah Chester and her daughter Payton who was Gianna's team mate, legendary Orange Coast College Head Baseball Coach John Altobelli, his wife Keri and their daughter Alyssa who was also Gianna's team mate, Christina Mauser who was an assistant girls bball coach at an Orange County private k-8 school and experienced and well liked pilot Ara Zobayan.

Transition To Prayer

Like in many issues, the church world seems to be stuck between radical spirituality and interpersonal humanity. Many people I have read and listened to are confused between judgement, comfort and reconciliation. ie: they don't know how to interpret either Kobe's death or what they should do in response to it. 

Why Can't The Church Simply Be The Church? 

During his career, on Sundays it was time for Kobe to work. He did his job in the NBA for 20 years, delivering and giving his best through good and bad times. He died doing a fatherly duty. Loving his daughter who had expressed her desire to become a basketball player like her Dad, and pouring all the information and knowledge

he had into her life.

See, it seems that everybody is doing their job! 

However, I have just been amazed at how it seems the church has forgotten or lost sight of its job or duty to the world and especially its duty to the community in light of and in response to tragedy. There are people claiming that all talk about Kobe and his family and career is nothing more than idolatry, while others basically claim that Kobe didn't live for God therefore is not worthy of the church's attention (paraphrasing from a conglomeration of very weird and spiritually insensitive posts, I've read)

All of this caused me to place a post on my Facebook addressing the issue from what I believe is a more balanced, biblically centered and human moral value perspective. 

Don;t get me wrong, tragic events occur in our communities everyday, but nowhere do I see God withholding his goodness because of who people "are" as the sun and blessings shine and fall upon the just as well as the unjust. In all actuality if this horrific event never happened, there is enough to pray for and about.

Please excuse my apparent anger but HERE is the post and this is what I said:

"Never seen so many hate filled, insensitive, biblically illiterate and devoid of the nature of God church folk in my life...don't like it? SWIPE UP NOW!!!

Confused...In death we want to examine judgement which is reserved for God himself. Ooh yes, we can be sure that all them that live for God and who are able to display such love will do so. Every tree bears some sort of fruit or nothing at all...so don't be confused about what I am saying however, Fact is SOME of us who "look" or "appear" like we know HIM outwardly really don't know or love HIM inwardly...and the proof is in the pudding or lifestyle lived.

I don't know what Kobe did. Whether he had a confession of faith or not. Whether he called on Jesus for Salvation or not. I didn't know him personally nor did he write me to share..That one is not my call when he can't respond to me one way or another...

However, I can know and do what I am commissioned to do for ALL men, whether they are believers or not...we can COMFORT the living:

Romans 12:15-Rejoice with them that do rejoice, and weep with them that weep

"them that weep" NOT "church folk who meet your approval"...further "them" is EVERYONE...one likes to be with them that rejoice, but what of them that weep? Where is your part with them who need comfort?

Here we have a mother ripped from her daughter and husband. Allegedly another mother ripped from her husband and daughter and a father and husband that also lost his wife and daughter...how insensitive can you be to criticize the prayers of the righteous offered for them that remain?

Then some are fighting a battle of righteous indignation and judgement when we should be constructing a covering. Some simply don't know what time it is and don't care what time it is. All you know is what you "think" you know.

But as BELIEVERS we should know the time and be aware if it. What does the WORD say?

Ecc. 3:1-8 - 1 To every thing there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven: 2 A time to be born, and a time to die; a time to plant, and a time to pluck up that which is planted; 3 A time to kill, and a time to heal; a time to break down, and a time to build up; 4 A time to weep, and a time to laugh; a time to mourn, and a time to dance; 5 A time to cast away stones, and a time to gather stones together; a time to embrace, and a time to refrain from embracing; 6 A time to get, and a time to lose; a time to keep, and a time to cast away; 7 A time to rend, and a time to sew; a time to keep silence, and a time to speak; 8 A time to love, and a time to hate; a time of war, and a time of peace.

And sorry, but I say some of you critics don't know the nature of God either. How and why do I say that? Because you seem to be unaware that HE is a God of comfort...

2 Cor. 1:3-4 - 3-Blessed be God, even the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies, and the God of all comfort; 4- Who comforteth us in all our tribulation, that we may be able to comfort them which are in any trouble, by the comfort wherewith we ourselves are comforted of God.

So you mean to tell me that we should be selective of whom we comfort in tribulation? Or that tribulation is only something us "church folk" can experience?

Then answer this...to whom do you preach a message of salvation? To them already saved? Or to them lost and in need of help and direction?

Then, as if it is a mark of superior wit, you ask why didn't we pray for Billy who lost his aunt? (insert your own hypothetical) Was it because we didn't or don't care? Or could it be because neither Billy nor his aunt (God bless her soul) was known by us? Or maybe he nor she was ever a part of our family or household celebrations? Might it be that Kobe was there with our family working as he was paid to do on holidays, most Sundays after church and many other times?

See, we're not God. We can only pray for who we know and for those brought to our attention.

So stop with the comparison nonsense..."we pray for Kobe because he is popular"...PLEASE! We pray for the survivors and community because we and they all need it!

Know this, the devil is the ONLY one who will make you feel bad about praying for anybody...Why? Scripture is clear:

Luke 18:1 - And he spake a parable unto them to this end, that men ought always to pray, and not to faint;

Pray that men will understand that death and it's progenitor, sin, is an enemy to ALL men. As a Father and also a coach of my daughter, I pray for the wife, their babies/children who must now live apart from their husband and father. I pray that the many families, school class mates, team members, parents, grand parents and extended family members will be lifted from the bout of confusion, depression, and utter hopelessness that will come as a result of this tragic event and mental trauma.

In short, I pray that people come to DISPLAY the bible and the real sense of humankind of which the bible consists more than the memorized quotes from the bible. I am afraid that one can quote the bible all day and not know a word it says.

Sad, because in tragedy that's when we are to shine...

Matt. 5:16- Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven"

 My prayer is certainly for the loved ones dealing with this tragedy both now and in their futures. Kids, who's routines are suddenly changed forever. Parents who's world has been turned upside down by loss. It's OUR turn now, to heal the scars and turn ashes into beauty. It is our job to communicate that death, is NOT the ultimate and final abode, but one day even it will be destroyed and that those of us who love him walk through death into new life.

We pray that these and all the communities and families effected will be ministered to now. Upheld. Carried by God through his vehicle the church and placed safely on solid ground.

I certainly understand this as I will share my experience in a future podcast, but I want it on record that the Dunamis word responds by taking this pain and tragedy to God in prayer. HE HEARS!

Blessed 

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Hip-Hop, Idolatry & The Church Pt. 30 ~ Has G Craig Lewis Gone Off The Rails?

Now, I've long known that some of the biblical teaching of G Craig Lewis, is highly suspect as I have pointed out. However, it seems that a false biblical understanding has led to an allegedly lascivious and "movie star" lifestyle for the one who has not only condemned such living, but also claimed that nearly everyone that doesn't agree with him regarding the individual's that he criticizes are devils.

Yes, biblical exposition is "part" of the problem. Telling women to stay home and have babies and quit their jobs and even stay in abusive relationships by telling them to "Duck" when they are being assaulted, is more than enough to choke a horse, but in this case, G Craig's issues, are allegedly well beyond biblical exposition. 

HIS Word HIS Way, Pastor Saiko Woods

Seemingly, what started as an innocuous examination of truth has led to the receipt of multiple testimonies alleging that the conduct of Lewis is anything but biblical, godly or in line with his very own teachings. 

In multiple videos and Facebook posts, Pastor Woods takes the time to meticulously outline and examine the alleged acts of G Craig Lewis revealing a sordid tale of what can only be described as "EX Ministries Gone Wild"!

As for me, I don't have to speak in an "alleged" fashion. My dealings with Mr. Lewis go back to 2009 and memories are anything but fond of his ungodly character and demeanor, and desire to control those around him. In fact, in my opinion, at the time he was much, if not all of the things he was preaching against and about, which is something we did not know until after he was here. Nevertheless, I digress... 

At this point, I can only pray that souls will be restored as a result of the fallout, as it has allegedly already begun both in and out of his church Adamant Believers Council (ABC Church) of Grand Prairie, TX. and his para-ministry, EX Ministries. Hopefully this will not totally negate the valuable work that has been contributed over the years, however, there is no room and or excuse for ABUSE, physical, psychological or spiritual or in any form yet alone within the context of the church. 

One thing is certain, God has the last word in all things and in the end, HE will speak. I believe he is speaking now as NO FLESH will glory in HIS presence! (1 Cor. 1:29)

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The Urban Cure's Open Letter To Chick-fil-A

And we, The Dunamis Word, The New Bethel COGIC & I Am My Brother's Keeper Christian Advocacy Council do indeed say AMEN!

The Urban Cure's Open Letter To Chick-fil-A from Pastor Harvey Burnett

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The Real Duty Of The Preacher

There are so many demands upon the modern day minister. Often the local pastor is not only the pastor of his church, he is also a community activist/leader, business person, social and political lobbyist, mentor, Councillor, community event coordinator, political liaison and a host of other things...

Life is very complex and the people and situations that ministers serve are very complex as well. 

There is a wrangling to position one's self for service in a place where one can get the most done and reach the most. There is nearly always a reconciliation of what remains, vs. what has left. All of this adds up to pressure to conform, modernize, change and be what the flavor of the world may want. 

It is often easy to forget that the main things are the plain things. Might I remind you of the words of Paul to Timothy, a young Bishop, early in his service to the Lord:

2 Timothy 4:1-5 ~ 1-I charge thee therefore before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ, who shall judge the quick and the dead at his appearing and his kingdom; 2-Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine. 3-For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears; 4-And they shall turn away their ears from the truth, and shall be turned unto fables. 5-But watch thou in all things, endure afflictions, do the work of an evangelist, make full proof of thy ministry.

The Charge:

In the scripture, Paul used the word διαμαρτύρομαι (diamarturomai) is a verb which emphasizes a solemn call or sober, sound, and clear declaration in commitment for service. In other words, a "charge" was to be both given and received with singular and serious hearted dedication and commitment.

PREACH THE WORD

Out of all the things that Paul could have commanded that Timothy take heed to and perform, the preaching of "the word" was at the top of the list. Interestingly, Paul did not commission the preacher to do anything that did not center around that act.

Paul did not tell Timothy to build large buildings, nor did he tell him to wear fine clothes, nor did he encourage him to seek or find social and political status, nor did he tell him to seek to be known in secular observance or to even seek veneration at the street corner or be known for "spiritual" things. 

However, Paul commissioned, Timothy to PREACH THE WORD. Without doubt, it is this word that was able to save men's souls and make them clan as Jesus said in John. 15:3. After his encounter with the risen Christ, Paul said to the Roman church that he was not "ashamed" of the gospel of Jesus Christ for it is the "power of God unto salvation" (Rom. 1:16) Prior to this, the Psalmist said that God had exalted his WORD above all his name (138:2), John shores it up by saying it was the WORD that was there in the beginning (Jn. 1:1), and that that WORD was made flesh (Jn. 1:14), dwelt among us and healed us from our sickness, diseases and sins. 

POSITION, TITLE & SOCIETAL STATUS. 

Out of all the things that can be known, I don't think it is not hidden that the church leaders have decided to venerate everything BUT the PREACHING OF THE WORD. Ooh, don't get me wrong...we have some homiletic dynamos...Some people who can tickle the walls with such a silvery tongue and talk all of your troubles away with a spiritually dynamic display of self contrived promises. Their very presence has been said to make some feel better...

I remember years ago, when the late Rev. Ike, was yet alive (who is venerated in many circles today for his lavish, prosperity centered gospel message) a woman said that she was sick. As she gave her testimony of her healing, she explained how she had taken one of his old publications (as his church group had at least a monthly magazine that was published and sold to the members and general public) according to her, all she had to do was rip the magazines apart and spread the loose pages all over her body. When that was done, she declared that her sickness began to leave her body and that she was instantaneously healed of her "illness".

The GOSPEL or the WORD not necessary, except for in an incidental manner, in which the pages "may" have had scriptures written on them. However the focus was that this MAN had done the work...

Yes, that is silly and certainly displays spiritual delusion and manipulation, by a minister who lived enough to promote that one could not "loose, with the stuff he used"...But this charge, as ugly as it was, had nothing to do with God, even if at one time it may have had everything to do with him. 

Some feel that a new position and or title, is the key. It is that title and or position that somehow opens the spiritual gates and lets demons and other human beings know that they have arrived.

I guess what I am saying is that God's mission, work and calling takes diligent observance. It cannot be shrugged off when one experiences a certain amount of disappointment or success. It must be sought with a singular minded acceptance.

ASK THE QUESTION AGAIN

With all of that said, we must ask the question again, did God call us to build fancy buildings and be, for a lack of a better description, business men in suits, clergy collars and robes?

Certainly the church must conduct business, but did God call the Bishop, and or minister to commit themselves to be a social media manager, or status or relationship agent? Taking a look at many of our churches that is what one would think. So many smiling faces, encouraging one another to connect with one another, but very little encouragement to connect with God. 

SEDUCED

The minister, in may cases, has been seduced by accolade of the world and even more so by accolade of the church. Some only seek the accolade of them in the pews. Being the center of attention is the key for many. Just as satan tempted Jesus in the wilderness, with "fame" and self affirmation, many of the nation's largest and even not so large pulpits have fallen to the scheme of the enemy, and have relegated themselves to being an enemy of God.

For instance, who seeks to consecrate as Bishops them who have raped, pillaged the poor, or lived a life of debauchery, adultery and misfeasance while in office, except those that either love sin or have no sense of duty to preserve the church, or Saints of God?

Who is it that will take a moment to question the safety of the children and fidelity of families by recommending the installation of pedophiles, except they also are those who are full of lies and subversion themselves?

For a person, to take an instance and persuade themselves that their actions are simply right without any guide or guidance from scripture, is a person who has lost any similitude of the importance of the charge of God in ministry and or in HIS church.

JUDGEMENT THE GREAT EQUALIZER

Jer. 17:10 ~ I the LORD search the heart, I try the reins, even to give every man according to his ways, and according to the fruit of his doings.

Of a certainty, there is and will be judgement. Further, when the church is delivered to and driven by them who have cursed God with their life and lifestyle, that church is either under judgement because of its continued backsliding, or has totally turned its back on the truth of the word with no or very little hope of return. 

One thing we find in the Old Testament, is a God that would use the enemy to exact judgment as punishment towards God's people. Because of their consistent sins, the people were sometimes delivered to the rule of evil nations and hard taskmasters. 

When leaders, consecrate and appoint ungodly leaders, it is certainly a sign of the judgement of God and the apostasy of the leadership.

Although I can call the name of organizations who have appointed the ungodly to rule, I can also point to organizations who have also appointed the ungodly adulterer, drug user, financial abuser and a list of other characters to rule or exact judgment over God's people as if nothing was ever wrong. 

What the people want and what God wants is often if not exclusively at odds. In other words, God's heart is certainly not the heart of men. SO when the people are satisfied with sin, they have shown God they are not satisfied with HIM. 

Therefore, it is a wonder that God entertains the thoughts and actions of the modern church in any manner. It is that church that continues to choose Barabbas, rather than Jesus!  

Conclusion:

When the church has lost its way in the high weeds of flesh, self relevance and worldly acceptance, there is yet a cure and a way out...

Revelation 2:5 ~ Remember therefore from whence thou art fallen, and repent, and do the first works; or else I will come unto thee quickly, and will remove thy candlestick out of his place, except thou repent.

REPENTANCE is in order! It is that ability to assess one's failure, and realign one's self with the true vision of Christ that is in order. As John preached, "The Kingdom of Heaven is at hand"!

When the world views the church as a bunch of people with the same ungodliness and practices of sin that it has, the candlestick has been removed. There is no light by which men can see truth and God.

When secular rappers can come into the church, make millions, and make no commitment to Christ, the candlestick has been removed. No matter how many crowds there may be or how much the edifice may have cost...if God is not there, and if the integrity of the calling of God is lost, then there is nothing redemptive, nothing salvific, and if there is nothing to save, what are we really doing?

So the call is really to them who believe that they have been called...REPENT...HUMBLE YOURSELF and commit to the REAL charge of brooding over the word of God, seeking it daily and in all things for guidance and spiritual direction. 

The REAL DUTY or obligation of the preacher, is to preserve HIS church, through the faithful preaching and unfettered teaching of the WORD of God. No godly, called minister of the gospel has a higher duty or obligation than to stand in the holy place of God and deliver HIS council to the people. It is that council that saves the lost from their sins, heals the sick of their diseases, comforts the downtrodden, and builds up the Kingdom of God. That is how families are changed, sons are saved and daughters brought back home.

A charge to keep I have,
A God to glorify,
A never-dying soul to save,
And fit it for the sky.
To serve the present age,
My calling to fulfill:
Oh, may it all my pow’rs engage
To do my Master’s will!
Arm me with jealous care,
As in Thy sight to live;
And O Thy servant, Lord, prepare
A strict account to give!
Help me to watch and pray,
And on Thyself rely,
Assured, if I my trust betray,
I shall forever die.

1762 as inspired by Charles Wesley from Lev. 8:35...

I'm prepared to keep my charge. How about you?

Blessed! 

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MAGA: TI, "When Was America Great"?

The political climate of America is so sick right now, I hardly know where to begin. We have political candidates asserting that the Constitution of the United States needs to be done away with...We have whole news organizations (CNN) dedicating all of their time to liberal left political ideology and propaganda, we have leaders promising monthly check for all Americans and then calling themselves "mathematicians" and, on top of all that, we have a President who announces America's political and social and even military positions by Twitter of all things...

WHAT A MESS!!!!

Then, we have REVOLT! An event supposedly organized by Blacks, funded by Whites, (AT&T, probably doesn't have more Black stockholders than White ones for sure)  This was a forum seemingly heard all around the world featuring an assortment of Black liberals and conservatives. Some more popular than others to make public statements about the divide in the Black community over White Supremacy, American nationalism, and social justice and equality. 

In an exchange that seemingly got all the juices flowing renowned rap start TI also know as TIP on some occasions (whenever that alter ego kicks in to deal with certain things) asked Candice Owens, who has been accused of being a "Trump supporter" like many of us who have come off the democrat plantation to think for ourselves, "When was America Great?" as if to ask since President Trump is saying "Make America Great Again", what period of time would he be referring to?

Now, this is tricky because most people look for an era or a period of time in which America was "Great" for everybody within America. However, no such fiction exists. I would also say, if it doesn't exist within America, it certainly doesn't exist in any other country or nation on this earth, because all nations are filled with troubling past and history. So the utopia DOES NOT exist. However, TI in his zeal to flesh out sentiment against Trump was adamant to know how is America going to be MAGA and when was it ever MAGA to begin with which I believe is liberalism run amuck. 

Though Candace was a little taken back by the response of the audience and the treatment she received, immediately I had an answer for TI without question that I wish I could have said it right there on the stage. What amazes me is the very fact that Black folk could gather under a White owned and controlled corporate banner, AT&T, receive a stage to boost personal popularity and success, and deride White folk for being racist and White Supremacists, was clear fodder simply waiting to be devoured...but more than that, every one of those fine Black people on stage had come through a process in life where their very material success was directly connected to not only their personal efforts, but the efforts of White people from all parts of the country and even the world. I'll speak more on this as this is what I said:

"Now in this so called "REVOLT SUMMIT" sponsored by ATT through PDiddy (ATT need to save Direct TV instead of doing summits) TI asked, "during what period was America great?" As if this was some great startling moment...Candace Owens drove a message, but what she should have said was this...

"America was great when your Black behind got that first $500,000 check and took it to the bank and when you bought your first Bentley or first multi-million dollar home! America was great when you look at your bank account and set all your TI bills to autopay and don't have to miss a thang!!!! America was/is great when YOUR material success was delivered to you not just by Blacks, because truth is we don't pay a lot for music, but by the WHITE folk that promote you, and give you a chance to be this rich and successful mogul that you "said" that you are on this stage.

For you to question when America was/is Great and how it is great, is to question yourself, everything you do, and everything you have become or think you are because no single community has done for you what you think you've done for yourself.

To ask the question is like a 2 month old baby standing on his mother's lap and slapping her in the face and claiming, "you don't know what to do with a baby"...that baby hasn't done a thing for himself...somebody else has contributed to everything he is, has, and does and only displays ignorance and arrogance with the accusation.

Since you like to smoke...smoke that TI...to da nub!"

Don't put me on the REVOLT stage...it would proly be a real REVOLT!!!!"

The critic asserts that TI and others are somehow self-made people and that Whites aren't responsible for their material success. However, even if the most conservative numbers are used, it is White folk, by far and large that are responsible for financially supporting TI and many other Black artists. The music industry itself is supported and owned by companies controlled mostly by White individuals. Then consider publishing and distribution. This is nearly exclusively White controlled and owned. 

In other words, without green dollars delivered by White people, we would not hear of TI and many other Black artists. He and many of them would have a work a day job just like the rest of us. In addition, many of our leading artists realize that there are more talented individuals out there, but they received some type of break or opportunity themselves and in many cases, those breaks were given by White people and or organizations. 

What is the message...Like Killer Mike said of the era or reconstruction, America is GREAT when we all learn to work along with one another!

America WAS great and various periods of time during American history and I agree we need to MAKE AMERICA GREAT AGAIN as a whole, but if it never arrives, I KNOW I would not enjoy the success that I do enjoy in any other country in the world...No COMMUNISM did not afford, neither will it afford me this opportunity to speak freely and hold and share my personal beliefs and values. Neither is only one race of people responsible for any of my material success...So yes, lets MAGA!!!!

Blessed! 

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