Hip-Hop, Idolatry & The Church Pt. 31 ~ Church Girls Gone Wrong

In my 2013 post "Seduced Church: The Prostitution, & Sale Of The Psalmist" I started off with the following scripture:

Matthew 4:8-11 ~ 8-Again, the devil taketh him up into an exceeding high mountain, and sheweth him all the kingdoms of the world, and the glory of them; 9-And saith unto him, All these things will I give thee, if thou wilt fall down and worship me. 10-Then saith Jesus unto him, Get thee hence, Satan: for it is written, Thou shalt worship the Lord thy God, and him only shalt thou serve. 11-Then the devil leaveth him, and, behold, angels came and ministered unto him.

Unfortunately, nearly 10 years later, after world political and social fallout, a global pandemic that was also a rebuke to the church and the world, and a host of other issues, we are still dealing with rank secularism and idolatry within the church and among many of our leading so called "psalmists". it seems that not only have they sold themselves out to nothing more than "the enemy" in order to make money and or be relevant but they are continuing to do so regardless of consequences or the trauma that their actions perpetrate upon both the church and public. 

A Timely Word & Rebuke

Recently, Bishop Patrick Wooden of North Carolina 3rd Jurisdicion COGIC, who has been one of the most blessed and outspoken leaders in COGIC for a number of years, and who is certainly a friend of mine, recently undertook the ungodly presentation of hip-hop songstress Beyonce, in her song "Church Girl". It seems that her production staff, along with her approval for sure, sampled a foundational Clark Sister's song written in 1981 by Twinkie Clark-Terrell, called "Center Of Thy Will". Because of the nature and source of the sample, and resultant use in a very debase song, much controversy has been stirred. 

The Facts Have Been Made Known

In 2018, I outline in my article Hip Hop, Idolotry & The Church series #29 that Beyonce, is by all accounts, a follower of a demonic religious belief known as Santeria. In that article I state the following:

"Within Santeria, the manifestation of a god is called an orisha. orishas (of which there can be many) can be perceived in the physical universe by initiates, and the whole community can share in their presence when they possess a priest. The orishas can be perceived through dancing, drumming, speaking to and eating with the spirits. Unlike Yoruba, in Santeria, a woman or a female can be anointed or dubbed a priest and maintain or posses special powers to the degree that the priest has "yielded to" or dedicated themselves to the particular orishas that they serve." ~ The Dunamis Word 9/22/2018

These orishas are certainly demons or demonic forces. In that same article, I document the case of former drummer Kimberly Thompson who sued Beyonce for spell casting and her "extreme witchcraft" practices. This case was probably was settled out of court with an NDA, was dismissed as neither side appeared in court to answer or address the restraining order issue. Amazingly, Kimberly was used to discuss mental illness and no additional information is available on the case. 

With a false religion, witchcraft, combined with all the evidence of possession that she puts out through her alter-ego, Sasha Fierce, it is not hard to understand that Beyonce is doing what she has done, for the most part of her career, by promoting her false deity through her music and presentations, and either directly or inadvertently seducing the masses to viewing her as some sort of icon and getting paid a LOT of money for it in the process.

I mean look at it, the very thought of "criticism" being leveled at Beyonce causes some to get angry, cuss, fuss and just overall hate the critic out of pocket no matter what is being criticized. This indicates that in the mind and hearts of many, Beyonce has taken on a "goddess status" and is untouchable and is above reproach. Many minds have been seduced and believe me, her CD's and productions are prayed over in her spirit of witchcraft.

The fact that Beyonce and her husband JayZ, who have both been the inspiration for a non-traditional view of religion, spirituality and moral values, openly in their music and personal statements, should be a strong indicator of what one is "getting themselves into" in seeking to do core business with this particular music group. In essence, WALKS, TALKS, QUACKS...OK...

The Music Industry & The Sample Game

Artists sampling the music of others within their music is not all together a new game, but one that has certainly taken new and expanded dimensions in the age of digital music production. To be clear, many of the major gospel artists and choirs have allowed their music, songs or certain parts of a song or presentation to be sampled by both secular and fellow gospel artists AND/OR, in many cases have used certain portions of secular artists works to make, produce and present gospel music. 

For instance Kanye West, who has either sampled the music of others or been sampled by others over some 3,000 times, has, during his recent tryst into gospel music and the church, sampled songs as far back as 1976 in order to produce many of his more popular so called gospel songs, some of which are still anything but gospel.

Gospel artist Kirk Franklin (the KING of secular artist remakes and samples) who has either sampled or been sampled over some 62 times with portions of his most popular songs, such as "I Smile" using samples from secular artists such as Scarface ("Smile" 1977), Bob James ("Take Me To The Mardi Gras" 1975) and Little Feat ("Fool Yourself" 1973). 

Others such as Mary Mary who's 2005 hit "Heaven" was nearly an entire direct sample of the 1971 hit "Want Ads" by Honey Cone, is another example of the gospel music artist borrowing from secular music. Then there's the 2010 hit "Walking" (man some of my most favorite songs) which sampled Run-DMC ("Here We Go" 1985) and Crystal Water's 1991 hit "Gypsy Woman"

Ooh, yes, we're not through...there's the incomparable Fred Hammond, who has not only sampled a portion of Stevie Wonder's 1976 hit "Love's in need of love today" in his "2004 Love In Need, but he also sampled the biggest beggar of all time, Keith Sweat (1987 "I want her") in his 1998 "I Wanna Know Your Ways" and even the SOS Band's 1980 song "Take Your Time(Do It Right)" in his 2000 "Willing To Follow You".  

Then, there is the most SECULAR degenerate of them all...Deitrick Haddon, who has leveled great animus against the critics of  both Clark and Knowles saying:

"Gospel artists have been sampling secular songs and turning them gospel for decades. And you've been worshiping and dancing to them songs! Now when they want to sample our songs we get self righteous and fake holy. That's the epitome of hypocricy" 

He went on to say:

“Let @beyonce make her song for her audience and you make your gospel song for your audience. Then mind your own business and let God be God. If you have a problem or a concern about Beyoncé just pray for her strength!
On another note:
I’m glad that @twinkieclark is getting rewarded after some fake gospel label shyster swindled young, innocent Twinkie out of all her publishing!
Twinkie is one of my musical heroes and it does my heart so glad to know she’s getting paid. Someone with her talent should have been super rich but she dedicated her gift to a people that half way appreciate what she has contributed to the gospel!
Lord I thank you for the wealth transfer to a woman of God that deserves it. It blows my mind how God works"

First of all, Deitrick delivers so many false narratives concerning this, I could spend another entire article addressing it. For instance Twinkie is 66 years old and was swindled out of some of her publishing when she was in her 20's from what we understand. So that is nearly 40 years ago. Then how do we "pray the strength" of a devil or evil? That is a RIDICULOUS notion. In total, his are ridiculous sentiments put as if Twinkie was just swindled yesterday or that all people deserve the blessings of God's people, no matter their worldview, goals or aims.

However, there is a good reason Deitrick would be all for sampling without limitations. It seems that 18 of his songs have either been sampled or include a sample and MOST, if not ALL of them, he sampled parts from SECULAR artists. In other words many of his songs COME FROM SECULAR ARTISTS or contain an element in them from secular artists including the following songs: 

*"Fire" (1999) which samples "Ascension" by Maxwell (1982) and "Outstanding" (1982) by The Gap Band
*"Don't Go" (2006) which samples "Stay With Me" (1983) by DeBarge
*"Glory" (2017) which sampled "Juicy Fruit" (1983) by Mtume
*"Hold on 2 your Faith" (1997) which sampled "Stranger in Moscow" (1996) by Michael Jackson
*"Oh Yea" (2002) which sampled "Break Up To Make Up" (2002) by JAY Z and R KELLY
*"Holiness" (1997) which sampled "Walk On By" (1969) by Issac Hayes

There is more, but I seriously grow tired. 

What a BUNCH OF GARBAGE!!! Jay Z AND R Kelly??? Are you serious Deitrick??? To call someone else a hypocrite is the BLACK POT calling the Kettle Black....Your team has dealt with devils and demons, presented things to the church in the name of God, and you try to justify your DIRTY deeds...What apostasy comes this way???

Small Agreement...

To the point, of which I agree to SOME little extent, as I ALREADY STATED ABOVE, the sample game, from secular music to gospel music and vice versa, is strong and has been in existence for quite some time. So, in the ONE and ONLY area in which Deitrick and I can find some semblance of agreement, please be clear, Twinkie DID NOT start this trend, and Beyonce, who's team has either sampled or has been sampled over 400 times is no novice to the sampling game.

Now, none of this is an endorsement of the sampling game or what gospel music and gospel musicians or our "psalmists" are doing. It is a reflection of what is actually going on and why many people have called for an end to the gospel music "industry".  One can debate over that all day, but what should not be debateable is that gospel music and secular music may have common roots, but wholly different aims or end goals. Many of these people don't want you to believe that there is and should be a specific difference between the world and Gospel because they attempt to serve 2 masters, but that kingdom is coming down and ONLY the Kingdom of Christ will be exalted.   

Some Details On The SAMPLE PROCESS

There are 2 parts to the process of sampling. First, anyone sampling music means that SOMEBODY gets paid $$$. There is always, or should be an exchange of money from the sampler [aka: purchaser] to the sampl(ee) [aka: seller]. This means that the sampl(ee) would either ONE, get paid a flat fee or an amount of money for the sample, or TWO, receive royalties on the play of the music in which their sample is used. Sometimes, there could be a combination of both. It depends upon how the contract to sample is negotiated.

From industry insiders, normally under the latter arrangement, the payment to the sampl(ee) is roughly .06 cents per play, (under whatever ruberic play is counted) but that is for the life of the song in which the sample is used. Under the flat fee method, a person would get paid, a PRE-NEGOTIATED sum of money and walk away from the project. One payment, no matter how successful or unsuccessful the song in which the sold sample is used.

From a monetary standpoint, according to TVStarsInfo Twinkie Clark has a modest net worth of $6MM to $7MM, which pales in comparison to Beyonce's which is reportedly over $500MM. However, Twinkie has also been plagued with health conditions on and off which may take their toll financially. So I certainly don't condemn Twinkie (as we call her) for seeking to pad the bottom line and make money... However, unlike Haddon, who is ineptly blind in this instance, I will address the real issue in a bit...  

SECONDLY, under normal circumstances, the sampl(ee) is given the scope, range and sample use parameters BEFORE payment is made and the transaction concluded. In other words, the person who made and or produced, or has publishing rights of the original sample is usually and normally given full knowledge of what will happen to their sample and or song and the details of how that song will be used. There is always an exchange of vision and use of the sample and or song, is not blind. In other words, use of the sample, DOES NOT catch the seller or the publisher by surprise under most, if not all circumstances. 

IF that is true, Twinkie or her attorney's drafting and overseeing the transition agreement or sale of sample, would have also been given the vision of use for the sample and how her music would be used and what her music would in essence be promoting. That leads me to this 

The "Church Girl" Sample Difference 

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

 As stated, nobody blames Twinkie or anyone else for the "come up". God gives gifts and some of those gifts can be used to pay the bills. However, THIS TIME...there is and was a specific message directed towards the church and in particularly the women and young women of the church by the Sampl(ee) or PURCHASER. THIS is the PROBLEM!

It is without question that this song, "Church Girl" is a song which, like many of Beyonce's songs, encourages promiscuity and debase actions. This one in particular, seeks to call young women, FROM Holiness or the "Center Of God's Will" to LUST, HEDONISM, and degenerate behavior.

Mini-Analysis

The CHURCH GIRLS are called by Beyonce, to leave the position of prayer and seeking God to be THOTTY'S   aka: The Ho's Out There......According to Beyonce...this CHURCH GIRL that had been seeking the Lord and going through trials was supposed to let go, go to the PARTY (aka: world) and don't worry about anyone's judgment, but "Drop it" and "Pop it Like A Thotty"... and be a "loose" church girl and not a "bad" and "snotty" one and "let it out"..."twirl that ass" like she "came up from the South" (admonition to what we know as TWERKING and a stereotypical vision of Southern Black women being sexually promiscuous (although she didn't refer to race, the suggestion exists))...she should "get her racks up" (expose her breasts) and he should get his "math up" (aka: get hard or erect) as this CHURCH GIRL "backs it up" on him...and she should do these things regardless of whether she is planning on going to church or not, because "she is trying to do the best she can"...In other words, this admonition is one of empathy, because this girl has no husband and even if she does, she was born "free" and needs to do something for "herself"...then don't be afraid to get paid for your actions (blank check) and be a prostitute "do it baby", "stick it baby" and in the end, Beyonce isn't trying to hurt anyone but "trying to bring life within your body" 

 So Beyonce's thoughts suggest that these CHURCH GIRLS have no life! 

The DEVIL IS A LIAR!

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

As we can see, this song, using this particular sample, is NOT merely about music. It is about 2 diametrically opposed world views. It is about to POLAR OPPOSITE visions and views of life. one, where the life is subject to God, that is living in HIS servitude, and the alternate that seeks to serve self, if not always, then for times, when there can be a "letting down of the hair" and a less intense view of life itself. one in which these GIRLS and LADIES can give themselves to devils as some sort of pressure valve release to the flesh...

Romans 8:6 ~ For to be carnally minded is death, but to be spiritually minded is
life and peace.

Conclusion:

Bishop Wooden was so on point in his analysis and it is GOD that used him to observe and bring this EVIL to the surface. With all of what is going on, our young people and Saints in general need to know that the position of prayer is the right position and that God is still God and will answer prayer and is soon to come. 

Twinkie DID NOT and DOES NOT need Beyonce to be relevant in any way. 

Obviously there are individuals seeking to undertake the issue and they are blind, held in the flesh and following friendship with the world so tightly that they cannot divest themselves from it. 

1 John 2:15 ~ Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him.

They know little or nothing of SANCTIFICATION and HOLINESS and if they do, they have been seduced by the god of this world into aligning themselves with his deceptive and degenerate vision for the human condition of life. 

It remains SAD that our leadership within the church in general has been so easily seduced into non discernment of truth, right and reality. What judgement we face from a GOD who is not simply some low life charlatan passing by, begging for friends...HE IS GOD and he deserves not only worship, but our very best in response to HIS being. 

Joshua 24:15 ~ And if it seem evil unto you to serve the LORD, choose you this day whom ye will serve; whether the gods which your fathers served that were on the other side of the flood, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land ye dwell: but as for me and my house,
we will serve the LORD.

This Pastor and Supt. WILL and HAS, repented of sins and faults and will forever seek the Lord without compromise of HOLINESS which seems to have taken a back seat to humanism even within the holiness church and as people examine this issue. Thank God we can clearly see the sign of the time and the great falling away from truth.

One more question...how can we be in consecrated prayer and CUSS at or to God, put it in a song and think it's OK? This is SAD!

Blessed!

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A 2018 Message & Response To Our Youth Pt. 1

Recently, after an all day high school, holiday basketball event, my wife and I were doing the "transport people home" thing, as somehow we occasionally get pegged to do this for some of the students that attend events, but who have no way home (for some reason), or whose home is just a little too far away to walk especially at night or during evening hours in the inner city. 

On this particular evening, I asked one of the young ladies, "What church do you go to?" 

She responded by saying, "I don't go to church"...

I said, "Really!?" 

Due to the apparent shock in my voice, she responded, "Why? Does that sound strange? There's a lot of us that don't go to church." 

She concluded by saying, "Plus, I don't have time for all that judgment anyway, I don't want to go to church and all them people judging me"..."So I read my bible and all, and believe in God, but I don't go to church"

Now, I wish I could say that my response was just so poignant that after dropping her off at home she quickly put on her church shoes and sat there waiting for our next service to begin, but that wasn't the case. 

My Initial Response

Immediately, I began to tell the young lady about the distinction between Jesus, the head of the church, and the human and flawed people within the church, explaining that Jesus is the object of faith, not the people, and that invariably humans will always fail.

I believe that is standard jargon from those of us who have been in the church for any length of time. 

I am sure that like her, you too can identify a bunch of folk that sometimes don't do right and that don't intend to do right and that even damage others either by misjudgments, the shoddy and raggedy lives that they live or by the fire of borderline hate and condemnation that they breath on others in the "name of the Lord". So in a sense, she was certainly right...too many times, it's the people IN the church that keep people on the outside, especially young people, away from the church. 

And the liberalism that the church adopts to "draw" the youth doesn't help either. Most young people I know consider the church greater hypocrites for mimicking the world while saying that they are different and unique from the world...Being and conducting ones self in the same manner as the world and attaching Jesus to those actions, as if that makes it OK, is NOT different, neither does it represent God's holiness. It seems that even the world doesn't want a fake! 

Thankfully, abandoning or staying away from church, is not my household issue and does not have to be the issue of others. As parents, even in modern time, you can live and love so until your kids being a part of the church is not a problem. It can be an expectation even as it is to my children. Church and church attendance can be a natural and normal way of life, and one that is comfortable to and with youth and young people, and knowing Jesus can be and should be something cherished by every generation of believer, from youth to aged. That is certainly in biblical order. 

In part 1 I will point our a few things that may be more of interest to adults who are in or a part of the church and in Pt. 2 I will deal more carefully with the young lady's retort and observation.  

Observance Of Topsy-Turvy Practices Within The Faith Community 

We are living in a society that may or may not be experiencing a decline in church attendance depending upon whom you talk to. Those statistical conflicts and information can be found HERE. No matter what you believe however, we should all be concerned about the current condition, welfare, and future of the church, because the past has revealed some serious flaws that may make the church as an institution fall in line with other irrelevant societal organizations if it is not careful.  

I believe that she (the student) speaks for a great number of young people. Those of us who are a part of the church readily see an absurd relationship of the church within society to some degree. 

Like you, I see excess, as some, claiming to be church leaders or otherwise church participants, live off the top, some apparently as kings, and on the backs of those who are involved with the daily struggle of life within the church.

Pastor Elvis Mbonye says
"Kiss my feet in honor of me"

Over the years, I've noticed for the truly "connected" (or at least so they appear to be) there is somehow always an excuse for their sins. Whether they be sins of lust, covetousness or something else, there is an excuse. There is a seeming demand that we (followers) don't look at the sins of these leaders or even talk about the fact that they, for example, abandoned wives and children for secretaries, destroyed churches and families trying to do the right thing by being faithful within their community of faith, by personal sins, molested children and sexually harassed church members and staff and the list goes on...

We observe a system turned completely on its head. In some cases very little accountability and even a smaller demand for integrity. A system in which those who are so called "servants" are being served and treating congregations and members as slaves. It is certainly a superiority complex or something to similar. 

For example, not too long ago, one charlatan basically said that people who didn't have a "major platform" couldn't call her into accountability. I suppose that she felt that her ability to appear on a cable network qualified as a "major platform" and only them on the "same level" could offer any pertinent information to her. This was as if she were some princess who could only be corrected by "kings" I suppose...WHAT A MESS!!!! That's certainly not being a servant, that just FLESH, STUPIDITY and superiority!

Sometimes, not all the time, but sometimes, it is the leaders who are living in and seeking excess that are the one's who get the "good seats" while you, who pay your money and volunteer exorbitant amounts of time to support it all, can't hardly get in the door or secure a seat. You are being told to help pay for Lear Jets and expensive cars, while begging for the church van to come get you on time for service "IF" a van is available for transportation at all. 

One can observe whole communities of faith that are disengaged and really don't understand the culture in which they are dealing because, in some cases, their membership has gotten older and detached from what is actually going on within society and within families related to the church and there is no energy to engage or do anything differently. 

The Changing Dynamic Of The Family

Profound community activist, Star Parker in an online article at Creators.com entitled "Marriage Collapse: White & Black" carefully outlines while people generally contend to be religious, especially within the Black community as a whole, the fact is that they are marrying less and less. She states:

Star Parker

"We get one hint in the new Pew report. Forty-eight percent of nonwhites, compared with 33 percent of whites, indicate they want to get married but say financial instability is the main reason that they have not. 

Why are blacks, on average, decidedly more financially unstable? One factor, which must be taken into account, is the disproportionate impact of the welfare state following the civil rights movement. Major welfare programs established in the late 1960s, which required recipients to be unmarried to qualify, followed shortly thereafter by the legalization of abortion in 1973, had a devastating effect on the black family. 

Data we have today should provoke a sense of urgency to focus policy on reversing the damage done by years of programs that have hurt the very low-income communities they were supposed to help. We need policies that protect life, and encourage marriage, ownership and individual responsibility."

With all of this said, is the church aware of the number of children in foster care? Although that number is down from its peek of over a half million children in 2002 to now just over 425,000 to 530,000 depending upon your resource, does anyone within the church care what that sort of detachment of children from their parents and history is actually doing to the spiritual integrity, morality and values of a generation of kids growing up within modern society? There are a wealth of foster children floating from home to home, experiencing sexual and physical abuse at the hands of individuals who are no better than the parents from whom the children were taken. 

HG.org Legal Resources in an online article, "Sexual Abuse: An Epidemic in Foster care Settings?" referenced a John Hopkins study stating the following:

"A study by John Hopkins University found that children who are in foster care are four times more likely to be sexually abused than other children not in this setting. Additionally, children who are in group homes are 28 times more likely to be abused than children not living in these homes."

That observation alone is the simultaneous reason that the number of children being born into single parent families is near 67% among Black women. Contrary to the assertion of many critics of the Black community, it appears that public policy lends to many Black women and men either delaying marriage or not getting married at all as opposed to the "moral crisis" that we often hear that is the case. What we can note in nearly any inner city setting is that many of those mothers appear to be younger and younger. 

What i wonder, is has the church considered that children raising children is not an idea, concept or arrangement that facilitates church growth or a healthy community?

Communication

I wonder is the church aware, that out of some 3,800 text messages sent and received on average per month by teenagers (ages 13- 17) on their electronic devices, that many of those messages use profane language, are sexually explicit in nature and sometimes have pornographic depictions and content? 

While the so called "leaders" are demanding Jets to fly around the country, or an additional tax free, allowance to pay for houses and cars and an entourage complete with cloned protegees to follow them, has the church and its leadership seriously considered what the bombardment of that sort of perversion that has targeted our youth actually done to their young minds and brains from a pathological point of view and what it (the church) must do in order to counter the effects of such damaging displays and communication?

The Hand That Rocks The Cradle   

Then, how about the unreported "latch-key" children, who are not in foster care, but basically raise themselves, preparing their own food and prepping for school everyday? These children do this either because parents are at work (some of these parents are good parents, just over-stressed and overburdened because the cost of living is so extremely high), or on drugs, or seeking companionship dangling on the promises of lovers whether they be married or single, or who just simply don't otherwise take the time to raise a child, but yet takes advantage of tax benefits, SNAP (food stamps) and or other welfare benefits. Then there are some [DIRTY DOGS!] who, trade their children in exchange for cash for part-time sexual sale to family members and friends usually for drugs or drug money. 

The Mission Field Of The Church

YES, the culture within which the church has to operate in 2018, has changed. The people to whom the church has to minister have changed. The values to which the church has to speak, are values which the modern church has not encountered in like fashion, with the complexities that it has been given, since it has existed within America. 

One thing is for sure, the church cannot continue to do what it has done and expect to meet our communities at the point of its need. We must abandon methods based and rooted in bad tradition and adopt methods, yet distinct from the world, but methods which uphold righteousness and delineate the difference between what is holy and that which is unholy. Our focus and center must be done in an effective, God fearing, and God honoring manner. The message of holiness and the power of the Spirit of the Lord has never been in more demand within our communities than it is now. 

Conferences won't save us. Titles and positions mean nothing! Call yourself whatever title you wish. NONE of those things will enlighten or impress today's youth, or our communities nor will they restore our families. The ONLY thing that will do that is God through and by his WORD, the further proclamation of diligent truth, and the power of HIS Spirit!

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

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

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

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

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

Before one goes on to hail their belief system (denomination or theological system) as something that exempts or insulates their church or organization from SIN and misdeeds of men and women, please keep in mind that abuse is not a denominational nor doctrinal issue. From Catholic to Protestant belief systems, one can preach, teach and believe what one wishes, and unfortunately abuse occurs. 

Three companies that insure the majority of Protestant churches in America say they typically receive upward of 260 reports each year of young people under 18 being sexually abused by clergy, church staff, volunteers or congregation members." ~ Insurance Journal 6/2007

It is important to realize that church related abuse, which can be in any form, is a pervasive and sometimes systemic issue that begins in close quarters, security and what should otherwise be sacred relationships, only to end up in frustration, turmoil and sacrilege with an ultimate result of creating distance between men and one another as well as between men and God. 

Identifying The Roots & Preventing Potential Abuse

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Surprising to many, this is probably one of our most discussed type of situations that we hear. A single woman, with or without children, attending a church and a "man" feels that she has a "duty" to be accountable to him or them because he or they are men. This type of misinterpretation seems to stem from the erroneous interpretation of 1 Cor. 11:3 which says:

"But I would have you know, that the head of every man is Christ; and the head of the woman is the man; and the head of Christ is God."

As stated an erroneous interpretation of this verse is that a woman, because she is a woman and single, is supposed to automatically "obey" and "honor" everything that "a man" tells her especially when that man is her "spiritual leader". In some cases, men will talk down to a woman, especially a single woman and think nothing of it and condemn her for speaking up for herself claiming that she is out of order. Further, and more so importantly, in some cases there is a belief that a woman, should "be in subjection to her "leader" simply because she "should" and because he tells her so. If one thinks education and credentials make the difference here, you would be wrong. Folk that do this do this regardless of the education level of the women that they speak to and in many cases the women or "subject" bows down thinking that they are being humble.  

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

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

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

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

I have spoken to and received calls from many women who claim that this type of sentiment was rehearsed to them prior to abuse. The person in authority, usually the pastor or some other ministerial leader, would suggest that the woman and in some cases the man, clear their actions with them first or at the very least make a report to them for their "benefit", "blessing" or "security". If this reporting does not occur, there will be some sort of indirect or even direct counseling sessions or at the very least stern words and in some cases a demand for an apology. This would be usually followed by some way to make amends in which case small demands may lead to larger, more inappropriate demands over time.

As we can observe, this is another way to modify behavior and in some cases ultimately manipulate the mind by creating shame, guilt, and second thoughts over situations and personal decisions. In addition, these type of sentiments can lead to physical abuse. Sentiments such as these are ungodly and are not a biblically ordained manner in which one should deal with anyone in the church. Yet we find some that continue to experience this type of response from authorities within the church. Unfortunately, some have become so accustomed to this sort of reasoning that they think it is normal and make no complaints until it is too late.

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

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

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

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

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

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

5- Ministry & Auxiliary Leaders...Double Up And Change Them Consistently

GuideOne Insurance Co. (West Des Moines, IA) reported around “160 reports of sex abuse against minors every year for two decades.”​

Contrary to popular belief, pastors are not the primary individual bringing abuse into the fold.  As noted above, the SIN of abuse is also conducted by volunteers in ministry or persons associated with the ministry. Two methods recommended by professionals that can be implemented to help avoid and prevent potential abuse of children in the ministry is to: 

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

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

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

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

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

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

6- Do Not Allow Children To "Find Their Own Path" In Dealing With Others Children

For the period 2003-2008 criminal prosecutors reported a nearly 300% increase in reports of "peer-to-peer" abuse.

Abuse from child to child is also known as "peer to peer" abuse. Children are not and should not be self monitors. Some children and even some adults are unable to make value based decisions that facilitate the best possible outcome. I believe that singer Kirk Franklin once stated that he was introduced to drugs in a church parking lot by way of someone else in church. Children abusing children and introducing others to abuse or abusive situations is nothing to take lightly and is a very serious issue within the context of the church.

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

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

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

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

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

Conclusion

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

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

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

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

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

Blessed!         

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Seduced Church: The Prostitution, & Sale Of The Psalmist

Gospel Artists 

Dial 666 To Make A Deal

Matthew 4:8-11 ~ 8-Again, the devil taketh him up into an exceeding high mountain, and sheweth him all the kingdoms of the world, and the glory of them; 9-And saith unto him, All these things will I give thee, if thou wilt fall down and worship me. 10-Then saith Jesus unto him, Get thee hence, Satan: for it is written, Thou shalt worship the Lord thy God, and him only shalt thou serve. 11-Then the devil leaveth him, and, behold, angels came and ministered unto him.

One thing is for certain. as we have already established...the gospel minister is in trouble...we have seen the meltdown and breakdown...In my Hip-hop Idolatry & The Church Series #9,  I have taken a look into the world of music cross-overs. As noted in the post over the years we have seen artists that have gone from gospel to secular music and from secular to gospel music and such the like. As I noted then, it is a tragedy and it still is a tragedy. 

Secularism: When The World Looks Good & Considerations Of God Become Small

The term secularism can be defined in the following manner:

1. Religious skepticism or indifference.
2. The view that religious considerations should be excluded from civil affairs or public education

Our friends at Real Zone allowed a pastor to define secularism highlighting it's spiritual implications as follows:

“Secularism is a movement that opposes God and everything that is associated with God. Secularism promotes independence from God. It removes God from people’s thoughts, the educational system and from programs and policies. It is, therefore, wrong for anybody to criticize or label as secular, an artist that sings a song which is not blasphemous of God or his commandments. “

Secularism is more in line with a culture or a world view. A way of doing things that does not allow the influence of God or Biblical based moral decisions to come into play. The artist or individual is pursuing a "career" using the instruments that belong to God with no consideration for HIM and when there is consideration it is usually a reinterpretation of material facts to suit. 

The problem is further summed up like this...folk that only have a gift and a place because of God, fail to subject and submit that gift to God in favor of money, fame and worldly accolade and career advancement. They have cheapened themselves by using their gifts inappropriately and even against God to favor, honor and support an anti-Christ industry of secularism displayed through music and various forms of entertainment. 

Evil Communication Corrupts Good Manners (1 Cor. 15:33)

I mean look at it...we have gospel artists and even leaders and administrators of organizational music departments such as pastor Kim Burrell, Assistant International Music Director in the Church Of God In Christ, who has not only said that she wants to "sing with Prince", because she feels that he is "anointed"(what a JOKE!) but has also made career decisions and moves in union with homosexuals such as Krishnar Lewis (Lewis Agency) to not only produce music, and videos, but also the show "Whatever It Takes" The title is all in it as Kim says:

"I'll do 'whatever it takes' to sustain the momentum of my success, as long as I have my dream team" ~ video promo

Unfortunately, Kirshnar now has stage 4 rectal cancer that has metastasized from what has been said in the video, so it is a wonder how long this relationship will continue or go on. We do pray from Krishnar's salvation. In short there will be at least 2 persons whom pastor Burrell will have been around that is in serious need of a move of God, but yet she seems focused on the "momentum" of her "success" as she does not apparently want that hindered in any way and will do anything to keep it going. 

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Is Smile...A Celebration Of Gay???

Now, could someone please tell me why this man is wearing pink lipstick? Is this camera sensitivity or a camera trick?

Then there's former gay, Donnie McClurkin and I stand corrected, this is T.J. Holmes another CNN anchor. I don't think he's gay however.

Question yet stands, what is this...a Gay festival?

 Then who is it that fell from heaven?

"A power from heaven that I can't explain, fell from heaven like a shower".  

By the way the background of this video matches the Gay Pride Flag colors that was designed by Gilbert Barker. Is Kirk simply sending a message that Gays have no reason to be discouraged, or is he sending a message of gay inclusion?

I think some answers are in order.

Blessed!

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The Celebration Of Secular Seduction

Last year, when I wrote the Idolatrous Celebration Of Steve, I said to myself that I wasn't going to try to keep up with the "evil" that BET calls the Celebration Of Gospel. I had pretty much made up my mind that it really wasn't worth taking the time to point out the flat out riotousness that this so called Gospel celebration of music has gone to in order to mass market and appeal to the people. However, after watching the show and looking at the subtitle "Keeping the Faith",  I said that I must at least speak on some aspects of this years stage performance and obvious battle to confuse the mind, especially since the aim was to "Keeping The Faith". The first observation was that it was very hard to see that anyone knew what the "faith" really is. Yes, all this was, was a stage performance. The whole thing was devoid of anything that defines "the faith" or anything that I am aware of that was spiritual or even gospel oriented in nature. In addition, it was also a seduction of the mind and spirit geared toward confusing and obfuscating the truth...even attempting to reverse what many hold to be truth...that there is and should be a difference between clean and unclean.

The Sale & The Roster

TV is about ratings for sure. If there is a small audience, advertising dollars will not flow. This is the first thing that we all must realize. The TRUE gospel doesn't sell, on a regular basis on TV. (at least many times although there are some exceptions) Nevertheless, this year's roster was filled with secular singers, as always, but in a little different position than normal. This year they were highlighted, featured and in an advanced position. From El Debarge and Howard Hewitt to Chaka Kahn (who didn't even try to sing a gospel song, choosing instead to sing her oldie "Through The Fire") to Kelley Price and ultimately to Whitney Houston, the primary focus was upon the secular singer. The grand event of the evening seemed to be when Whitney Houston took the stage along with new gospel gone secular star Kim Burrell. Remember, this was the same Kim Burrell who is yet the COGIC Assistant International Minister Of Music and the same one that wants to record with Prince...It seems that she was at home in her new element singing Whitney's song, "Look To You". Although it wasn't Prince, clearly the audience was excited about Whitney's return standing the whole time she sung and vigorously applauding at her performance. Well, Whitney is a consummate singer...of that there is no doubt, but should I remind you that this was a "gospel" event, not a secular event??? Supposedly...

To be fair the stage was filled with the usual and highly suspect gospel singers also. Suspect because so many appear of them appear to be gay. Even Kirk Franklin had on his standard nerd garb, along with Israel Houghton who seemed to also be caught up with a Jr. High/High school uniform fetish or infatuation that Tye Tribbit also espouses. I have no idea why grown men have such a desire to present themselves as teenagers and wear clothes that are too small for

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Hip-Hop, Idolatry, & The Church Pt. 5

Can Hip-Hop Be Redeemed?

The redemption of hip-hop has become an important question in the lives of many within the church. This is partially because hip-hop's messages and inculturations run so deeply that it is hardly distinguishable as a world view contrary to Christian spiritual growth and development.As pointed out in Hip-Hop, Idolatry & The Church Pt. 3 some individuals have claimed hip-hop to be an indigenous culture within America born from the depths of the souls and out of the genome of the black race. In fact one of the main proponents of this theory The Ambassador (aka William Duce Branch ThM) of the group The Cross Movement claims that culture (in this case hip hop) cannot be purged or separated from the people:

"People are at the root of culture, and neither people nor their culture can just be thrown away. Aspects of their culture can be discarded when those aspects offend God, but you cannot force total cultural assimilation on any group. You see it’s easy to throw away something you don’t care about, but it’s hard to let go of something you feel an attachment to."~ The Ambassador, The Christian Living In Hip-Hop Times Pt. 1 Oct. 2005

Along with this is the belief that a hip-hop message is essential to reaching the hip hop masses. As Kirk Franklin stated regarding his song entitled "I Like Me"

• "When you're trying to reach kids you've got to speak their language. Kids like beats, so I had to drop some like they was hot."

Still others believe that if nothing else there are "redeemable elements" of hip-hop which can be used to glorify God and reach the masses caught in sin. Remember the elements according to those who promote and develop hip-hop are as follows:

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

Most of the time Christians refer to what "good" that hip-hop seeks to provide or do as something that God can use. In other words, because hip-hop is (or can be) a peaceful way of expression, then maybe we can use the hip-hop method of expression to teach simply disregarding the worldly inculturation and it’s negative aspects.

An example of this is the efforts of Dr. Rani Whitfield who provides medical education with hip-hop flava. He founded the Hip-Hop Healthy Coalition as a way to "get involved in the culture and have some positive influence on it" and as a way to educate blacks and minorities who suffer from heart disease, hypertension, and strokes at a much greater per-capita rate than non minority individuals.

On a more confused note, there are others in the hip hop industry such as Pastor Troy, who have created a potpourri of mixed messages using biblical scriptures painted on street the street canvass in efforts to spread his version of "street knowledge".

As for the gospel music industry, another example is Pastor or Bishop Hezekiah Walker who is known as "The Hip-Hop Pastor": The article says the following about his nickname:

He got his nickname by hosting Sean Combs, Lil' Kim, Missy Elliot and other hip-hop artists at his church. The church is widely known for its Grammy Award-winning choir, which Walker leads.

Considerations

Contrary to what one may think, the purpose of this complete writing is not to minimize the efforts of those who seek to provide human services or better lives for individuals using non-traditional methods, but to shed light on the proper, biblical methodology of reaching and teaching the lost. I believe the efforts of individuals such as Dr. Whitfield and The Cross Movement and others in the "Christian" rap and arts industry are commendable, as they are seeking to promote the Christ message. The problem is that hip-hop has a clear definition of what it is and what it strives to be. Additionally, many of those who seek to promote the Christ message using hip-hop are forced to submit their practice, associations and lifestyles to hip-hop. In other words they are required to bow themselves down at the altar of another god in order to preach and promote the God of the bible. Is that what the church should be engaged in doing?

As good stewards, we must ask the questions, are these efforts to use the culture to reach the culture biblical, and does God want his church to use those elements or any variation of the elements in the promotion of his message of truth and light to the world? In other words, in the promotion of the Kingdom of Christ, does the end justify the means?

To the spiritually discerning, it is readily understood that hip-hop as is currently presented to the world, is a worldview that is antithetical to Christianity and godliness. The facts are that those that have defined hip-hop, including it’s founders have summarily consistently stated that hip-hop is a culture that includes social, spiritual and political agenda. This makes hip-hop a complete worldview.

Questions arise when we note individuals such as Dr. Whitfield. His message, although secular, does not promote a world-view of any sort. It simply sets forth messages of health and personal awareness. However does this methodology square biblically even in the promotion of secular messages? Does the methodology of Bishop Walker affirm the practice of inclusion and association within the church? Where is the church in general in this conundrum? More importantly where is the WORD in helping us to understand and distinguish the elements of sin from the elements of culture?

As you may already perceive this is a book, worthy of time and effort far greater than I will take to address here, however I will do my best to outline a few biblical concepts that should be able to assist you as you ponder these important questions. As a point of reference I also understand that some of you are looking for information for your personal and family situations and youth enamoured by the hip-hop industry. Still others of you have contacted me and asked how you can best bring this information to your pastor and church youth group without offending him and them. To assist you I will conclude this section by addressing a few common questions I hear as I preach, teach and write on this subject.

Biblical Insights:
An Encounter At Ephesus With The Culture

1 Cor. 15:32-34 ~ "32-If after the manner of men I have fought with beasts at Ephesus, what advantageth it me, if the dead rise not? let us eat and drink; for to morrow we die. 33-Be not deceived: evil communications corrupt good manners. 34-Awake to righteousness, and sin not; for some have not the knowledge of God: I speak this to your shame."

Apostle Paul in his teaching to the Corinthian church provides one of the most pivotal insights on the resurrection accorded within scripture. In this chapter Paul confirms his understanding that Jesus was raised from the dead bodily or physically and explains the mental and physical frustration of every Christian if the resurrection of Jesus did not occur. Paul affirms that Jesus is not a myth or merely a spiritual aberration. In verse 32 he explains his plight of having done everything possible to preach that message even to hostile crowds. He is referring to his experience recorded in Acts 19:24, during his third missionary journey, in which he was confronted with the culture of Ephesus. This culture was so steeped in the false religion of Diana or Artemis worship, and the buying and selling of statues and figurines that went along with that worship that the Townclerk in trying to save Paul’s life and abate a rising insurrection and possible retaliation of Rome if things got out of hand simply says,

v. 36 "Seeing then that these things cannot be spoken against, ye ought to be quiet and to do nothing rashly."

The Townclerk in speaking to the people suggests that their practices "could not be spoken against". This is the suggestion that what they believe is in accord with their culture. In a little more technical language, he is suggesting that the worship of their false God is indigenous to them. The people agreed that Diana was to be worshipped above all gods and that she was favored by her father Jupiter who had sent a statue dedicated to her that mysteriously appeared overnight as an approval. The mere mention that anyone was talking against Diana was a monetary death sentence to the silversmiths and slap in the face to those who lived within the culture.

A Second Point:

Back to Paul in verse 32 of 1 Cor. 15. Paul also invokes a scripture from Isaiah 22:13. This is often called Isaiah’s oracle concerning the valley of vision, in which God promises judgement upon Israel and in the face of that judgement, instead of repentance, the people continue to live selfishly, fulfill their own desires and disregard the word of God.

IS THAT 21ST CENTURY AMERICA OR WHAT?

As you can see that’s plenty of preachin’ material, but let’s stay on point...

This verse (32) is abruptly brought to an end by a reminder of v. 33…-Be not deceived: evil communications corrupt good manners"

Be not deceived- Planao me planao,(don’t be led astray or caused to wander in error) evil- kakos (bad nature or corrupted modes of thinking) communications- homilia (companionship or communion) corrupt- phtherio (corrupts or destroys) good- chrestos (a virtuous, good pleasant or useful) manners- ethos(character and morals)

Having evil associations bound together with money is the smoky, seemy, slithery, cocktail of destruction to Christian moral values and moral absolutism. The world and what it offers in one hand along with the cross of Christ in the other cannot be mixed to the creation of a new, subdued, quasi-sin/saint mixture of spiritually and socially acceptable service to both God and humanity. One worldview must die so that the other can take root and grow. Any growth of both together is the recreation of neither’s original value system. It is the equivalent of the creation of a dualistically natured monster who awaits for the opportune time to rear it’s head speaking dual languages and acting pluralistically but never fulfilling it’s duties and responsibilities and having no commitment or regard for those whom it tramples and uses to fulfill its desires.

1 John 2:15-17 ~ "5-Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him. 16-For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world. 17-And the world passeth away, and the lust thereof: but he that doeth the will of God abideth for ever."

There are three primary roots of sin in the world. John summarizes this as, lust of the flesh and eyes and the pride of life.

Additional Scriptural Insight Pt. 1:
The Replacement Of Canaan

Before one makes a conclusion that hip-hop can be used by God or in service to God a biblical precedent must be set. In other words there should be a compelling reason to engage hip-hop and give it credibility as both an indigenous culture and as an instrument worthy of God’s usage. Numbers or mass appeal is not simply enough as there has been mass appeal and social acceptance of many things historically that have proven to be ungodly and harmful to humanity.

I must say that upon examination, I don’t see that precedent anywhere in scripture. I do however see plenty of references of God rejecting certain cultures because they were sinful and did not glorify the true and living God.

From the beginning of the establishment of God’s plan among the nations HIS people have been warned not to embrace or allow the culture of the people to dictate the relationship of his sevants towards God. Once such example is found here:

Deut. 7:2-5~ "2-And when the LORD thy God shall deliver them before thee; thou shalt smite them, and utterly destroy them; thou shalt make no covenant with them, nor shew mercy unto them: 3-Neither shalt thou make marriages with them; thy daughter thou shalt not give unto his son, nor his daughter shalt thou take unto thy son. 4-For they will turn away thy son from following me, that they may serve other gods: so will the anger of the LORD be kindled against you, and destroy thee suddenly. 5-But thus shall ye deal with them; ye shall destroy their altars, and break down their images, and cut down their groves, and burn their graven images with fire."

The whole object of Israel’s blessing was spiritual and moral purity. There was a reason that the Cannanites were to be displaced. That reason was because they worshipped other gods, and were totally and completely morally depraved. The following is noted concerning the Canaanites:

• "The religion of these pagan people was basically a fertility cult. At temples scattered throughout their land, Canaanite worshipers actually participated in lewd, immoral acts with "sacred" prostitutes. Theirs was a depraved form of worship that appealed to the base instincts of sinful human nature. They also practiced human sacrifice, and their religion sanctioned unbelievable cruelty in warfare. In contrast, the Hebrews worshiped a holy God who insisted on purity and righteousness among His people." ~ Youngblood, Ronald F., General Editor; F.F. Bruce and R.K. Harrison, Consulting Editors, Nelson’s New Illustrated Bible Dictionary, (Nashville, TN: Thomas Nelson) 1997, c1995

The culture of the people was not redeemable. God did not wish to use any aspects of this culture in worship or service to him. Yes, there were souls at stake. Yes, there were lives in the balance. The lives in the balance were those who had covenantal relationship with God. In any case, the Canaanite world view was not to be molded into something acceptable to God. The children of Israel repeatedly suffered for and eventually lost their possession because of their disobedience. Yet the modern church with its modern leadership has a better way?

Additional Scriptural Insight Pt. 2:
Saul’s Disobedience Toward Amalek

1 Sam 15:3 ~ "3-Now go and smite Amalek, and utterly destroy all that they have, and spare them not; but slay both man and woman, infant and suckling, ox and sheep, camel and ass."

This was the command of the Lord to King Saul because of what the Amalekites had done to Israel by attacking their elderly and weak and being a "pirate" and antagonist in the wilderness, as recorded in Ex. 17:8-16, Num. 24:20 (as an oracle of Baalim), and Deut. 25:17-19. The culture and all of it’s remnants were to be destroyed no matter how godly any of it looked.

What Had Happen' Was…

1 Sam. 15:8-9 ~ "8-And he took Agag the king of the Amalekites alive, and utterly destroyed all the people with the edge of the sword. 9-But Saul and the people spared Agag, and the best of the sheep, and of the oxen, and of the fatlings, and the lambs, and all that was good, and would not utterly destroy them: but every thing that was vile and refuse, that they destroyed utterly."

Saul and his army began to make moral value judgements against the word of God. They looked and placed "value" upon what God had rejected for his own historical and purposeful reasons.

When questioned about his actions by Samuel, Saul responded with a nice religious answer and one that Christians trying to smuggle hip-hop into Christianity agree with:

1 Sam. 15:15 ~ "15And Saul said, They have brought them from the Amalekites: for the people spared the best of the sheep and of the oxen, to sacrifice unto the LORD thy God; and the rest we have utterly destroyed."

That which God had cursed, Saul thought to take the best of it and use it as a "sacrifice" unto the Lord??? Saul made the fatal mistake of assuming that there was something "good" that God could use and that the good was redeemable. His complete idea led him totally away form God and HIS plan for the people. This led to Saul’s ultimate nightmare…his total rejection:

1 Sam 15:22-23 ~ "22-And Samuel said, Hath the LORD as great delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices, as in obeying the voice of the LORD? Behold, to obey is better than sacrifice, and to hearken than the fat of rams. 23-For rebellion is as the sin of witchcraft, and stubbornness is as iniquity and idolatry. Because thou hast rejected the word of the LORD, he hath also rejected thee from being king."

God didn’t want anything that Amalek had to offer. There was to be a complete purging of the sins of Amalek from the land and from among the people of God. Amalek was not to be redeemed in any way.

I think I'll stop there and save Section 3 and the answeres to popular questions for post 6. We're not finished yet by any means. God bless.

Blessed!

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