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- Past Witnesses -
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Richard Blackaby
June 28, 2021: Biblical Recorder: Jordon Willard recommended to serve as 2023 N.C. Pastors’ Conference president
Willard served as director of discipleship at the North Roanoke Baptist Association from 2013-16 and as a member of the church strengthening team at the South Roanoke Baptist Association in 2018. He helped organize church strengthening and revitalization conferences in 2018 and 2019, featuring speakers such as well-known author and speaker Richard Blackaby, seminary president Danny Akin and preaching professor Jim Shaddix.
Willard served as director of discipleship at the North Roanoke Baptist Association from 2013-16 and as a member of the church strengthening team at the South Roanoke Baptist Association in 2018. He helped organize church strengthening and revitalization conferences in 2018 and 2019, featuring speakers such as well-known author and speaker Richard Blackaby, seminary president Danny Akin and preaching professor Jim Shaddix.
Leonardo Blair
Oct 10, 2014: Leonardo Blair: Christian Post: Christian Graduate Gets Obscene Job Rejection Letter From Pro-Gay Viking Employer Calling Mary a 'Whore,' Threatening Jesus
Peter Boghossian
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Oct 16, 2021: Global Herald: Free Speech Nation The Podcast with Andrew Doyle: Episode 18 Peter Boghossian II
On the latest episode of Free Speech Nation, Peter Boghossian rejoins Andrew on the show. Peter is a writer, philosopher and the co-author with James Lindsay of a book called How to Have Impossible Conversations. Feb 11, 2015: Youtube: Re-creation of "A Conversation with Peter Boghossian" Feb 7, 2015: Thinking Christian: On Boghossian’s Making “Faith” Equal to “Pretending To Know What You Don’t Know” In his Manual for Creating Atheists, Peter Boghossian recommends that every time you see the word “faith,” you should feel replace it with “pretending to know what you don’t know.” Jan 1, 2015: Youtube: Peter Boghossian - Jesus, The Easter Bunny and Other Delusions: Just Say No! Nov 4, 2014: Religious News Service: Atheist author Peter Boghossian suggests gays shouldn’t be proud. Is he proud to be an atheist? -A few days ago, Peter Boghossian—a philosophy professor, speaker for the Richard Dawkins Foundation for Reason and Science, and author of A Manual for Creating Atheists—caused a stir when he posted the following statement on Facebook and Twitter |
Peter Gregory Boghossian (born c. 1966) is an American philosophy instructor, activist, author, speaker, and atheism advocate. He is a full-time faculty member at Portland State University. His primary research areas are critical thinking, philosophy of education, and moral reasoning. Boghossian is a speaker for the Center for Inquiry, the Richard Dawkins Foundation for Reason and Science, and the Secular Student Alliance. He has been nominated as a member of the Global Secular Council. His book, A Manual for Creating Atheists, was published in 2013. In it, he describes what he dubs "street epistemology", a set of techniques that atheists can use in personal conversations with religious believers to get them to think more critically with the eventual goal of religious disaffiliation. The book has inspired the creation of independent "street epistemology" groups |
June 10, 2014: First Things: The Pontificate of Peter Boghossian
Have you heard of Peter Boghossian’s social cleansing program? Boghossian is the author of a new bagatelle of a book, The Manual for Creating Atheists, endorsed by all the potentates of celebrity atheism, to name just a few: Jerry Coyne (Adam Gopnik’s favorite blogger, according to a recent article of his in the The New Yorker) and the usual suspects Richard Dawkins and Victor Stenger . . . (and so on
Have you heard of Peter Boghossian’s social cleansing program? Boghossian is the author of a new bagatelle of a book, The Manual for Creating Atheists, endorsed by all the potentates of celebrity atheism, to name just a few: Jerry Coyne (Adam Gopnik’s favorite blogger, according to a recent article of his in the The New Yorker) and the usual suspects Richard Dawkins and Victor Stenger . . . (and so on
brewer-calvert
Dec 17, 2022: Frederick News-Post: Some Georgia pastors push back against spread of Christian nationalism
The Rev. James Brewer-Calvert, senior pastor of First Christian Church of Decatur, recently addressed the issue of Christian nationalism for his congregation. He said Christian nationalism is a threat. “The drive to yoke church and state endangers our republic’s foundation of liberty to practice — or not to practice — religion, and governmental autonomy from faith-based organizations.”
Brewer-Calvert said he felt it is necessary to “educate and prepare folks because it’s a serious and very present threat to both our country and our collective faith journey.”
The Rev. James Brewer-Calvert, senior pastor of First Christian Church of Decatur, recently addressed the issue of Christian nationalism for his congregation. He said Christian nationalism is a threat. “The drive to yoke church and state endangers our republic’s foundation of liberty to practice — or not to practice — religion, and governmental autonomy from faith-based organizations.”
Brewer-Calvert said he felt it is necessary to “educate and prepare folks because it’s a serious and very present threat to both our country and our collective faith journey.”
jamal bryant
Apr 19, 2013: Dallas Morning News: Televangelist Juanita Bynum jailed in Dallas for failure to appear in civil proceeding
Gospel performer and televangelist Juanita Bynum spent the night in the Lew Sterrett Justice Center after authorities arrested her on a warrant for her failure to appear in a Dallas civil proceeding against her, according to public records.
Gospel performer and televangelist Juanita Bynum spent the night in the Lew Sterrett Justice Center after authorities arrested her on a warrant for her failure to appear in a Dallas civil proceeding against her, according to public records.
Dec 9, 2022: Relevant: Megachurch Pastor Wants to Grow Weed on Church Property
Atlanta megachurch pastor Jamal Bryant wants to reach the masses, and he’s got an unorthodox strategy to do it.
“New Birth is the largest land-owning Black church in America,” Bryant said. “My position to my deacons is ‘why aren’t we not raising cannabis?”
During a recent appearance on The Cool Soror Podcast with Rashan Ali, the pastor of New Birth Missionary Baptist Church in Georgia made a bold statement: he was looking for male congregants that “smell like weed.”
Atlanta megachurch pastor Jamal Bryant wants to reach the masses, and he’s got an unorthodox strategy to do it.
“New Birth is the largest land-owning Black church in America,” Bryant said. “My position to my deacons is ‘why aren’t we not raising cannabis?”
During a recent appearance on The Cool Soror Podcast with Rashan Ali, the pastor of New Birth Missionary Baptist Church in Georgia made a bold statement: he was looking for male congregants that “smell like weed.”
troy bush
Dec 17, 2022: Frederick News-Post: Some Georgia pastors push back against spread of Christian nationalism
The Rev. Troy Bush, senior pastor of Rehoboth Baptist Church in Tucker said because of the lack of a clear definition, he has not used the term Christian nationalism specifically in his sermons or classes. But he has said that Christians should be devoted first to Jesus.
While he sees no problem with people being patriotic or voting based on their values, he doesn’t think the founding fathers intended for the U.S. to be an exclusively Christian nation.
“Jesus has not called us to establish a theocracy in our city, state, or country nor are we to make the White House or Congress a church house,” he said.
The Rev. Troy Bush, senior pastor of Rehoboth Baptist Church in Tucker said because of the lack of a clear definition, he has not used the term Christian nationalism specifically in his sermons or classes. But he has said that Christians should be devoted first to Jesus.
While he sees no problem with people being patriotic or voting based on their values, he doesn’t think the founding fathers intended for the U.S. to be an exclusively Christian nation.
“Jesus has not called us to establish a theocracy in our city, state, or country nor are we to make the White House or Congress a church house,” he said.
JUANITA BYNUM
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Aug 30, 2021: Roll To Disbelieve: Speaking in Tongues on TikTok (LSP #207)
For some reason, tongues talking Christians love to put this nonsense onto social media. Besides the YouTube examples you can find, some years back we all had a good larf at Juanita Bynum, who kept speaking in tongues on her Facebook posts. She was famous for this behavior. If someone saw her posts today, they'd just ask her if she was having a stroke Aug 31, 2016: All Christian News: New Video Shows Prophetess Juanita Bynum Looking Like She’s Demon PossessedProphetess Juanita Bynum recently posted a video on Facebook showing her looking very strange. Her skin and makeup all appear totally different. Both her eyes and skin kind of made her look like she was possessed by some kind of spirit; and it didn’t appear like it was Jesus. Mar 26, 2015: Welcome to Ready Church: Juanita Bynum meets Papa
Jan 9, 2015: Youtube: Dr Juanita Bynum | Divine Healing Benny Hinn Guest Speaker, JAN 09, 2015 | Juanita Bynum 2015 | Nov 24, 2014: All Christian News: 10 things you may not know about Pastor Juanita Bynum Juanita Bynum is an empowerment and spiritual televangelist who aims to fuel people to live a life of integrity, success and happiness. Bynum has also accomplished a number of musical projects which have given her platinum sales in the gospel category. Let us take a look at some other facts in the life of the renowned life and spiritual evangelist |
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Emma Colton
james conrad
caleb campbell |
Pheonix Pastor; Desert Springs Bible Church
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Kirk Cameron
Tony Campolo
- DA Carson -
Tim Challies
ray comfort
Throughout history, politicians have used religious language to win elections. One world leader was particularly good at it:
"In this hour I would ask of the Lord God only this: that He would give His blessing to our work, and that He may ever give us the courage to do the right. I am convinced that men who are created by God should live in accordance with the will of the Almighty. No man can fashion world history unless upon his purpose and his powers there rests the blessings of this Providence."
That may sound like an ideal leader, but that speech was given in 1937 by the Chancellor of Germany, Adolf Hitler. In his speeches, he challenged people to love their neighbors, to care for the poor and sick, and to take a stand against violence.
“His speeches were filled with hope,” says Ray Comfort, the author of Hitler, God & the Bible. “He says ‘I’m going to restore the glory.’ He also said that ‘I believe I am acting in the sense of the Almighty Creator.‘”
In public, Hitler often referred to himself as a follower of Christ. Even today, many people still believe the Holocaust was carried out in the name of Christianity, but what was the real relationship between God and Hitler?
“Adolf Hitler was the nastiest, most hate-filled, almost wickedest man in history,” says Comfort, “and to say that he was a Christian is to be tremendously ignorant, or to be disingenuous.”
As a child, Hitler was baptized into the Catholic Church. He was an altar boy, and at one point he even wanted to become a priest. But as history would later show, a church member and a Christian are two different things.
From his earliest political speeches, Hitler invoked God: a smart political move in the mostly Christian nation of Germany.
“At the very beginning of his career, Adolf Hitler was a baby-kisser, believe it or not,” says Comfort. “Even nowadays, if you want to get anywhere as a politician, you flavor your language and your speeches with maybe a Bible verse here and there, maybe have your picture taken with a robed minister outside his church on a Sunday, show up at a prayer breakfast and say something about God – then once you’re in your place of political authority, you can let your agenda come out, and that’s exactly what Hitler did.”
One of Hitler’s most public shows of solidarity with the Church was the signing of the Nazi-Vatican Concordat in 1933.
“That pact was that the Catholic Church would support Adolf Hitler politically, and Hitler would make sure they had freedom of religion,” Comfort explains. “Hitler in 1933 said wonderful things about Christianity. He even said he hated atheism and wanted to get rid of it in the country, so Hitler was a wolf in sheep’s clothing, and he did pull the wool over the Catholic Church.”
So if Hitler wasn’t a Christian himself, why did he go to so much trouble to win the support of the Church?
As one author put it, he knew Christians would interfere with his plans if they were not hoodwinked first.
What you won’t hear in history class is that Hitler wasn’t just out to eliminate the Jews: he wanted to get rid of Christianity as well.
Hitler Youth leader Baldur von Schirach said, “The destruction of Christianity was explicitly recognized as a purpose of the national socialist movement.”
So where were Germany’s Christians in all this? Most of them were too frightened to protest, but a small remnant of Christians did stand up against the Reich Church. A group of 3,000 Protestants known as the “Confessing Church” openly defied Hitler and paid the price.
Hitler said, “I’ll make those damned pastors feel the power of the state in a way they’ve never believed possible. If I ever have the slightest suspicion that they’re getting dangerous, I’ll shoot the lot of them.”
Seven-hundred pastors from the Confessing Church were arrested. Many of them were murdered or sent to concentration camps.
“There is such a thing as evil, in my judgment, and this man is evil,” says Santoro. “Hitler has no permanent loyalties. If you cross him, you'll die.”
The most important aspect of Christianity that Hitler ignored was the belief that Jesus Christ is the Son of God and the Savior of the world. That’s a role Hitler preferred to take for himself. And even when he did mention Jesus, it wasn’t the Jesus of the Bible. For example, he refused to admit the fact that Jesus was Jewish.
“They didn’t take any notice of John 4, where the woman at the well says, ‘How is it, you being a Jew…’ and Jesus didn’t say, ‘Hang on – I’m a gentile.’” says Comfort. “And then you find the genealogies in the book of Luke; they go right back through David, through to Abraham, so obviously, they didn’t believe the scriptures, and they made up their own Jesus. “
The Jesus Hitler made up was an Aryan, to whom he often referred as “The Nazarene” and “the first great enemy of the Jews.”
Hitler denied the deity of Christ and forced people to worship him as god. Then he killed or imprisoned hundreds of Christian pastors and developed a detailed plan to destroy the Church. If he was a Christian, as many people suggest, then he wasn’t a very good one.
“If you are regenerated by the Holy Spirit, if you are truly born again, you will have the evidence of fruit,” says Comfort. “The fruit of righteousness, the fruit of praise, the fruit of thanksgiving, the fruit of repentance, and especially, the fruit of the spirit: love, joy, peace, patience, goodness, generous, faith, meekness and temperance. So if you haven’t got love, you are not a Christian.”
If someone claims to be a prophet and does not acknowledge the truth about Jesus, that person is not from God. Such a person has the spirit of the Antichrist.
Anyone who does not love does not know God, for God is love.
There is no fear in love; but perfect love casts out fear.
I John 4:3, 8, 18
- Ray Comfort; Was Hitler a Christian?
"In this hour I would ask of the Lord God only this: that He would give His blessing to our work, and that He may ever give us the courage to do the right. I am convinced that men who are created by God should live in accordance with the will of the Almighty. No man can fashion world history unless upon his purpose and his powers there rests the blessings of this Providence."
That may sound like an ideal leader, but that speech was given in 1937 by the Chancellor of Germany, Adolf Hitler. In his speeches, he challenged people to love their neighbors, to care for the poor and sick, and to take a stand against violence.
“His speeches were filled with hope,” says Ray Comfort, the author of Hitler, God & the Bible. “He says ‘I’m going to restore the glory.’ He also said that ‘I believe I am acting in the sense of the Almighty Creator.‘”
In public, Hitler often referred to himself as a follower of Christ. Even today, many people still believe the Holocaust was carried out in the name of Christianity, but what was the real relationship between God and Hitler?
“Adolf Hitler was the nastiest, most hate-filled, almost wickedest man in history,” says Comfort, “and to say that he was a Christian is to be tremendously ignorant, or to be disingenuous.”
As a child, Hitler was baptized into the Catholic Church. He was an altar boy, and at one point he even wanted to become a priest. But as history would later show, a church member and a Christian are two different things.
From his earliest political speeches, Hitler invoked God: a smart political move in the mostly Christian nation of Germany.
“At the very beginning of his career, Adolf Hitler was a baby-kisser, believe it or not,” says Comfort. “Even nowadays, if you want to get anywhere as a politician, you flavor your language and your speeches with maybe a Bible verse here and there, maybe have your picture taken with a robed minister outside his church on a Sunday, show up at a prayer breakfast and say something about God – then once you’re in your place of political authority, you can let your agenda come out, and that’s exactly what Hitler did.”
One of Hitler’s most public shows of solidarity with the Church was the signing of the Nazi-Vatican Concordat in 1933.
“That pact was that the Catholic Church would support Adolf Hitler politically, and Hitler would make sure they had freedom of religion,” Comfort explains. “Hitler in 1933 said wonderful things about Christianity. He even said he hated atheism and wanted to get rid of it in the country, so Hitler was a wolf in sheep’s clothing, and he did pull the wool over the Catholic Church.”
So if Hitler wasn’t a Christian himself, why did he go to so much trouble to win the support of the Church?
As one author put it, he knew Christians would interfere with his plans if they were not hoodwinked first.
What you won’t hear in history class is that Hitler wasn’t just out to eliminate the Jews: he wanted to get rid of Christianity as well.
Hitler Youth leader Baldur von Schirach said, “The destruction of Christianity was explicitly recognized as a purpose of the national socialist movement.”
So where were Germany’s Christians in all this? Most of them were too frightened to protest, but a small remnant of Christians did stand up against the Reich Church. A group of 3,000 Protestants known as the “Confessing Church” openly defied Hitler and paid the price.
Hitler said, “I’ll make those damned pastors feel the power of the state in a way they’ve never believed possible. If I ever have the slightest suspicion that they’re getting dangerous, I’ll shoot the lot of them.”
Seven-hundred pastors from the Confessing Church were arrested. Many of them were murdered or sent to concentration camps.
“There is such a thing as evil, in my judgment, and this man is evil,” says Santoro. “Hitler has no permanent loyalties. If you cross him, you'll die.”
The most important aspect of Christianity that Hitler ignored was the belief that Jesus Christ is the Son of God and the Savior of the world. That’s a role Hitler preferred to take for himself. And even when he did mention Jesus, it wasn’t the Jesus of the Bible. For example, he refused to admit the fact that Jesus was Jewish.
“They didn’t take any notice of John 4, where the woman at the well says, ‘How is it, you being a Jew…’ and Jesus didn’t say, ‘Hang on – I’m a gentile.’” says Comfort. “And then you find the genealogies in the book of Luke; they go right back through David, through to Abraham, so obviously, they didn’t believe the scriptures, and they made up their own Jesus. “
The Jesus Hitler made up was an Aryan, to whom he often referred as “The Nazarene” and “the first great enemy of the Jews.”
Hitler denied the deity of Christ and forced people to worship him as god. Then he killed or imprisoned hundreds of Christian pastors and developed a detailed plan to destroy the Church. If he was a Christian, as many people suggest, then he wasn’t a very good one.
“If you are regenerated by the Holy Spirit, if you are truly born again, you will have the evidence of fruit,” says Comfort. “The fruit of righteousness, the fruit of praise, the fruit of thanksgiving, the fruit of repentance, and especially, the fruit of the spirit: love, joy, peace, patience, goodness, generous, faith, meekness and temperance. So if you haven’t got love, you are not a Christian.”
If someone claims to be a prophet and does not acknowledge the truth about Jesus, that person is not from God. Such a person has the spirit of the Antichrist.
Anyone who does not love does not know God, for God is love.
There is no fear in love; but perfect love casts out fear.
I John 4:3, 8, 18
- Ray Comfort; Was Hitler a Christian?
William Lane Craig
Michael Curry
Red Letter Christians: Why the False Prophets of Christian Nationalism Don’t Speak for Me
In an important panel discussion with the Christians Against Christian Nationalism initiative and Jim Wallis last week, Episcopal Church Presiding Bishop Michael Curry underscored an important fact: Christian Nationalism* is not Christianity. “If you look at the complex of white Christian Nationalism as an ideology,” Curry warned, “you lay it alongside Jesus of Nazareth and we’re not even talking about the same thing.” 11.4.22 |
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MICHAEL DEMASTUS
Nov 18, 2020: The Courier: GUEST COLUMN: Local pastors oppose mask mandate
This column was submitted by Pastor Keeton Wainscott, Calvary Baptist Church, Waterloo; the Rev. Cary Gordon of Cornerstone World Outreach in Sioux City; Pastor Michael Demastus of the Fort Des Moines Church of Christ in Des Moines; the Rev. Christian Shields of Christian Life Church of Cedar Rapids; and Pastor Sam Jones, Faith Baptist Church, Hudson.
Apr 10, 2015: BCNN: What is America Coming To? A Witch Offers Invocation in Iowa House as Christians Pray Elsewhere
Pastor Michael Demastus of the Fort Des Moines Church of Christ organized a group of Christians who prayed at the Capitol on Thursday morning in response to Maynard’s appearance. He said he doesn’t dispute Maynard’s constitutional right to pray as she wishes, but he would rather have legislators hearing lessons from the God of the Bible
This column was submitted by Pastor Keeton Wainscott, Calvary Baptist Church, Waterloo; the Rev. Cary Gordon of Cornerstone World Outreach in Sioux City; Pastor Michael Demastus of the Fort Des Moines Church of Christ in Des Moines; the Rev. Christian Shields of Christian Life Church of Cedar Rapids; and Pastor Sam Jones, Faith Baptist Church, Hudson.
Apr 10, 2015: BCNN: What is America Coming To? A Witch Offers Invocation in Iowa House as Christians Pray Elsewhere
Pastor Michael Demastus of the Fort Des Moines Church of Christ organized a group of Christians who prayed at the Capitol on Thursday morning in response to Maynard’s appearance. He said he doesn’t dispute Maynard’s constitutional right to pray as she wishes, but he would rather have legislators hearing lessons from the God of the Bible
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.
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
Roma Downey
She has the voice of an angel – an Irish angel that is. Actress Roma Downey grew to fame on the TV series “Touched by an Angel,” telling millions of viewers each week that “There is a God, that He loves you, and wants to be a part of your life.” It’s a message that’s now embedded in her work with husband/producer Mark Burnett. Their mini-series on The Bible a few years ago became a surprise hit; a surprise to the secular world of Hollywood elites that is, not to Roma and Mark. Their latest offering is on the cornerstone of Christianity, The Resurrection. It’s a film that would have been released in theaters, but because of the pandemic it could not be. -Fox News Radio 2.6.22
Writing for CNN, Cardinal Timothy Dolan, Roma Downey and Mark Burnett make their plea in light of the massacre of Christian college students in Kenya and ongoing threats against Christians elsewhere.
They say: "We are calling upon Christians to also reflect upon the crucifixion, beheading, stoning, enforced slavery, sexual abuse, human trafficking, harassment, bombing and displacement of hundreds of thousands of Christians -- and others -- whose faith alone has made them a target of religious extremists."
They mention persecution in countries such as Iraq, Syria, Libya, Pakistan, India, Egypt, Kenya and Nigeria. -Ruth Giedhill; Christian Today; 4.8.15
They say: "We are calling upon Christians to also reflect upon the crucifixion, beheading, stoning, enforced slavery, sexual abuse, human trafficking, harassment, bombing and displacement of hundreds of thousands of Christians -- and others -- whose faith alone has made them a target of religious extremists."
They mention persecution in countries such as Iraq, Syria, Libya, Pakistan, India, Egypt, Kenya and Nigeria. -Ruth Giedhill; Christian Today; 4.8.15
"It was an extraordinary time, and I have to say, Hollywood gets a bad rap. I think there's a lot of good people there and a lot of good people doing good work. While shooting 'Touched by an Angel' it was unusual perhaps for a Hollywood set that we would gather hands before those scenes and we would pray — pray that there would be less of us and there would be more of God, and that there would be an opportunity through the camera that the Holy Spirit could move through the camera and touch people's hearts." -Roma Downey
"Touched By an Angel" taught about God from a monolithic viewpoint where there was God...but far less common for anyone to mention Jesus Christ or any suggestion of salvation through Him and Him alone. Downey's efforts are largeley new ageist. -ZR
"Touched By an Angel" taught about God from a monolithic viewpoint where there was God...but far less common for anyone to mention Jesus Christ or any suggestion of salvation through Him and Him alone. Downey's efforts are largeley new ageist. -ZR
| Roma Downey (born 6 May 1960) is an Irish actress and Emmy nominated producer from Northern Ireland. She played kind-hearted angel Monica on the American TV series Touched by an Angel, alongside Della Reese; they remained close friends after the series. Downey received two Emmy and Golden Globe nominations for her role on the show. Downey is an ambassador for Operation Smile. She is an author of three books for children and producer of the children's series, Little Angels. She was the executive producer of the television miniseries The Bible on the History channel, in which she also played the role of Mary. Downey and her husband Mark Burnett produced the movie version of the series, Son of God, which was released on February 28, 2014, and was distributed by 20th Century Fox. Its sequel, A.D.: The Bible Continues, premiered on NBC Easter Sunday, April 5, 2015 |
LIGON DUNCAN
Jan 18, 2021: Kentucky Today: Mississippi flag change influenced by SBC resolution
Ligon Duncan, chancellor of Reformed Theological Seminary in Jackson, also issued a statement at Gunn’s request.
Apr 1, 2015: Youtube:The Inerrancy Summit - General Session 05 - Ligon Duncan
Ligon Duncan, chancellor of Reformed Theological Seminary in Jackson, also issued a statement at Gunn’s request.
Apr 1, 2015: Youtube:The Inerrancy Summit - General Session 05 - Ligon Duncan
| At 28, Ligon was elected to the faculty of Reformed Theological Seminary (RTS). In 1990, Duncan was ordained in the Presbyterian Church in America (PCA) and began to teach at RTS, Jackson, Miss., where he eventually became chairman of the department of systematic theology, and the John R. Richardson Professor of Theology. Over time at RTS he has lectured regularly at three of the campuses (Jackson, Charlotte, and Orlando) and he has taught all of the core Systematic Theology courses, Pastoral/Social Ethics, Apologetics, History of Philosophy and Christian Thought, Covenant Theology, Patristics, Evangelism, Worship, Church History, Philosophical Theology, Scottish Theology, Contemporary Theology, and Theology of the Westminster Standards. He left his full-time position at RTS to become Senior Minister of the historic First Presbyterian Church (1837) in Jackson, Miss., in 1996 and served until 2013, while continuing to teach at RTS as adjunct. He returned to the regular faculty of RTS in 2012 and became Chancellor/CEO of RTS in 2013. Ligon has authored, co-authored, edited or contributed to more than 35 books including, The Underestimated Gospel (B&H, 2014), The Unadjusted Gospel (Crossway, 2014), Gospel Clarity: Challenging the New Perspective on Paul (with Bill Barcley) (Evangelical Press, 2011), Children and the Lord’s Supper (Mentor, 2011), Baptism and the Lord’s Supper (Crossway, 2011), Entrusted with the Gospel (Crossway, 2010), Perspectives on Christian Worship (B&H, 2009), Does Grace Grow Best in Winter? (P&R, 2009), Fear Not (Christian Focus, 2008), Women’s Ministry in the Local Church (Crossway, 2006), Should We Leave our Churches (P&R, 2004), The Westminster Confession in the 2lst Century: Essays in Remembrance of the 350th Anniversary of the Westminster Assembly, (Mentor, 2003, 2004, 2009), Give Praise to God: A Vision for Reforming Worship, (P&R, 2003), The Genesis Debate, (Crux Press, 2000), and Matthew Henry’s Method for Prayer, (Christian Focus Publications/Christian Heritage, 1994). |
- jesse duplantis -
Will Dyer
Dec 17, 2022: Frederick News-Post: Some Georgia pastors push back against spread of Christian nationalism
The way the Rev. Will Dyer sees it, if pastors aren’t speaking out against Christian nationalism, then they’re making a huge mistake.
Dyer, senior pastor of First Baptist Church of Augusta, Georgia, has addressed the ideology in his sermons and in private conversations with members, cautioning against the philosophy that some say calls for the blending of religion and government.
His stance cost him about 10 members from his congregation, which has an average Sunday attendance of 1,000.
The way the Rev. Will Dyer sees it, if pastors aren’t speaking out against Christian nationalism, then they’re making a huge mistake.
Dyer, senior pastor of First Baptist Church of Augusta, Georgia, has addressed the ideology in his sermons and in private conversations with members, cautioning against the philosophy that some say calls for the blending of religion and government.
His stance cost him about 10 members from his congregation, which has an average Sunday attendance of 1,000.
kevin Eckstrom
Feb 9, 2022: Ministry Watch: LGBTQ Community Organize Petition Against Max Lucado Preaching at Washington National Cathedral
Cathedral spokesman Kevin Eckstrom emphasized that Lucado, a popular author and teaching minister at Oak Hills Church in San Antonio, Texas, was not asked to preach on LGBTQ issues. The subject of his sermon, which was pre-recorded and aired as planned Feb. 7, was “how God can bring calm to our chaos.” The Right Rev. V. Gene Robinson, retired Episcopal bishop of New Hampshire and the first openly gay bishop in the Anglican communion, presided over the service where Lucado preached.
Cathedral spokesman Kevin Eckstrom emphasized that Lucado, a popular author and teaching minister at Oak Hills Church in San Antonio, Texas, was not asked to preach on LGBTQ issues. The subject of his sermon, which was pre-recorded and aired as planned Feb. 7, was “how God can bring calm to our chaos.” The Right Rev. V. Gene Robinson, retired Episcopal bishop of New Hampshire and the first openly gay bishop in the Anglican communion, presided over the service where Lucado preached.
Oct 1, 2021: The Hoya: National Cathedral To Replace Confederate Imagery With Art Honoring Black American History
The Washington National Cathedral formed a task force to decide the future of the Confederate stained glass following a 2015 shooting at a historically Black church in Charleston, S.C. After the 2017 “Unite the Right” white supremacist rally in Charlottesville, Va., the task force ultimately decided that the windows should be replaced with art that did not exclusively center on white historical perspectives, according to Kevin Eckstrom, chief communications officer at the Washington National Cathedral.
The Washington National Cathedral formed a task force to decide the future of the Confederate stained glass following a 2015 shooting at a historically Black church in Charleston, S.C. After the 2017 “Unite the Right” white supremacist rally in Charlottesville, Va., the task force ultimately decided that the windows should be replaced with art that did not exclusively center on white historical perspectives, according to Kevin Eckstrom, chief communications officer at the Washington National Cathedral.
June 18, 2020: Christian Headlines: Financially Hit by COVID-19, Washington National Cathedral Lays Off Staff
The cathedral’s doors have been closed since March 12, preventing tourists and worshippers from visiting during what is usually the 113-year-old neo-Gothic landmark’s busiest time of year. In an email to Religion News Service, Chief Communications Officer Kevin Eckstrom said that while donor support has remained strong despite holding only online services, the cathedral has been unable to rent its buildings and grounds for events, which normally helps underwrite operations.
The cathedral’s doors have been closed since March 12, preventing tourists and worshippers from visiting during what is usually the 113-year-old neo-Gothic landmark’s busiest time of year. In an email to Religion News Service, Chief Communications Officer Kevin Eckstrom said that while donor support has remained strong despite holding only online services, the cathedral has been unable to rent its buildings and grounds for events, which normally helps underwrite operations.
Evan Edwards
NEIL ELLIS
Nov 17, 2020: Eyewitness News: Bishop Ellis urges Bimini residents to follow COVID protocols
Global United Fellowship Bishop Neil Ellis today urged residents of Bimini to adhere to COVID-19 protocols. His appeal comes on the heels of a large beach party on Bimini over the weekend drawing public criticism and police citations.
Global United Fellowship Bishop Neil Ellis today urged residents of Bimini to adhere to COVID-19 protocols. His appeal comes on the heels of a large beach party on Bimini over the weekend drawing public criticism and police citations.
Apr 7, 2015: All Christian News: Multi-platinum Gospel Recording Artist Marvin Sapp Becomes Bishop
Bishop Neil Ellis has requested Pastor Marvin Sapp — a multi-platinum gospel recording artist — to become a bishop in his organization, Gulf United Fellowship.
Dec 20, 2014: Youtube: "The Wave of Glory" Bishop Neil C. Ellis Mime - Shekinah Prophetic Dance Ministry
Shekinah Prophetic Dance Ministry introduction of a mime to "The Wave of Glory" by Bishop Neil C Ellis
Bishop Neil Ellis has requested Pastor Marvin Sapp — a multi-platinum gospel recording artist — to become a bishop in his organization, Gulf United Fellowship.
Dec 20, 2014: Youtube: "The Wave of Glory" Bishop Neil C. Ellis Mime - Shekinah Prophetic Dance Ministry
Shekinah Prophetic Dance Ministry introduction of a mime to "The Wave of Glory" by Bishop Neil C Ellis
Sept 3, 2014: Always A-List: What A Fellowship: Top Christian Leaders Gather For Bishop Neil Ellis
In the Bible, the scripture says in James 2:26: “Faith apart from works is dead.” That appears to be the mission of Global United Fellowship (GUF), an organization established in 2013 under the leadership of Bishop Neil C. Ellis.
Aug 16, 2014: BCNN1: Neil C. Ellis, Presiding Bishop of the Global United Fellowship, Issues Statement Regarding the Shooting of Mike Brown in Ferguson, MO
It is with a deep sense of outrage and a heavy heart that I address the Ferguson, MO shooting of an unarmed teenager earlier this week. On behalf of Global United Fellowship, I offer my deepest condolences to the parents, family and friends of Mike Brown. Your loss, under any circumstances, would be intensely significant. Under the tragedy of these circumstances, your loss is indescribable. I pray that the God we know as comforter brings you peace as you wrestle with your unimaginable personal grief.
In the Bible, the scripture says in James 2:26: “Faith apart from works is dead.” That appears to be the mission of Global United Fellowship (GUF), an organization established in 2013 under the leadership of Bishop Neil C. Ellis.
Aug 16, 2014: BCNN1: Neil C. Ellis, Presiding Bishop of the Global United Fellowship, Issues Statement Regarding the Shooting of Mike Brown in Ferguson, MO
It is with a deep sense of outrage and a heavy heart that I address the Ferguson, MO shooting of an unarmed teenager earlier this week. On behalf of Global United Fellowship, I offer my deepest condolences to the parents, family and friends of Mike Brown. Your loss, under any circumstances, would be intensely significant. Under the tragedy of these circumstances, your loss is indescribable. I pray that the God we know as comforter brings you peace as you wrestle with your unimaginable personal grief.
Christopher Esget |
- Esgetology -
|
Deaconess Tiffany Manor, director of Life Ministry for The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod (LCMS), explained the connection: “We like to start with a Divine Service in which we receive the forgiveness of sins, lament the lives lost to abortion, and are strengthened through the Word preached to us and the Sacraments received.”
Following the service, worshipers exited the church, led by the processional cross. “The liturgical statement of the crucifix leading us both toward the altar and, later, out of the church is a statement that in this alone is the good that overcomes the world’s evil,” preached the Rev. Christopher Esget, senior pastor of Immanuel and fifth vice-president of the LCMS. Esget continued, “The march for life is a march behind the cross.” -Roy S Askins; LCMS Reporter 3.3.22
Following the service, worshipers exited the church, led by the processional cross. “The liturgical statement of the crucifix leading us both toward the altar and, later, out of the church is a statement that in this alone is the good that overcomes the world’s evil,” preached the Rev. Christopher Esget, senior pastor of Immanuel and fifth vice-president of the LCMS. Esget continued, “The march for life is a march behind the cross.” -Roy S Askins; LCMS Reporter 3.3.22
| The Reverend Christopher S. Esget has served as Immanuel's Pastor (Alexandria, Virginia) since 2001. He is married to Kassie, and they have one son, James.
Before coming to Immanuel, Pastor Esget served at Bethel Lutheran Church, DuQuoin, IL, where he was ordained in 1998. He attended Concordia Theological Seminary (Fort Wayne, IN) where he earned the Master of Divinity degree (1997, concentration in systematic theology) and the Master of Sacred Theology degree (2005, major in systematic theology, minor in church history). His STM thesis was a comparison of the doctrine of original sin in Patristic and contemporary Eastern Orthodox theology. Pastor Esget's undergraduate degree is from Berklee College of Music (Summa cum laude 1993, with an emphasis in film scoring). He also studied classical piano performance at the University of Minnesota. Pastor Esget is the Fifth Vice-President of the Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod (East-Southeast Region; 2015 – present). He is a member of the Board of Regents of Concordia College—New York. He is a contributing author to The Gates of Hell: Confessing Christ in a Hostile World (CPH, 2018) and Words of Strength and Promise: Devotions for Youth (CPH 2021). |
Amy-Orr Ewing
"Cultivation in the Christian life is about welcoming the tender hands of the gardener," she (Amy-Orr Ewing) said. She cited John 15 regarding how the hands of God are at work cultivating His communities of disciples. "We are grafted from Jesus himself," she added.
She spoke about the "weather system" used by God such as storms and disruptions. According to her, it was written in the scripture that "Jesus doesn't prevent storms from coming" but rather "He cultivated His people to overcome it." "Cultivation is recognizing the time that we're in and understanding the impact of the weather system on our community," she explained.
According to her, from the 20th century onwards, people got to mass-produce. "Machine-like agriculture has been the same thing in the Church," she claimed. She criticized the 'mechanized mass production' approach to religion. "The Church fights the seasons so that we can just mass-produce so that we can consume, consume, consume, and within agriculture that's destroyed soil, it's yielded fruit that isn't so tasty," she said. "Resist the impetus to insist on a perpetual summer or constant harvest if we're going to agree that God is good," she encouraged. "Let the gardener do His will," she added. She believed that people must loosen up and let the Holy Spirit do His work. She then cited the bible on John 3:5-8 saying "Jesus answered, "Truly, truly, I say to you, unless one is born of water and the Spirit, he cannot enter the kingdom of God..." -Cyrel Tajanlangit ; Christianity Daily 3.21.22
She spoke about the "weather system" used by God such as storms and disruptions. According to her, it was written in the scripture that "Jesus doesn't prevent storms from coming" but rather "He cultivated His people to overcome it." "Cultivation is recognizing the time that we're in and understanding the impact of the weather system on our community," she explained.
According to her, from the 20th century onwards, people got to mass-produce. "Machine-like agriculture has been the same thing in the Church," she claimed. She criticized the 'mechanized mass production' approach to religion. "The Church fights the seasons so that we can just mass-produce so that we can consume, consume, consume, and within agriculture that's destroyed soil, it's yielded fruit that isn't so tasty," she said. "Resist the impetus to insist on a perpetual summer or constant harvest if we're going to agree that God is good," she encouraged. "Let the gardener do His will," she added. She believed that people must loosen up and let the Holy Spirit do His work. She then cited the bible on John 3:5-8 saying "Jesus answered, "Truly, truly, I say to you, unless one is born of water and the Spirit, he cannot enter the kingdom of God..." -Cyrel Tajanlangit ; Christianity Daily 3.21.22
May 26, 2021: Christianity Today: Can you separate Ravi Zacharias International Ministries from Ravi Zacharias?
Meanwhile, we’ve heard no acknowledgment of the courageous whistleblowers—RZIM team members such as Ruth Malhotra, Sam Allberry, Amy Orr-Ewing, Daniel Gilman, Nancy Gifford, Max Baker-Hytch, Rio Summers, and others—who repeatedly raised questions to the leadership and attempted to speak up on behalf of victims. Instead of being celebrated for telling the truth, they were shut down or sidelined, accused of a greater sin: being disloyal.
Meanwhile, we’ve heard no acknowledgment of the courageous whistleblowers—RZIM team members such as Ruth Malhotra, Sam Allberry, Amy Orr-Ewing, Daniel Gilman, Nancy Gifford, Max Baker-Hytch, Rio Summers, and others—who repeatedly raised questions to the leadership and attempted to speak up on behalf of victims. Instead of being celebrated for telling the truth, they were shut down or sidelined, accused of a greater sin: being disloyal.
Nov 6, 2020: Otago Daily Times: Freedom is part of God’s creation — it can, and does, go awry
Nonetheless, it is quintessentially human to try to make sense of what is going on. The "why suffering?" question is challenging for everybody’s worldview to address. In her recent book Where is God in all the Suffering?, Dr Amy Orr-Ewing contrasts how worldviews governed by karma, fatalism, and naturalism differently answer this question, before showing the unique response offered by Christian faith
Nonetheless, it is quintessentially human to try to make sense of what is going on. The "why suffering?" question is challenging for everybody’s worldview to address. In her recent book Where is God in all the Suffering?, Dr Amy Orr-Ewing contrasts how worldviews governed by karma, fatalism, and naturalism differently answer this question, before showing the unique response offered by Christian faith
| --Amy Orr-Ewing ; Christianity Today for July 2016 |
| Amy Orr-Ewing is Director of Programmes for the Oxford Centre for Christian Apologetics (OCCA) and European Director for RZIM Zacharias Trust. She gained a first class degree in Theology at Christ Church, Oxford University, before receiving a Master’s in Theology from King’s College London. Amy has written two books exploring key questions in apologetics: Why Trust the Bible? (published under the title Is the Bible Intolerant? in North America) which was shortlisted for the 2006 UK Christian Book Awards, and But Is It Real? (USA title: Is Believing in God Irrational). Her most recent publication is Millennials, which she co-authored with her husband Frog . They have also published Holy Warriors: A Fresh Look at the Face of Extreme Islam and Deep. She has contributed to the books Beyond Opinion, God and the Generations and Worth Knowing: Wisdom for Women. Amy speaks and lectures on Christian Apologetics worldwide, at events such as Keswick Convention, and the European Leadership Forum, Hungary. She was recently invited to speak both at the White House and to staffers on Capitol Hill in Washington, D.C. Amy and her husband Frog have recently planted a new church in Buckinghamshire called Latimer Minster. |
Gregg Farrington
David Felton
May 18, 2015: Christianity Today: Theology Feud Pits Half of Town's Protestant Churches Against Another
At issue: the topic of “Progressive Christianity,” taught at The Fountains, a United Methodist church. That church’s pastor, David Felten, is known for supporting LGBT rights and progressive theology.
At issue: the topic of “Progressive Christianity,” taught at The Fountains, a United Methodist church. That church’s pastor, David Felten, is known for supporting LGBT rights and progressive theology.
May 18, 2015: Christianity Today: Theology Feud Pits Half of Town's Protestant Churches Against Another
At issue: the topic of “Progressive Christianity,” taught at The Fountains, a United Methodist church. That church’s pastor, David Felten, is known for supporting LGBT rights and progressive theology.
At issue: the topic of “Progressive Christianity,” taught at The Fountains, a United Methodist church. That church’s pastor, David Felten, is known for supporting LGBT rights and progressive theology.
| A native of Phoenix, David received a music education degree from Arizona State University before attending Boston University School of Theology where he earned his MDiv in Biblical Studies and History. Before completing Chaplaincy training at Good Samaritan Regional Medical Center, David spent a year studying as a Rotary Graduate Scholar at Perth Theological Hall of Murdoch University in Perth, Western Australia. There he received an Honours degree and a taste for Promite. |
- sean feucht -
Joshua Feuerstein
bryaN FISCHER
Apr 5, 2015: Daily Beast: The Polite Right’s Bryan Fischer Problem
Indeed, many of those who supported Indiana’s original law recognized this—that denying service to gay couples is an impediment to their gaining full civil rights. The American Family Association’s Bryan Fischer, for one. Fischer is a nationally-syndicated radio host, not simply a lone fruitcake, even though the next exit down from his particular brand of crazy is the Westboro Baptist Church: His Twitter feed is full of references to “the Church of the Rainbow Jihad,” “same-sex cakes,” the “Gay Gestapo,” and several warnings that “Big Gay is not about ‘marriage equality’ but ‘homosexual supremacy.’”
Indeed, many of those who supported Indiana’s original law recognized this—that denying service to gay couples is an impediment to their gaining full civil rights. The American Family Association’s Bryan Fischer, for one. Fischer is a nationally-syndicated radio host, not simply a lone fruitcake, even though the next exit down from his particular brand of crazy is the Westboro Baptist Church: His Twitter feed is full of references to “the Church of the Rainbow Jihad,” “same-sex cakes,” the “Gay Gestapo,” and several warnings that “Big Gay is not about ‘marriage equality’ but ‘homosexual supremacy.’”
Feb 12, 2015: Right Wing Watch: Bryan Fischer: 'Gay Gestapo' Forcing Alabama Judges Into 'Slavery' -
Bryan Fischer is outraged that a federal judge may order the dozens of Alabama probate who are refusing to grant marriage licenses to same-sex couples to back down. On his American Family Radio Program today, Fischer said that such an order would be tantamount to “tyranny” and “slavery” enforced by the “gay gestapo.”
Bryan Fischer is outraged that a federal judge may order the dozens of Alabama probate who are refusing to grant marriage licenses to same-sex couples to back down. On his American Family Radio Program today, Fischer said that such an order would be tantamount to “tyranny” and “slavery” enforced by the “gay gestapo.”
Jan 29, 2015: Huffington Post: American Family Association's Bryan Fischer Reportedly Fired Ahead Of GOP Israel Trip
Bryan Fischer, who has made headlines for his right-wing stance on the LGBT community and minority faiths, has reportedly been ousted from his position as the Director of Issues Analysis at the American Family Association (AFA).
Bryan Fischer, who has made headlines for his right-wing stance on the LGBT community and minority faiths, has reportedly been ousted from his position as the Director of Issues Analysis at the American Family Association (AFA).
| Bryan Fischer is the former Director of Issues Analysis for the American Family Association (AFA). He hosts the talk radio program Focal Point on American Family Radio and posts on the AFA-run blog Instant Analysis (formerly Rightly Concerned). Fischer opposes abortion, national health care, gay adoption, and same-sex marriage. Fischer's comments about homosexuality caused the AFA to be designated a hate group by the Southern Poverty Law Center (SPLC) in November 2010. To avoid being classified as a hate group, the AFA has officially repudiated Fischer's views on Muslims, Native Americans, Hispanics, African Americans, The Holocaust being caused by homosexuals, the outlawing of homosexuality and that LGBT parenting is slavery, and that Hillary Clinton is a lesbian. |
greg forster
pope francis
“No one must say that they cannot be close to the poor because their own lifestyle demands more attention to other areas. This is an excuse commonly heard in academic, business or professional, and even ecclesial circles. None of us can think we are exempt from concern for the poor and for social justice" -Pope Francis
timothy furnish
steve furtick
