We want to continually thank everyone who has and continues to help us fight this fight. The City of Phoenix has been harassing Suzanne and I since 2007 infoming us that we could not have Bible Studies at our home. Even though our home is not open to the public, our guest have never parked in the street or caused noise or traffic issues the City of Phoenix had warned us for a year period to cease and desist. We have argued with the City that we have the same rights as anyone else to gather our property. The City of Phoenix has stated that since our meetings are religious we had to become a "Church" and conform to an "A" Occupancy before having worship. As Christians we had tried to cooperate with the City only to come up to the conclusion that someone in the City did not like us and changed the ordinance on us 3 times to prevent us from gathering. After contacting an attorney and the Dept of Justice we were informed that our First Amendment Rights protect us to privately gather and worship.
The City of Phoenix saw the practice of our faith as rebellion and charged me with 67 building code and zoning code violations because we were having worship but was not a "Church" ultimately they sentenced me to 60 days in Jail, 3 years probation and $12,000 in fines. We are currently having to fight this in Federal Court. I am to report to jail on July 9th, 2012. Please see video above. We want to first of all thank you for all your prayers and if there is one thing that we do envy it is your prayers.
Many have asked how they can help financially to help us fight this. Though we are not asking for money and know God will provide, we would like to allow those who feel a need to participate have a chance to. Please see the link below to donate to the Legal Fund.
Showing posts with label Pastor Michael Salman. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Pastor Michael Salman. Show all posts
Tuesday, July 3, 2012
Monday, December 12, 2011
Helping The Poor and the Role of Believers
It is not a secret that in Phoenix Arizona it has become a little cold and wet. As I drive the street I can not ignore those who are walking around with large bags and some with baskets indicating their homelessness. It always make me wonder what made people come to the place they were at in the first place. Was it drugs, alcohol, divorce or some tragedy that has occurred to them. I know that in Phoenix there are programs and shelters that not only house but help those who are homeless get off the street. Sometimes I wonder if maybe those who are walking the streets have already tried so many time to get off that they just quit and accepted their transit living. Which brings me to the subject of this blog: What is the Christians role when seeing people like this walking the street? I get so guilty sometimes because I think that it is my responsibility to at least offer someone walking the street like that some shelter. Then I think of why are they not in a shelter or existing program already? I know that my family and the ministry supports programs like OCJ Kids which deals with Orphans, The Dream Center which has rescue missions, along side ministries and many others. So then why are these people not utilizing such resources. I know that in our fellowship when a family becomes homeless due to job or other situations my wife and I open our doors and home to them. We have had various families come in and out of our lives because of reasons like this. I believe this is where the Christian must shine through. No Christian family belonging to the Church of God should go homeless. Sometimess we get calls from families asking us for resources. One of the first questions I ask is do they belong to a fellowship or congregation. It is so surprising home almost 9 out of 10 say, "NO". When I ask them why not? There is always some reason they chose not to belong but have chose rather to ask from one. We have helped people like this also encouraging them to be part of a Christian Family.
Now back to those who are not. It is the Christian Fellowship or Congregation call to support local programs that help the homeless, the orphan and the widow. By doing this the burden is carried by the whole Christian Faith rather than the dependency or burden of just one. When a person on the street in encountered it is easy to direct someone to such a program. If they chose not to take the opportunity ones hands are clean. In order for our directing one to such a Homeless Mission it is important that we do not just give the burdens but help carry them. I thank God that our Mission helps and does just that and I can only pray that yours does likewise. MERRY CHRISTMAS!
Pastor Michael Salman
Now back to those who are not. It is the Christian Fellowship or Congregation call to support local programs that help the homeless, the orphan and the widow. By doing this the burden is carried by the whole Christian Faith rather than the dependency or burden of just one. When a person on the street in encountered it is easy to direct someone to such a program. If they chose not to take the opportunity ones hands are clean. In order for our directing one to such a Homeless Mission it is important that we do not just give the burdens but help carry them. I thank God that our Mission helps and does just that and I can only pray that yours does likewise. MERRY CHRISTMAS!
Pastor Michael Salman
Wednesday, November 9, 2011
Court Case Update 11/2011
Grace to you and peace from God our Father and our Lord Jesus Christ. This is an update on our recent court case. This week we went to the State Court to fight for the Bible Board in front of our home. The Board is used to quote scripture to the 2500+ cars that pass in front of our home on a daily basis. It went well "we believe". Our point that Political and other signage is given exceptions and certain circumstances that do not need a permit, while religious speech is required to have a permit, was emphasised in the appeal. This is an issue of treating non-religious differently than religious. This City has a big problem with persecuting religious folks. I pray this changes with the new administration. There is a change in our plan for federal intervention. We thought that if Suzanne went to the appeal and if the decision was against her we would be able to file the lawsuit in federal court but meeting with our attorney's yesterday that would not be the case. To make sure the Federal case sticks she would have to appeal to the Arizona Court of Appeals. After that if there is still an unfavorable decision than we can file our lawsuit in reference to the sign. The attorney's did inform us that it would be good to keep the suit separate so that our issues are clear.
I did get the extension for filing the Appeal Memorandum. I will be asking for oral argument so when that happens we need all those in support to stand up and let this state know that what is happening here in our City is an injustice and discrimination against religious meetings. If we receive an unfavorable decision in this court we will then be filing the Federal Lawsuit. The great news is that the Pacific Justice Institute and our attorneys will be working together to fight this. As some of you know the PJI is fighting a similar case that happened this year in California.
I just want to thank everyone who support us in many ways. Prayer, financial and such comes from people who care. As Christians we want to be good neighbors. We live in this neighborhood also. The park is across from us, we have 2500+ cars in front of our home on a daily basis and our street is an arterial street. So we do not live in a small quiet neighborhood. Our meetings do not disturb the tranquility of the neighborhood, traffic or parking. Our guest never park in the street, we have 4.6 acres of land that anyone can park on. That is room for over 100+ cars. We are not loud in the sense of noisy. As a matter of fact during the weekend the sounds coming from the park during the weekend overbear our noise. This is why we are so baffled on why this City believes it can prosecute us? Our neighbors on the other hand have get together where they park in the street, are loud, cause traffic concerns and yet they do not need a permit. The only conclusion we have is that we are prosecuted because they are religious and because they are religious they need a permit. This has been made very clear in court by testimony. Folks this is not a battle only for us but every church that has home studies, cell groups, home groups and ministries that begin in the home are all in threat. If you meet weekly at your home with more than 2 guests, according to the City you are in violation. If someone complains about your 2 or more people meeting in your home for Bible Study the City will prosecute you. This is true, documented and testified on. Sounds ridiculous? We feel the same way and that is why we are taking this to court. Non-Commercial Private meetings even religious must be protected. PRIVATE IS PRIVATE. NOT COMMERCIAL is NOT COMMERCIAL. Churches these days are open to the public and they are commercial they have signs in the front, they invite the general public to come in, they are not discretionary on who comes in. This is not our case. We are not open to the public, we do not invite the general public and believe me I am very discretionary on who comes to my home. My family lives there. My personal items and goods are there. There is a big difference. Well I rattled off enough. Please keep us in prayer and thank you all for your constant support. In Christ we are always victorious.
I did get the extension for filing the Appeal Memorandum. I will be asking for oral argument so when that happens we need all those in support to stand up and let this state know that what is happening here in our City is an injustice and discrimination against religious meetings. If we receive an unfavorable decision in this court we will then be filing the Federal Lawsuit. The great news is that the Pacific Justice Institute and our attorneys will be working together to fight this. As some of you know the PJI is fighting a similar case that happened this year in California.
I just want to thank everyone who support us in many ways. Prayer, financial and such comes from people who care. As Christians we want to be good neighbors. We live in this neighborhood also. The park is across from us, we have 2500+ cars in front of our home on a daily basis and our street is an arterial street. So we do not live in a small quiet neighborhood. Our meetings do not disturb the tranquility of the neighborhood, traffic or parking. Our guest never park in the street, we have 4.6 acres of land that anyone can park on. That is room for over 100+ cars. We are not loud in the sense of noisy. As a matter of fact during the weekend the sounds coming from the park during the weekend overbear our noise. This is why we are so baffled on why this City believes it can prosecute us? Our neighbors on the other hand have get together where they park in the street, are loud, cause traffic concerns and yet they do not need a permit. The only conclusion we have is that we are prosecuted because they are religious and because they are religious they need a permit. This has been made very clear in court by testimony. Folks this is not a battle only for us but every church that has home studies, cell groups, home groups and ministries that begin in the home are all in threat. If you meet weekly at your home with more than 2 guests, according to the City you are in violation. If someone complains about your 2 or more people meeting in your home for Bible Study the City will prosecute you. This is true, documented and testified on. Sounds ridiculous? We feel the same way and that is why we are taking this to court. Non-Commercial Private meetings even religious must be protected. PRIVATE IS PRIVATE. NOT COMMERCIAL is NOT COMMERCIAL. Churches these days are open to the public and they are commercial they have signs in the front, they invite the general public to come in, they are not discretionary on who comes in. This is not our case. We are not open to the public, we do not invite the general public and believe me I am very discretionary on who comes to my home. My family lives there. My personal items and goods are there. There is a big difference. Well I rattled off enough. Please keep us in prayer and thank you all for your constant support. In Christ we are always victorious.
Tuesday, October 11, 2011
SHORT STORY - THE RIGHT THING!
THE RIGHT THING
Born in New York in a Suburb called Yonkers my friends were always those who enjoyed playing outside in the cold of winter. Our greatest sport was kick ball. We always used the spongy one. Our street was not the widest in New York and we knew that if that ever hit any car it would not break any windshields or dent any doors or hoods. We only had to worry about Tiny. Tiny was really not tiny he was big but we called him Tiny. He was 12 years old and weighed a close 250 lbs and stood 5’9. His family was Italian so we knew that his mother fed him well. You see there was that time Tiny was running for a pop up that was kicked and let’s just say that when Tiny hit the side of Mrs. Morthers brand new Cadillac is was not a pretty sight. The Cadillac lost. Everyone ran except for me and Kenny. We just stared at the Cadillac. Even Tiny got up and ran, well more like wobbled away. The next thing I felt was Mrs. Morther dishwashing cold wet hands pinching my ears and her screeching voice saying, “You know who did this?” Of course I did not want to be a rat so I denied it the best I could.
My dad was a hard worker. Most days my dad would leave in the morning usually before we woke up and would return at night right before we went to bed. He was a man of integrity. We were raised in a religious home with pictures of Jesus on our walls and the cross in all our bedrooms. Every Sunday we would go to church and my father would not allow us to sit in the service but always volunteered us to do something. Whether it was Sunday School, serving or handing out bulletins we were always told that Christians are those who serve and are people of action not reaction. I never really knew what that meant until I got older. So there I was in front of the man who ran our home and taught us the good principles of the bible staring me in the eyes.
“I know how you feel son. Being a rat is not something someone wants to be. “ he calmly spoke those words to me. I could not help but tear. “Now let me ask you this” he said, “did you do it?” I slowly nodded my head “no.” He then asked “do you know who did it?” Slowly with tears running down my 11 year old face whispered, “yessss..” My dad then held my shoulder as of assuring me that it was o.k. but wanted me to understand something. He took a deep breathe and said, “Son, even though you did not do it, but you knew who did and was not willing to tell, it was only right that we pay for the damages.” I immediately said, “That was not fair.” My dad then told me a story in the bible that relates to God’s mercy and judgment.
David was a man of God who loved God a lot. He was attracted to a woman but the problem is the woman was another mans wife. He did not care but instead took her to his house and she turned out to be pregnant. To make the matter worse David had no choice but to kill her husband to hide the affair. David thought he got away but God knew. You see God told David that he had done an evil thing but that God knew deep inside David loved God but was weak and did wrong. David begged for God’s forgiveness and God forgave David. God then said that just because David was forgiven he would have to pay for the consequences of His sin. This consequence was that the baby would die and that the sword will not depart from the house of David. Just because we receive God’s forgiveness does not mean we immediately live without the consequences of our sins.
My Dad then explained to me that the consequence of me knowing and yet not telling is that we pay for the damages. So sure we keep what we think is right but we ultimately pay for it elsewhere. My dad ultimately paid for the repairs himself. Kenny was not going to tell either but Kenny’s dad was not like my dad. So Kenny’s dad did not offer anything. When the news spread through the neighborhood that my dad paid for the repairs even though it was not his sons fault, Tiny confessed to his dad. Tiny’s dad was very apologetic. Tiny’s dad owned a small fruit cart in the neighborhood. He could not pay back my dad all at once but between the free fruit and payments all was finally made well and right.
*THIS STORY IS COPYRIGHT.
Born in New York in a Suburb called Yonkers my friends were always those who enjoyed playing outside in the cold of winter. Our greatest sport was kick ball. We always used the spongy one. Our street was not the widest in New York and we knew that if that ever hit any car it would not break any windshields or dent any doors or hoods. We only had to worry about Tiny. Tiny was really not tiny he was big but we called him Tiny. He was 12 years old and weighed a close 250 lbs and stood 5’9. His family was Italian so we knew that his mother fed him well. You see there was that time Tiny was running for a pop up that was kicked and let’s just say that when Tiny hit the side of Mrs. Morthers brand new Cadillac is was not a pretty sight. The Cadillac lost. Everyone ran except for me and Kenny. We just stared at the Cadillac. Even Tiny got up and ran, well more like wobbled away. The next thing I felt was Mrs. Morther dishwashing cold wet hands pinching my ears and her screeching voice saying, “You know who did this?” Of course I did not want to be a rat so I denied it the best I could.
My dad was a hard worker. Most days my dad would leave in the morning usually before we woke up and would return at night right before we went to bed. He was a man of integrity. We were raised in a religious home with pictures of Jesus on our walls and the cross in all our bedrooms. Every Sunday we would go to church and my father would not allow us to sit in the service but always volunteered us to do something. Whether it was Sunday School, serving or handing out bulletins we were always told that Christians are those who serve and are people of action not reaction. I never really knew what that meant until I got older. So there I was in front of the man who ran our home and taught us the good principles of the bible staring me in the eyes.
“I know how you feel son. Being a rat is not something someone wants to be. “ he calmly spoke those words to me. I could not help but tear. “Now let me ask you this” he said, “did you do it?” I slowly nodded my head “no.” He then asked “do you know who did it?” Slowly with tears running down my 11 year old face whispered, “yessss..” My dad then held my shoulder as of assuring me that it was o.k. but wanted me to understand something. He took a deep breathe and said, “Son, even though you did not do it, but you knew who did and was not willing to tell, it was only right that we pay for the damages.” I immediately said, “That was not fair.” My dad then told me a story in the bible that relates to God’s mercy and judgment.
David was a man of God who loved God a lot. He was attracted to a woman but the problem is the woman was another mans wife. He did not care but instead took her to his house and she turned out to be pregnant. To make the matter worse David had no choice but to kill her husband to hide the affair. David thought he got away but God knew. You see God told David that he had done an evil thing but that God knew deep inside David loved God but was weak and did wrong. David begged for God’s forgiveness and God forgave David. God then said that just because David was forgiven he would have to pay for the consequences of His sin. This consequence was that the baby would die and that the sword will not depart from the house of David. Just because we receive God’s forgiveness does not mean we immediately live without the consequences of our sins.
My Dad then explained to me that the consequence of me knowing and yet not telling is that we pay for the damages. So sure we keep what we think is right but we ultimately pay for it elsewhere. My dad ultimately paid for the repairs himself. Kenny was not going to tell either but Kenny’s dad was not like my dad. So Kenny’s dad did not offer anything. When the news spread through the neighborhood that my dad paid for the repairs even though it was not his sons fault, Tiny confessed to his dad. Tiny’s dad was very apologetic. Tiny’s dad owned a small fruit cart in the neighborhood. He could not pay back my dad all at once but between the free fruit and payments all was finally made well and right.
*THIS STORY IS COPYRIGHT.
Tuesday, August 30, 2011
WHEN THEY SAY YOUR WRONG!!
1 Peter 2:12 and maintain good conduct among the non-Christians, so that though they now malign you as wrongdoers, they may see your good deeds and glorify God when he appears.
As a Christian and especially one that is on the front line of teh Christian Faith it is easy to find myself in the line of fire. People calling me a wrongdoer, holy roller, Jesus Freak, hypocrite and such. The bible never promises that those who live for Christ will be loved by everyone. As a matter of fact it is quite the opposite. A person who lives for Christ and follows His ways find themselves on the other end of the pole. Think of all the prophets and ministers who have ever lived before us. How were they treated and why? Do we see thuis now? No! Rather we have Christians who are loved by everyone. I mean everyone. Rick Warren, Joel Osteen and such are popular among the secular. Is there something they are doing right or is there something they are doing wrong? If the bible says that those who live Godly will suffer persecution and Jesus himself states that we will be persecuted and hated for His name sake, but instead you are loved, someone is telling lies. I can assure you it is not Jesus.
No matter what people say about you or to you remember this, at the end the promise is they will glorify God when he returns. We can only pray it is not too late for them.
In Jesus Name!
As a Christian and especially one that is on the front line of teh Christian Faith it is easy to find myself in the line of fire. People calling me a wrongdoer, holy roller, Jesus Freak, hypocrite and such. The bible never promises that those who live for Christ will be loved by everyone. As a matter of fact it is quite the opposite. A person who lives for Christ and follows His ways find themselves on the other end of the pole. Think of all the prophets and ministers who have ever lived before us. How were they treated and why? Do we see thuis now? No! Rather we have Christians who are loved by everyone. I mean everyone. Rick Warren, Joel Osteen and such are popular among the secular. Is there something they are doing right or is there something they are doing wrong? If the bible says that those who live Godly will suffer persecution and Jesus himself states that we will be persecuted and hated for His name sake, but instead you are loved, someone is telling lies. I can assure you it is not Jesus.
No matter what people say about you or to you remember this, at the end the promise is they will glorify God when he returns. We can only pray it is not too late for them.
In Jesus Name!
Thursday, May 5, 2011
Have we become Communists....
Psalms 2:1-3 Why do the heathen rage, and the people imagine a vain thing? (2) The kings of the earth set themselves, and the rulers take counsel together, against the LORD, and against his anointed, saying, (3) Let us break their bands asunder, and cast away their cords from us.
These days we are seeing a shift of the balance. That which was considered sacred in God has become the sacredness of the courtroom. What has occurred in the past 10 years that has made this America become so hostile to religious excercise and worship? People now look at the clegry and ministers of the Gospels as enemies to the State and the neighborhood. That which was once so welcomed, admired and respected in communities has become a soreness to the eyes of the people. The people who once protected the consitution and the freedom of religion are now fighting against it. They yell, "NO MOSQUE!!!" "NO TEMPLES!!!" "NO CHURCHES!!!" "NO CHRISTIANITY!!!" and eventually they are yelling and will yell, "NO GOD!!" Those who have a desire and zeal for their faith are not finding comfort in the leaders in which they have entrusted to protect their rights but are rather now fighting against them and bringing them to court. The leaders that God has placed in office are playing politics rather than standing up for what is right.
I assure you the sins of those who do such things will destroy them. They who yell and fight against God will find that their lives and the lives of their children are now damned and at stake. It reminds me of those who wanted to Crucify Christ. They also thought that they were doing the right thing so it went:
Matthew 27:24-25 When Pilate saw that he could prevail nothing, but that rather a tumult was made, he took water, and washed his hands before the multitude, saying, I am innocent of the blood of this just person: see ye to it. (25) Then answered all the people, and said, His blood be on us, and on our children.
AND SO IT WAS AND SO IT WILL BE TO THE REST.
These days we are seeing a shift of the balance. That which was considered sacred in God has become the sacredness of the courtroom. What has occurred in the past 10 years that has made this America become so hostile to religious excercise and worship? People now look at the clegry and ministers of the Gospels as enemies to the State and the neighborhood. That which was once so welcomed, admired and respected in communities has become a soreness to the eyes of the people. The people who once protected the consitution and the freedom of religion are now fighting against it. They yell, "NO MOSQUE!!!" "NO TEMPLES!!!" "NO CHURCHES!!!" "NO CHRISTIANITY!!!" and eventually they are yelling and will yell, "NO GOD!!" Those who have a desire and zeal for their faith are not finding comfort in the leaders in which they have entrusted to protect their rights but are rather now fighting against them and bringing them to court. The leaders that God has placed in office are playing politics rather than standing up for what is right.
I assure you the sins of those who do such things will destroy them. They who yell and fight against God will find that their lives and the lives of their children are now damned and at stake. It reminds me of those who wanted to Crucify Christ. They also thought that they were doing the right thing so it went:
Matthew 27:24-25 When Pilate saw that he could prevail nothing, but that rather a tumult was made, he took water, and washed his hands before the multitude, saying, I am innocent of the blood of this just person: see ye to it. (25) Then answered all the people, and said, His blood be on us, and on our children.
AND SO IT WAS AND SO IT WILL BE TO THE REST.
Wednesday, May 4, 2011
Did man make Up God??
Have you ever heard of the idea that God is a man-made concept? There are people in America and around the world that believe that Man for their own comfort came up with the concept of God. Maybe you are reading this and maybe you believe this concept.
This morning I was reading Romans chapter 4 in the bible. In this chapter the word of God declares that Abraham became a friend of God by faith before circumcision. As I continued to read I thought to myself, "Out of all the signs that God can give why Circumcision?" It was as the Holy Spirit spoke and said, "This is proof that man did not make me up." When we go back to the Old Testament story God tells Abraham to circumcise himself and all the males as a sign of the covenant.
You see, man would have no problem cutting a finger, shaving the head, maybe even losing a toe, but it truly takes a belief that there is a God when you start messing around with the privates. You can smile that is fine... If I made up God, being a man that would be the last thing I would even think of doing. Yet, Abraham and all did what God told them to do. Circumcision then truly is a sign. A sign that is private between God and the person (NO PUN INTENDED) and a sign to all humanity that God is real and not man made.
Today, god looks for a different circumcision. The circumcision that God is looking for today is the removal of the flesh and its lust from our heart.
Romans 2:28-29 For he is not a Jew, which is one outwardly; neither is that circumcision, which is outward in the flesh: (29) But he is a Jew, which is one inwardly; and circumcision is that of the heart, in the spirit, and not in the letter; whose praise is not of men, but of God.
May the Lord bless you today as you remember the Love He has for those who call on His name.
In Jesus name.
This morning I was reading Romans chapter 4 in the bible. In this chapter the word of God declares that Abraham became a friend of God by faith before circumcision. As I continued to read I thought to myself, "Out of all the signs that God can give why Circumcision?" It was as the Holy Spirit spoke and said, "This is proof that man did not make me up." When we go back to the Old Testament story God tells Abraham to circumcise himself and all the males as a sign of the covenant.
You see, man would have no problem cutting a finger, shaving the head, maybe even losing a toe, but it truly takes a belief that there is a God when you start messing around with the privates. You can smile that is fine... If I made up God, being a man that would be the last thing I would even think of doing. Yet, Abraham and all did what God told them to do. Circumcision then truly is a sign. A sign that is private between God and the person (NO PUN INTENDED) and a sign to all humanity that God is real and not man made.
Today, god looks for a different circumcision. The circumcision that God is looking for today is the removal of the flesh and its lust from our heart.
Romans 2:28-29 For he is not a Jew, which is one outwardly; neither is that circumcision, which is outward in the flesh: (29) But he is a Jew, which is one inwardly; and circumcision is that of the heart, in the spirit, and not in the letter; whose praise is not of men, but of God.
May the Lord bless you today as you remember the Love He has for those who call on His name.
In Jesus name.
Thursday, April 28, 2011
REMEMBER THE ORPHANS...
As some of you know the orphans have been a dear thing to my heart. Every year we have gathered family and friends and donated clothes, toys and money and given to the orphanages in Arizona. This past week, glory to God a door has been open for us. There are orphanages right here in the city right under our noses. They are orphanages that take care of children who have been abondanded after drug raids, or such. This is a call to all of us to step up to the plate and help. We need to put our resources together and support and sponsor a couple of these homes. Together we can reach and touch children and their hearts. We are the Body of Christ a people called to do the work of Jesus Christ. Let us gather and not only be people of words but people of action.
In Jesus Name,
Pastor Michael Salman
In Jesus Name,
Pastor Michael Salman
Wednesday, January 19, 2011
The countdown
Grace to you and peace from God our Father and our Lord Jesus Christ be with you. Well it is has been a most glorious New Year. To be able to spend time with family and friends and fellowship under His annointing has been the greatest. God is so good. Suzanne found out we are having another baby girl. I am rejoicing. The baby is so beautiful. We have been so blessed to have children and be able to raise them in the Grace of God. Thank you Jesus. The neighborhood has been so quiet ever since someone moved out. It really does make a difference among neighbors when those who cause discension are out of the way. All our neighbors have been waving hello to us and have been polite. The Lord has been good.
As for our worshipping it has been awesome. God is so good. I love it when my family and friends gather at the home and worship with us. This last Sunday we had worship and afterwards ate together. It is so cool to watch all the children and families play together. The kids playing football and children on the playground. I pray that the change to the proeprty will not effect this type of fellowship. I mean right now it is so good and peaceful and to convert the property into a commercial entity may lose this type of fellowship. It really is scary. We will still continue to fight such a change but in the meantime continue towards it to make sure nothing is hindered in our worship to God. I guess in the end whatever God's will is it is.
With that said, it has been quite an eventful and surprising turnabout. Last week we received notice from and I am surprised to say, the ACLU who is reviewing our case and considering it. They informed us that they can not take on the previous conviction issue but may file a lawsuit and injunction against the ordinance and regulations that state that such requirements on private worship are unconstitutional and in turn bring the conviction on these points invalid and reversal. I know what many people may say about the ACLU but the fact is these days the ADF and ACLJ are financially challenged. The ADF informed us that they will file an Amicus Brief supporting our position when we file in Federal Court. So it is going to be quite the event. We are ready and willing to battle this to the finish and whatever God's will is so it is. We love our City and pray for our city all the time. Unfortunetley right now our city is run by those who have no fear of God or consideration to religious freedoms. Just last year alone 5 churches and ministries have been attacked by those in our city. Christ the King and Cross Roads Church and Us. Why? Because they are listening to a community of people who do not like what God's Church is doing. This needs to stop and we are praying that it will in the Name of Jesus Christ.
Now on a good note. All the plan revisions are done and we should be submitting those this week. So at least we are moving in the right direction. Be wise as a serpent and peaceful as a dove. Meanwhile my brothers and sisters in Christ I plead for you to pray for me also as we go through the planning and court stuff. I will fight for the rights of our family and not only ours but all those who worship in their homes.Please pray and pass this prayer request on!! May the grace of God be with you.
As for our worshipping it has been awesome. God is so good. I love it when my family and friends gather at the home and worship with us. This last Sunday we had worship and afterwards ate together. It is so cool to watch all the children and families play together. The kids playing football and children on the playground. I pray that the change to the proeprty will not effect this type of fellowship. I mean right now it is so good and peaceful and to convert the property into a commercial entity may lose this type of fellowship. It really is scary. We will still continue to fight such a change but in the meantime continue towards it to make sure nothing is hindered in our worship to God. I guess in the end whatever God's will is it is.
With that said, it has been quite an eventful and surprising turnabout. Last week we received notice from and I am surprised to say, the ACLU who is reviewing our case and considering it. They informed us that they can not take on the previous conviction issue but may file a lawsuit and injunction against the ordinance and regulations that state that such requirements on private worship are unconstitutional and in turn bring the conviction on these points invalid and reversal. I know what many people may say about the ACLU but the fact is these days the ADF and ACLJ are financially challenged. The ADF informed us that they will file an Amicus Brief supporting our position when we file in Federal Court. So it is going to be quite the event. We are ready and willing to battle this to the finish and whatever God's will is so it is. We love our City and pray for our city all the time. Unfortunetley right now our city is run by those who have no fear of God or consideration to religious freedoms. Just last year alone 5 churches and ministries have been attacked by those in our city. Christ the King and Cross Roads Church and Us. Why? Because they are listening to a community of people who do not like what God's Church is doing. This needs to stop and we are praying that it will in the Name of Jesus Christ.
Now on a good note. All the plan revisions are done and we should be submitting those this week. So at least we are moving in the right direction. Be wise as a serpent and peaceful as a dove. Meanwhile my brothers and sisters in Christ I plead for you to pray for me also as we go through the planning and court stuff. I will fight for the rights of our family and not only ours but all those who worship in their homes.Please pray and pass this prayer request on!! May the grace of God be with you.
Wednesday, December 1, 2010
And so it was...
Well it has been a long time since I have blogged so let me first of all say, Happy Thanksgiving and Merry Christmas to all my family and friends in Christ.
I have been extremely busy this past month. Getting things together as i open up a new chapter in my life. LOL. God is good and He is worthy to be praised. I always am reminded of where I came and the chains that entagled me and how much God has provided for me.
The scripture that has been in my heart can be found in the book of Daniel. When Daniel knew that the paper was signed he went into his room as he always did and with the windows open prayed towards Jerusalem. Even thou he knew the consequences he still chose to pray and do what was in his heart.
As many of you know I worship at my home. I have family and friends come to my home and worship with me. I am not ashamed of this. There has been many times when i have tried to beat around the bush or try to make light of it but not anymore. I have the right by God to worship in my home with whom i want to worship with.
I know that there are people who think that should not be so. That worship and religion should be regulated and called a business or commercial. I know that there are people who are saying that I am a lawbreaker and criminal. All I can say is One Day God will turn this all around and all the laws that they are trying to place on Christians and those who worship in the home will be turned around and those laws that made me a criminal will be considered illegal. Then I wonder if they will be the criminals. I wonder if they will apologize. Even if the laws don't change, let it be know that I will continue to worship God as I always did.
So people can call it what they may, but Christians just need to be Christians and know that God is greater than anyone or anything in this life.
As the 3 men of God said, "God is able to deliver us from the fiery furnance, but if He does not let it be know that we have not worshipped or bowed down to your idol."
I have been extremely busy this past month. Getting things together as i open up a new chapter in my life. LOL. God is good and He is worthy to be praised. I always am reminded of where I came and the chains that entagled me and how much God has provided for me.
The scripture that has been in my heart can be found in the book of Daniel. When Daniel knew that the paper was signed he went into his room as he always did and with the windows open prayed towards Jerusalem. Even thou he knew the consequences he still chose to pray and do what was in his heart.
As many of you know I worship at my home. I have family and friends come to my home and worship with me. I am not ashamed of this. There has been many times when i have tried to beat around the bush or try to make light of it but not anymore. I have the right by God to worship in my home with whom i want to worship with.
I know that there are people who think that should not be so. That worship and religion should be regulated and called a business or commercial. I know that there are people who are saying that I am a lawbreaker and criminal. All I can say is One Day God will turn this all around and all the laws that they are trying to place on Christians and those who worship in the home will be turned around and those laws that made me a criminal will be considered illegal. Then I wonder if they will be the criminals. I wonder if they will apologize. Even if the laws don't change, let it be know that I will continue to worship God as I always did.
So people can call it what they may, but Christians just need to be Christians and know that God is greater than anyone or anything in this life.
As the 3 men of God said, "God is able to deliver us from the fiery furnance, but if He does not let it be know that we have not worshipped or bowed down to your idol."
Thursday, October 21, 2010
Halloween Is Evil....PERIOD!!!
Yes, it is about that time again when Christians who have no biblical backing have to be taught the most basic of doctrine. I do not say this to be condesending but only to show the ignorance and stupidity of churches who celebrate this holiday which is not Christian in nature but rather evil. I know what many Christians are saying, "Well this is a perfect opportunity to reach the lost by putting tracks in their bags or by giving them an alternative...yadda yadda blah blah blah...." Folks we do not dress like Elton John to reach homosexuals, so why do we think we have to dress like angels to tell people not to glorify or celebrate such a holiday. What hypocrisy!!!! If you think I am being harsh against this demonic holiday in nature I AM!! I hate this holiday and Christians who try to disguise it by calling it a Harvest Festival or Fall Festival are fooling themselves. Unless you are trully a farmer. Folks whether you are pitching or catching you are still playing baseball. Think about it and think real hard about it.,,
Halloween Glorifies:
Death - Horror - Fear - Darkness - Witchcraft and NEED I SAY MORE... EVERYTHING that Christians do not nor should have a part of period.
On Focus on the family a Witch who was high in the satanic realm after coming to Christ, said this, "If Christian parents really understood what goes on during the Halloween season, they would wash their kids mouth anytime they even mention the holiday." I agree with him.
Folks, the bible is very specific:
1 Thessalonians 5:22 Abstain from all appearance of evil.
Ephesians 5:11-12 And have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness, but rather reprove them. (12) For it is a shame even to speak of those things which are done of them in secret.
2 Corinthians 6:14-16 Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers: for what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? and what communion hath light with darkness? (15) And what concord hath Christ with Belial? or what part hath he that believeth with an infidel? (16) And what agreement hath the temple of God with idols? for ye are the temple of the living God; as God hath said, I will dwell in them, and walk in them; and I will be their God, and they shall be my people.
Need I say more. Folks I left a church because they decided after discussion and debate to still celebrate the holiday by calling it a harvest festival.
For those who are still not convinced? Do you have an alternative to Purim, Passover, Feast of Tabernacles, Pentecost, Feast of Trumpets....These are all Jewish holidays that our Christ celebrated....What is your alternative to that??? I bet your answer is, "were not Jewish." EXACTLY.....Well were are not the world either.
Halloween Glorifies:
Death - Horror - Fear - Darkness - Witchcraft and NEED I SAY MORE... EVERYTHING that Christians do not nor should have a part of period.
On Focus on the family a Witch who was high in the satanic realm after coming to Christ, said this, "If Christian parents really understood what goes on during the Halloween season, they would wash their kids mouth anytime they even mention the holiday." I agree with him.
Folks, the bible is very specific:
1 Thessalonians 5:22 Abstain from all appearance of evil.
Ephesians 5:11-12 And have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness, but rather reprove them. (12) For it is a shame even to speak of those things which are done of them in secret.
2 Corinthians 6:14-16 Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers: for what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? and what communion hath light with darkness? (15) And what concord hath Christ with Belial? or what part hath he that believeth with an infidel? (16) And what agreement hath the temple of God with idols? for ye are the temple of the living God; as God hath said, I will dwell in them, and walk in them; and I will be their God, and they shall be my people.
Need I say more. Folks I left a church because they decided after discussion and debate to still celebrate the holiday by calling it a harvest festival.
For those who are still not convinced? Do you have an alternative to Purim, Passover, Feast of Tabernacles, Pentecost, Feast of Trumpets....These are all Jewish holidays that our Christ celebrated....What is your alternative to that??? I bet your answer is, "were not Jewish." EXACTLY.....Well were are not the world either.
Monday, October 18, 2010
BECAUSE WE ARE WHO WE ARE
As some of you know, as a minister of Jesus Christ I have never been ashamed of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. When I became a Christian I became a witness for Christ bringing people to the reality of the need of Jesus. I preached in the streets, handed out tracs and openely and boldly declared my opposition of evil. With such work comes opposition. The bible even says,
2 Timothy 3:10-13 But thou hast fully known my doctrine, manner of life, purpose, faith, longsuffering, charity, patience, (11) Persecutions, afflictions, which came unto me at Antioch, at Iconium, at Lystra; what persecutions I endured: but out of them all the Lord delivered me. (12) Yea, and all that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution. (13) But evil men and seducers shall wax worse and worse, deceiving, and being deceived.
The city wants to put me in Jail and stop me from worshipping at my home and we have vigilanty neighbors taking pictures and harassing us because of our worship at home. With that said, PRAISE GOD!!! What are we doing that is evil??? We are Christians worshipping Jesus while the devils are out taking pictures and raging in anger because we live in America. If I wanted to live in a communist country I would go to China. These people who are so Anti-Christian have no idea that they are not fighting with man but with God. So we are always encouraged by scriptures to know that, Jesus and all the apostles at one time or another sat in our shoes because wicked people wanted to get rid of them. Ultimately no matter what the cost or time the Kingdom of God will WIN. The gates of HELL shall NOT prevail against the KINGDOM of GOD!!!!
Prison or Not the Gospel of God will not be stopped. Though I be in Chains you can not chain the Power of God!!
2 Timothy 3:10-13 But thou hast fully known my doctrine, manner of life, purpose, faith, longsuffering, charity, patience, (11) Persecutions, afflictions, which came unto me at Antioch, at Iconium, at Lystra; what persecutions I endured: but out of them all the Lord delivered me. (12) Yea, and all that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution. (13) But evil men and seducers shall wax worse and worse, deceiving, and being deceived.
The city wants to put me in Jail and stop me from worshipping at my home and we have vigilanty neighbors taking pictures and harassing us because of our worship at home. With that said, PRAISE GOD!!! What are we doing that is evil??? We are Christians worshipping Jesus while the devils are out taking pictures and raging in anger because we live in America. If I wanted to live in a communist country I would go to China. These people who are so Anti-Christian have no idea that they are not fighting with man but with God. So we are always encouraged by scriptures to know that, Jesus and all the apostles at one time or another sat in our shoes because wicked people wanted to get rid of them. Ultimately no matter what the cost or time the Kingdom of God will WIN. The gates of HELL shall NOT prevail against the KINGDOM of GOD!!!!
Prison or Not the Gospel of God will not be stopped. Though I be in Chains you can not chain the Power of God!!
Tuesday, September 28, 2010
Why do the Heathen Rage?
Today I experienced a very shocking sight. People actually gathering and rejoicing over a Pastor of the Christian faith sentenced. Instead of being ashamed people actually gloated over the situation. Did they think that this was pleasing in the sight of God? I can assure you that God is never pleased when any of his servants are condemned or persecuted. The same spirit that was in the people who crucified Christ was in these people's hearts today. They yelled Crucify Him and so these people cried out for harsh judgment. This demonic spirit has been in the people of the world since the world began. Even the Holy Apostles were prosecuted by people who yelled for their demise. Why did they want Peter and Paul and all the others killed? Because they preached a Gospel and message contrary to what the heathens believed. Shame on these people who have come against the people of God. SHAME ON THEM!!! The Evangelist Stephen said it best,
Acts 7:51-52 Ye stiffnecked and uncircumcised in heart and ears, ye do always resist the Holy Ghost: as your fathers did, so do ye. (52) Which of the prophets have not your fathers persecuted? and they have slain them which shewed before of the coming of the Just One; of whom ye have been now the betrayers and murderers:
You know what the saddest thing is? I feel so sorry for their souls. I know that as God has dealt with Korah and Dathan who opposed Moses so God will deal with each one of these people. Meanwhile I will rely on God and His saving grace. While all may fall, we will STILL BE ON TOP!!! Thank you Jesus for the things you have done in our lives and I thank you that I can even be found worthy to be persecuted for your Name!!
Acts 5:40-42 And to him they agreed: and when they had called the apostles, and beaten them, they commanded that they should not speak in the name of Jesus, and let them go. (41) And they departed from the presence of the council, rejoicing that they were counted worthy to suffer shame for his name. (42) And daily in the temple, and in every house, they ceased not to teach and preach Jesus Christ.
And So it shall be in our lives and in our home.
Acts 7:51-52 Ye stiffnecked and uncircumcised in heart and ears, ye do always resist the Holy Ghost: as your fathers did, so do ye. (52) Which of the prophets have not your fathers persecuted? and they have slain them which shewed before of the coming of the Just One; of whom ye have been now the betrayers and murderers:
You know what the saddest thing is? I feel so sorry for their souls. I know that as God has dealt with Korah and Dathan who opposed Moses so God will deal with each one of these people. Meanwhile I will rely on God and His saving grace. While all may fall, we will STILL BE ON TOP!!! Thank you Jesus for the things you have done in our lives and I thank you that I can even be found worthy to be persecuted for your Name!!
Acts 5:40-42 And to him they agreed: and when they had called the apostles, and beaten them, they commanded that they should not speak in the name of Jesus, and let them go. (41) And they departed from the presence of the council, rejoicing that they were counted worthy to suffer shame for his name. (42) And daily in the temple, and in every house, they ceased not to teach and preach Jesus Christ.
And So it shall be in our lives and in our home.
Monday, September 13, 2010
Shut The Hell Up and Sit Down!
I am sure you are caught by this title. Maybe you should be. These days so called believers of Jesus Christ have been a stench in the nostrils of Christianity. I want you to read something:
Acts 2:38-47 Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost. (39) For the promise is unto you, and to your children, and to all that are afar off, even as many as the Lord our God shall call. (40) And with many other words did he testify and exhort, saying, Save yourselves from this untoward generation. (41) Then they that gladly received his word were baptized: and the same day there were added unto them about three thousand souls. (42) And they continued stedfastly in the apostles' doctrine and fellowship, and in breaking of bread, and in prayers. (43) And fear came upon every soul: and many wonders and signs were done by the apostles. (44) And all that believed were together, and had all things common; (45) And sold their possessions and goods, and parted them to all men, as every man had need. (46) And they, continuing daily with one accord in the temple, and breaking bread from house to house, did eat their meat with gladness and singleness of heart, (47) Praising God, and having favour with all the people. And the Lord added to the church daily such as should be saved.
This is Christianity! They shared and they enjoyed and they gathered and they worshiped together daily. They read and they prayed. Meanwhile many who call themselves Christians have no time to gather or go to church or pray or read the bible and they still want to call themselves Christians! Folks this type of thinking is from HELL. They need to SHUT THE HELL UP and THEY NEED TO SIT DOWN!!
If you call yourself a Christian and you have other things ahead of God like YOUR JOB, YOUR KIDS SPORTS, YOUR RECREATION, YOUR FISHING and YOUR WHATEVER you need to repent. You are a damned sinner who needs Jesus to come into your life so that you may know that it is only through JESUS CHRIST can you find salvation and truth. I know that many may say, "wait a minute I do believe." SO WHAT!! Even the DEVILS believe and they fear God. There are people who believe and live with no fear of God. That folks is HELLISH THINKING so you need to SHUT THE HELL UP and SIT DOWN with the believers of Jesus Christ and grow in the power of the Holy Spirit.
If this message offends you let me know. I would gladly discuss the options and maybe you or I can learn from each other. If you know what I am talking about and you agree, let me know. Let people know that there are real believers who are looking bad because so called Christians are BLASPHEMING the name of Jesus.
JUST A NOTE TO SOME WHO MAY HAVE DIFFICULTIES: SHUT THE HELL UP means taking hellish thinking and closing it up. Removing it from your life. AND SIT DOWN means get to worship and gathering of believers stop making excuses and putting other things fist.
Acts 2:38-47 Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost. (39) For the promise is unto you, and to your children, and to all that are afar off, even as many as the Lord our God shall call. (40) And with many other words did he testify and exhort, saying, Save yourselves from this untoward generation. (41) Then they that gladly received his word were baptized: and the same day there were added unto them about three thousand souls. (42) And they continued stedfastly in the apostles' doctrine and fellowship, and in breaking of bread, and in prayers. (43) And fear came upon every soul: and many wonders and signs were done by the apostles. (44) And all that believed were together, and had all things common; (45) And sold their possessions and goods, and parted them to all men, as every man had need. (46) And they, continuing daily with one accord in the temple, and breaking bread from house to house, did eat their meat with gladness and singleness of heart, (47) Praising God, and having favour with all the people. And the Lord added to the church daily such as should be saved.
This is Christianity! They shared and they enjoyed and they gathered and they worshiped together daily. They read and they prayed. Meanwhile many who call themselves Christians have no time to gather or go to church or pray or read the bible and they still want to call themselves Christians! Folks this type of thinking is from HELL. They need to SHUT THE HELL UP and THEY NEED TO SIT DOWN!!
If you call yourself a Christian and you have other things ahead of God like YOUR JOB, YOUR KIDS SPORTS, YOUR RECREATION, YOUR FISHING and YOUR WHATEVER you need to repent. You are a damned sinner who needs Jesus to come into your life so that you may know that it is only through JESUS CHRIST can you find salvation and truth. I know that many may say, "wait a minute I do believe." SO WHAT!! Even the DEVILS believe and they fear God. There are people who believe and live with no fear of God. That folks is HELLISH THINKING so you need to SHUT THE HELL UP and SIT DOWN with the believers of Jesus Christ and grow in the power of the Holy Spirit.
If this message offends you let me know. I would gladly discuss the options and maybe you or I can learn from each other. If you know what I am talking about and you agree, let me know. Let people know that there are real believers who are looking bad because so called Christians are BLASPHEMING the name of Jesus.
JUST A NOTE TO SOME WHO MAY HAVE DIFFICULTIES: SHUT THE HELL UP means taking hellish thinking and closing it up. Removing it from your life. AND SIT DOWN means get to worship and gathering of believers stop making excuses and putting other things fist.
Saturday, September 4, 2010
A Christian Saved By Grace!!
Now that you have accepted Jesus Christ as your Lord and Saviour there are a few things you need to know. Being saved by grace has nothing to do with works. It is all about the death of Jesus Christ on the cross. Whatever you do now means absolutely nothing with Salvation. You're saved by grace and not by works. So here are some simple steps to remain saved:
1) Don't join a local body church. Even thou Jesus formed the Church and he made some to be Pastors and Teachers you are saved by grace and do not need to be under control or accountable to anyone but Jesus. Jesus is your Pastor. Jesus saved you and being part of a church is just like being part of the temple in Jerusalem. Since the temple no longer exists, your needing to be part of a church should no longer exists. Further think about all the benifits you would have when not being part of a Church. You get to go to swapmeets, malls, stores and spend more time with yout family. I know that this is what Jesus would want. Church just takes too much time.
2) If you must join a local body of believers join a group that does not tell you what to do. You don't want to be around people who are legalistic. They say things like, help or you need to pray or read your bible or feed the homeless or something like that. We are saved by grace and not by works. Being a Christian is having the right to do nothing if you don't want to. If you help or support people may see you as self righteous and you don't want that to happen. It is Better to be safe than sorry.
3) If you also feel like you need to join a fellowship, join one that tells you what you want, not what you need. Don't be part of a group that talks about sin, repentances, works and conviction that is all Old testament stuff. We believe in a New Testament Jesus. He says things like love, mercy, faith, hope, and all that good stuff. Especially forgiveness. Remember the thing the Lord said, "Hey, no ones perfect." or something like that. I mean we already going to heaven we should be able to go there feeling good about ourselves.
4) Don't tithe. Titihing doesn't save you. I mean you don't get into heaven by paying your way in. People who tell you to tithe have no idea what it is like not having money. They tithe because they have money. They say the reason they have money is because they tithe, but they don't know what it's like not having money because they tithe. If they stop tithing maybe they would understand how we feel. Anyway, even thou Jesus said, "you will reap what you sow" he is only talking about farming. Tithing is Old Testament stuff.
5) Have worldy friends. Don't get personal with Christians. Born Again Christians are too religious. By the way you don't need people who know what you believe in to judge you for not doing them. It is better to have friends who don't know what you believe in so that when you do what your not supposed to do they don't judge you. I believe it was the apostle Paul who said, "Ignoarance is bliss." or was that Shakespear. I don't know I think it make sense.
6) You don't need to read the bible. The bible is old and it is made for people who lived during the time of Jesus and before. Being saved by grace is means you believe in the Bible but don't have to read it. By the way you can read other things that may help you feel happy and good about yourself. Like a devotional called, "365 day devotional of encouraging words" or "Don't judge me and I won't judge you. There were even." or "Purpose Drivien Life" or "Prayer of jabez" or maybe a small piece of scriptures to meet your wants. You can still say you are a Christian and that you believe in the Bible without reading it.
7) Last but not least, Don't force religion on other people. Living by grace is about acceptance and tolerance. Jesus accepted us just the way we are so that we can accept people just the way they are. When you witness about your faith you become forceful and God does not like people who are forceful. We just need to accept them and tolerate them just the way they are. Let them make their own choice even though they don't know that there is a choice. Parents this also means your children. Let them choose what to believe in or what not to believe in. Grace means you accept your daughter if she decides to do what other people on MTV do, or your son when he dresses up like a Zombie. Jesus loves zombies that is why he rose Lazarus from the dead. Lazarus was a Zombie and Jesus accepted him. Are we better than Jesus? NO! So accept and tolerate and let them decide. Being a witness is being a nad and people don't like nags.
If you follow these steps you will be a Christian who will find that you have fullfilled the golden rule and that you are saved by grace. Treat others like you want them to treat you. You will find yourself happy and joyful. You will find that when you die you will be with the Lord. I think.
1) Don't join a local body church. Even thou Jesus formed the Church and he made some to be Pastors and Teachers you are saved by grace and do not need to be under control or accountable to anyone but Jesus. Jesus is your Pastor. Jesus saved you and being part of a church is just like being part of the temple in Jerusalem. Since the temple no longer exists, your needing to be part of a church should no longer exists. Further think about all the benifits you would have when not being part of a Church. You get to go to swapmeets, malls, stores and spend more time with yout family. I know that this is what Jesus would want. Church just takes too much time.
2) If you must join a local body of believers join a group that does not tell you what to do. You don't want to be around people who are legalistic. They say things like, help or you need to pray or read your bible or feed the homeless or something like that. We are saved by grace and not by works. Being a Christian is having the right to do nothing if you don't want to. If you help or support people may see you as self righteous and you don't want that to happen. It is Better to be safe than sorry.
3) If you also feel like you need to join a fellowship, join one that tells you what you want, not what you need. Don't be part of a group that talks about sin, repentances, works and conviction that is all Old testament stuff. We believe in a New Testament Jesus. He says things like love, mercy, faith, hope, and all that good stuff. Especially forgiveness. Remember the thing the Lord said, "Hey, no ones perfect." or something like that. I mean we already going to heaven we should be able to go there feeling good about ourselves.
4) Don't tithe. Titihing doesn't save you. I mean you don't get into heaven by paying your way in. People who tell you to tithe have no idea what it is like not having money. They tithe because they have money. They say the reason they have money is because they tithe, but they don't know what it's like not having money because they tithe. If they stop tithing maybe they would understand how we feel. Anyway, even thou Jesus said, "you will reap what you sow" he is only talking about farming. Tithing is Old Testament stuff.
5) Have worldy friends. Don't get personal with Christians. Born Again Christians are too religious. By the way you don't need people who know what you believe in to judge you for not doing them. It is better to have friends who don't know what you believe in so that when you do what your not supposed to do they don't judge you. I believe it was the apostle Paul who said, "Ignoarance is bliss." or was that Shakespear. I don't know I think it make sense.
6) You don't need to read the bible. The bible is old and it is made for people who lived during the time of Jesus and before. Being saved by grace is means you believe in the Bible but don't have to read it. By the way you can read other things that may help you feel happy and good about yourself. Like a devotional called, "365 day devotional of encouraging words" or "Don't judge me and I won't judge you. There were even." or "Purpose Drivien Life" or "Prayer of jabez" or maybe a small piece of scriptures to meet your wants. You can still say you are a Christian and that you believe in the Bible without reading it.
7) Last but not least, Don't force religion on other people. Living by grace is about acceptance and tolerance. Jesus accepted us just the way we are so that we can accept people just the way they are. When you witness about your faith you become forceful and God does not like people who are forceful. We just need to accept them and tolerate them just the way they are. Let them make their own choice even though they don't know that there is a choice. Parents this also means your children. Let them choose what to believe in or what not to believe in. Grace means you accept your daughter if she decides to do what other people on MTV do, or your son when he dresses up like a Zombie. Jesus loves zombies that is why he rose Lazarus from the dead. Lazarus was a Zombie and Jesus accepted him. Are we better than Jesus? NO! So accept and tolerate and let them decide. Being a witness is being a nad and people don't like nags.
If you follow these steps you will be a Christian who will find that you have fullfilled the golden rule and that you are saved by grace. Treat others like you want them to treat you. You will find yourself happy and joyful. You will find that when you die you will be with the Lord. I think.
Tuesday, August 31, 2010
Prosecution For Religious Beliefs
This past week has been to say the least, "interesting week." As some of you know on Monday, I was found responsible for the violations that existed on the property. I was responsible for the violations like Demolition of a Pool, Putting electrical circuits in the garage, misusing an extension cord, putting up a Costco tent without proper permits or foundation and too close to a building. Putting chairs that were used for worship in the storage in the rear. Folks this is not a joke. Really if you move in a house and your previous owner did work on the property without a permit and the city finds out 4 years after you moved in that there was no permit you are responsible and violated.
Here is the dussy. I was also prosecuted for conducting Christian worship on the property. The Judge who I believe is a good judge and fair through out the trial made a comment, she stated, "I hope Mr. Salman understands that he is not being prosecuted for religious worship on the property only that if he wants to have worship on the property he must conform to the requirements and the standards that the city is asking." This statement sounds very fair. But is it really the truth? Am I not being prosecuted for religious worship. Here is what I mean.
During the trial the City witnesses stated that if I had birthday parties on the property I do not need these things, If I had used the room to play games I do not need these things. Yet, because I gather to worship on the property in a building that looks like a religious building with chairs, pulpit, art and stuff I must conform my property to commercial standards. The fact is I AM BEING PROSECUTED because I worship on the property with my family and friends. PERIOD. If I had a big screen T.V. with football posters and art and pool table and bar and stuff they would not violate me for a Sports Bar. EVERYONE of those who worship with me, know we DO NOT publicly advertise. We do not have signs, or service times in the front or on a website. We are private individuals and so forth.
Nonetheless, I believe the laws that are in place are wrong and discriminatory and I will put my money where my mouth is. May God give me strength and we battle this injustice. Please pray as we get through this. IN JESUS NAME!
Here is the dussy. I was also prosecuted for conducting Christian worship on the property. The Judge who I believe is a good judge and fair through out the trial made a comment, she stated, "I hope Mr. Salman understands that he is not being prosecuted for religious worship on the property only that if he wants to have worship on the property he must conform to the requirements and the standards that the city is asking." This statement sounds very fair. But is it really the truth? Am I not being prosecuted for religious worship. Here is what I mean.
During the trial the City witnesses stated that if I had birthday parties on the property I do not need these things, If I had used the room to play games I do not need these things. Yet, because I gather to worship on the property in a building that looks like a religious building with chairs, pulpit, art and stuff I must conform my property to commercial standards. The fact is I AM BEING PROSECUTED because I worship on the property with my family and friends. PERIOD. If I had a big screen T.V. with football posters and art and pool table and bar and stuff they would not violate me for a Sports Bar. EVERYONE of those who worship with me, know we DO NOT publicly advertise. We do not have signs, or service times in the front or on a website. We are private individuals and so forth.
Nonetheless, I believe the laws that are in place are wrong and discriminatory and I will put my money where my mouth is. May God give me strength and we battle this injustice. Please pray as we get through this. IN JESUS NAME!
Monday, August 30, 2010
Its All Good - Trial
For those of you know what the theme is for this past month it is "Its all good." Today we completed a 5 day trial. During the trial we made our points to the best we can. We filed our paperwork and did what we needed to do. There really is not more we could have done. I believe we did the best anyone can do. Nonetheless, I was found guilty and a responsible party for the violations that existed on the property. The reason I was found guilty was not due to the evidence that I was seen doing it, ordered it or anything like that but rather because I live there. Let me say that I am sure glad no one committed murder because then I would really be in trouble. Since I live there I would have been responsible.
On the bright side we were not discouraged. We believe we are in the hands of God and to be prosecuted for worshipping God is really not that bad. A blessing if you must. There has been a lot of stress on our family but nonetheless it is the same thing you go through just because you go through it. The verdict has catapulted us to the Federal Arena. The judge stated in her verdict that she was not here to argue the law. This is true, she can not change the law. Even thou we were not asking her to, only that this law not be applied to us but rather to public assemblies which we are not. Oh well what can you do. This is why it is important to take this to another venue because there are courts that are there to change the law. This is our goal not only for us but for all Christians who have worship in thier homes and should not fear persecution because neighbors don't want a "CHURCH" there.
Please pray earnestly and fervently for us as we make our way through. God has and is bringing victory to us in the name of Jesus.
On the bright side we were not discouraged. We believe we are in the hands of God and to be prosecuted for worshipping God is really not that bad. A blessing if you must. There has been a lot of stress on our family but nonetheless it is the same thing you go through just because you go through it. The verdict has catapulted us to the Federal Arena. The judge stated in her verdict that she was not here to argue the law. This is true, she can not change the law. Even thou we were not asking her to, only that this law not be applied to us but rather to public assemblies which we are not. Oh well what can you do. This is why it is important to take this to another venue because there are courts that are there to change the law. This is our goal not only for us but for all Christians who have worship in thier homes and should not fear persecution because neighbors don't want a "CHURCH" there.
Please pray earnestly and fervently for us as we make our way through. God has and is bringing victory to us in the name of Jesus.
Wednesday, August 25, 2010
Wanda Earles - In Memory 8/24/2010
It was a beautiful afternoon and we were at a Prison Fellowship function. All the ministers were gathering together and the meeting was on the way. I stood at the soda area filling a cup of soda when I was approached by Debbie Petty the coordinator of the prison ministers. She said she wanted me to meet someone. She called to her and out from the crowd emerged a bright red hair spunky little lady. "Pastor Michael, this is Wanda." There she stood in front of me, she was a 10 foot 300 pound wrestler in a 5 foot 4 110 lb frame. Hello, I am Wanda. I gave her a big hug. Debbie said, "I want you to take Wanda under your wing Pastor, she is a sweet little lady." From that day on she never left my side.
She was a sweet lady. She also was also a handful. Full of opinions and she was never afraid to tell you what she thought about anything. You can always count on Sister Wanda being there. She always wanted me to do this and that. She had some great points and some were just plain silly but of course I listened. After service you can always count on her telling me that it was the best sermon she had ever heard. "I love you Pastor Michael, that message was great." She would say as she held my hand.
"I love you guys" was always something you heard her say. The last year was probably the hardest for her and for us. The Firey red hair began to lose its fire. Her quick walk in was replaced with a walker. Of course she was in denial with that walker the first year. She would just come in with the walker so slow and then after worship she would almost trot to the front to tell me how much she loved me. This lady just loved God. She was the sweetest. Of course I would never forget the stories she told. Stories that you would find in a movie. Never a dull moment for sister Wanda.
It was not too long ago when things started to effect this strong, stubborn saint of God. No matter what happened she refused to be hurt and refused to accept she was getting old. We all knew thou and she also was told by God to prepare. I know God told her. The things she began to do was only things people begin to do only if you had a personal relationship with God.
Even while getting ready she still had that fire. I saw it the day I walked into service with a beard. "Hello Sister Wanda" was my normal greeting. A kiss on the cheek and a hug. Suddenly it was met with a finger point to the face and a sharp rebuke. "You go right back into that house and shave that off." She gave me such a hard time. "None of my men wear a beard." Boy she never let it go. Yet, it never stopped her from telling me she loved me. Even sometimes with tears in her eyes telling me she loved me, "But you still need to shave that beard off."
I remember seeing her a week before she left. I walked into the hospital and there she laid all drugged out with IV's in her arm, really tired and exhausted, she looked up and I gave her a hug and kiss and she said to me, "You still have that beard?" Every nurse that walked in, she would say, "That is my Pastor, I am so happy he is here, but he needs to shave that beard." I promised her that as soon as she gets better and comes back to worship I will shave it off just for her, that the only thing she needs to do is just get better. I put on some Christian Music and we sat for about an hour or so singing as she dozed in and out.
This beautiful saint of God, will never be forgotten. My family adored her and she just loved my kids. I won't even go into the fact that she would talk to me about how precious my family was and how lucky I was to have 5 girls and how precious they were.
I love you Sister Wanda and one thing I am assure of is you were leaning on the everlasting arms. Rest in Peace you beautiful saint of God. You will be missed.
Pastor Michael Salman
She was a sweet lady. She also was also a handful. Full of opinions and she was never afraid to tell you what she thought about anything. You can always count on Sister Wanda being there. She always wanted me to do this and that. She had some great points and some were just plain silly but of course I listened. After service you can always count on her telling me that it was the best sermon she had ever heard. "I love you Pastor Michael, that message was great." She would say as she held my hand.
"I love you guys" was always something you heard her say. The last year was probably the hardest for her and for us. The Firey red hair began to lose its fire. Her quick walk in was replaced with a walker. Of course she was in denial with that walker the first year. She would just come in with the walker so slow and then after worship she would almost trot to the front to tell me how much she loved me. This lady just loved God. She was the sweetest. Of course I would never forget the stories she told. Stories that you would find in a movie. Never a dull moment for sister Wanda.
It was not too long ago when things started to effect this strong, stubborn saint of God. No matter what happened she refused to be hurt and refused to accept she was getting old. We all knew thou and she also was told by God to prepare. I know God told her. The things she began to do was only things people begin to do only if you had a personal relationship with God.
Even while getting ready she still had that fire. I saw it the day I walked into service with a beard. "Hello Sister Wanda" was my normal greeting. A kiss on the cheek and a hug. Suddenly it was met with a finger point to the face and a sharp rebuke. "You go right back into that house and shave that off." She gave me such a hard time. "None of my men wear a beard." Boy she never let it go. Yet, it never stopped her from telling me she loved me. Even sometimes with tears in her eyes telling me she loved me, "But you still need to shave that beard off."
I remember seeing her a week before she left. I walked into the hospital and there she laid all drugged out with IV's in her arm, really tired and exhausted, she looked up and I gave her a hug and kiss and she said to me, "You still have that beard?" Every nurse that walked in, she would say, "That is my Pastor, I am so happy he is here, but he needs to shave that beard." I promised her that as soon as she gets better and comes back to worship I will shave it off just for her, that the only thing she needs to do is just get better. I put on some Christian Music and we sat for about an hour or so singing as she dozed in and out.
This beautiful saint of God, will never be forgotten. My family adored her and she just loved my kids. I won't even go into the fact that she would talk to me about how precious my family was and how lucky I was to have 5 girls and how precious they were.
I love you Sister Wanda and one thing I am assure of is you were leaning on the everlasting arms. Rest in Peace you beautiful saint of God. You will be missed.
Pastor Michael Salman
Thursday, August 12, 2010
The New Immigration Enforcement
Grace to you and peace from God our Father and our Lord Jesus Christ. I thought I would start this blog just because I believe that many people have forgotten what it means to be a Christian. We are Christians FIRST and Americans SECOND. If you don't believe this then you will not agree with what I have to say and you might as well just move on to the next blog. If you do believe this then you should believe what I am about to say or at least consider it.
People say we have an immigration problem. This is true. Why is it such a problem? It is not because we don't have room or we don't have the money, God knows many of us Americans live in more than our necessities and if any of you complain about money spent on our healthcare and food than you might as well complain on the 1 million dollar patriot missle:
The fact is the reason why so many are upset, is the crime issue. Does cracking down on immigration help that?? Some say yes and some say no. So with that said, lets consider this, if of course your still reading this Christian.
How many BORN AGAIN CHRISTIAN families will be effected by this law? Think about it. Legal or illegal, they are CHRISTIANS AND THEY ARE OUR BROTHERS AND SISTERS IN CHRIST. I mean you can dismiss them as Christians they are illegal and breaking the law??? How many CHURCHES, MINISTRIES, PASTORS and OTHER CHRISITAN organizations will be effected??? Really think about. You are a Christian right??? HOW MANY FAMILIES THAT ARE CHRISTIAN BORN AGAIN AND LOVE OUR LORD will be effected??? How many will lose their mother or father or even a child because MANY years ago they came here illegally??? HOW MANY??? THINK ABOUT IT.
FOR CRYING OUT LOUD WE ARE CHRISTIANS FIRST, AMERICANS SECOND!! Do you love your LORD and HIS PEOPLE or DO YOU LOVE YOUR COUNTRY MORE?
THE fact is any law legal or not, passed or not, voted on or not, if it effects the Christian Community, it is a law from Hell! If you think I am wrong then you are a hypocrite and I will prove it by the next statement...
If tomorrow they pass a law saying that Same Sex Marriage is legal andyou as a Christian must accept it. I assure you that you as a Christian and we as the CHURCH OF GOD WILL NOT ACCEPT it. Legal or Not, to us marriage is man and woman. PERIOD!
Enough Said.
Pastor Michael Salman
Servant of the Most High God
People say we have an immigration problem. This is true. Why is it such a problem? It is not because we don't have room or we don't have the money, God knows many of us Americans live in more than our necessities and if any of you complain about money spent on our healthcare and food than you might as well complain on the 1 million dollar patriot missle:
"US Army Budget FY2011". http://asafm.army.mil/Documents/OfficeDocuments/Budget/BudgetMaterials/FY11//pbhl.pdfRetrieved 2010-04-06.
We have spent 100 Billions of Dollars on Countries that none of us benefit from. So stop with this money thing. It is getting really old and for some of us, it only proves your ignorance and your hypocrisies. Now with that out of the way.
The fact is the reason why so many are upset, is the crime issue. Does cracking down on immigration help that?? Some say yes and some say no. So with that said, lets consider this, if of course your still reading this Christian.
How many BORN AGAIN CHRISTIAN families will be effected by this law? Think about it. Legal or illegal, they are CHRISTIANS AND THEY ARE OUR BROTHERS AND SISTERS IN CHRIST. I mean you can dismiss them as Christians they are illegal and breaking the law??? How many CHURCHES, MINISTRIES, PASTORS and OTHER CHRISITAN organizations will be effected??? Really think about. You are a Christian right??? HOW MANY FAMILIES THAT ARE CHRISTIAN BORN AGAIN AND LOVE OUR LORD will be effected??? How many will lose their mother or father or even a child because MANY years ago they came here illegally??? HOW MANY??? THINK ABOUT IT.
FOR CRYING OUT LOUD WE ARE CHRISTIANS FIRST, AMERICANS SECOND!! Do you love your LORD and HIS PEOPLE or DO YOU LOVE YOUR COUNTRY MORE?
THE fact is any law legal or not, passed or not, voted on or not, if it effects the Christian Community, it is a law from Hell! If you think I am wrong then you are a hypocrite and I will prove it by the next statement...
If tomorrow they pass a law saying that Same Sex Marriage is legal andyou as a Christian must accept it. I assure you that you as a Christian and we as the CHURCH OF GOD WILL NOT ACCEPT it. Legal or Not, to us marriage is man and woman. PERIOD!
Enough Said.
Pastor Michael Salman
Servant of the Most High God
Friday, August 6, 2010
Why, Yes! I Don't!
Tonight we had about a 2 hour discussion on the Trinity. The subject was on Jesus The Begotten. From there it went into the Trinity. It was very good to say the least. Of course it probably was to me and those who love these discussions.
So at the end someone came and asked me if I believed in the TRINITY? So here is what I do believe. I know as does everyone, the Trinity is a man made description of a concept which is seen in the Bible. Not directly taught just seen. (EMPHASIS ADDED) There is no real teaching of it in the Bible other than the interchanging of words of Father, Son, and Spirit. With that said and that understood here is what I believe is the TRUTH and is TAUGHT and PREACHED and UNDERSTOOD IN THE BIBLE.
1) I believe there is ONLY 1 God.
2) This 1 God is the Creator of Heaven and Earth.
3) This 1 God became Flesh and we saw Him as the Son Of God.
4) This 1 God in the flesh died and was buried and rose from the dead.
5) I believe that this God has given us the Name of Jesus, in which all those who believe in Him shall be saved.
6) This 1 God deals with humanity by living in all those who believed in Him and the Sacrifice on the Cross.
7) I believe when I go into heaven I will see and only be with this 1 God.
So this is what I believe and this is what I know is the truth. Anything more or less is man's definition and grasp of what they are trying to explain. Every time I meet someone who does not like my aspect of Trinity, which by the way is what the Bible teaches, they always seem to think they have a better answer.
It's funny thou because no matter what they say they always end up with the word, it just a mystery and no one can understand. All that tells me is that their concept of Trinity is not important to humanity and their salvation or else God would have made it clear. WHICH BY THE WAY, I do not agree. I believe God has made it very clear and understandable. It's just those who believe in the Trinity refuse to believe in any other way then to say it is a mystery hard to explain.
It's kind of like a rule to a bad game. I'm thinking of a number from 1 to 1 million and after you have said every number, we are all wrong, and when asked what is the number their answer is, I don't know but it was not any of the ones you said.
God the Father in Creation - God the Son in Salvation - God Living in Us by and through the Spirit.
This is what the Bible Teaches and what the bibles shows. PERIOD. Of course maybe some people prefer to guess a number from 1 to 1 million. LOL
So at the end someone came and asked me if I believed in the TRINITY? So here is what I do believe. I know as does everyone, the Trinity is a man made description of a concept which is seen in the Bible. Not directly taught just seen. (EMPHASIS ADDED) There is no real teaching of it in the Bible other than the interchanging of words of Father, Son, and Spirit. With that said and that understood here is what I believe is the TRUTH and is TAUGHT and PREACHED and UNDERSTOOD IN THE BIBLE.
1) I believe there is ONLY 1 God.
2) This 1 God is the Creator of Heaven and Earth.
3) This 1 God became Flesh and we saw Him as the Son Of God.
4) This 1 God in the flesh died and was buried and rose from the dead.
5) I believe that this God has given us the Name of Jesus, in which all those who believe in Him shall be saved.
6) This 1 God deals with humanity by living in all those who believed in Him and the Sacrifice on the Cross.
7) I believe when I go into heaven I will see and only be with this 1 God.
So this is what I believe and this is what I know is the truth. Anything more or less is man's definition and grasp of what they are trying to explain. Every time I meet someone who does not like my aspect of Trinity, which by the way is what the Bible teaches, they always seem to think they have a better answer.
It's funny thou because no matter what they say they always end up with the word, it just a mystery and no one can understand. All that tells me is that their concept of Trinity is not important to humanity and their salvation or else God would have made it clear. WHICH BY THE WAY, I do not agree. I believe God has made it very clear and understandable. It's just those who believe in the Trinity refuse to believe in any other way then to say it is a mystery hard to explain.
It's kind of like a rule to a bad game. I'm thinking of a number from 1 to 1 million and after you have said every number, we are all wrong, and when asked what is the number their answer is, I don't know but it was not any of the ones you said.
God the Father in Creation - God the Son in Salvation - God Living in Us by and through the Spirit.
This is what the Bible Teaches and what the bibles shows. PERIOD. Of course maybe some people prefer to guess a number from 1 to 1 million. LOL
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