Life is short, folks. None of us are getting any younger – and none of us knows when the Lord will see fit to calls us back home. My usual dose of minuscule patience is getting even more scarce these days.
As such, I find it necessary to cut through all the bull squeeze and innuendo that many ascribe to their discussions/writings/opinions, and more regarding Eddie Long.
Prayerfully, this will be my last article on Eddie Long and his homosexuality – there’s really nothing new to add here but this is my public way of answering the hundreds of emails I’ve received seeking my opinion. So, you want to know my final thoughts on the matter? OK – here we go…
Unless you’ve been in a cave for a while, you should know that Eddie “I’m going to fight these allegations like David fought Goliath” Long settled the lawsuit brought on by for men who accused Long of sexual coercion (among other things).
Yup – he settled for millions of dollars. Some highly placed sources also say the Eddie was asked to issue a private apology, but he upped the money offer instead and the settlement was agreed upon.
The lawsuit is sealed – and these guys can’t sue Eddie for the same thing again (although some are rumbling about other allegations from other men who could come forward at a later time). I know what the legal implications for a settlement are, and I’ve previously written about my thoughts on what a settlement “looks like” to the layman.
So to me, Eddie Long is a homosexual. Yup – it’s that simple, and that settles it.
He’s obviously gay, otherwise he would’ve vigorously defended himself (and his manhood, frankly) against such heinous accusations.
He would have fought to protect the reputation of his wife and children. He would’ve fought to protect those who still attribute some form of clerical respect and admiration to him (for whatever ungodly reason).
But he didn’t…instead he negotiated with his male “accusers” (I’ll just call them former lovers since I’m in such a frank and honest mood) for 6 months and agreed to seal the deal and never speak of it again. That’s the act of a gay coward who isn’t even man enough to publicly admit what he is.
He tucked his tail between his skin-tight biker shorts and sulked back to his “pulpit” where his evil arrogance won’t even bring him to mention anything about his settlement. In fact, this pimp is so brazen that he announces that he’s expanding his cult to Birmingham and Denver (RUN NOW, CITIZENS OF BIRMINGHAM AND DENVER!!!) – AND he’s even warped enough to seek $500-$1,000 from the few sheep he still has to help in the expansion!
I’ve written at length about all of Eddie’s evil – from his nuclear-level pimp money game to his mind-numb cult followers to his confirmed homosexuality (I won’t even waste time typing “alleged” anymore), so you can click here and re-read my solicitations for Eddie’s public repentance, calls for prayer for him and his followers and more.
Oh – and Creflo Dollar’s “sermon of support” comparing Eddie’s homosexual relationships with young men to a “wreck” did nothing but exacerbate tensions outside of Eddie’s cult:
Yup – the money-grubbing scripture twisting minstrel who thinks you can drill a hole to the center of the earth and hear people in hell actually defends his gay “brother”. I know – I fought my gag reflex while watching the video also.
So, no more scriptures from me concerning Eddie – or admonitions to stay away from his cult (why bother). The Lords will be done concerning him and his followers.
I will, however, surrender this thread to you for your comments, observations, etc. Maybe something you say will resonate more than anything I’ve said in the past. So – have at it, folks!
UPDATE 6/9/11: Well, Creflo had the video of his sermon of support for Eddie Long taken down (you can still Google it and find it out there somewhere). Interestingly, Creflo’s not even man enough to support his gay “brother in the Lord” once his taped message of support goes viral 🙄
I'm Speaking Truth... 
I had to laugh when I read this because I love when people are just frank, blunt and honest. Plus you are just too funny.
I 100% agree with you. I always knew in my spirit that something was not right with Eddie Long. When I came back home from graduate school, I turned on the tv and saw the religious programming and one just happened to be his church. I remember thinking, 1. why is this minister/pastor wearing a muscle shirt in church in the pulpit? (that in and of it self was a turn off) and 2. whatever the message was(I dont recall because this was 6 or 7 yrs ago) about turned me off…I didnt like how he broke things down and sexualized everything…I found it disgusting.
In any case, I knew he wasnt right and he has shown he is not right. He is very hypocrital…and its very sickening.
I pray for these young men and I hope that they can move on with thier lives.
p.s. I hope all the members of his church can now see him clearly and leave but they wont!
It is VERY disturbing that there are Christians (?) who support this wolf in sheep’s clothing and FUND his sinful lifestyle! Just where are these MILLION dollar payoffs coming from anyway??
How grieved the Lord Jesus Christ must be. Where is the fear of the Lord?
“Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven. Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? and in thy name have cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works? And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity.”
Matthew 7:21-23
“And shall not God avenge his own elect, which cry day and night unto him, though he bear long with them? I tell you that he will avenge them speedily. Nevertheless when the Son of man cometh, shall he find faith on the earth?”
Luke 18:7,8
He’s a wolf in wolf’s clothing, actually. He’s not hard to figure out. Wolf in Wolf’s clothing trying to speak like a sheep, but wolf words kept coming out.
lol @Anna nice one….
Wow! Wow! I’m speechless at the thought of starting churches elsewhere. You talk about no fear of God! Well said Cathy!
This is what happens when a “leader” is arrogant, has no objective accoutability and a begins to believe his own hype. Your site others like it and many crying out in the wilderness who are ignored because they aren’t televagelist rockstars forwarned us. Jesus also warned us of this day. All I can do is agree with you and like you pray for Gods will to be done…REPENT FOR THE KINGDOM OF GOD IS TRULY AT HAND!!
I agree with you 100%, what puzzles me is the amount of people still following him??? What type of leader/person are you that you will not openly repent for what he has done. I could almost see them still being there and supporting him if he had repented and asked for forgiveness but, he has not, So, now you are blatantly worshipping the man and not God. How sad is that???
More Predators in the Pulpit! What else is new? The “Institutional so-called church” is becoming an unsafe place to spend one’s time. So much deception and false teaching/preaching, etc. Has anyone given any thought to the fact that we are not supposed to GO to a building called church but that we, as Christians, ARE the actual CHURCH. Do your homework and study up on first century new testament forms of worship. It’s all in the Bible or you can read Frank Viola and George Barna’s book called “Pagan Christianity ?” if you would like to have your eyes opened. I for one am ready to revert back to the way that Paul and the other first century Christians fellowshiped, worshiped and broke bread together. “The Harlot Church System – Come Out of Her My People” by Charles E. Newbold, Jr. is another very informative book about the subject. It’s time for a revolution in Christian life again folks.
Dear Luanne,
There is no sin in Christians having a place to gather together in worship. If you study enoguh of early church history. Not just selective citations from the few books you’ve read. You will find that as the church grew, even churches established by folks such as Timothy DID have buildings. Over time in-house small meetings were not practical for the masses that would like to worship together. There is no sin in that.
Paul taught the gospel in synagogues and schools, buildings, set apart for learning theology.
We’re talking about sexual immorality and other things the Bible strickly forbids, but you’ve come to harp about a building. Such distracts from the true issues that are clearly noted as sinful. And there are plenty of “house churches” that are riddled with sinful activity. So your argument about a building has no merit in scripture, history or practical example.
While there are many churches that are wayward, scripture tells us there would be a GREAT falling away. Jesus said MANY that cried His name would be false. But several of us here are members of local churches that uphold a better standard. Even breaking bread together.
There’s also nothing wrong with you worshiping with others in your own house. So if you’d like to do that and establish Elders, Decons and other offices for a church from your house then gather with others at your house.
Now please attempt to keep in line with the topic of the thread.
Here’s a portion of something I was reading and explaining to my kids tonight. I think it’s applicable here. And I thought of it when I saw brother IST say “(why bother)”, to trying to warn people who will scoff at warnings about Eddie Long. Even after ALL that has been exposed.
No, there is no point to trying with all that has been exposed already.
Here are some disturbing observartions:
1) Eddie Long is embracing a PRIVATE THEOLOGY, that he only exposes to certain young men, according to his accusers. And I believe their accusations. Using scripture in a twisted manner to support his abominable behavior with young men. Much like Earl Paulk was twisting scriptures to endorse sleeping with women other than his wife, that he’d mention only in private to those women. This all proves Eddie’s true theology is more twisted than even the false doctrine he speaks in public.
2) Creflo A. Dollar is horrendously sick. Although people who used to follow Eddie may have erred to seek another prosperity pimp and went to Creflo. For Creflo to DEFEND a man who indirectly denies exposed sin. (Eddie said the man spoke of in the news is “not me” but never said “I did not do it”. Giving the impression of innocence while never directly saying it.) Claiming people should rejoin with a man who never actually admitted anything and therefore has shown repentance for nothing. Is a smack in the face of 1 Corinthians 5. Immorality that has been exposed is to be rebuked and one who refuses to fully renounce their exposed evil is to be fully rebuked, totally disassociated. So we have Creflo promoting an evil heresy that is even beyond his false prosperity doctrine. Once upon a time, even some prosperity pimps would turn their backs on sexual immorality that was unrepented.
So it’s an obvious mess. Anyone that can’t see it has not been graced by God to understand when evil is staring them in their face.
Both me and IST were once caught up in the glamor of Eddie Long and we could not see the truth till the Lord willed that we see it. (Total me and IST have almost 20 years as members with Eddie (including Eddie’s underlings) and his heresies as active members of the cult.) And thankfully He saw fit to allow our eyes to see the heresy more clearly. God called us out of it and He’ll call out others who should be freed from the strong delusion.
IC – brother, you said a mouthful! We could not see the truth UNTIL THE LORD WILLED that we could. I was an ardent defender of Eddie and his “sons”, and unless God Himself intervened personally I would’ve dismissed the “haters” who were trying to get me to leave their cults.
I am living proof that God CAN deliver those who have a soft heart to hear His call.
Oh, and I forgot to co-sign on your comment about “private theology” as well. You’re right, Eddie, Clarence McClendon, Earl Paulk (oddly, they all ran in the same circles, btw) all (apparently) used that “God wants you to help me release some tension” line to coerce folks into playing their sick games.
If men and women truly believe that God wants them to satisfy the sexual desires of ministers, then we certainly need to keep praying for them.
We should not be surprised at the kind of people who follow after an exposed wolf . Eddie Long is an entertainer. Most people go to church to be entertained. “Whatcha ya got Eddie? Entertain us a little more this morning, will ya, huh? will ya?” I bet there were even more visitors who came after the big reveal, visitors who wanted to watch the train wreck. It is so ugly, but you want to look and hear all the details. So what that he’s a catomite rock star pastor? At least he’s their catomite rock star pastor. No ones perfect right? Oh yeah…JESUS IS PERFECT
Actually, the numbers have been on a very major decline in recent weeks. God has been helping people see they need to leave.
It’s true Eddie is nothing more than an entertainer though.
Here’s a really good article called “Why People Stick by Scandal-Plagued Pastors” AND THEY USE EDDIE LONG AND HIS FOLLOWERS AS AN EXAMPLE! http://www.cnn.com/2011/US/05/27/church.scandal/index.html
A good read there. An example of what happens when not considering I Timothy 3 and following an entertainer instead of the truth. Not realizing God is the one who delivers, while immoral men should be rebuked.
Interesting quote from the article:
Some very wayward theology in that statement. You’d think Judas was in Heaven by that take, and sadly, Kirkpatrick may misguidedly think Judas is there. We’d be good to stick with any heathen as a pastor with that view.
Eddie is a homosexual. Eddie can be delivered from his homosexuality, but he loves his darkness…………were it not so, he would have repented long ago.
BTW, HI IC AND IST!! I’m still alive………at least that’s the rumor.
Way to keep it short and to the point 😉 .
Welcome back GaryV – we know you’ve had more important issues to tend to (hope all is well). Way to sum it up, btw.
On Wednesday I decided to watch the live streaming service on my iPhone. After seeing videos of someone that drove to the parking lot of NBMBC the previous two Sundays I just wanted to see how they filmed the service and how many were at the service. I am in the central time zone so I could view about the first hour before our service began. The first thing I noticed was that they did not film the balcony. Also the section where people were sitting had empty seats. I also noticed that the thrones on the stage were gone. I did not see his wife who usually attended the services. What horrified me was that he was preaching a message (I do not remember the details now) telling people to live in a way that it is apparent he did not live. My husband screamed ‘hypocrite’. I was glad to see that even though there were maybe 100-200 there that is way less than having the church packed out. People are finally wising up to the madness of the prosperity extortioners. I keep thinking about how the BIble encourages us to judge ourselves so that we would not be judged. Because it appears that many of them refuse to judge themselves the media, especially bloggers, are doing it for them. 2 Peter 2:1-3 comes to mind.
But there were false prophets also among the people, even as there shall be false teachers among you, who privily shall bring in damnable heresies, even denying the Lord that bought them, and bring upon themselves swift destruction. And many shall follow their pernicious ways; by reason of whom the way of truth shall be evil spoken of.
And through covetousness shall they with feigned words make merchandise of you: whose judgment now of a long time lingereth not, and their damnation slumbereth not.
@Stacey, I used to watch the live streaming church services from maybe 2002-2004. At the time you said you went to the church I stopped watching for the same reasons. For the life of me I cannot understand anyone dressing so seductive like that, especially a married man AND preacher of the gospel who is supposed to live a life above reproach. I felt it was so impure. It was frankly nasty and distracting. If I had been married to him I would have been yelling to the top of my lungs assuming that he was tipping out on me. Sad to say it appears that he was in the most dreadful fashion.
Amen
The truth of the matter is that Creflo in his wanton arrogance, stepped off the cliff with this sermon. This is the sermon that WILL destroy him!
The Lord said, Be not deceived, God is not mocked—whatever you reap, that will you also sow. I PRAY that Creflos “ministry” will fall as well.
THESE fools actually believed that they were above God Himself!!! It shows in their actions. I hope the fates do a Bernie Madoff on them both!
So, apparently Eddie is resorting to phony shows of support to grease the coins from his (remaining) follower’s pockets.
Any of us former mind-numb Club New Birth drones know that that women would’ve been tackled and hog-tied for getting that close to “the bishop” UNLESS he authorized a premeditated “show of support”.
Did you hear him mumble “I couldn’t pay for that…” under his breath? Pay for what – the free publicity or the confirmed 1st class seat in hell for showing us who you really are?
Ive been preparing a sermon from 1 Cor 5, one of the most untaught passages of new testament scripture. Just think about it Paul says not to even associated with such a person as Eddie, but these blinded church goers(don’t want to insult the sheep) love having him as their pastor. Furthermore 1 cor 5 states not even to “eat with such a person”. How many of these blinded congregants would stampede over each other to sit at the same dining table. The plantation designed by Roman Catholicism and adopted by the prosperity pimps goes on. Tell them your version of what the word says but never, never teach them how to study for themselves. The word tell them to leave but they wait on some woo,woo spooky feeling. We have our share of Eddie wana bees here in Orlando. Can you imagine three pastors, all guilty of adultery putting on a Men’s Conference. Sadly it only gets worse. My answer…… Read
THANK YOU CRYALOUD. When I quote that scripture, “church folks” look at ME as if I’m speaking “another gospel!” I really think most “church folks” today don’t realize that scripture is even IN THE BIBLE! I would love to hear that sermon because I’ve yet to hear it preached from any pulpit in all my 15 yrs of walking with the Lord! The HOLY SPIRIT Himself revealed it to me during my personal study time in the Word!
May God continue to open the eyes of the sheep and expose every secret sin that’s being done in the dark of all these false shepherds and hirelings!
Godlysoldier—-I keep that scripture (1 Corinthians 5:9-13) in my right hand always!! And I never hesitate to give un-repentant, biblically challenged, immature church folk a steady diet of it 24/7.
Matter Fact I’m thinking about printing up a “Scripture Tract” and going to local congregations here in San Antonio and passing them out. 🙂
Welcome back IST
Pimps will always stay together. Don’t look for the “Real” pimps and “Pretty Tony’s of the world to speak out against Eddie. The entire thing is a shame. But God has a way of making something good out of something bad.
@Pamela you are so right. Just too much for church as a pastor.
But I NEVER went to his church. I said I watched it a few times when I came home from graduate school (in 2004) and was disgusted. I should have given some background. I went to graduate school in Upstate NY and I attended a wonderful church there but then I graduated and came home to DE. I had no church home in DE (the church I grew up going to split and I didnt like that, also there was a church I used to visit at home but the preacher was too worldly for me…I understand the whole reach people where they are at philosophy but I am not sure I agree and also I do not believe you have to speak like a street person or ganster or whatever to reach those types of people..Gods word stands on its own…but I will get back to the story, lol) so I would sometimes check out the tv preachers while I looked for a new church. That is how I saw Eddie Long. I NEVER ATTENDED his church and would never want to…
Sorry I was not more clear.
Here is link to the foolish video from Creflo supporting his ‘friend’. This is all you need to know about Creflo.
“Eddie is still going to go to heaven.” “He is cleansed.” No, Dr. Dollar, he didn’t repent!
“Who do we think we are”?
We are God’s people and we deserve better that a sinful Bishop and a co-signing false teacher like Creflo Dollar!
Warren I removed the link because most of the comments were a bit vulgar, but the point is we made.
I live in a suburb of Atlanta and attend a church maybe 15 minutes away from Eddie Long’s church. I am white but my church is very multil-cultural with many different ethnic groups that attend. We have quite a few members from the Carribbean and Africa. If you ask any of the black members of our church, who have lived in this area for a long time, about Eddie Long most of them will tell you that he’s gay. It’s no secret within the black community. They will tell you he’s been messing around with other men for years.
You’re absolutely right Jay, and that’s the sad part about it. Many of us who sat under Long (no pun intended) for many years heard those rumors but we ignored them. Many just attribute “the anointing” as the great elixir…no matter how unholy you live “the anointing” covers all. We shouldn’t listen to unsubstantiated rumors, but enough smoke has swirled around Eddie for years (again – ALWAYS talk about Eddie and other men, NEVER any talk about Eddie being unfaithful with women – not that that’s any better) to warrant an eventual investigation of a fire.
to attend that church you must posses the forehead of whore ( Jer 3:3 Therefore the showers have been withholden, and there hath been no latter rain; and thou hadst a whore’s forehead, thou refusedst to be ashamed.) The congregation that remains are acting like whores who’ve been pimped so long they are no longer embarrassed. And Boy! are they about to pimped,…..bring me the money.
A whorehead?? Hey, that might be a whole new designation for the pimped!!
I was waiting for somebody to notice that, GaryV 🙂
No one gets to the lowest common denominator faster than us my friend!!
Fellow Brothers/Sisters in Christ,
I have read every blog on every topic from this website for the past few years. I am a current member of HLCC, & am not here to defend anyone or any ideas that have been spoken about concerning HLCC/NBMBC and it’s leaders/leadership practices. First, let me say that I love God with all my heart, & I believe that it is my responsibility as a Christian to strengthen my relationship with Him, to know His word & apply it to my life, to minister to others, & to encourage them to develop & strengthen their relationship with God as well. I recognize that Pastor Landers is not perfect; he is a man that, I believe, has been given the assignment by God to teach His word to His people. With all of that being said, and with all that takes place at HLCC that is considered questionable (i.e. First Fruit Offering, etc.), I continue to attend because of my relationship with God. I truly believe that even with all of Pastor Landers imperfections, it doesn’t make him any less of a man of God. I am fully aware of all details discussed about him in this blog (i.e. his late property tax bill, etc.), & concluded that he is not exempt from being afflicted with tests and trials just like anyone else that has been called by God to be a disciple for Him, like you and me. God used Moses (murderer), & David (adulterer) to do His work, & they had imperfections.. It is written in Romans 3:23 “For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God,…”. All means all, y’all; Me, you, Pastor Landers, Bishop Long, all. This I know as far as my attendance at HLCC: I give the money that God has blessed me with from working out of my relationship with Him & faith in Him, & I’ve been blessed for that. I don’t agree with some things that Pastor Landers does/says & some of it has been taken out of context (you have to be careful how you say things, especially when you’re a leader), but I believe the best thing that we could do as believers is to pray for our church leaders, trust God, & know His word (in context). Bishop Long being homosexual or not, Pastor Landers misusing church funds to support how he lives or not, Pastor Alvarado’s accusations true or not, these men need our prayers & God’s guidance to accomplish what He has sent them to do. Every time I sin (though I try hard not to), I ask for forgiveness, repent, & try harder not to sin. God forgives me, & that same grace that He gives me when I do something wrong I believe we should give to our leaders when they do wrong (when I say “do wrong”, I mean something that is known to be factual, not heresy or opinions). Did Bishop Long do it? I know what it looks like, & I know the outcome of the situation, but in fact, I wasn’t there, so I can’t say. What I do know is he needs prayer. Does Pastor Landers misuse church money to buy cars & such? Again, it looks that way, but in fact, I can’t say. What I do know is he needs prayer as well. It is written in James 5:16 “Confess your trespasses to one another, & pray for one another, that you may be healed. The effective, fervent prayer of a righteous man avails much.”. For all I know, Bishop Long/Pastor Landers could have done these things, confessed them, & have been healed, but I believe that our job is to pray, & as it is written in Hebrews 4:13 “And there is no creature hidden from His sight, but all things are naked and open to the eyes of Him to whom we must give an account.”. Let’s equip ourselves to teach others what being a member of the body of Christ is all about: fellowshipping with other believers (in and out of the church setting), growing, learning, & praying together, for one another, and for our world. I love you all & am praying for you :-).
“GodIsLove,” with all due respect, there is simply no more room for the covert defending of these pimps, vipers, wolves and snakes that continue to smear the name of God and leave collateral damage within the body of Christ. To date, Eddie Long has NOT made ANY apology nor has shown any degree of remorse to anyone. Have you? Keep in mind that people can sin against other people, not just God.
With all of the reading you claimed you have done, were you not in some way troubled at the YEARS’ WORTH of confirmed apostate messages, material excess at the expense of the adherents, the blatant arrogance and disrespect of said audience, and the flippant attitudes by these pimps (yes, PIMPS) toward those that follow BIBLICAL MANDATE to “cry aloud and spare not?!”
I find it amazing that, with all of the reading you have claimed to have done since the Eddie Long debacle first came about, that you took absolutely NO NOTE of the many scripture references among the thusands of posts used to construct biblically sound arguments to call repentance to these wolves. No mention of 2 Timothy 3 that gives CLEAR GUIDELINES as to what constitutes a true leader of God’s people and what to do if you encounter those disguised as such. No mention of the prohibited behavior regarding laciviousness, couvetesness, greed, strife, pride, haughtiness, sexually immorailty, and otherwise engaging in questionable behavior.
Lastly, John 7:24 tells the saints to judge righteously, and that we are to judge (not condemn) those professing to be of God via 1 Corinthians 5:12 in hopes the guilty will confess their sins and ask for forgiveness that would then allow for restoration. Because of the church’s (re: ekklesia’s) failure to judge righteously, it has led to all manner of debauchery and embarassment to God and His people.
Your response is very lukewarm, and God is already separating the sheep from the goats. He has already made it known what is to happen to the lukewarm of this generation. Revelation 3:16.
Godislove,
My sister N’Catina provided an excellent summation of my thoughts (thank you, sister), but you addressed me in your comment as well – and thought I’ve written extensively about these matters in the past, your comment requires my attention once more. I empathize with the sincerity I sense from your comment, but I still fundamentally disagree with much of what you wrote:
On the contrary, Landers’ false doctrine and blatant misrepresentation of the Word makes him less than a man of God. I haven’t written about Landers’ in a long time because (a) he reads this blog and enjoys seeing his name in print so he can defend himself from the pulpit and gather more allegiance from the sheeple that still follow him, and (b) because I’ve exhaustively detailed his wrongdoings. I served Landers and saw a side of him that the public didn’t see. I know what he says about you and your fellow congregants when he’s “off stage”, I know how he watches every dollar that comes in and makes sure that he gets his “off the top”, I’ve seen families turned away (and have been instructed to turn them away) when they approach in need, I know far more personal details about Landers’ that I won’t share publicly because my point has been clearly made: Andre Landers is a pimp…he’s not an accidental pimp or a pimp with good intentions…he’s a calculating and purposeful pimp. Period.
Yes He did – and even far more imperfect people as well, yet Moses didn’t continue murdering after God called him to deal w/Pharaoh. In fact, Moses was punished by God for his disobedience (Numbers 20:1-13) – as slight as it may seem by some. Every reprobate (I’m not calling you a reprobate, just echoing that most worldly folk know enough about David’s sins to gain their attention) wants to claim David as their example because they think God allowed him to do whatever he wanted and yet still esteemed him above others. David was severely punished for his sin (2 Samuel 12:1-23) after he confessed his transgressions (first to the prophet, then to his servant). Plus God swore a Davidic covenant through which Jesus’ birth was made manifest – Landers, Long, and other reprobates have no such Davidic covenant that absolves them of their wanton and willful sins.
Some things taken out of context = a little leaven (Galatians 5:8-10). I don’t have to sit weekly in attendance to pray for a reprobate in his presence, specifically because we are to not associate ourselves with those who preach falsely (Romans 16:17, 2 Thesselonians 3:6, Proverbs 14:7, 2 Timothy 3:1-5 and more.
Being a homosexual or not? Misusing church funds or not? Are you saying we should pray for these reprobates and still listen to their lies week after week in comfort because we’ve done our cosmic duty and released any burdens associated with them? I heartily disagree! Eddie Long is a homosexual. That’s not hearsay – that’s an agreed upon tenet of his court settlement because he and his lovers (they are no longer accusers) agreed to every word listed in the settlement. That means they all agreed that sexual conduct took place…between men…which is the scientific definition of homosexuality. Would you take religious instruction from an UNREPENTANT homosexual? I won’t, and the bible clearly instructs us on what sound leadership looks like (as noted by N’Catina above and me on numerous occasions). Also, I know first hand of Landers’ willful theft (among other things), so that’s not hearsay either – and Alvarado’s settlement for sexual misconduct with young boys is also a matter of court records. NONE of these men have repented publicly for their actions or stepped down…they continue to march their lemmings in tow as though they’ve done nothing wrong – yet I get death threats for daring to speak out against vile false teachers.
I won’t go on…you get my point. We should pray that God’s will be done concerning any and every situation, but we are not compelled by God to sit in filth with these evil doers as they continue to make a mockery of Him and His Word because we look complicit to the young in the faith when we do so.
This is to give clarity to Godislove:
Forgiveness doesn’t exclude disqualification. Its amazing how we make a spiritual disconnect and lose all rational when it comes to dealing with pimps. But its the same way in the world.
1. A sheriff who is caught and convicted of selling drugs can return to society and be a fruitful citizens…..but he can never be a sheriff.
2. An individual can rob a bank….do time… and return to society, but they will never get a job in a bank.
3. a nurse convicted of stealing pharmaceuticals can serve their time but that license is gone
My point is simple, the examples can go on. We have a simple challenge for you Godislove. Simply take the time to write down the qualifications for pastor/elder/bishop laid out in 1 Timothy 3:1-7. You should have between 12-15 categories (based on your personal grouping. Then simply ask yourself “does my pastor…pass or fail”. If he fails he should sit down or you should leave, those are the options.
Godislove, if you really want to be true…..remember Jesus saves and the saved OBEY. Are you willing to obey or will you remain DUI (Devotion Under the Influence) with a disqualified pastor. Take the test and let the truth speak.
PS the grouping is already done at this link.
http://cryloud.com/2008/01/21/pick-a-pastor-package.aspx
ooooooh I feel sick…. in order to read stuff like this anymore I have to just get some pepto and put a straw in it. We just have to pray IST.. the body of Christ has now become the biggest laughing stock and that is so sad because we hold the keys to the freedom that everyone out there so desperately is seeking. Instead people are seeking peace and freedom through drugs and meditation and other means. Our so called heavy hitters are falling and fast and they have no humility at all. They are either caught up in free Masonry, Homosexuality, Pornography, Gambling, Drugs,Luciferianism, and all manner of evils. They are taking a whole bunch of dumb sheeple with them who refuse to read the word for themselves or discern, these poor people are so blind and confused and don’t realize the wool has been literally pulled over their eyes.
~anointed
Anointed, you are absolutely correct, and these four non-sensical, unnecessary diatribe posts by GodIsLove proves it once again.
I won’t dare waste time reading these.
Brothers/Sisters In Christ,
I Thank you for your comments :). I’d like to respond to each comment in the order received:
N’Catina, I do apologize for not being clear enough in my comment. I am not defending anyone. I am aware that Bishop Long has not publicly apologized/mentioned anything about the settlement since it took place. The points that I wanted to convey from my comment were:
1) John 7:24 (NKJV): “Do not judge according to appearance, but judge with righteous judgement.”
– An out-of-court settlement is not an emission of guilt. It appears that way, but the facts are: a) He settled, & b) We do not (factually) know “why?”. We can speculate the “why” (I.e. guilt, shame, fear, etc.), but there is no evidence (no public testimonies, sworn statements, etc.) that spell out a verdict of guilty.
2) James 5:16 (NKJV) “Confess your trespasses to one another, & pray for one another, that you may be healed. The effective, fervent prayer of a righteous man avails much.”
– I believe that you can be a Pastor/Bishop and not drive the newest Mercedes or stay in a Million dollar house, especially when there are congregants who have to walk b/c of lack of transportation, or have to return to a shelter after Wed./Sun. Service because they have no home. I do not agree with the lavish lifestyles, but I have no evidence to say that their lifestyles are supported contrary to God’s word (I.e. Theft from the church, etc.) What I see with my eyes (the cars, clothes) could very well be God’s favor, or abuse of leadership. This is why I said it is our mandate to pray for them. With all of us praying God’s will be done, anything that is not of God (lavish lifestyles from abuse of leadership, intentional misinterpreting of scripture for personal gain, etc.) will come to light.
– I am aware of 1 Timothy 3:1-7, & am also aware that many leaders do not exemplify all of the criteria all the time (Evidence Exhibit A: Verse #7 in relation to the released photo of Bishop Eddie Long in the all-black, skin-tight outfit. If I were looking for a church home & saw that picture somewhere, definite red flag b/c the Word says “Moreover he must have a good testimony among those who are outside, lest he fall into reproach and the snare of the devil.”) which taps into #3.
3) Romans 3:23 “For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God,…”
– These men are not perfect, but the same forgiveness God gives us, others we sin against give us & vice versa, we should give them. I, respectfully :), disagree with your reference to 1 Corinthians 5:12. Paul was discussing sexual immorality in the church (& other types of people we shouldn’t keep company with in verse 11); there’s no evidence that Bishop Long has been sexually immoral or any of the examples given in verse 11. The whole thing was “Yes he did/That’s not me” stuff, which equals heresy, & in any court of law inadmissible. He made some bad choices, & the Word clearly states what he needs to do in James 5:16. I know because of his actions (according to 1 Timothy 3:7), there are parishioners hurt by the outcome of the situation. We can’t make him issue an apology, but I am a firm believer in Matthew 18:15-17 (NKJV) ““Moreover if your brother sins against you, go and tell him his fault between you and him alone. If he hears you, you have gained your brother. But if he will not hear, take with you one or two more, that ‘by the mouth of two or three witnesses every word may be them, tell it to the church. And if he refuses to hear them, tell it to the church. But if he refuses even to hear the church, let him be to you like a heathen and a tax collector.”
Speaking Truth: I served Landers and saw a side of him that the public didn’t see. I know what he says about you and your fellow congregants when he’s “off stage”, I know how he watches every dollar that comes in and makes sure that he gets his “off the top”, I’ve seen families turned away (and have been instructed to turn them away) when they approach in need,…”
– My only issue with this statement is I haven’t seen it for myself. I am not calling you a liar, but I would be no better than an immature Christian who relies on Sunday/Wednesday services to sustain my hunger for God’s word vs. studying His word for myself to sustain my hunger if I were to just believe something I read. In other words, I need my own evidence :).
– In the paragraph where you reference the part of my comment talking about Moses & David, you’re absolutely correct. The both of them turned from their sin, & both were punished for it. That is why I referenced Hebrews 4:13. We’re all going to be judged one day, for everything, so if there is something going on & no one else catches it, God knew about it before it even happened…… all leaders that are contrary to God’s word in 1 Timothy 3:1-7 beware.
-In response to the scripture you’ve heard Pastor Landers take out of context, Galatians 5:8-10, do you know when he spoke about it, like a date or something? The way I figure it, if you could provide me with a date or sermon title, I could get the CD & do as God’s word says in 2 Timothy 2:15 (NKJV) Be diligent to present yourself approved to God, a worker who does not need to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.” I’ve been talking about having evidence as it relates to John 7:24, now I have an opportunity :).
– In response to your comment on my comment about the leaders I mentioned being guilty or not, I by no means meant that if there was evidence proving they are guilty of the things mentioned, parishioners should continue to submit themselves to that type of leadership. No,no,no. My only point is the same point that I made to N’Catina in my first statement to them & in the last statement to them as far as public repentance.
Last, but certainly not least :), Cryloud:
-First, let me say this. When I went to your website and saw the Pass/Fail test, I thought it was hilarious (in a good way, no disrespect). It was as simple as ABC, & that is what I found funny about it. We need teachers in the Body of Christ to teach God’s word as simple as that :). (Ahem) Now, back to the matter at hand. I like your comment & it’s 3 examples, but here’s where I say Hmm. I, respectfully, disagree with your statement “Forgiveness doesn’t exclude disqualification.”. I would change it to make it say “Forgiveness doesn’t exclude consequence.”. I do believe if it were a matter of a Pastor/bishop/Elder being guilty based on evidence contrary to 2 Timothy 3:1-7, they should adhere to James 5:16, & deal with whatever consequence, if any, God decides to give them.
For example, let’s say that you’re my best friend. You let me in your house one day & I steal money from your stash I know you keep somewhere in the house. You find out about it, I ask for your forgiveness, & you forgive me, but the consequence could be we’re no longer friends, we’re still friends & I’m not allowed in your house anymore, or you’re gracious and say “It’s no big deal. Wanna stop in tomorrow?”. I don’t believe that not adhering to scripture disqualifies leaders from the work of ministry, but I do believe that there are consequences if you don’t adhere, & the consequence/grace are in the hands of God to give how He sees fit. If there is evidence, we are to judge (James 7:24), put it in God’s hands, & pray.
Cryloud:
P.S. – there’s a typo in the note I left you. It’s 1 Timothy 3:1-7, not 2 Timothy; my fault.
Speaking Truth, & Cryloud:
I apologize again for not being totally clear with my original comment (I was so busy typing I realized later I only apologized to N’Catina). Love you all & thank you :).
Reply to GodIsLove:
You said:
“I do believe if it were a matter of a Pastor/bishop/Elder being guilty based on evidence contrary to 2 Timothy 3:1-7, they should adhere to James 5:16, & deal with whatever consequence, if any, God decides to give them.”
This is double talk. God has already decided what the consquences are for failing the 2 Timothy test for elder. One of the qualifications is to have a life that is above reproach. Certainly you would agree from what has happened that EL has failed miserably this qualification. If he has failed this basic qualification how can he remain a Elder, Pastor, or Bishop. You have already acknowleded that a person can be forgiven but that doesn’t absolve them from the consquence of their sin.
You then give this example:
“For example, let’s say that you’re my best friend. You let me in your house one day & I steal money from your stash I know you keep somewhere in the house. You find out about it, I ask for your forgiveness, & you forgive me, but the consequence could be we’re no longer friends, we’re still friends & I’m not allowed in your house anymore, or you’re gracious and say “It’s no big deal. Wanna stop in tomorrow?”. ”
This example is not valid, because in this case the sin (in your example) was against you, and your forgiveness gets to determine the level of consquence.
EL’s failure/sin was first and foremost against God. He claimed to be a minister of God, man of God, Elder and Bishop for the work of the Lord. His consquence has already been determined by what God inspired Paul to write in the Word. You nor I can dismiss this, because we think the consquence is too severe. Can we?
Finally you said:
“I don’t believe that not adhering to scripture disqualifies leaders from the work of ministry, but I do believe that there are consequences if you don’t adhere, & the consequence/grace are in the hands of God to give how He sees fit. If there is evidence, we are to judge (James 7:24), put it in God’s hands, & pray.”
This statement is contradictory. You don’t believe that the failure to adhere to scripture disqualifies leaders from the work of the ministry even though the Bible clearly says that it does. You do believe that there are consquences, but can’t or won’t acknowledge what these are? You say they are in the hands of God, yet when God says what the consquences are, you say we sould just pray. ??
No, we should watch and pray, Watch out for the wolves in sheeps clothing, and when we find out who they are, we shouldn’t just pray about it. We should do all in our power to point out the wolves, and warn the sheep of their presence!
EL is a wolf, there is no getting around this anymore.
Sheep beware!
Hello WarrenMA,
Thank you for your reply :). I do agree with you when you say that because of Bishop Long’s ordeal, that (before he were to confess his sin & repent) he no longer meets the qualification as stated in 1 Timothy 3:1-7 to continue being a Bishop. The point that I wanted to make was if Bishop Long confessed his sin, he is forgiven, but the consequence of his sin is decided by God. I don’t know what that consequence is & cannot say what it should be because I am not God. Can he resume his role as a Bishop after he has confessed his sin & repented? If it it’s God’s will. SHOULD he resume his role as a Bishop after he has confessed his sin & repented? Well, that’s a matter of opinion.
In my “best friend” example, I was trying to show me sinning against someone else, & by doing so my friend would forgive me, but he/she would ultimately decide what my consequence would be (if any) because of my sin against them. I know there have been times in my life where I’ve sinned against God/people, asked for forgiveness, & repented. Sometimes there was no consequence for my sin, & other times I felt like God had abandoned me because I felt my consequence was too great. Also, I lost a good friend because I sinned against her, even though she forgave me. My only prayer is that Bishop Long has confessed his sin, repented, & God’s will be done in his life from now on regarding ministry.
As for my 3rd point you referenced, I’ll make it clearer because I see how it was contradictory & I do apologize. If a Bishop/Pastor operates contrary to 1 Timothy 3:1-7, he has sinned & does not scripturally fit the qualification for Bishop/Pastor because he is in sin. If he confesses his sin & repents, I believe he would be fit again to perform the work of the ministry b/c he has been forgiven unless God says otherwise. The only exception would be if there has been evidence produced that would cause him to be judged (James 7:24), & after judgement he makes the choice to remain in leadership. If I were a parishioner in this situation, my way of placing it in God’s hands & praying would be to leave from under his leadership.
Why don’t folks get on Long concerning his heretical teachings that says Christians are reproductions, or exact duplicates of Christ, which basically makes all believers Christ, or God in the flesh? Creflo teaches the same thing. This cat Long and Creflo, been off of the salvation train (yeah I’m an arminian) a long time ago. In other words, the root of Long and Dollar’s arrogance, lies in the belief of theirs, that they are GOD! So in the end, Eddie may be gay, but he also believes himself to be divine, on the same level as JESUS!
Eddie Long is a charlatan. If he were smart, he’d recognize that it’s better to have your sins exposed now while you can still repent than to continue on in secresy & have it all brought out in judgement where it’s too late to repent. In addition to cleansing His church, I believe the Lord is trying to get somebody’s( Long ) attention. It’s almost like God is saying, “I’m watching you. I see your heart. Repent while you still can”. As much as I despise what these people teach & the reproach they bring on the body of Christ, I also know that the Lord is not willing that any should perish but that all should come to repentance. Doesn’t seem like Eddie is in repentance mode but….never know.
That said, why on earth would you refer to the young men, who were teens at the time they were being molested by Long, as his lovers? How do you justify saying something so irresponsible & disrespectful? In what way is that Christ-like? Keep it real & be frank but to refer to sex abuse victims as lovers? Really? It’s just like saying they wanted to have an intimate relationship with their pastor & mentor. Is that what you believe? Sounds more like these guys were preyed upon, manipulated & taken advantage of by someone they trusted. I seriously doubt that they would refer to themselves or would appreciate being refer to as Eddie Longs lovers.
In your zeal to expose the works of darkness, don’t forget to have compassion, especially on people who have ravaged- spiritually, monetarily & sexually- by these monsters.
Because all of the “boys” were over 18 years old when they agreed to enter sexual relationships with Eddie Long, Basil. According to the lawsuits that they all filed, they accused Eddie of sexual coercion, not molestation. That means they felt as though they were “tricked” into relationships with him. Although Eddie had groomed them from the time they were teens, He waited until they were all over 18. They still chose to have sex with Eddie on multiple occasions, so that makes them lovers. Lovers that were manipulated? Sure, but lovers nonetheless. They ALL consented to have sexual relations and relationships with Eddie Long – and that is an important distinction in the eyes of the law. If not, then why didn’t they all swear our police reports on Eddie and have him arrested? Because he broke no laws, that’s why.
Let’s not make the mistake of thinking that Eddie snuck into a daycare and started raping little boys. These MEN repeatedly had sex with Eddie Long – and they received cash and gifts in exchange for their silence…including their big pay-off when Eddie decided that it was more important to settle their suits and maintain their silence than to openly repent and tell the truth himself.
There are real victims out there who have been molested, abused, and attacked by people they trusted when they were children (chronologically and legally), and they didn’t get financial or material compensation. I’m sure they take umbrage to the fact that these MEN are cast as helpless children who were dragged off into the woods and raped.
It is Christ-like to be truthful – no matter how harsh it may sound, so yes, I do believe that I’m being Christ-like. You obviously think I’m not, and you’re entitled to your own opinion.
Can’t vouch for your personal Christ likeness because I don’t know you. What I said- and still say -was you comment was disrespectful & irresponsible…..& insensitive. Nowhere in my comment did I challenge whether or not you are a Christian. Confused perhaps? Or is it that you don’t care for dissenting views on your blog? The only reason I ask is because I disagreed with something you said & it seems you took it as a personal assault. Even Christian can disagree on non-foundational issues. Can we at least agree on that? Don’t be so sensitive.
I never implied that the young men were dragged off into the woods & raped. Cash gifts & trips notwithstanding, these guys were abused. It’s like you’re blaming them for what happened. Who knows why they waited so long to come forward? Who knows why they accepted his gifts? Eddie Long preyed on these guys. He picked his victims well. Predators always do. They sense the vulnerabilities of their prey. They know what they can get away with & who they can get over on. It’s diabolical the way he groomed these guys right up to the age of consent. He knew exactly what he was doing. If it ever did come out he- along with you -could say it was consensual. As if a so-called minister having consensual sex with boys is ok. Then again, if you’re just a so-called minister I guess it would be.
I don’t care how old they were when it began, it was beyond wrong & calling them his lovers is as insulting as calling a battered woman a sparring partner. Blessings.
Basil,
I won’t go back and forth with you (not that you’re asking me to) because I believe I understand the premise of what you’re expressing – and we fundamentally agree that Eddie Long is the villain in this scenario. I will not/do not defend him – not for his homosexuality, his false teachings, his flawed “theology”, or anything else. He’s a slick SOB, and fortunate for him his predatory actions skirted criminal law.
You’re right – you don’t know me, and I’m not confused. You wrote:
I answered your question accordingly, stating that it is Christ-like to speak the truth no matter the circumstances. I won’t go back and forth on calling abused women sparring partners, or anything else – I didn’t state that nor did I intimate that. As I wrote earlier – and the lawsuits state – these MEN were manipulated into sexual relationships with Eddie, and they believed that he loved them and they (in turn) loved him. That means they were lovers. Period. Yes, they were manipulated (with a very skewed and incorrect “interpretation” of the Word of God) with false love,. Sorry if it upsets your sensibilities, but it is what it is. I agree that age doesn’t matter per se, but these MEN were legal adults as recognized by the State of Georgia when the sexual portions of these relationships began, again – by their own admission.
Regarding “allowing negative comments on the blog” – have you read any of my other articles? I’ve been blogging for 3 years and have publicly and privately been called everything but a child of God. I only sensor vulgar language – not content – so anybody and everybody who has had something positive or negative to say has been allowed to say it. Your opinion was that my comment was “disrespectful, irresponsible, and insensitive” – and I disagree.
Let’s just leave it there…
What am I missing here?? GodIsLove, did you get down to verse 7 in 1 Tim 3??
1It is a trustworthy statement: if any man aspires to the office of overseer, it is a fine work he desires to do.
2An overseer, then, must be above reproach (nope), the husband of one wife (nope, he’s got some menfolk in that bed too), temperate (hardly), prudent (not), respectable (snicker), hospitable (well, only to young and naive males), able to teach (nope, he’s a heretic),
3not addicted to wine or pugnacious, but gentle, peaceable, free from the love of money (errrrrrr……nope).
4He must be one who manages his own household well (hardly….), keeping his children under control with all dignity 5(but if a man does not know how to manage his own household, how will he take care of the church of God?), 6and not a new convert, so that he will not become conceited (muscle shirts anyone??) and fall into the condemnation incurred by the devil.
7And he must have a good reputation with those outside the church, so that he will not fall into reproach and the snare of the devil (Too late!!).
Now, precisely how is it that Eddie’s “forgiveness” from God (leaving aside how you would verify that, since it depends upon the condition if his heart) affects his reputation with those OUTSIDE the church??
Eddie “repented”, it is assumed. So you argue that he’s eligible for re-instatement as a Bishop. But the Scriptures clearly demand that his reputation outside the church be good as well. Those outside the church are not impressed with repentance, genuine or not.
What the WORLD sees is a dude who preaches from Scripture (I won’t say he preaches Scripture, just twists verses FROM Scripture) which states that homosexuality is a sin, but then finds he indulges IN homosexuality.
I sincerely doubt that the world is saying…….
“Oh, he REPENTED to GOD of his blatant hypocrisy?? Well then, his rep is restored with ME. Yup, nothing I respect more than a Bishop who engages in homosexuality for a few decades, then repents to some invisible Deity I don’t even believe in only AFTER he gets CAUGHT and SUED, then pays millions of dollars in ALMS to make it go away.
Can anyone direct me to the nearest alter call?? (sniffle, snort).”
Please. Verse 7 ALONE explicitly denies him the opportunity to stand behind ANY pulpit…..unless it’s to run a vacuum cleaner and spray some Lemon Pledge on the wood in preparation for a QUALIFIED minister of the Gospel. The world is never going to hold him in ANYTHING but deserved contempt, and as long as he’s still playing Bishop he’s a reproach to Christ.
Hi Gary V,
Thank you for your reply :-). I understand your point, & I don’t want you to think I didn’t take into account Verse 7 of 1 Timothy 3. I cannot speak for Bishop Long’s actions as it relates to the confidentiality of his lawsuit & the public. His decision not to address why he settled & what happened is his choice. I wasn’t there, so I can’t say if he’s guilty or not… The facts are he was accused, he settled, & we don’t know why. As far as him having a good reputation outside the church, I pulled this excerpt from Wesley’s Explanatory Notes (Commentaries) at http://www.biblestudytools.com on verse 7:
“He ought also to have a good report – To have had a fair character in time past. From them that are without – That are not Christians.Lest he fall into reproach – By their rehearsing his former life, which might discourage and prove a snare to him.”
I read through every commentary (I encourage you to do the same:-)), & saw how Paul stressed the need for someone holding this title to have a good past reputation; the latter hinders Non-Christians from coming to Christ. I couldn’t find a scripture reference for what a Bishop/Elder/Pastor should do if their character has been tarnished outside the church. Paul just makes it crystal clear that someone in the position shouldn’t have a bad rap prior to the position. I’d like to assume if you don’t meet the verse 7 requirement, you can no longer hold the position, but you know what they say of someone who makes assumptions, lol :-). All in all Gary V, I know that this situation, along with others like it, didn’t catch my God off guard :-). My prayer is always that God’s will be done.
GodIsLove,
First, I admire your zeal, and I think you are sincere. However, I think that zeal might not be according to knowledge and understanding on this subject.
Secondly, I would respond to you, but I’m sure whatever I’d say would pale in comparison to what GaryV has cooking…(Plus, it’s so much more fun to read his comments)
Lastly, I would like for you to really, really, really
think about this statement:
“I couldn’t find a scripture reference for what a Bishop/Elder/Pastor should do if their character has been tarnished outside the church. Paul just makes it crystal clear that someone in the position shouldn’t have a bad rap prior to the position. I’d like to assume if you don’t meet the verse 7 requirement, you can no longer hold the position, but you know what they say of someone who makes assumptions, lol ”
Soli Deo Gloria,
R4C
R4C,
Thank you for your reply :-). I love God & His word. It’s my desire to strengthen my relationship with Him, & help others to know Him & do the same.
First, I would like to apologize for the excerpt I pulled from Wesley’s Explanatory
notes; I shouldn’t have. As for my statement you mentioned, the only point that I wanted to make by saying that was there is no verse in the Bible that says “If you are a Bishop/Pastor/Elder etc. & your reputation is tarnished, you should remove yourself from leadership.”. I am not taking up for Bishop Long, I just believe there has been no concrete proof that he is guilty of anything. It’s all been “He did it/I’m not the man portrayed on the television” mumbo jumbo. I’m Speaking Truth mentioned in a dialogue between them & myself in previous posts that they’ve witnessed first hand how my pastor, Andre Landers, has been corrupt in his leadership at HLCC. Again, I do not believe that IST is lying, but I did state to them that I needed my own evidence b/c I’m no better than a church-goer who listens to a sermon & doesn’t open the Bible to study the word that was spoken for myself. As far as Bishop Long’s alleged sexual misconduct, there has been no evidence that shows he’s guilty; no sworn statements, testimonies, witnesses, nothing. I need something other than heresy, opinions, & allegations before I can confidently say he’s guilty; the same with what IST has said about Pastor Landers. In the mean time, I’ll continue to pray that God’s will be done.
And why isn’t there any evidence of guilt? Because the Bishop paid everyone to keep the facts (and proof) quiet.
It always comes back to one simple fact.
Innocent men don’t pay the accusers to with hold the truth.
Hi Cop,
Thank you for your reply :-). I definitely understand your point. I do not agree with Bishop Long settling, nor with the confidentiality clause along with the settlement. My point all along has been that no one outside of the lawsuit (factually) will know what happened, & because of that it’s not just to make assumptions/options into fact. You just can’t judge someone off of assumptions, only proof, & unfortunately because of the confidentiality clause there is none. Whenever I’ve been asked by my family or friends “Do you believe he is innocent or guilty?”, I respond “I don’t know, but I’m praying for him & God’s will to be done.”. We must remember God has the power to heal all wounds & forgive all sins (Psalms 103:2-3). Bishop Long, the 4 plaintiffs, the other young man involved, and all affected by this situation need our prayers, not our opinions.
GodISLOve-Eddie Long needs forgiveness which is given via repentance. Stop fooling yourself….You know what happen but you choose to hide behind mis-interpreted scriptures to play the nut role “I don’t know what happen…” Yes we should pray but EL needs repentance…..
You tell us why another man would have his name (Eddie Long) tattooed on His arm?
For fun??
Hi brdavision,
Thank you for your reply :-). I agree with you. Bishop Long (if he hasn’t already) needs to ask God for forgiveness & repent. I’m far from perfect, but I have done my best to accurately quote scriptures from the Bible to go with the points I’ve made in every discussion. However, I have a love for learning, & if you feel that I’ve misinterpreted any scriptures, I’d like to hear your point of view on the scriptures I’ve misinterpreted in order to gain better understanding. No playing the “nut role” here :-). My point from the last post was that any proof of innocence or guilt on Bishop Long’s involvement with the 4 plaintiffs & the 5th young man will never be public knowledge because of the confidentiality clause. From the appearance of things, Bishop Long looks guilty, but according to John 7:24 (NKJV) it says ” Do not judge according to appearance, but judge with righteous judgement.” If there is no proof, you cannot say for a fact that he is guilty, however the matter can be established as it says in Deuteronomy 19:15 (NKJV) “One witness shall not rise against a man concerning any iniquity or any sin that he commits; by the mouth of two or three witnesses the matter shall be established.” You can establish all the matters you want, but in order to judge him righteously, you need proof which we don’t have because of the confidentiality clause. As far as the 5th young man with the tattoo on his wrist; I shook my head with sadness as the story broke on Fox 5 news @10. My sister called me and said “So you’re STILL not going to say whether or not you think he’s guilty?”, to which I replied “What I think about his guilt or innocence is irrelevant; he needs prayer.”. I pray that he has asked God for forgiveness, repented, & that God’s will be done.
I agree, Cop.
“And why isn’t there any evidence of guilt? Because the Bishop paid everyone to keep the facts (and proof) quiet.”
You’re right Cop but there ain’t enough money in the world to keep God from exposing false teachers and their hypocrisy. There was 5 accusers of Bishop Eddie long. Apparently he tried to keep this latest one quite but the Eddie long tattoo on his wrist spoke volumes. Read more here:
http://touchyaneighbor.com/2011/07/29/bishop-eddie-has-paid-5-accusers-long/#more-2245
And the hits keep coming.
http://www.pimppreacher.com/Centino-Kemp-Shopping-Spree-With-New-Birth-Tithes.html
There were signs something was seriously wrong many moons ago. The Word of God being defined as fresh sperm, derogatory comments from the pulpit (such as toss you salad), ill advice to men in the nation of Jesus meetings and leaders using words like damn and hell in meetings, the decline of the youth ministry / conference every year, the constant rebranding of auxillaries and Eddie hiding his presence when Soulforce visited his church (Soulforce posted pictures of Eddie meeting with him at New Birth). Stripping the membership of their voting rights by making the church a businessnes instead of a church without informing them? That’s some horrendous web his wife is caught up in. Long, the board of directors and the whole leadership of the church should to step down. I’m quite sure Eddie and his leadership feel confident that they have things in place to continue to exercise damage control paralyzing those who are loyal to him (blinded) and/or to the church. Allowing Art Franklin to explain to the congregation that they weren’t told about the fifth victim was to protect the church. Should the membership have the knowledge to make an decision to stay or leave? Makes you wonder what else they are holding back. It’s sad that the leadership doesn’t think more of the intelligence of their congregation. So, it obvious the church has felt the decline in numbers financially and in attendance. Mega churches experience people leaving for various reasons and new people coming at the same time. Slowly, New Birth will experience people leaving and very few coming.
Here’s yet another sorry segment to this sordid story.
http://global.christianpost.com/news/bishop-eddie-long-lawsuit-church-members-sue-minister-after-losing-1m-58731/