Now in our 9th Year!
10 Stupid Things Ministers Should never do If you aspire to ministry, don’t be stupid. Decide now to avoid these obvious pitfalls. I had the privilege of sharing a pulpit with Dr. Mary Ann Brown two times. She was bold, prophetic and painfully blunt. People who hate women preachers hated her even more because of her no-nonsense sermons— always delivered in her Texas twang. She would get her audi-
ence laughing and then skewer them with a hot blade of truth. When this spiritual giant died last month at age 73, I remembered the last words she said to me when we were together at a conference in Chicago in 2011. After lamenting the fact that so many ministers in the United States were failing, Mary Ann locked eyes with me and said with stern, motherly authority: “Lee, please don’t ever get stupid.” continued on page 23
Steve Martin in “A Leap of Faith”
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April 2013
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April 2013
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OCN Mission Statement The Ozarks Christian News is published under the auspices of the Ozarks Christian Foundation, a 501(c)3 non profit agency. Its primary purpose is to edify the body of Christ through inspirational articles of Christian faith and courage, educate the body of Christ through informative articles promoting the cultivation of a Christian world view, and encourage the body of Christ to support one another. Our focus is on, and to, the invisible church which Jesus Christ said, “The gates of hell would not prevail against.”
Patsy Cline Remembered Patsy Cline Remembered is a show that not only features the greatest hits of one of the most influential female vocalists, but invites you to explore the reality of who Patsy was beyond her
We announce the current events of the visible church, and we believe the Body of Christ is made up of people who have found salvation by faith in Jesus Christ evidenced by the good works they are doing and have done. We encourage our readers to be open minded to differing opinions on non-essential matters. We report the good as well as the bad within our church family as a testament for the necessity of a Savior. Our observations are made from a fairly moderate to conservative viewpoint.
April Proofers: We were able to proof only half the paper this issue so if you find any mistakes don’t blame Veeda Smith and her husband, Charles Also Peter Kershaw and daughter Amanda.
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music. Come celebrate her achievements and grieve her troubles as you discover how she paved the way for women to become an integral part of Country Music. Patsy Cline Remembered stars C.J. Newsom, who performed in the award winning John Denver Tribute show for over six years, and now is eager to share how Patsy influenced her life and the career of many female country singers. The show takes you on a journey of not only Patsy’s experi-
ences, but of those that influenced her like Judy Garland, her friends such as Loretta Lynn, and those most influenced by her like Reba McEntire. Patsy Cline Remembered is an engaging and entertaining show. As the last notes fade away, you will feel like you have become a close friend of a musical giant, Patsy Cline.
Monday through Saturday at the Elite Theatre inside the IMAX Complex at 9 AM. For more information, call:
(417) 335-4832
Come see CJ Newsom... and the 5 piece live band! Left to Right: Dean McClish, Peter Kershaw, Destin Sacoulas, Sam Kershaw, Michaela Kershaw, Jonathon Kershaw, Amanda Kershaw, Veeda Smith, Charles Smith, Lorri Sacoulas (holding Yanni Sacoulas), Tami Bandy, Dr. Bo Bandy, and John Sacoulas
OCN Contributors Veeda Smith - Branson Frontline Jeremy Storch - Ask the Rabbi... Dave Ramsey - Act Your Wage Dee Wampler - A Minute with a Man George Kurland - Staff Photographer Max Lucado - Crosswalk Column John Sacoulas - Steward & Managing Editor Lorraine Sacoulas - Steward & Publisher Virgil Peck - Circulation Assistance Marvin & Regina Reynolds- Archivists
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Who's Your # 1 Priority - Your Spouse or Kids?
so that you and your spouse can escape to a romantic holiday up in the mountains.
by Jim Daly
It comes down to this: Are the two of you a team acting as one voice, looking out for the other, praying for each other, lifting the other up in the eyes of your children?
So, if you're married and have children, who's your first priority - your spouse or the kids? Entertainment reporter and reality TV personality Giuliana Rancic sparked something of a controversy last week when she said she puts her marriage first over motherhood. Her comments made headlines across the nation and spurred a debate over how couples should prioritize relationships. It’s a good conversation to have. Mrs. Rancic says she puts her husband, Bill, first because “the best thing we can do for him [son Edward Duke] is have a strong marriage.” She has her supporters – one commenter to an online story said, “Putting your marriage first gives the child a stable, loving home to grow up in,” while others pointed out that some marriages fall apart when spouses stop making each other a priority. Critics on the other side of this issue say couples should make the children the center of the home – after all a marriage may not last, they say, but you’re a parent forever. That's what you call cynicism. The logic goes like this: Husbands can take care of themselves; kids can’t. I think they're missing the point. Nobody is suggesting letting elementary-aged children fend for themselves over a weekend
Or does your entire focus revolve around the tediousness of tasks involving the kids at the complete expense of your spouse? Of course if you're a parent of young children much of your day is consumed with feeding and changing diapers - and maybe also keeping them from destroying the house. There are practical demands to meet, but even still, what is your attitude toward the "pecking order" in your home?
worrying about being your spouse’s priority you're going to make yourself miserable. Don't keep score. Embrace a spirit of blessed self-forgetfulness. Instead of worrying about what you're going to get, spend your time actively loving your spouse and children - and give everything you've got! I’m interested to hear from you. How does this debate strike you? What do you think is best: marriage first, or children first? Follow me on Twitter @Dalyfocus IMPORTANT MESSAGE
I know a guy who says he's # 5 on his wife's list - after the kids, the grandchildren, her girlfriends and the family dog.
Be advised that the contents of this publication often do not represent the positions held by many of the sponsors of the Ozarks Christian News (or for that matter, the publishers) Please remember to favor the advertisers here in the OCN. It would not exist without them!
For the last twelve years since we’ve been blessed with children Jean and I have tried to find a good balance. We haven't always hit the mark but we never stop trying. Through it all, though, I try to remember the vows I made to Jean at the altar that she would always have the top spot in my heart, after the Lord, of course.
Government's view of the economy could be summed up in a few short phrases: If it moves, tax it. If it keeps moving, regulate it. And if it stops moving, subsidize it. -- Ronald Reagan (1986)
Only you can answer this question of priority for yourself. But if you want to have the best chance at a happy and healthy home life – for you and your kids - you're wise to make sure that you and your spouse make the other a priority. Yet here's the paradox: If you become consumed with
Liberals view of people could be summed up the same way: If they are working, tax them. If they work really hard, regulate them. And if they stop working, entitle them. --John G. Sacoulas 2013)
April 2013
Never Again-Breaking the Silence in Branson, Missouri The March of Remembrance, held annually in cities world-wide to honor Holocaust survivors, is designed to break the silence of indifference and anti-Semitism. Through this march we are standing in solidarity with the Jewish people and with Israel. The March of Remembrance in Branson, Missouri will take place on Saturday, April 6 at 3:30PM on the sidewalk in front of P.Graham Dunn and Branson Mill Craft Village at 3500 Gretna Road. Prior to the march at 2:30PM, a DVD testimony of a Holocaust survivor will be presented at The Tabernacle of Praise at 256 Church Road in Branson. Visitors are encouraged to participate in the movie as well as the march.
April 2013
www.OzarksChristianNews.com Kay E. Knipschild, D.D.S.
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by Max Lucado The heart of Jesus was spiritual. Our hearts seem so far from His. He is pure. We are greedy. He is peaceful; we are hassled. He is purposeful; we are distracted. How could we ever hope to have the heart and mind of Jesus? Ready for a surprise? You already do. You already have the heart of Christ. Would I kid you? One of the supreme promises of God is simply this: if you’ve given your life to Jesus, Jesus has given Himself to you.
The Apostle Paul explains it in 1 Corinthians 2:16: “Strange as it seems, we Christians actually do have within us a portion of the very thoughts and mind of Christ.” The same one who saved your soul longs to remake your heart. His plan is nothing short of a total transformation. Let’s fix our eyes on Jesus. Perhaps in seeing Him, we will see what we can become! Listen to UpWords with Max Lucado at:
OnePlace.com
Why Paul and Jan Crouch Can't Escape Accountability see page 37 on the on line edition Bonus page! @ www.OzarksChristianNews.com
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Springfield Church of God (7th Day) A Happy Church! Pastor: Andy Hassen
Arkansas Bans Abortion at 12 Weeks
1521 E. 24th Street N. Springfield, MO 65803
Arkansas adopted the most restrictive abortion law in the United States in mid March, mostly banning the procedure after 12 weeks of pregnancy as both houses of the state legislature overrode the governor's veto. The law, the Arkansas Human Heartbeat Protection Act, will likely go into effect in August, if it survives expected legal challenges. The Republican-controlled House voted 56-33 on Wednesday to override the veto by Democratic Governor Mike Beebe, which followed the state Senate's override on Tuesday. In Arkansas, lawmakers can override a veto with a simple majority vote. Arkansas will have the earliest abortion ban in the country, according to the Guttmacher Institute, a research group that supports abortion rights. The measure prohibits most abortions at about 12 weeks of pregnancy, once a fetal heartbeat can be detected by a standard ultrasound. It includes exemptions for rape, incest, danger to the life of the mother and major fetal conditions.
A week without a Sabbath is perpetual bondage.
Sabbath School: 9:45 am Worship: 11:00 am Wednesday night: 6:30 pm
(417) 831-6721 Doctors who violate the prohibition would have their licenses revoked by the state medical board.
by SUZI PARKER/REUTERS
April 2013
"This bill seeks to limit those abortions that are done for birth-control purposes," said Jerry Cox, president of Family Council of Arkansas, which supports the measure. "This is the strongest pro-life bill passed in Arkansas since the (Supreme) Court handed down the Roe v. Wade decision in 1973." Cecile Richards, president of Planned Parenthood Action Fund, said her group was deeply disappointed. "The majority of Arkansans—and the majority of Americans—don't want politicians involved in a woman's personal medical decisions about her pregnancy," she said. Shift to Statehouses Battles over abortion in the United States have largely shifted from the federal courts to statehouses. States in 2011 passed a record-breaking number of new abortion restrictions, 92, and in 2012 passed the second-highest number, 43, according to Guttmacher. This year, for example, the Indiana Senate passed a bill that would make the state the ninth to require an ultrasound prior to an abortion.
In Arkansas, the fetal heartbeat bill was one of several bills introduced by Republicans this year seeking to restrict abortion. This is the first time the party has controlled both chambers since the Reconstruction era following the Civil War. Under another law that took effect February 28, Arkansas bans most abortions after 20 weeks. That measure also became law after legislators overrode the governor's veto.
people of the state. "I am encouraged as a woman and a mom," she said. "I'm thankful to the men and women of the Arkansas legislature for standing on the promises they made to Arkansans to vote according to the views and morals of the citizens they represent." Reporting by Suzi Parker; Editing by Corrie MacLaggan, Gary Hill, Leslie Adler, Steve Orlofsky and Lisa Shumaker
In both of his veto override letters, Beebe questioned the constitutionality of the bills. He said the bills contradicted the 1973 Roe v. Wade ruling that legalized abortion until a fetus could viably survive outside the womb. A fetus is generally considered viable at 22 to 24 weeks. Challenge Expected The ACLU of Arkansas was expected to challenge the 12-week ban in court. Holly Dixon, an attorney with the ACLU of Arkansas, said that if the 12-week ban is successfully challenged in court, then the 20-week ban would still stand. Previous Arkansas law limited abortions after 25 weeks. Laurie Lee, a resident of Cabot, Arkansas, said that the newly passed 12week law is a reflection of the will of the
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April 2013
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The Absurb cost of American health care The US spends more on health care than the next 10 biggest spenders combined: Japan, Germany, France, China, the U.K., Italy, Canada, Brazil, Spain and Australia by Dr. Mercola costs are a leading cause of the $750 billion Americans overspend each year on health care By dissecting the medical bills people have received, journalist, Time Magazine writer and author, Steven Brill, says, “We can see exactly how and why we are overspending and where the money is going. Americans are being grossly overcharged; even nonprofit hospitals are making greater profits than some prosperous for-profit businesses, and hospital presidents and department heads can make upwards of $2-4 million in annual salary The entire system unfairly affect the poor and uninsured as they are charged
Hospital
the FULL inflated price while those with insurance have their costs radically reduced through pre-negotiated lowered rates. Hospitals get away with this nonsense while physicians would go to jail if they had charged separately like this. A so-called medical-billing advocate can help you not only read and understand the content of your bills, but also negotiate with the hospital to reduce the charges A New Cottage Industry: Medical-Billing Advocates A small grassroots-type industry has emerged as a result of shellshocked patients reaching out for help to understand their medical bills. Referring to themselves as medical-billing advocates, they help you not only read and understand the content of your bills, but also negotiate with the hospital to reduce the charges. Brill quotes Katalin Goencz, a former appeals coordinator in a hospital billing department who now runs her own medical-billing advocacy business from her home in Stamford: “The hospitals all know the bills are fic-
tion, or at least only a place to start the discussion, so you bargain with them.”
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Even with the help of a medical-billing advocate (who of course charges a fee The problem with that, of course, is: for the service), many uninsured patients what about the people who don’t realize still overpay. After all, getting a 50 perthey CAN bargain with a major hospital? cent discount on a test billed at $200, And should we really accept “bills of fic- which should cost $15 is not necessarily tion” to begin with? Brill writes: a great bargain, although it’s certainly an improvement if we only take fictional The entire system unfairly affect the numbers into poor and uninsured as they are charged account. The the FULL inflated price while those with sad thing is, insurance have their costs radically as mentioned earlier, the reduced through pre-negotiated low- overcharges ered rates. are SO grossly inflated that even if you get the bill cut in half, the hospital “Goencz is part of a trade group called still makes out like a bandit! If the U.S. the Alliance of Claim Assistant health care system was a country, it Professionals, which has about 40 mem- would be the 6th largest economy on the bers across the country. Another group, entire planet. The losers are the patients; Medical Billing Advocates of America, approximately 60 percent of all personal has about 50 members. Each advocate bankruptcies in the United States are seems to handle 40 to 70 cases a year for related to exorbitant medical bills. the uninsured and those disputing insurance claims. That would be about 5,000 patients a year out of what must be tens of millions of Americans facing these issues – which may help explain why 60% of the personal bankruptcy filings each year are related to medical bills.”
Pierce Ar row’s Jimmy Fulb right Jimmy was born in Columbus, GA, but "grew up everywhere" because his father was in the Air Force. He's been intersted in music since early childhood and credits his grandfather as his musical mentor. He is proficient on piano and loves to sing. He also plays guitar and drums. With a diverse professional music background, he has played keyboard and/or bass for Gospel acts, such as the Dixie Echoes, as well as Country acts, Donna Fargo, Earl Thomas Conley, Lee Greenwood and T. Graham Brown. Jimmy also has 12 years of experience at production theaters in Branson,MO, and Pigeon Forge, TN. He originally joined The Oaks Band in the summer of 2001 which led Jimmy to being the newest addition to Pierce Arrow in 2013.
"If you have food in the refrigerator, clothes on your back, a roof overhead and a place to sleep you are richer than 75% of this world. If you have money in the bank, in your wallet, and spare change in a dish, you are among the top 8% of the world's wealthy, and if you get this on your own computer, you are part of the 1% in the world who has that opportunity."
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It’s how you say it by Bill Farrel
M
y wife, Pam, lives at a fast pace and, not surprisingly, drives at a fast pace, too. Naturally, I worry about her safety, but I've learned that criticizing her lead foot may not be the smartest move.
www.OzarksChristianNews.com send the message, "I love you, so not everything is wrong." The compliment must be genuine, though. Most wives can smell insincerity a mile away. Next, I encourage change with a request. I say "request" because I am her partner, not her parent. With my kids, I can authoritatively call for change, but with my wife, I can only make an appeal. She decides how she will respond.
You know how it is, men. Your wife drives dangerously, but she gets mad anytime you Finally, I close with a statement that bring it reinforces her value I don’t think up. Or I think I to me. My wife has I drive too she just wet my the potential to spends make me feel better fast! wool... money about myself than she agreed anyone else on earth can, not to, but she blows so it's always worth up whenevreminding her of that er you amazing fact. point it out. Putting all this together, I told Pam, "You are truly What is a remarkable. You encourage man supcountless women and are a posed to do? great mom. I am concerned, You don't want though, because you sometimes to ignore issues that concern you, seem unaware of how fast you're but you don't want to be a bully, driving. I would love it if you would either. slow down. We all want you around for a long time because you have As I pondered this dilemma, I such a positive influence on us. I am remembered two important things a better man because of you, and our about my wife: First, everything in boys are privileged to have you as her life is connected to everything their mom." else in her life. When one thing is wrong, everything is wrong. Second, This is one way I speak to my wife she was designed to make things so she doesn't feel threatened or bulbetter. When Pam senses she is mak- lied. You might want to try this, too. ing life better, she is pleased. When The next time you need to talk to she senses the opposite, she either your wife about a touchy issue, panics or starts planning. These two think CR-V: compliment, request simple facts gave me insight on how and value. to speak to my wife without making her feel threatened. This article first appeared in the January/February, 2011 issue of Pam drives a Honda CR-V. It's not Thriving Family magazine. clear what those three letters stand Copyright © 2010 by Bill Farrel. for, but they remind me of the best Used by permission. way I can approach my wife: compliment, request, value. I start the conversation with a compliment. When I praise my wife, I
ThrivingFamily.com
April 2013
B R A N S O N F R O N T L I N E by Veeda Smith Pastor Rick Joyner will be the special guest on The Jim Bakker TV Show at Morningside on May 1 at 11:30 AM. Joyner is the Senior Pastor of MorningStar Fellowship Church in Fort Mill, South Carolina. Joyner is also the author of more than forty books, including The Final Quest, A Prophetic History, and Church History. He is the president of The Oak Initiative, an interdenominational movement that is mobilizing thousands of Christians to be engaged in the great issues of our times, being the salt and light that they are called to be. The Jim Bakker TV Show, hosted by Jim and Lori Bakker, is taped before a live audience and broadcast one week later. The Morningside studio is located on Highway 86 in Blue Eye, Missouri. There is no admission charge to be a part of the audience. For more information, call 417 779-9000. The monthly community worship service ALive will be on Friday, May 3 at the Dick Clark American Band Stand Theater on Highway 76. Event Organizers, Colt Straub and Brian Duvall are billing the event as an alternative to other Branson late-night venues. The Gospel Hour with Pastor Sam Stauffer will host the event. “We invite everyone to be a part of this worship service. Alive is an unconventional adventure in dynamic worship that will include high-octane music geared to communicate out-of-the-box worship styles in a safe and united community setting,” said Stauffer. The ALive event is open to everyone and will begin after the shows at 11 PM until 12:30 AM. Admission is free. Call 417-3375677 for more information or browse their website at www.thealivelife.com. America’s Got Talent Finalist, Voices of Glory, will be performing their new show, AYO, at the Hughes Brothers Theatre in Branson. The trio consists of three siblings, Nadia, Avery, and Michael Cole. AYO (Yoruba for Joy) is being co-produced by the Hughes Brothers who are known for their creative productions including the show It and the Hughes Brothers Christmas Show. An adversity transcended to a miracle when the siblings mother, Felicia Cole, was left in a coma after a life-threatening car accident. The children decided they would sing at their mother's bedside believing that she would recognize their voices. Day after day, they sang uplifting songs, never losing faith in God that their mom would recover. God was faithful to answer their prayers and Felicia came out of the coma after eight months. Their mom’s recovery prompted Voices of Glory to reach out to encourage others by singing at nursing homes, hospitals, and church gatherings. Encouragement from friends and family paid off in a huge way when Voices of Glory performed on national television and was selected as finalist in season 4 of NBC's hit TV show America's Got Talent. Since that time, they have performed before a crowd of 18,000 at the World Famous Madison Square Garden, performed at the 2010 Inspirational County Music Awards, the GMA Dove Awards and made numerous TV appearances. Most recently Voices of Glory were featured in the Andy William's Christmas Show. AYO will run through December in Branson. For ticket information and show times, call 417-334-0076 or browse
HughesBrothersTheatre.com
April 2013
Will We Recognize Friends in Heaven? by Timothy J. Demy and Thomas Ice
Will we have personal identity in heaven? Some religions teach that after death the soul of an individual merges with an impersonal Supreme Soul. However, the Bible teaches that there is and always will be—even in heaven— a distinct difference between human beings and God, who is infinite, personal, just, and loving. There will be personal identity in heaven. Jesus, in His resurrected body, ascended physically to heaven and will return in the same recognizable manner (Acts 1:9–11; Titus 2:13). Christians also will receive resurrection bodies that will be fully and completely transformed from what they were physically in this life (1 Cor. 15:12–57). Christian theology teaches that even those whose physical bodies have been destroyed by trauma or cremated will receive a perfect resurrection body.
www.OzarksChristianNews.com When a Christian dies, he or she is consciously and immediately in the presence of Jesus Christ, our Savior in heaven (Luke 23:43; 2 Cor. 5:8). Although our bodies remain in the grave, our souls are immediately in God’s presence, where we are conscious and awaiting resurrected bodies that will be attained at the rapture when Christ returns (1 Thess. 4:15–17; 1 John 3:2). Death does not eradicate identity. Will we be able to recognize friends, loved ones, and others in heaven? When we get to heaven, we will clearly recognize others. When He was in His resurrection body, Jesus was clearly and readily recognized (except when He chose to conceal it when talking with the two on the road to Emmaus). In this same manner, we will be known and recognized by each other in heaven. We will
Jesus Was Homeless Hires Community Relations Manager Branson, MO - February 12, 2013 - Jesus Was Homeless announces that Ashley Lauer has joined the non-profit to further develop community relations. Lauer brings to the organization a wealth of both management and ministry experience and has a special passion for the Jesus Was Homeless ministry where she has been a dedicated volunteer for the past two years. Lauer will assist Jesus Was Homeless by sharing its mission, accomplishments, and vision for the future in our community. As our first employee she will be the main contact for those individuals served by Jesus Was Homeless, as well as those who are serving alongside and partnering with Jesus Was Homeless.
not be nameless and faceless souls without identities. Rather, we will maintain our current identities but in resurrected and glorified bodies that have no infirmities or faults. At the Last Supper, Jesus promised the disciples that in the millennial kingdom and in heaven they would all drink the fruit of the vine together again as they did that evening (Matt. 8:11; Luke 22:17–18). John MacArthur writes: All the redeemed will maintain their identity forever, but in a perfected form. We will be able to have fellowship with Enoch, Noah, Abraham, Jacob, Samuel, Moses, Joshua, Esther, Elijah, Elisha, Isaiah, Daniel, Ezekiel, David, Peter, Barnabas, Paul, or any of the saints we choose. Remember that Moses and Elijah appeared with Christ on the Mount of Transfiguration. Even though they died centuries before, they still maintained a clear identity (Matt. 17:3). Moreover, Peter, James, and John evidently recognized them (v. 4)—which implies that we will somehow be able to recognize people we’ve never even seen before. For that to be possible, we must all retain our individual identities, not turn
"We look forward to Ashley taking on this role at Jesus Was Homeless. Her passion and experience are just what we need to be able to continue to expand our reach and increase our impact on the lives of those we serve," said Bryan Stallings, founder and Executive Director of Jesus Was Homeless. "We are so excited about the opportunities to serve that have been placed before us, and we know that Ashley's God-given gifts will be put to great use in our organization." Jesus Was Homeless was founded in 2008 by Bryan and Amy Stallings. What began with the coordination of a Thanksgiving Day Meal for the area's hungry has now expanded to include weekly
Page 9 into some sort of generic beings. The recognition, awareness, and knowledge of others will be enhanced rather than diminished or erased in heaven. Bible scholar Daniel Lockwood observes: Our resurrection bodies are not merely immortal duplicates of our present ones. Consider Paul’s analogy of the wheat seed (1 Cor. 15:35–38). A mortal body is like the seed, while an immortal body is like the full-grown plant. Both are physical, with an intrinsic continuity between the two. But what a difference between the seed and the plant in appearance, in attribute, and in potential! If we presently have the capacity to recognize our loves ones, that ability will be magnified, not lessened, in the immortal state. What the Bible does not tell us are the details of the resurrected and immortal body in heaven. Questions such as appearance of age and other attributes remain unanswered. Copyright 2011 Timothy J. Demy and Thomas Ice • Used by permission. All rights reserved.
meal delivery to those living in extendedstay motels, Sunday church services at Gateway Branson-"a church for people who don't like church", Life Support discipleship groups, monthly community service projects, a bike program, and more planned for the future. "When God laid it upon our hearts that we needed to 'do something' and that it had to have a feel of 'community' around it, we had no idea what God had in store," said Stallings. "We know that He never intended it to be only about the food, but more about developing relationships where we can show our fellow neighbors love, care, and compassion. We have had the privilege of watching God transform lives right before our lives." For more information about Jesus Was Homeless, please visit www.jesuswashomeless.org or contact Ashley Lauer at ashley@jesuswashomeless.org
Agape Life Fellowship A Word of Faith Church (non-denominational) 6185 W. St. Hwy 266 Springfield, MO
(417) 831-2333 Sun. Services 10 am & 6 pm Wed. Bible Study 6:30 pm
Pastor Twila N. Bridges
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Did you know the Ozarks Christian News has subscribers in 11 differnt states? That is just the printed edition. The online edition covers the whole country. (according to the unique IDs as seen on Constant Contact)
If I were President
P i e rc e A r ro w ’s J a r re tt Doughe r ty Jarrett’s always loved to laugh and to make people laugh. Of course, he was the class clown in school. At the age of 23, he was the drummer for one of the best southern gospel groups in the country, Jeff and Sheri Easter, and then later he joined the McGruders. In 1995 Jarrett moved to Branson, which is only an hour from his hometown, Ava, Missouri. For six years, he played the drums and did comedy for Barbara Fairchild. Just before joining the Pierce Arrow Theater, he was with Sons of the Pioneers. “Just when I thought it couldn’t get any better, Dan Britton, Pierce Arrow’s owner and producer, asked if I would like to join the family as the new comedian. It was an amazing opportunity to be welcomed into Branson’s hottest show. To me, there is no greater city than Branson to live in and raise children in. I love life and enjoy livin’ every day here with my boy Dillon. Branson stands for patriotism and wholesomeness, the American way. What a great country we live in. I thank my lucky stars everyday that I get to come to work and entertain such wonderful fans. I believe laughter is the best medicine a person can have. So even if you are sick, come to Branson and see the Pierce Arrow Show, and me. I promise, you’ll either get well or ‘Die Laughin’!”
BIG GULP!
Can’t we talk about something other than religion for a change?
by John Sacoulas, editor-OCN Here is my monthly griping and yes, it would help balance the deficit and turn the country around.
Yeah, I get Mayor Bloomberg’s frustration with obesity in his city. However, most folks believe that passing laws against large sugary drinks is absurd. From the right they cry, “Nanny State!” and some other choice words for an over reaching politician like Bloomberg. Yet... if America wants to truly reign in medical entitlements to those who have no regard for their health and are completely content with letting their neighbors (taxpayers) pick up the bill... I noticed that diet soft drinks were exempt from the Mayor’s hit list, but the statistics on the cancer-causing properties of a lifetime consumptions of artificial sweetners was totally ignored.
April 2013 I qualify for Health care from Faith Community Health. It has been a huge blessing to me and a stark realization as why health care assistance should remain in the private sector and not in the hands of an ever burgeoning government. It seems that food stamps are doled out to recipients for a carte blanche choice of groceries. While Food stamps prohibit tobacco and alcohol, they are allowed Twinkies and every sort of junk food imaginable. The only thing I would do as president regarding food stamps would be to limit it to meat, vegetables, fruit and nuts. Faith Community Health partners with the YMCA to adopt an exercise program with the health care that they provide. There is an accountability with this charitable service! There is none with Uncle Sam. Okay, I admit, on this topic I do not have definitive answers. I do know you cannot legislate moderation. Send me your ideas and I will consider you for my cabinet.
April 2013
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April 2013
Micah (Battle of the Mind): by Patrick Edmonds
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Performing April 18 through May 18, 2013 Ever faced a decision that seemed to literally give you a headache? Well, if you only knew what your mind was going through, you’d understand. Travel with Micah as he gets the chance to watch his mind at work. You’ll get to meet the characters that live there as they sing and dance their way into your heart, and help Micah make the most important decision of his life. It’s going to be fun getting to know Micah. www.sgtheatre.com Announce your next event for FREE at:
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Crossword Answers Pg. 26
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Ask the Rabbi has been a Jewish believer in the Messiah Yeshua since 1978. He was born in New York City, and raised in the Jewish heritage and became a prodigal son. In the 60's, Jeremy co-founded the rock group, "The Vagrants," and later went solo and recorded two solo albums through RCA Records. This success led him into trappings of a typical rock star: heavy use of various drugs and plunging into wild parties and illicit affairs. In 1978, after years of an excessive lifestyle and surviving several drug over doses and near death experiences, Jeremy had a dramatic deliverance and was "born again" after hanging on the cross in front of 4,000 people acting in the Great Passion Play in Eureka Springs, Arkansas. His life changed dramatically and he has used his musical ability for the Lord since then. Jeremy was ordained into the ministry in 1986. He is an established songwriter and has recorded ten albums. Many of Jeremy's songs are being used for praise and worship
Jeremy Storch
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Meeting at Branson Hills Ministry Center 256 Church Road, Branson, MO 65616 417.334.7373, www.TheTabernacleinBranson.com
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in congregations all around the world, especially in the U.S., Israel, Europe and Latin America. Jeremy has been a guest on national television programs and answers questions about the Hebrew roots of the Christian faith through his daily radio teaching program, "Ask the Rabbi." Jeremy, his wife Brenda, and their youngest son live in Branson, Missouri, where he is the Rabbi, Cantor and worship leader of The Tabernacle, a rapidly growing Messianic Jewish congregation. He also ministers in other congregations by giving musical concerts, leading praise and worship, teaching on the Biblical Jewish roots of Christianity, and sharing his dynamic testimony. To contact Jeremy for ministry in your congregation, for a radio or television interview or other special event, or for information on his albums or teachings, please call or email: Tabernacle of Praise, Branson, MO ~ Phone: 417-334-7373 Email: info@JeremyStorch.org ~ Website: www.JeremyStorch.org Rabbi Jeremy Storch is the Rabbi, Cantor and Worship leader of The Tabernacle, Branson, Missouri’s Messianic Jewish congregation. For more information on the Biblical Hebrew roots of Christianity, visit:
TheTabernacleInBranson.com
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Come chew the fat! Meet some of the OCN staff in April. Every Wednesday night at 5:30 pm at the White River Grille ( see ad below) in Rockaway Beach for their great taco special... just $1.29 each for the best taco or burrito you ever had! We can’t wait to meet you!
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Body and Soul EXPO
April 2013
Your Outside and Inside...
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Saturday-August 3, 2013 in Beautiful Rockaway Beach
Call (417) 353-7598 0r (417) 336-3636 FREE Admission editor@OzarksChristianNews.com Paddle Boarding Great Concessions Father & Son Tri-athalon Allen Asbury Non Stop LIVE Gospel Music Sponsored by: Door Prizes Every 15 Minutes
Reserving booths now for vendors and ministries!
Pierce Arrow’s Scot t Fra ker Scott, a southwest Missouri native, grew up in Niangua, MO. In college, he performed with the Missouri State University Touring Choir and later toured with the accapella group The Wing Tips, which made numerous national television appearances including: The Today Show, Good Morning America, and the CBS Morning program. Scott also performed with Chuck Berry, Jerry Lee Lewis and Frankie Avalon, and even got to sing for former President George Bush. Scott would later leave the Wingtips to join Chosen Few, a gospel quartet at Silver Dollar City, where they remained until 2001. Scott is a licensed minister out of Park Crest Baptist Church in Springfield, MO and continues to preach and speak across the US. Scott is a father of four and is married to his high school sweetheart Marcy. Scott officially joined Pierce Arrow in 2010.
C.J. Newsom
April 2013
New Pope Must Deal With Divided Church in United States by MARY WISNIEWSKI/REUTERS ope Francis will face a divided church in the United States, with the faithful at odds over issues like contraception, same-sex marriage and married priests.
P
Jorge Mario Bergoglio of Argentina was chosen to lead the Roman Catholic Church on Wednesday. He took the name Pope Francis. "Intense prayer from all around the world surrounded the election of Pope Francis I," Cardinal Timothy Dolan of New York, president of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops, said in a statement. "The bishops of the United States thank God for the guidance of the Holy Spirit and the inspired choice of the College of Cardinals."
www.OzarksChristianNews.com Donna Doucette, executive director of Voice of the Faithful, a group of lay Catholics that formed in 2002 in reaction to the clergy sex scandals, said she had mixed opinions about Pope Francis, who is not known to be a liberal. "We are definitely waiting to see," Doucette said. "It remains to be seen whether he is a person of the 21st century or the 17th century." National polls also show continuing anger over the clergy sexual abuse scandal in the United States, which has resulted in the bankruptcies of prominent archdioceses and cost the Church in America an estimated $3 billion in settlements. A Reuters/Ipsos poll conducted over the past week showed that most American Catholics name the scandal as the biggest problem facing the Church.
Americans that identify themselves About 25 perIn the United States, the as Catholic. cent of U.S. resresults of November's presidential election highlighted the divide between Catholics who want the Church to modernize and those who favor its traditional ways. U.S. Catholic bishops pushed hard against policies favoring gay marriage and contraception, warning of the "intrinsic evils" of the Democratic platform. But post-election polling showed that most U.S. Catholics favored Democratic President Barack Obama. Forty-six percent of Catholics surveyed said the new pontiff should "move in new directions," while 51 percent say he should "maintain traditional positions," according to a Pew Research Center poll conducted last month.
idents are Roman Catholic, but that number has been buoyed by a continuing influx of Hispanic immigrants. Lapsed Catholics have become the nation's second largest religious classification, after Catholics, representing 10 percent of U.S. residents, according to the Pew Forum on Religion & Public Life. A Chicago woman who calls herself a "recovering Catholic," said she left the Church because she finds its views "too archaic" on homosexuality, birth control and women's ordination. "It made me sad to be in an organization that says love your neighbor, but not if your neighbor is any of these things,"
The ABC’s of Salvation ADMIT - you are a sinner - Roman 3:10, 23, 5:3 & 6:23 BELIEVE - in Jesus - John 3:16 CONFESS - Jesus is your Lord - Romans 10:9 & 10
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said Barbara Richter, 27, a science teacher with the Chicago Public Schools. Even those who continue to identify as Catholics find themselves at odds with some Church teachings, particularly on the subject of contraception. A 2012 Gallup poll found that 82 percent of U.S. Catholics found birth control morally acceptable, even though it is prohibited by the Church. Most U.S. Catholics surveyed, 54 percent, also support gay marriage, compared to 47 percent of all Americans, according to a Quinnipiac University poll released this month. Also, 58 percent of Catholics think it would be good if priests could marry, compared with 35 percent who disagree, according to a Pew Forum poll. Among Catholics who said they attend Mass weekly, 46 percent said priests should not allowed to marry, while 43 percent objected. Some U.S. Catholics see the increasing traditionalism of the Church as a positive development and a source of strength. Terry Sullivan, a parishioner at St. John Cantius in Chicago, which has regular Latin Masses, believes there is "so much good going on in the Church right now." "We live in a culture that's ailing," said Sullivan, 57. "The Church is here to heal it, not to accommodate the disease." She said on issues like abortion, "the Church is right to hold firm."
"President Obama is considered to be a good politician," "Which is like saying Bernie Madoff was a good salesmen. The difference being, the president is using our money." -Sarah Palin Do you like this newspaper? If you tell your friends and try out our sponsors we can keep ‘em coming!
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Do Not Withhold Sex ...in a Marriage by Lorraine Sacoulas, Publisher OCN (*Disclaimer: this article is directed toward married women. Husbands will be enlightened. And for the teen that is eager to get there, be blessed by this but wait your due time. This is not professional marriage counseling, and cannot discuss cases such as abuse or physical deficiency.) In the past week alone, I have seen two secular television shows that allude to, what I believe to be, a problem in modern thought. That 70's Show has a scene where a daughter seeks advice from her mother. Donna (who is portrayed as an intelligent, independent girl with a good head on her shoulders) says to her mother Midge (shown to be a beautiful, ditzy blond), "Mom, is it wrong to hold back in order to win an argument?" "What do you mean?" "Well, do you ever not give Dad sex in order to get your way?" "You mean like to get him to finally paint my bathroom? You can do that?" "Um, yeah, but don't you think it's wrong?" "Who cares?! I'm finally going to get my bathroom painted!" I know this kind of thinking isn't rare, at least on television. It seems that's a popular thought, only with a comedic spin. But once you find yourself in a marriage (that for some reason changes every dynamic of the rela-
A Little Over a Lifetime by Max Lucado Will I learn what God intends?
www.OzarksChristianNews.com tionship), it's a scary thing. When we were newlyweds, I cannot believe the fear that encroached on me, making me and my husband miserable at times. If I communicated my fear, he felt he wasn't doing good enough (guys are all about a job well done). The results: a consistent feeling that I needed to manipulate him somehow (even though I never acted on that feeling.) How am I ever going to get my emotional needs met if we can't speak about them? I hate manipulation. It is the unhealthiest form of relationship, demeaning and draining. How can there ever be trust with a manipulator? Relationships built on openness and honesty are exactly what women need. Sacrificing that for a shortcut to get your way will seriously damage your husband. Starting with respect may take longer for you to receive the type of relationship you desire, but the man in your life will take notice and appreciate you meeting his needs. Relationships are not about manipulation and always involve maintenance. Be as open as you can while protecting your own heart. (See page 8 ladies, this advice works well for you, too). I was loyal to my husband, never ceasing. He saw me as being selfless. He learned to trust me, and he began coming to me asking what he could do for me. Sex for men is completely emotional; it's their heartstrings. It's a form of communication that speaks, "You are more important
is not the man who hears and forgets. He puts that law into practice and wins true happiness.” (James 1:25).
If I listen, I will. A little girl returned from her first day at school. Her mom asked, “Did you learn anything?” “I guess not,” the girl responded. “I have to go back tomorrow and the next day and the next day. . .”
The Bible is not a newspaper to be skimmed but rather a mine to be quarried. Proverbs 2:4 says to “search for it like silver, and hunt for it like hidden treasure.”
Such is the case with learning. And such is the case with Bible study.
And we need to do it today, and the next day, and the next….
Understanding comes a little at a time over a lifetime. James said: “The man who looks into the perfect law, the law of liberty, and makes a habit of doing so
From Just Like Jesus. Listen to UpWords with Max Lucado at:
OnePlace.com
than anything else in the world." He feels loved and desired (much like how talking with him makes us feel). Sex also gives him incredible confidence! If you want your man to succeed, give him fulfilling sex. He will bring home his love and appreciation. You will receive the relationship and closeness you desire. For more depth on men's emotional needs when it comes to sex, check out Shanti's For Women Only. Get recharged on your relationship maintenance!
April 2013 P i e rc e A r ro w ’s
Dan Britton Born on January 12, 1958 in Bloomfield, Indiana, he was raised on a farm, the same one his parents still call home, along with two sisters and three brothers. It was a musical family, frequently singing at local events and at church. After high school, Dan and his brothers began touring up north where they became the top draw in many casinos and show rooms.
Sacoulas’ bio includes a new husband herself. She has a bachelor's degree in Philosophy/Religion, and sat in numerous marital classes/seminars. She observes that the moralistically broken society is from a lack of stabitly within the framework of the home. It's tragic that this framework is difficult to maintain. Please write in with personal stories, comments, or disagreements so that this is a community column with real topics to pursue.Occasionaly guest writers will write the column.
Going on a Mission at Home MBCH Children and Family Ministries (an affiliate of Missouri Baptist Children’s Home) is seeking Christians willing to serve God by supplying foster care for teens. The Therapeutic Foster Care ministry provides a daily rate of pay that allows one foster parent to remain at home and care for the child. Training and licensing is provided for the foster parents at no cost. You can make a difference in the life of a hurting child by “Going on Mission at Home”.For more information about becoming a licensed foster parent, call
(417) 831-2342 or visit:
www.mbch.org
April 2013
The Transformation of Rockaway Beach by John G. Sacoulas, managing editor hen the Ozarks Christian News moved its offices to Rockaway Beach last month, we received some pretty mixed reactions. Many of them were incredulous. It seems that quite a few folks have a bias against an old reputation that Rockaway Beach developed over the years
W
My wife and I researched the history of this quaint fishing resort and discovered it has quite a rich past. Rockaway Beach was founded in 1917 and was the first Resort Community west of the Mississippi River dedicated to the vacationer. The town was "rockin." March through mid-November with families, honeymooners, school groups and even a bootlegger or two. It
www.OzarksChristianNews.com appeared and many resort owners moved on to other opportunities. The town became neglected and forgotten, leaving those that remained with little resources. There was a brief moment a few years back that an effort of a small group of individuals tried unsuccessfully to bring riverboat casino gambling to Rockaway Beach. That failure most certainly “took the wind out of many sails” so to speak. With that infamous dream all but forgotten I want to address the poor image of its past. A number of years ago, there was a nefarious amount of drug related crime in the area that also includes Merriam Woods. Through the great job that former mayor Larry Kline and other city leaders performed, Rockaway Beach can now boast of a lower crime rate per capita than that of Branson or Springfield! However, there remains a shadowy image of the past that is slowly being eradicated by sharing with the greater area of the real facts. For instance, one critical observation was, “There’s nothing but bars there!”
In fact, my first hunt for bars really only produced one. La Pizza Cellar has alcohol but in the way of Olive Garden or Fridays or any place that offers it next to some pretty awesome food. I found the Dockside Pub. Pubs are where you can Billboard that greets visitors coming in to town actually take your family to because they are clean, brightis documented that Presidents Harry ly lit and quite safe. The Truman and Theodore Roosevelt spent White River Grille is alcohol time in Rockaway Beach vacationing. and smoke free (Some pretty With the onset of progress through the awesome food there too). I years, however, Rockaway Beach is now don’t count the real bar of the located between Tablerock and American Vets Hall (if anyPowersite Dams. The water temperature body needs a drink, it would dropped to a cool 55 - 58 degrees which be those guys) in which I did not coincide with most water sports encourage you go in and have and activities. Soon the sandy beach dis-
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a ginger ale (if you don’t imbibe) just to have an opportunity to learn more about some folks that have served our country. Some local churches like Bridge of Faith have made a huge impact for the good of the community as well. So the real live, honest to smokey, dimly lit bar was called the Upperdeck Lounge. Now, that’s a good place to meet some interesting folks. This joint gives the bikers and others passing through a place to relax without pretense. Rockaway Beach also boasts the second best water quality in the entire state of Missouri! I can attest that I drink it straight from the tap and really enjoy the cold, crisp flavor. After several years, an influx of new The beautiful fishing pier
now, The Body and Soul Expo slated for August 3rd will be a fun event for the whole family, a new addition to making memories in Rockaway Beach. The city leaders vow to have Rockaway Beach remain an affordable family-oriented community supported by a vibrant and historic tourism, a recreation business sector, and a revitalized lakefront. The real estate is a bargain and the people are extra friendly. So, come on over and visit us, we’d love to have you!
business owners began working on plans We invite you you to come chew the fat! to rejuvenate Rockaway Beach. It was Meet some of the OCN staff in April. Every Wednesday a long process, but night at 5:30 pm at with a lot of effort the White River and perseverance, Grille (see ad on the rebuilding page 13) in process began and Rockaway Beach continues today. for their great taco The hydroplane special... just races and fourth of $1.29 each for the July celebrations best taco or burrito have been a great you ever had! We delight to families can’t wait to meet in the past. And “Hillbilly Beach” you!
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April 2013
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WOMEN STILL WANT MARRIAGE – MEN, NOT SO editor’s note: This article is a secular perspective on the matter. “AWD” is not a Christian and Susan Venker uses a secular approach but experiences a certain consequence of the culture just the same. Maybe the rain falls on the just and the unjust after all... (edited for crude words but not his frustrations) written by: AWD WHO NEEDS THIS? Fox News posted an article today about how American women have become so obnoxious and power-hungry that men no longer want to marry. AWD has been saying this for four years. Too many American women are monsters! And who wants to be married to a monster who will make your life miserable and then wreck your life in divorce. Apparently, fewer American males each year! The article, titled “The War on Men” by Susan Venker says: “As the author of three books on the American family and its intersection with pop culture, I’ve spent thirteen years examining social agendas as they pertain to sex, parenting, and gender roles. During this time, I’ve spoken with hundreds, if not thousands, of men and women. And in doing so, I’ve accidentally stumbled upon a subculture of men who’ve told me, in no uncertain terms, that they’re never getting married. When I ask them why, the answer is always the same. “Women aren’t women anymore.” She’s right. Many American women are now men. They’ve been trained their entire lives to dislike and mistreat men. Traditional American gender roles have been ridiculed since the 70's and the advent of the feminist movement. Little girls go to school wearing “Boys are Stupid” t shirts and it’s all so funny. A little boy wearing a shirt disparaging females would be disciplined. Girls are
taught to seek a career instead of motherhood and that white men are the root cause of everything wrong in the world. Of course, the government has helped create this monster as it now takes at least one working parent to pay taxes. So women seek their careers at the expense of family and then wonder why they’re alone and angry at 50. Career ladies, that cool BMW won’t come visit you when you’re old. And who among us hasn’t had a female boss that was a total witch? I have. For some reason, many women believe they have to be total witches to be successful in the workplace. Venker continues: “To say gender relations have changed dramatically is an understatement. Ever since the sexual revolution, there has been a profound overhaul in the way men and women interact. Men haven’t changed much – they had no revolution that demanded it – but women have changed dramatically. In a nutshell, women are angry. They’re also defensive, though often unknowingly. That’s because they’ve been raised to think of men as the enemy. Armed with this new attitude, women pushed men off their pedestal (women had their own pedestal, but feminists convinced them otherwise) and climbed up to take what they were taught to believe was rightfully theirs.”
pid to light a grill without blowing himself up. Pop culture has made the wife or mom the authority figure while the father or man is the butt of jokes. Young men have been warned by their fathers or seen with their own eyes the disparity of divorce courts. Most men are ruined for life after the marriage ends. They will have zero chance at gaining custody of their children and will be saddled by huge child support payments and possibly alimony for years. Even if they are not at fault for the marriage ending. Venker hits it on the head with this: “It is precisely this dynamic – women good/men bad – that has destroyed the relationship between the sexes. Yet somehow, men are still to blame when love goes awry. Heck, men have been to blame since feminists first took to the streets in the 1970s. But what if the dearth of good men, and ongoing battle of the sexes, is – hold on to your seats – women’s fault?”
She’s right! Too many American women are just plain mean-spirited. They are not feminine and kind and cannot be satisfied. They are angry because the feminist teachings they’ve been force fed are lies. They have been taught they are always right and the man is always wrong. No matter what. What a recipe for disaster…for the man!
You’ll never hear that in the media. All the articles and books (and television programs, for that matter) put women front and center, while men and children sit in the back seat. But after decades of browbeating the American male, men are tired. Tired of being told there’s something fundamentally wrong with them. Tired of being told that if women aren’t happy, it’s men’s fault.
The media also makes fathers and men look like morons. Men smart enough to provide nice homes in TV programs and commercials are also shown to be too stu-
Any guy who has been married to one of these monster women never forgets and never goes back to living the horrible roller-coaster of misery he once suffered.
Many married men simply give up trying to please their wives as they simply cannot be pleased! If they have children, they hand over their manhood and live a quiet life of desperation. If they divorce, they never go back to a woman who will wreck his life. AWD has friends who cannot go to the bathroom without permission from their wives. We even sadly joke about it. But they have surrendered their manhood long ago and aren’t willing to go to war to get it back. AWD understands because I once lived that horrible life. As I drove away from my home and children (moving out from my children was the single hardest thing I ever have done and it pains me greatly to this day) to escape the misery, I made a silent promise to myself that I have kept to this day: “I will never ever again let a woman kick my butt.” I’m not a bad man. In fact, I’m better than a lot and a good dad to my children. I h a v e been alone and I have been miserable. I have never been alone and miserable. Young men are confused as to who they are these days. I believe that’s why we see so many metrosexual types and girly men among our youth. They don’t know what it is to be men. They want to be what they have been told to be in modern culture…friends of women. They want to please women and they’ve been told they must be feminine, dress like fruitcakes and not do any of the things normally associated with traditional
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April 2013
O MUCH!
www.Twitter.com/OCNEditor men’s linear career goals – they need men to pick up the slack at the office – in order to live the balanced life they seek.
American men to be acceptable to So if men today are slackers, and if females. They’ve been told they and their they’re retreating from marriage en dads are stupid idiots their entire lives and masse, women should look in the mirror believe it. They’ve been blamed for every and ask themselves what role they’ve wrong in the world being white males. played to bring about this transforThey’ve probably seen their mation. mothers rule the roost and the It’s all so unfordad capitulate rather than Fortunately, there is risk elevating the anger good news: tunate – for women, of his insufferable women have the not men. Feminism serves power to turn wife. everything men very well: they can One of the worst sayaround. All ings in the American have sex at hello and even they have to do lexicon is “if mama’s live with their girlfriends is surrender to not happy, nobody’s their nature – happy.” Why should with no responsibilities their femininity – mama have the control of and let men surrenwhatsoever. making everyone’s lives der to theirs. miserable because she’s just an insufferable, controlling, angry If they do, marriageable men witch? Forget that! Who needs it? Not the will come out of the woodwork. man nor the kids. American women have bought the false The female monsters created by American propaganda of liberal feminists. And like culture have young men avoiding mar- all things liberal, it destroys everything riage and divorced men looking overseas and women are suffering. Women aren’t to find their next wives. They look for meant to be men and men aren’t meant to women who are comfortable being be women. But liberal claptrap philosowomen. Latin and Asian women are more phy tells us that is exactly the way to find like our mothers. They care for their hus- happiness. Men are oppressors and bands and family and don’t generally women must take control. But most men want to work outside of the home. There aren’t oppressors, they are only looking are clear lines of responsibility in the fam- for a good, kind mate who will treat them ily and everyone plays their roles. It with kindness, love and respect. worked for our parents, it seems to work for us. Unless a young man has a religious belief about not having sex outside of marriage Venker finishes with: or is determined to have children, I would “It’s all so unfortunate – for women, not not recommend him getting married to an men. Feminism serves men very well: American woman unless she is drastically they can have sex at hello and even live different from her American female monwith their girlfriends with no responsibili- ster sisters. It simply isn’t worth the risk. ties whatsoever. If they must marry, I recommend waiting to see if his wife turns into a monster It’s the women who lose. Not only are before having children. they saddled with the consequences of sex, by dismissing male I know there are good girls and women nature they’re forever who have not fallen to the liberal feminist seeking a balanced life. lies. But only because of good parenting The fact is, women need have they avoided that pit of misery. I also
realize a lot of women have to work to make ends meet and I do not include you in this commentary if you have a good man and treat him with love and respect. But you know exactly the type of woman I am criticizing here. I’m also not saying there aren’t bad men. There are plenty. But it’s sad that so many good men and fathers are so mistreated by mean, angry women in this country. It’s no wonder why men avoid marriage!” SUZANNE VENKER is a vice president at The Center for Marriage Policy and the author of four books, including How to Choose a Husband (And Make Peace With Marriage) (February 2013), The War on Men (February 2013, eBook only), The Flipside of Feminism (2011), and 7 Myths of Working Mothers (2004). Suzanne has written extensively about politics, parenting, and the influence of feminism on
Page 19 American society, serving as a frequent contributor to FoxNews.com and The Huffington Post. This Midwest-born, East Coast-educated writer is no stranger to controversy. Her first book, 7 Myths of Working Mothers, argues that young children and demanding careers are incompatible. The Flipside of Feminism, released in 2011, is an explosive account of the damage left in the wake of the feminist movement. Her eBook original, The War on Men, is a concise, authoritative look at the myth of gender equality. And her latest release, How to Choose a Husband (And Make Peace with Marriage), takes a hard look at the sexual revolution and encourages women to reject the cultural script they’ve been sold about love, sex, men and marriage. Suzanne lives in St. Louis, MO, with her husband, their two children, Grandma, and their dog Chewy.
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www.OzarksChristianNews.com
April 2013
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Luke Menard was born and raised in Crawfordsville, IN. He started playing the violin at age 5 and that is when Luke’s love of music began. He graduated from Millikin University in Decatur, Illinois where he was heavily involved in music. Upon graduation, he formed and toured with the nationally acclaimed acapella group Chapter 6 for 10 years. In 2008, Luke was seen on the Fox hit televison show American Idol as one of the top 8 guys. Upon elimination, he was diagnosed with Hodgkins Lymphoma. After several rounds of chemo and radiation Luke is now cancer free. His story was featured on E! Entertainment and Extra. In July of 2011 Luke became a singer in Branson’s long successful running show Pierce Arrow where he currently sings tenor in the quartet. Luke and his wife, Lara, have a daughter named Hope and reside in Branson, MO.
April 2013
‘Bachelor’ Sean Lowe’s Faith and Prayer Highlighted in Season Finale by GINA MEEKS early 10 million people tuned in to watch Sean Lowe propose to either Catherine Giudici or Lindsay Yenter (Giudici was the lucky gal) on The Bachelor last month. In addition to love and heartbreak, those viewers also saw several references to prayer. The bachelor closed out the the season the same way he opened it—with family and prayer. Lowe, 29, who was previously on The Bachelorette, is a proud Christian, and has even called himself a “born-again virgin.” Though he's had sex in the past, he recommit-
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Sean Lowe & Catherine Giudici ted to his faith and has taken a vow of celibacy until marriage. “I believe what the Bible says, basically to sum it up,” he said during a recent conference call. His parents, Jay and Sherry Lowe, are also Christians. Sean's dad told Yenter that he and his wife have prayed “every day since he was born” for Sean's future wife. In his speech to Yenter, Lowe said, “I've been so confused and I've been searching for clarity and praying for clarity and I think I've finally gotten it.” Sean “wants to propose once, be married once and live a faithful family life, like his parents, who have had a loving 35-year union,” his bio on ABC's website says. “He wants to be the patriarch of a family that is centered on faith, love and laughter.” The Texas native, who is part of a nondenominational Christian church, said in the
www.OzarksChristianNews.com conference call that his faith community provided a lot of support to him during his time on The Bachelor. He added that if the ratings were up this season because of his wholesome nature and commitment to God, “I think that's a great thing. There needs to be more of that on television.” Lowe's fiancee, Catherine Giudici, who has started attending a non-denominational Christian church in suburban Seattle, said she grew up learning about “different religions” and has always believed in God. She said she was “excited to learn about Christianity and be a believer.” She added, “It's something that is important to our future and our family.” In a separate conference call, runner-up Lindsay Yenter said she relied on prayer to help her get through the heartbreak after Sean sent her home. “I couldn't have gone through this situation without praying about it,” she noted. “I believe Christ gave me a lot of confidence and nonjealousy issues. … It was hard and a different situation but all in all I think it was for the best intentions and I don't think it's wrong.” Though some may have criticized Lowe for all the smooching he did on the show—including one that reportedly set the Guinness World Record for the longest on-screen kiss—he said he didn't think there was anything wrong with it. “Kissing is just a part of showing affection, it's romantic,” he said. “I don't regret that.” Lowe became a Christian in sixth grade, was a member of The Fellowship of Christian Athletes, and was actively involved in his church's youth group. He was also sharing his faith with fellow contestants on The Bachelorette. “I brought my Bible and my devotional to the show,” he told Priscilla Shirer of Going Beyond Ministries. “I’d sit outside, read Jesus Calling by Sarah Young, and then spend time in the Word. Eventually, I found myself reading the book out loud, and soon enough, five or six guys would sit around and listen to it. “Every day, I’d have guys ask me to borrow the book,” he continued. “I had awesome opportunities to share my faith, and eventually I gave the book to one of the guys because he couldn’t keep his nose out of it.” Lowe and Giudici plan on getting married during a television event, which The Bachelor host Chris Harrison said will likely happen this summer.
In God We Trust By Dee Wampler Congratulations to the City of Buffalo (Mayor Andrew Meade and Board of Aldermen: Wayne Rieschel, Kristie Horn, Jess Stafford, Jim Piper, Larry Hicks, and James Ferrell) in unanimously approving a City Hall display of our National Motto "In God We Trust” which occurred on February 28, 2011. • Our National Motto is on every single coin and bill and it is contained in the final stanza of our National Anthem. • It is displayed in Congress and is a matter of federal law and statute. • God’s name is contained in dozens of national monuments and thousands of state monuments throughout our nation. • The U.S. Supreme Court has backed away from earlier court rulings regarding any total separation of church and state and ordered an "accommodation" between the two. • We pledge allegiance to the United States (in English) and when foreign folks come to our nation and take a sworn oath of citizenship, they should respect our national traditions, culture and history, just as we respect theirs when we visit abroad. Hundreds of cities and counties across America are proudly displaying our national motto. And may God bless America!
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WHAT OUR FOUNDING FATHERS REALLY SAID “In compassion to the imperfection of our internal powers, our all gracious creator, preserver and ruler has been pleased to discover and enforce His laws by a revelation given to us immediately and directly from Himself. This revelation is continued in the holy scriptures. The moral precepts delivered in the sacred oracles from a part of the law of the nature, are of the same origin and of the same obligation, operating universally...the law of nature and the law of revelation are both divine: they flow, though in different channels, from the same adorable source...the object of both is to discover the will of God and both are necessary for the accomplishment of that end.” ~James Wilson, signer of the Constitution
Now you know what our founding fathers really said...
Springfield, MO Attorney Dee Wampler has 50 years trial experience as a Greene County prosecutor and defense attorney.
He is the author of “The Myth of Separation of Church and State.” and “The Trial of Christ: A 21st Century Lawyer Defends Jesus.”
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www.OzarksChristianNews.com doesn't grow on trees, and one of the worst things you can do to your kids is to set them up for a lifetime of unrealistic expectations.
Teaching Your Kids About Money by Dave Ramsey
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lato said, "Let parents bequeath to their children not riches, but the spirit of reverence." That old guy knew what he was talking about. As parents, we're not just responsible for providing food, clothing and shelter for our kids. We're also responsible for teaching them about God and life — and money is a part of life! Unfortunately, most kids aren't taught anything about dealing with money and personal finance. They graduate high school knowing what an amoeba is, but they have no idea how to balance a checkbook. Recently, the Jump$tart Coalition tested high school seniors in the area of personal finance. These kids averaged a grade of F, answering only 48 percent of the questions correctly.
In the Ramsey home, we put our kids on commission at an early age. They each had jobs around the house that were associated with certain dollar amounts. If they did the job, they got paid. If they didn't do the job, they didn't get paid. It was as simple as that! Then, we'd help them divide their money into three different envelopes: spending, saving and giving. We'd teach them to use the money in each one wisely. The concepts of spending and giving help develop problem-solving skills because the goal setting can become pretty detailed, depending on the child. Guiding your kids through this process is crucial because you're laying a foundation for their lives.
Get to work
When it comes to kids and money, I always hear the same questions: When should I start teaching my kids about money? Should I give my kids an allowance? Should I get my teenager a credit card?
Kids need to start learning the virtues of getting a little dirt under their fingernails at a young age. Making kids work does not constitute child abuse. Child abuse is letting them lie around playing video games and munching chips all the time! Just make sure the jobs you give them are age appropriate. Even preschoolers can learn to pick up toys in their rooms or help Mom and Dad do things around the house.
I believe you can successfully begin teaching kids about money before they start school, but please don't wait any later than third grade. Kids need to make an emotional connection between work and money at a young age. If you don't teach them early on about the concepts of spending, saving, giving and working, then you're going to have some major problems later!
From ages 3 to 6, kids need to receive instant recognition for their work. It allows them to make an emotional connection to the work when they get an "Atta boy!" or "Way to go, kiddo!" on the spot. And, I promise, they'll be more willing to help out or do their chores the next time an opportunity rolls around. As they get older, the jobs should get harder and the commissions should pay more.
An allowance?
Credit cards
I hate the whole idea of allowances for kids. After all, what exactly are you making an allowance for? It makes the whole situation sound like welfare. Money
But of course, as soon as you start making money, there's always someone out there trying to take it away. As kids grow up and hit the high school and college
April 2013 years, they become a prime target of credit card companies. And once they walk onto campus — look out! The sidewalks are lined with booths f r o m every
credit card company on the planet. And these companies use every trick in the book to get our kids to sign up for a lifetime of debt and financial irresponsibility. Credit card marketers have done such a thorough job of brainwashing our kids that having a credit card is now seen as a rite of passage into adulthood. Some parents even use the argument that giving their teenager a credit card will teach him to be responsible with money. Give me a break! Parents who do this are introducing a harmful substance — a financially harmful substance — into their kid's lives. Proverbs 22:7 says, "The rich rules over the poor, and the borrower is the slave of the lender" (ESV). So, parents and teens alike must learn to "just say no" when it comes to credit cards!
a sense of accomplishment because they did it. Their little faces will beam, and they'll stick out their chest because of a job well done. Our kids were allowed to help fill out the check register and watch the process of paying bills when they were 10 years old. Sometimes, you can't explain things to kids by just talking. But if they help write out a big number and see $200 going out the door to pay the electric bill, a light goes on in their heads, and they realize, "Wow, that's a lot of money!" I know it made a huge impact on our kids. The next thing we knew, those little rug rats were running all over the house turning out the lights! Just think about how many times you've smacked yourself on the head and wished you'd learned something when you were younger. It could have eliminated lots of mistakes and suffering, right? If your kids grasp this money stuff early on, they'll avoid many of the pitfalls later in life. After all, it's a lot better for little Billy to make a $10 mistake when you're there to help instead of a $10,000 mistake later!
www.DaveRamsey.com
Teachable moments There's an old Native American proverb that goes, "Tell me, and I'll forget. Show me, and I may not remember. Involve me, and I'll understand." Our kids are going to imitate our habits of handling money. Don't just make them work; let them see you working. Better yet, have them work alongside you. Let them know that work is how money is earned. When it comes to saving, spending and giving, let them sit at the table with you when you work on the budget. Show them how you figure out where the money goes and what's most important. Not only will this help them better understand the principles you're trying to teach, but it will also maximize their selfesteem when they take on the task of handling their own money. There will be
Everyone deserves a good meal
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April 2013 continued from front page I knew exactly what she meant—and I’ve pondered her words often, especially since her death. I don’t want to be stupid; I want to finish well. So how can we avoid spiritual stupidity? We can start by avoiding these 10 mistakes that have become common in our movement during the past decade. If you are a minister, or if you aspire to be one, please decide now that you will never copy these behaviors. Take illegal drugs. I know people who never got complete deliverance from their drug habit—and then when the pressures of ministry grew intense they turned to illegal substances to escape. That’s stupid! If you aren’t in control of your actions 100 percent of the time, you have no business in the ministry.
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Reject accountability. The Lone Ranger may have been a great comic book hero, but isolation doesn’t work in real life. Lack of accountability is stupid! If you don’t answer to people smarter than you, you are an accident waiting to happen—and you’re going to hurt God’s people. You have no right to be in authority if you are not under authority.
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Beat or abuse your wife. The Bible says in 1 Peter 3:7 that God will not listen to your prayers if you mistreat your wife. If you are an abuser (and even if you are a master at hiding your sin from others), the Lord will oppose you until you seek help.
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Surround yourself with adoring fans. Years ago, fallen PTL founder Jim Bakker said his biggest mistake was planting “yes men” around him instead of people who had the guts to challenge his bad decisions. If you aren’t willing to invite input—including criticism— from your followers, you are a weak leader headed for disaster.
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Fabricate spiritual gifts to impress others. In our movement there’s a lot of
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www.OzarksChristianNews.com pressure to produce the sensational in order to keep people entertained. But if you stoop so low as to fake a healing, conjure up a false prophecy or push someone to the floor, the Holy Spirit will step aside and let you run the sideshow without His power. It’s stupid to mix strange fire and risk offending God!
manna, angel feathers, heavenly portals and indoor rain clouds. But history has proven that those who make spiritual manifestations a primary focus always get tricked into deception. We will be wise if we keep the main thing the main thing. Focus on Jesus!
Become an egomaniac. In the past 10 years some of Be lenient toward America’s biggest religious stars have sexual sin. In our movement today, we celegone totally loony because of pride. brate the grace message while frowning They require private jets, body guards on anyone who dares to identify forniand personal chefs while maintaining a cation, adultery, homosexuality or cold aloofness from the people they are pornography as sins. If you are casual called to serve. If you let Satan dupe about sexual sin in your own life, or if you into becoming an arrogant ministry you don’t require purity among those diva, you are stupid. Repent, get on the you lead, you are stupid. same level with the people, and start Manipulate Jesus died on the acting like people during cross for you... show Christ instead the offering. you are grateful in of a rock star. Ministers often twist Scriptures and use hypnotic the collection plate! In memory of mind games to raise funds my late friend on Christian television. Mary Ann Nobody challenges their Brown, I pass fraud, so it seems they get on her advice away with it. Be assured to you: that these people will “Please don’t ever get answer to God one day stupid.” Let’s grow up, for their deception. You reject foolishness and aim are stupid if you try to finish well. these tactics in your church. editor’s note: See the article No More Pentecostal Refuse to Popemobiles” on page share power. 36. It is part of the 4 page I meet many minbonus in our online ediisters who have been tion. www.OzarksChristianNews.com leading their churches or organizations J. Lee Grady is the former editor of for 30 years and yet have no succession plan in place. That is dumb! You are not Charisma and the director of The going to live forever. Train the next Mordecai Project generation now so they will be ready to www.themordecaiproject.org lead in your place—and do it before you keel over from a heart attack!
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Teach exotic doctrines rather than the core truths of the Bible. We charismatics tend to feed people a “flavor of the month” in order to satisfy the craving for angelic visitations, thirdheaven visions, gold dust, gold teeth,
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When a man marries a woman, they become one; the trouble starts when they try to decide which one.
Page 23 STEVE MALZBERG, NEWSMAX TV Republican Teddy Turner, the son of media mogul Ted Turner, made news last month when he blamed his father's liberalism on actress Jane Fonda. He made more news recently on NewsMax TV's Steve Malzberg Show saying that CNN is "pretty much to the left" and that he has such a "hard time watching them" he mostly watches Fox HOST: What do you think when you watch CNN? Do you think they’re down the middle? Do you think they’re to the left? What do you think? TEDDY TURNER: I think they’re pretty much to the left. I don’t think there’s any question about that. It’s not MSNBC, but they’re not Fox. So I think they’re, I have a hard time watching them a lot of times. MALZBERG: And what do you think of the revamping. They got a new guy at the helm now, and they’re adding Chris Cuomo, and they’re keeping apparently Piers Morgan, and it doesn’t seem like this guy is going to do anything to make them let’s say a fairer more balanced presentation. TURNER: Well, they may think that they’re fair and balanced already, or that they said, “Well, let’s give up the fair and balanced and we’ll stay to the left and on that niche." I have no idea what their marketing plan is, and I had discussions years ago with the folks and said, “Listen, you know, the left is not the way to go in talk radio or in talk TV because that’s not who’s listening." MALZBERG: Who’d you talk to years ago at CNN? TURNER: Anybody that would listen. MALZBERG: In any capacity other than Ted Jr.? Did you have any capacity there? TURNER: No, no, I worked on and off for CNN and Turner, you know, kind of all my life.
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YAK BAK Y Feed Back from our readers It sounds like J. Lee Grady has succumbed to modern day culture in is article “6 Gender Myths of the Church” as seen in the OCN March edition on page 7. No matter how you slice it, women were not meant to preach in church. Russell L., Springfield, MO ______________________ I loved the article by Jim Daly regarding relationships with your in laws. It is soooo true! (don’t even print my initials or town please...) My in-laws read the OCN every month and they will know who I am. _________________________ Here is $5.00. The Ozarks Christian News is the best bargain in town! I hope others will take advantage of this great offer. Keep up the great work! Kyle, Tulbert, Branson, MO ________________________ I saw another Christian paper hit our area recently. It was interesting but I am not sure what the point of it is. In any event the OCN is a whole lot more inspirational and fun just like your slogan suggests. Love the cartoons. They tell a story in a single frame with amazing clarity. Ken Pauly, Bolivar, MO _______________________ I heard you all moved to Rockaway Beach. Praise God! There is going to be a lot of good things to come of it I am sure. Molly R., Merriam Woods, MO
www.OzarksChristianNews.com Regarding pagan celebrations (March page 34). Thanks for your editorial comments. You are brave for tipping that sacred cow. It just shows Christians are quick to cry foul while all the time they have been just as guilty. How funny it is that we protest the very things we should be getting out of our own lives. Terrence Cabot, Harrison, AR _____________________ I just discovered your paper in my doctor’s waiting room. I certainly do not agree with everything in your paper but I agree with your celebrating the Common Ground and you all are right... the body of Christ is quite diverse!
Christians Dominate ‘American Idol’This Season by CHARLENE ISRAEL/CBN NEWS merican Idol Season 12's Top 10: (Top Row L-R) The Top Ten finalists Angie Miller, Kree Harrison, Janelle Arthur, Devin Velez, Amber Holcomb, Burnell Taylor and Candice Glover, and (Bottom Row L-R) Curtis Finch Jr., Lazaro Arbos and Paul Jolley Season 12 of American Idol has its share
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Karen Browning, Republic, MO _______________________ Why do you report on so many secular celebrities lives? They hardly deserve the recognition when so many of them lead superficial, shallow lives. Thomas G., Tucson, AZ ______________________ Thanks for your free online subscriptions. I love to keep up with the Ozarks. Jack Kellogg, Gary IN ______________________ Regarding page 23 of the OCN March issue: DR. BEN CARSON FOR PRESIDENT! Harry Kline, Kansas City, MO _______________________ Send your letters to the editor to:
editor@ozarkschristiannews.com or mailing address: P.O. Box 336 Rockaway Beach, MO 65740 Letters may be edited for space consideration. Please indicate if your whole name may be used.
Those in the International Community who refuse to put red lines before Iran don’t have a moral right to place a red line before Israel. If the Arabs layed down their arms today, there would be peace in the Middle East. If Israel layed down their arms today, there would be no more Israel.
-Benjamin Netanyahu
of Christian contestants: Eight of the top 10 are Christians. Contestants Candice Glover, Lazaro Arbos, Janelle Arthur, Curtis Finch Jr., Amber Holcolm, Angie Miller, Devin Velez, and Burnell Taylor are all in it to win it. They're also not ashamed to share their faith with the world while they're at it. Angie Miller, who many expect to be crowned winner this year, often tweets about her faith. "Church isn't the only time to worship and hear from/spend time with God. That should happen on an everyday basis," she recently tweeted. Miller became a fan favorite after performing an original worship song called, "You Set Me Free," during the Hollywood auditions. Judges were blown away by the performance. Judge Mariah Carey later said the performance left her "clothed in goose bumps and bathed in tears." Miller also performed a slowed down rendition of "Never Gone" by Season 11 American Idol contestant Colton Dixon.
April 2013 Dixon, who often spoke about his faith while on the show, released a Christian album called A Messenger in January. Chicago native Devin Velez is another standout performer. Several home videos of the 18-year-old singing worship songs are posted on Youtube. After making the top 10 on American Idol Season 12, the smooth crooner performed the song, "Power of One" by Grammy Award-winning artist Israel Houghton. In a tweet Houghton replied, "Wow, man thanks for singing our song. Humbled and honored. And you smashed it!!! Congrats for going through. Take it all bro." Velez's mother, Sandra Liz Lam, was in the audience of the Las Vegas theater when it was revealed her son made it to the finals of the competiton. Idol host Ryan Seacrest invited Lam on stage, where she wrapped her oldest child in a huge hug and shouted, "Hallelujah. Thank You, Jesus. Praise You, Jesus." Velez also tweets about his faith. On Thursday he tweeted, "This is the day the Lord has made so lets REJOICE!" Another tweet read, "I just have to remember why I'm here, and that everything, is in HIS hands." Finalist Curtis Finch Jr., took Idol and America to church and left judges praising God after his rendition of "I Believe I Can Fly." Finch, a gospel singer and worship leader, received a standing ovation from the judges and the audience. Idol Judge Keith Urban was moved by the soul-stirring performance. "Good and light and godly and whole. You have so much hope in you and we need that. Thank you, Curtis," Urban said. "Let's all just say, 'Praise God.' Dude I felt like the competition tonight, it started right here," judge Randy Jackson said. "This is what you do right here." While these contestants are all striving to be the next big star, they appear to be grounded in something bigger than the show or their voices.
April 2013
Recovering the Lost Letter of Jacob by MICHAEL BROWN
Say what? t is high time the English-speaking church recovers the long-lost letter of Jacob. For 500 years, we have wrongly called this the letter of James, despite the fact that the Greek does not say James, but rather Jacob (as in Abraham, Isaac and Jacob), and despite the fact that in every other language, the letter of Jacob is rightly identified as such.
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By calling this the letter of James, and by referring to the apostle James rather than the apostle Jacob (not to mention Jacob the brother of Jesus, also wrongly called James, who led the congregation in Jerusalem), we have produced theological confusion and cut off an important Jewish dimension to the roots of the Christian faith. Consider for a moment that in German or Dutch Bibles, this is the letter of Jakobus, while in French it is Jacques and in Polish, Jakub. Check this out in 50 different languages, and in every one, you will find a variation of Jacob. Even the Spanish name “Santiago” comes from San Diego (Saint Diego, which is also a variant of Jacob). Only our English Bibles say James, completely without justification. (The name was corrupted as it passed from Hebrew to Greek to Latin to English, ultimately morphing into James.) Consider also that when English translators of the Bible saw the name of the patriarch Jacob in verses like Matthew 1:2, they did not translate it to James. Otherwise, we would have had absolutely bizarre statements like, “Abraham was the father of Isaac, and Isaac the father of James, and James the father of Judah and his brothers,” or Jesus would have made reference to “the God of Abraham, Isaac and James” (see Matt. 22:32).
www.OzarksChristianNews.com Yet, when it comes to the apostle Jacob or the letter of Jacob, virtually all English translations—with the primary exception of Messianic Jewish versions—refer to this Jacob as James. Why? Does it sound too Jewish? If so, what do you do with the names of the twelve apostles, as listed in Matthew 10:2-4, which originally sounded like this: “First, Shim‘on, called Kefa, and Andrew [Andrai] his brother, Ya‘akov Ben-Zavdai and Yochanan his brother, Philip [Philippos] and Bar-Talmai, T’oma and Mattityahu the tax-collector, Ya‘akov Bar-Halfai and Taddai, Shim‘on the Zealot, and Y’hudah from K’riot, who betrayed him” (Complete Jewish Bible). To be perfectly clear, I have no problem rendering the Hebrew name Ya‘akov (Iakobus in Greek) with the English name Jacob. In fact, that is the correct English translation. But I have a real problem calling him James. That is not who he was, and that is not how he should be known.
Messiah, to the twelve tribes scattered among the nations: Shalom.” Now what comes to mind?
This is a letter from a Jewish believer in the Messiah to Jewish believers scattered around the world. And notice that one key word: Jewish. The New Testament is a very Jewish book! Let’s take this one step further: The Greek word synagoges, meaning “assembly, meeting place, synagogue,” occurs 56 times in the Greek New Testament, being found most frequently in the Gospels and Acts (53 times), where it is virtually always rendered with “synagogue.” And when you hear that word, you think, “Jewish.”
But there’s one time in our English Bibles where synagoges is not translated “ s y n a ...when it comes to the apostle Jacob g o g u e , ” namely, or the letter of Jacob, virtually all James 2:2: English translations—with the primary “Suppose a of Messianic Jewish man comes exception into your versions—refer to this Jacob as meeting...” James. Why? Does it sound too Or, in the King James Jewish? Ve r s i o n , Let’s look at the opening verse of his let- “For if there come unto your assembly...” ter as rendered in a contemporary In other words, since this is a “Christian” English version: “James, a servant of context rather than a “Jewish” context, God and of the Lord Jesus Christ, to the synagoges cannot possibly mean “synatwelve tribes scattered among the gogue.” Rather, we assume, it has to nations: Greetings” (James 1:1, NIV). mean “meeting” or “assembly,” since You might take this as saying, “This is Christians don’t meet in synagogues. the Christian leader James writing to Christians scattered around the world, There’s only one problem with this line figuratively referred to as the twelve of reasoning: This is the epistle of Jacob, tribes.” not James, and it was written to Jewish believers, not Gentile believers. That’s But what if we rendered the Greek liter- why the Complete Jewish Bible rightly ally, also rendering other names in a way renders this with, “Suppose a man comes that reflects their Hebrew/Aramaic back- into your synagogue...” while Kenneth ground? It would sound like this: “Jacob, Wuest’s Expanded Translation reads, a servant of God and of the Lord Yeshua “For if there comes into your synagogue
Page 25 [the meeting place of Christian-Jews]...” How novel this sounds to most Christian ears: a Jewish epistle written to Jewish believers who met in Messianic synagogues. But that is clearly what the text indicates, although it is not the way many Christian teachers have interpreted the text. I say it is high time for Bible translators, seminary and ministry school professors, pastors, teachers and all believers, to expunge “James” from our Bibles (I’m not talking about King James) and go back to what the original Greek text says: Jacob. It might just start a revolution in our churches, a revolution of truth, along with a reconnection to the Jewish roots of our faith. Will you join me in recovering the letter of Jacob? Michael Brown is the author of The Real Kosher Jesus and the host of the nationally syndicated talk radio show The Line of Fire on the Salem Radio Network. He is also president of FIRE School of Ministry and director of the Coalition of Conscience. Follow him at Michael Brown AskDrBrown on Facebook or @drmichaellbrown on Twitter. Sudoku Answers to Pg. 26
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Across 1. Fastener 5. Female animal 8. Board game 13. Instep 14. Roughage 15. Serf 16. Effect of long use 17. Endure 18. Mindful 19. Martial art 21. Homework, in short 23. Fresh 24. Transmit 26. Creative activity 27. Order of business 29. Introductory music in opera 34. Large African antelope 35. Narrate
37. Refresh 38. A division of quantity 40. Scope 43. Barb 44. Relating to the sun 46. Resitance to motion through a fluid 48. Belonging to us 49. Supply water or liquid to 52. Straying from the right course 54. Unit of weight 55. Enfold 56. Unhappy 59. Squad 61. A forceful consequence 65. Relating to hear-
ing or the ear 67. Naked 69. Currency unit 70. Very angry 71. Prevaricator 72. Particle 73. Stratum 74. Hard tough wood 75. A strong line Down
1. Bird of prey 2. Region 3. An indication of damage 4. A short musical passage 5. Epoch 6. Vespid 7. Catch or snare 8. Subdivision of a
written work 9. Strike with an axe 10. Zeal 11. Painful 12. Fret 14. Liquidizer 20. Marquee 22. Make a mistake 25. Open river valley 27. Rile 28. Association of people with similar interests 30. Section of a journey 31. Unification 32. First appearance 33. Open vessel with a handle and spout 34. Outpouring
Answers to Sudoku Puzzle on Page 25
36. Man or boy 39. Bitumen 41. Ship's company 42. Kind of hawk 45. Pit viper 47. Metric unit of weight 50. Digit 51. Endue 53. Come into view 56. Crossjack 57. Halo 58. Camion 60. Send by post 62. Motor vehicle 63. Harvest 64. Large and scholarly book 66. Consumed 68. Male sheep
Born August 28, 1972 in Tulsa, Oklahoma and raised in Waterloo, Indiana, Tim developed an ear for vocal music at a young age. His musical influences include many a cappella music groups. Four days after graduating high school, he moved to Oklahoma to begin a career in Christian music. Over the next several years, Tim would sing with the groups Timothy, Freedom, Vocal Union, AVB, Acappella, 50’s at the Hop and Rescue. During his career in Christian music, Tim has been blessed to be able to sing in Brazil, France, Switzerland, Jamaica, Fiji, Russia and England, as well as all over the United States. Tim set a Guinness World Record for the lowest note produced by a human by vibrating his vocal chords down to .189 Hz, which is just over seven octaves below the piano. He also set a Guinness World Record for the widest vocal range for a male. The new record was announced via CNN and Reuters at Ripley's Believe It Or Not, London, England. Tim joined Pierce Arrow at the beginning of the 2006 season and currently lives in the Branson area with his wife, Angie, daughter Emma, and son Evan.
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Could homeschooling soon be against the law in the U.S.?
Domenic was abducted by Swedish officials, Annie's health began to fail. Christer said the stress of the ordeal is killing his wife. "If we cannot solve this issue soon, Domenic won't have a mother anymore," he said.
by DALE HURD/CBN
R
ecently, U.S. Attorney General Eric Holder has said that home schooling is not a parent's right. It is a statement some are saying should frighten American parents. Nations like Germany and Sweden show that when governments take away home schooling rights, it's a slippery slope to no parental rights. America the Refuge or Not? The Romeike family came to the United States from Germany five years ago hoping to find refuge. They wanted to homeschool their children in freedom and a federal judge granted them asylum. But now the Obama administration has been trying to deport them, arguing that home schooling is not a right. The case is currently before a federal appeals court. Uwe and Hannelore Romeike began home schooling in Germany because they didn't want their children exposed to things like witchcraft and graphic sex education that are taught in German schools. "There were stories where [school children] were encouraged to ask the devil for help instead of God and actually the devil would help (in the story)," Uwe said. "When we found out what's in the textbooks, it's exactly the opposite from what the Bible tells us and teaches us, and we wanted to protect [our children]," his wife Hannelore added. But home schooling is illegal in Germany, except in rare cases. And many home schooling parents are persecuted with fines, jail, or the loss of their children. Homeschoolers Going Into Exile? Most home-schoolers in America are left alone. But what if state politicians and the federal government started to move against it? Two of the worst nations for homeschoolers are Germany and Sweden. If
you want to see what things might be like if home schooling was banned in America, travel to Sweden, where the government controls education and the home schooling movement has been crushed. In fact, the head of the Swedish Homeschooling Association, Jonas Himmelstrand, had to take his family into exile. They fled to Finland. "We're in exile. We were forced out of our country and that makes a stronger impact than I can imagine," he told CBN News. "This was our country. This was where we had our friends and business relationships and a whole lot of things and now we're pushed away from it." Attorney Michael Donnelly, the Homeschool Legal Defense Association, called the situation "incredible for a nation like Sweden that calls itself a free nation, a democracy, so to speak." Ruby Harrold-Claesson, President of the Nordic Committee for Human Rights, went even further, branding Sweden a dictatorship where social workers tell parents what to do. "Sweden claims to be a democracy but it's far from it. It's a dictatorship," he said. "You have the social workers dictating how people are to live. You're not supposed to be different. You're not supposed to be different from anyone else in Sweden. Everyone is supposed to be uniform. They want to have these cookie cutter children." Claesson is also the lawyer representing Christer and Annie Johansson, who have lost custody of their son Domenic, because of home schooling. After
Russia, A Home Schooling Haven Nations like Germany and Sweden could learn a thing or two about parent's rights from, of all places, Russia, which is one of the freest nations in which to homeschool. "We have complete freedom of home education in Russia, in terms of legality," Pavel Parfentiev, a family rights advocate in Russia, said. "The Russian Federation is sort of a champion of human rights in this particular area, so of course I think it is a good example for both Germany and Sweden where home educators are persecuted," he said. Among the persecuted, German home-schooler Juergen Dudek has been taken to court every year for the past 10 years by the German Jugendamt, or Youth Office. "The Youth Office, I used to call it the 'Gestapo for the Young.' As soon as they step in, as soon as they get hold of you, you've really got problems," Dudek said. German homeschooler Dirk Wunderlich and his wife have lost custody of their children, although they are still allowed to live with them. He also told CBN News he expects to be sent to jail, but said he will never stop homeschooling. "But I'm not afraid of this. I'm only sad for my family. I will go (to jail) laughing. You can do what you want but my children will not go to school," he said. America Safe for Homeschoolers? In America, a red flag went up earlier this year when the Justice Department argued in the Romeike case that home schooling is not a fundamental human right. A source close to the case said the White House cares more about relations with Germany than about a family seeking political asylum. Asylum for the Romeikes might open a floodgate of refugees from Germany, further embarrassing the German gov-
April 2013 ernment. Uwe Roemike, who makes his living as a piano teacher, knows what to expect if they're deported. "First they would fine us with increasingly higher fines and they would threaten to take away custody," he explained. "There might be jail time, too, but the main threat is the aspect of custody because then, of course, the children are taken away from you completely and that's what no family wants," he said. Uwe said the fact the White House would be willing to deny homeschooling freedom to his family, should make all American home-schoolers concerned. *Dale Hurd also reported from Stockholm, Sweden and Morristown, Tenn.
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Food Stamps: Policy or Political Payoff to Minorities? by HARRY R. JACKSON In an early strategic preparation for the struggle to avoid the fiscal cliff, the president and several Democratic luminaries decided to redefine as essential several entitlement programs. In an old fashioned way of manipulating the public, they began to redefine commonly held beliefs. In the interest of time, we will share only one example. Last December, Newark Mayor Cory Booker spent a much-publicized week trying to live the life of a food stamp recipient. And after a nationwide media tour, we learned many valuable lessons. First of all, we learned that giving up your daily Starbucks causes headaches, and leftovers are not as pleasant as fivestar dining. Publicity stunts aside, food stamp usage is indeed at an all-time high. The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) reported recently that nearly 48 million people were enrolled in the SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program). This is both the largest number of people and the largest percentage of the population ever. In some ways this is unsurprising: we are in the midst of a weak economy. The program was intended to be supplemental; not a replacement for a family’s entire food budget. It follows that an increasing number of families might have difficulty putting food on the table. A closer look at the situation, however, raises some concerns. The first is that people are not necessarily “turning to” food stamps, as much as they are being recruited to receive them. Since 2008, the USDA has produced Spanish language radio advertisements about SNAP, with the expressed goal of increasing the number of Spanish speaking individuals receiving food stamps. The spots were created in the style of popular Spanish language soap operas. In each episode, characters talk to one
www.OzarksChristianNews.com another about the benefits of food stamps and how important they are to good health. Often they encourage others to overcome their “pride” of self-sufficiency and enroll in the program. The USDA believes that increasing SNAP enrollment among the Latino population will improve their overall health and well being. The USDA’s website, explaining why it wants to increase enrollment while the federal government is running a trillion dollar deficit, says the campaign exists so that everyone “can feed their families healthy, nutritious food.” Apparently, they believe there are many “unreached” Latinos who cannot do this without government aid. This is not new territory for the food stamp program. During the early days of President Lyndon Johnson’s Great Society programs, thousands of federal “recruiters” were deployed to the black community to persuade African Americans to overcome their pride and accept food stamps. The USDA magazine reported in 1972 that, "With careful explanations . . . coupled with intensive outreach efforts, resistance from the 'too prouds' is bending.” The USDA accomplished its mission: approximately 25% of black Americans are now enrolled in SNAP, and many of those households have been receiving food stamps for two generations. Has this improved black American health, as the USDA claims it will for Latinos? African Americans, even after three generations of food stamps, have lower life expectancies than whites (74.3 years to 78.4, respectively). While starvation is largely a thing of the past in America, blacks suffer from higher rates of heart disease, obesity and diabetes than their white counterparts. Ironically, Hispanic Americans currently outlive both whites and blacks. As Professor Gary Galles of Pepperdine University points out: Studies find little difference between the nutritional adequacy of the diets of lowand high-income families, so that the problem is vastly overstated. Added food
spending also often fails to improve nutrition, as less nutritious but more convenient pre-prepared food is substituted for healthier home-prepared food. Further, obesity is a more common problem among low-income families today than lack of food. Therefore, trying to force recipients to consume more food than they would otherwise by giving food aid instead of cash would probably do little to improve nutrition, but would worsen obesity problems.
So it is by no means clear that increased enrollment in the food stamp program will improve the health of Latinos in our country. The aggressive USDA campaign goes to the heart of the program’s mission. The federal food stamp program was begun in 1939 as a way to get rid of large agricultural surpluses that the government had purchased from farmers. Years of the Great Depression had made hunger a real danger for some Americans, particularly in cities, but the program was discontinued in 1943 when widespread unemployment and unmarketable crop surpluses were no longer issues. Food stamps were revived in the 1960s as part of President Johnson’s Great Society, and federal recruiters were dispatched to increase enrollment in the program. This marked a decided shift in the philosophy of what enables people to actually get out of poverty. One of the elders in my church, a PhD in economics, was actually apart of evaluating the effectiveness of the early food stamps program. The problems with the pro-
April July2013 2012 gram are the same today as they were then. A man with “get-up-and-go” would rather have help establishing a new business or leveraging the support he receives from the government. The American Dream was built on the idea of self-reliance: that given sufficient opportunity, anyone could succeed by hard work and determination. Despite slavery and Jim Crow, black income rose at a faster rate before Johnson’s programs than it did afterwards. Anyone who works among the poor in America today knows the rarity of that “pride of selfreliance,” they also see the problem of generational poverty in both urban and rural America. Like crack cocaine, the government dole is very addictive. Blacks and Latinos need policies that will empower them, not federal recruiters to lure them into greater dependence. And at a time of unprecedented deficits—when our government needs to both raise revenues and cut spending—we need SNAP to enroll only those truly in need. Bishop Harry R. Jackson Jr. is the senior pastor of Hope Christian Church, a 3,000-member congregation in the Washington, D.C., area. He is also founder and president of High Impact Leadership Coalition, which exists to protect the moral compass of America and be an agent of healing to our nation by educating and empowering churches, community and political leaders.
April 2013
Bonnke, Hayford Call Benny Hinn Remarriage a Miracle by STEVE STRANG vangelist Benny Hinn and his exwife Suzanne were remarried last month after being divorced since
E 2011.
The Hinns’ divorce was widely reported and represented the latest of several high-profile Christian leaders who have recently divorced. Pastor Jack Hayford, Suzanne's father Roy Harthern and evangelist Reinhard Bonnke repeatedly referred to the significance of the Hinns' remarriage, calling it miraculous. "This is too wonderful," Bonnke told the crowd, noting that this miracle of remarriage was even greater than the miracle of any marriage. "I see a river of the balm of Gilead flowing to millions of broken marriages." He said he believes those marriages will be restored as a result. "It's a miracle of God's grace," said Hayford, who officiated, along with Bonnke and Harthern. Approximately 1,000 well-wishers watched the ceremony at the Holyland Experience in Orlando, Fla. "We're experiencing the miracle of
www.OzarksChristianNews.com restoration,” said Harthern, who performed the first ceremony. “I'm one delighted Papa to stand here a second time. This time it's going to work!" The crowd responded to this with a chorus of "amens." Many notable Christian leaders flew in for the event, including several from overseas— Morris Cerullo, Marilyn Hickey, Marcus and Joni Lamb, Cindy Jacobs and Riva Tims. But they did not participate. Instead all eyes were on the bride and groom in a rather traditional ceremony, mixed with plenty of praise and worship, that lasted two hours. The children and their spouses stood with their parents as attendants. Benny Hinn said nothing until the end when he prayed over Suzanne as the visiting Christian leaders crowded around. Hinn then told some personal stories including how his oldest grandson, Theo Koulianos, asked him at Thanksgiving about a year and a half ago (when Theo was 6) when his grandfather was getting back together with "Nana." He told his grandfather he was praying that Jesus would get his grandparents back together.
"God answered that little boy’s prayer," Hinn said as the crowd cheered. One of the most touching moments was a slide show of Hinn family photos, apparently produced by the Hinn children, of the couple when they first married and as their children grew up. It was a surprise to their parents. I attended the Hinns' first wedding on Aug. 4, 1979. I watched as their four children were born: Jessica, Natasha, Joshua and Alisha. I watched them grow up. Now the two oldest daughters are married and there are four grandchildren. The slides brought back many memories. I wasn't prepared for my own emotional response. Hayford apparently had a similar response. "Let me regroup my emotions," he said, adding that "we are the beneficiaries of this precious moment."
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Karen Wheaton and Judy Jacobs provided stirring music, but a crowd-pleaser was when Hinn asked his 83-year-old mother-in-law Pauline Harthern to sing "His Eye Is on the Sparrow," accompanied on the piano by her husband Roy.
P i e rc e A r ro w ’s M i c h e l l e Wa i t Today I'm returning to my roots as a reporter to write this account, even though my wife and I attended as guests. In my next report I'll write about how, as a family friend, I watched as the Hinns met and married, and how I saw their marriage disintegrate. I'll also expand on the true significance of what happened on last month as they remarried.
Michelle was born and raised in Lincoln, Nebraska. She fell in love with performing after watching her brother sing in his high school musical production of '42nd Street' when she was eight years old. With some encouragement from her Mom, she went on to perform in show choirs and numerous school and community musicals while growing up. Michelle moved to Branson in 2004 and has been employed by several theater's in Branson. She has also been a featured vocalists for Celebrity Cruise Line and Carnival Cruise Line. Michelle is a certified personal trainer, but most of all, Michelle loves being a mother and spending time with her two little boys, Bo and Abe. Michelle is thrilled to be a member of the Pierce Arrow family!
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Gun History This missive is circulating the web. It is suggested that after reading the following historical facts, read the part about Switzerland twice.
In 1929, the Soviet Union established gun control.. From 1929 to 1953, about 20 million dissidents, unable to defend themselves, were rounded up and exterminated. -----------------------------In 1911, Turkey established gun control. From 1915 to 1917, 1.5 million Armenians, unable to defend themselves, were rounded up and exterminated. -----------------------------Germany established gun control in 1938 and from 1939 to 1945, a total of 13 million Jews and others who were unable to defend themselves were rounded up and exterminated.
www.OzarksChristianNews.com -----------------------------China established gun control in 1935. From 1948 to 1952, 20 million political dissidents, unable to defend themselves, were rounded up and exterminated ---------------------------------Guatemala established gun control in 1964. From 1964 to 1981, 100,000 Mayan Indians, unable to defend themselves, were rounded up and exterminated. -----------------------------Uganda established gun control in 1970. From 1971 to 1979, 300,000 Christians, unable to defend themselves, were rounded up and exterminated -----------------------------Cambodia established gun control in 1956. From 1975 to 1977, one million educated people, unable to defend themselves, were rounded up and exterminated. ----------------------------Defenseless people rounded up and exterminated in the 20th Century because of gun control: 56 million. -----------------------------It has now been 12 months since gun owners in Australia were forced by new law to surrender 640,381 personal firearms to be destroyed by their own Government, a program costing Australia taxpayers more than $500 million dollars. The first year results are now in: Homicides are up 3.2 percent. Assaults are up 8.6 percent. Armed robberies are up 44 percent
In the state of Victoria alone, homicides with firearms are now up 300 percent. Note that while the law-abiding citizens turned them in, the criminals did not, and criminals still possess their guns! While figures over the previous 25 years showed a steady decrease in armed robbery with firearms, this has changed drastically upward in the past 12 months, since criminals now are guaranteed that their prey is unarmed. There has also been a dramatic increase in break-ins and assaults of the ELDERLY. Australian politicians are at a loss to explain how public safety has decreased, after such monumental effort, and expense was expended in successfully ridding Australian society of guns. The Australian experience and the other historical facts above prove it.. You won't see this data on the US evening news, or hear politicians disseminating this information. Guns in the hands of honest citizens save lives and property and, yes, gun-control laws adversely affect only the law-abiding citizens Take note my fellow Americans, before it's too late! The next time someone talks in favor of gun control, please remind them of this history lesson.
With guns, we are 'citizens.' Without them, we are 'subjects'. During WWII the Japanese decided not to invade America because they knew
April 2013 most Americans were ARMED! If you value your freedom, please spread this anti-gun control message to all of your friends. The purpose of fighting is to win. There is no possible victory in defense. The sword is more important than the shield, and skill is more important than either. The final weapon is the brain. All else is supplemental. SWITZERLAND ISSUES EVERY HOUSEHOLD A GUN AND TRAINS EVERY ADULT THEY ISSUE A RIFLE. THEY HAVE THE LOWEST GUN RELATED CRIME RATE OF ANY CIVILIZED COUNTRY IN THE WORLD!!! IT'S A NO BRAINER! DON'T LET OUR GOVERNMENT WASTE MILLIONS OF OUR TAX DOLLARS IN AN EFFORT TO MAKE ALL LAW ABIDING CITIZENS AN EASY TARGET. Just think how powerful our government is getting! They think these other countries just didn't do it right. Learn from history.
April 2013
from the editor...
Hey, buddy, can you spare five bucks? ou may have noticed that The Ozarks Christian News is available for free in various locations such as theatres, restaurants, waiting rooms, trash cans, etc. If you have not noticed these free copies... fantastic! Hopefully it was purchased from one of our vending machines or you are a faithful subscriber and get it in your mailbox each month. For the more than 13,000 people that have chosen to get it free each month online, do not feel guilty. We know how you are. (Just kidding, we love you.)
Y
We make it available for free so new readers can find the OCN and discover they cannot live without it. Hopefully, they will want to purchase it in the future. Some of the vending machines are honor racks, and we encourage you to be generous with loose change from your pockets, purses and car ashtrays. We are now in our 9th year of printing the only Christian newspaper in
www.OzarksChristianNews.com the Ozarks. We have served the Christian community to the best of our ability trying to be fair and balanced to more than one position on the non-essential matters. Of course, it is the human religious nature to make twigs into trunks. You can imagine the difficult task we have to try to educate and spiritually mature the believer without creating a great offense in the process. If this paper took a left-wing, flaming liberal position or a stinking right-wing, conservative p o s i t i o n (extreme opinions either way), folks on both sides of that spectrum would get pretty generous to support their own ignorant bias. Having a Christian publication be moderate usually generates moderate financial support because it doesn’t get us all fired up. However, we believe a moderate approach to the majority of hot topics is the most prudent and,
Often the people most concerned about others going to hell when they die seem less concerned with the hells on earth right now, while the people most concerned with the hells on earth right now seem the least concerned about hell after death. ~Rob Bell
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April 2013
Why Paul and Jan Crouch Can't Escape Accountability by STEVE STRANG
www.OzarksChristianNews.com things—like saying a glass is half full instead of half empty! But I’ve also learned that people at TBN don't like to deal with controversy— especially about TBN. I didn’t know how we’d ask the questions the Christian
aul and Jan Crouch I was scheduled to be at TBN in Dallas Friday for an exclusive interview with Paul and Jan Crouch about the Trinity Broadcasting Network’s 40th anniversary in May. But it won’t happen because Jan Crouch canceled at the last minute.
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We don’t usually cover ministry anniversaries, but TBN is marking the milestone with a big celebration, and they approached me about running an article in Charisma. I agreed only after they agreed to an exclusive interview with Paul and Jan. Their younger son, Matt, the heir apparent, would have been there. Marcus Yoars, editor of Charisma, and I would have tag-teamed with the questions. I have known Paul and Jan for many years. I respect what they built, and I recognize its value to the Body of Christ. I can identify with them. We have a common Assemblies of God heritage. They began with very little—just as I did— about the same time. I know they love Jesus and are committed to spreading the gospel. But as TBN has grown, strange things have developed, and they now are one of the most controversial Christian ministries out there. As a family friend told me about the Crouches, they built an empire but didn’t build a life. Covering them objectively as a journalist has been tough. I’m aware that they have had negative press coverage from the secular media, which looks at everything with a jaundiced eye and enjoys ridiculing Pentecostals. I know the Crouches well enough to know they are good people. So when we’ve written about TBN, it has generally tried to focus on the good
Paul and Jan Crouch community wants to know: about why their oldest son, Paul Jr., left the network, or the lawsuit and allegations from their granddaughter. Readers wanted to know why they allow ministers who have had nasty divorces—and in one case is accused of fathering a child by a teen in his church—on their telethons and stations. They wanted to know about how the more than $400 million-a-year budget is spent. I know the Crouches well enough to know they feel the last part isn’t anyone’s business, as long as they follow the law. They rebuff inquiries about their finances. Though they aren’t answerable to us, they are answerable to the Christian public who donate the millions, just as public companies must be accountable to their shareholders. In some ways the Crouches know this. They gush over how they love their TBN partners. They talk about the "little grandmas" who send in their love gift every month. But what about those who feel some things on TBN make a laughing stock of all charismatics and Pentecostals? Or that with some of the questionable programming they are spreading confusion around the world at the same time they’re spreading the gospel?
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I decided I’d invite you to suggest the questions that Marcus Yoars and I could ask on your behalf. And we have been inundated with questions. Click here and read them. Many are vicious—which may say more about the questioners than about TBN or the Crouches.
ing an editorial. I also said that if it was true, Paul should resign from TBN. Thankfully, the issue went away—it must have been false. But I did what I did based on principle. And I repeat it here to show I have no ill will and, in fact, came to their defense in the past.
Before we could compile our final list of questions, I learned Jan cancelled only a few hours after my newsletter went out on the Internet asking what we should ask the Crouches. Maybe she saw the questions about her pink hair or plastic surgery, or questions about why she is seen with handsome young men over the years more than with her husband.
I believe there are always two sides. The critics are not always right. And when you’re in the public eye, there are many who will attack you—just because. (Look at how someone as respected as Billy Graham is still attacked). I’m sure there are legitimate reasons the Crouches have homes in various places and reasons the money is spent as it is. I respect the fact the network continues to grow. And Paul Crouch has more business acumen than almost anyone I know.
I would not have asked those kind of questions some would consider rude. We would have instead gone over their successes. But we also would have
But this isn’t about the Crouches. They don’t own TBN. It is a nonprofit ministry that is accountIf you’re a TBN partner—as able to the public, or more I’ve been in the past— specifically, to the body of demand some answers. And Christ. I call on the Crouches to be ready to answer their if they aren’t forthcoming, critics and not ignore them or then there are many other to demonize them as they’ve ministries you can choose to been known to do.
support.
given them the opportunity to go on the record about some of these issues that need to be addressed.
If you’re a TBN partner—as I’ve been in the past—demand some answers. And if they aren’t forthcoming, then there are many other ministries you can choose to support.
That’s because I believe TBN has a real public relations problem. In many circles, it’s a laughing stock. And with Paul and Jan being as old as they are—he is 79 and she is 75— they need to be concerned about how they will be remembered in history after they are gone.
I wish TBN well. I am hopeful that the new generation of leaders will be more open and accountable, and that in the future they’ll be willing to sit down with respected journalists—if not us, then someone else—to answer the many questions the public has.
I went on record defending Paul Crouch several years ago when he was accused of homosexuality by a former employee who was also an ex-con. I said Paul has been a longtime Christian leader, so how could we believe the word of an ex-con over Paul’s word that the allegation was absolutely a lie?
Do you agree with me? What do you think about the questions people sent in? Add your comments to the conversation below.
As far as I know, I was the only national leader to rally to Paul’s defense by writ-
Steve Strang is the founder and publisher of Charisma. Follow him on Twitter @sstrang or Facebook (stephenestrang).
April 2013
No More Pentecostal Popemobiles by J. LEE GRADY
’m not Catholic, and I’ve never completely understood Catholics’ preoccupation with Vatican politics. But I’ve been watching the Vatican closely since last week when Jorge Mario Bergoglio of Argentina became the 266th pope and instantly got 2 million followers—and counting—on Twitter.
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Why is this man so popular? That’s easy to understand. He’s humble. He cooks for himself. He chose to live in a small apartment in Buenos Aires instead of the archbishop’s palace. When he was the leader of Argentina’s Catholics, he took el micro—the city bus—to get around. He took the bus again after his election last week in Rome. He even slipped out of the Vatican after his election to go and worship with the regular people—without security guards or the popemobile! And Bergoglio, who will go by the name Pope Francis, is a staunch advocate of social justice. He reportedly asked his Argentinean colleagues to skip his inauguration in Rome and give the money they would have spent on airfare to the poor. Have you noticed a contrast between Pope Francis’ simple lifestyle and the sickening excess that is on display among some of our Pentecostal/charismatic leaders? I’ve pulled a lot of my hair out watching our embarrassing charismatic sideshows over the last few years. I think it is time we draw a line in the sand and say: “NO MORE.” NO MORE BODYGUARDS. We have evangelists who send a small squadron of muscular thugs to “scout” the lobby of a hotel before they arrive. This is extremely odd when you realize that most of the people in said lobby have
www.OzarksChristianNews.com never even heard of the guy! Sorry, but I really don’t trust a man of God who claims he needs a bodyguard in church. Get down on the people’s level if you want to minister to them. NO MORE $10,000 PER NIGHT HOTEL ROOMS. We have traveling preachers who book 10,000-square-ft. hotel rooms with private pools so they can rest on their way home from international trips. Excuse me? We could build an orphanage with the money this man wasted. (P.S. I know a good Hampton Inn where you can get a nice bed for $89 a night—and it includes a hot breakfast.)
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Francis—and take the bus until your ego shrinks to a normal size. Last week in this column I shared a dream in which I saw a tsunami crashing into the Vatican and turning the Catholic system upside down. When the new pope was elected, an Argentinean newspaper called him “Tsunami Bergoglio” because they expect him to reform the stuffy, prideful, bureaucratic Vatican and challenge Catholics to return to a humble focus on Christ. We need the same drastic reforms on our side of the evangelical/Catholic divide. We need Pentecostal and charismatic leaders who shun the palace, reject lavish excess and get back to the basics of true gospel ministry.
NO MORE PRIVATE JETS. We have egomaniac ministers who insist on flying in private jets to speaking engagements, claiming that J. preachers who fly comLee mercial aircraft have no faith. These same ministers will hand you a fuel bill for $25,000. That is sick, especially when you consider that Jesus rode a donkey when He was presented as the Messiah to Jerusalem. (Note to Paul and Jan Crouch Home Rev. Bighead: You are not the president, and you do not need Air Force One.) Grady is the former editor of Charisma and the director of The Mordecai NO MORE CHARLATANS. We have Project slimy TV preachers who beg for dollars www.themordecaiproject.org on Christian television stations, pocket a You can follow him on Twitter at large amount of the take and then use leegrady. some of the funds to install marble floors in their four-car garages. That’s Creflo Makes Defense for worse than when medieval priests sold papal indulgences to get relatives out of Wealth www.BET.com purgatory. Back in 2008 the Rev. Creflo Dollar, the TV preacher whose Bling Dynasty was NO MORE LIMOUSINES. I don’t being probed by a ranking U.S. Senator, believe ministers have to drive clunker said that he has sold his $280,000 Rollscars. Higher-priced cars usually mean Royce and donated the money to his lower repair bills. But we have a probchildren’s ministry. lem when a visiting preacher refuses to be picked up at the airport in a church “If you want good news, I sold the van, or when the pastor of a 100-member church insists he must ride in a neon Rolls Royce and donated the money to our children’s ministry,” the Atlantayellow Ferrari. Get over yourself. area minister told ABC’s Nightline TV Maybe you should learn from Pope
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news magazine. “But I didn’t sell the Rolls Royce to please everybody … because there’s nothing wrong with having a car that members of church bought for me.” Dollar, along with several other televangelists who preach the gospel of prosperity, said that he has spent his own personal wealth purchasing 100 cars for elderly and single mothers, and that he has bought houses for people. And, regarding his large estate in Atlanta and his $2.4 million apartment in New York, Dollar says that those purchases have nothing to do with the $69 million his church brought in last year. They were bought with the money he earns from his many private business deals, he said. As for the private jet, he says he needs it, like a carpenter needs a hammer, as a tool to carry out God’s work. And for anyone who thinks being a Christian means you need to pledge to a life of poverty, they need to go back and read the Bible, he says. "I say pick the Bible up and read it for yourself," he told Nightline. "And as you begin to read it, you'll go through the entire Bible and find out that Abraham, the Bible says, was rich. Isaac and Jacob was rich. Joseph was rich. Solomon was one of the richest people in the world. These were all servants of God. Well, why in the world would God allow his son to come and not be at least to the level of those servants?" Not everybody agrees, including the Rev. Dr. Joseph Hough, president of Union Theological Seminary in New York . "This claim that Creflo Dollar makes that Jesus was rich is so ludicrous as to hardly bear examination," he said. “All of the people who followed Jesus were poor people …. Ninety-five percent of the people who lived in the culture that Jesus was part of were very poor people. It is wrong to make people believe that if they follow a certain formula, that God somehow is going to transform their circumstances."
April 2013
'The Bible' Producers Respond to Resemblance Between Devil Character and Obama by ALEX DOBUZINSKIS/REUTERS he popular U.S. TV miniseries "The Bible" has plunged into controversy over what some viewers see as a physical resemblance between an actor playing Satan and President Barack Obama, but producers on Monday dismissed any likeness as coincidental.
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The controversy began after the History Channel aired the latest episode of the popular series on Sunday evening, with Moroccan actor Mohamen Mehdi Ouazanni playing the part of the devil.
www.OzarksChristianNews.com Conservative commentator Glenn Beck said on Twitter, "Anyone else think the Devil in #TheBible Sunday on History Channel looks exactly like That Guy?" Other people on Twitter also said they saw a similarity and posted messages such as "Satan looks like Obama--say what?!" and "whoever played Satan looks like Obama ... creepy." The History Channel said producers of the show, which takes viewers through the stories of the Bible's Old and New Testaments, had no intent to cast an actor who looks like Obama as Satan, and that any resemblance was coincidental. "This is utter nonsense," Mark Burnett and Roma Downey, executive producers of "The Bible," said in a statement. The actor who played Satan "is a highly acclaimed Moroccan actor," the producers said. "He has previously played parts
in several biblical epics - including satanic characters long before Barack Obama was elected as our president." Burnett is the British-born producer of the reality series "Survivor" and his wife Downey is best known for playing an angel in the 1990s series "Touched by an Angel." The History Channel said "The Bible" was produced with an "international and diverse" cast and that it was "unfortunate that anyone made this false connection."
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viewers of the violent HBO drama series "Game of Thrones" noticed a prosthetic head on a stake shown in one episode bore a resemblance to former President George W. Bush. The creators of "Game of Thrones" apologized and said they did not shoot the scene with that intention. Reporting by Alex Dobuzinskis; Editing by Cynthia Johnston and Nick Zieminski Š 2013 Thomson Reuters. All rights reserved.
A similar controversy broke out last year, when s o m e
Moroccan actor Mohamen Mehdi Ouazanni playing the part of the devil.
April 2013 THE BLOG
Biden's One-Night Paris Hotel Tab: $585,000.50 BY JERYL BIER 10:50 AM, MAR 22, 2013 • s it turns out, Vice President Joe Biden's London stay in February was not the most expensive part of his trip. A government document released on February 14, 2013 shows that the contract for the Hotel Intercontinental Paris Le Grand came in at $585,000.50.
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The documentation for this contract is not as detailed as the London one, so the cost per room is not available. However, just like his London hotel, the Hotel Intercontinental Paris Le Grand is a five star hotel. Again, security concerns prevent these type of contracts from being open to bidding, but if the government was able to do some comparison shopping, the Hotel Intercontinental has a special offer, "Find a
www.OzarksChristianNews.com lower price elsewhere and your first night is free." The Vice President stayed in Paris for one night.
A pro-life ‘first’ in No. Dakota Posted by Charlie Butts (A FA NEWS) he North Dakota legislature has made pro-life history: it has passed a bill that would essentially ban abortion by defining human life as beginning at conception. Jennifer Mason of Personhood USA explains to American Family News what the bill would do. “For the first time ever in the history of the United States, both the House and Senate in North Dakota have passed a personhood amendment – which means that now it is placed directly on the [2014] ballot for a vote,” says Mason. “It's just like many of the other personhood amendments nationwide,” she continues. “It says that every human being is a person that has rights under the constitution and those constitutional rights need to be protected.” The bill provides legal protection for each human being beginning at conception. Meanwhile, both houses in North Dakota are working on a companion bill that would make it a crime to perform an abortion. That statute would be in place until the constitutional amendment is decided. That would require the governor's signature – and he has not indicated whether he will or will not.
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CHINA'S ONE-CHILD POLICY RESPONSIBLE FOR 336M ABORTIONS, 196M STERILIZATIONS
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During that same period, 196 million men and women have been sterilized in China. The Chinese population believes that the one child policy is all that separates them from poverty – a rational thought in light of the scarcity mentality created by communism. But 13 million abortions per year speak to the human cost of an economic system that has imprisoned hundreds of millions behind a barrier of bureaucracy and redistributionism. Thanks to China’s unsustainable economic model, the one-child policy may soon be changed; the demography of the country is tipping toward the middle aged and elderly.
Commentary What’s Done is Done by Max Lucado hat do you do with your failures? Could you do it all over again, you’d do it differently. You’d be more patient. You’d control your tongue. You’d finish what you started. You’d get married first. But as many times as you tell yourself, “What’s done is done,” what you did can’t be undone.
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That’s part of what the apostle Paul meant when he said, “The wages of sin is death.” (Romans 6:23). He didn’t say, “The wages of sin is a bad mood.” Or “The wages of sin is a hard day.” Read it again. “The wages of sin is death.” Sin is fatal. What do you do? Don’t we all long for a father who will love us? A father who cares for us in spite of our failures? We have that kind of a father. A father whose grace is strongest when our devotion is weakest. Your failures are not fatal, my friend!
by BREITBART NEWS Listen to UpWords with Max Lucado at hina’s one child policy has been one of the great human rights atrocities in world history, according to new statistics from the Chinese Health Ministry. They claim that over 336 million abortions have been performed since the inception of the policy in 1971.
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