"Most Americans are unaware of the fact that over two hundred years ago
the United States had declared war on Islam, and Thomas Jefferson led
the charge!"
This bit of ignorance is from a chain email designed to promote fear and loathing of Muslims. The Politifact
site has a well reasoned rebuttal. And yes I know that fact check sites
themselves need to be fact checked, which I did.
For a less shrill take on the Barbary Pirates,
I recommend Brian Kilmeade's book on the subject. A great read, like a
novel, but well researched. I found it to be slanted towards support for
interventionist foreign policy, but with that caveat it's still a fact
filled introduction to the subject for our history deficient culture.
Thomas
Jefferson didn't declare war on Islam. That's as silly and ignorant as
saying he was against Christianity because he collected some of Jesus's
words in a book.
If corsairs sent by Muslim states
meant that Islam is our enemy, then Christian and Jewish involvement in the
African slave trade meant the other two monotheistic faiths are enemies
as well. That would be absurd, but also logically consistent. And that
is the danger of anti Muslim hysteria - it easily boomerangs against us
Christians, and historically Jews end up being victimized by both
Christians and Muslims when these religious wars occur. The Crusades
being an example.
Last but not least. Most of the
anti Muslim hysteria comes from Trump supporters. So, here's a question
for Trump supporters who think Islam is the top threat to civilization:
why is President Trump selling $billions worth of advanced weapons to the
Saudis, who for three centuries have allied with Wahhabists, the actual
leading sponsors of jihadist terror?
Tuesday, April 30, 2019
Monday, April 9, 2018
If I Was Trump's Speechwriter
My fellow Americans.
My physician put something in my tea that he said will help me speak more clearly.
America is great again, thanks to my magnificent leadership.
As the greatest President of the greatest country that ever countried, it is imperative that I enforce humane standards of military aggression in the world, especially when it comes to murdering civilians.
I have ordered hundreds of sorties which have killed thousands of innocent men, women, and children. But there were some terrorists killed, too. More importantly, NOT ONE person was killed by chemical weapons. Rest assured, that if you are ever targeted for a violent death at the hands of America's military, it won't be by chemical weapons. America kills children with drone strikes, cluster bombs, napalm, as well as by conventional artillery fire and small arms. And nukes too, I think - history isn't my forte'. Because we are great, it is the United States' prerogative to decide the moral and proper way to kill innocent people. Only America and it's allies may murder civilians, and only with weapons approved by America.
Israel and Saudi Arabia have 007 status, and are licensed to murder with impunity in places like Syria, Gaza, the West Bank, and Yemen.
Now, about Syria. One year ago, a chemical weapons attack occurred in that country. All the people I regularly denounce as "fake news" assured me that Assad was responsible. For reasons I won't disclose, I heeded that mob, and launched about $100 million worth of Tomahawk missiles against Assad's Syrian Arab Army. I realize that evidence later emerged that the chemical weapons were actually launched by terrorists fighting against the SAA, but that is quite beside the point. You see, there have long been plans for a pipeline across Syria - which would redound to the benefit of Iran, Syria, and perhaps Russia. It would undermine American-Israeli-Saudi hegemony in the region, and that is unacceptable to the psychopaths who actually run our great country.
So, a year later, we have another chemical attack in Syria, and the same fake news people who blamed Assad last year, are again laying it on him. Therefore, I will be ordering more attacks on Syria, and will do so before facts have a chance to undermine the anti Assad hysteria.
Because despite the fact that I, your great President, decry the waste and harm caused by our endless wars, those wars will go on no matter who is President.
Please don't tell anyone that I'm not really in charge.
My physician put something in my tea that he said will help me speak more clearly.
America is great again, thanks to my magnificent leadership.
As the greatest President of the greatest country that ever countried, it is imperative that I enforce humane standards of military aggression in the world, especially when it comes to murdering civilians.
I have ordered hundreds of sorties which have killed thousands of innocent men, women, and children. But there were some terrorists killed, too. More importantly, NOT ONE person was killed by chemical weapons. Rest assured, that if you are ever targeted for a violent death at the hands of America's military, it won't be by chemical weapons. America kills children with drone strikes, cluster bombs, napalm, as well as by conventional artillery fire and small arms. And nukes too, I think - history isn't my forte'. Because we are great, it is the United States' prerogative to decide the moral and proper way to kill innocent people. Only America and it's allies may murder civilians, and only with weapons approved by America.
Israel and Saudi Arabia have 007 status, and are licensed to murder with impunity in places like Syria, Gaza, the West Bank, and Yemen.
Now, about Syria. One year ago, a chemical weapons attack occurred in that country. All the people I regularly denounce as "fake news" assured me that Assad was responsible. For reasons I won't disclose, I heeded that mob, and launched about $100 million worth of Tomahawk missiles against Assad's Syrian Arab Army. I realize that evidence later emerged that the chemical weapons were actually launched by terrorists fighting against the SAA, but that is quite beside the point. You see, there have long been plans for a pipeline across Syria - which would redound to the benefit of Iran, Syria, and perhaps Russia. It would undermine American-Israeli-Saudi hegemony in the region, and that is unacceptable to the psychopaths who actually run our great country.
So, a year later, we have another chemical attack in Syria, and the same fake news people who blamed Assad last year, are again laying it on him. Therefore, I will be ordering more attacks on Syria, and will do so before facts have a chance to undermine the anti Assad hysteria.
Because despite the fact that I, your great President, decry the waste and harm caused by our endless wars, those wars will go on no matter who is President.
Please don't tell anyone that I'm not really in charge.
Monday, April 10, 2017
Loving War, Choosing Ignorance
Politically
speaking, we are living in a dystopian novel, except that we are
ignorant by choice - in the information age, you don't have to believe what Big Brother tells
you on the telescreen, or give credence to the printed and posted
agitprop from the Ministry of Truth, dubbed by Orwell as "Minitrue."
The whole narrative about the Syrian gas attacks is fertilizer, a repeat of four years ago. It's bovine scatological matter to aid the growth of martial mush in the minds of patriotic but misled Americans. Very soon the difference between uncritical consumers of B.S. and those who deign to think for themselves will be more apparent than ever. This latest round of misinformation about Syria, though not new, represents a watershed moment, an opportunity for free people to discover that our government really is THAT corrupt, controlled by an amoral, murderous cabal no matter who resides in the White House.
Or people can proactively decide that freedom isn't for them. These folks, made of the same stuff as you and I, lest we forget that it is God who makes us free, will continue to parrot rigid ideological slogans from wings left and right, all redounding to the health of the state. They will put aside their differences with each other (which, in the big picture, are akin to the difference 'tween Coke and Pepsi) to cheer for the troops. Sadly, their enthusiasm for supporting the troops will distract them from any critical analysis of the state's stated reasons for sending young Americans to be traumatized in wars having absolutely nothing to do with defending America, but that make our country a pariah as thousands of civilians are slaughtered, and rogue elements which are part of every invading army rape and pillage among those we are allegedly liberating.
When the troops come home with their PTSD, the jingoists who "thanked them for their service" will expect the VA to make them well again, BY GAWD. Never will these worshippers of all things military contemplate that it was a damn shame to send fine young men into Hell for the sake of oligarchs - oh, yes, and women too, must be equal equal equal, instead of women using their God bestowed feminine gifts, which make civilization civilized, let them do the same dumb things men do.
If you're a peace lover, be prepared to be called unpatriotic. Historically, you could even be imprisoned for opining against a particular war (cf. Lincoln, Wilson), or, if you're the wrong ethnic group, you might be sent to a concentration camp (cf. FDR, Hitler).
God help us to be peacemakers. Many of us were once deluded into believing the lies of the Warfare State. The propaganda apparatus is massive: all major television networks, the major newspapers, talk radio, and sadly, Christian media ("my people perish for lack of knowledge"). They are experts, using fear, manufactured consensus, and suppression of truth to make loyal citizens feel obligated to obey the state, rather than God (they're not the same, btw). We can't convince those who don't want to be convinced. When we encounter obtuse, impervious people we must pray for them - we've been the same way at some time in our lives. Respect where respect is due, and it is always due in some measure to those made in God's image.
Little children, keep yourselves from idols (1 John 5:21).
The whole narrative about the Syrian gas attacks is fertilizer, a repeat of four years ago. It's bovine scatological matter to aid the growth of martial mush in the minds of patriotic but misled Americans. Very soon the difference between uncritical consumers of B.S. and those who deign to think for themselves will be more apparent than ever. This latest round of misinformation about Syria, though not new, represents a watershed moment, an opportunity for free people to discover that our government really is THAT corrupt, controlled by an amoral, murderous cabal no matter who resides in the White House.
Or people can proactively decide that freedom isn't for them. These folks, made of the same stuff as you and I, lest we forget that it is God who makes us free, will continue to parrot rigid ideological slogans from wings left and right, all redounding to the health of the state. They will put aside their differences with each other (which, in the big picture, are akin to the difference 'tween Coke and Pepsi) to cheer for the troops. Sadly, their enthusiasm for supporting the troops will distract them from any critical analysis of the state's stated reasons for sending young Americans to be traumatized in wars having absolutely nothing to do with defending America, but that make our country a pariah as thousands of civilians are slaughtered, and rogue elements which are part of every invading army rape and pillage among those we are allegedly liberating.
When the troops come home with their PTSD, the jingoists who "thanked them for their service" will expect the VA to make them well again, BY GAWD. Never will these worshippers of all things military contemplate that it was a damn shame to send fine young men into Hell for the sake of oligarchs - oh, yes, and women too, must be equal equal equal, instead of women using their God bestowed feminine gifts, which make civilization civilized, let them do the same dumb things men do.
If you're a peace lover, be prepared to be called unpatriotic. Historically, you could even be imprisoned for opining against a particular war (cf. Lincoln, Wilson), or, if you're the wrong ethnic group, you might be sent to a concentration camp (cf. FDR, Hitler).
God help us to be peacemakers. Many of us were once deluded into believing the lies of the Warfare State. The propaganda apparatus is massive: all major television networks, the major newspapers, talk radio, and sadly, Christian media ("my people perish for lack of knowledge"). They are experts, using fear, manufactured consensus, and suppression of truth to make loyal citizens feel obligated to obey the state, rather than God (they're not the same, btw). We can't convince those who don't want to be convinced. When we encounter obtuse, impervious people we must pray for them - we've been the same way at some time in our lives. Respect where respect is due, and it is always due in some measure to those made in God's image.
Little children, keep yourselves from idols (1 John 5:21).
Friday, January 27, 2017
Nationalism, Crusades, and Anti-Semitism
Just learned that today is both Holocaust Remembrance Day and the
March for Life. The latter is on a different date each year, the former
is always on January 27, commemorating the liberation of the Auschwitz
death camp in 1945.
Many seem to think that the Nazis rose to power in some backward, unrefined place.
But Germany in the 1930's was the most educated country in the world, according to historian Paul Johnson. A culturally advanced, learned people allowed a monster to take control of the government, and two state supported churches - Catholic and Lutheran - helped the regime scapegoat Jews. Thank God for some exceptions (Dietrich Bonhoeffer, the Confessing Church), but the sad truth is that anti-Semitism has its historical roots in "Christian" churches.
If the church doesn't exist to stop tyranny like Hitler, what is the church here for? I am not reassured by the blind allegiance to Trump among Evangelicals - the spirit of nationalism is foul smelling and not easily reined in once loosed.
I've been studying the Crusades lately, and learning some things I didn't want to know.
To wit:
In 1095, Pope Urban II called Christians to a crusade to take Jerusalem from the Muslims. En route, the Crusaders learned to love killing, including entire Jewish villages. They started out hating the Muslims as "enemies of Christ" and along the way many of them decided that Jews were "enemies of Christ" as well. These demonic hordes, marching in the name of our Lord, were the source of blood libels and pogroms, and the evil and stupid idea of blaming all Jews for the crucifixion of Jesus.
When the Crusaders arrived at Jerusalem in 1099, they not only slaughtered Muslims within the city, but also Jews as well. The Muslims had banned Christians because they were regarded as polytheists for adhering to the doctrine of the Trinity.
Interesting to me is the fact that Jews were banned from Jerusalem until Muslims retook the city in 1187. Saladin invited them back to the city, and also allowed Christians from Greek and Eastern churches to remain, because they had not persecuted Muslims.
It seems that anti-Semitism has been more prevalent among "Christians" throughout history than it has been among Muslims, with notable exceptions.
Spiritually speaking, I observe the same filthy spirit in today's anti-Muslim crusade as inhabited the anti-Muslim crusades of the middle ages. I hope it doesn't redound to a new wave of anti-Semitism, although it apparently already has in parts of Europe. There were neo-Nazis among those who staged the Ukrainian coup that our government and NATO backed during Hillary Clinton's tenure at the State department. It also is not helpful for our government and evangelical Christians to blindly support Netanyahu's oppression of Palestinians, or the demonization of the entire Persian/ Iranian race.
This is a heart issue. Stereotyping of any one ethnic or religious group tends to snowball into hatred of other groups. Pope Urban II called forth a mob against Muslims. He didn't intend for the mob to go after Jews, but he was powerless to restrain the juggernaut he had launched.
Do we ever learn?
The answer is blowing in the wind?
Many seem to think that the Nazis rose to power in some backward, unrefined place.
But Germany in the 1930's was the most educated country in the world, according to historian Paul Johnson. A culturally advanced, learned people allowed a monster to take control of the government, and two state supported churches - Catholic and Lutheran - helped the regime scapegoat Jews. Thank God for some exceptions (Dietrich Bonhoeffer, the Confessing Church), but the sad truth is that anti-Semitism has its historical roots in "Christian" churches.
If the church doesn't exist to stop tyranny like Hitler, what is the church here for? I am not reassured by the blind allegiance to Trump among Evangelicals - the spirit of nationalism is foul smelling and not easily reined in once loosed.
I've been studying the Crusades lately, and learning some things I didn't want to know.
To wit:
In 1095, Pope Urban II called Christians to a crusade to take Jerusalem from the Muslims. En route, the Crusaders learned to love killing, including entire Jewish villages. They started out hating the Muslims as "enemies of Christ" and along the way many of them decided that Jews were "enemies of Christ" as well. These demonic hordes, marching in the name of our Lord, were the source of blood libels and pogroms, and the evil and stupid idea of blaming all Jews for the crucifixion of Jesus.
When the Crusaders arrived at Jerusalem in 1099, they not only slaughtered Muslims within the city, but also Jews as well. The Muslims had banned Christians because they were regarded as polytheists for adhering to the doctrine of the Trinity.
Interesting to me is the fact that Jews were banned from Jerusalem until Muslims retook the city in 1187. Saladin invited them back to the city, and also allowed Christians from Greek and Eastern churches to remain, because they had not persecuted Muslims.
It seems that anti-Semitism has been more prevalent among "Christians" throughout history than it has been among Muslims, with notable exceptions.
Spiritually speaking, I observe the same filthy spirit in today's anti-Muslim crusade as inhabited the anti-Muslim crusades of the middle ages. I hope it doesn't redound to a new wave of anti-Semitism, although it apparently already has in parts of Europe. There were neo-Nazis among those who staged the Ukrainian coup that our government and NATO backed during Hillary Clinton's tenure at the State department. It also is not helpful for our government and evangelical Christians to blindly support Netanyahu's oppression of Palestinians, or the demonization of the entire Persian/ Iranian race.
This is a heart issue. Stereotyping of any one ethnic or religious group tends to snowball into hatred of other groups. Pope Urban II called forth a mob against Muslims. He didn't intend for the mob to go after Jews, but he was powerless to restrain the juggernaut he had launched.
Do we ever learn?
The answer is blowing in the wind?
Sunday, September 18, 2016
Balaam, Branson, and Donald Trump
Beware of the false prophets... (Matthew 7:15a)
Mario Murillo is at it again, and God's people should be aware of the latest efforts by Mario to attach the Lord's name to his own sensational pronouncements.
Thus saith Mario via blog post on September 15, 2016.
I have a wait and see attitude about certain prophecies regarding Donald Trump, including some that see him as a modern day Cyrus (Persian king who allowed Jews to return to Jerusalem and rebuild Solomon's Temple) or Jehu (Israelite king who destroyed Jezebel and hundreds of Baal worshippers).
I know that many godly Christians believe Donald Trump will be used by God to stem the advance of evil in our country.
I have no quarrel with most of them, whether I agree or not.
But Mario Murillo has earned our mistrust, and when he speaks of our country being "rescued by Trump" he doesn't rate the benefit of the doubt.
Some trust in chariots, and some in horses: but we will remember the name of the LORD our God.(Psalm 20:7)
Remember, this is the same Mario Murillo who came on his high horse to Branson claiming to be the fulfillment of the (thoroughly debunked) Branson - Corrie ten Boom legend. On October 16th, 2015, Mario proclaimed that the so called "Branson Outbreak" that he spearheaded would be known worldwide within two weeks.
Did that happen?
For those who guide this people are leading them astray; And those who are guided by them are brought to confusion. (Isaiah 9:16)
Jesus is our Savior, not Donald Trump.
Furthermore, God doesn't need the United States to fulfill His plan.
God's people need to be full of God to fulfill their callings.
Warning about false prophets is not popular in Charismania today. One reason for this is that false prophets bring in a lot of money. Another is that bible teaching is not valued unless it is "prophetic" - this results in liberty for prophetic utterance, but no provision to judge such utterance.
Branson has more than its share of false prophets.
How do we identify a false prophet?
Well, start with prayerful reading of Deuteronomy 13 and 18.
In Branson, here's a sure sign of a false prophet: if the prophet has promoted the Corrie ten Boom legend, and hasn't repented, you have a false prophet. The reason is that Corrie ten Boom did not prophesy about any worldwide revival beginning in Branson, and the legend that she did is simply Charismatic-Evangelical folklore.
Balaam was a prophet. He was gifted to operate in the spirit realm, both with Yahweh, the Creator, and with evil spirits. There are many such "prophets" loose today, including here in the Branson area.
Beware.
Mario Murillo is at it again, and God's people should be aware of the latest efforts by Mario to attach the Lord's name to his own sensational pronouncements.
I believe God had me speak out because America was on the brink of an unalterable disaster. On November 8th, we will either be rescued by Trump or driven into the ground by Hillary.
Thus saith Mario via blog post on September 15, 2016.
I have a wait and see attitude about certain prophecies regarding Donald Trump, including some that see him as a modern day Cyrus (Persian king who allowed Jews to return to Jerusalem and rebuild Solomon's Temple) or Jehu (Israelite king who destroyed Jezebel and hundreds of Baal worshippers).
I know that many godly Christians believe Donald Trump will be used by God to stem the advance of evil in our country.
I have no quarrel with most of them, whether I agree or not.
But Mario Murillo has earned our mistrust, and when he speaks of our country being "rescued by Trump" he doesn't rate the benefit of the doubt.
Some trust in chariots, and some in horses: but we will remember the name of the LORD our God.(Psalm 20:7)
Remember, this is the same Mario Murillo who came on his high horse to Branson claiming to be the fulfillment of the (thoroughly debunked) Branson - Corrie ten Boom legend. On October 16th, 2015, Mario proclaimed that the so called "Branson Outbreak" that he spearheaded would be known worldwide within two weeks.
Did that happen?
For those who guide this people are leading them astray; And those who are guided by them are brought to confusion. (Isaiah 9:16)
Jesus is our Savior, not Donald Trump.
Furthermore, God doesn't need the United States to fulfill His plan.
God's people need to be full of God to fulfill their callings.
Warning about false prophets is not popular in Charismania today. One reason for this is that false prophets bring in a lot of money. Another is that bible teaching is not valued unless it is "prophetic" - this results in liberty for prophetic utterance, but no provision to judge such utterance.
Branson has more than its share of false prophets.
How do we identify a false prophet?
Well, start with prayerful reading of Deuteronomy 13 and 18.
In Branson, here's a sure sign of a false prophet: if the prophet has promoted the Corrie ten Boom legend, and hasn't repented, you have a false prophet. The reason is that Corrie ten Boom did not prophesy about any worldwide revival beginning in Branson, and the legend that she did is simply Charismatic-Evangelical folklore.
Balaam was a prophet. He was gifted to operate in the spirit realm, both with Yahweh, the Creator, and with evil spirits. There are many such "prophets" loose today, including here in the Branson area.
Beware.
Monday, August 1, 2016
A TAWDRY COUNTY TALE
Once upon a time in Tawdry County, there
was an Assessor named Mr. Strongman. He ignored state standards for
assessing property values. Seniors who owned condos sometimes had their
assessments tripled, while locals who were part of a political
organization called GOBAG ("Good Old Boys And Girls") got low
assessments.
Mr. Strongman was a talented politician, knowing whose bread to butter.
But the state government didn't like the way assessments were done in Tawdry County, and the state government withheld nearly $1 million in funds for the Assessor's office.
This didn't bother Mr. Strongman, because he had friends on the County Commission who belonged to GOBAG. They gave Mr. Strongman county funds to replace the money withheld by the state. And they supported his noncompliance with the state's assessment standards.
In the Assessor's office, there were some dedicated employees who worked hard for the county. But there were other employees who loafed, doing personal business on county time, or leaving work early. This group of employees was known as the "Thrift Store Gang," because one of their favorite things to do was to go shopping at thrift stores on county time.
Thrift Store Gang members had a friendly relationship with GOBAG.
One day, Mr. Strongman got an idea: "I'll run for the State Senate, so I can do more favors for my friends." But another politician from Tawdry County, Mr. Strawbus, ran against Mr. Strongman, and they split the vote in Tawdry County. A third guy from Blarney County beat them both in the Senate race.
And so Mr.Strongman was out of office.
In the meantime, Mr. Penwell was elected to be the new Assessor.
Mr. Penwell was a good and honest man - and therefore not a member of GOBAG. This was bad enough, but Mr. Penwell also had a work ethic that caused him to think that employees who were on the clock.... should work!
The Thrift Store Gang didn't like their new boss.
Also, GOBAG didn't like Mr. Penwell being the Assessor. So, some of the leaders of GOBAG decided to create trouble for Mr. Penwell by getting his employees who were members of the Thrift Store Gang to lie against him.
The leader of GOBAG, Mr. Hessman, approached a Thrift Store Gang member, Mr. Hairding with an idea:
"Hairding - is that Penwell treating you OK?"
"He's terrible - he gets on me for how I treat the public, and expects me to do the job the way he wants it done."
"You poor fellow - I feel your pain. I have a plan - if you will do exactly as I tell you, there's some money in it for you."
"I trust anything you GOBAG guys tell me - you've always steered me right. What do I do?"
"Follow these steps to the letter: 1.) talk to Penwell about all sorts of things - be friendly.... then just casually note his Bible on the desk, and start talking about that....2.) Penwell will let his guard down, and after you convince him that you are a fellow believer, he will now and then mention the Bible, or God, or some verse. 3.) at that point, you should perform as poorly as possible without getting fired - take advantage of Penwell's merciful heart, and push him to the limit 4.) at this point you have accomplished two things: First, Penwell thinks you are a believer, and so feels free to share matters of faith, Second, Penwell has to talk to you about your job performance, and because he's a good guy, he'll probably still show respect for you, and treat you as a friend. 5.) this is where the s*** hits the fan - you're responsible for the s***. You file a complaint of religious discrimination, alleging that Penwell forces you to listen to scripture, and punishes you, not because of your p**s poor job performance, but because you don't want to hear verses. 6) We GOBAG members control the County Commission, and we will make sure your complaint gets settled quickly. There will be no opportunities for Penwell to give his version of things, and we will agree to a settlement that'll put a nice chunk of change - how does $30k sound? - into your pocket... you'll need to resign, but you'll have a great severance package to enjoy life while you look for a different job!"
"Well it sounds great! What's in it for you?"
"We will leak news of your complaint just prior to the election. Penwell isn't running, but it will damage his allies, and when it's his turn to run, we'll get some more of your Thrift Store Gang who want some cash to help us out. We have a friend at the newspaper who will blame Penwell for the money we give to you."
"Awesome!"
And this is how things are done in Tawdry County to this very day.
Mr. Strongman was a talented politician, knowing whose bread to butter.
But the state government didn't like the way assessments were done in Tawdry County, and the state government withheld nearly $1 million in funds for the Assessor's office.
This didn't bother Mr. Strongman, because he had friends on the County Commission who belonged to GOBAG. They gave Mr. Strongman county funds to replace the money withheld by the state. And they supported his noncompliance with the state's assessment standards.
In the Assessor's office, there were some dedicated employees who worked hard for the county. But there were other employees who loafed, doing personal business on county time, or leaving work early. This group of employees was known as the "Thrift Store Gang," because one of their favorite things to do was to go shopping at thrift stores on county time.
Thrift Store Gang members had a friendly relationship with GOBAG.
One day, Mr. Strongman got an idea: "I'll run for the State Senate, so I can do more favors for my friends." But another politician from Tawdry County, Mr. Strawbus, ran against Mr. Strongman, and they split the vote in Tawdry County. A third guy from Blarney County beat them both in the Senate race.
And so Mr.Strongman was out of office.
In the meantime, Mr. Penwell was elected to be the new Assessor.
Mr. Penwell was a good and honest man - and therefore not a member of GOBAG. This was bad enough, but Mr. Penwell also had a work ethic that caused him to think that employees who were on the clock.... should work!
The Thrift Store Gang didn't like their new boss.
Also, GOBAG didn't like Mr. Penwell being the Assessor. So, some of the leaders of GOBAG decided to create trouble for Mr. Penwell by getting his employees who were members of the Thrift Store Gang to lie against him.
The leader of GOBAG, Mr. Hessman, approached a Thrift Store Gang member, Mr. Hairding with an idea:
"Hairding - is that Penwell treating you OK?"
"He's terrible - he gets on me for how I treat the public, and expects me to do the job the way he wants it done."
"You poor fellow - I feel your pain. I have a plan - if you will do exactly as I tell you, there's some money in it for you."
"I trust anything you GOBAG guys tell me - you've always steered me right. What do I do?"
"Follow these steps to the letter: 1.) talk to Penwell about all sorts of things - be friendly.... then just casually note his Bible on the desk, and start talking about that....2.) Penwell will let his guard down, and after you convince him that you are a fellow believer, he will now and then mention the Bible, or God, or some verse. 3.) at that point, you should perform as poorly as possible without getting fired - take advantage of Penwell's merciful heart, and push him to the limit 4.) at this point you have accomplished two things: First, Penwell thinks you are a believer, and so feels free to share matters of faith, Second, Penwell has to talk to you about your job performance, and because he's a good guy, he'll probably still show respect for you, and treat you as a friend. 5.) this is where the s*** hits the fan - you're responsible for the s***. You file a complaint of religious discrimination, alleging that Penwell forces you to listen to scripture, and punishes you, not because of your p**s poor job performance, but because you don't want to hear verses. 6) We GOBAG members control the County Commission, and we will make sure your complaint gets settled quickly. There will be no opportunities for Penwell to give his version of things, and we will agree to a settlement that'll put a nice chunk of change - how does $30k sound? - into your pocket... you'll need to resign, but you'll have a great severance package to enjoy life while you look for a different job!"
"Well it sounds great! What's in it for you?"
"We will leak news of your complaint just prior to the election. Penwell isn't running, but it will damage his allies, and when it's his turn to run, we'll get some more of your Thrift Store Gang who want some cash to help us out. We have a friend at the newspaper who will blame Penwell for the money we give to you."
"Awesome!"
And this is how things are done in Tawdry County to this very day.
Friday, March 11, 2016
Trump vs. the Race Card Industry
Donald Trump: racist?
I doubt it. I could be wrong, but not based on what people are showing me.
I think three or four denunciations of the KKK should suffice. After that, the reporters are just badgering the candidate, and obstructing the airing of other issues. The exception would be if there is credible evidence of Klan involvement, like all the evidence the Left ignored in the life of the late Senator Robert Byrd (D- WV). Senator Byrd skated on that, everywhere but talk radio.
But what about video showing black people being roughed up at his rallies?
That could be racist. It could also be misanthropic, or just thuggish.
In some circumstances, it could be justified - depending on what sort of menacing actions the person might have been doing.
If white people are doing the same thing, and getting kid glove treatment, while black people are singled out for the rough stuff - that would indicate racism.
Just the fact that protesters are removed from a rally is not wrong.
If I pay for a hall, it's so people can hear from me, not from my detractors - that is right in line with the first amendment. You don't have a constitutional right to disrupt a meeting in a venue for which someone else paid.
That said, I believe Trump is not a friend of the first amendment, and that some of his comments about the press - as dishonorable as many of them are - portend a return to the Alien and Sedition Acts under John Adams, and the imprisonment of those who protested wars under Lincoln and Wilson.
Also, it is certain that Trump is a nationalist, and that his followers have authoritarian tendencies (based on this article and my own interaction with many of them). And yes, Trump comports himself as a potential dictator, especially at his rallies.
Reminds me very much of when ancient Israel demanded a king.
Which did not end well for them.
Nationalism is not synonymous with racism, although many racists are also nationalists.
Ben Carson struck me as a nationalist, even before he announced his support for Trump today. An endorsement which likely shocked some of Ben's supporters, but not those who pay close attention. Ben is as ignorant about foreign affairs as he is brilliant in his field of neurosurgery.
I don't think Ben Carson is stupid, nor is it helpful when Trump's opponents call Trump supporters stupid.
Also, I don't think Carson is a racist, and if he was, I would assume his racism would not be directed at black people, eh?
I doubt it. I could be wrong, but not based on what people are showing me.
I think three or four denunciations of the KKK should suffice. After that, the reporters are just badgering the candidate, and obstructing the airing of other issues. The exception would be if there is credible evidence of Klan involvement, like all the evidence the Left ignored in the life of the late Senator Robert Byrd (D- WV). Senator Byrd skated on that, everywhere but talk radio.
But what about video showing black people being roughed up at his rallies?
That could be racist. It could also be misanthropic, or just thuggish.
In some circumstances, it could be justified - depending on what sort of menacing actions the person might have been doing.
If white people are doing the same thing, and getting kid glove treatment, while black people are singled out for the rough stuff - that would indicate racism.
Just the fact that protesters are removed from a rally is not wrong.
If I pay for a hall, it's so people can hear from me, not from my detractors - that is right in line with the first amendment. You don't have a constitutional right to disrupt a meeting in a venue for which someone else paid.
That said, I believe Trump is not a friend of the first amendment, and that some of his comments about the press - as dishonorable as many of them are - portend a return to the Alien and Sedition Acts under John Adams, and the imprisonment of those who protested wars under Lincoln and Wilson.
Also, it is certain that Trump is a nationalist, and that his followers have authoritarian tendencies (based on this article and my own interaction with many of them). And yes, Trump comports himself as a potential dictator, especially at his rallies.
Reminds me very much of when ancient Israel demanded a king.
Which did not end well for them.
Nationalism is not synonymous with racism, although many racists are also nationalists.
Ben Carson struck me as a nationalist, even before he announced his support for Trump today. An endorsement which likely shocked some of Ben's supporters, but not those who pay close attention. Ben is as ignorant about foreign affairs as he is brilliant in his field of neurosurgery.
I don't think Ben Carson is stupid, nor is it helpful when Trump's opponents call Trump supporters stupid.
Also, I don't think Carson is a racist, and if he was, I would assume his racism would not be directed at black people, eh?
Friday, March 4, 2016
Hillary's Email to Donald
Darling Donald,
We've been friends a long time, and your support has been greatly appreciated.
Congratulations on your pending nomination. You've made sport of the Vast Right Wing Conspiracy, and for that you have my undying gratitude. These vermin made a huge deal out of a few rapes and assaults that my husband may have committed. You of all men know what a tough road it can be for an alpha male with a severe testosterone imbalance.
It's gratifying to see you steamroll over these little people - but I wonder if you might be enjoying yourself a bit too much? Duping all those Christian leaders into supporting you was understandably fun for you - especially that ditz, Sarah Palin - but I frankly became alarmed that in order to fool those naive people, you denied your progressive views on abortion. You've amassed an impressive list of Christian luminaries: Falwell, Peter Wagner, Pastor Jeffress, Paula White, etc. who have bought the idea that you are God's man to protect them. Is it possible that your ego has been stroked a bit too much by these zealots? These are the same people who regard my husband as a moral reprobate, and they don't seem to mind that you have openly boasted about sleeping with other men's wives! Their cognitive dissonance is marvelous theater, but their ignorance of their own book could redound to your harm if you allow them to crown you as king - they may not be mindful of the story of King Saul, but you would do well to consider it.
Donald dear - please recall what the script calls for during the coming campaign between us.
Remember, our arrangement was for you to help me win this election by making me seem likable by comparison. Also, don't forget how friendly my administration will be to aggressive business men such as yourself - for one thing we can assure that federal judges will continue to uphold your very creative interpretation of eminent domain takings that benefit your enterprises.
My dear friend, I know that Latin is not your forte', but I was led to believe that you understand the meaning of 'quid pro quo.'
My affection for you is deep - the admiration that a witch feels for a warlock. Out of love, I remind you that "Hell hath no fury like a woman scorned!"
Know what I mean?
Love ya,
Hillary
P.S.
Should this FBI business take an unexpected turn for the worse, I'll consent to a change in our agreement, and will of course need you to issue a full pardon when you take office.
We've been friends a long time, and your support has been greatly appreciated.
Congratulations on your pending nomination. You've made sport of the Vast Right Wing Conspiracy, and for that you have my undying gratitude. These vermin made a huge deal out of a few rapes and assaults that my husband may have committed. You of all men know what a tough road it can be for an alpha male with a severe testosterone imbalance.
It's gratifying to see you steamroll over these little people - but I wonder if you might be enjoying yourself a bit too much? Duping all those Christian leaders into supporting you was understandably fun for you - especially that ditz, Sarah Palin - but I frankly became alarmed that in order to fool those naive people, you denied your progressive views on abortion. You've amassed an impressive list of Christian luminaries: Falwell, Peter Wagner, Pastor Jeffress, Paula White, etc. who have bought the idea that you are God's man to protect them. Is it possible that your ego has been stroked a bit too much by these zealots? These are the same people who regard my husband as a moral reprobate, and they don't seem to mind that you have openly boasted about sleeping with other men's wives! Their cognitive dissonance is marvelous theater, but their ignorance of their own book could redound to your harm if you allow them to crown you as king - they may not be mindful of the story of King Saul, but you would do well to consider it.
Donald dear - please recall what the script calls for during the coming campaign between us.
Remember, our arrangement was for you to help me win this election by making me seem likable by comparison. Also, don't forget how friendly my administration will be to aggressive business men such as yourself - for one thing we can assure that federal judges will continue to uphold your very creative interpretation of eminent domain takings that benefit your enterprises.
My dear friend, I know that Latin is not your forte', but I was led to believe that you understand the meaning of 'quid pro quo.'
My affection for you is deep - the admiration that a witch feels for a warlock. Out of love, I remind you that "Hell hath no fury like a woman scorned!"
Know what I mean?
Love ya,
Hillary
P.S.
Should this FBI business take an unexpected turn for the worse, I'll consent to a change in our agreement, and will of course need you to issue a full pardon when you take office.
Tuesday, November 10, 2015
Apocalypse Branson: the Corrie ten Boom Legend
Corrie ten Boom is rejoicing in heaven, so she's been unavailable to comment on the hype that has been taking place in her name in Branson for about two decades, and notably since Mario Murillo began holding a crusade here in late August.
The Corrie ten Boom / Branson legend is this: Corrie allegedly was on a plane and asked the name of the town being flown over. When she was told "Branson" Corrie is said to have prophesied that the glory of God was going to go out from there to the rest of the country. One version of the story - the one parroted by Mario Murillo - is that noted Christian author Gary Smalley was seated next to Corrie and heard her amazing prediction. As of this date, no comment from Mr. Smalley has been made public, but his son, Greg, was interviewed by author Gaye Lisby, and stated that he never heard it. Moreover, Corrie's personal companion for the last seven years of her life emphatically told Mrs. Lisby that Corrie never made the alleged comment.
Despite a complete dearth of corroboration, the legend of Corrie's word persists throughout the Branson area, especially among Charismatic Christians, of which I am one. Word-Faith teacher Billye Brim established her ministry in the area, and cited Corrie ten Boom's prophecy in so doing. Jim Bakker's ministry is in the area, too, and Jim has gone so far as to infer that those who disbelieve in the prophecy need to have demons cast out of them.
My comment is that the prophecy about the glory of God going from Branson to the rest of the country is a fabrication, and those who use it to undergird their meetings are engaged in Divination, not prophetic ministry.
Jim Bakker is the one in need of deliverance, and Billye Brim makes my baloney detector go off.
Last night, those who came to hear Mario Murillo found the church doors locked and a notice on the door (see below). Mario's blog says that the church board was behind the action, and that he, Mario, had planned to announce new locations for the meetings last night, apparently insinuating that some kind of retribution was behind the cancellation. Some of the "intercessors" are framing this as a demonic attack on their revival, and imprecating against unnamed foes.
One thing certain: somebody was very inconsiderate of all the people who made a trip for a scheduled meeting only to find locked doors.
Another: the rivalry among revivalists in our area doesn't comport with the unity of the Holy Spirit that will characterize genuine revival.
But then these meetings have been characterized by hype and mirrors. Mario can insinuate anything he likes, but his credibility is in doubt because he's continually invoked the bogus tale of Corrie's Branson prophecy throughout his crusades.
Godly intercessors are so very important in our time (cp. Ezekiel 22:30). Intercessors are similar to midwives, serving the Church as she travails to bring forth offspring. Although the imagery of intercession is often feminine, men are called to this ministry as well, there being no male and female in Christ. (Of course there are military metaphors regarding spiritual warfare as well)
Intercessors who are beguiled by unclean spirits engage in divination. They see a revival as "their baby" that they have birthed, rather than assisted in birthing. The uncleanness of this kind of "intercession" is manifested when anyone challenges any claim or aspect of their revival - "their baby."
Example: When I challenged the veracity of the Corrie ten Boom legend, one of these "intercessors" imprecated against me thus: "God will deal directly with the religious spirits who doubt God moving in signs and wonders. I place this in God's Courtroom of Heaven. Touch not my anointed and do my prophets no harm." (the whole Facebook conversation is pasted on pages 15 -17 of this document, which is a collection of comments and Facebook posts about the so called "Branson Breakout" and other examples of Charismania such as the Lakeland, Florida revival of 2008 .
This kind of "intercession" is unclean. For one thing, I didn't "doubt God moving in signs and wonders" - I challenged the veracity of the Corrie-Branson prophecy.
Ironically, the same "intercessor" who tried to put a curse on me is now vociferously claiming that a Jezebel spirit is opposing her revival.
Very ironic. Like the pot calling the kettle black.
The Corrie ten Boom / Branson legend is this: Corrie allegedly was on a plane and asked the name of the town being flown over. When she was told "Branson" Corrie is said to have prophesied that the glory of God was going to go out from there to the rest of the country. One version of the story - the one parroted by Mario Murillo - is that noted Christian author Gary Smalley was seated next to Corrie and heard her amazing prediction. As of this date, no comment from Mr. Smalley has been made public, but his son, Greg, was interviewed by author Gaye Lisby, and stated that he never heard it. Moreover, Corrie's personal companion for the last seven years of her life emphatically told Mrs. Lisby that Corrie never made the alleged comment.
Despite a complete dearth of corroboration, the legend of Corrie's word persists throughout the Branson area, especially among Charismatic Christians, of which I am one. Word-Faith teacher Billye Brim established her ministry in the area, and cited Corrie ten Boom's prophecy in so doing. Jim Bakker's ministry is in the area, too, and Jim has gone so far as to infer that those who disbelieve in the prophecy need to have demons cast out of them.
My comment is that the prophecy about the glory of God going from Branson to the rest of the country is a fabrication, and those who use it to undergird their meetings are engaged in Divination, not prophetic ministry.
Jim Bakker is the one in need of deliverance, and Billye Brim makes my baloney detector go off.
Last night, those who came to hear Mario Murillo found the church doors locked and a notice on the door (see below). Mario's blog says that the church board was behind the action, and that he, Mario, had planned to announce new locations for the meetings last night, apparently insinuating that some kind of retribution was behind the cancellation. Some of the "intercessors" are framing this as a demonic attack on their revival, and imprecating against unnamed foes.
One thing certain: somebody was very inconsiderate of all the people who made a trip for a scheduled meeting only to find locked doors.
Another: the rivalry among revivalists in our area doesn't comport with the unity of the Holy Spirit that will characterize genuine revival.
But then these meetings have been characterized by hype and mirrors. Mario can insinuate anything he likes, but his credibility is in doubt because he's continually invoked the bogus tale of Corrie's Branson prophecy throughout his crusades.
Godly intercessors are so very important in our time (cp. Ezekiel 22:30). Intercessors are similar to midwives, serving the Church as she travails to bring forth offspring. Although the imagery of intercession is often feminine, men are called to this ministry as well, there being no male and female in Christ. (Of course there are military metaphors regarding spiritual warfare as well)
Intercessors who are beguiled by unclean spirits engage in divination. They see a revival as "their baby" that they have birthed, rather than assisted in birthing. The uncleanness of this kind of "intercession" is manifested when anyone challenges any claim or aspect of their revival - "their baby."
Example: When I challenged the veracity of the Corrie ten Boom legend, one of these "intercessors" imprecated against me thus: "God will deal directly with the religious spirits who doubt God moving in signs and wonders. I place this in God's Courtroom of Heaven. Touch not my anointed and do my prophets no harm." (the whole Facebook conversation is pasted on pages 15 -17 of this document, which is a collection of comments and Facebook posts about the so called "Branson Breakout" and other examples of Charismania such as the Lakeland, Florida revival of 2008 .
This kind of "intercession" is unclean. For one thing, I didn't "doubt God moving in signs and wonders" - I challenged the veracity of the Corrie-Branson prophecy.
Ironically, the same "intercessor" who tried to put a curse on me is now vociferously claiming that a Jezebel spirit is opposing her revival.
Very ironic. Like the pot calling the kettle black.
A PRAYER FOR REVIVAL
God help us your people to turn away from falsehood. Help us repent of our unteachable spirit, our elitist sectarianism, our "I have no need of thee" attitude. Every member of Christ's body is important. Lord, help us to share the revelations You give without pride. We need grace to know when to yield to others, and wisdom to know when to be assertive. Let every self appointed Prophet, Apostle, and Intercessor be brought down some, but in Your mercy preserve them so they can be participate in Your genuine visitation to Your people. Others, Lord, embolden to step up and reveal the things You have put in their hearts over the decades as they have quietly waited like Anna and Simeon waited for the holy Child to appear in the Temple. In the name of Jesus. Amen.Thursday, July 17, 2014
Ron Houseman and Agenda 21
Save rainwater - go to jail! This sort of tyranny is some fruit of Agenda 21,
a 'non-binding' (it's proponents always remind us) but 'all pervasive'
(I remind you) scheme put forth by the U.N. in 1992, and advanced by
each U.S. President since George H.W. Bush.
The chief threat from Agenda 21 is to property rights, usually through innocuous sounding "sustainable development" schemes enacted by both sincere and sinister local officials. Example: The Enhanced Enterprise Zone (EEZ) plan approved here in Taney County (in 2012) by our local governments. At least half of Missouri is designated an EEZ now, and therefore at increased risk for eminent domain abuse. A good essay on the problems with EEZ is here.
My State Representative, Lyle Rowland (Missouri District 155), to his great credit, worked hard to pass anti-Agenda 21 legislation last year. The House failed by 2 votes to override the Governor's veto.
Sadly, Lyle Rowland, and too many other "conservatives," are supporting Amendment 1, the so called 'Right to Farm' amendment, which includes pernicious language that fits too well with Agenda 21. The Constitution Party has very well summarized the problems with 'Right to Farm.'
One organization that is an enthusiastic supporter of Agenda 21 (Supporters of Agenda 21 avoid saying 'Agenda 21', opting for terms like 'sustainable development' or invoking causes like 'clean water' or 'climate change') is the National Association of Counties, or NACo. Taney County Presiding Commissioner Ron Houseman serves on NACo's Executive Committee , and frequently attends NACo meetings around the country, at the taxpayers expense.
All three of our county commissioners attended a meeting on the subject of Agenda 21 (Brandon Williams attended as commissioner-elect, having won the GOP primary) in 2012 at First Baptist Church in Hollister. They all indicated their staunch opposition to Agenda 21, but when yours truly pointed out that Agenda 21 is often advanced using the term 'sustainable development', Mr. Houseman was prompted to disclose that he had been a participant in a 'sustainable development' meeting, at the White House, chaired by Al Gore. Ron assured us all that he opposed whatever was being promoted at Al Gore's meeting, but I've noticed that his high position in NACo is still something of which he is proud.
The chief threat from Agenda 21 is to property rights, usually through innocuous sounding "sustainable development" schemes enacted by both sincere and sinister local officials. Example: The Enhanced Enterprise Zone (EEZ) plan approved here in Taney County (in 2012) by our local governments. At least half of Missouri is designated an EEZ now, and therefore at increased risk for eminent domain abuse. A good essay on the problems with EEZ is here.
My State Representative, Lyle Rowland (Missouri District 155), to his great credit, worked hard to pass anti-Agenda 21 legislation last year. The House failed by 2 votes to override the Governor's veto.
Sadly, Lyle Rowland, and too many other "conservatives," are supporting Amendment 1, the so called 'Right to Farm' amendment, which includes pernicious language that fits too well with Agenda 21. The Constitution Party has very well summarized the problems with 'Right to Farm.'
One organization that is an enthusiastic supporter of Agenda 21 (Supporters of Agenda 21 avoid saying 'Agenda 21', opting for terms like 'sustainable development' or invoking causes like 'clean water' or 'climate change') is the National Association of Counties, or NACo. Taney County Presiding Commissioner Ron Houseman serves on NACo's Executive Committee , and frequently attends NACo meetings around the country, at the taxpayers expense.
All three of our county commissioners attended a meeting on the subject of Agenda 21 (Brandon Williams attended as commissioner-elect, having won the GOP primary) in 2012 at First Baptist Church in Hollister. They all indicated their staunch opposition to Agenda 21, but when yours truly pointed out that Agenda 21 is often advanced using the term 'sustainable development', Mr. Houseman was prompted to disclose that he had been a participant in a 'sustainable development' meeting, at the White House, chaired by Al Gore. Ron assured us all that he opposed whatever was being promoted at Al Gore's meeting, but I've noticed that his high position in NACo is still something of which he is proud.
Friday, March 21, 2014
Thursday, March 6, 2014
America in the Bible
Dear Uncle Sam,
I found your bio in the Bible:
"A worthless person, a wicked man, Is the one who walks with a perverse mouth, Who winks with his eyes, who signals with his feet, Who points with his fingers; Who with perversity in his heart continually devises evil, Who spreads strife. Therefore his calamity will come suddenly; Instantly he will be broken and there will be no healing. There are six things which the Lord hates, Yes, seven which are an abomination to Him: Haughty eyes, a lying tongue, And hands that shed innocent blood, A heart that devises wicked plans, Feet that run rapidly to evil, A false witness who utters lies, And one who spreads strife among brothers." (Proverbs 6:12-19)
You have lied and deceived your way into every war Americans have entered since the War of 1812 - every single one. Your self flattering propaganda has served your purpose in each war. You aren't "spreading freedom" or defending us against enemies - you are spreading fear, and making our country a pariah among the nations, and are yourself an enemy of the Constitution you claim to support.
Add abortion, and you have the blood of untold millions on your hands.
So, I don't want to hold hands with you!
We, the people of America, have been bountifully blessed - IN SPITE OF YOU, NOT BECAUSE OF YOU.
I mean no offense, but when the choice is allegiance to you or to Jesus, I choose Jesus (cf. Exodus 20.3)
Lord, have mercy on your people in the midst of your righteous judgment.
I found your bio in the Bible:
"A worthless person, a wicked man, Is the one who walks with a perverse mouth, Who winks with his eyes, who signals with his feet, Who points with his fingers; Who with perversity in his heart continually devises evil, Who spreads strife. Therefore his calamity will come suddenly; Instantly he will be broken and there will be no healing. There are six things which the Lord hates, Yes, seven which are an abomination to Him: Haughty eyes, a lying tongue, And hands that shed innocent blood, A heart that devises wicked plans, Feet that run rapidly to evil, A false witness who utters lies, And one who spreads strife among brothers." (Proverbs 6:12-19)
You have lied and deceived your way into every war Americans have entered since the War of 1812 - every single one. Your self flattering propaganda has served your purpose in each war. You aren't "spreading freedom" or defending us against enemies - you are spreading fear, and making our country a pariah among the nations, and are yourself an enemy of the Constitution you claim to support.
Add abortion, and you have the blood of untold millions on your hands.
So, I don't want to hold hands with you!
We, the people of America, have been bountifully blessed - IN SPITE OF YOU, NOT BECAUSE OF YOU.
I mean no offense, but when the choice is allegiance to you or to Jesus, I choose Jesus (cf. Exodus 20.3)
Lord, have mercy on your people in the midst of your righteous judgment.
Tuesday, May 14, 2013
Healing: Reality or Illusion?
My post on Bill Johnson's Facebook page 111811
Seriously...I don't know what you believe, but I'm for all the gifts, the fulness of God in the body of Christ, and restoration, etc. etc. And I finally had a chance to sample Bro Bill Johnson's ministry firsthand last Friday...He led 800 p...eople into a wonderful time of spontaneous worship to the King. I'm not kidding. However....the Bentley thing was bad for the church, bad for the name of the Lord, and bad for Todd Bentley. I wrote to Bethel about it, gently btw, and got not even a courtesy reply (I asked for one). We have a serious problem with idolatry. Truly gifted ministers are surrounded by sycophants, and if anyone expresses a concern, the peanut gallery is there to shout them down. No accountability in place, because only affirmations are of God - all criticism is of the evil one. Just read the threads here for examples of what I'm speaking...God help us, and He will! Time for the Body of Christ to be discerned. Liberty for prophetic utterances - yes! But also liberty to judge them! Oops, I said "judge" - that's profane to many of the brethren - I shall be branded a Pharisee! My desire is that these gifted prophets (they aren't apostles, no matter what Peter Wagner says) would venture out now and then and touch base with some regular folks who love Jesus and discern some problems that will not be solved by gold dust or even documented miracles. There are people who saw things amiss with Todd Bentley that were completely missed by those who commissioned him, and their followers. They are not all "fearful" like they've been characterized, they are a needed part of Christ's body and denouncing them as Pharisees and persecutors is hasty, at best.
*******
BJ interview where he states that we should believe reports on the basis of our inner witness
http://www.godtube.com/watch/?v=1JE1FNNU
"We were just in Spokane, Washington for the Healing Rooms Conference with Cal Pierce. In one meeting, we had 54 people testify to metal dissolving in their bodies; screws, plates and rods. One woman was missing certain tendons in the left leg and she had a metal brace holding it all together. She didn't have anything for doctors to surgically repair in the leg, they had told her she would need the brace for the rest of her life. The brace helped by locking her leg so she could walk. She took the brace off in the meeting and ran! Another woman had been in intense pain for 15 years because of a back injury. She had a fused spine and was completely healed! The curvature in her back was restored and she was able to squat and get back up with no assistance! A first in a long time!"http://www.bjm.org/testimony/31/testimonies-from-spokane-conference.html 110611
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WmxKWj8VZ5Y&noredirect=1 Randy Clark ministering at Bethel, calling forth those with metal in their bodies. Testimonies, but no corroboration!
Seriously...I don't know what you believe, but I'm for all the gifts, the fulness of God in the body of Christ, and restoration, etc. etc. And I finally had a chance to sample Bro Bill Johnson's ministry firsthand last Friday...He led 800 p...eople into a wonderful time of spontaneous worship to the King. I'm not kidding. However....the Bentley thing was bad for the church, bad for the name of the Lord, and bad for Todd Bentley. I wrote to Bethel about it, gently btw, and got not even a courtesy reply (I asked for one). We have a serious problem with idolatry. Truly gifted ministers are surrounded by sycophants, and if anyone expresses a concern, the peanut gallery is there to shout them down. No accountability in place, because only affirmations are of God - all criticism is of the evil one. Just read the threads here for examples of what I'm speaking...God help us, and He will! Time for the Body of Christ to be discerned. Liberty for prophetic utterances - yes! But also liberty to judge them! Oops, I said "judge" - that's profane to many of the brethren - I shall be branded a Pharisee! My desire is that these gifted prophets (they aren't apostles, no matter what Peter Wagner says) would venture out now and then and touch base with some regular folks who love Jesus and discern some problems that will not be solved by gold dust or even documented miracles. There are people who saw things amiss with Todd Bentley that were completely missed by those who commissioned him, and their followers. They are not all "fearful" like they've been characterized, they are a needed part of Christ's body and denouncing them as Pharisees and persecutors is hasty, at best.
*******
BJ interview where he states that we should believe reports on the basis of our inner witness
http://www.godtube.com/watch/?v=1JE1FNNU
"We were just in Spokane, Washington for the Healing Rooms Conference with Cal Pierce. In one meeting, we had 54 people testify to metal dissolving in their bodies; screws, plates and rods. One woman was missing certain tendons in the left leg and she had a metal brace holding it all together. She didn't have anything for doctors to surgically repair in the leg, they had told her she would need the brace for the rest of her life. The brace helped by locking her leg so she could walk. She took the brace off in the meeting and ran! Another woman had been in intense pain for 15 years because of a back injury. She had a fused spine and was completely healed! The curvature in her back was restored and she was able to squat and get back up with no assistance! A first in a long time!"http://www.bjm.org/testimony/31/testimonies-from-spokane-conference.html 110611
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WmxKWj8VZ5Y&noredirect=1 Randy Clark ministering at Bethel, calling forth those with metal in their bodies. Testimonies, but no corroboration!
Tuesday, March 26, 2013
Homosexual Marriage: It Doesn't Exist
Government should be out of the marriage
business. Marriage is a sacrament ordained by God; government
involvement violates Jefferson's separation of church and state
doctrine.
The church has greatly erred by accepting secular government authority in the form of 501(c) 3 incorporation. The same mindset causes the church to appeal to government to hold the line against spiritual deception overtaking our culture. That's the church's job. "Render unto Caesar the things that are Caesar's.." Caesar's "things" don't include marriage, church licensing, or educating our children. Until we start giving to God the things that are His, we should forget admonishing our culture to be righteous.
The church has greatly erred by accepting secular government authority in the form of 501(c) 3 incorporation. The same mindset causes the church to appeal to government to hold the line against spiritual deception overtaking our culture. That's the church's job. "Render unto Caesar the things that are Caesar's.." Caesar's "things" don't include marriage, church licensing, or educating our children. Until we start giving to God the things that are His, we should forget admonishing our culture to be righteous.
Sunday, February 10, 2013
Idolatry in the Church: Community Chapel
Scriptures re idolatry and Community Chapel:
Idolatry Scriptures
The Wikipedia page:
Community Chapel Wiki
Here are some articles from former member of Community Chapel. Some of mine are under my own name (Steve Maxwell) and some under the pseudonym "Frank."
Writings from ex members of Community Chapel
Good message preached by Earl Thurner on Dec. 20, 1981:
"The Father"
Idolatry Scriptures
The Wikipedia page:
Community Chapel Wiki
Here are some articles from former member of Community Chapel. Some of mine are under my own name (Steve Maxwell) and some under the pseudonym "Frank."
Writings from ex members of Community Chapel
Good message preached by Earl Thurner on Dec. 20, 1981:
"The Father"
Friday, November 30, 2012
Marxist Left, Fascist Right: Twins!
Last week, a self described "liberal" accused me of blind allegiance to Ron Paul.
Today, a "Conservative Animal" (blog name) called me a "paulie" (sic).
For the record, I do agree with Ron Paul, but my opinions were largely in line with his before I began to pay much attention to him, about six years ago. Plus, whatever is wrong with my opinions, a lot of thoughts go into them, and so ad hominem arguments are resented, chiefly because they indicate no respect for my time.
The "Left - Right" paradigm in which we frame political discussions seems more absurd to me everyday.
Today, a "Conservative Animal" (blog name) called me a "paulie" (sic).
For the record, I do agree with Ron Paul, but my opinions were largely in line with his before I began to pay much attention to him, about six years ago. Plus, whatever is wrong with my opinions, a lot of thoughts go into them, and so ad hominem arguments are resented, chiefly because they indicate no respect for my time.
The "Left - Right" paradigm in which we frame political discussions seems more absurd to me everyday.
.
"Left" and "Right" have much more in common than their shared disdain for the simple honesty of Ron Paul.
* They both have the exact same plan to deal with our national debt problem - blame the other party.
* Democrats spoke against Bush's military adventurism; Republicans decry Obama's. But in the end, both keep funding our unsustainable worldwide military presence.
* Neither has any respect for the Constitution: Conservative Animal is offended by the confidence with which Ron Paul supporters cite the Constitution (it's our fault that hardly anyone else reads it?), and thinks the Federal courts are the sole arbiters of its meaning. Animal thus affirms the hubris of Chief Justice Hughes: "...we are under a Constitution, but the Constitution is what the judges say it is..." My "liberal" critic thinks the Constitution is subservient to popular opinion, and inadequate for modern life, and since his view is shared by the statists who dominate the federal judiciary, he, like Conservative Animal, is happy for our country to be governed by de facto tribunals of judges.
* Both quickly play the race card when they have no answers: the liberal thinks objections to Obama's massive expansion of the federal government is rooted in racism; Conservative Animal accused me of being anti-Semitic because I think Israel deliberately attacked the USS Liberty in 1967. Since I didn't mention the Liberty attack in my post on Mr. Animal's blog, I'm guessing somebody searched out my comments about it elsewhere online. I'm opting out of participation on that blog, as the proprieters are given to overbearing and verbose tirades full of ad hominem arguments, red herring, and ipse dixit assertions posing as axioms. See for yourself here.
* Both are ignorant of, or OK with, the President having authority to imprison American citizens indefinitely without charging them.
The Left side of the box is still the box. Ditto the right side.
Ron Paul's ideas are not really profound. He just cuts through the bullshit; and millions of people are ready for someone to do that.
Unfortunately, many more millions are still thinking in the box.
Pray and think. Please.
"Left" and "Right" have much more in common than their shared disdain for the simple honesty of Ron Paul.
* They both have the exact same plan to deal with our national debt problem - blame the other party.
* Democrats spoke against Bush's military adventurism; Republicans decry Obama's. But in the end, both keep funding our unsustainable worldwide military presence.
* Neither has any respect for the Constitution: Conservative Animal is offended by the confidence with which Ron Paul supporters cite the Constitution (it's our fault that hardly anyone else reads it?), and thinks the Federal courts are the sole arbiters of its meaning. Animal thus affirms the hubris of Chief Justice Hughes: "...we are under a Constitution, but the Constitution is what the judges say it is..." My "liberal" critic thinks the Constitution is subservient to popular opinion, and inadequate for modern life, and since his view is shared by the statists who dominate the federal judiciary, he, like Conservative Animal, is happy for our country to be governed by de facto tribunals of judges.
* Both quickly play the race card when they have no answers: the liberal thinks objections to Obama's massive expansion of the federal government is rooted in racism; Conservative Animal accused me of being anti-Semitic because I think Israel deliberately attacked the USS Liberty in 1967. Since I didn't mention the Liberty attack in my post on Mr. Animal's blog, I'm guessing somebody searched out my comments about it elsewhere online. I'm opting out of participation on that blog, as the proprieters are given to overbearing and verbose tirades full of ad hominem arguments, red herring, and ipse dixit assertions posing as axioms. See for yourself here.
* Both are ignorant of, or OK with, the President having authority to imprison American citizens indefinitely without charging them.
The Left side of the box is still the box. Ditto the right side.
Ron Paul's ideas are not really profound. He just cuts through the bullshit; and millions of people are ready for someone to do that.
Unfortunately, many more millions are still thinking in the box.
Pray and think. Please.
Monday, October 22, 2012
George McGovern: RIP
I
much prefer real liberals like McGovern over modern corporate statists
such as Reid, Romney, Obama,
Boehner, and the Clintons.
George McGovern was a Christian gentleman. His chief fault was a sincerely held, but erroneous, theology that conflated the gospel mandate to care for the poor with the foolish utopian schemes of the welfare state.
He was a real liberal in the same sense that Robert Taft was a real conservative; and both had more in common with each other than either has with the current leaders of our two ruling parties.
On account of foreign policy.
McGovern was speaking against intervention in Vietnam as the Kennedy administration sent thousands of combat troops there and backed a CIA led coup in which South Vietnamese President Diem was killed. Taft opposed involvement in Korea, and NATO - part of the reason the muscleheads running the GOP sabotaged their 1952 convention so that Taft was pushed out in favor of Ike.
Our ongoing foreign interventions - about which neither candidate in tonight's debate will have the slightest qualm - are not consistent with either "liberal" or "conservative" policy.
They fit nicely with fascism, though.
George McGovern was a Christian gentleman. His chief fault was a sincerely held, but erroneous, theology that conflated the gospel mandate to care for the poor with the foolish utopian schemes of the welfare state.
He was a real liberal in the same sense that Robert Taft was a real conservative; and both had more in common with each other than either has with the current leaders of our two ruling parties.
On account of foreign policy.
McGovern was speaking against intervention in Vietnam as the Kennedy administration sent thousands of combat troops there and backed a CIA led coup in which South Vietnamese President Diem was killed. Taft opposed involvement in Korea, and NATO - part of the reason the muscleheads running the GOP sabotaged their 1952 convention so that Taft was pushed out in favor of Ike.
Our ongoing foreign interventions - about which neither candidate in tonight's debate will have the slightest qualm - are not consistent with either "liberal" or "conservative" policy.
They fit nicely with fascism, though.
Wednesday, October 10, 2012
Taney County Republicans are Chicago Democrats
Attend a gathering of Republicans in Taney County, and it's a safe bet that you'll hear derisive comments about Democrats.
Full disclosure: when those comments have been about Barack Obama, I've often agreed with them. There is an unbroken chain of corruption in the Chicago Democratic machine going back at least to the Capone gang in the 1920's. This machine brought the deceased to the polls for JFK in 1960, and lately helped launch Obama's career.
However, there's an elephant in the room - pun intended - when local Republicans focus on the foibles and malfeasance of the Democratic party.
Actually, a couple of elephants. And maybe a snake or two.
There's no corruption in the Taney County Democratic Party.
Since there's no organized Taney County Democratic Party. There isn't one Democrat on the November ballot for any county office.
The few Democrats who have held office in this county have been honorable people, and have served competently and honestly.
There is a history of corruption in the Taney County Republican Party. And the biggest scandal that I remember, was brought to light by...
.... A Democrat!
Back in the mid 1990's, the Treasurer of Taney County resigned. The Governor fills such vacancies by appointment, and our governor at the time was a Democrat. Governor Carnahan appointed John Willett, a young man in his early twenties - and a Democrat.
In those days I had a couple of lively conversations with John at the county fair. We disagreed vigorously, but John was respectful at all times - never insulted my person. When I'd see him in town, he'd encourage me to drop by his office sometime for a visit. I very much regret never having done so.
Later, I learned that John was working high up in one of the twin towers in New York on September 11, 2001. We lost a fine citizen from Taney County that day.
During John's tenure as Treasurer, he came upon a number of checks payable to then County Clerk Ron Houseman and then County Collector Dwain Basham.
Seems these two officials were collecting "commissions" from tax revenues that they were collecting on behalf of municipalities around the county. Checks amounting to hundreds of thousands of dollars. One check to Ron Houseman was for over $80,000 - yes that's right an eighty thousand dollar bonus. His regular salary was a little over $42,000 at the time.
Charges were dropped on technicalities. Either the law was insufficient, or these handsomely rewarded public servants were well connected.
But they did lose their bids for reelection in 1998. And since then, those elected to the offices of Clerk and Collector have not enriched themselves with lucrative commissions.
Things have changed in Taney County since then - or have they?
Despite being involved in this monumental scandal, Ron Houseman was hired by the county in 2009 to help obtain Obama stimulus funds for the county. The decision to hire him was made by the County Commission on a 2 to 1 vote. The two who voted for the hire were Western Commissioner Jim Strafuss and Eastern Commissioner Danny Strahan.
Oh, and I'm running against Danny Strahan
IMPORTANT DISCLOSURE: The author of this blog is running against the aforementioned Danny Strahan for the position of Eastern Taney County Commissioner.
This is negative campaigning, which brings another IMPORTANT DISCLOSURE: I'm not opposed to negative campaigning IF it is factual and relevant. I very much oppose negative campaigning that is misleading ("my opponent publicly masticates in restaurants") , irrelevant ("my opponent wears a toupee"), or merciless ("my opponent was a Communist when he was 20, but grew out of it").
This is an issue: Danny Strahan voted to hire Ron Houseman, despite his record of appropriating exhorbitant amounts of public funds for himself.
I would have voted NO on this hire.
What's the difference between the Democrat machine in Chicago and the GOP machine in Taney County?
Scale.
Chicago is much bigger.
Certain prominent Republicans in Taney County have sought to intimidate other Republicans for daring to support an Independent candidate. Back in August, Taney County GOP Chairman Buddy Roberts went to the County Clerk's office to review my nominating petitions (I'm an Independent candidate for the County Commission). At the next GOP luncheon, Republicans whose signatures were found were chastised.
However, there is a double standard in place: Mr. Roberts subsequently contacted the County Clerk on behalf of Jim Strafuss - outgoing Western Commissioner who failed in a bid for the State Senate - in order to find out how Jim could run as a write-in candidate against REPUBLICAN Jeff Justus, who won the August primary to be the GOP nominee for State Representative, 156th District.
Apparently, Mr. Roberts was recently pressured by other members of the Central Committee - to their credit - to be consistent and affirm that if a good Republican can't support an Independent running against a Republican, then a good Republican shouldn't support a write-in running against a Republican, either.
While it is good that Republican officials in Taney County seek to apply a uniform standard, it'd really be nice if they took a glance at the Constitution - which they've taken an oath to support - and learned that there's no restriction in this country on supporting the candidate of your choice, even if you belong to a political party.
Full disclosure: when those comments have been about Barack Obama, I've often agreed with them. There is an unbroken chain of corruption in the Chicago Democratic machine going back at least to the Capone gang in the 1920's. This machine brought the deceased to the polls for JFK in 1960, and lately helped launch Obama's career.
However, there's an elephant in the room - pun intended - when local Republicans focus on the foibles and malfeasance of the Democratic party.
Actually, a couple of elephants. And maybe a snake or two.
First Elephant
There's no corruption in the Taney County Democratic Party.
Since there's no organized Taney County Democratic Party. There isn't one Democrat on the November ballot for any county office.
The few Democrats who have held office in this county have been honorable people, and have served competently and honestly.
Second Elephant
There is a history of corruption in the Taney County Republican Party. And the biggest scandal that I remember, was brought to light by...
.... A Democrat!
Back in the mid 1990's, the Treasurer of Taney County resigned. The Governor fills such vacancies by appointment, and our governor at the time was a Democrat. Governor Carnahan appointed John Willett, a young man in his early twenties - and a Democrat.
In those days I had a couple of lively conversations with John at the county fair. We disagreed vigorously, but John was respectful at all times - never insulted my person. When I'd see him in town, he'd encourage me to drop by his office sometime for a visit. I very much regret never having done so.
Later, I learned that John was working high up in one of the twin towers in New York on September 11, 2001. We lost a fine citizen from Taney County that day.
During John's tenure as Treasurer, he came upon a number of checks payable to then County Clerk Ron Houseman and then County Collector Dwain Basham.
Seems these two officials were collecting "commissions" from tax revenues that they were collecting on behalf of municipalities around the county. Checks amounting to hundreds of thousands of dollars. One check to Ron Houseman was for over $80,000 - yes that's right an eighty thousand dollar bonus. His regular salary was a little over $42,000 at the time.
Charges were dropped on technicalities. Either the law was insufficient, or these handsomely rewarded public servants were well connected.
But they did lose their bids for reelection in 1998. And since then, those elected to the offices of Clerk and Collector have not enriched themselves with lucrative commissions.
Things have changed in Taney County since then - or have they?
Despite being involved in this monumental scandal, Ron Houseman was hired by the county in 2009 to help obtain Obama stimulus funds for the county. The decision to hire him was made by the County Commission on a 2 to 1 vote. The two who voted for the hire were Western Commissioner Jim Strafuss and Eastern Commissioner Danny Strahan.
Oh, and I'm running against Danny Strahan
IMPORTANT DISCLOSURE: The author of this blog is running against the aforementioned Danny Strahan for the position of Eastern Taney County Commissioner.
This is negative campaigning, which brings another IMPORTANT DISCLOSURE: I'm not opposed to negative campaigning IF it is factual and relevant. I very much oppose negative campaigning that is misleading ("my opponent publicly masticates in restaurants") , irrelevant ("my opponent wears a toupee"), or merciless ("my opponent was a Communist when he was 20, but grew out of it").
This is an issue: Danny Strahan voted to hire Ron Houseman, despite his record of appropriating exhorbitant amounts of public funds for himself.
I would have voted NO on this hire.
What's the difference between the Democrat machine in Chicago and the GOP machine in Taney County?
Scale.
Chicago is much bigger.
Certain prominent Republicans in Taney County have sought to intimidate other Republicans for daring to support an Independent candidate. Back in August, Taney County GOP Chairman Buddy Roberts went to the County Clerk's office to review my nominating petitions (I'm an Independent candidate for the County Commission). At the next GOP luncheon, Republicans whose signatures were found were chastised.
However, there is a double standard in place: Mr. Roberts subsequently contacted the County Clerk on behalf of Jim Strafuss - outgoing Western Commissioner who failed in a bid for the State Senate - in order to find out how Jim could run as a write-in candidate against REPUBLICAN Jeff Justus, who won the August primary to be the GOP nominee for State Representative, 156th District.
Apparently, Mr. Roberts was recently pressured by other members of the Central Committee - to their credit - to be consistent and affirm that if a good Republican can't support an Independent running against a Republican, then a good Republican shouldn't support a write-in running against a Republican, either.
While it is good that Republican officials in Taney County seek to apply a uniform standard, it'd really be nice if they took a glance at the Constitution - which they've taken an oath to support - and learned that there's no restriction in this country on supporting the candidate of your choice, even if you belong to a political party.
Saturday, September 29, 2012
Sunday, September 2, 2012
Taney County Needs More Government!
The blight designation that goes with the proposed Enhanced Enterprise Zone (EEZ) concerns me, because the first step in government's use of eminent domain to take private property is a blight designation.
Of course there's never been abuse of eminent domain by the government. Right? So, clearly, I'm just crazy to even bring it up.
Some would suggest that government sometimes takes property through eminent domain simply to establish some enterprise that will produce more tax revenue. But that would be really greedy, and we know there's no such thing as government greed! What a crazy idea!
Besides, I've been assured by those who know that there's no intention to use the EEZ as a cover for more eminent domain abuses (if such abuses ever occurred - and sane people know they haven't). In fact, I'm told that the EEZ board will provide the needed checks and balances to prevent such abuses. Yep: an unelected board will safeguard our liberties, just as surely as Obama's appointed "czars" do at the national level!
My problem is that I've read the Constitution. The Declaration of Independence too. Both are rife with mistrust of government (read 'em and tell me it ain't so). Worse, I've looked into the Federalist Papers. (Shhh, don't tell anyone, but I even peruse the Anti-Federalist Papers sometimes). Our nation's founders were loathe in the extreme to grant new powers to government, and then just trust that said powers wouldn't be abused. Clearly, those founders were certifiable. Just ask Nancy Pelosi, or one of the Republicans who's touting the EEZ as an economic panacea for our county!
It's fitting that many politicans give lip service to Adams, Jefferson and Washington without giving heed to anything they said, since modern politicians have so much more character than those guys did.
These days, imbibing the principles of liberty contained in our founding documents will get you labeled "crazy." I'm so far gone that I wouldn't trust an unelected board to protect my liberties, even if it's members were Albert Schweitzer, Mother Theresa, and my own mother. I know - that's crazy. A warped state of mind brought on by too much Thomas Jefferson and not enough television.
Of course there's never been abuse of eminent domain by the government. Right? So, clearly, I'm just crazy to even bring it up.
Some would suggest that government sometimes takes property through eminent domain simply to establish some enterprise that will produce more tax revenue. But that would be really greedy, and we know there's no such thing as government greed! What a crazy idea!
Besides, I've been assured by those who know that there's no intention to use the EEZ as a cover for more eminent domain abuses (if such abuses ever occurred - and sane people know they haven't). In fact, I'm told that the EEZ board will provide the needed checks and balances to prevent such abuses. Yep: an unelected board will safeguard our liberties, just as surely as Obama's appointed "czars" do at the national level!
My problem is that I've read the Constitution. The Declaration of Independence too. Both are rife with mistrust of government (read 'em and tell me it ain't so). Worse, I've looked into the Federalist Papers. (Shhh, don't tell anyone, but I even peruse the Anti-Federalist Papers sometimes). Our nation's founders were loathe in the extreme to grant new powers to government, and then just trust that said powers wouldn't be abused. Clearly, those founders were certifiable. Just ask Nancy Pelosi, or one of the Republicans who's touting the EEZ as an economic panacea for our county!
It's fitting that many politicans give lip service to Adams, Jefferson and Washington without giving heed to anything they said, since modern politicians have so much more character than those guys did.
These days, imbibing the principles of liberty contained in our founding documents will get you labeled "crazy." I'm so far gone that I wouldn't trust an unelected board to protect my liberties, even if it's members were Albert Schweitzer, Mother Theresa, and my own mother. I know - that's crazy. A warped state of mind brought on by too much Thomas Jefferson and not enough television.
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