Saturday, March 30, 2013

Ishtar/Easter



This is but a primer, you have to go further into personal study to fully understand what Ishtar/Easter is all about. This is a fascinating subject as well as disturbing. My wish and only wish is to point you in the right direction.

*Spring Equinox-The sun is resurrected and gains prominence over the night. Fertility celebrations involving symbols such as the eff and prolific hare-Easter*

*Passover-Spring-Speaks of redemption. Messiah, the Passover Lamb, would be sacrificed for us*

The story of Easter is a tumultuous one at best. Easter has always confused me. I remember as a child making Easter baskets, some times going on Easter hunts. While my parents were not religious, I do remember receiving large Easter baskets filled with toys, what’s not to like about that, I didn’t know or care for that matter the significance. Later that night for whatever reason we would sit around and watch the 10 Commandments movie.

Today Easter is the highest of all biblical or Christian celebrations, it is the day of his Jesus(Yeshua) Resurrection. Since he rose early people tend to have sunrise services, this is attributed to the sun worship of pagans, this is nothing new. The Prophet Ezekiel mentions it,

15 Then said he unto me, Hast thou seen this, O son of man? turn thee yet again, and thou shalt see greater abominations than these.

16 And he brought me into the inner court of the Lord’s house, and, behold, at the door of the temple of the Lord, between the porch and the altar, were about five and twenty men, with their backs toward the temple of the Lord, and their faces toward the east; and they worshiped the sun toward the east Ezekiel 8:15-16

The question remain, what’s wrong with Easter? Since it isn’t represented within the scriptures, we should do one of two things. First see what is written about Easter and Second, what is written about Nimrod. The two go hand in hand. To better understand this confusing issue, we have to take it one step at a time using simple deduction.

Names within scripture have always had significant meanings. Take the name Nimrod for instance. It comes from the Hebrew verb “marab” meaning to “Rebel”or “The Rebel.”

8 Cush begot Nimrod; he began to be a mighty one on the earth. 9 He was a mighty hunter before the Lord; therefore it is said, “Like Nimrod the mighty hunter before the Lord.” 10 And the beginning of his kingdom was Babel, Erech, Accad, and Calneh, in the land of Shinar(Gen 10:8-10).

This scripture speaks of Nimrod as a mighty hunter before the Lord. This could mean he was a hunter of beast or of Men. We know Nimrod established a kingdom. We also know Nimrod understood the prophesy about a babe to be born to be a ruler. As the story goes, the star gazers noticed a new star rising in the east. Every night it grew brighter. Nimrod had a meeting with the magicians and astrologers. They agreed a new baby was being born to challenge his rule. To prevent this all new baby boys would be killed. The babe to be born to his humble servant Terah is Abraham. To prove himself Nimrod used his gifts for evil selfish gain. He used fear of the wild beast to unite the people. He taught them how to hunt and how to build walls around the city for protection. He also convinced the people to look upon him as the Lord of the Earth instead of the true God, with this cunning he established the kingdom of Babel. Nimrods Babel is somewhat disputed:

11 Now the whole world had one language and a common speech. 2 As people moved eastward,[a] they found a plain in Shinar[b] and settled there.

3 They said to each other, “Come, let’s make bricks and bake them thoroughly.” They used brick instead of stone, and tar for mortar. 4 Then they said, “Come, let us build ourselves a city, with a tower that reaches to the heavens, so that we may make a name for ourselves; otherwise we will be scattered over the face of the whole earth.”

5 But the Lord came down to see the city and the tower the people were building. 6 The Lord said, “If as one people speaking the same language they have begun to do this, then nothing they plan to do will be impossible for them. 7 Come, let us go down and confuse their language so they will not understand each other.”

8 So the Lord scattered them from there over all the earth, and they stopped building the city. 9 That is why it was called Babel[c]—because there the Lord confused the language of the whole world. From there the Lord scattered them over the face of the whole earth(Gen 11:2-9). This could be associated with or to Nimrod. This structure was a man made structure with the temple at the top, built to worship the “the host of heaven,” also to thwart God’s plan so if another flood occurs he Nimrod would be safe.

God whom is a jealous God speaks of concerning the “queen of heaven”

17 Do you not see what they do in the cities of Judah and in the streets of Jerusalem? 18 The children gather wood, the fathers kindle the fire, and the women knead dough, to make cakes for the queen of heaven; and they pour out drink offerings to other gods, that they may provoke Me to anger. 19 Do they provoke Me to anger?” says the Lord. “Do they not provoke themselves, to the shame of their own faces?”

20 Therefore thus says the Lord God: “Behold, My anger and My fury will be poured out on this place—on man and on beast, on the trees of the field and on the fruit of the ground. And it will burn and not be quenched”(Jer 7:17-20).

Jeremiah warned of the consequences

16 “As for the word that you have spoken to us in the name of the Lord, we will not listen to you! 17 But we will certainly do whatever has gone out of our own mouth, to burn incense to the queen of heaven and pour out drink offerings to her, as we have done, we and our fathers, our kings and our princes, in the cities of Judah and in the streets of Jerusalem. For then we had plenty of food, were well-off, and saw no trouble. 18 But since we stopped burning incense to the queen of heaven and pouring out drink offerings to her, we have lacked everything and have been consumed by the sword and by famine.”

19 The women also said, “And when we burned incense to the queen of heaven and poured out drink offerings to her, did we make cakes for her, to worship her, and pour out drink offerings to her without our husbands’ permission?”

20 Then Jeremiah spoke to all the people—the men, the women, and all the people who had given him that answer—saying: 21 “The incense that you burned in the cities of Judah and in the streets of Jerusalem, you and your fathers, your kings and your princes, and the people of the land, did not the Lord remember them, and did it not come into His mind? 22 So the Lord could no longer bear it, because of the evil of your doings and because of the abominations which you committed. Therefore your land is a desolation, an astonishment, a curse, and without an inhabitant, as it is this day. 23 Because you have burned incense and because you have sinned against the Lord, and have not obeyed the voice of the Lord or walked in His law, in His statutes or in His testimonies, therefore this calamity has happened to you, as at this day” (Jer 44:16-23).

The “host of heaven” is the worship of the sun, moon, and stars (Gen 2:1). This brings us to Nimrods wife Semiramis(highest heaven), in some writings she was Nimrods wife as well as mother. The word “son” probably means “descendant”. Even though she the Queen of Babylon or the Babylon system, it doesn’t mean she married her son to continue in power, this is debatable, however, we do know she was the wife of Cush. As the story continues or tradition, Nimrod became a god like man to the people, his wife/mother became Queen of Babylon. Nimrod was killed by an powerful enemy and his body was cut into many pieces and sent to various parts of his kingdom. Semiramis had all the pieces gathered except for one part that couldn’t be found. Supposedly his reproductive organ couldn’t be found, without the organ Nimrod couldn’t come back to life, rumor has it he ascended to the sun which was now being called Baal the sun god. The back story to the mystery of why and how Nimrod was murdered was Shem. Shem gathered 72 men to help him capture Nimrod. Shem killed Nimrod and cut his body into little pieces. He told his men to take a piece of the body to the cities under his rule. Shems purposes was to turn the people to the true God. Semiramis taught she was immaculately conceived, she also taught the moon was a goddess that went through a 28 day cycle and ovulated when full. She further claimed that she came down from the  sky in a giant egg that fell into the Euphrates river. This occurred during the time of the first full moon after the spring Equinox. Tradition yet again teaches she was pregnant by a holy spirit or from an adulterous relationship. To better under why many believe Christianity copied other religions take a look at Mithraism:Relationship with Christianity. This occurred during the time of the first full moon after the spring Equinox. Semiramis became none other than Ishtar which is pronounced Easter. She soon became pregnant, she claimed the rays for the sun god Baal caused her to conceive. The child that came about was Tammuz. Tammuz like his father Nimrod, now Baal was also a great hunter, also Tammuz was fond of rabbits. He was eaten by a wild pig, which proves to be disturbing since he was a great hunter. To remember Tammuz death Semiramis created a forty day period of time of sorrow each year prior to the anniversary of his death. This is also where we get the erroneous celebration of Lent.

The false teachings of Babylon stays with us today, as the so called Church doesn’t challenge but teaches the false doctrine of Ishtar/Easter. Here’s but another example of the compromising Church. Ever wonder why Easter is erroneously translated Easter in the KJV.  Teachers say Act 12:4 speaks of King Herod was planing to celebrate Easter; not Christians. Never the less, with this explanation, Easter is still erroneous. The Emphatic Diaglott is a transliteration directly from the original Greek says Diaglott(i) 4 whom also having seized he placed into a prison, having delivered to four sets of four soldiers to watch him, intending after the PASSOVER to lead out him to the people (Acts 12:4).

Easter isn’t about:

Rabbits-One of the animals associated with the pagan goddess Ishtar. It was a symbol of productivity and fertility.

Eggs-A symbol of productivity and fertility. The creation has inherent life within itself and developed without and apart from and ever living creator. The egg is a symbol of serpent worship! It is a symbol of self creation apart from God/Yahweh. It is a symbol of darkness and deceit rather than light and truth.

Hot Cross Buns-Used in the worship of the “queen of heaven, the goddess Ishtar/Easter. Also denounced by the Prophet Jeremiah(Lev 2:11).

Easter Ham-First, we shouldn’t be eating pork of any kind. This animal was the offering of choice for those pagans who were too poor to offer a pic at the festival honoring “the queen of heaven.’ The Prophet Isaiah wrote about this pratice(Isa 65:3-5).

Easter Sunrise Worship-Easter was the name of the goddess of dawn and was worshiped  at the dawning of the sun. In which God/Yahweh referred to as an abomination(Ezekiel 8:15-16).

Lent-Mentioned above

Good Friday-Jesus/Yashua was killed on the execution stake on Wednesday afternoon, not Friday. Refer to the Bullinger’s time line below.

Jeremiah 10:2 teaches

2 Thus says the Lord:

“Do not learn the way of the Gentiles;
Do not be dismayed at the signs of heaven,
For the Gentiles are dismayed at them.

Also we can’t forget God’s warning against false gods.

29 “When the Lord your God cuts off from before you the nations which you go to dispossess, and you displace them and dwell in their land, 30 take heed to yourself that you are not ensnared to follow them, after they are destroyed from before you, and that you do not inquire after their gods, saying, ‘How did these nations serve their gods? I also will do likewise.’ 31 You shall not worship the Lord your God in that way; for every abomination to the Lord which He hates they have done to their gods; for they burn even their sons and daughters in the fire to their gods.

32 “Whatever I command you, be careful to observe it; you shall not add to it nor take away from it(Deut 12:29-32).

The first Passover happened in the book of Exodus in chapter 12. Read the account for yourselves

The Passover Instituted

12 Now the Lord spoke to Moses and Aaron in the land of Egypt, saying, 2 “This month shall be your beginning of months; it shall be the first month of the year to you. 3 Speak to all the congregation of Israel, saying: ‘On the tenth of this month every man shall take for himself a lamb, according to the house of his father, a lamb for a household. 4 And if the household is too small for the lamb, let him and his neighbor next to his house take it according to the number of the persons; according to each man’s need you shall make your count for the lamb. 5 Your lamb shall be without blemish, a male of the first year. You may take it from the sheep or from the goats. 6 Now you shall keep it until the fourteenth day of the same month. Then the whole assembly of the congregation of Israel shall kill it at twilight. 7 And they shall take some of the blood and put it on the two doorposts and on the lintel of the houses where they eat it. 8 Then they shall eat the flesh on that night; roasted in fire, with unleavened bread and with bitter herbs they shall eat it. 9 Do not eat it raw, nor boiled at all with water, but roasted in fire—its head with its legs and its entrails. 10 You shall let none of it remain until morning, and what remains of it until morning you shall burn with fire. 11 And thus you shall eat it: with a belt on your waist, your sandals on your feet, and your staff in your hand. So you shall eat it in haste. It is the Lord’s Passover.

12 ‘For I will pass through the land of Egypt on that night, and will strike all the firstborn in the land of Egypt, both man and beast; and against all the gods of Egypt I will execute judgment: I am the Lord. 13 Now the blood shall be a sign for you on the houses where you are. And when I see the blood, I will pass over you; and the plague shall not be on you to destroy you when I strike the land of Egypt.

14 ‘So this day shall be to you a memorial; and you shall keep it as a feast to the Lord throughout your generations. You shall keep it as a feast by an everlasting ordinance. 15 Seven days you shall eat unleavened bread. On the first day you shall remove leaven from your houses. For whoever eats leavened bread from the first day until the seventh day, that person shall be cut off from Israel. 16 On the first day there shall be a holy convocation, and on the seventh day there shall be a holy convocation for you. No manner of work shall be done on them; but that which everyone must eat—that only may be prepared by you. 17 So you shall observe the Feast of Unleavened Bread, for on this same day I will have brought your armies out of the land of Egypt. Therefore you shall observe this day throughout your generations as an everlasting ordinance. 18 In the first month, on the fourteenth day of the month at evening, you shall eat unleavened bread, until the twenty-first day of the month at evening. 19 For seven days no leaven shall be found in your houses, since whoever eats what is leavened, that same person shall be cut off from the congregation of Israel, whether he is a stranger or a native of the land. 20 You shall eat nothing leavened; in all your dwellings you shall eat unleavened bread.’”

21 Then Moses called for all the elders of Israel and said to them, “Pick out and take lambs for yourselves according to your families, and kill the Passover lamb. 22 And you shall take a bunch of hyssop, dip it in the blood that is in the basin, and strike the lintel and the two doorposts with the blood that is in the basin. And none of you shall go out of the door of his house until morning. 23 For the Lord will pass through to strike the Egyptians; and when He sees the blood on the lintel and on the two doorposts, the Lord will pass over the door and not allow the destroyer to come into your houses to strike you. 24 And you shall observe this thing as an ordinance for you and your sons forever. 25 It will come to pass when you come to the land which the Lord will give you, just as He promised, that you shall keep this service. 26 And it shall be, when your children say to you, ‘What do you mean by this service?’ 27 that you shall say, ‘It is the Passover sacrifice of the Lord, who passed over the houses of the children of Israel in Egypt when He struck the Egyptians and delivered our households.’” So the people bowed their heads and worshiped. 28 Then the children of Israel went away and did so; just as the Lord had commanded Moses and Aaron, so they did.

The Tenth Plague: Death of the Firstborn

29 And it came to pass at midnight that the Lord struck all the firstborn in the land of Egypt, from the firstborn of Pharaoh who sat on his throne to the firstborn of the captive who was in the dungeon, and all the firstborn of livestock. 30 So Pharaoh rose in the night, he, all his servants, and all the Egyptians; and there was a great cry in Egypt, for there was not a house where there was not one dead.

The Exodus

31 Then he called for Moses and Aaron by night, and said, “Rise, go out from among my people, both you and the children of Israel. And go, serve the Lord as you have said. 32 Also take your flocks and your herds, as you have said, and be gone; and bless me also.”

33 And the Egyptians urged the people, that they might send them out of the land in haste. For they said, “We shall all be dead.” 34 So the people took their dough before it was leavened, having their kneading bowls bound up in their clothes on their shoulders. 35 Now the children of Israel had done according to the word of Moses, and they had asked from the Egyptians articles of silver, articles of gold, and clothing. 36 And the Lord had given the people favor in the sight of the Egyptians, so that they granted them what they requested. Thus they plundered the Egyptians.

37 Then the children of Israel journeyed from Rameses to Succoth, about six hundred thousand men on foot, besides children. 38 A mixed multitude went up with them also, and flocks and herds—a great deal of livestock. 39 And they baked unleavened cakes of the dough which they had brought out of Egypt; for it was not leavened, because they were driven out of Egypt and could not wait, nor had they prepared provisions for themselves.

40 Now the sojourn of the children of Israel who lived in Egypt[a] was four hundred and thirty years. 41 And it came to pass at the end of the four hundred and thirty years—on that very same day—it came to pass that all the armies of the Lord went out from the land of Egypt. 42 It is a night of solemn observance to the Lord for bringing them out of the land of Egypt. This is that night of the Lord, a solemn observance for all the children of Israel throughout their generations.

Passover Regulations

43 And the Lord said to Moses and Aaron, “This is the ordinance of the Passover: No foreigner shall eat it. 44 But every man’s servant who is bought for money, when you have circumcised him, then he may eat it. 45 A sojourner and a hired servant shall not eat it. 46 In one house it shall be eaten; you shall not carry any of the flesh outside the house, nor shall you break one of its bones. 47 All the congregation of Israel shall keep it. 48 And when a stranger dwells with you and wants to keep the Passover to the Lord, let all his males be circumcised, and then let him come near and keep it; and he shall be as a native of the land. For no uncircumcised person shall eat it. 49 One law shall be for the native-born and for the stranger who dwells among you.”

50 Thus all the children of Israel did; as the Lord commanded Moses and Aaron, so they did. 51 And it came to pass, on that very same day, that the Lord brought the children of Israel out of the land of Egypt according to their armies(Ex 12).

Taken from The Seven festivals Of The Messiah:In conclusion, in the first Passover, Yesua is the Temple Cleanser (the spiritual temple is the physical body of the believe). In the second Passover, Yesua is the Healer of body and soul. In the third Passover, Yesua is the Bread of Life. In the fourth Passover, Yeshua is the lamb of G-d slain for the sin for the sins of the whole world.

Events During the Last Day Before the Passover Nisan 14th-”The Preparation Day” (John 19:31) The Day of Jesus’ Death

(Corresponds to our Tuesday sunset to Wednesday sunset)*

Judas’ plot to betray Christ:
Matthew 26:14-16, Mark 14:10, 11, Luke 22:1-6

“Preparation” for Last Supper:
Matthew 26:17-19, Mark 14:12-16, Luke 22:7-13

“The even was come”; plot for betrayal:
Matthew 26:20, Mark 14:17

The last supper; foot washing:
John 13:1-20

Announcement of betrayal:
Matthew 26:21-25, Mark 14:18-21, John 13:21-30

Supper eaten; “New Covenant” proposed: bread and wine instituted:
Matthew 26:26-29, Mark 14:22-25, Luke 22:14-23

First prophecy of Peter’s denials:
John 13:31-38

Strife over greatest:
Luke 22:24-30

Second prophecy of Peter’s denials:
Luke 22:31-34

They go to Gethsemane:
Matthew 26:30-35, Mark 14:26-29, Luke 22:39, John 18:1

Third prophecy of Peter’s denials:
Mark 14:30-31

Agony in garden:
Matthew 26:36-46, Mark 14:32-42, Luke 22:40-46

Christ arrested:
Matthew 26:47-56, Mark 14:43-50, Luke 22:47-54, John 18:2-11

Lazarus escapes:
Mark 14:51, 52

Trials – all through Tuesday night:
Matthew 26:57; 27:31, Mark 14:53; 15:19, Luke 22:54; 23:25, John 18:12; 19:13

“Sixth hour” (our Tuesday midnight) Pilate’s speech: “Behold your king.”
John 19:14, 15

Christ led away to be killed:
Matthew 27:31-34, Mark 15:20-23, Luke 23:26-31, John 19:16, 17

Discussion with Pilate about inscriptions:
John 19:19-22

Dividing of garments:
Matthew 27:35-37, Mark 15:24, Luke 23:34, John 19:23-34

“It was the third hour and they crucified Him” (Our 9:00 a.m. Wednesday)
Mark 15:25, 26

“The sixth hour” (our Wednesday noon) and darkness:
Matthew 27:45-49, Mark 15:33, Luke 23:44, 45

“The ninth hour” (our Wednesday 3:00 p.m.) Christ cries out, dies on stake.
Matthew 27:50, Mark 15:34-37, Luke 23:46, John 19:28-30

Many subsequent events:
Matthew 27:51-56, Mark 15:38-41, Luke 23:47-49, John 19:31-37

Christ buried IN HASTE, BEFORE SUNSET (our Wednesday about 6:00 p.m.) BEFORE THE “HIGH DAY” (The first day of unleavened bread, an annual Sabbath); our Wednesday sunset:
Matthew 27:57-66, Mark 15:42-47, Luke 23:50-56, John 19:31-42

* After Bullinger’s Companion Bible, Ap.156, 157, 158.

To not inundate you with to much information. It is however your/our responsibility as a believers to know and share God’s truth. I leave you with The Passover from my booklet that is coming soon entitled “The Salvation Handbook. Enjoy and have a happy Passover.

Passover
We believe in observing the Passover memorial supper from the New Testament era which is the annual observance of the Savior’s death. During this time, we partake of the unleavened bread (Matzoth) which represents the broken body of the savior and the cup which represents His blood (Lk 22:17-20; 1Cor10:16). We believe it is scriptural to use wine as opposed to grape juice, but do make exceptions if there are those among us who may have had alcohol problems in the past. However, we do not believe that children should partake of the Memorial Passover until the age of accountability. The observance of the Passsover Memorial is to begin after sunset on the evening of the 14th day of the scriptural month of Abib (March/April)(Lev 23:5; Num 28:16). The scriptural months are determined by the visible new moons (Deut 16;1). The first day of each month is determined by the appearance of the crescent. during the Passover, we practice feet washing to show forth humbleness and service of one to another (Jn 13;12-17).

Written by John The Revelator

Saturday, November 10, 2012

Texas Megachurch Pastor Says Obama Will 'Pave Way' for Antichrist

I've said this and I will continue to say it. Christians are creating more atheist than they are creating converts. First, Robert Jeffress needs to read the plain teachings of the Bible and stop interjecting his ignorance into the conversation. Read and reread my article about the Antichrist http://mannadailylife.blogspot.com/search?q=antichrist. He is a double minded man who is conflicted about his own personal salvation. This is the same person who took back his Mormonism is a cult and heresy comment for political expediency; how can he be trusted at all! This is slowly becoming the divide between nominal Christians and Bible believers. This article proves, he's bypassed ignorance into the realm of dumb. 


A Texas megachurch pastor recently claimed that President Barack Obama's re-election victory would lead to the rise of the Antichrist.
Robert Jeffress, senior pastor at the First Baptist Church in Dallas, made remarks on Sunday before the election that should Obama win, his victory would lead to the reign of the Antichrist.
"I want you to hear me tonight, I am not saying that President Obama is the Antichrist, I am not saying that at all. One reason I know he's not the Antichrist is the Antichrist is going to have much higher poll numbers when he comes," said Jeffress.
"President Obama is not the Antichrist. But what I am saying is this: the course he is choosing to lead our nation is paving the way for the future reign of the Antichrist."
Jeffress would go on to say that "it is time for Christians to stand up and to push back against this evil that is overtaking our nation" and to do so via "the ballot box."
This is not the first time that Jeffress has garnered controversy for his remarks regarding major political figures. During the Family Research Council's "Values Voters Summit" in October of last year, Jeffress called Mormonism a cult.
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"Mitt Romney is a Mormon, and don't let anybody tell you otherwise. Even though he talks about Jesus as his Lord and savior, he is not a Christian. Mormonism is not Christianity. Mormonism is a cult," said Jeffress, who was supporting Texas Gov. Rick Perry's bid to become the GOP presidential nominee.
"It's a little hypocritical for the last eight years to be talking about how important it is for us to elect a Christian president and then turn around and endorse a non-Christian."
Jeffress' remarks received much criticism, both for his refusal to vote for someone over their religious beliefs and because in the opinions of some there had been a different understanding as to what the word "cult" meant in the context Jeffress was using.
In a column for The Christian Post, Dr. Richard Land noted the disparity between how Jeffress used the word "cult" and how the public perceived it.
"The problem is that while Mormonism may technically be a cult theologically, in that it has moved well beyond the parameters of orthodox, apostle's creed Trinitarian Christianity, it does not behave as a cult culturally or socially," wrote Land.
"Most people would tell you that Mormons are solid citizens and among the nicest and most moral people they know."
Despite the statements made at the VVS in October, as Romney gained the nomination Jeffress proceeded to voice his support for the Mormon candidate.
"I haven't changed my tune … In fact, I never said Christians should not vote for Mitt Romney. When I talked about his theology," said Jeffress in an interview with Fox News.
"I still maintain there are vast differences in theology between Mormons and Christians, but we do share many of the same values, like the sanctity of life and religious freedom."


Saturday, September 29, 2012

Jack Schaap Pleads Guilty in Teen Sex Case, Denies Knowing Act Was Crime



This is truly disturbing, if the clergy can't be trusted; who can!
Jack Schaap, the former pastor of First Baptist Church in Hammond, Ind., pleaded guilty in federal court on Wednesday in a case stemming from his sexual involvement with a teen girl, but has denied knowing that taking her across state lines for sex was illegal.
"I was not aware of the law," Schaap said before the court in Hammond, but said that he knew that his actions were "sinful and wrong."
The former pastor of the 15,000-member church, which he served for 11 years, stood accused of having sexual relations with the girl, a parish member who is now 17, and taking her across state lines to Illinois and western Michigan for the sexual encounters. Schaap and the girl started the affair when she was 16.
U.S. District Judge Rudy Lozano scheduled the sentencing for Jan. 15, although Schaap, 54, has already signed a plea agreement stating that he faces at least 10 years in prison for taking a person under 18 across state lines for sex, although the maximum sentence for such a crime could be life imprisonment.
The former pastor, described by the Southtown Star as wearing an orange prison garb while standing before the court, admitted to taking three trips with the teen across state lines for sexual activity, and said someone else actually drove the girl to the destinations.
The married father of two was removed from his position at First Baptist Church last month after a deacon apparently found a text message on his cell phone that showed the pastor and the girl kissing. Schaap had even been counseling the girl, it was revealed.

The investigation against Schaap by the FBI and the Lake County Sheriff's office also noted that the girl, who has not been named, had been taking classes at Hyles-Anderson College, where the former pastor once served as vice president.
The Indiana church is still looking for a new senior pastor to replace Schaap full time, but a spokesman for the church previously told CP that the congregation was handling the situation well and agreed with senior staff who dismissed the former pastor as soon as the allegations came to light.
"The church is actually more unified today than it ever has been," said Eddie Wilson, spokesperson and public relations director. "There's a sense of commitment on the member part to see that the church goes forward. We are 125 years old, a big congregation, and they are all very committed to making sure that the church succeeds. You get a real sense of unity, commitment, hope – it's not all doom and gloom. The past two Sunday services have been exciting, they have been powerful."

By Stoyan Zaimov , Christian Post Reporter

Posted by Breaking Bread





Tuesday, September 25, 2012

Day of Atonement



We believe in observing the Day of Atonement (Yom Kippur) which is to be observed as a sabbath and fast day in memory of Yahshua's(Jesus) atonement (remission) of sins on our behalf on the tree of crucifixion (Lev 23:27-32; Ac 27:9) This Sabbath falls on the 10th day of the seventh month of Tishri.

Posted by Breaking Bread

Oklahoma: Megachurch Rocked by Reports of Sexual Assaults


A 17,000-member megachurch has been rattled by allegations that five employees waited two weeks to report the rape of a 13-year-old girl in a campus stairwell.

The Tulsa police say the girl is among at least three victims of sex crimes committed by two former employees of the church, Victory Christian Center.

The police said this week that the worldwide ministry’s pastor and co-founder, Sharon Daugherty, whose daily broadcasts are heard in more than 200 countries, knew about the accusations, but trusted employees to follow policies on reporting such assaults.

A former church employee, Chris Denman, 20, was arrested Sept. 5 on charges of raping the 13-year-old before a church service on Aug. 13. He also is charged with molesting a 15-year-old girl between Aug. 13 and Aug. 17.

Another ex-employee, Israel Shalom Castillo, 23, was arrested Thursday and charged with making a lewd proposal to a child and using a computer to commit a sexual crime.

Prosecutors this week also charged five church employees, including Ms. Daugherty’s son and daughter-in-law, who are both youth pastors, with failing to report accusations of the assault between Aug. 15 and Aug. 30.

The church said staff members in the ministry’s youth department learned of the accusations and spent about a week looking into them before reporting them to supervisors and human resources. Once the complaint reached human resources, “that department did not follow its own reporting policy,” the ministry said.

By THE ASSOCIATED PRESS

Posted by Breaking Bread

Sunday, August 19, 2012

Poll: Over Half of Tea Party Members Support Bringing Guns to Church

Can the Church involve itself in any more buffoonery


A recently released poll has found that Americans who describe themselves as members of the tea party movement are the most likely to support carrying guns to church.
According to the Public Religion Research Institute poll, released Wednesday, 55 percent of respondents who identified themselves as tea party members supported allowing people to carry guns to church. This contrasted with 38 percent of Republicans, 17 percent of independents, and 9 percent of Democrats.
"Although the issue of gun control tends to divide Americans by party, gender, region and race, there is broad agreement among the public that there are some places where concealed weapons should be off limits," said PRRI Research Director Daniel Cox in a statement.
The poll was conducted between Aug. 8 and 12, with a sample space of 1,006 adults. It has a margin of error of plus or minus 3.5 percent.
According to the PRRI poll, overall roughly three-quarters of Americans oppose concealed carry of guns into various facilities, with 76 percent opposing them in worship facilities, 73 percent opposing them in government facilities, and 77 percent opposing them on college campuses.
Other findings from the poll included 52 percent of Americans favoring tougher gun laws and 68 percent of Americans believing that the constitutional right to own a gun is as important as other rights.


"In spite of recent debates over gun control, a strong majority of Americans believe that the constitutional right to own and carry a gun is as important as the right to free speech," said Dr. Robert P. Jones, PRRI CEO, in a statement.
"Unsurprisingly, this belief is particularly pervasive among gun owners."
The results of the poll come in the wake of several high profile gun-based violent crimes took place across the country. On July 20, an individual entered a Colorado movie theatre during a viewing of "The Dark Knight Rises" and opened fire, killing 12 and wounding 58. On Aug. 5, a shooter opened fire at a Sikh Temple in Oak Creek, Wis., killing six and wounding four.
The poll also came a couple weeks after a court in Georgia upheld a law that banned the bringing of firearms into places of worship.
The Eleventh Circuit Court of Appeals ruled on July 20 that the 2010 law banning guns from churches did not violate either the First or Second Amendment.
"A place of worship's right, rooted in the common law, to forbid possession of firearms on its property is entirely consistent with the Second Amendment," ruled the Eleventh Circuit.


By Michael Gryboski , Christian Post Reporter
Posted by Breaking Bread


Friday, July 6, 2012

The So Called Black Church

Why is the black church so adamant about homosexuality? Secondly, does the President have to answer to you. I understand the church has gotten away from evangelizing to proselytizing, it's been in bed so long with politicians that it behaves the same no less. I thought homosexuality is a choice that a person can choose freely. The same as men who sleep with many different women and impregnating them. where is the real outrage when it comes to SIN. Homosexuality is one type of sin, what about the other 3000. The church is ever growing weaker and insufficient, it no longer produces fruit but thorns instead. Allow me to ask a question; what is sin? We have to start there, until we answer the tough questions the church will forever be in the wilderness. WAKE UP BLACK CHURCH!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Thursday, July 5, 2012

Gay Gayer Gayest

I'm tired of the entire subject of homosexuality. Politicians use it as a wedge issue to obtain more votes for a certain party, which is strange if you look at the entire picture. What did republicans do for the Ecclesia when in office, as far as promises are concerned. I remember very specifically when George Bush won, he was asked to appear at the dove awards coincidentally it was the christian community that pushed him over; didn't appear. I was really dumb struck by this. It showed where his allegiance really lied; not with faith based communities. I don't like politicians to play the religious card, first I don't know what you believe as your core doctrine. I don't know your convictions as a person of faith, and lastly I have to look at your policies and past engagements to know who you really are. My conclusion is, you can't be a politician and lie (Prov 17:7), yet they continue to do so as well as practice deceitfulness.

As I mentioned, yes homosexuality is a wedge issue. An evangelical professor is calling for the resignation or removal of Alan Chambers as president of Exodus International, citing concerns that Chambers is offering a false hope to gays and lesbians and compromising the ministry's mission. This really struck me as odd. First we understand what the bible says about this issue. Yes Christians are missing the larger issue. Did God accept you when you were dirty and filthy and vile and lovers of many; YES. Did he hold it against you; NO.  Same issue as it pertains to Gays, come as you are. You get cleansed during the journey, not a minute before. Gays can be born again/anew, but once they accept the contract and sign it they have to abide by what it says. Christians need to stop putting their personal convictions on others and simply let people live. Sure the bible teaches only a certain subset of people will enjoy everlasting peace; we don't know those people. Remember they are three Resurrections, life, judgement, death; allow God to rule as he pleases.

God understands we are flawed individuals, didn't he wink at ignorance when his men had concubines of woman practicing immorality and selfishness. This even proved problematic even to King David when you look at his actions concerning Bathsheba. My only point is, we don't know and we must not act as if we do know. When a person accepts the Messiah into their heart, we have to leave it there. It is now between the person and God. Christians need to fix and get their house in order first and stop banishing people to the lake of fire. We are called to be witnesses; be a witness and stop being hypercritical and start practicing love and kindness.

God has this thing figured out, his son was a fine example. He hung with the dredges of his day, so much so he was called a wine bibber. In all this we have to use common sense. Fine, use the old adage "love the sinner hate the sin". The bigger problem, you are hating the sinner and the sin. If you keep kicking them upside the head; why would they want what you are giving. We all have family members that are gay; I do. When I talk to them they are lost and confused. I say this based on conversations I have with them. In their heart of hearts they want to serve God according to the bible. We have to help steer them in the right direction; the ones who ask for our help; and not judge them. It is time for the Church to understand what the scriptures teaches and what the constitution says. With that in tow we can influence the world for a better good.


DISCLAIMER
In my talking about the issue of homosexuality, allow me to say, I'm not necessarily a friend to the gay community nor am I an enemy. As a volunteerist I believe in personal freedoms as well as non aggression. I understand people can disagree with gay pride parades and sometimes the over the top behavior. In the end we must allow people to be who wants to be. In order to minister to people we have to be open to them as others have to be open to us. 

Friday, June 29, 2012

Kicking over Sacred Cows:The Cross or is it?


A lot has been said about the cross or the crucifix of the Messiah. In order for us to accept truth we must accept the truth of the Scriptures. While many will have us believe he was crucified on a cross, this runs contrary to what is true. He was murdered on an upright stake.
In order to know what something is we have to know what it is not. Church history is something that isn’t being taught. We have excluded true doctrine for the doctrine of itching ears. The issue of the cross is another in a long line of offenses that helps to delude or erode orthodoxy as useless and ineffective. The word cross is stauros “an upright pale or stake” on which executions took place. The verb form is stauroō “to fasten to a stake or pale.”
It’s important to note an argument that has arisen is the Jews were complicit in having the Messiah murdered. The Messiah was more likely murdered for political reasons. He resisted Jews from giving tribute or celebration to Caesar’s Jewish New Testament, Sacred Name Bible Authorized Version (Lk 23:2).
As much as it pains people to admit this, the Bible is a Jewish book. We have to look at the fact that translators have changed so much of the Bible to make it fit certain doctrines. Take Easter for example, why is it erroneously translated as Easter in the King James Version (KJV), while other Bibles translate it properly by using the word Passover? This is another in a long line of offences that must be corrected. The word cross isn’t figurative language either.
Our English word “cross” is the translation of crux. The word never implies or means two pieces of timber placed across one another at any angle but always of one piece alone (1Pet 2:24, Acts 5:30, 10:39, 13:29, Gal 3:13). The cross itself was presented by the Third Century A.D. The Ecclesia (church) was heavily influenced by pagan culture; it is one of the reasons why God says, “Do not follow in the way of the heathen (Jer 10:2-5). This very Scripture has to do with Christmas trees as well as Christians. So much of the church succumbed to strange practices and customs.
Scripture is specific and uses plain language. The word cross is erroneously translated when it should be upright stake. In the New Testament the word stauros (upright stake) is used 28 times. Many believe it isn’t necessary for this type of teaching. We are to contend for the faith (Jude 1:3); we are to preach the whole gospel, not in part. If we are confused about this one simple issue imagine all the other parts. The gospel has been perverted by pagan influence to this day. Why does the Apostle Paul sound so American, or Peter, or John?  Paul would be Shaul, Peter would be Kepha, and John would be Yochanon. The church also has been compromised by the very people that are supposed to uphold it and teach.
The execution stake is a place, the place, we are to die. It is metaphorically used in denunciation from the world and from self. It is to take on the life of the Messiah and to live for him (1Cor 1:17-18, Gal 5:11, Phil 3:17-20). We are to take our burden and follow the Messiah, we are to follow in fellowship with him (Matt 10:38).
Lastly, it is the traditions of men that make the word of no affect (Mk7:13). The reason to wear the cross is best explained in (Matt 10:38), and anyone who does not take up his execution-stake and follow me is not worthy of me.

Saturday, June 9, 2012

Losing it's Way

The church is as the title say's, losing it's way. I thought the church is suppose to be in the Ministry of helps not put downs. Pastors are running around espousing all kinds of facts that aren't true, they try an act sincere while hiding behind the Bible. Terry Jones actually hangs an Obama effigy because of his controversial stance on marriage equality. David Barton says people are on welfare because they don't read the Bible. Creflo Dollar gets arrested for beating his daughter. How do these incidences lead people to the Messiah; they don't. They make people scratch there heads and wonder. Terry Jones must be an ignorant man or is starved for attention to bring people into his fellowship. How offensive is it to hang something like that of the President, but was to much of a coward to burn the Koran. He claims it's because of the gay thing. Get over it sir, believe in your constitution that talks about equal protection under the law. If you treat people like dogs, how can you minister to them? With these types of antics I wonder if these people really study the scripture. What can I say about David Barton, except another bone head statement. It's easy to pick on the poor, what about the rich. Have you ever heard of corporate welfare. So in other words rich people did it all themselves without government interference. If you believe that you are delusional. What are you doing to combat the issue? Are you simply preaching at them? Have you walked a mile in their shoes? Barton is another fellow I wonder about, if he actually studies the scriptures for understanding. He say's a lot ignorant things. Lest we forget, Creflo Dollar; what a fitting last name. A prosperity preacher, who preaches the good news of riches. He is going to have some explaining to do on Sunday. I have children, we disagree often, but to put hands and physically cause them harm is way overboard, especially a young girl. Parenting is a difficult job in it self. I wont go to hard at him, we as parents have to choose our battles. However his doctrine is something I do question. The church is in the wilderness trying to find a way out, until then we are going to continually be lost. It's time to start from the bottom up, it is time for a cleansing.The church is to divided, to racist, to be effective as a collective. The church needs to get back to God, not politics, but what God's word says. 1Jn 3:4 is a good start, if we follow that and the church works as a whole doing different things while working for the same result, it will be a force to reckon with. I'm not a fatalist, I just don't see the kind of unity any time soon.

Monday, June 4, 2012

The Revealing


The church is in an influx of confusion and is in need of a cleansing. Some groups have gone as far to insist the office of the Apostle is coming back. These groups have already started acting as if they are Apostles. Don’t be fooled, and have no part of it. These men haven’t met the requirements of the office. They weren't chosen, they didn't witness his resurrection. Paul the last of the Apostles was in the presence of the Messiah. He was commissioned and personally taught by him. These movements are nothing but farces. As far as the cleansing is concerned, it is getting back to truths. The transitional period the church is going is the revealing of past and current ignorance. How disturbing is it to have a young boy singing homos are going to hell. This kind of activity is silly as well as reckless. The only reason we know of the incident is that someone you tubed it. Another incident that went viral was when a NC preacher said they should build a high electric fence and put all the gays in it. This behavior in the pulpit is irresponsible and it hurts the church more than you think. For all the gay and lesbians out there, the church is missing opportunities to witness. The second error is, think of the many other people that are listening to this hate being spewed. You are turning people off not on. It’s okay to preach the sincere word; it’s not okay to add to the sincere word.
Andrew Sullivan who’s article that was featured in Newsweek questioning the church was correct in many ways. He’s a bit delusional. Protestantism claims to be the truth, it doesn't view the Catholic Church as credible. Andrew seems to link both as one, it is at best misleading. Why don’t they deal with their overreaching issues that have plastered headlines and continue to be in the headlines? Andrew is also openly gay, which I don’t mind. The problem I have is he wants to spread the ills of the church but doesn't want to deal with his personal sins.
It is true the church is starting to go through a revealing; simply for it to deal with homosexuality and gay marriage. The church is being outed, as it should be outed. In order for the body to be cleansed, it has to be vulnerable in order to get back on the right track. The second issue is doctrine. The church has to get back to truths and stop putting personal convictions on people. God is going to do a great work, but the people’s hearts and minds must be receptacle to God’s truths and workings. A divided church cannot be effective!

Tuesday, May 22, 2012

The Tithing Question

I have a question about tithing. Not really, but play along and humor me. If the OT is done away with as some will have you think. Why are churches asking for money every Sunday. Why isn't tithing mentioned in the NT except for one little obscure verse in the book of Hebrews. I love Malachi 3:10, the problem is people haven't read the entire chapter. Who was the author speaking too? Lastly, why didn't the Messiah accept the tithe and in conclusion, who acts as the Levites in our current age of dispensation?

Monday, May 21, 2012

The Ecclesia is Scared


I had a way, I figured a way out, a way to get rid of all the lesbians and queers, but couldn’t get it past the Congress. Build a great, big, large fence — 150 or 100 miles long — put all the lesbians in there. Fly over and drop some food. Do the same thing for the queers and the homosexuals and have that fence electrified so they can’t get out. Feed ‘em. And, you know what, in a few years, they’ll die. You know why? They can’t reproduce. Charles L. Worley
These are the words spoken by a NC preacher on his views about homosexuality. He is proving first hand that he's ignorant. Secondly he's showing a total disregard to what his mission is or better yet his commission. With those remarks, it's makes me wonder, where did he get his license from. This is important, not something we should be playing with. People need answers and solutions. Especially the very folk you are denigrating by acting silly and being obnoxious. We are called to love and we chastise in kindness. How can anyone take you as a Pastor seriously when you have an open platform and this is how you use it. If you're worried about your crown it's probably going to be without jewels. The saying is about the church being the most segregated day on Sunday and Christians are single handily destroying America is true. Religion is suppose to be pure and undefiled but how can you tell, when it's in bed with politics and every other ilk. We must be the change we envision. It's time for the Ecclesia to stand up and be counted, it's time it speaks out against ignorance. Time the church show some type of cohesion or can it. The church is so divided with so many sect, off shoots etc. Charles L. Worley, please wake up and start preaching the good news and stop sending people to a hole in the ground. Don't forget, you are responsible for you actions. Make God and his angels rejoice, not get sick.

Wednesday, April 25, 2012

Senate Bill 514


North Carolina's Senate Bill 514, The Defense of Marriage Act, has caused quite a bit of a stir as of late. Both sides are arguing and marching to the detriment of what, this bill ,for lack of a better word, is confusing. The main argument is to strengthen the law so activist judges won’t overturn it and to make it so arduous that when/if liberals come into office, it can’t be tampered with. I do believe I hit the proverbial nail on the head.
I’ve looked at both sides of the aisle and I’m still confused. The word redundancy describing the bill has come up, as well as it should. When you look at both sides what is the most compelling argument? I have four.
  1. Religious groups are on the wrong side of the argument. If the bill passes, lawsuits will take it into the federal courts and eventually to the Supreme Court. It takes power from the voter/electorate.
  2.  It takes power from companies that cover same-sex couples.
  3. What will be the effects on same-sex couple who have adopted children?
  4. The bill has too many add-ons that aren’t glaringly clear.
For example, what is the meaning of private party in Section 6? It's unclear language with too many question marks pertaining to it.
Ministers aren’t helping this issue at all especially the outspoken Raleigh Minister Patrick L. Wooden, the same person that involved himself with the Merry Xmas controversy. I’m still trying to wrap my head around what Christmas has to do with the Bible. He’s on the wrong side of two arguments and doesn’t know it yet. True, we are not the left coast but notice the vote is being taken out of the hands of the people. I don’t want the Supreme Court to have more over-reaching power to make a decision for me. With these people's continued action that is what's going to take place.
Government should be challenged. Abraham Lincoln said it best in his famous speech “a government of the people, by the people, for the people.” Government should be continually challenged by the people who politicians do essentially work for: the folk that elect them.
Allow me to say this. I’m not for gay marriage within the Ekklesia(Church), I do however look at history as well as miscegenation laws still being upheld in Tennessee. Intermarrying within the colonies was banned. Why don’t Minister’s argue bigamy or miscegenation laws that are current within states. Marriage is a contract entered into by two consenting adults.
All of this is nothing but a wedge issue for votes and to keep religion in line with the conservatives. Politics and religion should be kept separate but that’s for another day. For a better understanding read my book, God, the Bible and Politics.
We have to remember we are not a theocracy and also we have a document called the Bill of Rights that certain people want to reinterpret to fit their myopic personal view points.
This is but another non-issue, NC doesn’t recognize common law marriage and also already on the books: marriage is between a man and a woman. Is this potential amendment a way to punish people who may differ with you? So come May 8th vote, NO, in order to save what is already on the books, so the Supreme Court doesn’t have to get involved and to save the preacher from their own demise.

Thursday, April 19, 2012

Just Who Is The Antichrist


In order to know what something is you have to know what something isn’t. Sorry, if you believe President Obama is the Antichrist, you are wrong as well as ignorant. You have no understanding of the simple proofs of what Scripture teaches. I have to take a breath and realize the fight isn’t against flesh and blood. People have dedicated their lives and have created websites claiming him to be the Antichrist, however, with no proof at all. The term Antichrist is usually applied to individuals, organizations, churches, government by ones who fear or hate the groups mentioned.
Scripture teaches that people are destroyed for a lack of knowledge. The brain of some folks have atrophied. Instead of speaking negatively about groups or organizations we should be speaking truth in love and praying for them. People who write this junk evidently have an ax to grind or are lost. I’m not an apologist for the President or anyone else for that matter and I know ignorance will always abound and never be a short supply.
What I’m most troubled by is how the beast or man of perdition has already in a way won. People are applying him in the wrong tense. They are looking at him to bring swift destruction yet Scripture teaches the very opposite. He will be accepted as a Christ like figure whom the world over loves. He will perform feats similar to the real returning King (King James Version Rev 13:13) he will have divine like attributes that merely mimics true power; so wonderful that the very elect will be fooled (Math 24:24).
(1John 2:18-22) shows many Antichrists; former members of the true church that went astray. As mentioned earlier, the term was never applied to an individual, church, government, or organization (JN 4:1-4). Antichrist has a duel meaning: one the many persons against the teaching of the Messiah or one who stands in for or rules in place of the real Messiah. The spirit of Antichrist is already in the world, ones who teach Christ isn’t and denies the power.The Antichrist or beast isn’t coming to set up a counterfeit system that rivals Christ’s coming ministry, the Beast system will promote peace not war.
Another issue that has to be dealt with is the Hollywoodization of the Mark of the Beast. It’s not going to be some outward mark of the number 666. Oh how Hollywood has scared people especially ignorant church goers to fear the number six. It’s really associated with man or mankind while 666 shows triple significance to man and to man’s accomplishments.
The beast system and the famous Mark of the Beast is a counterfeit to the millennial kingdom (Rev 13:16-17). The mark on the hand or head is associated with holy days on the mosaic calendar (Ex 13:9) also it’s referring to the weekly Sabbath (Duet 6:8), the beast is to form and start a State Church.
This is but a brief synopsis of the famous 666 that strikes fear in the hearts of many and the misunderstanding about what or who the Antichrist is. The word was used to show how people went away from the truth. John was saying they had the spirit of the Antichrist. See how bad teaching mixed with Hollyweird have themselves created a type of doctrine.
The NON-Conformist

Tuesday, April 17, 2012

The Big Three

I'm not an apologist for Carlton Pearson, but I do have a problem when he came out with his gospel of inclusion message that shocked the gospel community. More than the message but the people that came out against him; T.D. Jakes, Ted Haggard, and Oral Roberts, more troubling than the milk preachers who came out against Carlton, but didn't come out against the experimental Preacher, some say heresy Preacher Kenneth Hagin Jr. He made a disturbing comment about interracial marriage and dating. This should have been the issue of our time, yet the Church went numb and weak. Another reason I left that idiotic movement. People get alarmed for the wrong things. Racism sits atop the Church world, yet deal with an essential issue, the Church shy's away. The Church even shy's away from abused children within the Catholic Church, we have found out as of late it is in the business of castration.

Now we are dealing with Carlton Pearson and the gospel of inclusion. A doctrine which has some merit but the teachers of it don't seem to understand it. My point today isn't to deal with the doctrine but to point out the people used to argue or disagree with the doctrine I'm not her to tear down the Minister but the lack they use as far as teaching. T.D. Jakes who's ministry was needed in West Virginia, but he went for the money in the Mecca, Texas. Jakes hasn't preached a meat message since his TBN fame and he shy's form teaching doctrine. Preaching is only a part of the 4 fold ministry. The office of the Apostle doesn't apply.  Ted Haggad a bisexual who was caught in the act, behaving badly with another man. Next up Oral Roberts, a man who has distorted the gospel for some time. Especially the whole seed faith message and preaching about prosperity. Need a blessing, plant a seed.


 These men, I question there doctrine. Is this the best you have to argue the doctrine of Carlton Pearson; milk preachers. Don't simply disagree with the message, show where it's in error or is it that these Ministers don't know. What happened to the business of Preachers.

Saturday, April 7, 2012

The Easter Hoax

If there ever was a hoax, it would be the pagan holiday called Ishtar/Easter. Christianity proposes to be the religion of the West, yet it does a bad job of getting rid of superstitions; or maybe it doesn't know it's history. Simply take a look at the bible. The scriptures teaches us to not follow the way of the heathen, yet it does the opposite. Every Easter the churches have large followings followed by many offering plates passed around. Why not read the bible and teach the bible. Why does the KJV translate Easter for Passover (Act 12-4), while every other translation has it as Passover. Stop mixing superstition and selling it as authenticity. Bunnies have nothing to do with the Messiah. It's dealing with fertility. Let's get back to the truth. This should be a day that clears up the superstitions such as heaven, allow the scriptures to answer the gospel of inclusion allusion, especially dealing with the resurrection to 1. Life 2. Judgement 3. Damnation. Study the statement of faith and be challenged.

NOT PASSOVER


Passover
We believe in observing the Passover memorial supper from the New Testament era which is the annual observance of the Savior's death. During this time, we partake of the unleavened bread (Matzoth) which represents the broken body of the savior and the cup which represents His blood (Lk 22:17-20; 1Cor10:16). We believe it is scriptural to use wine as opposed to grape juice, but do make exceptions if there are those among us who may have had alcohol problems in the past. However, we do not believe that children should partake of the Memorial Passover until the age accountability. The observance of the Passsover Memorial is to begin after sunset on the evening of the 14th day of the scriptural month of Abib (March/April)(Lev 23:5; Num 28:16). The scriptural months are determined by the visible new moons (Deut 16;1). The first day of each month is determined by the appearance of the crescent. during the Passover, we practice feet washing to show forth humbleness and service of one to another (Jn 13;12-17). For more information, please see our study on the Passover Memorial.

Friday, March 30, 2012

Personal Thought

People always want more of God, but how can they have more when they can't understand what they have. God can't bless ignorance. He has to have something within you he can use so you can grow.

Santorum takes on PORN


What can we say about pornography that hasn’t already been said? Just the mention of the word is difficult enough.  So why am I talking about porn? Oh, because Rick Santorum made it his business to talk about it. While we can invoke the Bible in this argument by using  passages such as: we shouldn’t look upon a woman’s nakedness unless she’s your wife or we could use (2Pet 2:10) which closes the argument for the existence of porn legally. Allow me to ask this question, what’s wrong with free people in a free society supported by the Constitution watching  porn? I believe porn is something you outgrow and with the age of the Internet it has become easier and more accessible. Before you answer the previous question, how you police your household is valid just the same as others who believe differently than you; it’s also valid. If porn is a legal entity following the laws of the land, how is it wrong simply for your displeasure?
This is where the rubber hits the road, no pun intended. Conservatives cry for smaller less intrusive government as long as it fits their model. Taking away people’s freedoms and right isn’t freedom. Maybe Rick is listening to a higher power that isn’t God. Maybe Rick wants us to be a theocracy (rule by God, either directly or via earthly representation in the form of priests) so papal power can inflict its dictates upon us. This is a conspiratorial thought of my own admission but it stands to reason though since he’s coming out against every right or freedom of a free society. A question again must be asked, how many people is he winning for the Messiah?
Porn is a huge business; a billion dollar a year industry. It isn’t some seedy little business, it has well insulated itself within well-known corporations. Porn is a Wall Street business and it benefits from hotel chains such as, Marriott, Hilton and Westin as well as from cable & satellite companies such AT&T and Comcast. Lastly General Motors who owned Direct-TV but sold its stake to News Corporation which is owned by Rupert Murdoch continues to sell pornography channels. We can’t forget about the Internet, especially Yahoo.
Do not misunderstand the intentions of this post, there’s not much positive about porn; if it has any merits. There is the ugly side of porn: addiction. In 2004 a panel of experts testified before a Senate subcommittee that porn is dangerously additive. Read the story yourself and draw your own conclusion. Porn is one addiction Rick Santorum is going after, why not gambling or alcoholism? The Bible addresses the issue, read (Rom 1:21, 24, 29); the desire can be loosed with God’s help. The business of porn can’t be gotten rid of because of one man’s dislike of it. It should, however, be continually policed to keep underage girls and boys from getting involved. Mr. Santorum wants to crack down on certain porn, if elected, he promises to “vigorously” enforce laws that “prohibit distribution of hardcore (obscene) pornography on the Internet, on cable/satellite TV, on hotel/motel TV, in retail shops and through the mail or by common carrier.” Again isn’t this you asserting your personal convictions on others, especially people over the appropriate age to watch it? Politically this is very dangerous and unsettling but at least he’s gaining traction.
Children are usually dragged into the porn argument, we are concerned with sex trafficking and children having accessibility to it. What happened to the right of a parent to parent? Does Rick care about your Constitutional rights?
The government Rick rails so boldly against, he now wants to use to enforce laws upon free people. It’s the parent’s responsibility to know what his or her child is looking at under their roof. It’s up to parents to police everything in the household from phones to tablets to all forms of CPUs or any other streaming device. Do not use the children as the excuses to carry on a war against something you find detestable. Under the First Amendment children will always be safe and criminals prosecuted. We don’t need another war on anything. We are still dealing with the War on Drugs, look how that has turned out. If you take things away i.e., prohibition, people will always find a way to acquire way things. If you disagree with it, by all means don’t watch it. Churches should be talking to their members about the issue. Police the home first.
Speaking of issue of policing, Rick Santorum needs to speak about the Catholic Church and their treatment of young boys and the news story that are coming out about castrations. As with anything porn can be destructive but if people want it, it’s, by all means, a personal choice. For the ones who talk about it often, I’m wondering about you specifically. Everyone has a role to play in cleaning up their backyard. Continue to put derelicts behind bars that harm the little ones and innocent adults. No sin goes unpunished, deluding ourselves in believing so is only an illusion.
The NON-Conformist

Wednesday, March 7, 2012


Ellen Degeneres or as some call her Ellen Degenerate is the face of an updated JC Penny. Penny's has continued to be a mainstay in the face of better retailers, such as Macy's, Belk, as well as others. It is the middle of America store that is looking for something bigger. A recent change in their logo, a new spokesperson(Ellen) and they get attacked  from the "Right."
One Million Moms came out in opposition to the partnership with Ellen. Moms is a religious right organization that is tired of the filth that's being directed at children. The Moms have every right to protest but isn't JC Penny a private entity? I understand their plight, I have places I will not frequent, it's a personal fight with certain companies. In life we have to choose our battles and Moms has chosen theirs but it's time religious groups realize that people and organizations have the right to coexist and do business as they see fit, even if you disagree with the lifestyle of the person the business decides to partner with.
Groups also have to be careful in their repute to protest certain stores and look at the sordid histories of all companies. Don't marginalize one company because of a lesbian spokesperson, what about the companies that participated in Apartheid?