A FUNNY ON "THE GOLDEN GIRLS"

It has been a few weeks and I hope that everyone had a great Christmas, and are making plans to attend their Watch night Service to set in motion their devotion and obedience to the LORD for 2008!

I wanted to share a funny that I saw on the TV show "The Golden Girls" a couple of weeks back. Now, you might be saying to yourself, "The Golden Girls, Jarvis? You're posting on your blog a quote from The Golden Girls"? Well, after hearing this interaction, I believe that you will get a chuckle out of what was said.

The situation was set up as such: The oldest character of the four ladies, Sophia (played by Estelle Getty) was choking on something and passed out while another character, Rose (played by Betty White) was applying the Heimlich maneuver on her. Sophia had a "experience" of going to heaven and when she got there, she was initially approached by an angel. This was the interaction between the two:

Sophia: Dorothy (Sophia's daughter)! Where am I?

Angel: Sophia? Welcome to heaven!

Sophia: I'm in heaven?

Angel: That's right!

Sophia: Heaven, Heaven? I went straight to heaven? No stops? No purgatory?

Angel (perplexed by Sophia's statement): Purgatory? Oh ho ho ho you Catholics (laughing)! Look, why don' you make yourself comfortable. I have to prepare for our next arrival, and actually, I'm rather excited! It's a televangelist!!!

Sophia: Why is that exciting?

Angel: We've never had one here before!!

This was cute! Anyhow, Have a Great New year!!!!!

WHEN WILL THE MADNESS STOP??

The other day, while I was doing my morning walk, I was listening to a message by Anthony Carter in which he was stating that the Church has this problem with wanting to be like the world when it comes to faddish things.

Well, on the heels of the VitaminWater, Fiji, and Dasani water crazes, there are companies springing up trying to "Christianize" the water business. For example, a company right here in Florida is now promoting an item called SpiritualWater, which they classify as Holy drinking water that encourages you to "stay focused, believe in yourself and believe in God" (notice what is last on this list!!!). Another company in Chicago is promoting water called Liquid OM, which claims to have "good energy" that can be transferred to the drinker well before they drink the water itself. And finally, there is a company in California promoting Holy Drinking Water--which is blessed in the production warehouse by an Anglican and Roman Catholic priest. The purchase of this water is to remind people to "be kind to others" when you purchase and drink it.

Now, I don't think it takes a person with the IQ of a Neurophysiologist determine my feelings for such resources as these, but I do wonder why (1) Christians feel the need to promote such propaganda?, and (2) the Christianity promoted in these items fall far short of authenticity? For instance, true Christianity would promote that goodness comes from God and God alone (Luke 18:19), and that naturally "there is no one that does good" (Psalm 14:3). In addition, Scripture states that all of man's righteousness is like "filthy rags" (Isaiah 64:6), and that it takes God to work in us (or in Greek, energize us) to both "will and do for His good pleasure" (Phil. 2:13). In short, a bottle of natural water can never make a man holy because natural means can never solve a spiritual problem. There is only one water that can cleanse the heart of men and make them righteous in the sight of God--the fountain of blood that flowed from the LORD Jesus on Calvary's mountain for sin. If one has not drank from this fountain, there is no other water that will make them acceptable in God's eyes.

So while there will be some Christians (and sadly, non-Christians) buying this water thinking that it will give them some burst of power, much like Spinach does Popeye, my faith will be rooted and will rest in the perfect, finished work of the LORD Jesus on my behalf. It is he who is my solid rock, and truly all other ground is sinking sand.

To read the article on this topic, click here

WHEN LOYALTY BACKFIRES

As I was getting ready for church yesterday, I was watching ESPN's Outside the Lines (OTL) broadcast and I saw a segment that dealt with Michael Vick and his dogfighting case. The story stated that one of the major reasons why Vick was involved in this matter is due to his loyalty with those he knew before he became an All-Pro quarterback in the NFL.

OTL focused on the issue of certain athletes not wanting (or being able) to sever unhealthy acquaintances with individuals in their past due to the fact that they would "lose their credibility" in the circles they grew up in. OTL went on to state that Vick's inability to develop new healthy relationships with others in lieu of the ones he had growing up played a major factor in him being unable to mature and make proper decisions which ultimately led to (quite possibly) the end of his NFL career (today he received a 23 month prison sentence).

As I was watching this broadcast, immediately my mind went to the state of the African-American Church and the not often talked about loyalty that exist within it. I often wonder how many of my brothers and sisters are following the likes of TD Jakes, Creflo Dollar, Juanita Bynum, Frederick Price, and other heretics, not due to their theology but because of the color of their skin.

I remember a few years back, I was attending a Presbyterian Church with a white pastor (whom I love with all my heart even to this day) and one of the first questions that I would hear from another black brother or sister--when asking me about the church I attend--would be "Is it a 'white church'"? And when I said "I do have a white pastor", immediately the conversation either stopped, I was looked at funny, or I was given some unneeded advice like "Try to get some 'neck bones' in your Worship". In addition, I also have a friend whose pastor has tried to discourage him from attending KNOX Seminary, stating that it is a "White Pulpit".

It was Martin Luther King who once said, "The most segregated time of week is 11AM on Sundays", and I truly believe this segregation has called many of our African-American brothers and sisters to get into errors and cults that will ultimately cost them their souls. The reality is that most people who attend church feels some sense of comfort in fellowshipping with people of their own race. And sadly, this way of thinking for our people has caused some to embrace the teachings through the teacher! In other words, since Jakes, Dollar, and Bynum has my skin color, their Biblical "interpretations" must be trustworthy and since Luther, Calvin, and Sproul does not, they must be erroneous in their explanation of God's Word.

And unfortunately, much like in the case of Michael Vick, some of our brothers and sisters are unable to break free from the old patterns of thinking and acting, thus negating development in the theology and relationships they need to overcome racism, anger, bitterness, and malice against others. And while I want to state at this point in no way am I expressing this is a "black only" problem (Because I have been on other sides and seen this same issue. Equally, I have heard of cases where blacks were treated terrible in some white congregations), my passion is to see my African-American brothers and sisters become saved and adherers to the Reformed faith. And it grieves me that some try to place some unwarranted "pressure" upon we African-Americans who embrace Reformed theology--calling us Uncle Toms and White people lovers--just because we agree Scripturally with John Piper and reject Edddie Long!!

And it also breaks my heart to see family members and friends become "theologically malnourished" due to the fact that they want to be loyal to those in their race. And, in essence, this loyalty becomes a catalyst for a defeated life, false conversion, and--in some cases--eternal damnation.

We, as a people, need to learn that we are not to follow teachers based on racial circumstances, but rather, by their divine understanding of the Word of God. I personally have been blessed to grow from both black instructors--like St. Augustine, Tertullian, Lemuel Haynes, Anthony Carter, Robert Benson, Ken Jones, Rickey Armstrong, Michael Leach, and Sherrard Burns (to name a few) as well as white instructors--John Calvin, John Knox, John Flavel, John Bunyan, Charles Spurgeon, A.W. Pink, R.C. Sproul, Robert Reymond, and Warren Gage (once again, to name a few). And I follow these people because I agree with their Biblical instruction, not because I feel a sense of "black loyalty" or I get pleasure being some kind of a "sellout".

In conclusion, it is my prayer that this trend will stop among our black culture and we can learn to follow people of God not because of the color of their skin, but by the content of their message. What matters when it comes to instruction in Scripture is whether or not it matches what the Holy Spirit intended when he dictated it through men. And if we use this criteria, we can--as my Pastor always says--be ever careful to give God praise, honor, and glory!

SBC BECOMING MORE CALVINISTIC

I am always encouraged when I hear about the growth of Reformed Theology in many Christian cirlces, no matter what the primary race or region of the church or denomination.

With that said, I was overjoyed to hear that Lifeway Research has recently completed a study in which they report that 34 % of current Southen Baptist Seminarians, who go into ministry or pastoral offices after graduation, are holding to the teachings of Calvinism.

Equally, the survey reports the following statistics as well:

****Souther Baptist Seminary graduates who identify themselves as Calvinist conduct personal evangelism at a slightly higher rate than their peers who are not Calvinist.

****That although these Calvinist baptized fewer people each year, their number of baptisms are virtually identical each year with non-Calvinist churches.

Ed Stetzer, director of LifeWay Research, states that if the numbers increase in this way, Calvinism will continue to be a major influence in the denomination.

This is an encouraging number to see within the SBC, and it is my prayer that the number of African-Americans will rise--who are in the SBC, PCA, and other Reformed-based Seminaries--so that we can witness similar effects in regards to Reformed teaching and the Black Church.

To read the article, click here

CROSS TV IS GOOD TV

I have been blessed to be a Reformed Christian for close to 7 years now, and I have had a lot of resources that has aided my growth in the faith. But, without question, the resource that has blessed me the most is Word Pictures that is produced by Cross TV, a Reformed Christian production company located in Boca Raton, FL. Their mission is to tackle "the most vital, life-changing, soul-shaking biblical subjects in a compelling video format". Equally, their goal is to produce a series on every doctrine within Holy Scripture. At this present time, they have produced over 40 series ranging from a dramatization of "Sinners in the Hands of an Angry God" to "A Workman Approved by God" ( a series that deals with proper Biblical exegesis and interpretation). In my jail ministry on Saturday Mornings, I usually work thorough a series with the guys, and they have been expressly blessed by the content in the videos. The guys find it challenging, yet straight forward in its delivery.

And in a time where channels like TBN and The Word Network do so much to hurt Christianity, it is refreshing to know that God has provided a means to get His true message across to the masses.

So, if you wanted to know how to harmonize God's Sovereignty with Man's responsibility, how to defend the Deity of Jesus Christ, or know how to avoid the error of "Collapsing Contexts" in your Bible interpretation, then check out Word Pictures from Cross TV! You'll be blessed that you did!!!!

To find out more about Cross TV, you can check out the following sources:

Tune in to the TCT Channel (DirecTV channel 377) @ 7:30 AM Monday-Friday

Go to their web site at http://www.crosstv.com/, and check out their inventory of programs that you can order.

Click here to hear Word Pictures founder and host Mark Kielar give a teaching on the problem with the "Prosperity Gospel" from the series "The Good Steward".

SOLUTIONS OR SALVATION?

Being a die hard football fan, I was saddened to hear about the murder of Washington Redskins safety Sean Taylor. Just listening to the media reports about how his house was broken into 8 days ago, and how someone left a knife on his pillow is as sickening to know that before he was shot, his phone and alarm lines were cut delaying any chance he had to call for help after he was wounded.

In light of this, I just read an article by Jason Whitlock, of FOXsports.com, in which he claims that Taylor's death is related to the actions of what he calls the "Black KKK". Whitlock states that a need for Taylor to keep his negative past associations, as well as the rising growth of black on black crime was the catalyst for his death. Equally, Whitlock states that blacks should be ashamed in attacking white media outlets that has focused on Taylor's prior run-ins with the law during this time, and start focusing on the often overlooked problems that cause blacks to kill each other.

If you know of Jason Whitlock, you know he is not shy about voicing his opinions. And while he does make some very disturbing comments, it is the comment he doesn't make that is the most disturbing: namely, that sin is at the root of this issue. Unfortunately, our society focuses more on external solutions to conquer internal problems. Like it or not, racial unity events, forums, and "Million Man marches" have no power in solving spiritual issues--only being born again through the LORD Jesus will do this. The lack of a regenerated heart and reverence for God's law is the basis of any sin (see WSC Question # 14). And if there truly will be a change one day, we must realize that a person must change from the inside by God's grace and not outwardly in his own power.

So, in conclusion, it is not ultimately the rap music, drugs, and past associations that was the ultimate undoing of Sean Taylor. But rather, it was the fact that man's heart is in the clutches of sin and needs to be rescued by the LORD Jesus' life, death, and ressurection. Unless this occurs, all the opinions and suggestions that are being offered in how to overcome this tragedy are obsolete.


To read Jason Whitlock's article, click here

MIAMI PASTOR'S CONFERENCE BLOG IS UP!!!

I hope everyone had a real good Thanksgiving holiday, and I pray that the LORD was uplifted as we reflected on some of the many things He is doing in our lives.

I promised in an earlier post that I would be giving detailed comments about every session that happened at the Miami Pastor's Conference this past November 8-10. Well, I am proud to say that I have created a new blog that will cover just this subject. So, if you couldn't attend and wanted to know about this Conference or did attend and wanted to give your input on what blessed you, please click on the link below and enjoy!!!!

http://miamipastors.blogspot.com/

CHARISMATIC SCANDAL

There is a serious sex scandal brewing in Atlanta concerning "Archbishop" Earl Paulk, founder of Chapel Hill Harvester Church, a large Charismatic megachurch in the area. Apparently, Paulk has been exposed in sleeping with his brother's wife 34 years ago and fathering a child with her. Until a recent DNA test, this child, whose name is D.E. Paulk, was always known as Earl Paulk's nephew. D.E. is now the Senior Pastor of the Church. Apparently, this is not the first time a sex scandal has hit this church. Paulk (as well as his brother Don) has been accused of having sex and/or molesting at least four other women over the past 25 years. A couple of these cases were never filed or were settled out of court.

The actions of the "Archbishop" and the longevity of his discretions makes me wonder how a man like this could be in the pulpit so long. While all these incidents were taking place, he was preaching to a congregation that went as high as 10,000 on any given Sunday. We, as believers need to take heed to the accountability of our pastors and make sure that they are truly "watching their lives and doctrine closely" (1 Tim. 4:16). We should not blindly follow a teacher who seems to speak for God, nor should we tolerate constant discretions without consequences. It is my prayer that Paulk will repent of his transgressions, but it is more of my prayer that God will not allow Paulk to guide His people while living in deliberate sin.

If you would like to read the article on this scandal, click here

Also, here is a Wikipedia bio on Paulk, here

AMAZING OPPORTUNITY PART 2

Last night, I was given another opportunity to preach at Glendale Baptist Church. My text was Psalm 23, and the title was "A Sheep's Testimony". As usual, the congregation at Glendale was extremely warm, supportive, and encouraging to me before, during, and after the service. Once again, I would like to express my thanks to Pastor Armstrong, Sister Armstrong, and the entire Glendale family for being the loving people you are. I love you all and will continue to keep you in my prayers.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO ME!!!!

Yes Everyone! Today is my Birthday: My Spiritual Birthday!

Eight years ago today, The LORD was gracious to draw me to Himself and allow me to become a member of His divine family. I wish I could say that these eight years were easy. Like many people who come to Christ, I started off on a shaky foundation built on TD Jakes, Creflo Dollar, Myles Munroe, and Eddie Long. In 2000, I was licensed as a minister and started preaching things that now makes my stomach turn. Then in 2001, the LORD directed me to the Reformed Faith through various circumstances, and then it was off to Seminary in 2002. It was here that I became rooted in the Reformation by various teachings and materials, but I also went through a small period of struggle being a Reformed African-American.

But despite the struggles, there have been great periods as well. Number one, that the LORD continues to grow me in Christ, Two I am a Reformed Christian (which is a true Biblical Christian), Three, that I have had the privilege of going through Seminary, Four, the LORD has given me a wonderful jail ministry Five, He has allowed me to build relationships with other Christians in many places throughout the years, and Six, That he has me working in a great full-time ministry where I can share my faith with the youth of our day.

So truly, the LORD does make everything work for the good of those who love Him (Romans 8:28). And I thank God for all the valleys and joys I have faced, and by His grace, I pray that I will grow more in Him as I live to seek His face.

PULLING NO PUNCHES

If you have never heard of Rev. Paul Washer, you might want to check him out. Rev. Washer is the founder and director of HeartCry Missionary Society in Muscle Shoals, AL. He is known not for holding back his passions when presenting the truths of Christ (especially towards the American Christian). Due to this, there are many mixed opinions about him in the Body of Christ, but I personally thank God for him. The Apostle Paul tells us to "preach the Word in season and out of season"(2 Timothy 4:2), and, in some venues, the "out of season" rules in the majority. But Rev. Washer shows us that no matter where we are or who we preach to, God's truth is God's truth! And, ultimately, we preach--not what the people want to hear--but rather, what God wants to hear! Below are some clips of Paul Washer.

http://uk.youtube.com/watch?v=uuabITeO4l8&feature=related

This is his most popular message. The message was so strong and condemning, that he was asked not to preach at this particular church ever again.

http://uk.youtube.com/watch?v=nplD7JhJMOU&feature=related

This is an interview that he gave with Kirk Cameron on the Heresy Broadcast Network (TBN).

A TURN IN THE RIGHT DIRECTION?

Apparently, Pastor Bill Hybels has seen the error of his ways (I think). I was forwarded an article that states that, after some deeper research, Willow Creek Church is abandoning their philosophy of church growth because it is not producing the results it advertises. Hybels says in the article that his "seeker sensitive" approach to winning the lost is not producing true disciples of Christ, but rather, it is just getting people into the church and inflating attendance.

In fact, Greg Hawkins--Executive Pastor of Willow Creek--goes as far as indirectly stating that their methods were not biblically sound from the get-go when he explains how they will remedy their mistake saying,

"Our dream is that we fundamentally change the way we do church. That we take out a clean sheet of paper and we rethink all of our old assumptions. Replace it with new insights. Insights that are informed by research and rooted in Scripture. Our dream is really to discover what God is doing and how he’s asking us to transform this planet.

Hawkins statement is very disturbing from many angles. And the saddest part is that many pastors--who should've known better--implemented these ideas among their congregations with no concern with how carnal the effect. I hope this admission makes everyone realize that it is God who truly builds His church(Matt. 16:18; Acts 2:47; 1 Cor. 3:6-7) and not fancy methods or ideas.

In conclusion, I read nothing in the article that told me detailed approaches that Willow Creek will take to "rewrite their wrongs" so I look forward to seeing what will happen with this "awakening" they have experienced.

If you would like to read the article, please click here

WOW!!!!

If I could sum up in one word the way I felt after attending the 2007 Miami Pastor's Conference, the above title would say it all. I mentioned in my first ever post that I was syked to attend this event and, after it ended on Saturday afternoon, I was immediately craving November 6-8, 2008 (the dates for next year's conference). As usual, Pastor Armstrong and the Glendale Baptist Church family, was extremely gracious to all the participants in all their labors--from directing us to our hotels to the wonderful meals they provided for us (I still have those collard greens from Thursday night on my mind).

Another thing that I loved about the conference was the personal interaction that I had with my African-American Reformed heroes. I was literally starstruck in meeting and talking with Rev. Ken Jones, Thabiti Anyabwile, and Sherrard Burns. I was also re-introduced to Anthony Carter and met (for the first time) such wonderful men like Dr. Hensworth Jonas, Louis Love, Robert Benson, Lance Lewis, Reddit Andrews, Michael Horton, and Michael Leach.
I owe these men so much for empowering me to finish Seminary, and it was an amazing honor to tell them this in person. It was also really cool to meet other participants such as Quincy Jones from Ft. Worth (TX), Kelvin Tarver from Sacramento (CA), and Allen Bynoe from Atlanta (GA).

As far as the preaching goes, I wish I could explain each sermon and workshop in the conference, but time would not permit (however, I will make comments about each one separately during the next few weeks on this blog). But here are some of the sermons and workshops that I will treasure from this event:

African-Americans making the case for Reformed Theology: Coming from Acts 17, Anthony Carter encouraged us, as African-Americans, to find common ground with other races within the same theological perspective. He demonstrated this in many points, one being by showing that our faith entails the same historical figures (such as Augustine, Wycliffe, Luther, Calvin, etc.) as our white brothers ans sisters. And thus, we should use this as a way to build harmony that will ultimately break the racial separation that has plagued the church for centuries. Another convicting point that Rev. Carter brought up was the necessity of writing. He correctly stated that, as African-Americans, we have very little material that comes from our Reformed perspective. Thus, it is our job--not just to support each other's work--but to leave a legacy for the next Reformed African-American generation that will give them the means to tie their experience with their faith. Lastly, this workshop also had the funniest moment of the conference in which Pastor Hensworth Jonas stated that he wanted to know more about the "hoop" in traditional black preaching.

The Gospel and the Fall of Man: Michael Leach set the church on fire with this message on Thursday Night. He beautifully showed how God has been so gracious with His giving of the Gospel by focusing on the condition of Adam and Eve (and thus, ourselves) after they fell in the Garden. This sermon brought my appreciation of God's goodness to a whole new level.

Limited Atonement/Particular Redemption: This was a workshop held Friday afternoon by Rev. Sherrard Burns. Using John 10, Rev. Burns showed how the Scripture truly teaches that Christ died for a particular people and not the world as a whole. He addressed "proof texts" from the opposing side (such as 2 Peter 3:9; John 3:16), and encouraged us to praise the God of Heaven and Earth for being loving enough to choose us as His peculiar people.

The Comfort of the Gospel: I have heard Anthony Carter preach before, but this was--without question--one of my favorite sermons from him, if not of all-time. Coming from Isaiah 40:1-5, Rev. Carter stated that, on Sunday, we as preachers need to understand that the people we minister to have been in a battle with Satan all week long. And a lot of times, they come in discouraged, beat up, and weary from the affairs that being in Christ produces. It is here that we need to inform them that while the battles may be hard, the war is over due to the person and work of Christ. So, we must encourage our people in this fact to give them renewed strength in their walk with the LORD Jesus.

As the next few weeks come along, I will give more info about this life-changing Conference. And I would like to encourage you now to set aside November 6-8, 2008 for next year's Pastor's Conference at Glendale Baptist Church. I promise you it will revolutionize your life and doctrine.

FORT LAUDERDALE IN CRISIS

Coral Ridge Ministries has an interesting feature dealing with Fort Lauderdale Mayor Jim Naugle's battle against the homosexual cause in the city. After watching this clip, I can't fathom how a true Christian can say that we should not fight sin in the political realm. Even though we are not of this world, doesn't mean that we should let anything (and everything) happen around us. But don't just take my word for it, watch the feature for yourself right here

RENDER UNTO CAESAR THE THINGS THAT ARE CAESAR'S

The hits just keep on comin' for Juanita Bynum. Apparently, she may lose her Atlanta home due to unpaid property taxes. Now before I go any further in this article, I am not writing this to make fun of her situation. But one has to wonder how someone who has a worldwide following that would quadruple the population of most small countries, can divorce her husband, leave a megachurch she had with him, and is in the process of starting up another church that will most certainly draw in thousands, cannot (or maybe will not) pay back taxes on her property? Equally, why would Bynum want to solicit funds from her followers to build a new church where she can "intercede on their behalf"(which is something I thought only Christ does--see Romans 8:34), when her top priority should be to pay the government the money she has neglected to give them for well over a year?

I have always had issues with people like her who are led more by voices that verses, and this is why. Knowing a little about her history, this situation is just one we can chalk up to the vast amount of blunders this woman is known for making in her life.

Now in no way am I stating that I personally have it all together. But to consistently act in carnal ways, when you are passing yourself off as a "prophet" of God is ridiculous. But, unfortunately, the sad part is that she probably won't learn anything from this. More than likely, when she finally comments on this issue, she will possibly try to spin some story about she received a "word" from God that will be some ploy to make her look like an innocent lamb in all of this. However, the Bible makes it clear that in addition to giving to God, we are to give to "Caesar what is Caesar's" (Mark 12:17). So Bynum cannot legitimately come up with some "word from God" that will override this clear statement in Scripture. And, let's be real, Juanita Bynum is hardly hurting for money even in the midst of a divorce, so there is no reason for her to allow her situation to get to this level. I pray that those who are devoted to her will finally see that this modern flurry of "prophets", "prophetesses", and "prosperity teachers" can only lead them in carnality--which will only make them like the preachers they follow.

If you would like to read the article, click here

Hear Juanita's $200,000 need here

HAPPY REFORMATION DAY!!!

I just want to express to everyone a Happy Reformation Day. Today, 490 years ago, a German monk named Martin Luther nailed his 95 theses on the door of the Church of Wittenberg. Thus, this act started what became known as "The Protestant Reformation", a movement that was geared to bring the church back to the Biblical truths of Scripture and out of the erroneous doctrines that were galvanizing the church at the time.

Being Reformed, I thank God for His sovereign move in the formation of this event, and the impact that it has had even in the church today. Truly, this movement has impacted every evangelical church in some way--even those who do not hold to the doctrines that were recovered during this period. And while it both saddens and excites me that there is much work to do in reforming the church, I do praise God that He is loving to make His truth available to anyone much less everyone. So for those of you who are being blessed from the sound, biblical instruction that was recovered from this movement, it is my prayer that you will cherish this day as the time where God, in His absolute grace and mercy, revived His people to proclaim the truth of His Word and His Son to all the world for His glory.


Listen to White Horse Inn's Celebration of Reformation Day here

To read Luther's 95 theses click here

JUANITA BYNUM'S "DEFINITION" OF SANCTIFICATION

The Westminster Shorter Catechism defines sanctification as being "the work of God’s free grace, whereby we are renewed in the whole man after the image of God, and are enabled more and more to die unto sin, and live unto righteousness".

Well, Juanita Bynum has an interesting "definition" of her own. Take a listen

10 DAYS AND COUNTING.....................

Yes, we are 10 days away from the 3rd annual Miami Pastor's Conference, and--as the picture indicates--there is promised to be fireworks galore. Attendence is about five times what it was last year, and this year's theme, "What is the Gospel", promises to be enriching and challenging for all who come.

If you have not registered as of yet, time is running out! Please click here for all the information you need to do so.

And, while at the conference, come by the KNOX Seminary booth and pass along your greetings to me!!!!!!!

BERNADETTE TODD: A TRUE INSPIRATION

Every Christian has a testimony on how God led them from periods of despair to having faith in the LORD Jesus. And last night, I was blessed to hear one of the most powerful expressions of this truth.

If you have never heard the testimony of Bernadette Todd, a woman crippled with Muscular Dystrophy from childhood, you are missing out on one of the most emotional, riveting, and inspiring stories that you will ever hear. In hearing about Bernadette's life, there was hardly a dry eye in the church. She told of how doctors informed her parents that she would not live past the age of 8, how other people ridiculed and embarassed her, how her parents went through many struggles--both emotionally and financially, and how she endured periods of confusion and anger towards God and his Sovereign plan for her life-- all due to her condition.

But by the grace of Christ, and followed by a deep love and determination from both her parents and her husband Jeff (shown with her in the picture above), Bernadette was able to overcome all these hurts and became a champion in showing the power and mercy of Almighty God. For a woman who wasn't supposed to live past 8 (and was satisfied just to reach 30), to currently be the age of 40, shows the awesome grace and love of our LORD.

And while her battles on earth still continue--especially as her body continues to get weaker day by day--the joy that she now relishes is in knowing that she has ultimate victory because of her faith in the LORD Jesus. Truly Bernadetts's story puts to life the words of Andrae Crouch who wrote:

I've had many tears and sorrows,

I've had questions for tomorrow,

There've been times I didn't know right from wrong:

But in every situation God gave blessed consolation

That my trials come to only make me strong.

Through it all, through it all,

I've learned to trust in Jesus, I've learned to trust in God

Through it all, through it all,

I've learned to depend upon His Word.

If you would like to learn more about Bernadette Todd, please click on the links below:

http://www.bernadettetodd.com/ (Personal Website)

http://uk.youtube.com/watch?v=HMRwvw6LCcA (YouTube video of Bernadette in Bolivia)

http://www.floridabaptistwitness.com/5853.article (Article about Bernadette on Florida Baptist Witness)

REFORMED THEOLOGY AND HIP-HOP: A MATCH MADE IN HEAVEN

I have to admit, I am not a big hip-hop music fan. I do enjoy listening to old 80's style rap, but the style of rap nowadays really does not resignate with me.

However, my friend Gus is a HUGE fan, and some time ago he introduced me to this Christian rapper named LeCrae. And I must admit, after listening to his album, I was very impressed! And what makes Lecrae interesting is that he is not your average Christian rapper. But rather, he is a REFORMED Christian rapper. LeCrae definitely destroys the myth that all Reformed people are stuffy, hymn singing Christians. I applaud the fact that God is using people like LeCrae in getting out the Reformed message in various outlets that have been traditionally "off limits" in the Reformed community.

So, if you are a Reformed believer, but feel empty because you don't have any music to listen to, I would encourage you to check out LeCrae's newest album "After the Music Stops", you won't be sorry.

To read more about LeCrae check out the following links:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lecrae

http://profile.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=user.viewprofile&friendID=22864243

JAY-Z, NAS, KANYE, AND THE OCCULT

Is some of today's hottest Hip-Hop artist tied with the Freemason Occult? Click on the link below and judge for yourself?

(FYI: Listen to the lyrics as you watch the video)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iX-xVN0xERk

VEILING "REFORMED"

There is truly a joy in knowing that more African-Americans are heading towards the Reformed faith day by day. For example, I was talking with Pastor Armstrong at Glendale Baptist Church in Miami the other day, and he told me of the rapid increase (compared to last year) of attendees for the upcoming Miami Pastor's Conference in November. Equally, there is a joy in knowing that our people are not only getting properly instructed in these truths, but also that there is an excitement of the things that they are learning.

This last situation is currently happening at my church, and last week I had the privilege of discussing this rapid excitement with a friend and fellow minister who serves with me. In asking him why does he think that the Reformed faith is having such a positive effect on the congregation, he replied in an interesting manner saying, "Well first of all, we have never used the term 'Reformed' to express the type of teaching in the church".

And the reason this reply was interesting to me is because I am finding more and more people teaching the Reformed faith who are purposely leaving out the terms "Reformed" or "Calvinism" in the presentation of their instruction . Now this begs an interesting question: Should Reformed African-American pastors and teachers avoid using these terms and focus more on the theology promoted?

I believe there are good reasons on both sides. For instance, I have ran into some African-American Christians who don't even know what the term "Reformed" means, even though some can give you proper explanation of the doctrines. But to ask them if they know these truths as "Reformed" would generate a puzzled look on their faces. Equally, given the false info that is out there about Reformed theology and Calvinism, many have steered away from using these terms because they don't want to people to be drawn away by pre-conceived opinions. But on the flipside, many say that it is important to use this term in order to explain its differences from other theologies and beliefs (such as Pentecostalism, Roman Catholic, Jehovah's Witness, Hebrew Israelite, etc.). Equally, many (myself included) has used the term to give the people being taught a thorough understanding of God's Word and the history of the doctrines it promotes. For example, I not only find it important to teach people about the Trinity, Christology, justification, sanctification, adoption, etc., but to also show them how the early church developed and defined these terms (in regards to what was accepted as Orthodox and what was heresy), and how the Reformers later recovered these truths in attempt to establish the church back to its apostolic doctrinal roots. In short, I use the term "Reformed" to emphasize the biblical and historical accuracy of the doctrines I believe and teach.

But whatever your take on this issue, we can take joy in one thing: The truths within this theology are truly revolutionalizing the African-American Community. For instance, in my jail ministry, men are becoming more loving and embracive to the LORD Jesus Christ when the Spirit of God makes known to them God's Sovereignty over their salvation, and Christ's shed blood on behalf of their sins. And, in the final analysis, this is what really matters and is pleasing to our LORD.

A SPIRITUAL TRAGEDY

Rev. Anthony Carter's blog "Non Nobis Domine" has an interesting entry called "Faith and Foreclosures", in which Rev. Carter makes a observation that the increasing foreclosure rates in the Atlanta-area (at last researched is 49% higher than a year ago) could be linked to the wide amount of mega churches and popular preachers that are in the city. Now Rev. Carter does not definitely state that the two are linked, but, in reading the article, it does make you wonder whether the impacts of the Dollars, Longs, and Bynums (to name a few) and the prosperity messages they promote to their congregations has any connection, given that Atlanta has the most megachurches per capita in the nation.

Equally, after reading this article, I wonder what are the foreclosure numbers here in South Florida and in other places (such as Dallas and Houston, TX) that also house very popular megachurches. If Rev. Carter has discovered a truth here, then this is a spiritual tragedy at its essence. It's bad enough to preach this false gospel and swindel people out of the little money they have promising them material "blessings" from God. But to cause children to be out on the street, men and women to live in their cars, and cause the homeless rate to skyrocket--all in the name of Jesus--is distasteful in the highest degree.

If you want to read Rev. Carter's blog entry, click on the blog name above and tell me what you think!!!

AN EXCELLENT READ

If you haven't read Thabiti Anyabwile's "The Faithful Preacher" as of yet, I would highly recommend that you pick it up at your local Christian bookstore!!!
My friend Steven gave me this book for a graduation gift from Seminary, and once I started reading it, I couldn't put it down. The book chronicles 3 African-American preachers: Lemuel Haynes, Francis Grimke, and Daniel Payne. After giving a thorough biography of each man, Anyabwile blesses us with an actual sermon delivered by each one. If you are a preacher, you will find that each man charges you to be an educated, faithful proclaimer of the LORD Jesus. If you are a layperson, it will encourage you to examine whether the preaching that is coming out of the pulpit in your church is Christ-focused. So, again, if you're looking for a book that is challenging--yet inspiring--don't hesitate in getting this absolute masterpiece.

SIN RANKING

I just finished reading an article by Jemele Hill in which she makes the claim that Isiah Thomas' actions toward Anucha Browne Sanders were worse than Don Imus'. Now we are all familiar with Don Imus' "nappy headed 'h' word" remark towards the Rutgers women's basketball team by now. But is this truly better than Isiah Thomas saying that it is OK for black men to call black women the "b" word, and not for white men to do it? The Bible says to let our words edify each other (Ephesians 4:29), and while it is clear that neither man did such in their incidents, is it possible to judge one situation over the other? Equally, in comparing the situations, where is this "line" that determines Isiah's actions were worse than Imus'?

Now don't get me wrong, I am not defending Isiah Thomas at all! However, I could never understand the "I'm a more righteous sinner than you" mentality, especilaly among unbelievers. So my criticism lies more with someone ranking their incidents more than the incidents itself? Below is the link to the article, please read it and let me know what you think!

http://sports.espn.go.com/espn/page2/story?page=hill/070921

ALL MY DEVOTION WAS EMOTION

Once again Blair Wingo hits it on the head! Every Christian should hear this poem!!!!

http://uk.youtube.com/watch?v=Q-qSi7VKBpU

OSTEEN ON 60 MINUTES

I finally had an opportunity to watch the Joel Osteen feature on 60 Minutes. And although many parts of his interview were distrubing, the part of this feature that really grieved me was when Osteen was at a book signing and was greeted by a husband and wife, who were Jewish and Roman Catholic respectively. The man stated how much they enjoyed watching him every week, and surprisingly Osteen was touched by this statement.
Now don't get me wrong, I am not saying that it is a crime for Jews and Catholics to watch what would be perceived as "Christian" preaching. However, this situation does show the lack of Christ-centered preaching that is within Osteen's messages. It never bothered Osteen that the Jewish man was denying the deity of Christ, and the Catholic was living a life of "works righteousness", instead of trusting in Christ alone for salvation. And despite the fact that Osteen passes himself off as Orthodox, thus--by default--adhering to beliefs that both the man and his wife reject, Osteen seemed not to be focused on the couple's radical doctrinal differences--especially among themselves. Because, in the Osteen theology, the most important thing is that the person taps into their "God-given" potential to produce a "victorious" life.
But the question we must ask is: Is is possible to be victorious without Christ? Well, Paul states very plainly in 1 Corinthians 15:57:

"But thanks be to God! He gives us the victory THROUGH OUR LORD JESUS CHRIST"

So, Mr. Osteen, real victorious living comes through being in the LORD Jesus and not in responding to "Easy Listening" preaching (as Dr. Michael Horton called his preaching in the segment). Truth be told: While there was a lot of emotion from his followers, as well as Osteen himself, the lack of Christ's atoning work in his messages makes them weak when it comes to acheiving a true victorious life. So, in summation, I would have to agree with Dr. Horton and state that the Osteen message is a dangerous one indeed. And sadly, his popularity reveals the gullibility of many in the body of Christ that refuse to be "Good Bereans" when it comes to the messages that they listen to.

BLAIR WINGO LAYS IT DOWN

I just finished watching a GodTube video of a young woman by the name of Blair Wingo. She was giving a poem called "Allow me to re-introduce the Christ". If you haven't seen it already, I would advise you to click the link below and watch it. I haven't seen a young person who lays down the Gospel like she does!!!


http://www.godtube.com/view_video.php?viewkey=ac7b677e7241a531b617

A SLAMMIN' SITE

THERE ARE MANY GREAT PREACHING SITES ON THE INTERNET, BUT THERE IS ONLY ONE THAT I LISTEN TO EVERY NIGHT. THAT IS WWW.REFORMINGCHURCHES.ORG, AND ON THIS SITE YOU CAN HEAR AFRICAN-AMERICAN REFORMED PREACHING AT IT'S BEST. CHECK THIS SITE OUT, AND I PROMISE YOU IT WILL TRULY BLESS YOUR SOUL.

An Amazing Opportunity

This past Sunday night, I had the privilege of preaching at Glendale Baptist Church in Miami, FL on the subject of The Biblical Sovereign God. It was really fun and an amazing blessing to be both invited by Pastor Armstrong and to be warmly received by his congregation. He, as well as Anthony Carter and Sherard Burns, were my inspirations in Seminary and empowered me to not be discouraged in the fact that I was a African-American embracing Reformed Theology. I want to publicly thank Pastor Armstrong and the entire Glendale Baptist Family for being so warm and loving during my visit there. I will forever love everyone of you.

2007 Miami Pastor's Conference

I am so syked!!!

The 2007 version of the Miami Pastor's Conference is a month away, and I cannot wait to experience the blessings that God will bestow at this event. The Conference will take place at Glendale Baptist Church, and the theme this year is "What is the Gospel?". I truly believe that all who attend will be truly blessed by the messages and fellowship that will be provided.

Speakers include: Host Pastor Rickey Armstrong, Pastors Ken Jones, Michael Leach, and Reddit Andrews, Rev. Anthony J. Carter, Rev. Sherard Burns, and Drs. Thomas Ascol and Michael Horton.

If you have not registered, do not delay any longer! You don't want to miss out on this life-changing event!!!!