D - PEOPLE FILES
- Jim Daly - Charlie Dates - Bible Davids - Rebecca Bible Davids - Angela Davis - Chris Davis - Ellen F Davis - Randy C Davis - Sarah Davis - Brian Dees - Cora Lynn Deibler - Mondo de La Vega - Roy Delia - Craig Denison - Jim Denison - Craig DeRoche - Terry Detwiler - Jamie K Dew - Steve Dewitt - Ariel Diaz - Tim Dickau - Gary Diggs - Hance Dilbeck - Justin Dillehay - Monica Dobbins - James Dobson - David S Dockery - Adam Dooley - Jim Dorman - Paul Doyle - Wayne Drain - Jimmy Draper - Rod Dreher - Jen Dreiske - Mark Dreistadt - Ralph Drollinger - Rebekah Drumstra - Joseph D'Souza -
Jim Daly
Jim Daly (born July 22, 1961) started his career at Focus in 1989 as an assistant to the president, fostering relationships with the ministry’s supporters. He was appointed international field director for Asia, Africa and Australia in 1992, and in 1997 was promoted to vice president of the International Division. In 2004, Daly was appointed chief operating officer, the role he held until he was handpicked by Focus on the Family founder Dr. James Dobson to be the group’s president in 2005.
Feb 28, 2023: Jim Daly: Belleville News Democrat: Importance of being playful
Jim Daly
The late novelist Pat Conroy described a broken marriage well when he said, “Every divorce is the death of a small civilization.” I think that’s absolutely right.
Divorce doesn’t just split up a husband and wife or separate kids from their parents. The breakdown of the family is one of the most overlooked contributors to the poverty rate in America.
--Jim Daly; Focus On the Family; 2.1.23
Nov 29, 2022: Daily Signal: Focus on the Family Blamed for Club Q Shooting Despite Jim Daly Condemnation, Suspect’s Nonbinary IdentityFocus on the Family President Jim Daly condemned the shooting on the day it occurred. He said the “horrific” event “exposes the evil and wickedness inside the human heart. We must condemn in the strongest terms possible the taking of innocent life.”
After the vandalism, Daly said the shooting’s aftermath should be “a time of prayer, grieving and healing, not vandalism and the spreading of hate.”
“The families of the five individuals killed in Saturday night’s senseless attack are in our prayers,” Daly added in a public statement. “We urge everyone to pray for peace and we also pray for the individual or group responsible for this mischievous and unwarranted defacing of our ministry’s property.”
Many news outlets cited Daly’s condemnation of the shooting, but the Southern Poverty Law Center notably did not. Instead, the SPLC illustrated how some on the Left smear political opponents, even when they have nothing to do with the crime at issue
After the vandalism, Daly said the shooting’s aftermath should be “a time of prayer, grieving and healing, not vandalism and the spreading of hate.”
“The families of the five individuals killed in Saturday night’s senseless attack are in our prayers,” Daly added in a public statement. “We urge everyone to pray for peace and we also pray for the individual or group responsible for this mischievous and unwarranted defacing of our ministry’s property.”
Many news outlets cited Daly’s condemnation of the shooting, but the Southern Poverty Law Center notably did not. Instead, the SPLC illustrated how some on the Left smear political opponents, even when they have nothing to do with the crime at issue
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Nov 2, 2022: Denver Post: Focus on the Family’s Colorado Springs headquarters sign vandalized days after Club Q mass shooting
“We recognize the community is hurting in the aftermath of the reckless and violent actions of a very disturbed individual,” said Jim Daly, president of Focus on the Family, in a Friday statement. “This is a time for prayer, grieving and healing, not vandalism and the spreading of hate.” “The families of the five individuals killed in Saturday night’s senseless attack are in our prayers,” Daly said. “We urge everyone to pray for peace and we also pray for the individual or group responsible for this mischievous and unwarranted defacing of our ministry’s property.” |
November 25, 2022
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john danforth
John Claggett Danforth is an American politician, attorney and diplomat who began his career in 1968 as the Attorney General of Missouri and served three terms as United States Senator from Missouri. In 2004, he served briefly as United States Ambassador to the United Nations. Danforth is an ordained Episcopal priest.
John Danforth
“I think that Clarence Thomas is going to be a judge who does not try to use the Supreme Court as a way of fostering his own political philosophy.” --John Danforth; Meet the Press; 1991.
“I think that Clarence Thomas is going to be a judge who does not try to use the Supreme Court as a way of fostering his own political philosophy.” --John Danforth; Meet the Press; 1991.
John Danforth
Republicans have transformed our party into the political arm of the conservative Christians.
--John Danforth
How do we stop ourselves from blowing each other up because we think that God wants us to blow each other up. --John Danforth
The Republican Party has become the party of one branch of one religion.
--John Danforth; NBC Meet the Press, September 24, 2006
--John Danforth
How do we stop ourselves from blowing each other up because we think that God wants us to blow each other up. --John Danforth
The Republican Party has become the party of one branch of one religion.
--John Danforth; NBC Meet the Press, September 24, 2006
John Danforth
In the Middle East, Iraq, Sudan, the former Yugoslavia and Northern Ireland, and many other places in the world, religion has been so divisive that people have killed one another, believing they were doing the work of God. --John Danforth
In the Middle East, Iraq, Sudan, the former Yugoslavia and Northern Ireland, and many other places in the world, religion has been so divisive that people have killed one another, believing they were doing the work of God. --John Danforth
John Danforth
Plenty of kind, decent, caring people have no religious beliefs, and they act out of the goodness of their hearts. Conversely, plenty of people who profess to be religious, even those who worship regularly, show no particular interest in the world beyond themselves.
--John Danforth
Plenty of kind, decent, caring people have no religious beliefs, and they act out of the goodness of their hearts. Conversely, plenty of people who profess to be religious, even those who worship regularly, show no particular interest in the world beyond themselves.
--John Danforth
John Danforth
Whatever this gay marriage amendment is all about, it certainly does not belong in the U. S. Constitution…. It is a drummed up political issue that amounts to gay bashing.
--John Danforth Seminar, Religion & Politics in America, Kennedy School of Government, October 23, 2006
Whatever this gay marriage amendment is all about, it certainly does not belong in the U. S. Constitution…. It is a drummed up political issue that amounts to gay bashing.
--John Danforth Seminar, Religion & Politics in America, Kennedy School of Government, October 23, 2006
John Danforth
The problem is not that Christians are conservative or liberal, but that some are so confident that their position is God's position that they become dismissive and intolerant toward others and divisive forces in our national life.
--John Danforth
The problem is not that Christians are conservative or liberal, but that some are so confident that their position is God's position that they become dismissive and intolerant toward others and divisive forces in our national life.
--John Danforth
John Danforth
The error of the Christian right is that in its attempt to codify the requirements of faith in a legislative program, it crowds out the demands of the Love Commandment …. ‘Thou shalt love they neighbor as thyself.’
--John Danforth; The Kansas City Star, September 24, 2006
The error of the Christian right is that in its attempt to codify the requirements of faith in a legislative program, it crowds out the demands of the Love Commandment …. ‘Thou shalt love they neighbor as thyself.’
--John Danforth; The Kansas City Star, September 24, 2006
charlie dates
Jan 10, 2023: Christian Post: ‘I’m almost afraid to hand you this,’ Pastor James Meeks says in handing over megachurch to Charlie Dates
Founding pastor of the 10,000-member Salem Baptist Church of Chicago, James Meeks, said he was “almost afraid” to hand over the reins of the congregation he led for the last 38 years to Pastor Charlie Dates. In an emotional retirement ceremony Sunday, he revealed he is trusting God to give his spiritual son the strength he needs to carry on the ministry.
Founding pastor of the 10,000-member Salem Baptist Church of Chicago, James Meeks, said he was “almost afraid” to hand over the reins of the congregation he led for the last 38 years to Pastor Charlie Dates. In an emotional retirement ceremony Sunday, he revealed he is trusting God to give his spiritual son the strength he needs to carry on the ministry.
bible davids
Bible Davids is a Author, Anointed Bible expositor and Healing Minister. Jesus Christ appeared to the Apostle Bible Davids at the age of 10 (according to Davids) and anointed him as an Apostle to the nations of the earth. In that encounter, the Lord said to him, “Son, I raise you up as a pillar in my kingdom for the end-time to preach the word in power for the deliverance of mankind”. In over 30 years of impactful ministry, he has committed his life to preaching the Gospel of Jesus Christ and raising an army of supernatural believers who are empowered by the Holy Spirit to manifest miracles, signs and wonders and execute dominion in all the seven mountains of influence. His ministry reaches millions of people all over the world through Book & Magazine Publishing, Church Planting, Daily Television and YouTube Broadcast, Healing and Miracle Conferences, Massive Gospel Campaigns, Miracle Prayer Lines, Mentorship and Leadership Programs and Humanitarian Efforts. His ministry is notable for accurate prophetic utterances and creative miracles. Apostle Bible Davids is the president of Bible Davids Ministries and Apostolic overseer of Supernatural Life Center with campuses in the United States, Canada and Africa. He is married to Prophetess Rebecca Bible-Davids and reside in North Dallas, Texas, USA
Bible Davids
“This is not just a conference, this is a move of God. This is the wave of the Holy Spirit....The Lord told me, he said, ‘Tell the people to shout fire seven times. He said, When they shout seven times, the whole place is going to erupt like a volcanic eruption with My glory.’”
--Bible Davids; Dallas Mass Revival; Greeneville, Texas; 7.1.23
rebecca bible davids
Rebecca Bible Davids is a best-selling author, anointed Bible expositor, a Prophetess, and an intercessor, a researcher Rebecca Bible-Davids learnt the dynamics of serving the Lord right from her childhood days. Early in life, she developed an intimate relationship with the Holy Spirit birthing a praying spirit. She authored the Legends of Faith Series, a Biography Series on God's Legends such as Late Archbishop Benson Idahosa and Pastor Enoch Adeboye of RCCG. She is the Associate Snr. Pastor of Supernatural Life Center with Churches globally and Vice President of Bible Davids Ministries. She is also the founder of Fire in Her Bones Conferences as well, Global Prayer Network and Woman of Worth Humanitarian Initiative. She is happily married to Apostle Bible Davids and their marriage is blessed with anointed children.
Rebecca Bible Davids
“In case you don't know, this is not a show, this is not a regular conference. This is revival here. This is revival...You know when John the Baptist says, ‘I'm not honored to even unlatch your shoes,’ so I'm not going to go there,.”
--Rebecca Bible Davids; introducing Greg Locke at Dallas Mass Revival; Greeneville, Texas; 7.1.23
angela davis
May 20, 2022: MPR: How evangelical Christians in Minnesota are responding to calls for racial justice
MPR News host Angela Davis talks about churches and racial justice, specifically how white evangelical Christians are responding to calls for racial equity.
She’s joined by two leaders in the evangelical church and MPR News education reporter Elizabeth Shockman, who is reporting on a group of Black students pushing for equity changes at the University of Northwestern, a small evangelical school in Minnesota.
MPR News host Angela Davis talks about churches and racial justice, specifically how white evangelical Christians are responding to calls for racial equity.
She’s joined by two leaders in the evangelical church and MPR News education reporter Elizabeth Shockman, who is reporting on a group of Black students pushing for equity changes at the University of Northwestern, a small evangelical school in Minnesota.
chris davis
April 20, 2023: Christianity Today: Evangelical End Times Thinking Has a Baby-and-Bathwater Issue
Chris Davis, pastor of Groveton Baptist Church in Alexandria, Virginia, was among those who avoid the topic of the Second Coming, out of embarrassment at the wild speculations and contentious debates that eschatology sometimes inspires. But in a season when hope was running thin, he returned to the theme and discovered afresh how it focuses our hopes and desires upon Jesus. This journey of rediscovery culminated in a new book, Bright Hope for Tomorrow: How Anticipating Jesus’ Return Gives Strength for Today.
Chris Davis, pastor of Groveton Baptist Church in Alexandria, Virginia, was among those who avoid the topic of the Second Coming, out of embarrassment at the wild speculations and contentious debates that eschatology sometimes inspires. But in a season when hope was running thin, he returned to the theme and discovered afresh how it focuses our hopes and desires upon Jesus. This journey of rediscovery culminated in a new book, Bright Hope for Tomorrow: How Anticipating Jesus’ Return Gives Strength for Today.
ellen f davis
July 6, 2023: Presbyterian Outlook: On women pastors and biblical authority: A Presbyterian reflection
Given that Presbyterians value the life of the mind in service to God, we tend to ask questions when we encounter a text like 1 Timothy 2, as well we should, for as Ellen F. Davis contends, “Receiving the Scriptures as God’s good gift means opening our minds to be changed by them; it does not mean relinquishing the right to disagree with some of what we encounter there – even the necessity of disagreeing on some significant points of faith and practice – since the biblical writers disagree among themselves, even within each Testament” (“The Soil That Is Scripture” in Engaging Biblical Authority). I hope Presbyterians are also inclined to argue with the text — to engage it, address it, confident that wrestling with Scripture is an act of faithfulness, of taking the text with the utmost seriousness. Indeed, we have much to learn from our Jewish neighbors about the sacred practice of arguing with Scripture.
Given that Presbyterians value the life of the mind in service to God, we tend to ask questions when we encounter a text like 1 Timothy 2, as well we should, for as Ellen F. Davis contends, “Receiving the Scriptures as God’s good gift means opening our minds to be changed by them; it does not mean relinquishing the right to disagree with some of what we encounter there – even the necessity of disagreeing on some significant points of faith and practice – since the biblical writers disagree among themselves, even within each Testament” (“The Soil That Is Scripture” in Engaging Biblical Authority). I hope Presbyterians are also inclined to argue with the text — to engage it, address it, confident that wrestling with Scripture is an act of faithfulness, of taking the text with the utmost seriousness. Indeed, we have much to learn from our Jewish neighbors about the sacred practice of arguing with Scripture.
randy c davis
Aug 18, 2023: The Alabama Baptist: Deal with the Problems of the Self by the Cross through the Exercise of our Spirit
Randy C. Davis, president and executive director of the Tennessee Baptist Mission Board, where McLaurin was employed for 15 years before joining the EC staff in 2020 as a vice president, said, “I am profoundly saddened right now.”
“To say that I am grieved would be an understatement,” Davis said in a statement released Aug. 17. “Willie McLaurin has been a shining light of encouragement to pastors and churches, both in Tennessee and across the Southern Baptist Convention.”
‘Beyond belief’“Unfortunately, the situation in which we now find ourselves is beyond belief, and I am simply trying to process all that has happened, and the enormous damage inflicted by the fraud perpetrated on his resumé regarding his educational background,” he wrote.
Randy C. Davis, president and executive director of the Tennessee Baptist Mission Board, where McLaurin was employed for 15 years before joining the EC staff in 2020 as a vice president, said, “I am profoundly saddened right now.”
“To say that I am grieved would be an understatement,” Davis said in a statement released Aug. 17. “Willie McLaurin has been a shining light of encouragement to pastors and churches, both in Tennessee and across the Southern Baptist Convention.”
‘Beyond belief’“Unfortunately, the situation in which we now find ourselves is beyond belief, and I am simply trying to process all that has happened, and the enormous damage inflicted by the fraud perpetrated on his resumé regarding his educational background,” he wrote.
sarah davis
Oct 18, 2021: Christianity Today: Ravi Zacharias’s Daughter Steps Down to Launch New Ministry
The CEO of Ravi Zacharias International Ministries (RZIM) has stepped down to start a new apologetics organization.
Sarah Davis led RZIM through her father Ravi Zacharias’s death, the posthumous investigation of his sexual abuse, and the breakup and dramatic downsizing of the global apologetics ministry. Now, she will go out on her own and launch a new ministry called Encounter.
The CEO of Ravi Zacharias International Ministries (RZIM) has stepped down to start a new apologetics organization.
Sarah Davis led RZIM through her father Ravi Zacharias’s death, the posthumous investigation of his sexual abuse, and the breakup and dramatic downsizing of the global apologetics ministry. Now, she will go out on her own and launch a new ministry called Encounter.
brian K dees
Jan 24, 2023: Picayune Item: Church provides ‘House of Bread’ food bank for over 15 years
East Jerusalem Missionary Baptist Church’s Pastor Brian K. Dees said the food bank was been operational for about 15 years. Turner has been a part of it for seven and Barbra Walton’s been helping for two years now. The church’s food bank also delivers to its senior members who aren’t able to attend.
East Jerusalem Missionary Baptist Church’s Pastor Brian K. Dees said the food bank was been operational for about 15 years. Turner has been a part of it for seven and Barbra Walton’s been helping for two years now. The church’s food bank also delivers to its senior members who aren’t able to attend.
July 13, 2018: Picayune Item: Improvements at Friendship Park are first of many planned
Committee members include city of Picayune Grant Manager Christy Goss, Picayune Parks and Recreation Director Trevor Adam, Capt. Theresa Milar with the Picayune Police Department, Picayune Main Street Director Reba Beebe, Rev. Allen Hickman with Resurrection Life Ministries, Rev. Brian Dees, Pastor Darrell Worley of Christian Life Assembly of God and Laura Rutherford.
Committee members include city of Picayune Grant Manager Christy Goss, Picayune Parks and Recreation Director Trevor Adam, Capt. Theresa Milar with the Picayune Police Department, Picayune Main Street Director Reba Beebe, Rev. Allen Hickman with Resurrection Life Ministries, Rev. Brian Dees, Pastor Darrell Worley of Christian Life Assembly of God and Laura Rutherford.
cora lynn deibler
Cora Lynn Deibler
“I’m sad that fundamentalists have taken over Christianity and made religion a bad thing. Christian fundamentalism is misguided and hurtful and dangerous. Fundamentalists in any major world religion make trouble, and I’m disappointed they’ve stolen the good things that faith practices can bring to societies.” --Cora Lynn Deibler 12.9.22
“I’m sad that fundamentalists have taken over Christianity and made religion a bad thing. Christian fundamentalism is misguided and hurtful and dangerous. Fundamentalists in any major world religion make trouble, and I’m disappointed they’ve stolen the good things that faith practices can bring to societies.” --Cora Lynn Deibler 12.9.22
Cora Lynn Deibler
“There were white Christian nationalist candidates across the country who embody the things we are critiquing in the video. Those signs didn’t encourage my vote. They said to me of those who posted them, ‘I’m bigoted, I’m misogynistic, I’m xenophobic, I’m homophobic, and I’m OK with that.’ And a shockingly large number of people are ready to support that.”” --Cora Lynn Deibler; Professors Challenge Christian Right to Live Out Their Faith with Humility and Compassion 12.9.22
mondo de la vega
Mondo De La Vega, Executive Vice President of Television Production and Co-Host of The Jim Bakker Show. He is also known for his creative contributions as a Director and Producer of nationally syndicated television shows.
Mondo De La Vega, Executive Vice President of Television Production and Co-Host of The Jim Bakker Show. He is also known for his creative contributions as a Director and Producer of nationally syndicated television shows.
May 9, 2023: Charisma: The Jim Bakker Show’s Mondo De La Vega Reveals Reasons for Hope in Texas Mall Shooting Aftermath
Sitting down for an exclusive interview with Charisma News, host of “The Mondo Show” and co-host of “The Jim Bakker Show” Mondo De La Vega shares a deeper look into the spiritual battle taking place in America today.
Sitting down for an exclusive interview with Charisma News, host of “The Mondo Show” and co-host of “The Jim Bakker Show” Mondo De La Vega shares a deeper look into the spiritual battle taking place in America today.
Mondo de La Vega
“We’re witnessing what I believe the Bible talks about in 2 Timothy chapter 3, that we have become lovers of ourselves. Meaning that we want so much about us, and everything is about us. And a lot of these individuals, quite frankly, get inspired by other people that do this......The church, along with hospitals that deal with mental health issues, need to come together and resolve the problems that are taking place in our community with individuals that need our help." --Mondo de La Vega; The Jim Bakker Show; May 2023
r0y delia
Roy Delia left the Roman Catholic Church and started attending Bible-preaching, Independent Baptist churches that brought him to receive Christ as Saviour at the age of 32. The Lord called him into the ministry and became a pastor at the age of 38. After pastoring a church for 12 years and serving in another for several more years in Washington State, the Lord led him to eastern Oregon where he pastored a small church for five years and then started New Hope Baptist Church in Ontario in March of 2009.
Roy Delia left the Roman Catholic Church and started attending Bible-preaching, Independent Baptist churches that brought him to receive Christ as Saviour at the age of 32. The Lord called him into the ministry and became a pastor at the age of 38. After pastoring a church for 12 years and serving in another for several more years in Washington State, the Lord led him to eastern Oregon where he pastored a small church for five years and then started New Hope Baptist Church in Ontario in March of 2009.
Roy Della
The true Christian, led by the Holy Spirit, has a hunger and thirst after righteousness (Matthew 5:6), but is impeded by the old nature which hungers after the fulfillment of fleshly desires. This is why it is important for a Christian to daily spend time in prayer and Bible study, and to also unite with a Bible-believing local church. These things help us to overcome the world, the flesh, and the devil.
Again, as Paul wrote to the churches of Galatia to help them overcome: “This I say then, Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfil the lust of the flesh. For the flesh lusteth against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh: and these are contrary the one to the other: so that ye cannot do the things that ye would” (Galatians 5:16, 17). In the succeeding verses he describes the contrast between the Spirit and the flesh. I encourage you to read them. -Rev Roy Delia; New Hope Baptist Church; Ontario, Oregon
Again, as Paul wrote to the churches of Galatia to help them overcome: “This I say then, Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfil the lust of the flesh. For the flesh lusteth against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh: and these are contrary the one to the other: so that ye cannot do the things that ye would” (Galatians 5:16, 17). In the succeeding verses he describes the contrast between the Spirit and the flesh. I encourage you to read them. -Rev Roy Delia; New Hope Baptist Church; Ontario, Oregon
“True gratitude, Christian gratitude, doesn’t exist in a vacuum; it has an Object.” --Nancy Leig DeMoss
craig denison
Craig Denison
Jesus came to bring about the fullness of joy in man. Often we see Christians who are not exhibiting a lifestyle of joy, and therefore we assume God is not a happy God. We see all the darkness that surrounds us and assume that God is most often angry or sad. But in John 17:13 (ESV), Jesus prayed to the Father: “But now I am coming to you, and these things I speak in the world, that they may have my joy fulfilled in themselves.”
Jesus’s prayer in John 17:13 demonstrates two important, life-changing truths for you and me today. First, Jesus had joy. We could not have His joy fulfilled in us if He doesn’t have joy to start with. And the whole of Scripture supports the truth that within God dwells the fullness of joy. Psalm 16:11 (ESV) says, “You make known to me the path of life; in your presence there is fullness of joy; at your right hand are pleasures forevermore.” And Galatians 5:22 tells us that joy is a fruit of the Spirit. The God whom you have been filled with at salvation longs to produce the fruit of joy in your life. He longs to make you a joyful person from the inside out so that your joy wouldn’t be based on circumstances or the fleeting whims of the world.
Second, John 17 tells us that we can have the joy of Jesus for ourselves. The God of joy longs to fill you to overflowing with satisfaction and hope. He longs to make your joy abundant and transcendent of the good or bad around you. God is joyful because it’s a part of His nature. And He longs for it to be the same with you.
-Craig Denison; The Joy of The Lord; Sports Spectrum; 12.21.21
Jesus’s prayer in John 17:13 demonstrates two important, life-changing truths for you and me today. First, Jesus had joy. We could not have His joy fulfilled in us if He doesn’t have joy to start with. And the whole of Scripture supports the truth that within God dwells the fullness of joy. Psalm 16:11 (ESV) says, “You make known to me the path of life; in your presence there is fullness of joy; at your right hand are pleasures forevermore.” And Galatians 5:22 tells us that joy is a fruit of the Spirit. The God whom you have been filled with at salvation longs to produce the fruit of joy in your life. He longs to make you a joyful person from the inside out so that your joy wouldn’t be based on circumstances or the fleeting whims of the world.
Second, John 17 tells us that we can have the joy of Jesus for ourselves. The God of joy longs to fill you to overflowing with satisfaction and hope. He longs to make your joy abundant and transcendent of the good or bad around you. God is joyful because it’s a part of His nature. And He longs for it to be the same with you.
-Craig Denison; The Joy of The Lord; Sports Spectrum; 12.21.21
jim denison
Dr. Jim Denison is a cultural apologist who helps people respond biblically and redemptively to the vital issues of our day. He is also the co-founder and Chief Vision Officer of the Denison Forum, a Dallas-based nonprofit that comments on current issues through a biblical lens. Every weekday morning, his Daily Article email newsletter reaches more than 340,000 readers, and The Daily Article podcast is downloaded more than 75,000 times each month. Dr. Denison’s social media following has a reach of 2.1 million, with over 400,000 Facebook followers. He is a widely sought speaker, podcaster, and subject-matter expert on radio about cultural issues from a biblical perspective. Dr. Denison has been a frequent guest on Equipped with Chris Brooks (Moody Radio) and the nationally syndicated Point of View with Kerby Anderson (360+ radio stations). Prior to launching Denison Forum in 2009, he pastored churches in Texas and Georgia. He holds a Ph.D. and a Master of Divinity from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary
Jim Denison Files
We are inundated with so much information these days that it can be difficult—if not impossible—to sort through all of it to discern what’s true from what’s false, especially when the line between the two seems to blur. What we can’t afford to do, though, is ignore the truth when it’s made known just because we would prefer to believe the lie. Paul spoke to this tendency when he warned Timothy that “the time is coming when people will not endure sound teaching, but having itching ears they will accumulate for themselves teachers to suit their own passions, and will turn away from listening to the truth and wander off into myths” (2 Timothy 4:3–4). As Christians called to serve the God who is truth (John 14:6), it’s imperative that we don’t make that mistake. Every time we do—even when the lie may seem harmless—it harms the credibility upon which we must draw when sharing the gospel. And the truth of the gospel must always be our highest priority.
--Denison Forum; Michael Oher, of “The Blind Side” fame, sues Tuohy family over conservatorship 8.8.23
--Denison Forum; Michael Oher, of “The Blind Side” fame, sues Tuohy family over conservatorship 8.8.23
Jim Denison
God’s word is blunt: “If you show partiality, you are committing sin and are convicted by the law as transgressors” (James 2:9). “Partiality” translates prosopolempsia, meaning to show favoritism or prejudice, to treat one person as inherently better than another. Such prejudice is “sin.” God told his people: “You shall treat the stranger who sojourns with you as the native among you, and you shall love him as yourself, for you were strangers in the land of Egypt” (Leviticus 19:34). Jesus taught us: “Whatever you wish that others would do to you, do also to them, for this is the Law and the Prophets” (Matthew 7:12). We are to “love your neighbor as yourself” (Matthew 22:39, quoting Leviticus 19:18). Peter testified to the Gentiles who sought to hear the gospel: “You yourselves know how unlawful it is for a Jew to associate with or to visit anyone of another nation, but God has shown me that I should not call any person common or unclean” (Acts 10:28).
- Jim Denison; Denison Forum; 5.11.20
- Jim Denison; Denison Forum; 5.11.20
Jim Denison
America’s Christians therefore have a vital and urgent task. We are watchmen on the wall, warning those inside the city of impending danger (Ezekiel 3:17–21). We are intercessors called to represent our people before God (1 Timothy 2:1–2) and ambassadors called to represent God before our people (2 Corinthians 5:20). We are the only salt and light in a world decaying in the dark (Matthew 5:13–16). We are the body of Christ, the visible manifestation of Jesus’ continuing ministry in our day (1 Corinthians 12:27). -Jim Denison; Denison Forum; Pastor tackles armed suspect during church service: A Veterans Day reflection; 11.11.21
craig deroche
May 30, 2023: Baptist News Global: Focus on the Family affiliate is the unifying force behind campaign to restrict transgender rights
FPA also promotes “election integrity” bills that FPA CEO Craig DeRoche said are needed because “everything has been engineered to suppress your vote and for you to give up.”
FPA also promotes “election integrity” bills that FPA CEO Craig DeRoche said are needed because “everything has been engineered to suppress your vote and for you to give up.”
terry detwiler
Feb 23, 2023: News Dakota: FAITH BASED ELEMENTARY SCHOOL PLANNED FOR VALLEY CITY
A group of pastors are working on opening a new faith based elementary school in Valley City.
Pastor Terry Detwiler said three area pastors have been working on a plan to open a Christian School in Valley City.
A group of pastors are working on opening a new faith based elementary school in Valley City.
Pastor Terry Detwiler said three area pastors have been working on a plan to open a Christian School in Valley City.
. “We need to realize that we can argue about evolution or the existence of God or any number of things, but until we tell people the message of the cross, we have not evangelized them.” — Mark Dever
jamie k dew
April 18, 2023: Baptist Press: SBC leaders, former presidents react to death of Charles Stanley
“Charles Stanley was one of the first preachers I listened to as a young Christian. Like many others, I was shaped by his love for the Bible and deep devotion to Jesus Christ. I’m thankful for his constant example of service and humility.”--Jamie K. Dew, president, New Orleans Baptist Seminary
“Charles Stanley was one of the first preachers I listened to as a young Christian. Like many others, I was shaped by his love for the Bible and deep devotion to Jesus Christ. I’m thankful for his constant example of service and humility.”--Jamie K. Dew, president, New Orleans Baptist Seminary
steve dewitt
We want the love of a mother, the love a father, the love of a friend, the love of a spouse, the love of someone. We want an enduring and unconditional love. Even the worst criminal locked up in prison longs for someone to love him. Have you ever thought about why? If the origin of the universe is an accident, and if through time and chance human beings are who they are, why do all people want to be loved? Further, we might also ask why all human love is ultimately disappointing. No spouse loves us exactly like we want. Too often family love erupts into friction and conflict. Friends fail us. We desperately want someone to love us perfectly. This is why loneliness is so painful. I have spoken often to my church and others about my struggles with loneliness through years of singleness (not that those two always go together, they just seem to for me). There is a palatable ache within that can wash over you like waves of despair. I could analyze it. I could philosophize about it. I could even teach on it. But I could not overcome it. Then I began to look at the pain from the perspective of beauty and to consider why I felt the way I did. I came to discover that loneliness was not an enemy but a friend. It is a painful reminder that I was not made for myself. I was made for Him, and the pain is God’s way of saying, “Here I am!” Loneliness has become a guide and a friend in my spiritual journey. When I feel lonely, I am feeling theology inside. All the pleasures, desires, and loves in this world will not take that pain away. We desperately want someone to love us perfectly, yet no one does. But when we wake up to the fact that no relationship can fully satisfy, we realize that we are lonely for God.”
–Steve DeWitt, Eyes Wide Open: Enjoying God in Everything.
–Steve DeWitt, Eyes Wide Open: Enjoying God in Everything.
ariel diaz
May 2, 2023; Sight Magazine: Argentine election: As politicians look to woo evangelicals, experts say their votes may have little impact on results
None of those parties please Rev Ariel Diaz, a Pentecostal pastor in Mar del Plata who heads the Argentinian Federation of Evangelical Pastors (known as FAPE), an association that has some 5,000 ministers.
“Some politicians use the name of the Christian church, but at the same time they are together with the worst political groups in the country,” he says.
Diaz is a critic of Hotton who, he says, "is now associated with pro-abortion politicians". Hotton is part of the administration of Buenos Aires’s Governor Horacio Rodríguez Larreta and is supporting him in his bid for president. Larreta is a major leader of 'Propuesta Republicana' ('Republican Proposal', known as PRO), former President Mauricio Macri’s party. Macri, who has also announced he is not running in this election, endorsed the pro-abortion bill.
None of those parties please Rev Ariel Diaz, a Pentecostal pastor in Mar del Plata who heads the Argentinian Federation of Evangelical Pastors (known as FAPE), an association that has some 5,000 ministers.
“Some politicians use the name of the Christian church, but at the same time they are together with the worst political groups in the country,” he says.
Diaz is a critic of Hotton who, he says, "is now associated with pro-abortion politicians". Hotton is part of the administration of Buenos Aires’s Governor Horacio Rodríguez Larreta and is supporting him in his bid for president. Larreta is a major leader of 'Propuesta Republicana' ('Republican Proposal', known as PRO), former President Mauricio Macri’s party. Macri, who has also announced he is not running in this election, endorsed the pro-abortion bill.
tim dickau
Sept 2, 2016: Baptist Gobal News: Pastors oppose Franklin Graham crusade in Canada
Tim Kuepfer, pastor of First Baptist Church of Vancouver, and Tim Dickau, pastor of Grandview Calvary Baptist Church, joined three other local religious leaders in publicly declining a request by the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association that they endorse the Festival of Hope gathering scheduled March 3-5, 2017, at the 18,000-seat Rogers Arena.
The pastors said they “unreservedly oppose” the invitation to Franklin Graham, citing public comments by the evangelist they say are a poor witness for the gospel message.
“Given that the express goal of this event is evangelism, with the commitment of new believers to Christ, we do not believe that Rev. Graham, with his expressed broader belief system, should be the exemplar that impresses itself upon these new believers.”
Tim Kuepfer, pastor of First Baptist Church of Vancouver, and Tim Dickau, pastor of Grandview Calvary Baptist Church, joined three other local religious leaders in publicly declining a request by the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association that they endorse the Festival of Hope gathering scheduled March 3-5, 2017, at the 18,000-seat Rogers Arena.
The pastors said they “unreservedly oppose” the invitation to Franklin Graham, citing public comments by the evangelist they say are a poor witness for the gospel message.
“Given that the express goal of this event is evangelism, with the commitment of new believers to Christ, we do not believe that Rev. Graham, with his expressed broader belief system, should be the exemplar that impresses itself upon these new believers.”
gary diggs
Aug 24, 2023: Biblical Recorder: What’s working at Georgia church to bring salvations, changed lives
Wax Baptist Church was down to single digits in attendance in the summer of 2022. Not even high single digits, either.
Despite the low attendance when he agreed to become pastor last October, Pastor Gary Diggs was confident in the church’s potential.
“I told them to look around the sanctuary. Before long, they wouldn’t be able to see the purple on the chairs. It’s going to be so crowded, people are going to have to find new places to sit,” he said.
Wax Baptist Church was down to single digits in attendance in the summer of 2022. Not even high single digits, either.
Despite the low attendance when he agreed to become pastor last October, Pastor Gary Diggs was confident in the church’s potential.
“I told them to look around the sanctuary. Before long, they wouldn’t be able to see the purple on the chairs. It’s going to be so crowded, people are going to have to find new places to sit,” he said.
hance dilbeck
April 18, 2023: Baptist Press: SBC leaders, former presidents react to death of Charles Stanley
“Charles Stanley exemplified resilience throughout his ministry, serving his people well with a deep commitment to God’s Word. I am grateful for his ministry.”--Hance Dilbeck, president, GuideStone Financial Resources
“Charles Stanley exemplified resilience throughout his ministry, serving his people well with a deep commitment to God’s Word. I am grateful for his ministry.”--Hance Dilbeck, president, GuideStone Financial Resources
justin dillehay
Justin Dillehay (MDiv, The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary) is a pastor of Grace Baptist Church in Hartsville, Tennessee, where he resides with his wife and their three children.
Justin Dillehay
Comparing identity politics to a religion is nothing new or unusual. Voices ranging from Andrew Ferguson to Voddie Baucham have done so. The very language of being “woke” has religious overtones (cf. Rom. 13:11). A graphic example of this mixture of religious language with identity politics can be seen in a video of a woman protesting comedian Dave Chappelle’s supposedly transphobic Netflix special, repeatedly shouting “Repent, [expletive]!” As Rhys Laverty observed, this type of “preaching” offers no good news but rather “an endless, inescapable purgatory.” To Laverty, Joshua Mitchell would say “Amen.” Mitchell, professor of political theory at Georgetown University, is the latest Christian thinker to critique the religious nature of identity politics. In his book American Awakening: Identity Politics and Other Afflictions of Our Time, he argues “we are living in the midst of an American Awakening,” much like the Great Awakenings of the past—only this time “without God and without forgiveness” (41). Identity politics is the dogma of this new awakening and involves “the pride of believing that we ourselves are clean, that transgression is someone else’s problem, and not our own”.
--Justin Dillehay; Gospel Coalition: America’s Not-So-Great Awakening 2.6.23
--Justin Dillehay; Gospel Coalition: America’s Not-So-Great Awakening 2.6.23
“God does not create a longing or a hope without having a fulfilling reality ready for them. But our longing is our pledge, and blessed are the homesick, for they shall come home.” -Isak Dinesen
monica dobbins
Feb 16, 2023: ABC4: A moral obligation’: Religious leaders call on Utah lawmakers to save Great Salt Lake
“It’s their responsibility both as lawmakers and as people of faith, as individuals of faith, to take action now,” Reverend Monica Dobbins said. “We can’t wait.” Dobbins represented First Unitarian Church of Salt Lake City. She spoke about the need to act now before the lake’s deuteriation becomes irreversible.
“It’s their responsibility both as lawmakers and as people of faith, as individuals of faith, to take action now,” Reverend Monica Dobbins said. “We can’t wait.” Dobbins represented First Unitarian Church of Salt Lake City. She spoke about the need to act now before the lake’s deuteriation becomes irreversible.
james dobson
Christian psychologist and cultural commentator James Dobson is calling for the assassination of Russian President Vladimir Putin, stating in a newsletter: “Some murderous tyrants need to be ‘taken out’ to save innocent lives. That, at least, is my view.”
Writing to supporters of Dr. James Dobson Family Institute based in Colorado Springs, Dobson addressed Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and quoted Senator Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.), who stated in a March 3 tweet referring to Putin: “The only way this ends is for somebody in Russia to take this guy out.” -Josh Shepherd; Roys Report 3.22.22
Writing to supporters of Dr. James Dobson Family Institute based in Colorado Springs, Dobson addressed Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and quoted Senator Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.), who stated in a March 3 tweet referring to Putin: “The only way this ends is for somebody in Russia to take this guy out.” -Josh Shepherd; Roys Report 3.22.22
david s dockery
April 18, 2023: Baptist Press: SBC leaders, former presidents react to death of Charles Stanley
“Charles Stanley was an exemplary preacher and teacher of God’s Word. We are indeed grateful for the influence of his faithful ministry, which extended around the globe. While we mourn his loss, we celebrate the significant life and legacy of this Southwesterner, even as we give thanks for the hope of the resurrection.”--David S. Dockery, interim president, Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary
“Charles Stanley was an exemplary preacher and teacher of God’s Word. We are indeed grateful for the influence of his faithful ministry, which extended around the globe. While we mourn his loss, we celebrate the significant life and legacy of this Southwesterner, even as we give thanks for the hope of the resurrection.”--David S. Dockery, interim president, Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary
adam dooley
Adam Dooley
....we are to pray with commitment. The purpose of prayer is NOT to get our will done in heaven, but God’s will done on earth. Restricting the substance of our petitions to the will of God is key to receiving the answer we seek. Again, John reassures us, “This is the confidence which we have before Him, that, if we ask anything according to His will, He hears us (1 John 5:14).” By surrendering our desires to God’s design, we emulate the spirit of Jesus in Gethsemane as He prayed, “Not my will, but thy will be done (Matt. 26:39).”
But how can we discern God’s will in order to pray it? We know that God is willing to fill us with the knowledge of His will (Col. 1:9), but how does He do it? Holy Scripture and the Holy Spirit are the only trustworthy guides. God will not answer any prayer that contradicts His word or justifies sinful behavior (2 Tim. 3:16-17). The Bible lays down guidelines (some explicit and some implicit) for us to live by, and the Spirit of God reveals specific direction within those parameters. Those who have a submissive heart fully committed to God’s preference for their lives can pray knowing that God will always answer. E. Stanley Jones explained, “Prayer is surrender — surrender to the will of God and cooperation with that will. If I throw out a boat hook from a boat and catch hold of the shore and pull, do I pull the shore to me, or do I pull myself to the shore? Prayer is not pulling God to my will, but the aligning of my will to the will of God.”
--Adam Dooley; Kentucky Today; DOOLEY NOTED: The gift that we refuse 9.19.23
But how can we discern God’s will in order to pray it? We know that God is willing to fill us with the knowledge of His will (Col. 1:9), but how does He do it? Holy Scripture and the Holy Spirit are the only trustworthy guides. God will not answer any prayer that contradicts His word or justifies sinful behavior (2 Tim. 3:16-17). The Bible lays down guidelines (some explicit and some implicit) for us to live by, and the Spirit of God reveals specific direction within those parameters. Those who have a submissive heart fully committed to God’s preference for their lives can pray knowing that God will always answer. E. Stanley Jones explained, “Prayer is surrender — surrender to the will of God and cooperation with that will. If I throw out a boat hook from a boat and catch hold of the shore and pull, do I pull the shore to me, or do I pull myself to the shore? Prayer is not pulling God to my will, but the aligning of my will to the will of God.”
--Adam Dooley; Kentucky Today; DOOLEY NOTED: The gift that we refuse 9.19.23
jim dorman
Abigail Kessler
After hearing over three hours of public comment on the topic, Flagstaff City Council approved a resolution supporting abortion access in the city at its meeting Tuesday...........Many commenters who spoke against the resolution cited religion, specifically Christianity, as their reason for opposing abortion, quoting Bible verses and prayers and using religious language.
The group included a few local pastors: Joshua Walker, teaching elder of Church of the Resurrection (though he said he was here as a “concerned citizen” rather than a pastor), David Berry, senior pastor of Flagstaff Christian Fellowship, Barbara Swee, associate pastor of Northland Christian Assembly, and Jim Dorman, founding pastor (now retired) of Christ’s Church of Flagstaff. “I’m here today on behalf of myself and the nearly 300 people of my church,” Berry said. “ ... Together we are all in vehement opposition to the proposed resolution 2023-12. The mission of Flagstaff as we’ve been reminded is to protect and enhance the quality of life for all. That certainly includes the most vulnerable among us who cannot defend and speak for themselves, people in the womb.”
Some of those who supported the resolution mentioned the separation of church and state in their comments, saying that to act based on the religious beliefs of other commenters would go against it.
Northern Arizona University professor of comparative cultural studies Diana Coleman also noted that these beliefs were from a subset of one religion.
“We have not heard the religious side, as I’ve heard people say; we’ve heard from a thin, select fringe of conservative Christianity that doesn’t represent all of Christianity,” she said. “ ... We do have separation of church and state, we have the establishment clause. This religious-inflected dialogue is inappropriate to be forced on and also very disingenuous.”..........Matthews said the religious views should be heard, however, as they were community members’ perspectives.
“I don’t think that it was about well, this is a religious thing or a God thing, so you need to be shamed into making a decision,” she said. “ ... This is their belief and they are part of the community.”
In his part of the discussion, McCarthy said the question was about who was making decisions.
“Someone [tonight] said there are differing opinions on the issue. Well, that’s obvious. But one side, who would say ‘pro-choice,’ they’re saying, ‘I’m not going to make that decision for you.’ The other side is saying, ‘I want to make that decision for you.’” --Abigail Kessler; Arizona Daily Sun; Flagstaff City Council adopts resolution supporting abortion access 3.11.23
The group included a few local pastors: Joshua Walker, teaching elder of Church of the Resurrection (though he said he was here as a “concerned citizen” rather than a pastor), David Berry, senior pastor of Flagstaff Christian Fellowship, Barbara Swee, associate pastor of Northland Christian Assembly, and Jim Dorman, founding pastor (now retired) of Christ’s Church of Flagstaff. “I’m here today on behalf of myself and the nearly 300 people of my church,” Berry said. “ ... Together we are all in vehement opposition to the proposed resolution 2023-12. The mission of Flagstaff as we’ve been reminded is to protect and enhance the quality of life for all. That certainly includes the most vulnerable among us who cannot defend and speak for themselves, people in the womb.”
Some of those who supported the resolution mentioned the separation of church and state in their comments, saying that to act based on the religious beliefs of other commenters would go against it.
Northern Arizona University professor of comparative cultural studies Diana Coleman also noted that these beliefs were from a subset of one religion.
“We have not heard the religious side, as I’ve heard people say; we’ve heard from a thin, select fringe of conservative Christianity that doesn’t represent all of Christianity,” she said. “ ... We do have separation of church and state, we have the establishment clause. This religious-inflected dialogue is inappropriate to be forced on and also very disingenuous.”..........Matthews said the religious views should be heard, however, as they were community members’ perspectives.
“I don’t think that it was about well, this is a religious thing or a God thing, so you need to be shamed into making a decision,” she said. “ ... This is their belief and they are part of the community.”
In his part of the discussion, McCarthy said the question was about who was making decisions.
“Someone [tonight] said there are differing opinions on the issue. Well, that’s obvious. But one side, who would say ‘pro-choice,’ they’re saying, ‘I’m not going to make that decision for you.’ The other side is saying, ‘I want to make that decision for you.’” --Abigail Kessler; Arizona Daily Sun; Flagstaff City Council adopts resolution supporting abortion access 3.11.23
paul doyle
Jan 23, 2023: New Republic: The Rise of Spirit Warriors on the Christian Right
Among reactionary Pentecostals, the battle, to be clear, is fought not in the individual conscience but on the public stage. The political headlines, according to this way of thinking, are a clue to the desires of God and the plots of His enemies. Paul Doyle, a Pentecostal pastor of the Cornerstone Church in Batavia, New York, which hosted the ReAwaken America tour in April 2022, took aim at “leftist agenda policies,” “woke churches,” and “vaccines and critical race theory” and framed the struggle as “a new battle of good and evil.” “Jesus bloodied himself for me,” he said, “and I am ready to bloody myself for him.”
Among reactionary Pentecostals, the battle, to be clear, is fought not in the individual conscience but on the public stage. The political headlines, according to this way of thinking, are a clue to the desires of God and the plots of His enemies. Paul Doyle, a Pentecostal pastor of the Cornerstone Church in Batavia, New York, which hosted the ReAwaken America tour in April 2022, took aim at “leftist agenda policies,” “woke churches,” and “vaccines and critical race theory” and framed the struggle as “a new battle of good and evil.” “Jesus bloodied himself for me,” he said, “and I am ready to bloody myself for him.”
wayne drain |
Wayne Drain is the Founding Pastor of Fellowship of Christians (Now known as City Hope Church - Russellville). Married to June, they have three children and four grandchildren. He is a worship leader and song writer with EMI\Integrity Music and co-author of the book He Still Speaks. With a call to “pastor a great church and prophesy to the nations," Wayne is a conference speaker and an adviser for churches and worship teams in the U.S. and Europe.
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You are - The Hudson Taylors (Noel Richards, Brian Houston, Wayne Drain) Sep 20, 2016
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March 6, 2023: Prophetic Presbytery | Pastor E. Wayne Drain
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jimmy draper
April 18, 2023: Baptist Press: SBC leaders, former presidents react to death of Charles Stanley
“There are few places in the world where Charles Stanley cannot be heard and seen through In Touch ministries. He was truly the world’s pastor. It was my privilege to serve with him, preach for him and walk through some crucial times with him. He was a consistent proclaimer of God’s Word and touched millions of lives.”--Jimmy Draper, former SBC president
“There are few places in the world where Charles Stanley cannot be heard and seen through In Touch ministries. He was truly the world’s pastor. It was my privilege to serve with him, preach for him and walk through some crucial times with him. He was a consistent proclaimer of God’s Word and touched millions of lives.”--Jimmy Draper, former SBC president
rod Dreher
Mar 24, 2023: Premier Christianity: I've just been dismissed by a Christian college for tweets on homosexuality – if I wasn’t safe, no one is
Rod Dreher’s excellent book, Live Not By Lies (Sentinel), interviews Christians who suffered under Soviet communism and who now see similar totalitarian patterns in Western progressivism. One woman, a Soviet-born émigré now teaching at a US university, said: “You have no idea what completely normal things you do today, or say today, will be used against you to destroy you. This is what people in the Soviet Union saw. We know how this works.”
Rod Dreher’s excellent book, Live Not By Lies (Sentinel), interviews Christians who suffered under Soviet communism and who now see similar totalitarian patterns in Western progressivism. One woman, a Soviet-born émigré now teaching at a US university, said: “You have no idea what completely normal things you do today, or say today, will be used against you to destroy you. This is what people in the Soviet Union saw. We know how this works.”
jen dreiske
Jen Dreiske is the Deputy Director at South Dakota Voices for Peace, a Sioux Falls based nonprofit focused on inclusion for immigrant, refugree and Muslim communitess. And this column is part of an ongoing series of perspectives, called "Speaking Truth to Power," written by voices from a cohort of community leaders and residents weighing in on social issues and current events in South Dakota. The goal is to elevate voices from a diverse group of individuals by challenging issues through different views to contribute to ongoing community conversations.
Feb 19, 2023: Argus Leader: Dreiske: Religious freedom or religious fear?
As an active member of my Jewish Community as well as the Interfaith Community in Sioux Falls, I am greatly concerned about how the religious fear of one religious group is being imposed on the religious freedoms of our religiously diverse communities in South Dakota.
Religious freedom, according to the First Amendment to the U.S. Constitution, says everyone in the United States has the right to practice his or her own religion, or no religion at all. Religion is a set of communal beliefs, practices and perspectives that affect and provide direction for the believer’s life. It is a lens in which we see and interact with the world around us. Freedom is the power to be who we are without hindrance. Fear is the belief that something is dangerous.
As an active member of my Jewish Community as well as the Interfaith Community in Sioux Falls, I am greatly concerned about how the religious fear of one religious group is being imposed on the religious freedoms of our religiously diverse communities in South Dakota.
Religious freedom, according to the First Amendment to the U.S. Constitution, says everyone in the United States has the right to practice his or her own religion, or no religion at all. Religion is a set of communal beliefs, practices and perspectives that affect and provide direction for the believer’s life. It is a lens in which we see and interact with the world around us. Freedom is the power to be who we are without hindrance. Fear is the belief that something is dangerous.
mark dreistadt
May 16, 2023:
👉According to the "Faith and Wellness: Evangelical Insights on Healing and Physicians" report, released by Grey Matter Research and Infinity Concepts, 99% of evangelical Protestants agree that praying, reading the Bible, and having a strong Christian faith all contribute to positive mental health. "For evangelicals, it appears spiritual wellness is inextricably intertwined with both physical and mental wellness," said Mark Dreistadt, president and CEO of Infinity Concepts. He continued, "When we explore things such as whether they believe people can be healed through prayer or whether activities such as prayer and Bible reading have a positive impact on both mental and physical health, they almost universally agree. That's something we rarely see."
👉According to the "Faith and Wellness: Evangelical Insights on Healing and Physicians" report, released by Grey Matter Research and Infinity Concepts, 99% of evangelical Protestants agree that praying, reading the Bible, and having a strong Christian faith all contribute to positive mental health. "For evangelicals, it appears spiritual wellness is inextricably intertwined with both physical and mental wellness," said Mark Dreistadt, president and CEO of Infinity Concepts. He continued, "When we explore things such as whether they believe people can be healed through prayer or whether activities such as prayer and Bible reading have a positive impact on both mental and physical health, they almost universally agree. That's something we rarely see."
Ralph Drollinger
June 16, 2021: Salon: Kayleigh McEnany, Mike Pence, and the narcissistic apocalypse of the new evangelicals
Or Ralph Drollinger, who wrote that the coronavirus is the "consequential wrath of god," punishing America for its various moral depravations. Drollinger is a spiritual adviser to President Donald Trump.
Or Ralph Drollinger, who wrote that the coronavirus is the "consequential wrath of god," punishing America for its various moral depravations. Drollinger is a spiritual adviser to President Donald Trump.
Mar 27, 2020: Huffington Post: Amid COVID-19 Spread, Influential D.C. Pastor Says ‘God’s Wrath’ Caused By LGBTQ People
Ralph Drollinger, who leads a Bible study for Trump’s cabinet members, claims homosexuality, environmentalism and atheism are signs of God’s wrath.
Ralph Drollinger, who leads a Bible study for Trump’s cabinet members, claims homosexuality, environmentalism and atheism are signs of God’s wrath.
rebekah drumsta
June 7, 2023: Baptist News Global: How to connect the dots while watching Shiny Happy People
Of course, individuals watching the series may have deeply sensitive trauma they’re reminded of and still processing. Rebekah Drumsta, a survivor of abuse from the Institute of Basic Life Principles featured in the series, explained, “Shiny Happy People is collectively pacing so many of us through our painful childhoods which were riddled with spiritual abuse, physical and psychological abuse and religious trauma.”
Of course, individuals watching the series may have deeply sensitive trauma they’re reminded of and still processing. Rebekah Drumsta, a survivor of abuse from the Institute of Basic Life Principles featured in the series, explained, “Shiny Happy People is collectively pacing so many of us through our painful childhoods which were riddled with spiritual abuse, physical and psychological abuse and religious trauma.”
joseph d'souza
May 9, 2023:
Release International has received reports from India of Christians being attacked across 27 villages in Manipur, sometimes "in plain sight of state police and military, while mobs roamed the street". At least 60 people are reported dead, while around 50 churches have been set on fire and destroyed. The violence is concentrated on the Imphal Valley and Churachandpur, where tens of thousands of people have been forced to flee their homes. |
Bishop Joseph D'Souza, of the Good Shepherd Church in India, has asked people to pray for Manipur and the people of India. "The primary victims are the Christians. In this uncontrolled violence that took place in Manipur it was a systematic attack on the churches. I am told that in the plains almost all the churches are destroyed," he said. He continued, "'There is no question about tribal Christians being in the middle of the storm that has erupted in Manipur at this time." 5.9.23 |
April 17, 2023: Christian Post: George Verwer, evangelist and founder of OM International, dies at age 84
Archbishop Joseph D’Souza of the Anglican Good Shepherd Church of India gave his condolences in a piece published by The Christian Post on Saturday.
“George also always paid attention to where the winds of the spirit were blowing, and as a maturing church emerged in the Global South, he put his efforts into helping the church become sustainable,” wrote D’Souza.
Archbishop Joseph D’Souza of the Anglican Good Shepherd Church of India gave his condolences in a piece published by The Christian Post on Saturday.
“George also always paid attention to where the winds of the spirit were blowing, and as a maturing church emerged in the Global South, he put his efforts into helping the church become sustainable,” wrote D’Souza.
- Jerushah Duford - Julia Duin - Kristin Du Mez -J Ligon Duncan III - Charles Dyer - Will Dyer -