DO PEOPLE THAT HEAR FROM GOD HAVE A MENTAL ILLNESS?

Recently on a well-known television talk show (ABC's “The View," which has over 3 million viewers each week day), it was stated that hearing the Lord speak to you was a sign of mental illness.[1] This was insulting to say the least.

It's nothing new however. Because even in the Garden of Eden Satan tried to get Eve to doubt whether she had heard from God or not. Because doubt set in; we now have this mess in the world of sickness, poverty and death.

Genesis 3:1. Now the serpent was more crafty than any of the wild animals the LORD God had made. He said to the woman, "DID GOD REALLY SAY, 'You must not eat from any tree in the garden'?"

Revelation 20:2. He seized the dragon, THAT ANCIENT SERPENT, WHO IS THE DEVIL, or Satan, and bound him for a thousand years.

You see, this statement on television was not an attack on the Church or Christianity; this was AN ATTACK AGAINST THE CHARACTER OF GOD! So for people that have had hope that God has spoken to them; now they're being told that they have some kind of mental illness, “Did God really say…?”

But, if God spoke to you; He WILL do as He promised. The Word says:

Numbers 23:19. God is not human, that he should lie, not a human being, that he should change his mind. Does he speak and then not act? Does he promise and not fulfill?

The questions before us today is (1) does God still speak to people (2) if so - who does He talk to and (3) how does He talk?

Is hearing God, Satan, demons and angels a sign of mental illness? Hearing voices can be a common type of auditory hallucination. The voices in auditory hallucinations can be pleasant or threatening. Hearing voices can be associated with some psychiatric disorders or medical conditions, including: bipolar disorder, psychotic depression, schizoid and schizotypal personality disorders, and schizophrenia.

Medical conditions affecting the central nervous system, such as brain tumors, delirium, dementia, epilepsy and other seizure disorders, and stroke, can be associated with hearing voices.[2]

BUT, all of this does NOT mean and does NOT prove that a person is mentally ill because God spoke to them. First, does God still speak to people? Yes, He does! The Word says so:

Hebrews 1:1-2. 1In the past God spoke to our ancestors through the prophets at many times and in various ways, 2but in these last days he has spoken to us by his Son, whom he appointed heir of all things, and through whom also he made the universe.

Second, who does God talk to? He speaks to His prophets and to His people:

Amos 3:7. Surely the LORD God will do nothing, but he revealeth his secret unto his servants the prophets.

Hebrews 3:15. As has just been said: "Today, if you hear his voice, do not harden your hearts as you did in the rebellion."

Finally, how does God talk? God speaks through the Word and sometimes even prophecy. But, remember, He will also many times remain VERY silent. Such was the case when Jesus was on the Cross:

Matthew 27:46-49. 46About three in the afternoon Jesus cried out in a loud voice, "Eli, Eli, lema sabachthani?" (which means "My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?"). 47When some of those standing there heard this, they said, "He's calling Elijah." 48Immediately one of them ran and got a sponge. He filled it with wine vinegar, put it on a staff, and offered it to Jesus to drink. 49The rest said, "Now leave him alone. Let's see if Elijah comes to save him."

Yet, even though Jesus did not hear from His Father on the Cross; He endured till the end, for our salvation. So whether you ever hear God speak or not; just know that He has spoken through His Word (which is the Holy Bible)!

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[1] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_View_(talk_show). (Accessed, February 21, 2018).

[2] https://www.healthgrades.com/symptoms/hearing-voices (Accessed, February 17, 2018

EVANGELIST BILLY GRAHAM HAS PASSED AWAY!

Our thoughts and prayers are with the family, loved ones and ministry of Rev. Billy Graham; who was one of the most effective evangelists of our time. Rev. Graham's influence was felt from the working class to the White House.

For many years Rev. Graham  held crusades in large auditoriums around the world; preaching a simple message of salvation through the atoning work of Jesus Christ and winning multitudes to
Christ. The Billy Graham Evangelistic Association continues to provide effective means of reaching this generation with the Gospel of Jesus Christ.

Dr. Graham has also had a major indirect influence on the direction, vision and structure of the International Department of Evangelism of the Church Of God In Christ. Thus, we salute this 5 Star General in the Body of Christ; who has gone on before us to meet the Savior that he served for so many years.

IS IT EVER RIGHT FOR A PREACHER TO OPENLY EMBARRASS A MUSICIAN?

I came across a controversy (on my social media timeline) regarding a well-known bishop; requesting "another musician," in the middle of his (the bishop's) preaching. Controversies on social media are "a dime a dozen." And, there are just as many opinions being expressed. However, what struck a nerve with me, was when so many "uniformed" people began to downgrade "whooping" as "entertainment" or putting on a "show."

Granted, I agree that you do have a lot of performers in the pulpit. But, many of us are sincere; and do not approach the pulpit with a mind to "pull it." Every preacher's "whooping" is not pre-planned. Personally, I never get up to preach with a mind to "whoop." The Word just gets good to me and that ends up being the result. 

Yes, whether you call it "whooping," "squalling," "growling, "pulling it," etc; it is DEFINITELY an Afro-Centric cultural expression of the Gospel. And, there is NOTHING wrong with a cultural expression. There is NOTHING ignorant about a cultural expression. To downgrade and criticize it, is all a part of the long-term agenda of the West to develop self-hatred among those of African descent. Much like how we were FALSELY taught in school that Africa was the "dark" continent and everyone there lived in jungles and fought lions. 

We were also taught that any kind of emotion shown in a worship service was primitive or "show." To shout or "whoop" was considered an inferior worship style. Blacks were encouraged to "tone it down" and acquiesce to Western culture (to become more stoic, "dignified" and planned). That is also completely FALSE; there is NOTHING wrong with emotion and expression. 

People will say that Jesus never shouted nor got emotional. That's a poor argument. There are a lot of things Jesus didn't do. For example, Jesus NEVER WENT TO CHURCH! (Church buildings did not exist until at least 350 years after His ascension). So to say for people not to go to church because Jesus did not do it, would be preposterous. But, for those who say that Jesus never raised His voice while preaching, nor became emotional; please allow me to share with you what the Word says...

John 7:37 New Living Translation (NLT). On the last day, the climax of the festival, JESUS STOOD AND SHOUTED TO THE CROWDS, “Anyone who is thirsty may come to me!

Luke 10:21 The Message (MSG). At that, JESUS REJOICED, EXUBERANT in the Holy Spirit. 

The word exuberant is defined as, “filled with or characterized by a lively energy and excitement.” Thus, Jesus was not the stoic lecturer as Western culture would lead you to believe. At times He became LOUD and EMOTIONAL. Eastern culture was and is quite emotional and expressive.

The "call and response" that you see in the black church (where the congregation "talks back" to the preacher and the church "gets with" the choir) is THE SAME as that found in the culture of the Bible. Notice the following passages, where the congregation did not sit quietly as the preacher gave a lecture; they RESPONDED to what he had to say:

Exodus 19:8. THE PEOPLE ALL RESPONDED TOGETHER, "We will do everything the LORD has said." So Moses brought their answer back to the LORD.

Exodus 24:3. When Moses went and told the people all the LORD's words and laws, THEY RESPONDED with one voice, "Everything the LORD has said we will do."

Exodus 24:7. Then he took the Book of the Covenant and read it to the people. THEY RESPONDED, "We will do everything the LORD has said; we will obey."

Psalm 106:48. Praise be to the LORD, the God of Israel, from everlasting to everlasting. LET ALL THE PEOPLE SAY, "AMEN!" Praise the LORD.

Now a person may furthermore argue and say, "Hankerson, I can get the 'call and response' part; but where in the Bible do you have it where a musician 'backs up' a preacher?" According to the Scriptures, the music ministry is closely related to the ministry of the proclaimed Word:

2 Kings 3:15-16 English Standard Version (ESV). 15 But now bring me a musician.” AND WHEN THE MUSICIAN PLAYED, THE HAND OF THE LORD CAME UPON HIM. 16 AND HE SAID, “THUS SAYS THE LORD, ‘I will make this dry streambed full of pools.’

THE BIBLE IS RIGHT! Again, we must remember that the culture of the Bible and the origin of Black culture is from the East. Stories and facts were passed down orally through song and 'call and response,' long before they were written down. To do so was NOT ignorant. This is also historically how information and theology has been passed down through the black church experience. To not recognize this fact; is really what IS ignorant.

Now, to the question at hand; is it ever right for a preacher to openly embarrass a musician. While I cannot address the specifies of the viral video (because I was not there); as a preacher, I will say that there have been many times that I have had to (discreetly) ask a musician to stop playing while I am preaching (Note: that I can preach without music). Normally, it is due to the fact that they are distracted (on their cell phone for example - even as many preachers are guilty of same thing) or their skill level is more of a distraction than an asset. (Honestly speaking: I have even come across some musicians high on "weed," WHILE THEY ARE PLAYING in a worship service!) The Bible states that music should be played with excellence:

Psalm 33:3. Sing to him a new song; PLAY SKILLFULLY, and shout for joy.

Yes, the Bible does admonish us to be kind to each other; which would cause us to avoid seeking to embarrass anyone before hundreds of people:

Luke 6:31. Do to others as you would have them do to you.

Romans 12:10. King James Version (KJV). BE KINDLY AFFECTIONED ONE TO ANOTHER with brotherly love; in honour preferring one another.

But, in the time that we live in, that sense of community, family and brotherhood has eroded from the church. We treat church as a business now; not as the family of God. Yes, you must have business and administration in the church; but many preachers will not preach now without a signed contract guaranteeing a certain amount of money - and for many musicians a worship service is nothing more than a "gig" to make money. While I do believe the laborer is worthy of his wages (1 Timothy 5:18); SHAME on BOTH the preacher and the musician who would only focus on the "Almighty Dollar."

So since we have (in many cases) eroded to a business relationship only in the church; there may be cases where the "employer" just may make an open demand of an "employee," which can be embarrassing. Thus, it is up to the "employee" to pay attention and do what is necessary to keep the "boss man" happy. Thus, the musician would need to pay attention to key changes, cues from the preacher, etc., and not be distracted. The Bible also addresses this:

Ephesians 6:5-8 The Passion Translation (TPT). 5 Those who are employed should listen to their employers and obey their instructions with great respect and honor. Serve them with humility in your hearts as though you were working for the Master. 6 Always do what is right and not only when others are watching, so that you may please Christ as his servants by doing his will. 7 Serve your employers wholeheartedly and with love, as though you were serving Christ and not men. 8 Be assured that anything you do that is beautiful and excellent will be repaid by our Lord, whether you are an employee or an employer.

Share your thoughts below in the comment section.

WAS BISHOP C. H. MASON AGAINST WOMEN IN MINISTRY?

Tonight during an interview, I was asked about my views on women in ministry. According to Acts 2, the Bible says that in the last days "sons and daughters would prophesy." With prophecy in the text, simply meaning, "to proclaim." I then went a little deeper and discussed what I perceive to be the views of the late Bishop Charles Harrison Mason (founder of the Church Of God In Christ) on women in ministry.

Apparently, Bishop Mason did not have a major deal against it. First, Bishop Mason was known as a praying man. This prayer life was inherited from his mother (who had been a slave). According to an interview I had with Bishop's daughter ("Tiny" Mason), his entire quest in life was to, "recapture the prayer life of the slaves." Thus, the major thrust of Mason's ministry was inspired by a woman.

Second, Bishop Mason received ordination in the Baptist church. He was a devout Baptist minister; but soon felt that something was missing in his walk with God. Word was spreading around the South about the "Holiness Movement."

Bishop Mason (Rev. Mason at the time) read a book by an ORDAINED Methodist woman, regarding her experience with the Holiness Movement." The book is entitled: AN AUTOBIOGRAPHY: THE STORY OF THE LORD'S DEALING WITH MRS. AMANDA SMITH, THE COLOURED EVANGELIST. After reading this book, Rev. Mason claimed sanctification and became a Holiness preacher. 

Third, when now "Elder" Mason traveled to "Azusa Street" in Los Angeles, California to receive the gift of the Holy Ghost; that local ministry (under Bishop William J. Seymour) made no distinction between male and female, in regard to ministry. It was in this environment that Bishop Mason was filled with the Holy Ghost. 

Many of Bishop Mason's churches and jurisdictions were "worked out" by women in ministry. For example, Mother Rhetha Herndon (the first Elect Lady of the International Department of Evangelism) was responsible (along with her sister) in founding over 70 Churches Of God In Christ. 

So where did the resistance to women in ministry originate. First, many of Bishop Mason's original leaders had migrated from the Baptist church (where there was no such thing as a woman in ministry). Even though Mason had little issue with it; the brethren were quite resistant to female "missionaries" and "evangelists."

Second, Mother Lizzie Robinson (our first General Mother) was also very indoctrinated in a Baptist background. She felt that there was a particular place that women should stay in. She had strong influence in the Church Of God In Christ. Her advice to Bishop Mason was not to ordain the ladies, but for them to be "helpers" in the ministry. Her opinion prevailed and that is where much of the resistance toward women in ministry originated from.

But, I would venture to say that it was not that big of a deal to Bishop C. H. Mason.Bishop Mason kept women that could "pull it" (using a modern day slang term) around and provided ample opportunities for them. 

Your thoughts on the views of Bishop Mason?

ARE NON CHRISTIANS GOING TO BURN IN HELL FOR ETERNITY?

My "lives" on social media are starting to garner a significant audience. This is due to the fact that
we take the Bible (God's Word) and offer biblical answers to today's perplexing issues. Please
spread the word and join me for my next "live" on Tuesday at 6 PM Central. This teaching will cover
the subject of Hell. It seems that with the rise of the "Gospel of Inclusion" and the new movie coming
out in April (on the life and ministry of Bishop Carlton Pearson) we need to have a "refresher course"
on this topic.

Ask yourself the following questions: Does Hell exist? Does God send people there? Are
Christians the only ones going to Heaven? Is Jesus the only way to salvation? What about the
millions of people that have never heard of Jesus? Or people raised up in other religions?
What about nations where Christianity is illegal? Will these people burn in Hell?

Join me for the answers Tuesday night! The "live" will air simultaneously on Facebook, Periscope
and Instagram. Just in case you miss; you can see the recording on my YouTube channel.
Again, please spread the word, using the hashtags: #EHH3 #LCIC #SLMCC #MMEJ #COGICIDOE.
Thanks!

Twitter: @ElijahHankerson

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Blog: everytimeiturnaround.blogspot.com

THE GOSPEL ACCORDING TO SNOOP DOGG?!

I am familiar with who "Snoop Dogg" is; however, I cannot honestly say that I have ever listened to or heard any of his music. From the looks of it; I am certain I would not enjoy it. For this writing I did view a few samples of his Gospel album. I have quite a few personal friends on it - and the tunes (music wise) were a little catchy.

But, frankly speaking, at this point in my life, I do not listen to ANY music very much now. With the direction Gospel music has gone in the last few years (less "churchy" and less inspirational); I have completely lost interest. Every now and then I have a computerized file of Gospel music I'll listen to; primarily from the era of the 80's to mid 90's. My kids say it sounds old.

Nevertheless, even though the Church often teaches against listening to "worldly" music; we know that many church people do (including listening to Snoop Dogg).  I was a well known (in St Louis) radio minister for close to 15 years; it was a known fact: people do NOT listen to AM Gospel radio stations en masse - they listen to FM R & B stations. That's where the people are (churched and non churched). 

Whether the young man (Snoop Dogg) is sincere or not in  lifting up the name of Jesus; I cannot tell. I do not know him personally; so I cannot speak to that. Proverbs 18:13 says, "To answer before listening- that is folly and shame."

But, making a Gospel album would not be his idea anyway. It would be the brainchild of his producers and record label. Those are the real bosses who call the shots; NOT the artist. I can guarantee you, the producers are NOT looking to lift up the name of Jesus. Their ONLY concern is the "almighty dollar" and broadening their market to make more money. If God chooses to work through this, in spite of that fact; so be it.

It's a known fact that religion generates money; and that black people are very religious. Throw the name of Jesus or a Bible on something and we will assume a person "got religion" and we will spend money to support it.
Again, it is all about the "almighty dollar." Using religion to make money. That may sound almost blasphemous. But, let's be honest. We do the exact same thing in church!!! For example, we will have a worship service - with the sole purpose of raising money. 

That's just the facts of a capitalist, free market society. I personally dislike capitalism, as it generates: classism, the "haves" and the "have nots," exploitation of the poor, etc. I wish there was some other economic system viable for our nation. But, capitalism is the better alternative to the other choices (for example: feudalism, communism and socialism). 

Thus, this album is going to make the record company, the producers and the artists a LOT of money. I can safely assume that no one on those record teams are concerned about winning souls. But, again, there are some preachers, Gospel artists and church musicians who also have NO concern for souls; only engagements, gigs and making money. The Bible addresses this; letting us know that, in responding to Snoop Dogg's album, (1) we Christians need to check our own motives:

1 Timothy 6:5. These people always cause trouble. Their minds are corrupt, and they have turned their backs on the truth. To them, a show of godliness is just a way to become wealthy.

All of this (a secular artist making a Gospel album) is a masterful publicity stunt. Most people are consumers and not producers. It's working, because everyone is talking about it. The more people talk, the more people listen to the album to find out what the fuss is all about. More people buying the music leads to (you guessed it): more MONEY. 

So all the discussing, addressing, and arguing we are doing over social media is just free advertisement. Every click, like and hashtag translates into a dollar sign. We are literally falling for a PR trick. So, our response to this album is (2) Christians need to stop being gullible and falling for every publicity trick: 

2 Corinthians 2:11 In order that Satan might not outwit us. For we are not unaware of his schemes.

This is also nothing new. For example, Janet Jackson had a "wardrobe malfunction" which got people to talking about her music. Miley Cyrus infamously started twerking on national TV. The controversy and discussions that followed were only FREE ADVERTISEMENT for a new album she had coming out. People fell for these publicity tricks. 

I do not know the young man (Snoop Dogg) personally. I have no idea of his experience with Christianity. That's hard to decipher: because producers will have you saying and doing all things outside of YOUR character, to portray who THEY (the producers) want you to be - so that they can make money (as I stated earlier). I mean, I am SURE that his mother did NOT name him "Snoop Dogg." That's just a stage name and stage persona. Only God, close friends and family would know THE PERSON behind the artist. To my understanding his real name is, "Calvin Cordozar Broadus, Jr."

But, by the same token, just because a person says they are a "Gospel artist" does NOT in any way make them more saintly. The Gospel industry has its fair share of scandals, indiscretions, etc. And this is NOT anything new. In a documentary, the late Ray Charles spoke about "sleeping" with people in the Gospel industry. He said, "the church people that sang Gospel, were more 'freaky' than the people in secular music." 

One lady that was a "queen" in religious music (I grew up seeing her saintly picture on church fans) was known to "cuss like a sailor." Drugs, alcohol, fornication, homosexuality, lesbianism (and the list goes on), in regard to sins named among many of this in the Gospel industry and ministry. 

Therefore,  our response to this album is (3) the world is going to live dirty and nasty; it's the Church that needs to clean up and live right:

Matthew 7:5 You hypocrite, first take the plank out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to remove the speck from your brother's eye.

Ephesians 5:3 But among you there must not be even a hint of sexual immorality, or of any kind of impurity, or of greed, because these are improper for God's holy people.

James 4:8 Come near to God and he will come near to you. Wash your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, you double-minded.

The Church has lived in such hypocrisy, that there is very little respect for it anymore. Any producer or agency would think twice before saying anything about Allah, Muhammed or Islam; because the backlash would be horrendous. Muslims worldwide would unite like crazy and fight a common enemy. But, what are we Christians doing? Fighting like a bunch of imbeciles; while the world observes, sits back and laughs and counts their MONEY. The response of the Church (4) should be to unite: 

Acts 4:32 All the believers were one in heart and mind. 

In summary, the Church's response should be to:
(1) Check our own motives.
(2) Stop being naive 
(3) Clean up our own lives
(4) Unite

PRESIDING BISHOP CHARLES E BLAKE AND THE $10 MILLION DOLLAR HOME!

First, what qualifies me to talk on this subject? The answer is my family's long standing relationship with West Angeles Church Of God In Christ and Presiding Bishop Charles E. Blake, Sr.

West Angeles (in Los Angeles, California) was founded by Pastor Clarence Church in 1943. Clarence Church was from St Louis, Missouri. When he left St Louis (with a band of saints) to head West; I had family members that were among his flock (and served as founding members of West Angeles).

During Church's tenure, West Angeles grew to a membership of 500 (a BIG church for that day) and built a beautiful church on West Adams Blvd in Los Angeles. Once Elder Church died, there was a struggle between the congregation and the bishop; regarding the leadership of the church. In the Church Of God In Christ, the bishop appoints the pastor. This is a struggle for some who feel like it is their church and the bishop should not have that say so. The infighting caused the membership to dwindle from 500 to 50.

This was the case with West Angeles in 1969. Bishop Samuel Crouch was serving as Jurisdictional Bishop at the time. Many of the members felt that they (including some of my family members) had mortgaged their personal homes to build West Angeles; and no bishop had the right to come in and dictate regarding what they had worked hard for. It was nothing personal against (the then) Elder Charles E. Blake, Sr.

Nevertheless, when Bishop Crouch marched in with Elder Blake, to appoint him (Blake) as the pastor; the members were dead set against it. Many people have heard the infamous story of how Bishop Crouch walked out of the meeting and told Elder Blake, "It's yours my boy," and how Elder Blake asked the congregation to "Give me a chance." Not only did West Angeles give the young Elder a chance; but that young Elder proved what God will do, with a vessel that is yielded and willing for God to use him.

The then "Elder" Blake was known to be different from the other preachers. While other preachers were socializing; this young man was reading books and attending seminars on how to grow his church. Even though the church tripled in the first few years of the "Blake administration," it was in the late 70's that the growth was exponential. The church had to increase from two to four morning services (not including the Sunday evening service). Membership exploded from 3,000 to 9,000 to 15,000 and eventually over 25,000 members. Annual church income topped over $15 million dollars. Eventually, the $65 million West Angeles Cathedral was built (and it is just about paid for).

How did the church grow? Yes, Bishop Blake has always been a dynamic speaker. Yes, West Angeles has always had a superb music ministry. But, while preaching and singing has always been a hallmark for the black church; West Angeles grew through programs. Bishop Blake's philosophy was that if your offer programs for the community; the people will realize that, "that church is the place to go to get your needs met."

Thus, Bishop Blake and West Angeles have been committed to providing jobs (over 200 people are employed through the church, providing low income housing (through their Community Development Corporation), and, so many other things have benefited the community. Bishop Blake and West Angeles are highly revered in Los Angeles. It's just sad that when we as black people have exceptional leaders in the community we are the first to tear them down. Those outside of the black community can sit back and watch us foolishly fight each other. This is why it's so hard for blacks in America to advance. Old "Massa" sure did a work on us blacks. We are so divided, all these years after slavery.

Where do we get it from that preachers have to be poor? I am not a "prosperity preacher." But, I do not believe in being broke either. Some may say that Jesus was poor. But, remember (1) he had a treasurer and (2) he had a group of women that underwrote the bills for His ministry! Oh boy! Can you imagine the headlines on social media that people would have about Jesus; a single man with a group of women paying his bills? I've got Bible:

John 13:29 Since Judas had charge of the money, some thought Jesus was telling him to buy what was needed for the festival, or to give something to the poor.

Luke 8:1-3 After this, Jesus traveled about from one town and village to another, proclaiming the good news of the kingdom of God. The Twelve were with him, ²and also some women who had been cured of evil spirits and diseases: Mary (called Magdalene) from whom seven demons had come out; ³Joanna the wife of Chuza, the manager of Herod's household; Susanna; and many others. These women were helping to support them out of their own means.

So Jesus did not need to personally have tons of money. He had both supporters and staff to manage the resources. Not only that, but most scholars believe that Jesus' "headquarters" of his ministry was in Capernaum. The apostle Peter's house was at Capernaum. And it is believed that this is where Jesus resided (Matthew 8:14; Mark 1:29-31).

I have personally been to Capernaum many times and have seen the ruins of Peter's house. Let me say it this way: Peter had a HUGE house. His house was almost as big as the city synagogue. Furthermore, it was so big that a big Catholic church has been built over the house's ruins. If you do not believe me; go to Israel, visit Capernaum and see it for yourself. Can you imagine the talk on social media (if it would have existed at that time) about Jesus staying in this huge house or about Peter and his big mansion?

No wonder Peter had some issues, regarding being gone from his household so much for 3 and 1/2 years to follow Jesus' itinerant ministry. Jesus promised Peter that he (Peter) would be repaid in the hereafter and the NOW with houses and other things:

Matthew 19:27-29 Peter answered him, "We have left everything to follow you! What then will there be for us?" ²⁸Jesus said to them, "Truly I tell you, at the renewal of all things, when the Son of Man sits on his glorious throne, you who have followed me will also sit on twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel. ²⁹And everyone who has left houses or brothers or sisters or father or mother or wife or children or fields for my sake will receive a hundred times as much and will inherit eternal life.

The Bible also exhorts that ministers who do a good job at presenting the Gospel and caring for God's people should be paid adequately:

1 Corinthians 9:14 In the same way, the LORD has commanded that those who preach the gospel should receive their living from the Gospel.

Galatians 6:6 Nevertheless, the one who receives instruction in the word should share all good things with their instructor.

I personally know that Bishop Blake does not "charge" to preach like some of these modern day "wonders." He graciously receives whatever he is given. He does not "demand" that you fly him in a private jet or first class. Most people do not know that when he receives large honorariums, not only does he publicly give most of it back; but, after preaching, he then goes to the office and donates an even larger sum to the hosting ministry. Hmmm. I wonder why that is not discussed on social media?

Yes, you do have some no good preachers that steal money, take advantage of the people and are wolves in sheep's clothing. But, ENOUGH IS ENOUGH, with people taking all preachers and putting them in the same boat. Everyone is not a hireling. You do have preachers that sacrifice, work jobs, work themselves to the bone; and you ALSO HAVE people that take advantage of that as well.

I have found that out for myself; after being the ministry 30 of my 45 years of life. People will take advantage of a minister and think nothing of it. I remember offering free counseling and weddings to people as a service to the community. Then word spread around town and people started taking advantage of it. I have paid for years of undergraduate and graduate schooling to professionally do what I do. You will pay the caterer, pay for a hall, pay the wedding coordinator, pay for the invitations; then when it comes to me offering weeks of classes (counseling) and a wedding, you want it for free? And, the devil is a liar! So if a man works hard, invests, manages properly, tends to the people of God and the Lord blesses him with a $10 million dollar house: I am happy for him!

Most people say that their tithes should not cover that. But, in the average church, only 20% of the people are tithing; and that is NOT consistently. Thus, many preachers have to work jobs and establish investments.  That's what I have done. I worked a job for 17 years (even WHILE being a bishop and a national officer). So it's foolish of people to refer to, "all these preachers taking the tithes." Do not incriminate all preachers; because of a few rotten apples.

A few years ago I had bought a nice car (a red BMW 325I). People had something to say about it. Something along the lines of the tithes paying going for my car. I did not take it sitting down. At that time I was a radio minister. I got on the air and stated, "I work a job. You people complaining don't pay tithes in the first place. I get my money from my job. It's mine. And, if I want to take my money and put it in the middle of Union Boulevard and burn it; you have NOTHING to say about it." Needless to say; the talk ceased after that. We have no idea how the bishop has worked or invested to acquire his estate. And, from what I personally know; his income has been earned fair and square.

Why do we as a people want something for nothing? Just because a pastor or church "gives to the community" does not mean that the community will reciprocate to that church or minister. At my own church, we have given away as much as 15,000 toys per year to the needy during Christmas, over 3,000 turkeys to the needy at Thanksgiving and feed over 200 people every week. Yet, when our church was broken into (4 times in 18 months) NO ONE from that same community knew anything or saw anything. Yeah right (sarcastic tone)! So you can do everything for the community and people will still complain or not support the work of the Lord. So if a man acquires a nice house; more power to him.

Also, for everyone talking, has anyone taken the time to compare the cost of living between Beverly Hills and other locations in the United States? Watch this: a decent 3 bedroom 2 bath house in St Louis, Missouri can be bought for $55,000. That same house in Beverly Hills (as a fixer upper) will run you $1.6 million! A 7 bedroom house in Beverly Hills (like the one pictured) will run you $10 million. You can get that same type of house in St Louis for $800,000. Zip code and location means a lot. Someone may ask, "Why then live in Beverly Hills?" Well, last I checked the United States is a free country and a man can live wherever he chooses.

In summary, (1) as black people we need to stop publicly fighting each other. If we have a problem with someone contact them, set up a meeting and voice our concerns. But, we look IGNORANT to outsiders, fighting with each other out in the public. And, most of the complaining I hear is covetousness and jealousy. We say we want better jobs and living conditions. Then when someone gets it we fight him/her. What sense does that make? (2) If a person does a great job at what they do; they have a right to enjoy the benefits, just like anyone else does on their job. Ecclesiastes 3:13 says, "And people should eat and drink and enjoy the fruits of their labor, for these are gifts from God." Bishop Blake is almost 80 years old and has pastored the same church successfully for 49 years. I think anyone that has worked on a job for almost half a century deserves a nice place to stay.

The Bishop has made it known that he has downsized drastically; as it is just Lady Mae Blake and he in the household now. But, if he went and acquired a $20 million house with 14 bathrooms; I would yet be happy for him.