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I love listening to worship music. . . . . music that exalts God, proclaims the Good News of Jesus Christ, and ministers to my soul.
But one thing that I have noticed is that over the years, as I learn more about the Lord and grow spiritually, I have become more and more selective when it comes to the worship music that I listen to.
Songs that I use to like, I no longer listen to because as I grew in God’s word and gained discernment, I eventually realized that the lyrics weren’t sound.
In some cases, the lyrics were man-centered and self-centered rather than Christ-centered, even though Jesus’ name and terms from the Bible were sprinkled throughout the lyrics. It made me wonder, who is really being worshiped here? The creature or the Creator?
Of course, there are some Christian music artists who seem sincere and have remained true to the teachings of Jesus Christ.
But it seems like there are many more music artists who use the ‘Gospel’ music industry as a marketing tool to promote themselves and pursue fame, wealth, praise from men, power and high-standing in the world.
I have heard people lament that the black ‘Gospel’ music industry has gone downhill. And that is most certainly true. The apostasy (the falling away of professing Christians) can be seen in the decline of black ‘Gospel’ music.
But I’m not sure if the black ‘Gospel’ music industry was ever faithful to the Lord and His word. When I look at all of the bad fruit that has come out of the black ‘Gospel’ music industry, to me, this indicates that the roots of the tree are bad as well.
“A good tree produces good fruit, and a bad tree produces bad fruit. A good tree can’t produce bad fruit, and a bad tree can’t produce good fruit. So every tree that does not produce good fruit is chopped down and thrown into the fire. Yes, just as you can identify a tree by its fruit, so you can identify people by their actions.” (Matthew 7:17-20)
James Cleveland, the “king of Gospel,” was an unrepentant homosexual who had a thing for fatherless young boys and eventually died of AIDS.
Bobby Jones, the “Ambassador of Gospel music,” has yet to voice a clear stance on homosexuality, and strangely enough, appeared in a homosexual-affirming movie called “Dirty Laundry” which was produced by homosexual activists Keith Boykins and his male lover Nathan Williams.
This is just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to the questionable figures who laid the foundation and sowed the seeds of what has grown into the modern-day black ‘Gospel’ music industry.
None of this surprises me. After all, it IS an industry, which by definition makes it a profit-making enterprise.
Like the secular music industry, the foremost concern of the black ‘Gospel’ music industry is financial gain — not wholesome character, not glorifying the Lord, not edifying God’s people, and not reaching the lost with the Good News of Jesus Christ.
The black ‘Gospel’ music industry is no ‘holier’ than the secular music industry. In fact, it might be worse, because it is presented as being “anointed” “from God” “safer” and “cleaner” than secular music, when in fact, it is more deceptive than secular music because it teaches professing Christians to worship themselves under the guise of “worshiping God.”
There is something “extra sinister” about a music industry that professes the name of Jesus Christ while glorifying self, unrepentant homosexuals, adulterers, pedophiles, sociopaths, false prophets, self-absorbed sensual divas, materialism, and a false ‘gospel’ of ‘Christian hedonism.’
“You should know this, Timothy, that in the last days there will be very difficult times. For people will love only themselves and their money. They will be boastful and proud, scoffing at God, disobedient to their parents, and ungrateful. They will consider nothing sacred. They will be unloving and unforgiving; they will slander others and have no self-control. They will be cruel and hate what is good. They will betray their friends, be reckless, be puffed up with pride, and love pleasure rather than God. They will act religious, but they will reject the power that could make them godly. Stay away from people like that!” (2 Timothy 3:1-5)
The Black ‘Gospel’ Music Industry Doesn’t Care About Women & Children
As the list of ‘Gospel’ music artists exposed in scandals gets longer, the list of ‘Gospel’ music artists that I listen to gets shorter.
I have tried to keep hope alive and see the glass half full, but I have finally decided to throw in the towel.
I can no longer support this twisted twilight zone of evil and religious hypocrisy which blasphemes the name of Jesus Christ, makes merchandise of men, and celebrates perverse and violent men.
Of course, I don’t require that a person is sinless and perfect in order for me to support their music. But I do draw a distinct line in the sand when a person promotes a false ‘gospel,’ a false god or a false christ, is a sexual predator, or inflicts violence on women and children.
As far as I’m concerned, people who engage in these behaviors are operating in another spirit, not the Holy Spirit, and their demonic behaviors eclipse and overshadow their musical talent.
I don’t care how many riffs and runs a person can sing, how great of a writer they are, or how good their beats sound if they exalt a false god or a false christ, a false ‘gospel,’ sexually assault anyone, or inflict violence on anyone.
The black ‘Gospel’ music industry on the other hand, continues to promote and celebrate individuals who do all of these things — making it abundantly clear that it values money, talent, and entertainment over human lives, truth, and Jesus Christ.
I’m done.
I cannot do this anymore.
I’m over it.
Here were the two final nails in the coffin: Sherman Allen and James Fortune.
Sherman Allen claims to be the “pastor” “apostle” and “prophet” of Christ Cathedral Church in Arlington, Texas.
What’s wrong with that?
Numerous documented assaults have been noted at the hands of Sherman Allen.
Eight women have alleged that Allen beat them, sexually assaulted them, and even practiced occultism (voodoo rituals, hypnotism, magic or illusions, and healing potions).
One of Allen’s victims was only 13 years old when her mother gave Allen permission to “discipline her.” She miscarried as a result of his vicious attack.
The allegations of sexual assault and beatings go all the way back to May 25, 1983 when Allen was the 22-year-old “pastor” of Allen Memorial Spiritual Pentecostal Church in Fort Worth, Texas. Read more by clicking here.
Each year, Sherman Allen hosts a pathetic “prophetic” summit in the Dallas-Fort Worth area.
The February 2013 ‘prophetic’ event was headlined by ‘Gospel’ music artists Myron Williams, Tasha Cobbs, Michelle Prather, Marquinn Middleton & the Miracle Chorale.
What were so-called ‘Gospel’ artists doing at the ‘prophetic’ event of an alleged serial rapist and abuser?
Why do they continue to support someone who is known for assaulting women and children?
Why do they refuse to separate themselves from him as 1 Corinthians 5:9-13 commands?
Now onto James Fortune.
James Fortune is a Grammy-nominated ‘Gospel’ artist, songwriter, and producer from Houston, Texas.
According to a civil lawsuit, “Fortune burned his stepson leaving the boy disfigured with severe burns over nearly 50% of the child’s body. Fortune, who is from and still lives in the Houston area, is named in the lawsuit with his wife Cheryl Fortune.
According to the suit filed against the couple, James picked up Cheryl’s 4-year old son from pre-school and the teacher said the boy “misbehaved by coloring on a table”. The documents claim the gospel singer “scolded the toddler” on the way home, put him in time out at home, “continued to yell and berate the child” then started “preparing a scalding bath” for the 4-year old boy.
The lawsuit goes on to say “James instructed (the child) to remove his clothes and began to whip the naked toddler with a switch”. Then the suit accuses James Fortune of “pushing the toddler in the scalding water and holding him down causing second and third degree burns to 47% of his body”. The little boy was flown by “life flight to Memorial Hermann Hospital. The doctors determined the injuries were too extensive and the boy was flown by life flight to Shriners Burn Hospital in Galveston where he remained for 63 days” according to the lawsuit.
The boy has had “numerous skin graft operations to both hands, legs, buttocks and genitals and is permanently disfigured”. Child Protective Services was called and charges were filed. That all happened in 2001. In 2003 James Fortune pled guilty to felony Injury To a Child and received 6-years deferred adjudication.
That 4-year old boy is now 15-years old and his biological father is suing the Fortunes for five million dollars. The family says that money would be used to pay for plastic surgery to correct the boy’s disfigurement from the burns.” (the original article can be found here)
And now, James Fortune is in court AGAIN. This time for a domestic violence incident involving his wife Cheryl — the stepmother of the young boy who was permanently disfigured with second and third degree burns by James Fortune. Yes. . . she stayed with him. . . .
According to court documents, Cheryl Fortune is the “complaining witness” supporting the charge against him of aggravated assault family violence. He was booked on October 23, and posted the $20,000 bond the next day.
A Fort Bend County, Texas criminal court has awarded supervised child visitation to James Fortune. The order establishes that visitation will take place at an address other than Fortune’s residence and with the presence of one of two persons named in the order.
Even after beating and burning a helpless child and allegedly assaulting his wife, the black ‘Gospel’ music industry continues to show James Fortune unwavering support.
On January 25, 2015, various ‘Gospel’ music artists performed at a “Restoration Praise Celebration” for James Fortune.
Excuse me?? A ‘restoration’ from what to where??
To my knowledge, James Fortune denies all allegations that he assaulted his wife. So if, as he claims, he didn’t beat his wife and he’s innocent of the charges, then he doesn’t need to be “restored.” Right?
I know I’m not the only person who sees that this doesn’t make sense.
Restoration is not for the innocent, but for those who committed a serious offense.
True restoration requires confession of sin, turning away from that sin, and making things right with whoever was harmed. Yet James Fortune has not done any of this. So he has not and cannot be restored to anything.
This “restoration praise service” was a vain attempt to justify James Fortune before his fans and make it seem as if God has elevated him, “restored him back to ministry,” “given him the victory” or “brought him through a storm.” In essence, it was a phony “prodigal son” celebration.
Throwing a fancy “restoration praise service” does not mean that someone has truly been restored back to God. It was an act of false humility, pride, self-righteousness, denial, and concealment of sin. It was a “fig leaf” covering the sin of rebellion.
“Rebellion is as sinful as witchcraft, and stubbornness as bad as worshiping idols.” (1 Samuel 15:23a)
“People who conceal their sins will not prosper, but if they confess and turn from them, they will receive mercy.” (Proverbs 28:13)
Denying allegations of wrongdoing and claiming to be innocent are the exact opposite of humility and godly sorrow which produce repentance.
“You do not desire a sacrifice, or I would offer one. You do not want a burnt offering. The sacrifice you desire is a broken spirit. You will not reject a broken and repentant heart, O God.” (Psalm 51:16-17)
God does not desire “restoration praise services,” hypocritical religious performances, and pious acts of absolution. He desires a broken spirit and a repentant heart. But does James Fortune look broken to you? Does he seem repentant? Not at all.
He seems happy, joyous, prideful, and as if his life and music career are carrying on as normal.
How can someone burn almost 50% of a child’s body, allegedly assault his wife, and then walk around smiling, perpetrating as a “man of God,” and attend the Stellar Awards as if nothing happened? This is the behavior of a sociopath and a reprobate.
And the sad thing is that professing Christians are smiling right along with James Fortune, nominating him for awards, enabling his violent behavior towards women and children and coddling him in his religious delusion while he pretends that “everything is fine” and that his “set back was a set up for his comeback.”
This is not normal. This is not what humility, repentance, and restoration looks like. This is sick, disturbing, and insane.
Where are all of the “good black men” in the black ‘Gospel’ music industry speaking against this?
Where are all of the “anointed women of God” in the black ‘Gospel’ music industry who claim to be advocates for women and children?
Why were so many black Christians rebuking Ray Rice, but they aren’t saying anything about James Fortune? Do church folks have a higher standard for secular celebrities than so-called “ministers of music”?
Black women are the most religious demographic in the United States. They are the main ones falling out, crying, and running around at black ‘Gospel’ music concerts. And sadly, they have greatly enriched a ‘Gospel’ music industry that only sees them as a dollar sign and doesn’t care about them or their children.
Is James Fortune spending the money you spent on his albums and concerts on legal representation? Did he use some of it to post bail?
If you continue to support these enablers who use you as a cash cow, that is your choice.
But as for me. . . I consider any ‘Gospel’ music artist that still supports James Fortune, Sherman Allen, or any other predator or sociopath a disgrace, a despicable hypocrite, an enemy of the Cross, and I will not listen to their music ever again.
“They profess to know God, but by their deeds they deny Him, being detestable and disobedient and worthless for any good deed.” (Titus 1:16)
“For many walk, of whom I often told you, and now tell you even weeping, that they are enemies of the cross of Christ, whose end is destruction, whose god is their appetite, and whose glory is in their shame, who set their minds on earthly things.” (Philippians 3:18-19)
“And he gives grace generously. As the Scriptures say, “God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.” So humble yourselves before God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. Come close to God, and God will come close to you. Wash your hands, you sinners; purify your hearts, for your loyalty is divided between God and the world. Let there be tears for what you have done. Let there be sorrow and deep grief. Let there be sadness instead of laughter, and gloom instead of joy. Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will lift you up in honor.” (James 4:6-10)
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Right on..my new favorite blog….everyone must read pagan Christianity by Frank Viola. Much of the practices that take place in “church” today derives from pagan practices and rituals. One thing is for sure…the church today in no way resembles true fellowship as God intended.
I just stumbled onto this article by pure happenstance, and I must say, you are spot on in your observations.
I too grew up in the church. BOTH my parents were preachers, and it was one of those things that many of us have experienced, where you went to school Monday through Friday, came home, did your homework, ate something, then went to youth service Tuesday night, Bible Study Wednesday night, prayer meeting Friday night, choir rehearsal Saturday afternoon and church ALL DAY SUNDAY – then you did it all over again next week. I grew up listening to gospel music, because that’s all we could listen to in the house, and I loved to sing in the choir. Growing up, I too found the hypocrisies in gospel ‘entertainers’ when going to concerts and seeing ‘performers’ doing the exact same act in different cities, it was nothing but an act and a show. Seeing what happened to James Cleveland, seeing the lifestyles of other performers and viewing all of this now on so-called ‘reality TV’ – IT’S ALL PATHETIC, and they wonder why people (like myself) no longer go to church.
Once again, GREAT ARTICLE!!!
Hi Joe:
I read your comments and immediately felt sorrow that you no longer attend church. I assume you are still a believer, but just not in church. The scripture does encourage us to not forsake the assembling as a body, because we need it, but I also understand it is difficult to find a good church. I drive 60 miles one way to attend my church, as our church is not involved in the foolishness in the church world. I’m criticized once in a while for it, but I don’t care. I pray you can find a body of believers where you can be a part of and be nourished.
Rodney
Black women are the most religious demographic in the United States.
“Religious.” Not an adjective to be proud of as a self-descriptor, as it generally has nothing to do with (indeed, is usually the polar opposite of) “Christ-following,” “Holy Spirit-filled,” “”repentant,” “saved by the blood of Jesus,” “humble,” “filled with the Word,” “salt of the earth,” or other qualities pleasing to God and serving of His will. But with that said, yes, you could make the case that black women are the most “religious” demographic in the U.S. – which just might be the major reason why these faux-Christian abominations that you mention still manage to thrive in the limelight despite their obvious unfitness for their calling (it is probably a safe bet that “religious” black women are the biggest paying customers for these wretched men’s output). For what it’s worth (you know this, I’m sure; it’s mostly for the benefit of the casual observer), “religious” people of every other ethnic group, of both sexes, are the progenitors of churchianity, and thus responsible for the dysfunctional, heretical mess that is the modern western “church.”
It is a wonderful thing that the matter of worship music is being examined. One irrefutable truth is that none of us is without fault in this respect. The very best amongst us has room to improve. The Lord said, “God is a Spirit: and they that worship him must worship him in spirit and in truth.” 1000 different churches have 1000 different ideas of how to worship God in spirit and in truth. But, what does it mean to worship God in spirit and in truth?
We must let the Bible be our guide. To worship God in spirit and in truth means to worship Him as commanded in the Word of God because it is God’s Word that is spirit and truth (John 6:63 & John 17:17).
What kind of worship music does God command?
Col.3:16 Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom; teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord.
Without analyzing this verse deeply at this time, three things are immediately obvious here.
1. God wants us to have a wealth of the Word of God within us.
2. God wants us to use this Word of God to teach and admonish (warn) each other in music that God calls “Psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs”.
3. God wants us to sing with grace in our hearts to the Lord.
Hymns used in the Worship of God have teaching characteristics. There is no better way to teach God’s Word than to use God’s Word alone. Church hymns are church doctrines arranged into songs. That is why the Methodists have the Methodist hymnal, the Baptists have a Baptist hymn book, the Mormons have their own hymnal, so do the Jehovah’s Witnesses, and the Pentecostal churches have songs that they use in Worship. Where is the Christian Hymnal? We do not think about it, but the Psalms are actually songs composed by God that God has given us to worship Him. In the original Hebrew, they are not written as prose as we have it in our English translations, but as poems in sing-able metrical form. I will not be too dogmatic to say we cannot put other Bible verses into music. But, it is safe to say that God’s preferences are the 150 psalms He has given us.
God’s musical taste is not the same as ours. This takes it to the issue of “Black Gospel Music”. Black gospel music is black gospel put to music as I have demonstrated above using Col. 3:16. There is no legitimate black gospel or black gospel music, or white gospel music, or Indian gospel music, etc. There is only one Gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ. Its worship songs are the Psalms. There are other universally accepted historic traditional Christian hymns that we all know and grew up singing. But I have found that once we start introducing all kinds of songs, we quickly decline into spiritual segregation from each other. One of the biggest failures of today’s churches is that the congregation does not demographically reflect the kingdom of God. And, I believe, ethnic things like musical choices is a big cause of this problem.
Also, the music of God’s Kingdom is different from the world’s music, both in the beat, the lyrics, and in the rhythm. The Bible teaches in Revelation 14:3 that our songs change when we become saved (enter into the Kingdom of God). Just as everything becomes new in Christ, so Christians are said in Rev.14:3 to sing “as it were a new song before the throne…” Likewise, Psalm 149:1 declares, “Praise ye the LORD. Sing unto the LORD a new song, and his praise in the congregation of saints.
Sadly, some folks go to the disco club on Saturday night, and seamlessly transition into church music on Sunday morning with the same disco spirit, without skipping a beat or rhythm in the music. The only change is that the lyrics are replaced by seemingly Godly words. Essentially, it is the same music genre, so the “celebration” lasts all weekend.
You now have rap music, rock and roll music, African fuji, etc, in the churches. There is even heavy metal. Folks want to have both worlds. And, we complain that unbelievers have crept into our churches and taken over. We have watered down the worship, and thus, making unregenerate souls take over the churches. The decay in our worship music is only a reflection of more serious spiritual ailments facing our congregations. We hire musicians who play at parties and clubs the night before to play in the sanctuary the next Sunday morning. Yes, Christian worship music is unlike secular music in lyrics, beat, and rhythm. It is 100% new to the new convert into the Kingdom of God.
Music is a very beautiful thing. Even our Lord Jesus Christ sang a hymn. But music can also be very dangerous. Even folks of the pagan religions beat their drum and recite their songs and chants drawing them gradually, but surely deeper into the spiritual world. I have forgotten many of the preaching I heard growing up years ago, but the music I learned as a child even when I was in false gospels are always popping up in my head. It is remarkable. That is why Col 3:16 describes music as a teaching tool. We must be very selective of our worship music. It should be solemn, and with grace in our heart. Remember, it is for God’s praise, not our pleasure or enjoyment. We must pray for His help to aid us in our spiritual development so that His songs can be enjoyable to our souls as our minds are aligned with His.
As we desire to reform our worship to conform to God’s word, we should not care about all the Grammy winning Hollywood “Christian artists” and celebrities. Have they not demonstrated enough that they are unworthy to produce our articles of worship?
But the hour cometh, and now is, when the true worshippers shall worship the Father in spirit and in truth: for the Father seeketh such to worship him.
May God invite all of us into His kingdom where the Chief-Psalmist of Israel is both the music composer and conductor of the musical instruments of our voices raised in praise to the Lord God Omnipotent. Amen.
Mr. Femi.
Very good article. The church has always in most cases sweep things under the rugged. They take scripture out of content to justify someone wrong behavior. I have always heard comments from people when people do wrong, “touch not my anointed one, who is without sin cast the first stone, and we’re only human, The person who they are talking about has committed a criminal act and they condone it.
The victims & the families of these victims lives are destroy. If people do not pray for them these people are lost for the rest of their lives. They continue to walk around with a victim mentality never knowing who God intended them to be. The people who abuse them has given them a false representation of who God is. Let’s pray for the church that we will be problem solvers instead of turning away from the problems.
First let me say this is an excellent article which was well written with great points. It exposes the darkness that is suppose to be in the gospel genre. To be honest I really don’t listen to a lot of black gospel music. I prefer worship music from the likes of Hillsong Worship or Jesus Culture. What I find with black gospel music is “hey watch me worship” but with Hillsong I get the impression that you “can join me in worship”. When I have personal prayer time I listen to worship playlist with very few black gospel artist on it. That is my preference. As a black Bermudain, I am not ashamed to say I don’t really like black gospel music. I prefer Hillsong Live. Having said that we need to pray for Jesus Christ to expose the darkness. In this internet age he will expose it. The question is will we continue to enable this bad behavior or hold these artist accountable.
Okay I hear you. THAT IS WHY THE LORD HAS BEEN PREPARING MY HUSBAND AND I FOR THE LAST THREE YEARS TO START DOING PRAISE AND WORSHIP WORKSHOPS THAT IS NOT ABOUT NO GROUP COMING TOGETHER AND SINGING AND HAVING A CONFOUNDED CONCERT THE NEXT DAY. NO THAT IS NOT WHAT WE NEED ANOTHER SONGFEST.WE DID OUR FIRST ONE TODAY,ESSENTIAL WORSHIP”. ALL TOPICS COME FROM OUR P&W MANUAL “IN THE PRESENCE OF THE LORD” WE TEACH AT THIS WORSKHOP, ABOUT BEING CLEAN VESSELS OF HONOR” WHO WE WORSHIP” SPIRTUAL WARFARE AND THE REALMS OF THE SPIRIT. AND OTEHR TOPICS. THESE TOPICS HOOT STRAIGHT TO THE HIP ABOUT ALL OF THE FINE ARTS IN THE BODY WHER ETHE DEVIL AND MADE HIMSELF AN ANGEL OF LIGHT AND HAS BOMBARDED AND BEWITCHED ESPECIALLY IN THE MUSIC AREA NOW THE FILTH HAS SEEPED DOWN INTO THS PULPIT ALL KINDS OF UNNATURAL WAYS. WE TEACH ABOUT BEING CLEAN WITH A CLEAN LIFESTYLE BEFORE WE GO BEFORE THE PEOPLE OF GOD AND CALL OURSELVES SINGING. CLEAN YOUR LIFE DAILY WITH DIRECTIVES WE NAME AND EXPLAIN. HOMOSEXUALITY INFIDELITY,UNGODLY PRAISE TEAM LEADERS,SEXING EVERY BODY IN THE GROUP ANDHAVING BABIES AND ALL THAT TOM FOOLEREY WE DEAL WITH IT ALL AND SHOOT STRAIGHT TO THE HIP WE ARE GOOD TO YOU BUT THERE IS NO CONCERT,THAT NIGHT.TO MUCH OF THAT. WE ARE LEAD TO PRAY A PRAYER OF EMPOWERMENT OVER EVERYONE TO TURN BACK TO GOD;S CLEAN MUSIC AND RID YOURS CHOIRS & PRAISE TEAMS,OF ALL OF THE PLAYING WITH GOD AND UNCONFESSED SINS.. So that is what I think of this Post Thanks bro you just confirmed us. The workshop today was heaven on earth as we shared and the participants ate spiritually.
WOW, I am one of those ministers that ministered even though I had sinned and repented and confessed to another. I thought I was in a thriving ministry and I did not try to lift myself up because I knew I had sinned and fallen short of the glory of GOD. But I also knew that my audience was struggling with some of my past sins so I could relate to them. I did not sin to be able to relate do not get me wrong. I was married, co-pastoring, confessed, in counseling and came to find out that she was leaving me. Immediately, I suggested that we resign and I think it shocked her because she thought I was caught up in the position but I was trying to fulfill a calling. Even my pastor asked us not to step down but if we insisted to at least continue sitting in our front row assigned seats because we were leaders. I obliged sitting in my assigned seat next to my estranged wife who had walked out of Christian counseling because of my comments in a session. Eventually I left the church after I called the pastor and he had his female assistant call me back to find out what I wanted and I said nothing and that’s been almost 5 years ago and I have not heard from that pastor since. I went from there as an unknown to hide in various churches until someone would spot me and call me Pastor X and then I would move on to another house. Eventually I found myself in a self imposed pig pen lifestyle where I have met so many hurt x Christian women that have been hurt by the church, people, pastors and teachings. Most recently I had a friend who I have confessed most things to and she has not judged me at all but rather accepted me with open arms; to tell me she has joined a group of AA nonbelievers. WOW, blew me away and I told her I know I am not living right but it has nothing to do with the church, pastor or people or the word. I encouraged her not to throw away the book based on her experiences but rather to have a meaningful relationship with GOD thru prayer (actual conversation with GOD both listening and talking) and not based on King James or the worlds application of The Bible. Now, my point the church as we know it is hurting so many people, pushing them away from GOD versus drawing them to GOD but what do we do? I recently heard Joseph Prince teach about those who perform the word (without spot or wrinkle) being jealous of those who operate in the Grace (sufficiency) of GOD. In fact I am doing a message titled “Your Grace is not Sufficient” dealing with the judgement of Christians by Christians because who measures our repentance or restoration? Very good and thought provoking article and comments; I do not have the answer, I understand Holiness and now that that I have sinned and fallen short I am grasping Grace. So I encourage us to “just pray”; no, this is a “these kind” of church situation and scenarios that can only be solved by GOD and with prayer and fasting; and not just during the Lent season.
Amen on a great article. We are living in a Itchy ears society. They love calling wrong right and right wrong. I am so tired of them twisting God’s Word to fit their perversions. I don’t listen to mainstream Gospel music anymore. It is garbage. The female artists are just as bad as the men. Leandria Johnson is disgusting and out of order. Mary Mary are self absorbed and self righteous so I guess that makes them half baked. Juanita Bynum is a con artist who used to and still does pimp herself out to the highest bidder. They have the nerve to sing about my Jesus….excuse yourself and sing about what you actually know.
Who is Lawrence Flowers? I never heard of dude. Gospel is a flat out joke.
Evelyn,
Your article is exposing a deeper issue that we have to begin to address. Not speaking for everyone, but most people don’t go into ministry, music, or leadership with the intention of being or becoming adulterers, rapists, addicts, molesters, abusers, or hypocrites.
The problem is many today are receiving and teaching a Christianity that’s built on words, and theology, and fine sounding arguments. The problem is many hold up the mantel of Christianity without the true power it provides to those who are truly transformed.
Today we have been conditioned to in churches to see the spirit realm as weird, hyper religious, or charismatic. Because of this we are often blind to the attacks of the devil of those who believe or desire to believe.
The bible tells us that discernment is need to be able to distinguish between good and evil. Now most think good and evil are easy to know the difference. This is true, but only through spiritual maturity and discernment. Without it, both good and evil will look right to the naked eye.
The things you speak of in this article are not just people who fall, it is able evil that has taken them captive and rules through them while masquerading around as people of light. Let’s not forget that we when we see encounters with the demonic in scriptures, they take place amongst the listeners, in the synagogues, and even in the heart of Peter momentarily until Jesus exposes him- get behind me Satan).
Jesus teaches that with the power of God in us, we don’t stand a chance against the power of the evil one. In before the great commission go GO make disciples (whigh everyone seems to be hyped about these days), there was a greater or superseding command to STAY and not go anywhere UNTIL they had been clothed with POWER from on high…then they would GO and be witnesses to the ends of the earth.
The point here was that Jesus was clear with them that this was not possible without them being equipped with a greater power than he who was in the world. Has they went out trying to change the world without the greater power…they would have been destroyed by the devil…this is NOT a game!
So many are unprotected on this journey because…
1. They don’t have the Spirit of God in them.
2. They have not learned to hear Cleary from the Spirit of God in maturity.
3. They have become double minded, allowing the devil to have an audience with them and are losing their clarity from the Spirit.
4. They have chosen to rebel and not submit to the Spirit of God and their lives have grieved the Spirit whose presence has left them and they are not powerless to prevent from being overtaken by the stronger man (than them- the devil).
Until we change the lies and strategies of Satan and make the Spiritual Realm our reality (in the normal, sound way the bible speaks of) we will continue to see the devil be the stronger man in the lives of human believers.
Just like with Jesus, the Devils plan for becoming God is to offer man something he was never made for…power that moves others to praise, follow, and worship you. This is the secret attack onew spiritual leaders and the powerful attack on the committed followers. We are merely vessels…aND depending upon which power will dwell in us, will determine the fruit and ultimately the fate of our lives.
But it will take people with the Spirit and the power of God to open the eyes of those who cannot yet see.
This article has stirred up things in many people, and I think it is wise to not allow it to stay merely in comments but to turn it into sound teaching for those who desire clarity, discernment and truth. Evelyn I would love to talk about what that would look like. A major part of my ministry work is helping spiritual leaders deal with these very issues. The problem is when they get trapped by the darkness, they are usually not voluntarily coming into the light to expose their deeds. This is why this teaching is so important on the front end for them to know who power and status and making them vulnerable to the control and influence of the enemy.
As I mentioned earlier I am providing my book on this issue free for download from amazon for the next 5 days starting tomorrow. It will definitely take this issue to deeper levels. The book is entitled, None of the Above: The Power & Pitfalls of Worship. I hope it can be a blessing and help those who read it. Here is the link (don’t buy it now as it will be free starting tomorrow).
None of the Above: The Power & Pitfalls of Worship http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00F1QVI2C/ref=cm_sw_r_tw_awdl_cXm8ub1ZJ6FZA
If anyone would like to speak to me any further I can be reached at tommy@tommyshavers.com
My God lead you and keep you,
Tommy
Thanks for the information .
Aside from the disappointment in the article, I am thankful to my Father through Christ Jesus, that in this comment section there are brothers and sisters spiritually skilled in Gods word. At times it seemed as though I’m alone in sounding the alarm…
Thank you all!!!
Keep educating!!!
I am glad that we are addressing these issues, It is only the beginning. The church and the gospel industry is the most financially profitable venture any skilled or talented person can get into. If you can motivate people with a few scriptures OR can sign like a nightingale , even if you have to just remix old spiritual songs, get yourself a manager you are guaranteed to make it. The Pastor are making it BIG, the singers and comedians all have hit the church each looking for a piece of the pie from a very gullible and easy to manipulate hard working pew member. The simple question is this . IF THERE WAS NO HONORARIUM, how many people will still wear a pastoral collar, produce a CD or aspire to be a minister? Very few. The only way to take this iniquity from the holy place is having the church return to the simplicity of the gospel . We need not hear those complicated sermons, with greek and Hebrew translations and interpretations. Let us quit the entertainment gospel and music , sing those spiritual songs and hymns that minister to the soul. We need simple bible studies that we can put into practice daily. We need to pray simple prayers that even my un-school grandma can pray. Above all let us live the gospel. The folks in the pew need to out those hawks that have take hostage this gospel. This gospel is bout heaven and hell. let us be heaven bound. The PEWS should stop funding the craziness on the PULPIT. By so doing men and women of integrity will return to the pulpit.
Great article! I am a recording artist of songs the Lord has given me for his people but I don’t say gospel artist because of the things associated with it. I often wondered if I was the only one that felt the standard with so low but yet the church slams the world for everything they do including secular artist. Its hypocritical. I felt that the vanity has reached a all time high. Everyone wants to be seen but where is the foot work to do outreach for the souls. I’ve not seen one artist have a post of a event for witness or soul winning nor anything that relates to community efforts which is our job here on earth for the Lord. Well take hope because God is raising up a generation that will do HIS will and not bow to the systems of this world.
I just want to speak as a leader who has been involved in shameful sin As a leader or celebrity alot of times are gifts are more mature than our walks with God. And ironically the church celebrates the fruits of our gifts and rarely accepts the truth of our walk…as long as it’s hidden…if it comes to light many have a problem with it.
In general, I think it’s very important as saints to do something Even if it’s at a local level. We really need a more hands on ministry. More than preaching or talking about it. I GREW UP IN THE CHURCH AND KNOW SCRIPTURE. So why did it take a fall for me to get my act right. I have chosen that after my exposure it is time to reflect and develop in Christ. Now I DO have an option to cover up (which many people choose to do) but it takes someone who truly loves God and has a relationship to go into a reflection period. Similar to what Tye did and I respect him till this day because he body spoke on his infidelity. So essentially what I’m saying is we are failing as churches and we need to ACT. I appreciate this blog for exposing biblical truths but I see this and remember the homosexual girl in my church that I’ve never even tried to speak to and somewhat feel responsible. I pray that God supplies with the strength for this type of hands on ministry because it requires alot of time and sacrfice. Both of which are scarce in these times…
to be honest as I read these things they make me incredibly sad – sad for the Church, sad for those who are caught up in all of this, sad for the effect on our witness for Christ. Grieved is perhaps a better word, as it brings to mind the scripture about not grieving the Holy Spirit. And I believe the Holy Spirit is grieved. I believe some of these ‘artists’ are genuine believers who have been led astray by the cares of the world and the desire for riches, whilst others may not actually have ever been born again. For that reason we ought to pray for them and for those around them – that they genuinely repent of their sins, which in most cases would mean they would cease from public ministry. Those who are really sincere would do well to highlight their repentance by simply stopping not just the sin, but stepping away from the spotlight, sitting down quietly somewhere to listen and learn from God and then, if and when they’ve gone through adequate discipline and restoration in the context of a local church with good accountability, then and only then, perhaps join their church’s choir as a member, or play the organ or something, but not to jump back on stage with lights and proclamation,etc. That to me would be a sign of bearing fruit worthy of repentance.
The desire many people have to ‘not judge’ or ‘just pray for them’ I think comes from 2 things: 1) they really don’t know what else to do or say and, 2) they know their own failings. The third option is I guess that they just don’t really care about integrity as long as the “anointing” is flowing. Then too there is the reality that many people have been genuinely blessed and encouraged by some of the music of these artists before their sins came to light. There are great many people for example who probably didn’t know (and still may not know) anything about James Cleveland’s homosexuality, but only knew him through his music and recordings – and truthfully the music was beautiful, worshipful and powerful.Yet the power of his music doesn’t excuse his sin, and that is I think the point. As they say, God is able to hit a straight lick with a crooked stick – but the stick is still crooked! Or as my grandmother put it – their works may be saved and their soul be lost. The industry (both on and off stage) makes the production of a good sound and ‘powerful’ music more important to may than integrity. And our money goes to support it.
My last point is one made by other commenters already. What we see in the ‘industry’ is just a reflection of what is often seen in the local setting. Many people, because of their talent, are promoted beyond their level of spiritual maturity. They can sing or play the instruments, and so we allow them to entertain us on Sunday morning, never taken into account the quality of their spiritual life. Such people are often young sincere believers, but never get discipled to deeper levels of relationship with the Lord, never get called out on their sin, never have to go through training in spiritual things. They play and sing and we don’t ask questions. We are not doing these people a service. In fact we are hurting them.
No one wants to face the problems and no one wants to agree on a solution. Period. No need for an essay. When we can learn to face the problems and create and be the solutions for them then all this talk will matter. Until then…
The issue here is that God has gifted these people with great gifts, but their character is not sufficient to allow them to walk in integrity. The problem comes because they think if the gift is still working they are ok, but in reality they are not. The gift is given without repentance & it will work no matter how your life is. Look at Eli, David & Solomon. All great men of God who failed in one way or another. We must pray for one another & keep our eyes focused on God & not on man. Love the person & hate the sin. Because even the worst sinner is still one of God’s creations & he doesn’t love one of us more than another. It makes me sad to see those with great gifts living any kind of way, but I choose to love them & pray for God to bring deliverance into their lives, because ultimately God does not desire for any to die & go to hell.
Thank you for commenting.
Please note: the Scripture which says that “gifts are given without repentance” is not referring to spiritual gifts (e.g. 1 Corinthians 12). It is referring to God’s gift of salvation unto the JEWS (the children of Israel). Please read the entire chapter. Paul’s point was that even though the nation of Israel had rejected Jesus Christ as their Messiah, God did not revoke His gift of salvation unto them. God has an elect among the Jews who would eventually come to salvation in Christ Jesus. That is what that passage is saying in context. It is not saying that “spiritual gifts” (e.g., teaching, prophesying, pastoring, preaching, etc) are given without repentance. Furthermore, spiritual gifts and natural talents are not one-in-the-same. A person who is musically talented can claim to be a Christian, while demonstrating absolutely no evidence that they are born-again. James Fortune and his ilk fit into this category. They are false ‘brethren’ and enemies of the Cross.
God bless
The hearts of men have grown desperately wicked not just in the world but also in the Church and it seems as if we choose to turn a blind eye to the things that are happening. We need to wake up Church we can’t afford to sleep when these things are happening we are quick to rebuke the girl when she got pregnant out of wedlock but love on the Pastor who got her pregnant. What are we doing wake up Church wake up. ..
Reblogged this on I'm hacked and commented:
Amen
Totally did not read the comments, this could have already been said.
Why are people surprised and why turn in the towel?
Lucifer was kicked out of heaven. Why because he wanted to be exalted above God. Next, what was his position before he was kicked out of heaven. For today’s terms. “MINISTER OF MUSIC”. I don’t listen to all quote on quote gospel music because immediately my spirit is vexed. One thing I know is there is lack of love for God. When a person truly loves God they obey his commandments. The scripture says, how will I know if a man loves me, if he keeps my commandments. I take this further and say if you love God, you will also honor God with your actions, when you want to sin you stop because it doesn’t please God. When you love God you reverence him, stand and awe him. When you love God you not only want to please him, but you want to represent him so well. I recently heard the youth Pastor at my church say, “before you encourage some one else, encourage yourself. Get yourself together.” Basically we are really God’s disciples when need to get back to one basic principle!! LOVE. love covers a multitude of sins and love causes us to please God like never before. My love for God causes me to check myself every time my flesh wants to rise up, I need to and I must please God because I love him.
Why people feel the need to sin and not represent God well is on them. When we stand before God, we can o lyrics stand for ourselves. I want to hear well done thy God and faithful servamt. I suggest you pray that God continue to expose the ungodly. We all reap what we sow and with situations you discussed people are definitely being exposed and I appreciate that they are exposed. Causes me to make sure I represent God better. What is done in the dark will come to light. Let’s me know that God is watching and when he is not pleased with our actions he will expose us. Get ready for the exposing of more people. God is coming back for a church without spot or wrinkle. That is not corporal, that is singular. God is coming back for a person that has spot nor wrinkle, no blemishes. Be who God called you to be, let your light shine so huge that people will say, “what must I do to be saved”. Do some watering or some planting so that God will bring the increases. Be the remnant so that people will know that holiness is still right.
Pray for these people. First a conviction, then a repentance so that even in these messed up situations God will still get the glory.
I apologize. I did not proofread and since this was typed on my tablet I know there are grammatical errors every where
Really appreciate you shedding light on this gospel music situation. I appreciate how you went in, and stated the pure truth that I have researched earlier this month concerning some of the old gospel artists. Many people seek to be blinded and refuse to see the truth of a person, because they sing well or are a celebrity. They forget God is no respect or of persons and he sees behind the music show what fans can’t . I pray more people use discernment in what gospel music to play for sure. I like Mahalia Jackson, Keith Green and a few others. Be blessed Shalom
I have deleted quite a few comments that contain sorry excuses. Just to address a few:
“No one is perfect” – Okay. And? Your point is? Are you saying that since “no one is perfect”, then Christians shouldn’t speak against barbaric men in the ‘church’ who inflict violence and sexual assault against women and children? Are you saying that since “no one is perfect”, then Christians shouldn’t say anything about the black ‘Gospel’ music industry supporting violent and predatory men? I hope not, because that’s STUPID and negligent. Responding with the worn-out excuse that “no one is perfect” is an attempt to trivialize dangerous behavior and crimes against women and children. I will NOT allow that here. I have a zero tolerance policy. On this blog, domestic violence, rape, and molestation will NOT be minimized as “not being perfect.” It is EGREGIOUS conduct, considered a FELONY punishable by law. If you attempt to lessen the severity of this despicable criminal behavior by saying that “no one’s perfect” your comment will be automatically deleted. None of the apostles were perfect, but none of them BEAT women, BURNED children, PREYED ON young boys, or DRUGGED and RAPED anyone. They were MEN OF GOD and their fruit demonstrated it. Some of you have an insanely LOW STANDARD for ‘Christian men’ and excuse the most barbaric behavior by saying that “no one’s perfect.” I will not allow that here.
“Only God can judge” — WRONG. The Bible doesn’t say that anywhere. Some of you are getting your beliefs about judging from Tupac and Bob Marley instead of Scripture. The Old and the New Testament teach Believers to make righteous judgments about character, behavior, leaders, and teachings. In 1 Corinthians 5, Paul the apostle rebuked the saints of Corinth because they failed to judge a man who was living in fornication with his mother-in-law. Paul said that he had already JUDGED that man in spirit, and for the saints to judge that man and remove him from their fellowship. In John 7:24, Jesus said to make a righteous judgment. There are Scriptures all over the Bible that instruct us to judge RIGHTLY, but the only verse that people seem to know is Matthew 7:1. Ironically, some of these very same people have judged me by assuming that I have “skeletons in the closet” (which I don’t) and judged this article — yet they claim that “only God can judge”, and therefore, I shouldn’t judge James Fortune, Sherman Allen, or whoever else they are defending. If only they could see how hypocritical they are by claiming that “only God can judge” and “Christians shouldn’t judge” while they themselves make INCORRECT judgments on this article. Look, if you truly believe that “only God can judge”, then practice what you preach by NOT judging me or this article since YOU AREN’T GOD.
“Just pray about it” — WRONG again. The Bible doesn’t teach this anywhere. The only people that I hear running around telling folks to “just pray” and not say or do anything are church folks. It makes me wonder if they have EVER read their Bible. Jesus didn’t “just pray.” The prophets didn’t “just pray.” The apostles didn’t “just pray.” So where do people get this PASSIVE DOCILE “just pray” nonsense from? From hirelings and false prophets in the pulpit who want their followers to “keep quiet” and not hold them accountable. I am not going to “just pray” about domestic violence and predatory behavior in the ‘church.’ I will pray AND cry aloud, spare not, and lift up my voice LIKE A TRUMPET.
“All have sinned and fallen short of God’s glory” — Okay. And? So now what? Since all have sinned and fallen short of God’s glory, that means we’re not suppose to speak up or do anything about unrepentant wickedness in the ‘church’? Are you saying that if a person has ever sinned and fallen short of God’s glory, then he or she is not qualified to speak the truth? Even IF that person repents and converts to Christ and becomes a born-again Christian? Well, if that’s the case then none of the apostles were qualified to tell anyone to REPENT and believe the Gospel, nor were they qualified to speak against false prophets in the church. So I guess some of you need to throw away your Bibles since the Scriptures were written by people who fell short of God’s glory and therefore (by your standard) were not qualified to judge, expose, rebuke and refute lies, wickedness and evildoers.
“keep your eyes on God and not man” — Absolutely NOT. The Bible doesn’t teach that either. Where are some of you getting these ideas from? Jesus clearly taught us to know a tree by its fruit, and you can’t do that if you are so-called “keeping your eyes on God and not man.” You cannot “test the spirit” of a person that you are ignoring or not paying any attention to. Discernment requires us to pay attention to our surroundings and the people we are in fellowship with and listen to. Furthermore, I find it funny that people who IDOLIZE/WORSHIP celebrities in the ‘church’ would tell others to “keep your eyes on God and not man” when they are doing the exact opposite by keeping their eyes on MAN and not God. The reason why there is a celebrity culture in the ‘church’ is because of people who are focused on MEN AND WOMEN and captivated by their talents, charisma, and eloquent speech. Without these fanatics and followers of men, there would not be a cult of personality in the ‘church’ and James Fortune and his ilk would not have any fans making them rich and famous. They are the ones who are too focused on MAN and not God who alone is worthy of worship and adoration.
At any rate, if you post any sorry excuses, out-of-context Scriptures, or worn-out retorts — your comment will be deleted. If you have settled it in your heart to continue supporting men who BEAT, BURN, DRUG, and RAPE — then there’s nothing I can say to change your mind. God is fed up with this ‘religious’ wickedness being celebrated, applauded, and perpetrated in His name. The true saints are fed up with it too. And don’t think that you’re going to come on my blog trying to silence me or “put me in my place” with a bunch of twisted Scriptures that you don’t study and churchy phrases.
Very good article indeed.
This is just indicative that the modern day church is totally apostate, full of paganism, idolatry, hedonism, and man worship. The church that I read about in the Bible is no where to be found in the incorporated, state-run institution that calls itself the church. Jesus did not join league with Rome or adopt any of it’s pagan practices in order to reach the lost and those he called, while they were a bunch of misfits, rebels, and the like, did not stay that way after spending time with the Lord. In both the Old and New Testament, there were and are qualifications for those who minister for the Lord and many so called prophets, pastors, ministers, teachers, etc. are not Biblically fit to serve because their lives do not conform to the Word of God. Keep allowing the Lord to grant you Holy Ghost boldness, Sister Evelyn. I believe the Lord is using many such as yourself in these last days to sound the trumpet of God’s Word so that His people will “come out from among them and be ye separate.” see 2nd Corinthians 6:14-18.
Evelyn, you said a mouthful and took away all those sorry excuses. It saddens me hear and read such regurgitated and uneducated responses. Very little remarks about the content of the article, just reasons to excuse the behavior. Don’t ever stop. Your labor is not in vain my sister!! God Bless!
hmmm profound and deep read, God bless you for sharing. This brings to mind the scripture: let him that thinks he stand take heed lest he falls.
these are perilious times people with no root in the Word are being tossed and turned by every wave of doctrine while trying to appear to be relevant in today’s world.
however God has not changed, He’s still the same yesterday, today and forever. He will not lower His Standards for anyone. Wake up from your slumber people, God is returning for His Bride – A Spotless and Blameless Church.
This is one of the reasons I do not watch the Stellar Awards. Trying to much to be like the world. So glorifying the Lord is a contest or competition now. Passing out AWARDS not rewards for best album, best artist, best song, best new artist etc,etc. Is this what the gospel artist are singing for? To win awards for worshiping the Lord
Wow wow wow …. I love people who Stand up for right though the Heavens fall. God bless you for publishing this and God’s got your back . I God it tooo . Loveeeee you . Keep finding them out … dig them up and root them out for Jesus.I am Marvin Edgar …. the real gospel artist from Jamaica who asked God to take away my Talent if it ever gets in the way of His Glory . I don’t play with God cause He can read my Heart .
It isn’t just the “black gospel music industry” that has flatlined, but the church of Jesus Christ as a whole. The church is a hot mess and I believe judgment is coming. My endeavor is to, like Paul the apostle, make Christ known, and as my church’s bible study teacher, am beginning with my church. Will the true church please stand up?
Aman!
I have def agree with everything its not right but it is the world we live in the male figures in my life always tell me to guard my heart and my eyes n ears cause its important but why only the black gospel and yes i am black people do dirt not color is all im saying and while we do have the right to judge (justly) make sure you say a sincere prayer cause obviously they def need it ps this is one of the reasons i dont listen to alot of gospel singing i def prefer gospel hip hop i didnt write this for everyone to see just for u n im not a gospel groupie either
Wow! It really makes me skeptical of a lot that goes on in the church.
Reblogged this on ladikol and commented:
What else can I say? Father, help the faithful ones to stand till the end.
We need to go back to singing the spiritual hymns which glorified God because the hymns came from the Word of God!
Wow this is crazy. I am 31 tears old and I have never heard of any of these incidents. Where have I been under a rock.
I feel the same way. Like I’ve been under a rock
My wife and I are Gospel recording artist, and we were just discussing this topic a few days ago. It’s so difficult to even say “Gospel recording artist” simply because of what’s associated with it. We often ask ourselves who are we to believe that we can bring about change; God quickly reminds us that it is He who will bring the change, and that we are merely the willing vessels.
Me and my wife have been happily married by all accounts for eight years. God has blessed us with two beautiful little girls that mean everything to us. We ask that you pray continually for ministry (Truthful Justice) and our family as we embark on our purposed journey to right the ship; restore order by allowing God to get all the glory that has been seemingly taken by man. Outstanding article!!!
Thank you! Congrats on your 8 years of happy marriage. May God’s will be done in your ministry
Amen, remember how many God had that did not bow to baal prophets
Your article is confirmation for me. I just posted my response via FaceBook amd shared your article. It has already generated more shares. People want to say this, but they don’t. I really want to commend your courage for not being a bystander. Our church has enough of those. Continue to use your voice. Stay in touch.
All glory to God. Thank you for sharing the article. I hope that someone’s eyes are opened. Be blessed
Evelyn,
I also wrote a book entitled: None of the Above; The Powers & Pitfalls of Worship. This is book was a revelation from God that he had me to research during my doctoral studies. It deals with how wrong worship can be created in the lives of believers. It is a must read for people to help them open their eyes to how power can influence their spiritual walk. One chapter deals with power and music, and another deals with power and church leaders and worship leaders.
Please know I am not attempting to promote the book here. It just to support your writing and explain the reason why such acts as mentioned in your article often go overlooked or unaddressed.
Please share as it will add to the conversation. In fact if you would like, I am willing to make it available free for download for a day or so for those who have read your article as well as for anyone else who would want a copy of it. Just let me know when and I will make it happen.
Here is the link:
For me this is confirmation. I have felt this way for many years. I was exposed to the GMWA when James Cleveland was still alive and all I can say is that there were many men with demons. Demons of deception and perversion. In the end there will be a judgement day, and there will be no time for excuses. Repent every one of you (including me) Live right, love your neighbor, PRAY every morning and PRAY every night. God is real, and he is watching 24/7 taking notes.
People are living as if God doesn’t exist and Jesus isn’t returning for a Church without spot or blemish. It’s hard to believe that it’s going to get worse than this. I can’t imagine what these folks will be condoning next. As you said, the Lord is watching and keeping an account of every man’s works. The days of “playing church” are over. We have to get serious.
Absolutely On Point Powerful and exactly on point! wow!!! The Holy spirit does not lie, God has been speaking 2 me & showing me whats going on. It’s serious and extremely sad.
It is very serious and very sad. Thank God for showing us the truth and giving us discernment. “Test the spirits” applies to music artists as well!
I am glad you did this. My suspicions/discerments have been confirmed. Some have been unbelievable and others very disappointing, but God’s eyes on men. Shame on those who continue to play church. The book of James shall serve them well.
WOW! I AM SO BLESSED THAT SOMEONE HAS SPOKEN OUT AGAINST THIS SATANIC MONSTER IN THE CHURCH. I OFTEN WONDERED WHY PEOPLE LIKE JAMES CLEVELAND AND OTHERS LIKE HIM AND WORSE COULD GO ON AND BE SO POPULAR IN THE CHURCH AND NOTHING SAID ABOUT THE HOMOSEXUAL LIFESTYLE HE LIVED AND CORRUPTION OF OTHERS LIFESTYLES AS WELL. iT HAS AMAZED ME AS A WHOLE HOW PEOPLE WHO CLAIM CHRISTIANITY CAN LIVE ANY OLD KIND OF WAY AND BARE NO FRUIT OF THE SPIRIT OR LOVE. BE HATEFUL AND MEAN AND THE LIST GOES ON. I HAVE BEEN A VICTIM OF MANY OF THEIR CUNNINGNESS AND EVIL IN THE CHURCH. I HAVE BEEN PERSECUTED FOR PREACHING THE TRUTH OF HOLINESS IN MY CHURCH FOR YEARS BUT I KNOW THIS IS A HOLY GOD WE SERVE. WE HAVE NO IDEA HOW HOLY HE REALLY IS. I HAVE NOT ARRIVED BUT I DO BRING MY SIN OR FAULTS BEFORE GOD AND I DO NOT EXCUSE ANY BEHAVIOR I EXHIBIT THAT IS NOT OF HIM. I REPENT AND ASK HIM TO DELIVER OR HEAL ME IN THE AREAS I NEED DELIVERANCE OR HEALING. I DO NOT ACCEPT SIN AND EXCUSE IT OR ALLOW IT TO DOMINATE MY HEART AND I BELIEVE THAT’S HOW A BELIEVER SHOULD BE GRIEVED AT SIN EVEN WHEN IT WORKS ON THE INSIDE OF YOU. THIS IS NOT JUDGING PEOPLE EITHER, IT IS JUDGING THE FRUIT THEY DISPLAY AND HE SAID YOU WOUKD KNOW THEM BY THEIR FRUIT AND THERE IS A LOT OF EXCUSED BAD FRUIT OUT THERE. IT’S NOT A JUDGING OF THE PERSON BUT THE FRUIT. THESE ARE BAD TREES PRODUCING BAD FRUIT JUST AS YOU HAVE SO TRUTHFULLY STATED. THANK YOU FOR STANDING UP AND SPEAKING OUT ON THESE ISSUES. IT HAS EXPOSED THE CORUPPTION AS A TRUE PROHET SHOULD DO AND AT THE SAME TIME ENCOURAGED THOSE OF US WHO DARE TO STAND AND PREACH GOD’S TRUTH. GOD BLESS YOU AND I THANK GOD FOR YOU. THANK GOD AND THANK YOU!
God bless you Debra! Be encouraged and continue to exhort the saints to walk by faith and live holy — in season, and out of season, whether anyone wants to hear it or not. Peace and Grace to you
I speak on this on my youtube channel. Of course I get attack for speaking truth. I don’t agree with James Fortune being restored….this just happen in October. But of course from a business side, he must have more albums he has to create before a certain time. This is another example of Saul needing Samuel to stand with him so he can appear as though God is still with him. Sad
Hi Evelyn,
My wife sent me your article. She told me this was a confirmation of what the Lord has been saying to me regarding the spirits that exist in “Christian” music of all genres.
I wrote a book on worship that deals with these same issues. Most are unaware of the wrong worship we engage in spiritually.
We need to talk more. Please let me know how we can connect. I look forward to it.
God Bless!
Tommy
tommy(at)tommyspeak(dot)com
Hello Tommy,
Thank you for coming by and reading the article. Praise God for bringing confirmation. And you are right. . . many of us are not aware of the false fleshly worship that we are engaging in, and the evil spirits operating within much of this ‘Gospel/inspirational’ music. I am not sure where this notion of separating a person’s talent from their character/personal lifestyle came from, because it certainly didn’t come from God and the Scriptures. In Scripture, if a person was of another ‘spirit’ and living in some sort of gross sin, they were not allowed to teach, shepherd, or minister before the people. But many Christians today have been taught that we are to separate a person’s FRUIT/character from their talent. That is not Biblical at all. It is just another false teaching which teaches Christians to turn a blind eye to unrepentant sin in the lives of professing Christian celebrities and prominent figures in the ‘church.’ The word clearly says to know a tree by its fruit, so I will not separate a person’s fruit from their talent. That doesn’t make sense anyway, because the bad fruit does not disappear just because a person is on stage performing, in the studio, or a music video. It’s the same abusive, violent, perverse, self-absorbed sensual person — the only difference is, they are performing. Just let me know how you and your wife can be reached. God bless you both!
Evelyn,
Please send me an email when you get the opportunity.
tommy@tommyspeak.com
Okay, thanks Tommy.
I have been saying this for the longest while…but everyone still says the gift is given without repentance, and i don’t think this scripture is used in the right context..
Reblogged this on TommySpeak and commented:
A Must Read! This applies not only to the music industry, but to every area of influential work.
Good Article BUT our “gospel” music is only a reflection of the American Church. The music will change when the culture of Christianity changes in our country. People are people and until they see their sins through GOD’s eyes and until they get godly sorrow people will always try to have a form of godliness and live in Sin.
Fully Agreed
Awesome article!!!! That’s why I’m such an advocate of supporting my local ministry. We have no idea how people are living yet we will neglect our own ministry to pack a house when the are in concert and some these artist are not living according to the word of God. This is why the real church is shyed away from because so many are looking at those in the spotlight and not God’s light. God provided them a platform for His name to get Glory and they misuse it. Oh Zion what’s the matter now!!!!! I’m grateful to know the Way and to be a part of a ministry that teaches, ” the wages of Sin is Death but the gift God is Eternal Life”!
I’m not saying I agree with or disagree with the article, but I will say God will use anyone to get his message heard. I’m a song writer myself and I am far from perfect. A lot of times I sat down to write a song because that’s a way to get my personal time with God. It’s also 10 out of 10x’s the song was meant for me directly. So if the song helped me with a situation, why can’t it help someone else.
Excellent article! I stopped listening to “gospel” music years ago because of exactly what you mention here. There is a spirit in the music for sure, and it’s not the Holy Spirit, in most cases. It’s a shame because there are some good grapes in the bunch, but I agree, the trees roots are defiled. I couldn’t even fully read your account about what Fortune allegedly did to his 4 year-old child. Just wicked. Lord, have mercy! It’s people like you and me and others who are bold enough to say, “No more!” to this foolishness and stop supporting it. And just in case anyone wants to start with the “You shouldn’t judge” nonsense, read the Bible, specifically what Jesus actually said about judging. None of us are free from sin and I shudder to think at what I could be capable of doing without staying connected to Christ and the Holy Spirit. These folks need accountability, a repentant heart and the mercy of the Lord.
Amen! Awesome comment. I agree 100% and have nothing to add.
This is awesome. I am someone who recently left the gospel industry do to hypocrisies and unaccountability. During my time in this industry, it became known quickly that it is about money. There are people who don’t go to church, or even believe in God that are pimping out the name of Christ. At that time in my life, I wasn’t really saved- I just “Knew of Christ” by growing up in the church. Even then, I knew that this wasn’t right. So I left, and God has really shown Himself to me every since. I still know people that are involved, and still believe that they are “Making Jesus Famous” But God doesn’t need out help. He made Himself famous before we even existed. We are created to worship him, not lead others into worship for a thousand dollar fee. I can’t stand to see people pimping out Our Lord and Savior. Lord have mercy on us.
I have been involved in the secular music industry, but after I got saved and wanted to do worship/Gospel/Christian music, the Lord told me NOT to get involved in the “Gospel” music industry and to just trust Him to open doors for me, and to put my music online for free. The Lord told me at that time that the ‘Gospel’ music industry was worse, and I didn’t understand it back then. But I understand why He said that now. Lord have mercy on us indeed.
This is a very good article. I feel the exact same way. Unfortunately when these things are brought out and up, it’s the “saints” who have the most fight against you. I’ve found the wolves get more prayer than the sheep. And it’s the sheep ushering the wolves into the pen where they can have free course. God bless and keep you. Stay encouraged, and stay on the wall!
Thank you. You are right. When this issue is brought up, the main opposition comes from professing Christians. Where are the pastors at speaking against this? Do they even care? Oh wait. My bad. They are too busy inviting hypocritical ‘Gospel’ artists to their ‘churches’ to perform. Many of them have homosexual choir directors, vocalists, and unsaved musicians playing the drums, organ, bass guitar, etc. So why would they say anything? My expectations are too high. You be encouraged as well!
Excellent article. I too, have noticed and become aware of the perversion that pervades the entertainment industry and how the gospel industry is no different. A wolf in sheep’s clothing. It is up to us to open our eyes and to see that we must separate ourselves from this world and truly embrace Christ now more than ever.
Amen dear sister. Thank you for the encouragement. I don’t see a difference anymore between the secular music industry and the black ‘Gospel’ music industry. I just try to use discernment no matter who the artist is and what they are singing about.
Thank you for this post — and your not the only one who is thrown the towel in on not only black gospel music — but current contemporary Christian music as a whole. It is also shameful that the Christian community has not stood up to this stuff which has been going on for ages. E.G., when I was in my youth, I attended a black Baptist church which was rife with homosexuality, sexual sin, violence, alcoholism, etc. I sang on a choir where the male music leaders were openly homosexual and main female leader was having an adulterous affair. The pastor of the church (a spirit filled man) was well aware of the aforementioned and did NOTHING to stop it. In fact the aforementioned crowd was the “in crowd” as they represented the power structure of the church. Those who were not in the “in crowd” often became the victims of the double standard of punishment from that power structure. For example, as a worker in a day camp — I said something to a misbehaving kid which the parent did not like. Because of this “outrageous behavior,” I was threatened with loss of my job and ultimately hauled before the pastor. But because my pastor knew my family — and knew that there would be a big stink (primarily a loss of tithes and offerings) — he just said don’t do that again. Yet in that very same day camp, workers who were openly homosexual were allowed to interact with the kids. Again, nothing was done — there was no outrage from fellow workers or parents — and none of the homosexual workers were brought before the pastor. I could go on and on about what happened in that church — but I will say this — some 40 years after the fact — EVERY homosexual in that church died horribly. The church itself has not and is not doing well to this day.
It’s time for the Christian community to stand up to this stuff — not only in the Christian music industry — but in the body of those who call themselves believers.
Wow! What a horrible experience. It’s sad, but that’s often the way things go when you try to do what is right in these sort of churches. You become the oddball, the trouble maker, and the problem. You’re the one who needs to be quiet and just “go along to get along.” Meanwhile, those who are living in sin go unchecked, and are rewarded with power. Very sad. God sees everything that is going on. He is not mocked. Everyone will reap what we sow. Thank you so much.
If it’s alright, may I ask how those people from your church died? I find that incredibly sad and I can only assume that many of them probably died with an unrepentant heart.
Yes, it is quite sad and tragic. The total that I was aware of was eight — mostly due to AIDS or complications from hepatitis.
Reblogged this on and commented:
This is a powerful post and one that should be read
Thank you for reblogging sis! God bless!
Lol!
I didn’t care or have the time to read through all of those comments, but I do have to tell you this….. when you said that “restoration” thing…..it was nothing but the creative wordings of PR. Now YOU know what it really was….lol. They were raising money for him, cause he lost his radio show, and he wasn’t making big on sales with the new music. That’s all that was.
But what’s up with all these preachers dying in the pulpit??? Get on that, and see what you find, and let us know what’s really goinz-onz….