The Old Black Church

R eader will you stand with Presiding Bishop Charles E. Blake, Sr., the General Board and the entire constituency of the Church Of God In Christ, Inc. tomorrow, February 1st in a Moment of Silence honoring the lives of Echol Cole and Robert Walker - the two men whose death spurred the continued efforts in the Civil Rights Movement?

R eader, I found the above post on my timeline this morning and thought it was interesting; especially the comments. COGIC Presiding Bishop Charles E. Blake and his lovely wife Mae in August listed their longtime Beverly Hills mansion for sale. https://everytimeiturnaround.blogspot.com/2018/02/presiding-bishop-charles-e-blake-and-10.html

R eader I want to thank Dr. Matthew Stevenson for sharing this, this the kind of deliverance I grew up on. Old school at its finest. This is real ministry. Ain’t nobody got time to judge we all struggle with something. Dr. Matthew Stevenson posted the following to Facebook:

R eader two-time GRAMMY winner Tye Tribbett is teaming up with TBN  (Trinity Broadcasting Network) for a new Gospel Music Show called the  Gospel Worship Experience which he'll host alongside recording artist Javen.  The first Gospel Worship Experience taping took place last night   January. 29  at the Holy Land Experience Church of All Nations, Orlando, Fl, which featured special guests Tasha Cobbs Leonard, Travis Greene, Kierra Sheard, and Anthony Brown.

R eader, here we go again I'm questioning some of these techniques that are being used by some of these men and women of God. It’s really disturbing to watch something like this. I don’t understand how someone could even be in the same room while this going on. I wouldn’t even want to spectate. Be careful who you let lay hands upon you! We are in the last day's saints and there are a lot of deceiving spirits roaming within the church. 

R eader please look at this foolishness. There are two Stacey’s running in the GA Democratic Gubernatorial primary. One is Black, one is white. This is an ad the white Stacey ran. It was pulled after the church complained that it was filmed without their consent. Stacey Evans, filmed the commercial in a black church during a MLK celebration without permission AND THEN posted her image over Kings. .... https://www.facebook.com/hillary.e.holley/videos/1639086139447659/

R eader this is an interesting flyer, I think that it's important to have a vision. In fact, the Bible says "Where there is no vision, the people perish..." Proverbs 29:18. But there's no place in scripture that mention anything about a Vision Boards. Steve Harvey, Oprah and many more celebrities have relied on a vision board for their guide to success!  

R eader kind of missing the point of diversity here. Just when you thought you just might have seen the limits of astounding bigotry, someone does something like this. That is some special kind of stupid.  I tried to track down the original craigslist ad, but it's been flagged for removal. Guess they're trying to clean up their image🤣. The original ad is below the break:

R eader Israel will offer a cash reward to civilians who sign up to become immigration inspectors with the government unit that oversees the deportation of the country's large asylum and refugee population.

R eader Redemption Church, Greenville SC, is changing pastors and name. Greenville's Redemption Church will be renamed Relentless Church during a transition from founding pastor Ron Carpenter Jr. to Joel Osteen associate John Gray III's leadership. Pastor John Gray began as a comedian and singer on Christian tours and is now an associate pastor at one of the nation's largest churches, Osteen's Lakewood Church. Gray also is the subject of OWN Network's reality TV series "The Book of John Gray." John Gray will be taking over the leadership of Greenville's Redemption Church in May when Carpenter moves to San Jose, California, to take over for retiring pastor Dick Bernal at the Jubilee Christian Center. The preacher moves were announced to the three congregations in early December. Redemption is one of South Carolina's largest churches. Founded in 1991 with just three attendees, it has grown into a megachurch with more than 20,000 members and

R eader should women teach in seminary? Pastor and founder of desiringGod.org John Piper recently garnered widespread attention and backlash for his comments regarding women teaching in seminary. 

R eader there's rumors flowing online that Google Assistant/Alexa/Cortana don’t attribute Jesus as Christianity’s God, yet they will acknowledge other religions’ gods.  Now I have an iPhone 7 plus so I put Siri to the test. What did I get? ALL religious figures I inquired were reverence to their respective religions, except for Jesus. He didn’t even make the cut in the ‘Knowledge’ bank, he’s not even acknowledged as the founder of Christianity.  There're some online Christians who are saying it doesn't matter but I say it does matter. We have to remember, Google is one of the largest resources for information on the internet. Millions upon million of people ignorantly and possibly blindly trust google to give fair and truthful answers to searches and inquiries. It does matter because Google has enormous power over society and culture.  Thoughts? 👀 🤔🤔🤔 

R eader Snoop Dogg will debut material off his highly anticipated new gospel album, titled Bible of Love during Super Bowl weekend. Snoop will headline the NFL sanctioned 19th Annual Super Bowl Gospel Celebration (SBGC), which will kick-off Super Bowl 52.

R eader I am not a strong supporter of Don Lemon but this is one interview that really needs to be seen. He is interviewing racist Franklin Graham. It is a fascinating and, frankly, troubling interview with someone who seems to be blindly supporting a fundamentally immoral President for political reasons no matter the moral character of the man. Or the ungodly actions of the man.

R eader who would have ever thought my home state of A-L-A-B-A-M-A would be one of the first states to go this way on this issue. Way to go BAMA, "Roll Tide." The state will continue to recognize any marriage and couples can choose to file an affidavit if they wish to "register" their marriage. Marriage should be controlled by the people - not government. People should be able to have any or no ceremony as they choose. Legal matters could be handled by a legal contract, signed by both persons. There is no need for government to be involved unless one of the parties violates the contract. I have been married nearly 30 years - my marriage is between my husband myself and most of all God. Government involvement contributes nothing....... it's all about the vows we made to each other before God.

R eader are we not on the road to destruction? Don't get me wrong I understand what they are trying to do but this just look to creepy. Dozens of sex dolls have been designed to look like children has been seized by police across the United Kingdom in the past year. Police in the U.K. announced that they've seized 123 child sex dolls since March 2016 as part of an ongoing special operation. The dolls — which have lifelike designs, weigh as much as a typical child and are made of silicon material — can cost about $1,000 each.

R eader I've been part of the black church construct for most of my life, and believe me when I say this topic is nothing new within those walls.  I 'm still amused at all the ways "He that finds a wife finds a good thing" can be used against women. I always thought that i t was God’s desire from the beginning that men be quality of being honest and having strong moral principles; moral uprightness in order to fulfill his responsibility in finding a wife. Didn't God assigned men two duties in the garden? To provide and protect the woman. But, men can’t do that if they don't know they have a responsibility. https://www.theroot.com/time-s-up-on-men-telling-single-women-how-to-be-worthy-1822310194

R eader did you know that Atlanta is ranked as one of the top cities for sex trafficking? Dr. E. Dewey Smith says meet them on Wednesday, January 31st at 7PM for the Sex Trafficking Symposium. They will discuss this very real and important issue and ways to combat this growing problem!

R eader a former gospel music singer is changing his name and musical stylings to pursue an identity as a bisexual R&B musician. Aaron Thomas, who is known for his 2012 song "In Your Presence," has changed his stage name to Terrence Stone. More than just a moniker, Stone told Philadelphia magazine that he wanted to change his sound from gospel to R&B. The popular gospel singer has plans to leave spiritual music behind to focus on a career as an R&B artist. Singer-songwriter Aaron Thomas, 27, appeared on American Idol, Showtime at the Apollo, and BET’s Sunday Best. But despite a successful career as a gospel singer, he never felt entirely at home in that world.  http://www.newnownext.com/aaron-thomas-terrence-stone-bisexual-gospel/01/2018/?xrs=synd_facebook_logo

R eader another testimony shut down, and you know what the most hypocritical thing is today? It’s these so-called pastors. The way he wrestles that mic from that young lady is stupid.  You can not choose which testimony to hear and which one not to!!! The church should be welcoming of people from all walks of life. The only way you can believe that the church is real is by its fruits.  https://www.facebook.com/mediatakeout/videos/1964108296954441/

R eader let the church say YEEEEEESSSSSS!!!!! I grew up on the singing and preaching of Bishop Carlton Pearson. he changed the game and was one of the first modern-day ministers that opened up a window to a fresh way of engaging with the Bible, Pentecostalism, and the people. 

"If Elijah the prophet of God could appear I'd give him, classes of the Gospel, I can just imagine him with a pen and paper taking notes. I am greater than Elijah or any other old testament prophets". R eader, saw this on my news feed this morning. This woman is deeply deceived and is deceiving many others I must say.  Calling herself better than Elijah.....I can't begin to describe how that doesn't sit well with me. How ignorant can some people be?  This so-called Lady Hekma has the nerve to even speak Elijah's name let alone and to say she is greater than any of God's Prophets. Is it not written, I will do nothing but reveal my secrets to my prophets? Jesus the Christ, said that about the prophets, not the apostles. “Surely the Lord GOD does nothing unless He reveals His secret to His servants the prophets” (Amos 3:7). To announce the punishment and warn the nation to change its ways, God sent a messenger, Elijah the prophet.   Thoughts??

R eader Rev. Samuel Rodriguez, of the National Hispanic Christian Leadership Conference, prayed at the inauguration. Now, NPR's Michel Martin asks how he talks to his church about Trump's immigration views.

R eader this is developing into an interesting story. This sista brother Henry Epps wrote the following in a Facebook post Saturday evening:

R eader WOW Gospel is a notable brand that premieres an annual collection of top selling artists from Traditional to Contemporary Gospel! This power-packed compilation returns with the best in Gospel music, Praise & Worship Anthems, and top Ballads to hit radio this year.  The WOW Gospel 2018 double disc CD set that features 30 top tracks from legendary & groundbreaking gospel talents such as Travis Greene, (You Waited), Fred Hammond (Father Jesus Spirit), Tye Tribbett (Work It Out), Tasha Cobbs Leonard (Great God), Tamela Mann (God Provides) & many more! 

R eader we have good days, and we have bad day. Sometimes the bad outweigh the good. Here are a couple things Pastor E. Dewey Smith say you can do to slowly improve your mental wellbeing. I'm kind of puzzled by number #10?? https://www.facebook.com/hohatl/

R eader It's more likely that abortion providers set up where the demand is, and the demand arises where poverty is centered and poverty correlates disproportionately with minority communities because of institutional racism that depresses educational opportunities, employment, wages, etc.

R eader this is an interesting topic, what do y'all think ? Was the decree made in Malachi to the priest ? Is it taken out of context today?  

R eader Apostle Kimberly Daniels, AKA"the demon buster" who now serves in government, has been shaking the pit of hell since she was elected into office (allegedly) has just dodged a bullet. An ethics complaint against state Rep. Kim Daniels was dropped Friday after the state ethics commission determined the complaint was filed too close to an election to qualify. The same commission earlier found probable cause the Jacksonville Democrat had filed false financial disclosure forms. Ms. Daniels has sponsored & passed, bills that would put prayer back in school. The original complaint was filed based on reporting by The Florida Times-Union and showed Rep. Kim Daniels, who pastors a church, shuffled properties and time-shares to her nonprofit ministry and didn’t disclose $1 million in debt owed on a Broward County home. http://jacksonville.com/news/metro/2018-01-09/state-rep-daniels-escapes-ethics-scrutiny-her-financial-disclosure-still-doesn

R eader the below clip is an old clip of Travis Greene giving his testimony at Pastor E. Dewey Smith church Greater Travelers Rest - Decatur, GA of how God brought him back to Life after being pronounced dead.  The Gospel artist said that he fell out of a window at 4 years old and was pronounced dead.  But his mother did nothing but call on the name above ALL names. Take a listen!

R eader I don't get it, why in the world get married?  It could never be okay with me for the man I love to entertain other women and have sex with whoever and vice versa. This article says there are many kinds of marriages. What in the world happened to God creating marriage as a covenant between a man and a woman built on unconditional love (Genesis 2:18–24; Ephesians 5:21–33). When he gave the first man and woman to each other, he told them to "be fruitful and multiply and fill the earth" (Genesis 1:28). However, our culture's definition of marriage has obviously departed drastically from God's design in recent years.

R eader branding is the visual representation of a thing identity. When branding is focused enough, it becomes a character of its own. With that being said, Rev. Shante Buckley , the founder of Lift Community Church in West Dallas trademarked the name, but, thus far, that hasn't stopped the head of an upstart church in Frisco (Lift Frisco) from using "Lift" in its name, which has prompted Ms. Buckley to sue. 

R eader the following is an official press release from Global United Fellowship on the passing of Bishop Alexis A. Thomas, of Pilgrim Rest Baptist Church, Phoenix, Arizona.

R eader a s the Muslim population increases, the U.S. will have to come to terms with the reality that Islam is an important part of the country's fabric. Muslims are projected to become the second-largest religious group in the U.S. by 2040, fueled in part by high fertility rates and immigration, according to new estimates by the Pew Research Center. https://www.realclearreligion.org/2018/01/18/muslims_projected_to_be_2nd-largest_us_religion_by_2040_279039.html

R eader please govern yourself accordingly, the funeral services have been set for famed gospel pioneer, Edwin Hawkins. Celebration of Life Services will take place 7PM nightly from the Harbor Light Church, 4760 Thornton Avenue, Fremont, CA. Musical Celebration: Tuesday, February 6, 2018 – 7PM Homegoing Celebration: Wednesday, February 7, 2018 – 7PM The Oakland native passed away Monday morning from his Bay Area home in Pleasanton, CA. In lieu of flowers, the family is requesting that donations be made to the Music & Arts Conference by mail, to MALFC, PO Box 27107, Oakland, CA or online via PayPal musicandartshawkins@gmail.com Source: Faith In The Bay

R eader I absolutely loved this article! Well written and a great approach to this new trend. I see it a lot here in Jacksonville, FL. It has a strong presence here, as I would imagine many other metropolitan cities have as stated in the article. For those that still think Christianity is the white mans religion or that it was bought via slavery you may want to read these truths.

R eader the old saying goes, when life hands you lemons make lemonade. That's what Tavis Smiley has chosen to do. About a month ago, PBS suspended distribution of Tavis Smiley's late-night show, Tavis Smiley, due to allegations of "sexual misconduct" against the talk show host.

R eader "The Revival" hosted by Dr. Aretha Wilson, is taking over New York, February 15th - 18th. With Bishop(s) Neil C. Ellis , Noel Jones, Michael Blue, Jacqueline McCullough, Apostle Guillermo Maldonado, Pastor Kimberly Ray-Gavin & Maranda Curtis the prophetic worship encounter. 

R eader if anyone "preaches" the kind of fake "gospel" that justifies them buying a $36M jet because otherwise they'd have to fly on a "long tube of demons," run the other way. Fast. This kind of theology is destructive, dangerous and idolatrous. 

R eader social media has become a platform for all people to share opinions and engage in conversation. Yet, Pastor Jamal Bryant feels he was unfairly silenced by Instagram. Upon discovering the controversial ad by H & M he took to formally issuing the following call to action:

😡 R eader, I have a lot of questions. A whole lot of anger. And I just want to weep for these precious kids who will likely have to spend many, many years getting help recovering from their nightmare. According to report, some of the 13 Turpin children were found shackled with chain and padlocks in their own home. They were also emaciated and pale. Thankfully, the 17-yr old daughter was able to escape and notify authorities.

R eader congratulations to Gospel great Norman Hutchins who classic song "Emmanuel” hit Billboard Top 10 for the 14th consecutive year.  It has also been added to the Methodist Hymnal. 

R eader according to Leonard D. Robinson II, at Church Folk Revolution there's some good news......Apostle Darrell Yancey has been arrested. For that many women to come forward and say that he raped them as children and even IMPREGNATED them, and did it in the name of the Lord. He's sick and have been turned over to a reprobate mind. I pray that he be dealt with fairly and may the Lord God deal with him merciful. 

Reader I would like to pause to celebrate the life and legacy of Dr. Edwin Hawkins.  He was truly a pioneer and giant who helped shape Gospel music as we know it today.  He will always hold a special place in our hearts with the timeless classic “O Happy Day,” which is a  favorite. My sincerest prayers to the Hawkins family during this difficult time. 🙏🏾🕊

R eader "Reversing Discrimination Consequences, Part 1", is a new teaching series by Dr. Tony Evans. The truth is, even Christians who believe we’re all equal under God can treat some people like they’re “more equal” than others. Tony Evans will talk about why fairness ought to begin within the family of God and why dealing with discrimination should take seconds instead of centuries. https://www.oneplace.com/ministries/the-alternative/listen/reversing-discrimination-consequences-part-1-640764.html

R eader yesterday a North Carolina church pastor and his wife were killed when their vehicle was hit by an Amtrak train. They were going around the railroad crossing arms at the time. Just like that, they're gone forever.  http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-5270121/Pastor-wife-killed-SUV-hit-Amtrak.html

☝R eader, I'm not knocking this lady testimony at all but I'm asking why in the world would anyone stay with someone who attempted to kill them?  👇Below is a clip of District Missionary, Lucy Hill's testimony about her husband who tried to kill her back in the day.  

R eader this is some what of an old clip of Dr. Todd Hall teaching that Satan is not the author of sin. Now I'm one who believed that sin originated in heaven, when Satan rebelled and wanted to be worshipped. He said. “I will ascend in the heavens and set my throne above the stars of God and I will make myself like the Most High.” As you Bible readers know he led a heavenly rebellion against God and took a third of the angels with him. So in my understanding sin originated in heaven. It is men like Todd Hall that proves how simpleminded some folks really are. I have watched preachers like him for years talk really slow while saying really elementary crap and some folks act like fools to impress them. Come on my people - Stop Shouting and start studying and you will cease to be impressed!

R eader Pope Francis reminds us why and how we ended up with 45 as the President of this great country and all that it implies. I have no doubt the Pope is right on this. Pope Francis seems to think that there are no sh**holes, only a**holes.  “Having doubts and fears is not a sin,” the pope said. “The sin is to allow these fears to determine our responses, to limit our choices, to compromise respect and generosity, to feed hostility and rejection.” Francis elaborated: “The sin is to refuse to encounter the other, the different, the neighbor,” instead of seeing it as a “privileged opportunity” to encounter God. http://www.cantonrep.com/news/20180114/pope-its-sin-if-fear-makes-us-hostile-to-migrants

R eader Monday January 15, 2018, New Birth Missionary Baptist Church family and love ones will mark the one year anniversary death of it Senior Pastor Eddie Long.