Pimpin Ain’t Easy: The New Face of the Black Church

“We’re not just a church, we’re an international corporation. We’re not just a bumbling bunch of preachers who can’t talk and all we’re doing is baptizing babies. I deal with the White House. I deal with Tony Blair. I deal with presidents around this world. I pastor a multimillion-dollar congregation. You’ve got to put me on a different scale than the little Black preacher sitting over there that’s supposed to be just getting by because the people are suffering.” Bishop Eddie Long, New Birth Missionary Church, August 2005.

The sad thing is, he’s right.

Today’s New Black Church is the offspring of the civil rights era but can easily be identified by its debatable and sometimes laughable theology, superficiality, greed, materialism, heavy involvement in politics, tricked-out arena sized church, ten thousand or more member congregation and of course, its superstar pastor. 

Plainly put, today’s Black church is not your grandma’s church.

No longer content with selling baked goods and holding parking lot sales that bring in few dollars, today’s New Black Church hosts revivals that cater to thousands and produce blockbuster movies that bring in millions. From old school nurses boards to new school communications director’s, the New Black Church now employs hundreds of full time professionals each year and looks more like a Fortune 500 company, than the little Black church that’s only “baptizing babies.”  Refusing to be courted by politicians during the election season only, the New Black Church has cut out the middleman and has become a force to be reckoned with by dealing directly with the White House.

Having descended from being the visionary voice and leader for millions of Black Christians, the New Black Church has reached out and made new and bold alliances, most notably the newfound love between today’s Black pastors and President Bush.

After being cajoled by controversial conservative Lou Sheldon, dozens of superstar Black pastors declared their support for President Bush's Faith-Based Initiative at a special summit of Black religious leaders in Los Angeles last February.  At that meeting, they chose Lou Sheldon, a white religious conservative leader to speak on their behalf, even though they were Black pastors who had assembled at a Black church in Los Angeles to talk about messaging to Black people.

Understanding the weakness of today’s superstar pastors, that being greed, President Bush’s Faith Based Initiative has successfully solicited and co-opted Black pastors. He has single handedly paved the way for the wooing of Blacks over to the GOP camp under the guise of protecting marriage, allowing prayer in schools and eliminating abortions for women, creating a moral panic within Black America.

Today’s New Black Church has become a pimp for Bush’s agenda for Blacks.

Yet, however blatant Long’s comments are, they, like many other superstar pastors comments and actions continue to go unchallenged by the rest of Black America.

“…But I do think that the vote is up for grabs in a way that it has not been traditionally. And so, we have often suffered from the Democratic Party, who assumed that they had our vote, and the Republican Party, who assumed that they couldn't get our vote,” Bishop T.D. Jakes on CNN’s Paula Zahn Now, February 2005.

With an obvious zeal for the Republican Party, Bishop T.D. Jakes’ comments perfectly illustrate the severity of the crisis in the New Black Church. 

Obviously fearful of losing the support of the New Black Church, Black Democratic officials and civil rights leaders continue to be silent on this issue and have offered no opposition to the New Black Church.

Meanwhile, Bush continues to refuse to meet with Black civil rights leaders, but has met with the superstar pastors on more than one occasion.

Having conquered the media, entertainment arena and now the White House, superstar pastors are poising themselves for their greatest challenge yet, running for political office. With the right support, timing and enough money to back a successful campaign, it’s not that far fetched of an idea to see a superstar pastor catapult themselves into public office, on the GOP ticket.

In February, civil rights activist Reverend Jesse Jackson while speaking at Tavis Smiley’s State of the Black Union held at Long’s church in Atlanta, cautioned Black pastors to not be distracted by “non budget, private morality issues.” 

Millions of Blacks were duped into voting for a president that used “non budget, private morality issues” to distract an entire community from the issues that affect the lives of all Blacks like access to healthcare, education, employment, eradicating HIV/AIDS and protecting Social and Security.

Black leaders need to return from their vacations and address this issue head on with the New Black Church lest we see a repeat of the 2004 Presidential election in 2008.

Comments

[JAY]

Ephesians 4

1I therefore, the prisoner of the Lord, beseech you that ye walk worthy of the vocation wherewith ye are called,

2With all lowliness and meekness, with longsuffering, forbearing one another in love;

3Endeavouring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.

4There is one body, and one Spirit, even as ye are called in one hope of your calling;

5One Lord, one faith, one baptism,

6One God and Father of all, who is above all, and through all, and in you all.

7But unto every one of us is given grace according to the measure of the gift of Christ.

8Wherefore he saith, When he ascended up on high, he led captivity captive, and gave gifts unto men.

9(Now that he ascended, what is it but that he also descended first into the lower parts of the earth?

10He that descended is the same also that ascended up far above all heavens, that he might fill all things.)

11And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers;

12For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ:

13Till we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ:

14That we henceforth be no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men, and cunning craftiness, whereby they lie in wait to deceive;

15But speaking the truth in love, may grow up into him in all things, which is the head, even Christ:

16From whom the whole body fitly joined together and compacted by that which every joint supplieth, according to the effectual working in the measure of every part, maketh increase of the body unto the edifying of itself in love.

17This I say therefore, and testify in the Lord, that ye henceforth walk not as other Gentiles walk, in the vanity of their mind,

18Having the understanding darkened, being alienated from the life of God through the ignorance that is in them, because of the blindness of their heart:

19Who being past feeling have given themselves over unto lasciviousness, to work all uncleanness with greediness.

20But ye have not so learned Christ;

21If so be that ye have heard him, and have been taught by him, as the truth is in Jesus:

22That ye put off concerning the former conversation the old man, which is corrupt according to the deceitful lusts;

23And be renewed in the spirit of your mind;

24And that ye put on the new man, which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness.

25Wherefore putting away lying, speak every man truth with his neighbour: for we are members one of another.

26Be ye angry, and sin not: let not the sun go down upon your wrath:

27Neither give place to the devil.

28Let him that stole steal no more: but rather let him labour, working with his hands the thing which is good, that he may have to give to him that needeth.

29Let no corrupt communication proceed out of your mouth, but that which is good to the use of edifying, that it may minister grace unto the hearers.

30And grieve not the holy Spirit of God, whereby ye are sealed unto the day of redemption.

31Let all bitterness, and wrath, and anger, and clamour, and evil speaking, be put away from you, with all malice:

32And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ's sake hath forgiven you.

If you have any doubt in your heart that Jesus paid the price for you.

If your living contrary to what you know is right in the eyes of God, all is sin, you cant kick against the pricks.

If you know that you are not where you know you should be with God.

If you want to know the power of God, with the evidence of speaking in other tongues.

or, if you dont have a church home.

Please repeat this prayer:

Lord God, you said in your word that your faithful and just to forgive us for all unrighteousness, we confess our sins and we repent in Jesus name.

We accept the call to transform our minds, and we no longer subscribe to the things of the world, nor the lust of our own flesh that causes man to fall short.

We need your power Master, for we are weak in our own abilities, and are open to the Holy Spirit.

Let your will be done in our lives, use us as vessels to be a blessing to others.

We renounce the hidden things of our heart, and will live transparent, a light on the table in a dark and confused world, to glorify you in everything we do.

Have your way Father.

In Jesus name we pray

Amen

[Jay]

Lets not loose focus that we all are human, we have strengths and weaknesses, that is why the Grace of God is so good to all that believe.

The word says: Seek you first!

but he also calls us to be good stewards, what is the need for a 300,000 dollar car, when a 40,000 does the same thing?

How many families that suffer the reality of poverty 300,000 can lift out?

Look at every street in your city, the depressed, mentally disturbed, homeless, hopeless individuals that liter the streets, how many drug infested communities, without youth or elder activity centers, where are the real compassionate people, that rack in millions of dollars every year, that pays for the 5000 dollar suits, and 700 dollar shoes.

Why is it, that volunteers are needed when the budget reaches record numbers, and the church understands that many of those volunteering can use the financial help that would come from a salary, or a reverse offering.

WWJD? Jesus showed us the way as Christians, he said worry not about tomorrow for tomorrow will worry about itself, and store not up on earth what man breaks in and steal and moths and rust destroy.

He fed the poor, clothed the naked, visited the widows, healed the sick, raised the dead, and cast out devils.

Are we to immulate Christ who was rich that became poor, who died amongst thieves, and criminals that we may be saved, who encouraged us to love our neighbors as ourselves, or should be look to our pastor, dr. bishop, rev etc. as examples to gain access to the American dream that excaped many of us thoughout the years?

Jesus admonished a young man that was rich, that had not transgressed against the law, to sell all that he had and give it to the poor.

Let me say this: I dont believe that having money is a problem, but the love of money is a problem, but how does one gage his relationship with it, if he/she is never put to the test? If you dont come out of your pocket with little to help the helpless, the chances of you giving it all for that cause is almost impossible.

See folks its all according to whom you believe, the bible says this, and you will often hear that. WHOM DO YOU BELIEVE.

There is no gate in Isreal called the Eye of a Needle, so what did God mean, when he said "it is harder for a rich man to enter heaven then for a camel to go through one?"

WHOM DO YOU BELIEVE? You dont have to slander anyone, you dont have to bust anyone out, you dont even have to expose people you disagree with, You only need to speak the word, and let God deal with the rest.

I also read somewhere in the post, the state of the church. the bible tells us that in the end days there will be a falling away, the wheat and the tares will grow together, but he will pluck them up and seperate them to their place.

WHO WILL YOU BELIEVE? I choose to trust God because he has not disappointed yet.

STUDY YOUR BIBLE TO SHOW YOURSELF APPROVED A CHAPTER A DAY IS ALL IT TAKES TO GET GOING.

[Carl A.Patton/FreedomJournal]

THE BLACK PREACHER: THE SHAME OF THE MINISTRY

PART 4: THE CALL TO CHRIST

In the name of God, Master of the universe, Ruler of the earth

Greetings Brethren,
Peace be unto you. As we bring the Call of the Preacher up for review, we have noted the need also to define Call. Thus, we note Call in two respects in our assessment of the Preacher. First one is Called to Christ, and secondly one can be Called to perform special duties for God and God's people. Since all Preachers claim a Call from God, bringing more clarity to Call is important..
Therefore, what is Call to Christ? Also, why is it necessary to be converted before accepting special duties? Can one be Called with very little or no skills and knowledge of God? Can one Preach without knowledge of the Word of God? Also, how does one gain knowledge of God's Word? Here we would be remiss if we did not note that one does not have to be a trained theologian to Preach the Word of God. Thus, many Preachers have been Called that do not hold degrees and credentials from academic institutions.
However, we bear witness that the main and most important credential for a Preacher is that he follows God and not man. Therefore, God has made no mistakes. If God has Called an un-educated man to the Ministry, he will also through the Holy Spirit that spoke to him regarding his Call also speak to him regarding his preparation. Thus, simply those they say they were/are Called but did not hear the Call to prepare (come into the knowledge of Truth, God's Word) were not Called by God but by man, himself).

Many scriptures reveal the actions of a person Called to the Ministry. However before we review and make note of these prominent scriptures we will explore the first Call. The Call to Christian Discipleship is revealed in all that convert and accept Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior.

We vividly see the Call to Christ in the Book of Hebrews. The Book of Hebrews reveals the leading theme of the New Covenant's superiority over the Old Covenant. Thus, Christ is superior to Moses and the Mosaic Law. The Hebrew people as the chosen people to reveal the message of God were born into this relationship.

However to be “Christ like" one has to accept Jesus Christ. To do so one must be old enough to understand the Truth and knowledge of God. Nevertheless, this Calling is open to all moved to believe and accept the Word of God. Therefore, the Call to Christian Discipleship is the first Calling and this Calling is open to all that are Called to convert to Christianity.

So all Christians are Called in the sense that they are members of the Christian family. Thus if one testifies that they are a Christian they have accepted the Call to Christ. As we now move to bring up for review another form of Call we note that God does not Call Apostles and Preachers today as he did during Old and New Testament times.

For example spiritual gifts like speaking in tongues and healing are no longer gifts given to God's people. Thus the miraculous gifts of prophecy, speaking in tongues will fail, cease and vanish away when that which is perfect comes. (See I Corinthians 13:8-10). Many theologians believe "that which is perfect come," describes the New Testament scriptures. Thus, at the completion of the writing of the New Testament, these gifts will no longer exist. The spiritual gifts of healing by Apostles are also added to this list. However, we still witness healing through God and prayer.

Here the FreedomJournal takes a Bold stand: All of the so-called Preachers, Prophets and Bishops that claim healing power are some of the most creative Liars on earth. (These Fools also claim that they have numbers that will allow you to hit the Lottery. Think Black man, Black woman. Since they love money so much why don't they play the Lottery themselves, instead of selling numbers for a few dollars? Think again, Now, The Lottery is usually several Million Dollars. Wouldn't playing the Lottery yourself make sense if you have the winning numbers all the time?

Therefore, we note that these lies of Blasphemy will send these Clowns and low-down parasites to Hell. NO ONE, THAT MEANS NO ONE, IS SUPPOSED TO "SELL" GOD'S BLESSINGS. Jesus never healed anyone the same way. God knew that man in his lust for money would try to sell this Divine gift once given to the great Prophets and Apostles. Thus, there is no formula in the Bible for Healing. The Laying on Hands by the False Prophets of today is a wicked Joke and not related to scripture. This is one of the worst acts of False Doctrine and False Teaching rendered by the False Prophets of today. We bear witness that all that read these Words, Tell Those that Dare to Forsake God in this Way that their Days are numbered and counted.

Meanwhile during the time before the writing of the New Testament there was a need to confirm the power of God through certain spiritual gifts. Soon however, the written word (the New Testament) would be a confirmation of God's Word. God does not Call Preachers like he did Jeremiah, Samuel and Paul. These men were summoned and appointed by God for a special purpose and given special powers. Preachers today are Called for a special purpose but they are Called through the Holy Spirit.

We note the special duties and responsibilities of those Called by God in Matthew 10:1.
"And when he had called unto him his twelve disciples, he gave them power against unclean spirits, to cast them out, and to heal all manner of sickness and all manner of disease."

Many contemporary Preachers are Called today. Although they are not given special powers they are chosen by God. The difference in the Calling is further revealed when we review the Calling of Samuel, Jeremiah and Paul.

In I Samuel the third chapter, God calls Samuel to serve him. God spoke directly to Samuel and all of Israel knew he was a prophet of the Lord, God appointed Samuel to bring the message of God to Israel. This Calling also takes on a special meaning in verse 7:
"Now Samuel did not yet know the Lord, neither was the word of the Lord yet revealed unto him."

In the first chapter of Jeremiah God calls Jeremiah. God called him to be a prophet to Judah. God knew Jeremiah before he was born or conceived. God also knows each of us. All Christians have a purpose in life. However, Jeremiah, Samson, Samuel, David, John the Baptist and Paul were appointed and anointed by God for special work.

In Galatians 1:11-24, Paul tells of his conversion. Paul reveals this to show that his message came directly from God. When God called Paul, he consulted with no one. Thus, he took Gods message of Good News directly to the Gentiles. In his special Calling just like the Call of Isaiah and Jeremiah, Paul knew that God had ordained him for special work before he was born.
Peace and Love, Carl Patton a willing slave of Almighty God writing for the FreedomJournal 24 June 2006 in the year of our Lord and Savior Christ Jesus.

Cont. Part 5: How Do You Know You Are Called?

[Carl A.Patton/FreedomJournal]

PART 3: WHAT IS THE CALL TO CHRIST FOR PREACHERS?

In the name of God, Master of the universe, Ruler of the earth.

Editors Note: These articles are taken from a previously written series on the Black Preacher.
Greetings Brethren,
Peace be unto you. The absence of obedience to God by many Preachers logically leads us to question the Calling of many Preachers. This disobedience is further revealed in the failure of many Preachers to use the Bible as the written Laws of God. However, what do we mean by Call? Generally the Call to the Ministry is reflected in a person declaring that God has Called them to Preach. Thus, they take on the title Preacher/Minister. Some seek to be ordained and Pastor a church. Some also seek to study theology. Also does the Call to the Ministry mean that Preachers will be Godly?

Meanwhile many people (men and women) who answer the Call do very little. Also, many of those Called to Preach have very little knowledge about the Word and do not try to learn anything. Therefore many Preachers that claim God has called them to Preach do not realize that the Bible is their guide and source for information about Christianity and the church. The Bible also tells those Called what their responsibilities are. Therefore the Bible records what all Call Preachers must do and what God will do to them if they forsake God. For the record does the ill- prepared Preacher actually know how important the Mission of a Minister is? We use the word Mission because we denote "a job" as a means to earn money. However, the Mission of a Minister is to save souls. Thus, saving souls is the priority and not making money. The Ministry is not a place to get rich. Rich Preachers need to beware if their riches came from the people and the Collection Plate.

Meanwhile we argue that God did not Call Preachers to get rich. So what does the Bible say about Call. There are several meanings for the Word Call in the Bible. In Jeremiah 33:3 "Call unto me, and I will answer thee, is noted as a Call to prayer. In the first chapter of Jeremiah we see God calling Jeremiah. Thus we see Call as a means to summon or appoint. In the Book of Genesis 1:5 we see: "And God called the light day." The fourth meaning for Call is related as the Call to invite men to accept salvation through Christ. This is a Call by God through the Holy Spirit. The Scripture references are Hebrews 3: 1, II Timothy 1:9 and I Corinthians 1:26 and 7:20.

As we continue to define the components of Call we argue that we can see a Call to the Ministry in two areas. God can appoint one to a special task. Also, one can be called to accept Jesus Christ. However what comes first, the Call to accept Christ or the Call to a special task? But, before we determine the chronology of the Call, we will define Preacher/Minister.

The definitive qualities of Preacher/Minister are found in the words of Bishop, Elder, Minister and the Pastoral Epistles. Bishops were originally the principal officers of the local church, the other being the Deacon or Deacons. (See I Timothy 3:1-7).

The title Elder generally applied to the same man, Elder referring to his age and dignity, and Bishop to his work of superintendence. As the church grew, the Bishop of a large church would often be given a special honor. Eventually a hierarchy grew from presiding Elders to Bishops over groups of churches, then to Archbishops.

Meanwhile, in ancient times the older men of a community were known as Elders. Elders governed the community and made all major decisions. After the return from exile the Elders made up the Sanhedrin, the governing Council of the Jews. When the Christian churches were established, Elders were appointed for each congregation. (See Acts 14:23). By the time of the New Testament we see the terms Elders and Bishops being used interchangeably. With the establishment of the churches their duties involved the spiritual oversight of the congregation and teaching the Word. However before the first century A.D. had elapsed, the term Bishop had taken on a special meaning, denoting the one leader of the church.

The transition and development of Minister like Bishop and Elder is seen in the Old Testament to the New Testament. Ministers originally meant a servant, though distinguished from a slave who may work against his will, and a hireling, who works for wages. Joshua as a young man was Minister to Moses. (See Exodus 24:13).

In Jeremiah 33:21-22 God Calls the Priests of Israel His ministers and his usage of the word for priests or religious leaders have come over into the Christian church. The Christian Minister is not only a servant of God, but he should also make it his business to serve the local church to which he is attached.

The Pastoral Epistles are a common title for Timothy I and II and Titus. These letters reveal directions for Pastors; however they were not addressed to Pastors in the usual present day sense of the term. They addressed these letters to Paul's special envoy. Paul sent these special Missionaries on specific missions.

Thus the present day Preacher/Minister developed from the Elder, Bishop and Ministers in the original Christian church, thus the hierarchy of the church being Christ, Elder/Bishop/Minister and Deacons. The record also notes that the Elders and Bishops were men.

We now return to the point, what comes first, the Call to Christ or the Call to special duties? One has to know God before he can perform special duties. Thus we argue that the Call to Christ comes first.
Peace and Love, Carl Patton a willing slave of Almighty God writing for the FreedomJournal 24 June 2006 in the year of our Lord and Savior Christ Jesus.

Cont. Part 4: The Call To Christ

[Carl A.Patton/FreedomJournal]

BLACK PREACHER: SHAME OF THE MINISTRY

PART 2: RESPONSE TO THE LETTER SENT TO MINISTER HAROLD K. “TINY” LESTER AND CHURCH OFFICERS MAY 31, 2006.

Beloved peace be unto you. As of 28 June 2006 Minister Harold K. “Tiny” Lester and his church officers at Orchard Knob MBC in Chattanooga, TN have failed to render a written response to our previous and initial correspondence. However they have responded verbally in the following manner.

As of 25 June 2006 Sunday the leading Minister Harold K “Tiny”. Lester noted to Ms. Catherine Patton Cothran that she needs to apologize for the letter noted by this writer on May 31, 2006. For the record the letter was written by Carl A. Patton and not Ms. Cothran. Meanwhile Sister Cothran was removed from teaching Sunday School and will relinquish any other duties as forthcoming.

Minster Harold K. “TINY” Lester and all of the officers that received a copy of the letter are confused. They should be apologizing to Sister Cothran. They withheld her property and insulted her. Do Ministers like Harold K. “Tiny” Lester and his church officers think they are above the law? Just how many criminals are members of Orchard Knob MBC? Does Harold K. “Tiny” Lester thrive on the company of criminals and those that break the many laws of this country. Have Harold and his partners in crime committed any crimes in concert?

Therefore, Brethren we feel for certain that Harold K. “Tiny” Lester and the church officers should be apologizing to Sister Cothran and Psyche Publishing for holding our property for two years.

Well this is what Free Expression is all about. This is why we have Blogs on the internet to rant and rave and air grievances especially among those that have very little resources to call in account lawyers and courtrooms. However there are other rooms.

Will the Saints of God stand against the tyranny of Preachers like Harold K. “Tiny” Lester?

Peace and Love,

Carl Patton, FreedomJournal, 28 June 2006 in the year of our Lord and Savior Christ Jesus.

[nobody special]

I read this post with interest and awe, I have watched Bishop Long, T.D. Jakes and I listen to their messages and even take notes, but Creflo do overdo the money part, and I realize that these preachers if they are out of the will of God, they will answer for it. You have to be responsible and rooted in the word of God to know if they are leading you down the wrong path, Even David had riches, and when solomon built the temple it was the finest, gold, The bible says that a house or even the devil divided against itself cannot stand, One thing I do remember what T.D. Jakes said was you don't know what I went through to get the things he has now. And they are black, If these preachers are leading black followers into a pit they are chosen it. Forsaken God's word of be careful who you stand with, hold counsel with. If they chose to stand and hold counsel with Bush, we as church members either say no, leave the church or we go along it. There is nothing wrong with being rich. Seem to me like they are throwing money at them. Then too we don't know if these preachers are not called from God, Jesus was a carpenter, there were doctor's, lawyers, fishermen, tax collector's that followed Jesus, Lost their life doing it. Jesus was mistreated, reviled, killed even by his own people, why do we continue to do these things to one another. What we should be worrying about is our own salvation, There are things and people that jesus foretold that will come or must come to past. One of them is false prophets, and the people being deceived, If I know none of them on a personal level then how can I say, except to ask God for guidance, I ain't met with Pres. Bush, nor anyone else, We are to pray for everyone our preachers, the sinners, the whoremongers, Be careful how we judge people according to what they have that we don't have but want. You have to get the word from somebody, They have helped understand a lot, which of course I read it for myself, actually I like how Madea breaks the bible down, she could be a preachertess herself. LOL. Different Subject. If you think they ain't doing right pray God will show them the way he wants them to go. The man that stored up his treasures on earth, is it better to lose your life, or gain your soul. That's in matthew. People as well as preachers do the same. If the people was right then they could not be so easily deceived. What's in their hearts. Seem like everybody that go to church got money problems, so they want somebody to tell them how to have money, how to get out of debt. They going for money not their souls, or salvation. The devil will give you what your heart desires the most. Me I am looking for God, because I am lost, if I spend my time worrying about the clothes the preacher has on, who put them on him, meanwhile I will perish. Joseph was over egypt. Be careful who you try to said God has not appointed. God knows who is doing what. By the way does anyone know what omnipotent mean without looking in the dictionary.

You do question, but don't try to play God and act if you know the answer too.

[nobody special]

I just want to say that God Bless us All

What the world needs now is love sweet love...that's the only way! Black people, my people, just let the rest of the world be, don't anger yourselves with the opinions or feelings of others. Do not speak (type) hatred of one another, we already have enough people "of" the world hating BLACK people for whatever reason. Let's StIcK 2gether, lift up one another, help our sisters & our brothers. Do not be conformed to this world.
OK BY NOW YA'LL PROBABLY KNOW I JUST WANT A LIL' PIECE OF THE BILLIONS TOO...LOL :) LOVE, LOVE, LOVE, LIKE JESUS LOVED US!!! peace

[Carl A. Patton, FreedomJournal]

Beloved peace be unto you. It is a tragedy that most likely we have more honest lawyers than honest preachers. “The Black Preacher: The Shame of the Ministry” is further revealed in the influx of materialism in the church. We see materialism in the TV ministries where religion is commercialized. This commercialization is turned into a science of Theology in the shrewd tactics of the very popular “Prosperity Ministers.”

Meanwhile the people of God search for a church that believes in the Whole Bible. Why have so many churches turned against God? Do these Preachers and church leaders believe in God? Can Satan blind the eyes of a man or woman that keeps God first?

We can ask many questions concerning the ungodly behavior of Black Preachers. For the record the mis-guided Demon possessed Black Preacher presents a crisis in the Black community. As church leaders these ungodly fools have brought every manner of worldly evil into the church. For the record Rap Gospel, homosexuals, lesbians, Whoremongers, whores, drug addicts do not get into the church unless allowed by the Preacher. The house of God is a place where the wickedness of sin should be addressed and healed. However when church leaders do not address these sins they merely sanction this behavior.

For example these are some of the un-Christian problems that no one addresses at Spring Hill MBC and Orchard Knob MBC. However what motivates Preachers who have been under the Word for thirty or forty years to go against the Word of God? How can these people; stand in the pulpit and say they stand on God’s Word but Censor Bible teaching in the church. For example Moses Pope removed this writer from teaching Sunday School in 2000. As of 25 June 2006 my beloved sister Catherine Patton Cothran was removed from teaching Sunday School by Harold K “Tiny”. Lester.

We have complied a list that we believe are some of the reasons that many Black Preachers act ungodly. However this list is not conclusive, but it will give us some ideas and a general framework for making an analysis of why Black Preachers (especially) have turned to Satan.

1. They don’t believe in the Bible.
2. They believe that they have a special relationship with God thus they are not held accountable like ordinary people.
3. They believe once saved always saved.
4. They believe that God’s grace, mercy and salvation is not a gift but a guarantee from God to all Preachers.
5. They are materialistic, thus they have no morals, values, principles and are predictable in their quest to worship money.
6. They have gone crazy in the ministry are they suffered serious psychological problems before entering the Ministry.
7. They are whoremongers often wallowing in the sin of gender confusion.
8. They are ignorant this include the educated, the illiterate and the uneducated.

As we proceed through this series, we hope to note details involving all of these reasons. Thus, we hope to bring some clarity to the ungodly nature of many Black Preachers. Nevertheless, how did these people get into the Ministry? Where did they come from? It seems to be surplus of Black Preachers men and women. Also many of these so-called Preachers can barely read (some can't read at all) and know very little about God and the Bible. Therefore how did they get into the Ministry?

Also see: The Black Preacher: The Shame of the Ministry
http://home.joimail.com/~carlpatton/shameblackpreacher/

FreedomJournal Censorship
http://home.joimail.com/~carlpatton/

[Monica Roberts]

And why is it when people call out sellouts like Minister Eddie Long and his money grubbing power hungry minions they have no answer other than to hide behind a pseudonym, pick up the Bible and either quote scripture out of context or hurl anti-gay Hateraid?

Christianity is designed for you to think, not surrender your God-given intelligence at the front door of the church and blindly follow someone because he or she has 'Pastor' or 'Bishop' in front of their name.

Seems to me that if your pastors were doing the right thing for Black America, you megachurch members wouldn't be tripping so hard when people call into question their actions.

God planted a seed all right. You just may not like the bitter fruit it bears or be surprised when the tree sprouts up in your own backyard.

[MR07]

Psalm 31:18 (King James Version)

18 Let the lying lips be put to silence; which speak grievous things proudly and contemptuously against the righteous.

1 Chronicles 16:22 (New International Version)

22 "Do not touch my anointed ones;
do my prophets no harm."

Psalm 105:15 (New International Version)
15 "Do not touch my anointed ones;
do my prophets no harm."

Why is it that when preachers begin to do Kingdom work, they are always criticized.
I am a proud member of New Birth. Most of your statements, I'm sure were made totally out of ignorance. The Bible is a book about politics, it speaks about kings, ambassadors, and other government officials. Don't hate on God's chosen ones just because they are getting everything that God ordained for us to have. God didn't call us to be broke, busted and disgusted. We are children of God. What father do you know, who owns everything that is, will have their children walking around barely making it.
All I basically want to say is "STOP HATING ON BISHOP LONG, BISHOP JAKES, AND OTHER MEGA CHURCHES BECAUSE THEY ARE DOING KINGDOM ASSIGNMENTS!!!!!!!"

[Vickie Fluellen]

I found you in a google search. I was looking to see what remarks people make about my pastor. I would like to defend the fact that he is a minister of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. So, if you are in anyway upset, bent out of shape, or uncomfortable. Good!! The Holy Spirit is working and a seed has been sown whether you realize it or not.

[Ladyjedi]

First of all, let me say that Black America has a problem with the mega church. Are churches being run like corporations? Yes, but the Catholic Church perfected that years ago...so why are you/others so upset by it?
Power, money and greed. Nothing new...been around for several milleniums.

Black Pastors have to start worrying if more Joel Olsteen's spring up. Lately it seems that several white pastors are starting to preach very "black"

[Monica Roberts]

I see the faith-based hatred of gay people is alive and well.

I fail to see why Black people would ally themselves with the SAME GOP conservative idiots that opposed our civil rights (and still do) just to grovel for faith based bribe money.

This New Black Church and it's 'Greed Is Good' theology ripped straight from the bigoted white televangelists that preach it is an abomination to everything our ancestors have struggled to accomplish in this country.

[Carolyn]

Be careful speaking about something you do not understand, for "Even as I have seen, they that plow iniquity, and sow wickedness, REAP the same." Job 4:8

We do not have to defend the gospel or those great men who dare to preach and teach "us" how to prosper. Those who slander the prosperity of black folks through biblical principals, feel free to stay in poverty and bondage if you choose. Those of us who "follow those who by faith and patience have inherited the promise" will love you in spite of yourselves and may even put a dollar or two in your bucket while you "work for food" as we "work for ourselves" as trained and taught by great leaders like those slandered herein.

"Amusing" you say Miss (or Mr. whichever "role" you play); its far from that; its a shame. I think the Bible calls it an abomination. God still forgives, delivers and saves though, and He loves you - try Him and see for yourself.

[Carolyn]

Be careful speaking about something you do not understand, for "Even as I have seen, they that plow iniquity, and sow wickedness, REAP the same." Job 4:8

We do not have to defend the gospel or those great men who dare to preach and teach "us" how to prosper. Those who slander the prosperity of black folks through biblical principals, feel free to stay in poverty and bondage if you choose. Those of us who "follow those who by faith and patience have inherited the promise" will love you in spite of yourselves and may even put a dollar or two in your bucket while you "work for food" as we "work for ourselves" as trained and taught by great leaders like those slandered herein.

"Amusing" you say Miss (or Mr. whichever "role" you play); its far from that; its a shame. I think the Bible calls it an abomination. God still forgives, delivers and saves though, and He loves you - try Him and see for yourself.

[Dr. Martin]

I am so grateful for insightful article exposing the dreadful activities of the mega church movement. Eddie Long and others like him are an embarrassment of those of us who in his words are not worthy of attention. I have been in the pastoral ministry for 48 years and I have pastored in Virginia, California and now Colorado. I currently pastor a church with more than 50 active ministries, from feeding and clothing the hungry to providing money for utilities and other financial necessities that may come our way. Each Sunday I preach to 2,500 wonderful souls. I love them all because when they are sick I visit them in the hospital, I personally oversee their homegoing services, I have a personal relationship with multiple generations from baptisms to marriages to graduations, etc. The joy of my ministry is serving the needs of the people personally. I am not in the bed with any politician because I learned a long time ago, association make assimilation. These people have sold their souls cheaply to the Bush administration must bear the burden of selling us down the river. We have not come very far from the masta's plantation have we. There are still hose niggers and field niggers at work in our culture. They emanate sadly from the church house. To equate ministry today with the political insanity of the Bush administration is a sin and a shame on the part of Eddie Long and others like T. D. Jakes, who look as awful as Sammy Davis did when he hugged Nixon. Again thank you and I appreciate a sista like you who is not afraid to report as you did.

Dr. Martin
Denver Colorado

[Donna Dortch]

We must remember that only God can judge us!

[Ms. lilian Banks]

jasmyne your are so ignorant. Don't you know all of this madness, outing people, acusations will just eventually hurt black gay people?

[Blu Sol]

I choose not to waste a lot of time and effort on such ignorant opinions. I am a proud member of New Birth, under the ministry and leadership of Bishop Eddie L. Long.

It amazes me that we spend so much time criticizing, and less time offering positive solutions for positive change, for a nation as a whole. What change will blasting out ministers and leaders bring about? And you probably never even sat in one service--and trust me, the television and Internet broadcasts don't do them justice. How can we speak on that which we really don't know or understand?

I am thankful that I am not in the lime light and am being judged by MY OWN PEOPLE on a consistent basis. It's kind of a damned if I do, damned if I don't thing. If the church was too small, then you need to build membership. When the church builds membership, well, it's too big. How can you people be pleased? Why try?

And it is NOT impossible for a rich man to get into heaven. Maybe you need to "study to show thyself approved!"

Visit www.WannaHolla.blogspot.com for REAL issues.

[Laura]

so...where does Jesus say anything about free market economics lol?

Last I heard was something about it being impossible for a rich man to enter the kingdom but hey, what do I know?

These religiously insane megachurch attendees will follow anybody with a cadillac and a fancy suit off a cliff. Why aren't we allowed to question them?

We don't need corporate ripoff pastors. Please be advised that most Blacks do not attend these churches.

That's because our people have sense, unlike the 2% who still support President Layoffs.

Me Too!

[Chris]

Im just waitin on yall ignorant mean hipocritical niggas to say sumthin about Bishop Noel Jones.

If a man also lie with mankind, as he lieth with a woman, both of them have committed an abomination:...... Leviticus 20:13 So why are you attacking these preachers???? They are only preaching what is written in the Bible. So really your beef is with God!!!! So why don't you attack HIM!!!! What are you scared He won't wake you up in the morning or something????? LOL

[Dell Gines]

Sis, I think you could do a better analysis that what you did. You made some solid points, but you imply things that you can not know and inject your assumptions on the 'correctness' of the way things should be with out expounding on them as it relates to these big churches and their behavior.

Think about it this way. You have a small business that serves cookies. These cookies become a hit, and the company grows, adding employees to serve the community...then they add employees to serve the city...then they add employees to serve the state...then they add employees to serve the nation.

Would you criticize the cookie salesman for growth based upon people enjoying his product?

The same can be said of the Mega-Church. If we look at it minus the religion, and simply as a market function of supply and demand, then how can you criticize the pastor without criticizing the populace who demands what the pastor supplies.

Secondly, you failed to acknowledge any positivity that these church supply their congregation. Let's still remain 'outside the spiritual'. For a fact I know TD Jakes has a heavy emphasis on black entrepreneurialism and helping people get put on. The other cat, Eddie Long, I am not so sure.

But suffice to say, if they offer hope in exchange for dollars, and they happen to do it better than the 50 member church, why would you criticize?

Why also would you criticize them for at least courting Republicans when Democrats have turned a sh*&ty eye on black folks, and since you like to use the word pimp, have been pimping us for our votes for years with only meager return.

My personal opinion, and you can tell me if I am wrong, is that you simply have an ideological difference that you are exporting through this piece by creating strawmen to attack.

Either way, you can do better. I can think of quite a few cause and effect critiques you could have offered instead of falling into the cliche'd - Pimp/Publican

By the way, I added you to my blogroll, check out the site when you get a chance...

www.dellgines.com