Imagine my surprise a few weeks ago when witnessing a veritable Twitter tsunami about a conference in South Carolina at another one of those churches teaching other churches to be like them. The twitters were flying everywhere - some angry and some worshiping. I DM'd a few people I trust to find out what the heck was going on as I continued to follow random quotes by a "preacher" named Perry Noble.
Fortunately (or unfortunately as the case may be) the video stream is now up HERE for everyone to see. (You can fast forward past the lengthy and self-deprecating introduction to around 75 minutes and watch until the end to get most of the carnage). As Noble calls bloggers and other assorted church types "jackasses" from the pulpit, I couldn't help but respond via Twitter in 140 characters or less "The true definition of jackass is an irreverent mega-church pastor who uses a bully pulpit"
Watching the video stream brought to mind another time eleven years ago as I sat in a New York City conference room crammed full of weary Music Pastors gathered to be encouraged, when to my dismay another prominent minister who has a Tabernacle in Brooklyn appeared and began screaming against compromising "Seeker" churches - and especially one called Willow - Hmmmm. These guys sound very much alike.
Did I hit rewind or something?
Speaking of rewind - these guys (and especially this new breed of self-titled "anointed preachers") sound eerily like another guy that founded a University called Bob Jones who hated anyone with skin of color or that was not just like them.
Hey, wasn't that located in South Carolina too? They must drink something spiteful in that sweet tea.
I realize that in calling these divisive orators out, I will be accused of being like them. But I ask you - who will hold them accountable for what they say? Most Christians are afraid they will burn a bridge or make the wrong person in high places mad.
All I'm asking is that we love each other and work together.
"You're my brother, You're my sister, so take me by the hand. TOGETHER WE WILL WORK, until he comes."
Where is the love?
Oh yeah, and when will we Christians learn not to worship at the altar of westernized and materialistic success? Just because a guy gets to "preach" at a church where thousands attend does not mean he is infallible. He is just like me - or you. Just ask Ted Haggard.
Where Is The Love?
We can't ever fight the real enemy because we are so busy fighting and hurting each other.
This a loving but firm call from one jackass to another for LOVE.
This is the greatest commandment, JESUS said, that WE LOVE ONE ANOTHER.
