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Anthony George
cary gordon
bill gothard
Jan 10, 2022: Religion Unplugged: Financial Uncertainty At Bill Gothard’s Institute In Basic Life Principles
In the 1970s and ‘80s, Bill Gothard’s Institute in Basic Life Principles’ week-long seminars filled arenas. Millions of evangelicals attended the programs, and many Christian leaders today say the events were life-changing, resulting a first-time commitments to Christ or decisions to enter the ministry.
In the 1970s and ‘80s, Bill Gothard’s Institute in Basic Life Principles’ week-long seminars filled arenas. Millions of evangelicals attended the programs, and many Christian leaders today say the events were life-changing, resulting a first-time commitments to Christ or decisions to enter the ministry.
Jan 8, 2022: The List: This New Amazon Documentary Could Be The LuLaRich Of The Duggar Family
A 2016 exposé of the organization in Chicago Magazine revealed that the IBLP and its founder, Bill Gothard, have been sued for sexual harassment and inappropriate sexual conduct (Gothard has since left the IBLP). A former IBLP member who spoke to the New York Post claims that sexual abuse is common in the IBLP, enabled by the organization's teachings on obedience to men and its blame-the-victim approach.
A 2016 exposé of the organization in Chicago Magazine revealed that the IBLP and its founder, Bill Gothard, have been sued for sexual harassment and inappropriate sexual conduct (Gothard has since left the IBLP). A former IBLP member who spoke to the New York Post claims that sexual abuse is common in the IBLP, enabled by the organization's teachings on obedience to men and its blame-the-victim approach.
May 28, 2021: Scary Mommy: True Crime: Here Is Josh Duggar’s Long Timeline Of Depravity
The Institute has been investigated by local Child Protective Services investigation on allegations of maltreatment, and in 2014, founder Bill Gothard resigned from his position at the institute after being accused of sexually harassing or assaulting 34 women. Gothard also ran the Advanced Training Institute, a homeschooling program based on Bible teachings and from which many “ex-vangelicals” come. ATI provides detailed guidance on how to manage “sexual indiscretions” among family members, including specifically what to do in the event “an older brother was guilty of sexually abusing younger ones in his family.” The guidelines also encourage adherents to handle such matters discreetly, warning against “the damage to the younger children, the ridicule to the cause of Christ, the shame of detailed publicity, and the scars to the life and reputation of the boy."
The Institute has been investigated by local Child Protective Services investigation on allegations of maltreatment, and in 2014, founder Bill Gothard resigned from his position at the institute after being accused of sexually harassing or assaulting 34 women. Gothard also ran the Advanced Training Institute, a homeschooling program based on Bible teachings and from which many “ex-vangelicals” come. ATI provides detailed guidance on how to manage “sexual indiscretions” among family members, including specifically what to do in the event “an older brother was guilty of sexually abusing younger ones in his family.” The guidelines also encourage adherents to handle such matters discreetly, warning against “the damage to the younger children, the ridicule to the cause of Christ, the shame of detailed publicity, and the scars to the life and reputation of the boy."
The scale and impact of these communities has unfolded just in the past few months, as some of the biggest names in Christian fundamentalism found themselves in the crosshairs. In March, Illinois-based fundamentalist Bill Gothard resigned after a website published a slew of stories from women alleging sexual harassment. In February, a filmmaker released a 90-minute, Kickstarter-funded documentary alleging hidden sexual abuse in the Jesus People USA Evangelical Covenant Church, a Christian community in Chicago. In January, Bob Jones University terminated its contract with a consulting firm it had hired to investigate the college’s handling of sexual assault, and then reinstated the contract after an internet outcry. Another fundamentalist patriarch, Doug Phillips, recently resigned after admitting to an affair with a younger woman—with every micro-development, including Facebook status updates of former staff, reported by blogs. Sovereign Grace Ministries, a large association of evangelical churches, is facing not just a class action lawsuit but a phalanx of sites publishing documents, transcripts of its counseling trainings, and testimonies from people who say church leaders ignored abuse. -Alisa Harris; Daily Beast 4.14.17
Mar 28, 2015: Homeschoolers Anonymous: Man Shares Personal Testimony of How Bill Gothard Used Bible Verses Which Led to the Abuse of Children
Last month, “Dash” commented on an older SSB article, Bill Gothard’s New Program/Ministry: Total Success Power Teams. He used some strong words to describe his experience:
Last month, “Dash” commented on an older SSB article, Bill Gothard’s New Program/Ministry: Total Success Power Teams. He used some strong words to describe his experience:
Jan 16, 2015: Radar Online: Inside The Duggar ‘Cult': Former Followers Of ‘Destructive’ Religious Teachings Express Fears For The Family
Jim Bob and Michelle Duggar began homeschooling their brood in the 1990s using the Bible-based curriculum of the IBLP’s Advanced Training Institute, which was founded by disgraced leader Bill Gothard. He resigned from the organization last year amid allegations of sexually harassing women at his ministry and failing to report child abuse cases.
Jim Bob and Michelle Duggar began homeschooling their brood in the 1990s using the Bible-based curriculum of the IBLP’s Advanced Training Institute, which was founded by disgraced leader Bill Gothard. He resigned from the organization last year amid allegations of sexually harassing women at his ministry and failing to report child abuse cases.
Dec 22, 2014: Roger Olson: Comparing the Young, Restless, Reformed Movement (YRRM) with the Bill Gothard Phenomenon of the 1970s and 1980s
Several times here and elsewhere (mostly in responses to comments and questions) I have compared the rise and influence of the Young, Restless, Reformed Movement largely inspired by John Piper with the Bill Gothard movement of the 1970s and 1980s. I would like to explain and qualify that comparison here.
Several times here and elsewhere (mostly in responses to comments and questions) I have compared the rise and influence of the Young, Restless, Reformed Movement largely inspired by John Piper with the Bill Gothard movement of the 1970s and 1980s. I would like to explain and qualify that comparison here.
Aug 29, 2014:Christian Post: Homeschool Advocate Michael Farris Responds to Sex Scandals of Homeschool Leaders Bill Gothard, Doug Phillips
In close to 2,500 words, Farris addressed the teaching of patriarchy, a view among some Christians regarding the role of women in church, families and society, and how that teaching relates more specifically to the recent sex scandals involving Bill Gothard and Doug Phillips.
In close to 2,500 words, Farris addressed the teaching of patriarchy, a view among some Christians regarding the role of women in church, families and society, and how that teaching relates more specifically to the recent sex scandals involving Bill Gothard and Doug Phillips.
May 16, 2014: Pink Flamingo: The Dirty But ‘Godly’ Mind of the Patriarchal ‘Christian’ Male
To begin with, Bill Gothard is a sexual pervert. The definition of such a person is someone “…a person whose sexual behavior is regarded as abnormal and unacceptable. synonyms: deviant, degenerate…”
To begin with, Bill Gothard is a sexual pervert. The definition of such a person is someone “…a person whose sexual behavior is regarded as abnormal and unacceptable. synonyms: deviant, degenerate…”
May 13, 2014: Love Joy Feminism: Gothard’s Sex Rules: Marital Consent? What’s That?
My family never attended one of Bill Gothard’s seminars, and we didn’t use Gothard’s curriculum. We children were, instead, raised on the outskirts of Gothardism.
My family never attended one of Bill Gothard’s seminars, and we didn’t use Gothard’s curriculum. We children were, instead, raised on the outskirts of Gothardism.
Mar 8, 2014: From The Lightouse: Bill Gothard Resigns from Institute in Basic Life Principles Under Allegations of Sexual Abuse (And How to Spot the Signs of a Sexual Predator)
On March 7th, Bill Gothard, the founder and president of the Institute in Basic Life Principles resigned from his position in the organization after allegations from over thirty women were made public that Gothard sexually harassed, and in one case out right sexually abused, these women while they were teens or young women.
On March 7th, Bill Gothard, the founder and president of the Institute in Basic Life Principles resigned from his position in the organization after allegations from over thirty women were made public that Gothard sexually harassed, and in one case out right sexually abused, these women while they were teens or young women.
Feb 28, 2014: Religion Today: Conservative Leader Bill Gothard on Leave Following Abuse Allegations
Bill Gothard, an Illinois-based advocate for home-schooling and conservative dress and who warned against rock music and debt, has been placed on administrative leave after allegations of sexually harassing women who worked at his ministry and failing to report child abuse cases.
Bill Gothard, an Illinois-based advocate for home-schooling and conservative dress and who warned against rock music and debt, has been placed on administrative leave after allegations of sexually harassing women who worked at his ministry and failing to report child abuse cases.
Feb 10, 2014: Wartburg Watch 2014: Recovering Grace Confronts Bill Gothard
It is with a broken heart that we focus once again on Bill Gothard, whose ministry has had a far-reaching impact in Christendom for nearly a half-century.
It is with a broken heart that we focus once again on Bill Gothard, whose ministry has had a far-reaching impact in Christendom for nearly a half-century.
| William W. (Bill) Gothard (born November 2, 1934) is an American Christian minister, speaker, and writer, and the founder of the Institute in Basic Life Principles (IBLP), notable for his conservative teachings. Among the several strong distinctives of his teaching have been encouragement of Bible memorization, large families, homeschooling, aversion to debt, respect for authority, conservative dress, and extended principles related to identity, family, education, healthcare, music, and finances. At the height of his popularity during the 1970s, the Basic Youth Conflicts seminar with Bill Gothard was regularly filling auditoriums throughout the United States and beyond with attendance figures as large as ten thousand and more for a one-week seminar. In this way, he reached many in the evangelical community from the Baby Boomer generation during their teen years and years of young adulthood. Other seminars during this time included an advanced youth conflicts seminar and as well as seminars for pastors, physicians, and legislators. Bill Gothard has credited a large influence to his parents. His mother, Carmen Christina Gothard (née Torres), was of Mexican-American descent. His father, William Gothard, Sr. was a speaker at many seminars during the early years, and held high positions at organizations that included the Gideons, Child Evangelism Fellowship, and Pacific Garden Mission in Chicago.
By 2009 to 2012 though, Gothard's Institute in Basic Life Principles began a steady decline, losing money, assets, and greatly decreasing the number of annual seminars it conducted, while allegations of sexual misconduct became more public. Gothard has resigned from the Institute. |
julie green
Sept 1, 2022: Yahoo: Doug Mastriano says he's not extreme. So why do many say he is?
Mastriano has also appeared several times this year with an Iowa woman named Julie Green who says God has told her that House Speaker Nancy Pelosi “loves to drink the little children’s blood” and that President Biden is “no longer alive” and is being played by an actor.
Mastriano has also appeared several times this year with an Iowa woman named Julie Green who says God has told her that House Speaker Nancy Pelosi “loves to drink the little children’s blood” and that President Biden is “no longer alive” and is being played by an actor.
jonathan greenblatt
Nov 2, 2022: Religion News: Trump’s Twitter return sparks concern among faith groups
Shortly after Elon Musk officially took charge of Twitter last month, Jonathan Greenblatt, head of the Anti-Defamation League, joined a group of civil rights advocates for a meeting with the newly minted social media mogul.
Among advocates’ chief concerns: that Musk, a self-declared “free speech absolutist,” would reactivate previously banned accounts — including that of former President Donald Trump, a figure who rights advocates say both perpetuates and magnifies online hate speech.
Shortly after Elon Musk officially took charge of Twitter last month, Jonathan Greenblatt, head of the Anti-Defamation League, joined a group of civil rights advocates for a meeting with the newly minted social media mogul.
Among advocates’ chief concerns: that Musk, a self-declared “free speech absolutist,” would reactivate previously banned accounts — including that of former President Donald Trump, a figure who rights advocates say both perpetuates and magnifies online hate speech.
- wayne grudem - john hagee -
jack hayford
Elise Hilton
Aug 1, 2014: Illinois Review: August 1: Day Of Prayer For Persecuted Christians
Elise Hilton of Acton Institute writes that August 1 has been deemed to be a World Day of Prayer for Persecuted Christians in Iraq, Syria and the Middle East.
Elise Hilton of Acton Institute writes that August 1 has been deemed to be a World Day of Prayer for Persecuted Christians in Iraq, Syria and the Middle East.
- Benny Hinn -
Michael Horton
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- Brian Houston -
bill hybells
Jan 10, 2022: The Addict Pastor: Deconstructing Discipleship
Bill Hybels founded Willow Creek church in the late 80’s and is famously known for coining the phrase ‘the local church is the hope of the world.’ This mindset has manifested itself within churches across America and has brought about significant tension. Stunted growth in learners. Mass exodus from the very church that we think will be the hope of the world. And yet, the church continues to replicate the thing that has caused powerful damage. Discipleship.
Bill Hybels founded Willow Creek church in the late 80’s and is famously known for coining the phrase ‘the local church is the hope of the world.’ This mindset has manifested itself within churches across America and has brought about significant tension. Stunted growth in learners. Mass exodus from the very church that we think will be the hope of the world. And yet, the church continues to replicate the thing that has caused powerful damage. Discipleship.
chip ingram
Oct 17, 2022: Christian Post: Apologist Chip Ingram lists 5 relationships key to Christian discipleship
Speaking at the Southern Evangelical Seminary’s 26th annual National Conference on Christian Apologetics in Charlotte, North Carolina, over the weekend, Ingram explained that Romans 12 lays out five relationships that are integral to Christian discipleship: a relationship with God, a relationship with the world, a relationship with oneself, a relationship with believers, and a relationship with nonbelievers.
Speaking at the Southern Evangelical Seminary’s 26th annual National Conference on Christian Apologetics in Charlotte, North Carolina, over the weekend, Ingram explained that Romans 12 lays out five relationships that are integral to Christian discipleship: a relationship with God, a relationship with the world, a relationship with oneself, a relationship with believers, and a relationship with nonbelievers.
Wayne t jackson
For the first time in nearly two years, the Unadilla House sits empty, no longer home to a rotating cast of residents who have long been the subject of local controversy.
Unadilla Mayor Jack Insinga credited “dedicated community members” with the ouster of the occupants.
In the ensuing six years, the house has been twice owned by CitiMortgage, once by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, and most recently by Great Faith Ministries International, a Detroit-based megachurch led by Wayne T. Jackson, an outspoken supporter of former President Donald Trump and cofounder of the Impact Network, which bills itself as the “fastest-growing and largest Black-owned faith-based TV network.” -Sarah Earnes; Daily Star 8.23.21
Unadilla Mayor Jack Insinga credited “dedicated community members” with the ouster of the occupants.
In the ensuing six years, the house has been twice owned by CitiMortgage, once by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, and most recently by Great Faith Ministries International, a Detroit-based megachurch led by Wayne T. Jackson, an outspoken supporter of former President Donald Trump and cofounder of the Impact Network, which bills itself as the “fastest-growing and largest Black-owned faith-based TV network.” -Sarah Earnes; Daily Star 8.23.21
- Cindy jacobs - TD Jakes - David Jeremiah -
carolyn custus james
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Robert Jeffress
Christian Headlines: Republicans Are 'Headed Toward a Civil War,' Pastor Robert Jeffress Says
A key evangelical ally during Donald Trump's administration says he will not endorse the former president for the 2024 Republican nomination............. But Jeffress says he will remain neutral for the 2024 GOP race.
"Donald Trump was a great president, and if he becomes the GOP nominee in 2024, I will happily support him," Jeffress told Newsweek.
He added that "the Republican Party is headed toward a civil war that I have no desire or need to be part of. My priority is being pastor of First Baptist Church Dallas and preaching God's word to millions of people each week on our television and radio broadcasts."
11.18.22
A key evangelical ally during Donald Trump's administration says he will not endorse the former president for the 2024 Republican nomination............. But Jeffress says he will remain neutral for the 2024 GOP race.
"Donald Trump was a great president, and if he becomes the GOP nominee in 2024, I will happily support him," Jeffress told Newsweek.
He added that "the Republican Party is headed toward a civil war that I have no desire or need to be part of. My priority is being pastor of First Baptist Church Dallas and preaching God's word to millions of people each week on our television and radio broadcasts."
11.18.22
Skye Jethani
Instead of becoming an outreach, it becomes an inreach."The “church” is the community of God’s redeemed and empowered people. The church institution and its leaders exists to equip God’s people. God’s people do not exist to equip the institution. Ministry is not what we do within the church institution, but what we do to manifest the reign of Christ in the world". --Skye Jethani
Mark jobe
June 17, 2020: Christianity Today: Moody Apologizes Over Historical Blackface Photos
Regardless of when these photos were taken, or what the intent of the students was at that time, these pictures are shocking and deeply offensive. As senior leadership of Moody Bible Institute, we come together in this letter to deeply apologize for these photos and the underlying ignorance and the racist foundation blackface represents,” wrote Moody president Mark Jobe, addressing the 1974 and 1984 yearbook photos.
Regardless of when these photos were taken, or what the intent of the students was at that time, these pictures are shocking and deeply offensive. As senior leadership of Moody Bible Institute, we come together in this letter to deeply apologize for these photos and the underlying ignorance and the racist foundation blackface represents,” wrote Moody president Mark Jobe, addressing the 1974 and 1984 yearbook photos.
In early 2013, it was announced that Shady Grove Church in Grand Prairie, Texas, would become a campus of Gateway. The transition started in March 2013. The Grand Prairie location seats around 1,500. The campus is off of 161 (The President George Bush Turnpike) and Carrier Parkway. Pastor Mark Jobe served as the Campus Pastor. In 2015, the Grand Prairie campus averaged 1,784 people per weekend.
Mark Jobe; Executive Pastor Gateway Church Gran Prairie Campus
Saved: Born again during my sophomore year in high school. I surrendered to the ministry my junior year and began traveling and speaking in churches my senior year.
Education: Attended Liberty Bible College and Criswell Center for biblical studies from 1979 through 1983.
Previous Lines of Work: Been in full time ministry for over 30 years
One of the Things I Find Most Fascinating: The power of God to change even the most impossible situations. I have watched God take lives and marriages that were over and turn them completely around. On a lighter note, I am amazed how a thermos can keep cold things cold and hot things hot! Have you ever wondered how it knows the difference?
Mark Jobe; Executive Pastor Gateway Church Gran Prairie Campus
Saved: Born again during my sophomore year in high school. I surrendered to the ministry my junior year and began traveling and speaking in churches my senior year.
Education: Attended Liberty Bible College and Criswell Center for biblical studies from 1979 through 1983.
Previous Lines of Work: Been in full time ministry for over 30 years
One of the Things I Find Most Fascinating: The power of God to change even the most impossible situations. I have watched God take lives and marriages that were over and turn them completely around. On a lighter note, I am amazed how a thermos can keep cold things cold and hot things hot! Have you ever wondered how it knows the difference?
Bill & Beni johnson
Feb 14, 2022: Christian Headlines: Bethel Church Launches 24/7 Prayer Campaign for Beni Johnson amid Cancer Battle
Bethel Church recently launched a 24/7 prayer campaign for Beni Johnson, the wife of senior pastor Bill Johnson, who is battling cancer.
Bethel Church recently launched a 24/7 prayer campaign for Beni Johnson, the wife of senior pastor Bill Johnson, who is battling cancer.
Bill and Beni Johnson, two of the church's most senior leaders, have been accused of heretical conduct for what they believe in and teach. Bill, for example, included the Biblical truth in his book, "Jesus Christ is Perfect Theology," that God always intends to heal someone.
Beni, on the other hand, had been criticized for her focus on angelology Previously, she was claimed to have said in a blog post that is no longer available, that there are "different kinds of angels" who had "fallen asleep." And when she posted images of herself on the graves of well-known Christians such as C.S. Lewis, she was accused of "grave soaking" which was eventually called "grave-sucking."
Lloyd wrote: "Many wild suggestions have been made of the activity within these walls of 'wacky cheer'. It should be made clear that, initially, I, too, was the one who stepped over students laughing on the floor, inwardly judging their reactions to the presence of God. My secret conversations with the Lord however, would always confront my judgement for another's enthusiasm. Just as I was once encouraged by great art directors in London to let creatives take a risk, so too did I need to ensure I made space to allow their zealous spirit to encounter God, however that may look." -Sarah Mae Saliong; Christianity Daily 11.26.21
Beni, on the other hand, had been criticized for her focus on angelology Previously, she was claimed to have said in a blog post that is no longer available, that there are "different kinds of angels" who had "fallen asleep." And when she posted images of herself on the graves of well-known Christians such as C.S. Lewis, she was accused of "grave soaking" which was eventually called "grave-sucking."
Lloyd wrote: "Many wild suggestions have been made of the activity within these walls of 'wacky cheer'. It should be made clear that, initially, I, too, was the one who stepped over students laughing on the floor, inwardly judging their reactions to the presence of God. My secret conversations with the Lord however, would always confront my judgement for another's enthusiasm. Just as I was once encouraged by great art directors in London to let creatives take a risk, so too did I need to ensure I made space to allow their zealous spirit to encounter God, however that may look." -Sarah Mae Saliong; Christianity Daily 11.26.21
gary d johnson
Stephen Joiner
Mar 31, 2015: Christian Examiner: Pro-life pastor awarded damages for unlawful arrest at Mississippi protest
Columbus Police Department Capt. Frederick Shelton arrested Stephen Joiner, citing the city's parade ordinance requiring "groups" of even one individual to obtain a parade permit prior to engaging in speech on a public sidewalk.
Columbus Police Department Capt. Frederick Shelton arrested Stephen Joiner, citing the city's parade ordinance requiring "groups" of even one individual to obtain a parade permit prior to engaging in speech on a public sidewalk.
Kapya Kaoma
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Sept 8, 2021: The Leaflet: Why India must criminalize gay conversion therapy
THE Supreme Court, in 2018, through its judgment in the case of Navtej Singh Johar and Ors. vs. Union of India decriminalized consensual sex among all adults, including those within the LGBTQIA+ community. The Court struck down a part of the colonial-era provision of Section 377 of the Indian Penal Code, which had criminalized ‘unnatural sex’—reversing its 2013 decision in Suresh Kumar Koushal vs. Naz Foundation. This was hailed as a landmark decision in the fight for equal rights by the LGBTQIA+ community in India. Apr 8, 2015: Kapya Kaoma: Political Research Associates: Christian Right Culture Warriors Don’t Understand the Word “Family” |
Rev. Dr. Kapya Kaoma is PRA's Senior Religion and Sexuality Researcher. He was the original researcher to expose the ties between U.S. right-wing evangelicals and the anti-LGBTQ legislation in Uganda, and has testified before Congress and the United Nations. He is the author of "Globalizing the Culture Wars" and "Colonizing African Values," and appears as an expert voice in the 2013 documentary God Loves Uganda. He received his doctorate in Ethics from Boston University. |
Dec 3, 2014: Kapya Kaoma: Political Research Associates: Top Uganda Politician: Western Gays Adopting Children to Turn Them Gay
Sept 17, 2014: Episcopal Cafe: 30 African Theologians & Scholars Back LGBT Equality
The event was organised by Adee, who is also an elder in the US Presbyterian Church, and Kapya Kaoma, a Zambian Anglican priest, from Political Research Associates.
Aug 28, 2014: Christian Century: Standing with LGBT people around the world
Today, 30 LGBT-affirming African religion scholars and faith leaders begin meeting in South Africa. The purpose of the consultation is to build an African faith foundation for the acceptance of LGBT people. It was organized by Kapya Kaoma of Political Research Associates and Michael Adee of the Horizons Foundation’s Global Faith and Justice Project. Kaoma is an Anglican priest from Zambia; Adee is an elder in the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.).
Sept 17, 2014: Episcopal Cafe: 30 African Theologians & Scholars Back LGBT Equality
The event was organised by Adee, who is also an elder in the US Presbyterian Church, and Kapya Kaoma, a Zambian Anglican priest, from Political Research Associates.
Aug 28, 2014: Christian Century: Standing with LGBT people around the world
Today, 30 LGBT-affirming African religion scholars and faith leaders begin meeting in South Africa. The purpose of the consultation is to build an African faith foundation for the acceptance of LGBT people. It was organized by Kapya Kaoma of Political Research Associates and Michael Adee of the Horizons Foundation’s Global Faith and Justice Project. Kaoma is an Anglican priest from Zambia; Adee is an elder in the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.).
Mar 31, 2014: Political Research Associates: ITN News’ Channel 4 and PRA’s Kapya Kaoma Take Down Scott Lively
PRA’s senior researcher Kapya Kaoma joined ITN News’ Channel 4 (England) in a spotlight feature about Scott Lively’s involvement in the creation of Uganda’s Anti-Homosexuality Bill. The piece includes PRA’s exclusive video of Lively’s presentation at a Uganda anti-gay conference in 2009.
PRA’s senior researcher Kapya Kaoma joined ITN News’ Channel 4 (England) in a spotlight feature about Scott Lively’s involvement in the creation of Uganda’s Anti-Homosexuality Bill. The piece includes PRA’s exclusive video of Lively’s presentation at a Uganda anti-gay conference in 2009.
Tim Keller
Apr 7, 2022: Chorus in the Chaos: Sorry Tim Keller, People Reject Christ Because They Reject the Bible
Tim Keller recently tweeted, “Jesus’s teaching consistently attracted the irreligious while offending Bible-believing religious people of His day. However-our churches do not have this same effect which can only mean one thing. Our preaching and practices are not declaring the same message that Jesus did.”
Tim Keller recently tweeted, “Jesus’s teaching consistently attracted the irreligious while offending Bible-believing religious people of His day. However-our churches do not have this same effect which can only mean one thing. Our preaching and practices are not declaring the same message that Jesus did.”
A Facebook post by Pastor Timothy Keller on Apr 7 explains the problems with mega churches:
Thread on why we multiplied Redeemer into three (now five) congregations, rather than give the megachurch to a single successor?
First, because megachurches have some design deficits. In general, they are poor places for formation and pastoral care due to their size. In our current cultural moment that is a deadly problem because Christians are being more formed by social media than local Christian community. We need thick communities and the size of our churches factor into that.
2nd, because megachurches are grown large under a founder, they are not usually sustained by being given to one successor. That person is always excessively and sometimes harshly compared in every way to the founder. It’s lose-lose for them and the movement.
3rd-because megachurches—tend to grow fast under a founder, they usually depend too much on the gifts and personality of that founder so the sooner that addictive dependence is broken, the better.
4th, because often the founder comes to see the church as their personal possession-and an extension of their personality and self-image, they often never want to leave, nor do they know how to well. It is good to leave sooner rather than later as a spiritual discipline.
5th, because I was able to hand off Redeemer to a more diverse group of leaders-instead of one white American, Redeemer has now been led by Sr Pastors who were Chinese, Korean, British, and Nagamese/Lebanese. All, though solidly united on Reformed theology, bring their distinct-enriching cultural perspectives, experiences, and wisdom.
6th, because smaller congregations must make use of a greater percentage of lay persons’ gifts & talents there is less dependence on staff and a smaller number of onlookers who only attend to observe and not participate.
7th, we didn't just want to build one megachurch, our core vision was centered on “to help build a great city for all people through a movement of the gospel.” Gospel movements are fueled by the multiplication of generative churches, and diverse leaders.
8th, megachurches tend to draw people from great distances who then are not geographically close enough to take part in community building, discipleship, and local ministry to the neighborhood of the church. It is harder for them to be other-focused in the local area. Cities and regions can benefit from the unique resources of a megachurch (eg counseling centers, seminaries). But in general, the area—and the Christians—will benefit more from 10 churches of 400 scattered throughout the city, rather than one church of 4,000 in the middle of it.
That was our thought process. Now, while still having the resources of a megachurch, through their size and model, they can be more nimble to the needs of those who attend and the surrounding area.
Thread on why we multiplied Redeemer into three (now five) congregations, rather than give the megachurch to a single successor?
First, because megachurches have some design deficits. In general, they are poor places for formation and pastoral care due to their size. In our current cultural moment that is a deadly problem because Christians are being more formed by social media than local Christian community. We need thick communities and the size of our churches factor into that.
2nd, because megachurches are grown large under a founder, they are not usually sustained by being given to one successor. That person is always excessively and sometimes harshly compared in every way to the founder. It’s lose-lose for them and the movement.
3rd-because megachurches—tend to grow fast under a founder, they usually depend too much on the gifts and personality of that founder so the sooner that addictive dependence is broken, the better.
4th, because often the founder comes to see the church as their personal possession-and an extension of their personality and self-image, they often never want to leave, nor do they know how to well. It is good to leave sooner rather than later as a spiritual discipline.
5th, because I was able to hand off Redeemer to a more diverse group of leaders-instead of one white American, Redeemer has now been led by Sr Pastors who were Chinese, Korean, British, and Nagamese/Lebanese. All, though solidly united on Reformed theology, bring their distinct-enriching cultural perspectives, experiences, and wisdom.
6th, because smaller congregations must make use of a greater percentage of lay persons’ gifts & talents there is less dependence on staff and a smaller number of onlookers who only attend to observe and not participate.
7th, we didn't just want to build one megachurch, our core vision was centered on “to help build a great city for all people through a movement of the gospel.” Gospel movements are fueled by the multiplication of generative churches, and diverse leaders.
8th, megachurches tend to draw people from great distances who then are not geographically close enough to take part in community building, discipleship, and local ministry to the neighborhood of the church. It is harder for them to be other-focused in the local area. Cities and regions can benefit from the unique resources of a megachurch (eg counseling centers, seminaries). But in general, the area—and the Christians—will benefit more from 10 churches of 400 scattered throughout the city, rather than one church of 4,000 in the middle of it.
That was our thought process. Now, while still having the resources of a megachurch, through their size and model, they can be more nimble to the needs of those who attend and the surrounding area.
“God was an entrepreneur. He brought something out of nothing. He brought order out of chaos. Why did he do it? He did it not because he had to; he did it because he wanted to. He did it for the joy of doing it.”
-Tim Keller
-Tim Keller
Gordon Klingenschmitt
Nov 7, 2014: Right Wing Watch: Colorado GOPer Gordon Klingenschmitt's 10 Craziest Moments: Homophobia, Exorcisms And More!
Televangelist and Religious Right activist Gordon Klingenschmitt will soon be starting a new job as a Republican member of the Colorado House of Representatives. This is a big promotion for Klingenschmitt, who has until now been laboring away as the host of a TV program called “Pray In Jesus Name,” where he offers his own special brand of unhinged comments on issues ranging from gay rights to Obamacare and the animal kingdom
Televangelist and Religious Right activist Gordon Klingenschmitt will soon be starting a new job as a Republican member of the Colorado House of Representatives. This is a big promotion for Klingenschmitt, who has until now been laboring away as the host of a TV program called “Pray In Jesus Name,” where he offers his own special brand of unhinged comments on issues ranging from gay rights to Obamacare and the animal kingdom
Nov 5, 2014: Right Wing Watch: Meet 'Dr. Chaps' Gordon Klingenschmitt: Colorado's New Anti-Gay, Demon Hunting State Legislator -
Gordon "Dr. Chaps" Klingenschmitt, a radical anti-gay Religious Right activist who brags of having once tried to rid of woman of the "foul spirit of lesbianism" through an exorcism and who openly proclaims that "American law needs to reflect God's law" and that our foreign policy must be based on the Bible, won election to the Colorado House of Representatives last night
Dec 11, 2013: Guns.com: Former Navy Chaplain suggested he would shoot Right Wing Watch readers (VIDEO)
Former Navy Chaplain Gordon “Dr. Chaps” Klingenschmitt expressly told Right Wing Watch readers Tuesday that he just got his concealed carry permit and he’s willing to use it.
Dec 10, 2013: Death and Taxes: Copyright troll Gordon Klingenschmitt threatens Right Wing Watch readers
Gordon Klingenschmitt, a disgraced former Navy chaplain who has parlayed his notoriety into a Colorado Assembly candidacy, told Right Wing Watch (RWW) readers that he has a gun and is not afraid to use it should he feel threatened.
Dec 8, 2013: Electronic Frontier Foundation: Attempt to Silence the Political Speech at Right Wing Watch
Former Navy chaplain and Colorado Assembly candidate Gordon Klingenschmitt launched a campaign to use the DMCA to shut down the YouTube account of People for the American Way's Right Wing Watch (“RWW”) project.
Nov 21, 2013: Christian Post: Right Wing Watch' YouTube Account Again Suspended Due to Fmr. Navy Chaplain's Complaint
Right Wing Watch, a project of the People For the American Way, had its suspension briefly lifted earlier this week only to have it again removed Thursday due to the efforts of Gordon "Dr. Chaps" Klingenschmitt.
Nov 7, 2013: Christian News Wire: David Takes Down Goliath -- Anti-Jesus Group Right Wing Watch Terminated by YouTube After Chaplain Files Copyright Infringement Claims
The anti-Christian group Right Wing Watch (RWW) had their YouTube account terminated today after repeated violations of copyright infringement, theft, and allowing followers to issue death threats against a Christian chaplain.
Aug 16, 2013: Christian News Wire: Murder the Chaplain! Anti-Christian Hate Group Right Wing Watch Followers Issue Death Threats Against 'Dr. Chaps' Klingenschmitt
Six followers of the anti-Christian hate group Right Wing Watch (RWW) have published death threats against a former Navy Chaplain because he spoke out against abortion.
Gordon "Dr. Chaps" Klingenschmitt, a radical anti-gay Religious Right activist who brags of having once tried to rid of woman of the "foul spirit of lesbianism" through an exorcism and who openly proclaims that "American law needs to reflect God's law" and that our foreign policy must be based on the Bible, won election to the Colorado House of Representatives last night
Dec 11, 2013: Guns.com: Former Navy Chaplain suggested he would shoot Right Wing Watch readers (VIDEO)
Former Navy Chaplain Gordon “Dr. Chaps” Klingenschmitt expressly told Right Wing Watch readers Tuesday that he just got his concealed carry permit and he’s willing to use it.
Dec 10, 2013: Death and Taxes: Copyright troll Gordon Klingenschmitt threatens Right Wing Watch readers
Gordon Klingenschmitt, a disgraced former Navy chaplain who has parlayed his notoriety into a Colorado Assembly candidacy, told Right Wing Watch (RWW) readers that he has a gun and is not afraid to use it should he feel threatened.
Dec 8, 2013: Electronic Frontier Foundation: Attempt to Silence the Political Speech at Right Wing Watch
Former Navy chaplain and Colorado Assembly candidate Gordon Klingenschmitt launched a campaign to use the DMCA to shut down the YouTube account of People for the American Way's Right Wing Watch (“RWW”) project.
Nov 21, 2013: Christian Post: Right Wing Watch' YouTube Account Again Suspended Due to Fmr. Navy Chaplain's Complaint
Right Wing Watch, a project of the People For the American Way, had its suspension briefly lifted earlier this week only to have it again removed Thursday due to the efforts of Gordon "Dr. Chaps" Klingenschmitt.
Nov 7, 2013: Christian News Wire: David Takes Down Goliath -- Anti-Jesus Group Right Wing Watch Terminated by YouTube After Chaplain Files Copyright Infringement Claims
The anti-Christian group Right Wing Watch (RWW) had their YouTube account terminated today after repeated violations of copyright infringement, theft, and allowing followers to issue death threats against a Christian chaplain.
Aug 16, 2013: Christian News Wire: Murder the Chaplain! Anti-Christian Hate Group Right Wing Watch Followers Issue Death Threats Against 'Dr. Chaps' Klingenschmitt
Six followers of the anti-Christian hate group Right Wing Watch (RWW) have published death threats against a former Navy Chaplain because he spoke out against abortion.
greg laurie
Hal Lindsey
Nov 23, 2022: Slacktivist: 11/23 Flashback: 93
Hal Lindsey turns 85 years old today, something that Lindsey himself has spent decades telling us should never come to pass.
Lindsey’s 1970 book, The Late Great Planet Earth — a blockbuster best-seller — told us that the End of the World was nigh. And not just maybe a bit nigh-ish, mind you, but really, really nigh.
Hal Lindsey turns 85 years old today, something that Lindsey himself has spent decades telling us should never come to pass.
Lindsey’s 1970 book, The Late Great Planet Earth — a blockbuster best-seller — told us that the End of the World was nigh. And not just maybe a bit nigh-ish, mind you, but really, really nigh.
Damon Linker
RELIGION ON THE RECORD: Apr 25, 2014: Author, Damon Linker, in an article published in "The Week" ann0unces boldly: "What Christians get wrong about hell." The assumption, from the title might very well be that there is some sort of apologetics or unique Christian epistemology approach. However, no it is not. The basic summation of the article is that Linker thinks that the great theologian, Socrates, has the more intelligent way to think about hell. What? Socrates was a theologian? No, he wasn't. And neither is Linker. In an attempt to rationalize away any suggestion that hell is eternal damnation, Linker attempts to break away from any perception of hell that the bible may conjure by a bunch of Christians who think that
"Jumping off from a handful of Gospel passages in which Jesus Christ speaks about "eternal punishment" for sinners in the afterlife, these believers conjure visions of a cosmic torture chamber in which those who reject God or commit grave sins without repentance are subjected to endless torment as punishment for their transgressions. "
READ MORE: Yes, There is an Eternal Hell
"Jumping off from a handful of Gospel passages in which Jesus Christ speaks about "eternal punishment" for sinners in the afterlife, these believers conjure visions of a cosmic torture chamber in which those who reject God or commit grave sins without repentance are subjected to endless torment as punishment for their transgressions. "
READ MORE: Yes, There is an Eternal Hell
Scott lively
Apr 14, 2022: WND: Scott Lively: When and why American exceptionalism died
| Scott Lively is an attorney, pastor, human rights consultant and missionary with service in more than 50 countries. He is the author of eight books including "Redeeming the Rainbow," a textbook on pro-family advocacy and opposition the the LGBT agenda, and his most recent work "The Prodigal Son Prophecy: God's Amazing Plan for the Restoration of the Two Hebrew Houses and the Salvation of the Gentiles." |
max lucado
Feb 9, 2022: Ministry Watch: LGBTQ Community Organize Petition Against Max Lucado Preaching at Washington National Cathedral
More than 1,600 people signed a petition protesting the Washington National Cathedral’s decision to host evangelical megachurch pastor Max Lucado as a guest preacher last weekend (Feb 7), saying the move contradicted the Episcopal Church’s stance supporting LGBTQ inclusion.
More than 1,600 people signed a petition protesting the Washington National Cathedral’s decision to host evangelical megachurch pastor Max Lucado as a guest preacher last weekend (Feb 7), saying the move contradicted the Episcopal Church’s stance supporting LGBTQ inclusion.
Ron Luce
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Apr 1, 2015: Youtube: A.D. The Bible Continues - Ron Luce: Faith Leader Commentary
Ron Luce, President and Founder of Teenmania International, discusses how A.D. brings the Bible to life for a whole new generation. July 31, 2012: Teen Mania Ministries: Christian Post: Teen Mania Celebrates 25 Years of Global Missions Work “The 25th anniversary for Teen Mania, I don’t think it’s a congratulations to us. It’s just another sign that God is insisting that his mission gets accomplished,” Ron Luce, founder and president of Teen Mania, told The Christian Post on Thursday. |
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