DOUBLE ISSUE
Urban Christian Magazine
ITT Dec/ Jan
Table Of Contents
Today’s Church …………………………………………………. HCL…………………………………………………………………... Hot Iron…………………………………………………………….. Prayin Timez ……………………………………………………… Church Talk ………………………………………………………. Cross Roads ………………………………………………………. New Era—KSSW Jurisdiction COGIC New Bishop… Press Room……………………………………………………….. Gospel Studio Sounds ………………………………………... Tailor’s Room ……………………………………………………. Men’s Health …………………………………………………….. Woman’s Style Closet ………………………………………... Year In Review…………………………………………………... Family Living ……………………………………………………. Just The 2 of Us………………………………………………… Photos of 2014………………………………………………….. What The Bible Says……………………………………………. Top Christian Business Professional of 2014………….. Moving Your Church Forward i2015……………………... Shh!! Don’t say anything…………………………………….. Ask Jo………………………………………………………………. Resolution Files………………………………………………….. Earth lost Heaven gain…………………………………………..
Jacquette Thompson Editor In Chief
Joyce Graham Senior Creative Writer
Checkout Our Digital Publication On JOOMAG
Carol Brewer Guest Writer
From President’s Desk Welcome, to ITT the Urban Christian Magazine News Source. Jeremiah 32:27— “ I’m the Lord, the God of All Flesh: is there anything too hard for Me.” We are approaching the closing of 2014, which has been a year of ups and downs for many of us. Yet as we approach a new year of 2015 it seems we have forgotten the true power of Almighty God, just remember when a Mother ask to hold her deceased infant and God’s Power was shown when the infant came to life. I had the pleasure of attending the 107th Holy Convocation of the Churches Of God In Christ Inc., on Saturday night we heard a sound scriptorial and spiritual message concerning the alternative lifestyle of Homosexuality after the message there was a fallout when a young man confess to being delivered from the alternative, lifestyle and the video went viral. What disturb me the most was the Presiding Bishop of COGIC renouncing the Preacher’s message and apologizing to the young man . My spiritual view we sent the wrong message as a Christian and Godly organization because the Bible says
“Preach the Word be Instant in season and out season , reprove, rebuke, without all long suffering and doctrine.,” what the Preacher preached was biblical and
strong there was only one statement I disapproved that was said during the message but that’s normal when any preacher is speaking but, to compromise our standards, to protect us from potential financial challenges rather than standing on the Word of God, we must check our faith gage because we are suppose to be persecuted for righteousness sake.
“ Who’s on the Lord’s Side”
Does Church still believe in the Divine Covenant of Marriage?
Morality— Conformity to the rules of right conduct; moral or virtuous conduct Contradiction— Gainsaying or opposition; inconsistency In today’s world as people we have lost the value of having a standard where we respect ourselves and each other. Yet in the 21st century we have begin to call Right wrong and wrong right why? Simply because, we don’t want to stand alone or be criticize for speaking out and having a standard for how you live. Sure, as individuals and Christians we can be respectful toward others yet keep our morality. The contradiction, we are facing as the body of Christ is we saying one thing and doing another. We are saying we believe in holiness yet, use a thousand, clichés in our sermons to entrap large audiences for financial usury. On the other hand Christian cultures, like Pentecostal churches have use emotionalism as a device to lose sight of reality when the truth of the matter is jumping
and dancing will not change your life. The word of God tells us “ Be not conformed to this world but, be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind” which means morality helps us to be transformed but not getting caught up in the latest trends happening in the church.
Contradiction has become like a flash drive you put into a computer we use it when it benefits us and when it doesn’t then we decide to pick up the morality. Just because someone is your son or friend doesn’t mean you decide to be forgiving you must be forgiving at all times not when it comes to someone you love and then speak against sin when it doesn’t , involve those we care about that’s why? You must chose to be consistent and not let contradiction become a drug for your own situation, we all face challenges, in our lives that come out of nowhere, but sometimes we see them coming, and chose to ignore the problem or situation until it’s to far gone then we feel helpless then give into contradiction and change our standard. We must keep morality at the forefront our spiritual walk with God because, if we have patience to wait on God and let the process work itself out then the word of God promise us we will reap in due season if we faint not, I know it’s easier said than done but, God has no respect a person and he doesn’t lie, what he promised, he is able to perform so, nothing is too hard for God. So, which side will you choose the next time you are facing unforeseen challenge or trail will it be Morality or Contradiction, it’s your decision.
Healthy Christian Living
Health Benefits of Nutmeg 3. Indigestion Relief 1. Brain Tonic During ancient times, Roman and Greek civilizations used nutmeg as a type of brain tonic. This is because nutmeg can effectively stimulate your brain. As a result, it can help eliminate fatigue and stress. If you are suf-
If you suffer from digestion-related problems like diarrhea, constipation, bloating, flatulence and so on, nutmeg can effectively offer you relief. Nutmeg oil relieves stomachaches by removing the excess gas from your intestines. Nutmeg can also boost your appetite. 4. Bad Breath Treatment
fering from anxiety or depression, nutmeg may also be a good remedy. Nutmeg can
Because of its antibacterial properties, nutmeg can also
also improve your concentration so you can
effectively treat halitosis or bad breath. As you probably
become more efficient and focused at work or at school. 2. Pain Relief Nutmeg is also an effective sedative. In fact, nutmeg is a staple in ancient Chinese medi-
know, bad breath is usually caused by a build-up of bacteria in your mouth. Nutmeg can rid your mouth of these bacteria. This is the reason why nutmeg is a common ingredient in many brands of toothpastes. Nutmeg can also be used to treat gum problems and toothaches. 5. Liver and Kidney Detox
cine. The Chinese used the spice to treat inflammation and abdominal pain. Use nut-
Detoxification is an important factor of good health. Diet,
meg if you are suffering from aching joints,
pollution, stress, tobacco, medication and other external
muscle pain, arthritis, sores and other ail-
substances can lead to the build-up of toxins in your or-
ments. To relieve the pain, apply nutmeg oil
gans. The liver and kidney are two of the organs where this
to the affected areas.
toxic build-up usually develops. As a tonic, nutmeg can clean your liver and kidney and remove these toxins. If you are suffering from a liver disease then nutmeg can also be beneficial. Nutmeg is also effective in preventing and dissolving kidney stones. When your liver and kidney are successfully detoxified, they can perform their function better.
Even When It’s Not Favorable Speaking Your mind is the very part of Human existence, it makes up relationships, daily interactions, whether at Church, Home, or Work. Now days speaking your mind has become taboo why? Its not politically correct, and you may offend someone. As human beings we have become so, two faced we will speak our minds instantly when it has nothing to do with us then when it involves us then we want people to be quite and be fair and look for the best in the situation. The challenge in speaking up is be prepared to be one day in the situation where someone will speak up to you or about you. Speaking up helps create a standard that will help others follow as a guide, and it’s always favorable or fair, proper nor politically correct, that’s why the Bible says “ Cry Loud spare not lift up Your voice like a trumpet in Zion” , in other words take a stand whether people think it’s good or bad standing for Righteousness requires guts to speak out. Speaking out will not make you popular or get you some big award but, it will strengthen you Character and many times keep you integrity while others cash theirs in for going with the crowd and what others think.
Speaking up requires courage and the willingness to face adversity regardless, of what others think so, many times we try make our words perfect and not offend others but in any relationship, there will be times when you must make yourself clear on where you stand. In today’s times people want to be told what will make them feel good rather than the complete truth which has led to poor decision making, lack of direction, and even destruction. Even in the church we have went away from the principals of God and are relying on our own intellect and educational background to accomplish what require sound spiritual standards and principals which gives each of us the courage to speak up when things are not right and must challenge the very root of the situation which may even pit us against those who we love, helping us to understand that it is a requirement to be prepared to meet the challenge when God calls on us to face that day to day trial which may require you and I do something that we had never planned on doing and this Speaking Up.
Prayer is simply a request that we make know unto God but, many times we pray with vain repetitions with too clichĂŠs that have nothing to do with God answering our request (Prayer). Logic is defined as - reason or sound judgment Our prayers must have reason and sound judgment. Prayer is a spiritual weapon that must be used skillfully so, when we pray that we pray in the spirit and with a understanding. Pray must make sense to God yes, we said that why? Because many Christian believers exaggerate there circumstances when it comes to God providing a answer to there situation sure we want the Saints to rejoice with us when we testify of God goodness but, our prayer has logic to God whether it is sickness or distress, or and unfortunate, situation that happens in our lives. Pray provides that solution by us letting, God we need him and that this circumstance, is beyond our control or intellect, which is why our pray must have logic to God.
Prayer must have logic when we enter into our prayer closet we put our request out there before, God then the spirit maketh intercession with moans and groans and takes us into the divine, presence of God and this provides us the anointing to receive, an answer to our prayers. Prayer has positional purpose because Repentance Prayer is submission to God’s divine, will and accepting him as your personal savior, and lord. Authority Prayer is when the Christian believer is walking in right relationship, with God and in daily communication with God. Gift of Prayer is the spiritual gift bestowed on the believer to able to commune, with God and speak with him at all times for revelation, protection, and divine power and to strengthen, the Body of Christ throughout the world.
Michael Brown, Tamir Rice, Eric Garner, Trayvon Martin, are just a few of many black men who have lost their lives due to law enforcement( Police) or stand your ground law. At ITT MAG, we have an issue with this why? Father of 3 sons we don’t march when a Pastor is accused of molestation, and pays 2 million dollars to make it go away, we ignore it and go on with our church programs. We don’t march when a supposedly God fearing country legalizes same sex marriages and threatens to take churches 501© 3 for preaching against it, instead we stand aimlessly by and watch it happen and do nothing. Now the infection has festered in our country to where law enforcement feels that should take lives of color simply because we have a Black President, yes we said it, the society and country we live in doesn’t want Black Men to have the courage and confidence to be sound efficient contributors in this country that is why I don’t have a problem with the Marching but, I have a problem with us being reactive, instead of proactive.
As we march around the country and make our voices heard make sure that we develop a plan to stop our young men and women from becoming, a victim of law enforcement, racism. We also must become proactive in changing our mindsets when it comes to our communities and families, which is stop robbing everything, in our communities and work together instead of being in competition, with one another join together helping each other common cause for the greater good. We must be challenged to change our thinking and how we present ourselves to our fellow man , if you are sagging your pants and you tank top t-shirt hair not comb, this an image that makes even our elders in our community uncomfortable and unsure of what the future holds for communities in years come. Black Lives Matter when we create a stand in our communities, were we refuse to lose the vision that our Parents, Grandparents, gave their lives for so, we could be people and race with dignity and honor.
In 1974, the Church was revered as scared and spiritual. In those times Christians were respected as Holy and righteous living individuals, the community respected the Christian community at large regardless of denomination. In 2014, and going into 2015 the Church no longer has the reverence it had in the past why? We are more concerned with a Praise Break groups on YouTube, and clichés like “ The enemy must take his hands off your finances,” these are just a few of the many that are used to create hype and misleading those who listen to it. In today’s times we are unwilling to challenge the society we live in sure we have more education, technology, etc., yet we have less commitment not to mention every Clergymen is either a Prophet, Apostle, or Pastor, I guess more power comes with the title not. The Church has become an industry, instead of a spiritual institution, yes we need more to operate the church and ministry programs but, making
Sure Christians are balanced is important, but we can’t ignore the divorce rate among Christian believers and do reality shows trying to show transparency instead of realizing that as Christians believers we make choices and we must be accountable, for decisions , sure we can dance and shout all night in church and do the complete opposite when we leave the sanctuary. The Church must go back to standing together in pray and have conversations, stop all the let’s keep it real and realize that God sees everything and that we must preach the Word when it’s poplar and when it’s not that it will even make you stand against family and friends that will later respect you for not changing just to please them which is what we are to do Godly believers is to stand when have done all to stand, keep standing in the power of his might. The Church must find it’s former Glory and strengthen it’s heart .
Bishop Mark Gilkey has the dimensional insight to take Kansas Jurisdiction into new heights in the 21st century, he the 3rd Bishop in succession following his father Bishop After 29 years of historical and J.C. Gilkey Sr. impactful, leadership by Bishop J.C. Gilkey Sr., Kansas Southwest Bishop Mark Gilkey is a loyal Jurisdiction Churches Of God In a devoted Husband and Father of 3 children Breanna, Ryan Christ Inc., has a new Bishop and Ciara , not to mention the and a new era has begun. first of the jurisdiction is Bishop Mark L. Gilkey is the new Evangelist Lady Virdena who Prelate of Kansas Southwest Ju- stands with him in ministry risdiction COGIC. From his days which is a double impact. Whether you like him or not as State Minister of Music, to Chairman of AIM of KSSW, to Bishop Mark L. Gilkey is makPastor of Agape Fellowship, his ing an imprint in the Body of road to the pinnacle as bishop is Christ. ITT was honored to be there and witness the official one many would try to avoid consecration at the Holy Conyet, Bishop Mark L. Gilkey has embrace every challenge along vocation in St. Louis MO the road to becoming bishop. Although being bishop was not his focus but, doing the work of the Lord will promote you into a place were you least expect to be. Bishop Mark L. Gilkey bring to the office of bishop his dynamic professional skills for the bankBishop Mark L. Gilkey receiving his ing and financial world where official appointment from Presiding he was a manager at Intrust Bishop Charles Blake Bank.
En route to the international leadership conference he was hosting today, the Bahamas' best-known pastor, Myles Munroe, died with his wife and seven others in a plane crash Sunday. The 60-year-old founder and president of Bahamas Faith Ministries International was an alumnus of Oral Roberts University and a past speaker for Promise Keepers. He helped author more than 100 books, many of which were bestsellers in the Caribbean and Africa, according to NBC. CT noted how Munroe was the opening speaker for the 1996 National Religious Broadcasters conference. “It was an honor having Myles Munroe speak on our platform in the early 2000s,” Promise Keepers said in a Facebook post Monday. “We have peace knowing that he is with the Lord. Our prayers go out to his family and friends.” Samuel Rodriguez, president of the National Hispanic Christian Leadership Conference, noted on his Facebook page that Munroe “lived for the kingdom and helped us understand that we can change the world.” “I remember when he spoke to me and gave me a word so on point. He will be missed,” Rodriguez said on Facebook. He noted on Twitter that “Myles Munroebreathed, lived and died expanding the kingdom of God. His passion for Christ made him a true ambassador of grace and righteousness.” The plane Munroe was in crashed on Grand Bahama Island after it hit a crane in the shipyard as it was attempting to land near Freeport, according to Bahamian newspaper Tribune 242. All nine people on board died, including Bahamas Faith Ministries International’s senior vice president and pastor, Richard Pinder, and Munroe’s wife, Ruth, according to CNN and ABC.
CD Speak To Your Day - Spectacular
Cameo Profit and group One Way have one of the hottest CD’s on the Market with the entitled track “Speak To Your Day” this CD is by far his best project the time and effort put into project shows from Profit and John Brister as the Executive producers of this project. We are extremely proud to say he is from the ICT. Everyone should have this CD in there collection it also features Dwayne Robinson on Track 4 and Apostle Cortez Vaughn is also featured on this ministry project, pick this CD up to start your new year 2015 off right I guarantee you will not be disappointed.
Well, it’s been about a decade since we heard from the famous, Winans family. In case you thought they were done think again this legendary Gospel, Music Family has been miss in the Gospel Music industry and the are back with Carvin, Marvin, Benjamin, 3 Winans Brothers, who have a new CD together and are drawing rave reviews with the single from the CD entitled “ Move In Me” featuring the dynamic of Bishop Marvin Winans. If you are fan of the Winans then you must go out an add the CD to your collection .
The Sign of a Well-Made Custom Suit: Full Canvas Construction Suits are purchased everyday even on Sundays but, the consumer, has no idea how a suit is constructed with it’s custom made or factory made. Which leaves the consumer at a disadvantage, so our new Tailor’s Room, section provide you with the factual information concerning suit making and how a Custom suit is designed, and made. The diagram, to the left allows you to see the time and structure of Full Canvas Constructed Custom, Made Suit. The Tailor’s Room, will provide the clothing audience with factual information on Men’s clothing from Suit making to Dress Shirt design to the proper Shoes to wear for each and every occasion. Also, providing you with the best price information whether online or going to visit custom suit or shirt maker our goal is to make sure that you are informed and prepared to expand your wardrobe when you choose to and when the fashion market decides.
Herbs for Weight Loss GREEN TEA EXTRACT
L-GLUTAMINE
HOW IT WORKS: Green tea contains
HOW IT WORKS: When blood sugar levels drop, cravings
compounds called catechins, a class of
tend to follow because your brain isn’t getting the fuel it
antioxidants which have been associ-
needs. “L-glutamine, an amino acid, instantly fuels the
ated with an increased metabolism and
brain, which stops the code red that makes you crave
the ability to stimulate fat burning. In a
sweets and starchy foods,” says Ross. Evidence also sug-
2005 study published in the American
gests that L-glutamine might facilitate weight loss by af-
Journal of Clinical Nutrition, a group of
fecting the conversion and storage of calories. glutamine
men who consumed 690 milligrams of
capsules (nowfoods.com)
green tea extract per day lost more
DOSAGE: Two 500-mg capsules three times a day be-
weight in three months than a control
tween meals for one to two months. For the fastest effect,
group (an average of 5.3 pounds versus. 2.9 pounds). Burn fat with FISH OIL HOW IT WORKS: Fish oil’s omega- 3 fatty acids help change the way the body uses fat: Instead of storing it, the body burns fat as fuel. In a study published in the American Journal of Clini-
cal Nutrition in 2007, Australian researchers found that both fish oil and exercise independently reduced body fat. But a combination of the two—the study subjects walked briskly three times a week for 45 minutes and consumed 1.9 grams of fish oil daily—
Burn fat & boost your metabolism with GUGGUL HOW IT WORKS: An Ayurvedic remedy, guggul is used for relieving joint pain, lowering cholesterol, and aiding weight loss. In a 1999 study conducted by researchers at the University of Nebraska and Beth Israel Medical Center in New York City, people who took 750 mg of guggul each day and did a combination of strength and aerobic training workout three times a week for six weeks lost an average of six pounds; those who exercised but did not take guggul lost only a half to one pound. “Guggul helps the body metabolize fat and improves thyroid function by increasing thyroid hormone levels,” says John Douillard, Ph.D., director of the LifeSpa School of Ayurveda. BEST BUY: Banyan Botanical Triphala Guggulu capsules (banyanbotanicals.com) DOSAGE: 500 mg, three times a day for three mont
Do you feel like your closet is working against you? I want to share a few tips with you to save you some money, get your closet organized and even make you look like you lost 15 pounds. Can I help you? We all would like to have the elusive "perfect body" but lets begin where we are. Let me share these tips with you. First I encourage you to begin a healthy eating and movement lifestyle. No not diet. A Lifestyle. As you work on that, go into your closet and find those pieces that are the best colors on you but maybe don't fit the best. These are the pieces that you can have tailored to fit better and enhance your wardrobe. OK I hear you other ladies saying "I haven't been shopping in a long time and nothing in my closet looks or fits good on me" So here are a few shopping tips. When you are shopping, please be prepared to try things on. This is key! How many times have you gone shopping and purchased something you just knew would fit and is sitting in your closet with the tags still hanging on it. I know I have a few of those. Let's clear those out and give them to the clothing ministry. Let's bless someone else.
When trying things on, not sure how a certain style or outfit will hug your curves? Stop at the mall and try it on. When you get it on check yourself out in the mirror from all angles, even sitting down. Also, know your measurements. These days, you can get sales staff to to take measurements for you. Store them in your wallet or phone so you have them when you shop, even online. This can help you make the best choice in our clothing investment. When you are trying on a jacket or pant and one size fits just a little snug in the size you normally wear, but the next size is too baggy, purchase the bigger one. This is where the tailor comes in. The larger size can be cut to fit your shape and compliment your curves. Remember a smaller size can not be let out as easily, or compliment your shape. Having great style has precious little to do with your size, more so to do with you knowing your body and what looks good on it. Remember to look and be your best no matter your size. Jewelry is always a great accessory so shop Soul Sisters Jewelry Designs! Like us on Facebook.
One of the most compelling events of 2014, happened @ the 107th Holy Convocation of the Churches Of God In Christ Inc. On Saturday night of the convocation, Pastor Earl Carter of Tampa, Florida preached an anointed message speaking out against Homosexuality and immoral living, only to the message cloud by a young man who came up to the altar for prayer and declared deliverance from a lifestyle of homosexuality. After a video of the message went viral the Presiding Bishop Charles Blake, a week after the convocation made a video renouncing Pastor Earl Carter’s message during the convocation. The Double Standard, happened when COGIC decided they might sue the young man over a song made about his declaration. Our job a Christians or Saints is to stand on the word of God instead as a organization COGIC was worried about reputation and the thought of being sued scared Leadership, to back down and apologize only to change their minds again. In the End—Righteousness Wins out not Reputation.
Tasha Cobbs is one the upcoming voices in the Gospel Music Industry and the Gospel Music World Rewarded her in 2014 with her winning New Artist of The Year @ the Stellar Awards winning a total of 3 Stellar Awards and she continued, make her mark by adding 3 Dove Awards and Grammy. Ms. Cobbs is definitely a breathe of fresh air Gospel Music has need and she has a bright future in the Gospel Music World. Those who have not pick up her CD entitled “Grace” which had the number #1 single “ Break Every Chain” which stayed on the charts for a total of 12 weeks, so we know that this young woman is not a fly by night sensation that will fade away but, is here to stay as one of leading voices of Praise and Worship. ITT Salutes you Ms. Tasha Cobbs
Well, we have another reality in the Church World and that is the Preachers Of Detroit which features 7 clergy leaders which are the following Bishop Charles Ellis, Pastor David Bullock, Bishop Corletta Vaughn, Pastor Tim Alden, Evangelist Dorinda Clark-Cole, BishopElect Clarence Langston, and Pastor William Shelby Jr. Of course this will create another, dialogue among Christians, every where but, the reality, is that Christendom has become poplar in the American culture and the Body of Christ has fallen prey to trying let the world know we are human when the facts are clergy leaders, pay bills just like all other people and the have daily challenges, they face, and exposing them on nation platform isn’t going to make salvation or living, of Godliness any more expectable, that it has been times past but, check it the show out for yourself premiers February 20, 2015 on the Oxygen Channel, check your cable provider for time in your city.
The decision came a day after Parker met with Houston pastors (including Chris Seay, who wrote about the subpoenas for Leadership Journal), as well as clergy leaders from across the country who have defended the subpoenaed pastors’ religious freedom. "It was never our intention to interfere with clergy and their congregants,” Parker said. “I don't want to have a national debate on freedom of religion when my purpose is to defend ... a city ordinance." According to Parker, the subpoenas—once modified to exclude sermons—are “legal, valid, and appropriate," but unintentionally pushed the city into a broader religious debate that wasn’t good for the city or its efforts to defend its new ordinance. “This is not about silencing my critics; this is about doing the right thing,” she said. The Alliance Defending Freedom, which represented the subpoenaed pastors, calledthe decision a triumph of pastors' First Amendment rights over government intimidation.
As Parents we can become stuck when it comes to our children growing up , what do we mean often times we don’t see our children one day becoming Adults therefore, we have tendency to under communicate, with them and not provide them with the necessary skills to make sound decisions, when it comes to planning their lives once they have graduated High school sure going to college is important but, as parents we don’t always look to hidden information such as having your child invest in 401k when they start their first Job and how important it is to plan for the future. Being young doesn’t mean not to plan this the deception of time and how we allow our lives to be lived. Open communication builds confidence with your children and creates a strong relationship so, you are able to accomplish goals collectively together as a family, and closes the wall of disconnection and strengthens, the core foundation of your relationship, as Family a creates trust among one another.
Communication removes the fear of Young Adults adjusting to living life as an Adult. According to research, static’s more Young Adults are living at home longer due to fear of not being able to live independently on their own. This comes from Parents not preparing their children for living life such teach them how to budget and realizing, that saving money is more important than spending it and learning to pay for living expenses such as Rent, Cell Phone bill, etc., will give them a jump start on how to survive living as a Adult. Again, Communication builds the strength of your family to believe, trust, and understand one another by growing to together and serving one another in everyway possible without communication, the fellowship, is soon disconnected.
In 2015, the greatest challenge for the Church isn’t winning more souls but, restoring it’s voice, faith and confidence in Marriage. Sure, church organizations can make a declaration about marriage, being between a Man and a Woman yet, the confidence in the Marriage Institution, has weakened due to the Body of Christ not speaking up for the greatest institution, created by God. Yet in the 21st Century, groups like the Kansas African-American Healthy Marriage Initiative, have been created to restore the confidence, and faith in marriage. Marriage, has never been a society institution, it is a divine covenant created by God for Man and Woman to create a family. Now in the world we live in status, money, etc., have created a false premise of what marriage is all about and it is up to Church community to step and communicate on the power of Marriage and how it strengthens
The church and community, having been silent far too long on the foundation of civilization, we have allow marriage, to viewed as bondage and divorce has become the antidote for two individuals not having the communication, skills and the resolve to stay together. Sure, there are hundred reasons, to end a relationship but, there a thousand reasons to stay together and time has come for the foundation of the Church to come back and that is Marriage and the Family. While we sit around a let the society make a mockery, of the divine covenant God created is the spiritual obligation of the Christian and Saints to speak up for marriage, why God design marriage, Does The Church Still Believe In Marriage? Think about it.
All Pictures taken by DBP Worldwide Photography except the Consecration of Bishop Mark L. Gilkey ******
The Bible says a lot of things, so we take the time and inform those on what exactly the Bible does say and why we stand by the Word of God. Qualification for Elders In Ministry Titus 1:6-9 6. If any be blameless, the Husband, one wife, having faithful children not accused of riot or unruly. 7. For a bishop must be blameless, as the steward of God; not self-willed, not soon angry, not given to wine, no striker, not given to filthy lucre; 8. But a lover of hospitality, a lover of good men, sober, just, holy, temperate; 9. Holding fast the faithful words as he hath been taught, that he may be able by sound doctrine both exhort and to convince the gainsayers.
How to Avoid the Practice of Fornication 1 Corinthians 7:2— Nevertheless, to avoid fornication, let every man have his own wife and let every woman have her own husband. 1 Thessalonians 4:3—For this the will of God, even your sanctification, that ye should abstain from fornication. 1 Corinthians 6:18– Flee fornication. Every sin that a man doeth is without the body; but he that committeth fornication sinneth against his own body. Ephesians 5:3—But, fornication, and all uncleanness, or covetousness, let it not be once named among you, as becometh saints. 1 Corinthians 6:13—Now the Body is not for fornication, but for the Lord; and the Lord for the body.
Tawan W. Davis One of the top leading Christian Business Professional that is impact both the Christian and Professional worlds. Davis is the President and Chief Operating Officer of The Pebbles Corporation and a Adjutant Instructor at the New York University School of Continuing and Professional Studies. Tawan Davis diverse educational background, has allow him to have great voice in the Christian world, he has been an instructor at the Churches Of God In Christ annual Holy Convocation and is an ordained Elder who currently serves at Kelly Temple in New York. Mr. Davis is an example of what Christian can be regardless of what obstacles you face you can accomplish more than you imagine with God on your side “ All things are possible to them that believe” we salute Tawan Davis as a Leading Christian Business Professional .
DeVon Franklin Every one knows that he is the Husband of the Actor Megan Good but, Devon Franklin is another top leading Christian Business Professionals. Devon Franklin is an Author, Film Producer, Preacher and Motivational Speaker, he is the Senior Vice President, of Production at Columbia Pictures, and he was formerly a studio executive at Metro– Goldwyn– Mayer. Mr. Franklin is proving to the body of Christ that you can do more than just be a preacher and go to church but, you can take your witness into the professional world and be successful without lowering or changing, your spiritual standards. Devon Franklin has proven to the body of Christ “ If God be for You who can be against You” thank you for your Godly Witness in a ever changing world .
2015 is the year of moving forward and especially the Church. We must strategically, ethically, and spiritually meet the challenge of reshaping the spiritual authority, in the Body of Christ and in our local churches. 5 Key Principals for Moving Your Church Forward in 2015 1. Clear and Concise goals 2. Information Resource Guide 3. Develop a Winner’s Attitude 4. Defining who you are as a Church 5. Build a formula that creates impact. _______________________________________ Clear & Concise Goals A Church must set goals both naturally and spiritually in order to continue growing. Without, clear and concise direction a Church will eventually faultier why? Simply because in the 21st century information provides growth and stability. A Church is like all other organizations, people make up the bloodline and strength of the Church so to maintain a strong church you must have clear defined goals. Churches lose members like businesses lose customers when the communication is unclear and no guidelines are set for them to follow, yes we are led by the Holy Ghost but, the Word of God also states “ Write the vision and make it plain” therefore you must a clear plan for the Church. Sure you will lose members due to time but, most people leave churches and try to start other churches because, were they attended the goals were not clear and members were not sure of the direction the Church was moving.
Information Resource Guide All should have a Information Resource Guide Book for their congregants and your question is what for ? A Information Resource Guide Book provides the congregants, to find the ministry program that best meets their needs also, lets them mark their calendar’s for important events so, they don’t miss out and are able to attend, most structural churches have this information on their website and congregants are able to download it via PDF, without this tool a Church lacks connection to its congregants. Develop a Winner’s Attitude Winner’s Attitude comes from the connection, and atmosphere of your church, a Church that is confident not based on reputation but, natural and spiritual performance, 1. Create Quarterly Financial Reports 2. Make sure to keep members update with sudden changes. 3. Keep them informed on weekly basis of what the Church is doing , the more they know the more members feel connected. Members of a Church are like paying customers in a store the more benefits they are informed of the more they spend same with church members the more informed they are the more participation the church receives spiritually and financially. The quickest way to see financial decline in a church is when the church provides no information or reports to keep members abreast their church on going developments.
Defining Who You are as a Church Branding is setting yourself apart from others, the same goes for a Church it must decide what it’s major strength is and define, it and own it. Some churches strength is their Praise and Worship , another Church strength maybe they have a dynamic, Pastor / Preacher where people come to here the preacher and that’s all . Have clear picture of what is your Church’s strength that way you can sell others on coming to the Church where you attend. Build a Formula that creates Impact Every Church needs a Formula that creates an Impact, and that formula is create by those who are members who support the ministry but they must have the freedom to have influence on the Brand of the Church and ministry . The more influence your members have the more people walk through the doors of the Church, often times we rely strictly on the Spiritual and the natural in just as important to the growth of the ministry, one church all churches can take a page out of their book and that is the West Angeles Church of God In Christ, for the past 3 decades this church has continue to build and rebuild their formula, to create impact and it has nothing to do with Bishop Charles Blake directly but, indirectly because he has give those with the skills the freedom to have impact and create new growth and continue expand the ministry to new heights each and every year same thing he has done for the International, Churches Of God In Christ Inc.
Why Political Structure is creating Dysfunction in the Church
The Christian Church structure has become diluted with Political formats that have absolutely nothing to do with spiritual, growth and have filtered there way into the Body of Christ cause self righteousness, and deception. I know I know, we are not suppose to say anything or oppose anything that has to do with leadership. Reality Shows, etc., have filtered into the Church simply because Christian Leaders want the same fame as the world and in the church we have gotten caught up in star recognition, so we have to put pictures, on Instagram etc., when these individuals, who we feel are celebrities in the Christian world have to pay bills just like the rest of us. You don’t have to be an Adjutant , or a supposedly amour bearer to have direct anointing or contact with God. No we are not saying that being an adjutant is bad but, these various unnecessary, roles in the church has created a political, structure and self serving purpose, rather than a spiritual purpose which has lead to sinful behaviors that have led men away from God which fulfills the scripture that says “ Men Shall become
more lovers themselves than lovers of God”
Structure is important for any organization, but sometimes too much structure creates chaos and in 2015 church has become like a business where everything we do in church has a time limit simply because we feel that congregants or members, will begin to leave if we hold service, too long. Yes it is a different day in today’s times but, there must be clear direction, being willing to challenge the church world on our lack of addressing Marriage, the Breakdown of the Family and more. Our as Churches goal shouldn’t be to build Mega Churches and acquire thousands of members but, to provide a realistic, facts about living a saved life, and quit saying “ After all the Devil has done” these clichés and praise breaks have created mass deception while continue on with political formats and mass systematic formats oh! Shh!! Don’t saying
anything .
Dear Jo, I am at my wits end. I give and give and give. I give my time, my energy, and my finances and it seems that I get nothing in return. I don’t believe I am asking too much. I do not even receive a thank you from the one that asked for my assistance at times. It seems that it is taken for granted that I will do things when people call me. I feel like if I don’t do these things then they just will not get done. This has been proven time and time again. I am beginning to become resentful and hurt and desire to just run away for a while. I am just at the end of my rope. Can you give me any advice to get myself back. Signed, Truly tired and in of a break
Dear Truly, You have lost sight of the important thing, your relationship with God. Many times as Christians we can get caught up in the busy work of the “religion” and forget that the most important thing is the RELATIONSHIP. Your relationship with your Heavenly Father is more important than the next breath you are about to take in. Begin to cultivate that bond with God again. Make time for your Father. Quality time with Him will give you clarity of vision, stamina to go through, and the ability to discern what you should and shouldn’t do and why. By taking time to reconnect with your Father you will see realignment in your life. And peace will be yours and the blessings of the Lord will overtake you…according to His word. Dear Jo, I am a born again believer. I go to church regularly, I am committed to the ministry that I am a part of, and I pray and read my bible every day. Lately I have noticed that there is a longing in my heart for more. I am not sure what the malfunction is. I haven’t changed anything. I have been faithful to church and my time with god for years. Can you help me renew the zeal in my spirit? Signed, Just want to reconnect
Dear Reconnect, Just as a person trying to lose weight will plateau in their journey there are those times when we too in our walk can experience what seems like a place of halt. I have found that these places are usually the places referred to in the all so well-known poem “footprints in the sand” when the writer asked God why He would leave him alone in such bad times. But god shows that not only did He not leave us but carried us through the catastrophes of life. It is common to find yourself praying and feeling that your words are as lead bars emerging from your mouth and simply dropping to the floor with no way up to the ears of the Father. It’s easy to have feelings of abandonment and loneliness at these points and you just begin to ask “God can you hear me?” or “Father are you listening?” I like to refer to these places as praise plateaus. My Pastor, The illustrious Bishop Mark L. Gilkey KSW Jurisdiction, always encourages us that when we pray, to pray often, and stay there when you feel it and stay there when you don’t. He says that he has found that it is in the season of what seems as halt that God is moving things in your favor to answer your prayers. Once I grabbed hold of this truth, I began to use those times to cultivate my praise. The scriptures speak of the Sacrifice of Praise in Jer 33:11 and Heb 13:15. These are the times when it seems nothing is happening, nothing is going right, everything is coming against you, all is lost that you offer up praises of thanks giving knowing that god promises are for you even at these times. They are a sacrifice because who wants to give joyful praise when it seems our children are going against everything they have been taught, or your spouse has turned into another person completely? But the bible says that these praises please God. And He is faithful to come and see about you and bring you out of every bad situation and condition better than you went in. But the one thing that I found to really get me reconnected to that power of prayer was when I began to pray the scripture. When I would interject exactly what the bible said about me in a heartfelt prayer my praise quickly transformed from sacrificial to supernatural and I was soon in the presence of my Father. Yes, God knows what He says and thinks about you, but He loves to hear that YOU know what He says and thinks about you from you.
Dear Jo, I am 18. I love god with everything that I am. I love Him the best way I know how to. But I am finding that as soon as I gave my life to Him and truly committed to being exactly what He wanted me to be, the pangs of life turned into anguish and misery. Why does it seem life is so much harder now and what do I do?
Signed, Trying to survive
Dear Survivor, Pain is an ever present part of life whether you commit to God or you don’t. There is pain in the loss of a loved one. There is pain in changing places of residence and having to leave behind what you have grown accustomed to and great friends you may never see again. There is pain in rejection, in growth, and in physical fitness. Pain is something that is going to accompany us until we are home with our Father in heaven. It’s one of the things that make the commitment so appealing. To know that with the Father in heaven there is no more pain. The intensity that you are experiencing, is a direct result of two things… You have come to acknowledge you spiritual man. Once you began to recognize your Spirit and the reality that there is much more to this life on earth, you became a traitor to the enemy the devil and he waged all-out war on you and all that is connected to you. You literally became a threat to him and now it’s a battle to the end. He wants you back so he is going to throw every plot, plan, strategy, and obstacle at you possible to try to trip you up and cause you to fall and turn your back on your Father God. Your spirit and your flesh are at war and the desire to please your flesh can and will cause us deep pain. All those forms of pain I mentioned earlier are common to everyone that is living. But when you give your life over to the Father your focus becomes more acute and you realize that there are many other things that can threaten you relationship with your Father and you have to make choices that don’t feel good and often times hurt to the very core. Such as your connections. Though friends may have been with you for years, once you give your life to God many times you will lose friends because they may want to do things that are not pleasing to God and the way of Holiness. Sometimes you may have to trade up things that you love doing like sports or going out to the bar or club for bible study and evangelistic work. As you become closer to God and begin to experience more of what this life has to offer, you may experience pain when an old friend dies and they may not have gotten themselves right with God or a loved one refuses to even believe that God is real. The only thing to help with this pain and actually take it away is to cultivate your relationship with your Father God. The closer you get to Him the farther away the cares of the world will become. Learn how to praise Him that had saved you. The scripture say that God resides in our
praises and where He is there is no pain. You can literally praise your way out of any pain or situation that may be causing pain. As you praise Him and learn of Him though it will seem you are losing friends and loved ones He will bring you friends that will speak life into you and build you up instead of tear you down. Stay encouraged love, hold on to your Father with everything you have, remember that there is absolutely nothing that God cannot do, and He will do these things for you. Be blessed
Relationships today whether in Business
My good why? Because I gave my
or Personal have become base on self
best to each situation and provide in-
benefit and what I will receive from the con-
formation, and product to help each
nection which is the wrong intention why?
situation become better and what I
Because commitment is not based on what
learned is that when you create a
you receive it is what you provide this is
connection each time you do pay at-
rule of life, which has been forgotten in the
tention, that it may not be permanent
Church and even by people in general. Of-
connection, it may be for a temporary
ten times a potential chance for the Right
period of time and then you move on
Connection is lost when we as individuals
to another area and continue grow-
present those we encounter with the WIFM
ing. As individuals we have a ten-
(What’s In It For Me) attitude far too many
dency , to hold ourselves hostage by
times as human beings we are on the de-
trying to hang on to situations or rela-
fense when comes to giving our best to in-
tionships, when the connection was
dividuals or situations, simply because we
temporary and we try to make it a
don’t want to be used, well sometimes in
permanent one and the more we try
giving your best it won’t be a lasting rela-
to make it a permanent one the more
tionship, but it will be just a passing mo-
things seem to go wrong.
ment, in your life where you have to past
The right connection doesn’t always
the test of creating the Right Connection for
mean that it is permanent connection
that moment or short period in time the rea-
but, it was the Right Connection for
son why, I say that is because I encoun-
that time and that season.
tered, two situations a few years ago that taught me how to Create the Right Con-
Create the Right Connection in the
nection, and that the connection was for
Right Season!
True Repentance brings Restoration
Our idea of repentance can be defined in many ways. We define it as “change of mind”. As “change of heart”. Some say “turning away from sins”, still others say “turning of God’ or for the forgiveness of sins”. To some repentance is “wailing while reciting the sinner’s prayer” or beating their chest while looking down to ground depicting meekness”. Most of the time repentance is associated with an idea of a “sin to let go” and some good work to be performed”. Repentance means a sincere turning away, in both the mind and heart, from self to God. “Repent, then, and turn to God, so that your sins may be wiped out, that times of refreshing may come from the Lord” Acts 3:19 Repentance is the key to Spiritual Restoration! It is a Clarion Call which means an appeal, urgent call to action! This particular call is to the people of God, those of us that say we love God, those of us with titles and positions and those of us that say Lord, Lord. The Saints!
II Chronicle's 7:14 states: If my people which are called by my name, would humble themselves and pray, seek my face, turn from their wicked ways, then will I hear from heaven and will forgive their sins and heal their land. True Repentance brings True Restoration!
Special Guest Writer / Columnist Vernetta Dixon