WHERE WOLF THERE WOLF

Why are there people who will use, God's Word which they distort and abuse?
Charlatans with their magnetic bracelets and rings, selling them and other useless things.
You prepare your traps with your unholy bait, waiting for souls to seal their fate.
To relieve them from their precious cash, and add to the rest of your material trash.
You promised them prosperity and perfect health, tenfold returns and untold wealth.
You prey on the weak and the souls in pain, and you do all these for power and gain.
Beware you false shepherd, you mislead the flock, God is not one Whom you can mock.
Think not for a moment that you can win, for you shall account for your habitual sin.
Removed shall you be, unmasked and defrocked, for you have cheated, lied and mocked.
Before you know it you shall be gone, and the flock shall be led by the Good Shepherd-Son.

(Image from http://www.stopcp.com/)

SHEPHERD OR FOE?

A friend of mine traveling in Syria relates how he stopped to watch three shepherds who were by a well watering their flocks. The three flocks were all mingled together at the watering place. My friend could not see anything different between them, and he wondered how they could get them all separated again without much trouble. But when one of the shepherds stood forth and called out, "Menah!" the Arabic for "Follow me," and sure enough, some thirty sheep immediately separated themselves from the indiscriminate mass and began to follow the shepherd up the hill. Then, a second shepherd lifted the same cry, "Menah!" and a second flock separated themselves and started after him, while the rest of the sheep remained as unconcerned as if no one had spoken at all.

My friend was so astonished that as he saw the third shepherd preparing to leave, laying his hand to his crook and beginning to gather some dates fallen from a palm beneath which he had been resting, he stepped up to him and asked, "Would your sheep follow me if I called them?" The man shook his head left to right and vice versa. "May I borrow your shepherd's cloak and crook and let me try?" My friend said that he even wound the shepherd's turban round his head and standing forth began to cry, "Menah! Menah!" but not a single sheep moved. They only blinked at him lazily in the sunshine. "Do they never follow anyone but you?" asked my friend. "Only when a sheep is sick, then the silly creature follows anyone, false shepherds included," the shepherd replied.

Whose voice are you following?

(Image from http://www.keyway.ca/)

PULPIT FICTION

Question: What is the difference between alcoholics and drunkards?
Answer: Alcoholics attend meetings. Drunkards cancel them.

So, I guess it is now safe to conclude that when my former pastor is in the South, he is an alcoholic. And when he is in the North, he metamorphs into a drunkard. Figure that out yourself.

I say "former," because that is all he ever will be to me in many ways. Former pastor, former friend, former confidant, former colleague, former counselor, former life-coach and former fellow-runner of the race.

I find it really funny and stupid that a supposedly prosperity preacher would resort to peddling bracelets and necklaces on the side, that when worn would make one achieve superhuman qualities. "Super-gulang" qualities perhaps? That probably explains why to this day he continues to use our church name without permission from us. But the other one thing I really would take him to task here is why does he have to get in touch with members of our church and meet them and vend all these nonsensical items? I can always do the same to his church, but I'd like to think of myself as one who is decent and has moral values and respect for someone else's sheep. But my former pastor (okay, let's address him now as "John Doe," does that sound close enough for you?) would be the opposite, and would poach on waters not in his turf. I say "poach" because that is really what he has been doing - fishing unlawfully. A poacher is by nature one who doesn't care how he catches his meal for the day, just as long as he gets it and does so in a "quick, before I get caught" fashion. And this action of his is a blatant display of arrogance and hypocrisy which has to be addressed immediately. If you ask me, I believe he should be fired again from his current church in the same manner we fired him when he resorted to alcohol abuse resulting to drunkenness and immoral behavior unbecoming of a pastor and "life-coach," which was happening nightly to this day. He continues to bring shame and toxicity to the noble vocation of being a pastor. His accountability pastor was even so surprised to find out during one of their counseling sessions that our John Doe was devastated to have lost a huge amount of monthly income, but didn't care at all losing the ministry. But I really am not surprised at this revelation. You, a prosperity preacher? Whose prosperity are we talking about here? You and your cabal of "Tupperware salesmen" I'm sure. (with apologies to all former Tupperware salespeople for this unfair comparison). Step down and bring back decency in the title "Pastor." Step down and shed off that sheep's clothing and run off like a rabid lone wolf in search of its pack. Otherwise, I may be forced to declare the Hunting Season as "OPEN."

(Image from http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r8/Lupine71/)

FEED YOUR SHEEP, NOT YOURSELVES

Men in business who hear a "calling" to enter the ministry of evangelism may be a noble thing to answer. But, when you are a man of God - a pastor, having attended Bible school and seminary, and then venture into business to make that extra cash, then something is definitely wrong with your faith, or whatever is left of it, especially if you are identified as a prosperity teacher. What I find so unfair in this situation is that you simply take advantage of your congregation when it comes to selling your wares. From a church member's standpoint, it would be quite difficult to turn away your pastor when he knocks on your door or rings your phone and tells you he has some items you may be interested to buy. Why so? Because that same congregation is his natural market and they would find it quite difficult to turn him down. And that is why networking companies and their leaders target pastors today to sell their business, for the simple reason that they already have the prospective buyers in the palms of their hands.

When a pastor is called to serve God, and then answers that call, he must not take lightly the task that comes with it as to get involved with other things outside the ministry. This cheapens the nobility of doing God's work here on Earth. Sadly so today, we hear of legions of men of God being lured into the networking business to earn fast money. This is all too bothersome as to openly show their flock that their faith isn't strong enough as to rely on God's unlimited supply of blessings to those who would obey His command to spread the Gospel unto the far reaches of the Earth. Proven fact: if you take care of God's business, He will take care of your needs. Joining a business venture with other pastors is simply a collective manner of "untrusting" God and cheapening the vocation. That is why the best solution really is - if you're a pastor, stay as one. Period. Your hands should be too full to get involved with other "worldly" matters.

I don't like to kick a man when he is down, and I believe in loyalty to friends. But when a man repeatedly commits horrendous sins and presents himself as a man of God (with all that implies), then I no longer consider him as a friend when he proves that he was not what was represented. He was a friend yesterday, but an enemy today. He betrayed his Savior, his ordination vows, his wife and friends who greatly respected him. He betrayed his church - God's church. And doing a great amount of good never negates the evil. My personal belief is simple: "transfering" an erring pastor from one church to another is simply allowing him to continue his lechery and treachery, because he had already lost his right to be in the pulpit. And if there is any shame left in him, he should just stop being a pastor and just be himself and join his money-faced networkers. Friends of his who put money above God. Ex-pastors like him who own black-colored Bibles that have now turned gray due to the accumulate dust. But I have since forgiven him, and it is my sincere prayer that he shall soon see the light, and this time, not walk away from it again. Instead, run towards it and come clean before the very same God we both call upon and who answers us in good times and in bad.

(Image from http://netministry.com/)

LIAR LIAR

Sometimes, a man will sacrifice truth just to save face, no matter how thick. One of the members of his congregation who happens to be a friend of mine sent me a text message asking if it was true what their pastor was saying that he resigned from his previous church, and was not fired. I promptly replied by saying that the road to hell is paved with a lot of good PRETENTIONS.

Okay, if he says so. And on that note, this story is for him:

A minister, having served the same church for a few years decided to leave to take a similar position in another church.

Without telling anyone he had made his decision or writing a letter to the congregation, he waited until Sunday to announce his resignation in church.

When he spoke to the congregation, he said, "The same Jesus that called me to this church a few years ago has now called upon me to leave and serve another church."

Just then, the choir and the congregation all stood and sang, "What a friend we have in Jesus ..."

(Image from http://www.maths.monash.edu.au/)

PROSPERITY WITH A DARK PURPOSE - PART XIII
"Confidence in an unfaithful man in time of trouble is like a broken tooth, and a foot out of joint." - Proverbs 25:19

"Throughout the world, error and truth travel the same highways, work in the same fields and factories, attend the same churches, fly the same planes and shop the same stores. So skilled is error at imitating the truth that the two are constantly being mistaken for each other. It takes a sharp eye these days to know which brother is Cain and which is Abel." - A. W. Tozer

Before I continue with the series, allow me to make myself clear lest my colleagues get the equal share of criticisms I have been getting, but just as well, I am grateful for the support of a bigger number of people who have been following these "prosperity" posts. Henceforth, everything I have written here is entirely on a personal opinion and account, and therefore does not necessarily reflect the opinions of my colleagues in ministry.

It's hard to imagine how one can run his race strong with "a foot out of joint" only because of his continued trust in a so-called 'life-coach' instead of a continued trust in the faithful life-giver. Before the inevitable church split, we consulted his accountability pastor, the same man he has repeatedly boasted of as one who he respects the most and follows his advice to the letter. One he would obey without question in the same way a loyal k-9 would obey his handler. But lo and behold, the very advice given by this accountability pastor of his was the very same advise he did not follow - and that is NOT to preach first without submitting himself for correction. And so, I am convinced to the letter as well that this man is acutely infected with the malady called Pastoral Narcissism. What does this mean? It is simply the state in which a pastor now believes he is the center of the universe and that accountability in all forms is a foreign concept, impervious to fault and openly hostile to examination and correction. This type of a leader is most likely to fall into extreme ego-trips. I won't be surprised at all if he talks to God - in front of a mirror, for he is a self-made man who worships his creator. And many of the people around him have somehow contributed to his narcissistic behavior because they simply did not correct it. I hate questioning your wisdom in dealing with this so-called pastor, but I am also reminded about what Edmund Burke said and it goes something like this: "It only takes good men to do nothing for evil to triumph." And so, now you have a man whose head is bigger than his whole body, and there is always a sure chance for him to repeat his sin, as many have said that there is indeed an underlying pattern in his errant behavior. That is also the reason why I abhor him using the name of the church which he does not have any association with anymore. He simply is misrepresenting himself, and fooling you his congregation. Unless again, you approve of it. So, to set things straight, I would suggest that he immediately take on another church name before he takes on another church woman to satisfy his lust, and bring shame to our name again, in the same manner he had already done recently. Let this also be a reminder that the church is not him, and he is not the church, and that not a single member of the board is with him. They are all with us. And so, using the same name must have the approval of the legitimate board, and you and I know the consequences in failing to do so on purpose. Legal or otherwise. Common sense is not common to you after all. And in all these, I have since believed firmly that it is better to be divided in truth than to be united in error, and it is better to speak the truth that hurts and then heals, than to speak the lie that comforts and then kills. For true preachers of God's Word do not ensnare His people with unknown revelations or esoteric insights of Scriptures, and then label "immature" those who would question such teachings. Some of the teachings you simply copied from Eugenio Isabelo Tomas Reyes Sanchez Jr., a.k.a. Bo Sanchez. Teachings like "How To Find Your One True Love." Sad, but you couldn't even find your one true material to use for your training sessions. You have to "borrow" from other sources. It looks like you were nowhere to be found when God was giving out originality. On the other hand, you carried away more than your hands could contain when the enemy was distributing hypocrisy. Try having "quiet time" with God for a change, and then maybe He will give you the wisdom you badly need. Shepherds are supposed to be wearing sandals, not rollerskates. Don't fast-track your ministry towards accomplishments and self-aggrandizements at the expense of people who still trust you, or you will surely end up derailed in all your endeavors. Before you start patting yourself on your back, ask someone to knock your head first with a hard-bound Jerusalem Bible. That should scare the bejesus out of you! Haven't you learned your lessons in life yet? That's what you get for not submitting to your accountability pastor. I have spoken to several wonderful and real shepherd-pastors who know you and know of you, and they are one in believing unanimously that you should just leave the ministry. And stop telling people you resigned. Tell them the truth that you were fired because of immorality and drunkenness. Do not contaminate any further the flock. For as the saying goes, "You can fool all of the people some the time, and some of the people all of the time, but you cannot fool all of the people all of the time." Allowing you in ministry is just like giving whiskey and the car keys to a teen-aged boy. Stop using someone else's church name (logo), and pull down the website. It's not good for people to think that you're still part of our church. Kahiya-hiya. And shame on you if you continue to use this name in your new theatre-venue. Magpakatotoo ka na. Ipakita mo na sa kanila ang tunay mong pagkatao. A Pachyderm-Pastor is what you truly are. Dati, nagalit ka sa pastor mo kasi kamo binira ka mula sa pulpito. Heto, ganun ka din pala, bumibira din ng padaplis sa pulpito! Dati, galit ka din sa dati mong pastor kasi kamo huli na siya kung bumisita sa may sakit. Heto, ganun ka din pala. Siguro, yung mga binibisita mong may sakit na malapit nang "kunin ni Lord" e hinihintay ka nalang dumating bago sila tumigok. Ang kaso, they can't hold their last breath forever while you take your sweet time. Kawawa naman sila, akalain mo, ikaw ang huling tao na makikita nila sa lupa bago sila sumalangit? What bad memories of Earth for them! And stop texting/inviting female youth members of a neighboring church. Sayang lang ang mga piso mo kada send. Ipunin mo na lang pambili mo ng pampalasing, di masaya ka pa. Wag ka na rin sanang magsinungaling. Sabihin mo ang totoo that you were fired and that you didn't really resign. Ang haba na siguro ng ilong mo, kasing haba na ng listahan ng mga taong may atraso ka. Mahiya ka naman. Aren't you ashamed of yourself for giving a bad name to all well-meaning pastors? Sinisira mo ang dangal nilang pangalan. Step down from the pulpit and bring back the respect and dignity to all pastors who have been affected directly and indirectly by your unrepented behavior. Pastors who have worked all their lives in ministry to achieve the nobility and respectability in their churches. My words are all too little and tame compared to what you have done to people - innocent victims they were. Vulnerable and all too trusting sheep. You should be present if and when that meeting day comes, because this really is all about you and all the trouble you have caused. Otherwise, let it now be said to all that flight is guilt - and cowardice, which now makes you a wolf with folded ears and a tucked-tail. And if you do not show up, I could very well end up saying, "I feel so miserable without you. It's almost like having you here."

(Image from http://www.jail4judges.org/)

PROSPERITY WITH A DARK PURPOSE - PART XII
"You teach others -- why don't you teach yourself? ... You say, "Do not commit adultery" -- but do you commit adultery? ... You boast about having God's law -- but do you bring shame on God by breaking His law?" - Romans 2:21, 22 & 23

"Big men and big personalities make mistakes and admit them. It is the little man who is afraid to admit he has been wrong." - Dr. Maxwell Maltz

In reaction to Dr. Maltz's wise words, allow me to add this: "... It is the little man who is bold to declare he has been wronged." - LCB


Really now. What a gooey defense. Well, in continuation, how does one recognize false teachers and teachings from Biblical teachers and teachings? While some may fall under the category of false teachers, others may teach certain doctrines which are false or that are not in accordance with the Word of God, while most of what they teach is in line with Scriptures. Subtle but wrong! Some teachers whose teachings are analyzed in respect to what the Bible teaches when all related Scriptures line up perfectly, may prove to be fine teachers and gifted speakers, even acting like frustrated clowns in the pulpit, but where they depart from Scripture, it is only prudent and wise that we as believers recognize these discrepancies and expose them, and affirm only the truth that is in full agreement with God's inspired Word. There is no doubt that discernment itself is a very controversial issue. Many of those whose teachings or behaviors are "judged" even according to Scriptures condemn their accusers and despise their criticisms. They would rather choose a safe and comfortable word like "tolerance." To them, I give them a better word - "ignorance." Some criticisms are indeed divisive and unnecessary, but let's put it this way: If you tend to think that those who would dare judge or criticize apparently unscriptural teachings would be much better-off just preaching the Gospel and minding their own business, consider this: What if manufacturers had no quality control departments, how would their products come out? What if the National Police Commission (Napolcom) had no internal affairs division, how much more would the PNP's corruption increase? (on that note, I don't think they have one). What if the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) never audited anyone, how many people would pay their taxes? If we know that the false teaching will lead to hell-fire beyond all doubt, do we just sit back and do nothing like zombie-fanatics? Within the body of Christ, it seems very reasonable to believe that God has intentionally called certain ones in His Body to focus on keeping His message pure and toxic-free (alcohol-free?).

Many false teachers and teachings unfortunately do arise from those who would just rather see what they want to see, hear what they want to hear - those who are motivated by money and power. But there are those who are simply too trusting to their teachers. Wala na silang makitang mali sa kanya. His style is simple and I know this all too well: He hears a particular doctrine taught by another false teacher, adapts that teaching to suit his audience and tailor-fits it to their taste and liking, and then another teacher comes along, listens to him and adapts it too. Thus, the teaching is perpetuated. it's a never-ending cycle of deception. This is not really hard to believe because history will show that many false doctrines have been spread by this method. Let's zero-in again on one of his favorite if not his only merchandise: Prosperity. FALSE: Prosperity teachings which claim (erroneously) that not only was Jesus wealthy on Earth, but that God desires all believers to be wealthy and that prosperity, in health and in wealth, is guaranteed in the covenant of salvation. TRUE: God desires from us all to have an "abundant life" in Christ, living in the power of the Holy Spirit and experiencing the fruits of the Spirit. But oftentimes, God's will allows such things as suffering, infirmities, sickness, trials, tribulation, persecution, or even martyrdom as Scripture and history clearly would show. Jesus lived on Earth without even "a place to lay His head," and Scripture teaches that His lifestyle was far from the wealthy lifestyle that some, just like this erroneous-egghead taught Christ to have lived. This fib originates in an effort by such teachers to not only justify their own indulgent lifestyles, but also to promote their popular prosperity teachings and increase giving to their ministries from those who are seeking the promised health and wealth, especially since the two are often tied together in a not-so-subtle method of deception to their "clients." As a reminder to him who has reminded me to treat church leaders as "clients," if this were a business entity (you sure are treating it like one), then by all means call them "clients." But it is a church, so stick to calling them "elders," or if you want to be "religiously correct," call them "deacons." But to call them "clients" gives one the impression of "mukhang pera." Fair enough? Christ calls us not to seek after wordly riches, but instead to "store up treasures in Heaven," and to give our lives as "living sacrifices." And as we seek first to serve His Kingdom, and of course, work as God's Word commands, we can be assured that He will provide for all our needs. Doesn't he know that? He's the gifted teacher. We're just his dumb sheep, remember? Oh, did I hear someone utter, "gifted poacher?"

It is therefore our hope that those who hunger for truth should find balance in how they evaluate which teachers they listen to and learn from. Some teachers need to be carefully filtered while others should be avoided in the same manner he avoids the poor and needy church-goer! But others can of course be trusted implicitly by grounding ourselves in the unchanging Word of God and considering it our final authority in all matters of faith and practice, we will have a greater ability to distinguish between true and false teachings and avoid deception. In the meantime, we can be like the Bereans who searched the Scriptures daily to see if what they heared was true - or not! Look to the Author of the Word, and not to the preacher of the Word. Especially not this one. He has been unmasked. "Buking na ang style niyang bulok!" So, what are you his "clients" doing about this? Are you going to act decisively or are you going to sweep this under the rug just like he has done so in the past, and then empower him to repeat his sin? Where now is the wisdom he has so repeatedly boasted of? Can't afford to lose him, huh? Remember, he ain't gold. If that is so, please change your church name for obvious reasons, and because he has no exclusivity on it and thereby misrepresenting himself, and I doubt very much if he has the legal papers as well. Of course you know very well that the legal papers to that church name he uses are not with him. Must you tolerate this error too? The papers are with a legitimate church elsewhere. He should just tell every member of his congregation the real story. Lying can be oh so tiring and taxing. He knows the consequences to that, and I hope he's prepared to face them. Here's hoping he sees the light in 2009. And by the way, he shoudn't just stop at seeing it - he should walk towards it. Don't worry, it won't burn him. Or ... will it?

(Images from http://www.zianet.com/ & http://www.aryannationsrevival.org/)

PROSPERITY WITH A DARK PURPOSE - PART XI
"Those who continue in their sin are to be rebuked publicly, so that others may take warning." - 1 Timothy 5:20

"Error, indeed, is never set forth in its naked deformity, lest being thus exposed, it should at once be detected. But it is craftily decked out in an attractive dress, so as by its outward form, to make it appear to the inexperienced ... more true than truth itself." - Irenaeus of Lyons


Since these series of posts have come into existence taking somewhat a life of its own, some in hard copies, finding its way in the hands of many, some of those many have since labeled me as a 'Pastor Buster.' Whether meant to be a compliment or otherwise is just the same to me, and sometimes, it really gets tiring when people tell you that "pastors are human too," and my simple answer to them is "neither are they God that you should not question their motives." Well, fair enough, because I didn't think my former one was made of pure gold. I only expected him to be sincere. He simply turned out to be made of pure rust. And he remains part of the problem, not the solution. Shepherds should always set the example for the flock to emulate. For how can one act as medicine if internal contamination in one's body has already taken place? For rust, in time, will creep even into the strongest of steel and corrosion will be inevitable. Take a closer look at some of his closest followers. They already reason out like him, tolerant towards his sin, even sacrificing originality by quoting the same Bible passages over and over again. If labeling is the order of the day for me, so be it. For if that be I, then shall I gladly live the tag well, if only to expose the false teachers amongst us. Whether he be a 'Prophet of Prosperity,' an 'Architect of Abundance,' or an 'Instructor of Increase,' in my book, he still is a 'Pastor of Pretense.'

Where does he get all the momentum and guts to persevere in his falsehood? Well, a juggernaut consisting of a great multitude of wolves in "decked out" sheep's clothing has cleverly infiltrated today's Christian churches for the sole purpose of preying, rather than praying, on their unsuspecting victims. Some of these pastors even moonlight now as networkers selling wares that totally defy Scriptures. There will always be strength in numbers. How did this happen? In consequence of indifference, emotionalism, and ministerial idolization, most Christians today are not paying attention to Jesus' warning that there will be many false teachers in the church during these last days (Matthew 24:4-5). Learning how to detect heretical doctrines (1 Timothy 4:16, 2 Timothy 4:3) hasn't really been a priority for many believers. In fact, doctrinal discernment is almost completely void. To a certain extent, this predicament thas been kindled from the false teachers' inappropriate and antagonistic use of "Judge not" and "Touch not the Lord's anointed." This is simply a 'terror strategy' designed to keep congregations in their place. As a result, we now have well-meaning believers who are simply unequipped to discern the true from the false. The light from darkness. The wolf from the shepherd.

When speaking of false teachers, it has become the practice of many believers to conceive that the implication is in reference to those outside the Christian community. On the contrary, believers are repeatedly warned to be on guard against falsehood within the church. It is those who allege to come in Christ's name, seemingly confessing the Lord as their Savior. It is this type of pretense coupled with seductive entertainment from the pulpit and self-empowerment and prosperity sermons that has contributed to the acceptance of false leaders in church.

With that, I encourage and challenge you to study and draw a comparison between Scriptures and the pastor of your church. The Berean Christians who were of noble character, "searched the Scriptures daily to find out whether these things (which Paul taught) were so" (Acts 17:11). In the same way, it should be our responsibility to diligently search and test the teachings of the leadership in our respective churches without partiality. It is my belief that any pastor who cannot stand the test of investigation and challenge should be approached with circumspection. As a result of these posts, I anticipate receiving inflamed responses from their pastor's zealous supporters. While some readers of these posts may be offended, we must understand that Godly love never rules out correction. Godly love for people never signifies disregard for truth as not to "rock the boat." Proverbs 27:5 says it clearly, "Open rebuke is better than love carefully concealed." Godly love for people does not signify that we engage in self-imposed blindness, tolerating false doctrine in order to maintain unity. Sad, as many now have been "optically challenged" by his pulpit antics and shallow showmanship. At the end of the day, it all sums up to essence and substance. A failing mark for him in this aspect. Psalm 119:104 says, "Through Your precepts I get understanding, therefore, I hate every false way." Thus, failing to expose and separate (Ephesians 5:8-11) from the wolves in sheepskin simply permits them to have a "field day" on unsuspecting, naive, and idolatrous sheep. The wolves who quote and attempt to hide under Psalms 105:15, Matthew 7:1, and Romans 14:4 are so filled with greed that they don't want to see errors of their ways and the inconsistencies in judging others who have an obligation to investigate what is taught from the pulpit (Acts 17:11, 2 Timothy 2:15, 3:16, 4:2-5, 1 John 4:1).

As a clear and concise refutation to this misleading prosperity doctrine, let's take note of the following crucial points regarding those false teachers who claim that Godliness is a means to financial gain, as well as the true definition of biblical prosperity:

1. They are conceited (have you noticed their arrogance? They call it confidence).
2. They know nothing. (The blind leading the blind) Matthew 15:14, Mark 7:7-9, 2 Cor. 11:13-15
3. They are men of corrupt minds who lack the truth (They distort the truth and reject correction - sounds familiar?) 2 Timothy 4:3-4
4. They are greedy and believe that Godliness is a source of financial gain. 2 Cor. 2:17
5. We should not have fellowship with them.
6. True riches are Godliness (spiritual richness in Christ) coupled with contentment. Heb. 13:5
7. The Bible says that we should be content with food and clothing (basic living essentials). To these false teachers, that means large bank accounts, large houses, luxury cars etc.
8. The strong temptation of greed will cause them to fall into a snare, in a manner similar to drug addiction, they will defend and hold on to their false doctrine despite clear evidence that refutes their shady position.

In summary, (1 Timothy 6:3-10): From God's point of view, true gain (prosperity) is attained when one lives a Godly life and becomes content with their material possessions. Granted there are a number of Christians who have been blessed with much wealth and other material things, however, this is never the state or criteria one must reach to be recognized as prosperous by Biblical terms. He says, "you need to be prosperous and moneyed to be able to help the poor, otherwise, how can you help them?" That's the height of bull if you ask me. As expected from a fly's favorite landing area. There are many other ways to help the poor. Money is only one among many ways. God's word alludes to believers who were materially poor, as well as those who were materially rich. Thus, we cannot offer poverty nor wealth as an absolute prescriptive pertaining to Godliness. To do otherwise would lead to an out of context and unbalanced view of Scriptures. In their greed , they use the Bible to focus on men who are wealthy while concurrently ignoring Scriptures that clearly illustrate that some believers are poor. Observe his uncomfortable behavior when a poor man attends his church or trainings. He will immediately have this mindset that we must first reach out to the wealthy to be able to reach out later on to the poor. Another bull if you ask me, for when does one stop reaching out to the wealthy and begin reaching out to the poor? Thus, they "cherry-pick" other portions of Scripture and mold them in a manner that suits their self-indulgent agenda - and that is to fleece the flock. It is thus very clear that his so-called prosperity gospel is a doctrine that Christ would strongly reject. And while it is true that some believers have been conditioned to accept poverty, this shouldn't mean that we must readily embrace the crooked justification to develop a doctrine that is not biblically sound. Lastly, teachers like him do not take kindly to being challenged. They demand everyone submit to their authoritarian rule by simply saying "OBEY ME!" in a Gestapo-like fashion. This really makes him a "German Shepherd," don't you agree? Believe me, I should know, for those were his very words to me when I politely questioned one of his decisions without even giving me any explanation whatsoever. Their corrupt agenda entails taking advantage of those who are unskilled in biblical interpretation. When confronted by one who is proficient in proper biblical truth, they use evasive tactics and resort to threats rather than offer constructive dialogue, as if almost saying: "Do not touch My anointed one, and do My prophets no harm." (Psalm 105:15), "Judge not, that you be not judged." (Matthew 7:1), "Who are you to judge another's servant? To his own master he stands or falls. Indeed, he will be made to stand, for God is able to make him stand." (Romans 14:4). And so, not only do these false teachers deprive proper Scriptural discernment through fear tactics. They have also mentally conditioned their devoted followers to parrot these verses to anyone who criticizes their pastor. To question their "man of God" would mean to them as questioning God Himself. This is an apparent defense among cult leaders and their wayward sheep. Sad, but true. I end with this reminder:

"But woe to you who are rich, for you have received your consolation. Woe to you who are full, for you shall hunger. Woe to you who laugh now, for you shall mourn and weep. Woe to you when all men speak well of you, for so did their fathers to the false prophets." - Luke 6:24-26

(Image from http://www.myteespot.com/)

PROSPERITY WITH A DARK PURPOSE - PART X
Therefore thus saith the Lord the God of Israel to the pastors that feed My people: "You have scattered My flock, and have driven them away, and have not visited them. Behold, I will visit upon you for the evil of your doings," saith the Lord. - Jeremiah 23:2 (Douay-Rheims Bible)

Kaya't ganito ang sabi ng Panginoon, ng Dios ng Israel, laban sa mga pastor na nangagpastol ng Aking bayan. "Inyong pinangalat ang Aking kawan, at inyong iniligaw sila, at hindi ninyo sila dinalaw. Narito, dadalawin Ko sa inyo ang kasamaan ng inyong mga gawa," sabi ng Panginoon. - Heremias 23:2 (Ang Dating Biblia, 1905)


Kung 'di ka pa matauhan sa mensaheng 'yan, wala ka na talagang pag-asang magbago pa. I heard you're moving to a theatre nearby. Good for you, for a theatre is just the place one would be in to play a role. To act out a lie. To pretend while wearing an invisible mask. Perfect for you. Marami ka na naman malolokong tao. Ang saya-saya mo siguro. You must be so excited and tickled pink. Ingat ka, baka pagkamalan kang pink fence ng MMDA pag nakatayo ka sa EDSA. Well, at least that was the original purpose of a theatre in the olden days. Today, it's entirely different. But, the celluloid world still presents us with actors who act out roles obviously not their own, usually the exact opposite of their true character. Matutupad na rin ang pangarap mong maging isang artista, kasi isa ka namang tunay na artista. You're a natural. Why not play the role of a 'Drunken Pastor?' Sounds like a Kung-Fu movie - Drunken Master. You could be Bruce Lee's reincarnation and assume the Nom-de-Theatre 'Bruise Lie,' since you'll be performing in a theatre soon. People say I'm bitter with these posts. Siguro bisaya ang nagsabi nun. On the contrary, I'm better. I have true prosperity unlike your shallow financial and material prosperity. I know the truth, I speak the truth, and I expose the truth. As for you, you know the plan, you believe the plan, you speak the plan, but you don't live the plan. Natuklasan din ng langaw na ito that you were just too rotten to land on. For even a fly must have his own dignity in life. I wouldn't have seen it had I kept a blind eye wide open at your so-called ministry. Or shall I say, an open eye kept blind at your so-called ministry? And teachings you yourself could not even live out. You are like a pin, but without either its head or its point. Whatever. Of course I didn't forget your birthday recently. I bet you were drunk again, as usual. In fact, I wrote a special birthday greeting just for you, but I just realized I don't have your number any more so I just e-mailed it to Alcoholics Anonymous and Cheaters.Com, hoping that they would forward it to you, but just the same here goes: "Happy birthday to you! May Joy and Charity be with you today, your special day! ... May is 19, Joy is 18, and Charity 17. Oh, are they too old for you? Oh yeah, I know you like 16 year olds. One of your ever-loyal-blind-accomplice-associate pastors gave some information. Nadulas siya. Marami nang kumakanta. Pretty soon, a full choir will be singing about who you really are and who you really are not, but they're not going to be singing hymns. Neither will they be singing your favorite Hallelujahs. Instead, they'll be singing your dreaded Hala-lagot-kas. In the meantime, continue with your trainings. There's one born unto you every session. Funny how you now believe your very own lies. But you know what, you should congratulate yourself. As I write this, I'm looking at a copy of a report by a religious institution where it names some pastors and religious leaders in their watch list (past and present), and you should be proud because now you have made it in the company of Eli Soriano, Apollo Quiboloy and Father Tropa et al. Imagine, little old you in the company of big old them. I wonder, are you that snake coiled around Father Tropa's neck? There are times when sheep are better off without a shepherd. I'm speaking about one who pretends to love doing the work of shepherding. A bantay-salakay shepherd. That's why some sheep get wiser, especially if their shepherd betrays them. And most times, sheep would go far away to find a new shepherd. Remember, sheep are supposed to be dumb. But on some occasions, their IQs grow higher than their shepherd. I wonder, do you count your sheep whenever you can't sleep? I bet they don't reach a hundred, that's because they're beginning to wake up now from your hypnotic heresy, and are now starting their exodus. If counting sheep doesn't take you to slumber, try counting your empty beer bottles. I bet they're much more than a hundred. Better yet, reach right away for the bottles that still have beer in them. That would surely put you to sleep. And when you wake up the next morning, your sheep shall all be gone, and all you'll be is in the company of wolves like yourself.

(Images from http://mihaelsecen.wordpress.com/ & http://www.quizilla.com/)

PROSPERITY WITH A DARK PURPOSE - PART IX
"Ye are forgers of lies, ye are all physicians of no value." - Job 13:4

"All that is necessary for the triumph of evil is for good men to do nothing." - Edmund Burke, Irish orator, philosopher and politician, 1729-1797


The Oxford Dictionary of Foreign Words and Phrases defines the French term 'Faux-Bonhomme' as "a false good-natured man," and "a malicious or devious person who pretends to be open-hearted and good-natured." Do these descriptions remind you of someone you know? It sure does. Popular televangelist preacher Joel Osteen was named the "Most Influential Christian in America" by the Church Report, was one of Barbara Walters' "10 Most Fascinating People of 2007," and operates an extraordinarily profitable religious program that could end one day in a scandal, if he doesn't walk the straight path. Joel Osteen has not yet had major sex scandals, drug scandals or molestation scandals like someone I know, but if he's not careful, he sure could be in the list someday among Pat Robertson, Al Sharpton, Ted Haggard, Jim Bakker, Jimmy Swaggart, William Dodd, Paul Barnes, and several others too many to mention. Joel Osteen has an extremely profitable TV ministry, a massive church, $43 million a year in tithes and another $36 million a year in mailed-in donations. Now I know why Osteen is the favorite if not one of the favorite preachers of my ex-favorite preacher. Like Pastor Kevin Gerald, Osteen likes to talk more about topics such as prosperity in your life and positive thinking. Yes, somewhat like someone I know oh so well. Osteen has written two books, the second of which sold 3 million copies. His books are a top-seller at your local bookstore. It's just his regular advice on how to live a happy life that has been thought of already by other people first, "Think Positive About Yourself" and other such drivel. Somewhat like someone's prosperity message which was really plagiarized from other prosperity preachers who are really just after their own prosperity. If you're going to operate a religious scam like many scam artists we know in our community selling God and new-age garbage, at least make it look religious, like invoking the Scriptures while selling trinkets and silly items to help your body heal faster, and make your self-inflicted wounds heal even much faster. Are you a pastor or a salesman? Please don't bring dishonor to all the hardworking salesmen of the world. You cannot serve both God and money. Shouldn't you be the one who should know better? Or do you find it hard to walk your talk, right? Right. For how pitiful is the man whose prosperity starts and ends only in financial and material gain. More pitiful are his hypnotized sheep who are misled in his false teachings. In his regular trainings, a sucker is born every time this happens. He always shows off his big house. End of story. Because in other aspects of his life, he is totally bankrupt. Is that the kind of man you'd be willing to trust with your life and with the lives of your family members? It's like giving the keys of your house to an akyat-bahay gang member. That is his choice. But then again, would a pastor who was willing to leave his wife and children showcase a lie? Talk about preaching one fine day and then stepping down from the pulpit to punch your wife in the face, witnessed by your audience just because she was making faces at you. Why don't you pick someone your size, like Gloria Arroyo? In my book, a man who lays a hand at a woman to beat her up black and blue is a coward. A spineless hypocrite hiding behind a fragile wall, soon to crumble because of fear and guilt. It won't be long now until your sin catches up on you. Do you honestly think you can fool everyone all the time? Think again. You could find yourself selling fruits again, but this time only the Durian fruits whose pricks are simply at home with you, or the chico which smells like something close to your heart. Which reminds me, you do have this thing about names of people, places and objects beginning with the letter "J," don't you? Joel (Osteen), Joseph (Prince), Jeremiah (29:11), Jewry, Jigger, Judas, Japayuki, Juvenile, Jollibee, Judgment (Day), Jalosjos ... Jail? Much more than any of those names, you forgot to honor the most important "J" of all time with your behavior. How could you have forgotten HIM? Was it all worth it? Where was your so-called pastoral spirit when you were taking off your clothes with that woman in that motel room? It probably is just fine and dandy to you because some people close to you are tolerating this, and you're not going to stop until you fall flat on your face again, and this time it won't be pretty enough to talk about it in your next training sessions. But it's not a surprise that there are now much more people who agree that you should just step down from the pulpit. But clean up the filth you made first. Grow up, not literally, but morally. You owe it to all the people whose lives you have touched with your sweet-talking hypocrisy. Because, when God says, "It's payback time pastor!," all that so-called prosperity teaching you have mastered may only have the value of a Zimbabwean Dollar. By the way, the exchange rate is 1 US Dollar = 25 billion Zimbabwean Dollars. Get the message?

(Image from http://www.charlieknox.blogspot.com/)

PROSPERITY WITH A DARK PURPOSE - PART VIII
"A good name is rather to be chosen than great riches." - Proverbs 22:1

Forbidden fruits create many jams. A persistently covetous man cannot hold a position of responsibilty in the church. It is important, and often looked by many of us, that covetousness is a sin that cries out for disciplinary action (1 Corinthians 6:9,10). In God's assessment, covetousness is just as grievous in His sight as immorality and idolatry. While the latter two are obvious whenever a man indulges himself in them, covetousness is hidden in one's heart most of the time, but once in a while, it surfaces to expose the guilty man. If this happens, he should be disqualified for leadership position in church such as being a pastor. If he is pugnacious, or fails to take care of his own household, or is a drunkard, everybody in church, leaders in particular must agree to the point that he must be forfeited of his rights and privileges (and even honor) to minister. By the same token, covetousness disqualifies him, for he is meant to be generous, hospitable and loving - not lusting, and not always craving for more material things such as a big house, a new car, and perhaps to be more physical - a new mistress. And so, the church should not be lenient nor should act in haste. When a pastor shows by his lifestyle that covetousness is a characteristic of his own personality, then the church would be in a position, on the basis of 1 Corinthians 6:9,10, to take disciplinary measures against him. Sad to say, other churches would do the opposite. God has entrusted the church to judge with righteous judgement and not allow blatant and recurring sin. How many times has this happened? Count the fingers of your hand. It is of primary importance then that a minister of the church be unaccusable and irreproachable. If a blameworthy man is placed into the ministry, being in the lead, the whole church and the testimony of the gospel suffers and is brought to a poor level to that of pagans and infidels. The doctrine he preaches, prosperity and all, even though they may be sound, will be discredited. Even his self-will, being carnal, is a sign of pride and arrogance. To be steadfast in your mission is commendable, but to be stubborn in your error will lead to over-confidence, which is a denial of the very grace of God a pastor should instead be proclaiming. The arrogant man, if placed in ministry, will not think twice of making a shipwreck out of his faith and other people's faith because he is not willing to confess his faults and make amends. Also, a pastor who views some female sheep in his flock as slabs of steak or even mere morsels of meat, and indulges often in beer and wine will soon be a victim of his own vice. His mind will not be clear and lucid, as is the requirement for shepherds who are meant to watch over the health of the flock (not the wealth or vital statistics of the flock). His intellectual capacity must be clear and sharp, and a lover of wine shall never be so. A preacher whose teachings circumnavigate only on financial gain and prosperity can in no sense be a representative of Him who said, "Foxes have holes, and birds of the air have nests, but the Son of Man hath nowhere to lay His head." (Luke 9:58, Matthew 8:20). Sad to say, throughout church history, we hear of cases where promising ministries were destroyed because the preacher was given to base gain. We still hear of them to this day. Check out your neighborhood fastfood joints. They're there, short of advertising to the crowd, "Only the rich are welcome in my church. If you're poor, try the fastfood outlet next-door." A man who is fond of money is not necessarily an embezzler. But a man may join a good cause and seek the pastoral office for the sake of material advantage. Likewise, Peter warns against such: "Feed the flock of God which is among you." (1 Peter 5:2). God excludes men from the ministry who have a mercenary spirit going out in search of riches, anxious to add to his possessions regardless of whether legitimate or not, whether fair or foul. A greedy person lays his own snare, into which he will ultimately fall. Judas betrayed Christ for a paltry sum of money. It is a mystery why greedy pastors seek the ministry to enrich themselves, when there are other venues available for them like the networking business of selling new-age garbage. In conclusion, the over-all impression is the Godly and mature character of the man, all-rounded, as James says, "Perfect, lacking in nothing." He is grown-up in all aspects of life. The term "covetous" is similar to "given to filthy lucre." This concentrates more on the intent and purpose of the man to enrich himself with earthly goods. Such a person in ministry will prove dishonest and will not be able to handle the financial aspect of his calling, thus bringing disrepute upon himself and his associates. A church having annointed teachers and pastors may not be the most popular church in town. On the other hand, a popular church may also have pastors of ill-repute, whose heart is planted on earthly treasures alone. Such churches will only have the numbers. But it all ends there. Again, our Lord said, "Feed my sheep." He didn't say, "Count them." In fact, He didn't even say, "Eat them." Indeed, Artificial Intelligence is no match for Natural Stupidity.

(Image from http://www.kinnon.tv/)

PROSPERITY WITH A DARK PURPOSE - PART VII
"They are like dried-up springs, like clouds blown away by a storm. They make proud and stupid statements, and use immoral bodily lusts to trap those who are just beginning to escape from among people who live in error. They promise them freedom while they themselves are slaves of their own destructive habits." - 2 Peter 2:17-19

"Religiously Correct" Christians who run to Scripture in an attempt to flee from judgment by their fellow-Christians incorrectly maintain that only God has the right to judge and that they would rather submit themselves to God's judgment instead of man's, even though they continue in their pastor's false teachings and behavior which is really unacceptable, whichever way it is viewed. By assuming that position, they hope and pray to escape the humiliation and consequences of accountability to Christian authority, which they are more afraid of, instead of God's wrath and condemnation. They pretend to submit themselves to God's judgment, revealing that they do not really believe that God will judge them for their actions, which will definitely be more severe than any human judgment. When Scripture is mis-used in an attempt to cover or insulate false pastors and false teachers and false life-coaches, and illegal and immoral behavior from accountability to those things that are specifically condemned and prohibited in Scripture, then the very serious issues are raised, because Scripture is very specific in revealing the teaching and conduct of these individuals and stating what the consequences of their behavior will be. When supporters of false pastors and false teachers and immoral leaders believe that the Scripture can be used to cover sinful behavior, actions and doctrine on the part of their leaders, and is considered to be acceptable and tolerable, then even greater and more serious issues are raised, especially in regards to the sovereignty of God. So, who is sovereign, the man who declares immunity from sin by his own self-serving claim and the followers who defend the action of that pastor, or the God who established the standard in the Scripture and judges all? Many Christians are undiscerning in the selection of the pastors and teachers that they choose, believing that some emotional response to a religious situation or the excitement of some preacher in a training series or church service constitutes a right relationship with God, and as a consequence, they deliberately refuse to submit themselves under the authority of Scripture when applied to themselves. Sitting under the ministry of a false pastor who engages in immoral conduct or lies is preferable to facing the reality of what the Scripture teaches in relation to that preacher, because they must also apply what the Scripture teaches in their own lives. Many Christians would claim that the only proper response to immoral and illegal conduct by their pastor is not to confront it, but only to pray for those individuals. It is well that we should pray for them, but many Christians engage in pointless prayers by constantly seeking guidance, when it is already revealed in Scripture and their prayers go amiss when they continue to support and accept a leadership specifically condemned by the Scripture. Many in the Christian world claim that Christians should simply be loving, caring, accepting and tolerant with no doctrinal differences becoming an issue. They would claim that all deviant actions of their favorite pastor and drinking buddy should be forgiven and accepted with no punishment given, even when true repentance from their pastor is never expressed. On the contrary, true arrogance instead is exercised by this individual. Sadly so, it is those false pastors who are then allowed to continue in their excesses without accountability and it is those who have been deceived, abused and robbed who pay the price, and will continue to pay the price because the actions will continue. He must be exposed as his evil conduct must be stopped. Even forgiveness by God is predicated on genuine repentance by the forgiven and not forgiveness with continuation in that which is to be forgiven. Is a murderer forgiven only to be allowed to murder again? Some will be willing to accept error rather than truth, false teachings rather than correct, immorality rather than morality, illegal behavior rather than legal. These Christians defend their favorite pastor against the direct words of God and by doing so, they place themselves in the same position as their pastor, participating by assent in the same sinful actions as their pastor's, and bringing on themselves the rebuke of God which they do not even see. To accept and even defend the immoral behavior of their pastor is the same as participating in it and reveals how far many Christians distance themselves from the true authority of the Scripture in order to place themselves in a position of sovereignty over God and His commands. They adopt a backward theology, that wrong equates to right, and right equates to wrong. The same Christians who will defend their pastor when he steals from the offering plate for their own selfish indulgences, or when he impregnates a female member of the church, bring reproach on the name of Christ by his immoral behavior, steal truth from God and claim it to be falsehood, steal sovereignty from God by claiming authority which they do not have, steal the majesty of God, and steal the souls of adherents by teaching a prosperity message which is far from his lifestyle. The most heinous sin is that of the false teacher who teaches a false prosperity message. But undiscerning Christians support and defend the likes of him - who put the souls of followers in danger of hell, claiming that they wish to live peaceably with all men rather than stand for the authority of the Scripture and show true love to their brethren by speaking directly to the heresies that are a danger to their souls. They reveal the true lack of love in their character, by allowing those to continue in their false teachings and preachings, by allowing the lowest common denominator that will allow Christians to live in peace with that which is dark and false in their midst, being the support and defense of the false over the true. To the undiscerning, blind followers of this false teacher, the question must be asked, "Who do you wish to defend, the self-proclaimed false preacher that you love and adore, or the sovereign God of the universe whose commands and doctrines you deny because you support and defend that which is immoral and hypocritical?

As a reminder:

1. Scripture prohibits Lying Pastors - 1 Timothy 3:8, Titus 1:7, 2 Peter 2:3
2. Scripture prohibits Immoral Pastors - 1 Timothy 3:2, 2 Peter 2:2
3. Scripture prohibits Drunken Pastors - 1 Timothy 3:3, Titus 1:7
4. Scripture prohibits Self-Willed Pastors - 2 Peter 2:10
5. Scripture prohibits Materialistic Pastors - 1 Timothy 3:3, Titus 1:7, 2 Peter 2:3
6. Scripture prohibits Disobedient Pastors who despise authority - 2 Peter 2:10

It only takes less than an ounce of brains to figure out why one should refrain from misrepresenting one's selves by using the same church name or any similarities to that, which rightfully belongs to subject legitimate church. There is only one legal owner of that nomenclature. This is plain and simple callousness and arrogance and the offending parties may suffer the consequences - or perhaps some just have the mental capacity of a minor kitchen appliance not to know?

(Image from http://daylife.com/)

PROSPERITY WITH A DARK PURPOSE - PART VI
"Whosoever shall put away his wife, saving for the cause of fornication, causeth her to commit adultery." - Matthew 5:32

A Mormon friend once inveigled me into an argument on the issue of polygamy. After I had been beaten about the ears with long and tedious expositions justifying the Mormonic practice, the climax was capped by my friend's demand that I cite any passage in Scripture expressly forbidding polygamy, to which I simply replied, "Matthew 6:24 . . . No man can serve two masters." I have not heard from him ever since.

Three major types of extra-marital affairs are probably common to us all. The first would be the 'one-night stand,' which is made possible if a perfect mix of circumstances, hormones, secrecy and of course a consenting partner is included. This encounter is in essence a simple one-time experience, but can sometimes elevate into repeated moments, depending on the willingness of both parties. If it takes two to tango, it certainly takes two to dirty dancing. But of course, one can be held liable for such, especially if the person or persons at fault are married. And being unhappily shackled to one's spouse does not justify the felony a bit. If you believe that marriage for you is not a word but a sentence, why not try putting a period in your gallivanting lifestyle to lessen the load? Having more than one woman never makes a man more of a man. Don't jump from one's comma and then dash to another! Your reputation could lead to a big question mark, affecting further your usual problems with your digestive system which could eventually destroy your colon. An example in Scripture reminds us a kind of repentance through a single confrontation when Nathan exclaimed against David, "Thou art the man!" (2 Samuel 12:7). A second type of affair starts with a simple acquaintance, then friendship, and then elevates into a sexual level later on, based on mutual attraction and can have several emotional factors. But even if this affair can only be platonic and never sexual in nature, it is always wrong and should never be tolerated because it steals the marital relationship of strength and foundation needed for intimacy between husband and wife. This type of an affair is often operated through secrecy, deceit and lies, and the separation of this type requires a grieving time similar to that of a divorce or an annulment. When this type of a relationship shifts to a sexual level, the bonding is so close that the consenting, 'dirty dancing parties' involved will risk everything they have - families (spouse and children), careers, wealth, and even health and life just to maintain the affair. In this case, the very life of a congregation was in jeopardy, even to the extent that a death-wish to the church was confided by this individual to a very close associate. "For death and life are in the power of the tongue." (Proverbs 18:21). Again, the most appropriate Scriptural example of this type and the risks involved is the one involving Samson and Delilah. A repentance following this affair is necessary but not sufficient for recovery. Here, time is very important for healing to take place. As a pattern would now dictate, this type is always prone to repetition. And this person has repeatedly repeated this sin of his, at the expense of several individuals involved in his ministry. Statistically speaking, the chances of recurrence is very high, that therapy is needed to find out why the attraction occured in the first place. This explains now why our 'faux-bonhomme' keeps on going back to his sin, just like an askal returns to his retch. When will this end? Only he holds the answer. There must first be a willingness on his part for genuine admission and then repentance, otherwise he continues to live a life of a male harlot, a gigolo in disguise as a 'messenger of prosperity' as one who knows it, believes it and speaks it. The big question now is: Does he live it? Well, to answer that question, have chickens stop crossing streets? If a second or third or even a fourth affair follows, its duration may be short-lived and the person could very well embark on a journey towards sexual addiction which has many forms in sexual expression. This is perhaps the third type, and now becomes less fulfilling emotionally. He now jumps from paramour to paramour, house to house, subdivision to subdivision, looking for more and more fulfillment for the flesh. A walking, talking bottomless pit, his cup never overfloweth. There is now no emotional attachment in these, putting his behavior at high risk to the extent of contracting a sexually-transmitted disease whether he puts on a prophylactic on his upper head or lower head, in which case doesn't really make any distinct difference. Again, in Scripture, we are shown a type of this sexual behavior which happened in the description of Eli's sons sleeping with women involved in temple ministry (1 Samuel 2:12-25, especially verses 22-25). In this, a necessary public confession and repentance is the only start of a long journey towards self-repair. But, the individual involved in this type of extra-marital affair should never again be placed in a position of ministry. To do so would be much like permitting a paedophile teach Sunday School, allowing a compulsive gambler to work as a card-dealer in a Las Vegas casino, or tolerating a drunkard to work as a bartender in a Las Pinas cabaret, if only to prove that he is already sober, in the same way that some have allowed him to return to preaching even without cleaning him up first from his addictions. His return to ministry would definitely be a set-up for continued failure. As it is, he could be moonlighting now as a salesman for a pastor-businessman-friend of his involved in the selling of bogus body-strengthening, life-enhancing, prosperity-boosting products. Sad, but if that is true, is that his version of prosperity? You will know him by the smell of the chico fruit he bears. It reminds me of those poor teachers who even with such a noble profession, sell tocino or e-load on the side. Now we have pastors who sell 'new-age' paraphernalia on the side. May omniscient God spare them from their appointed lightning bolts.

(Image from http://www.evangelicalright.com/)

PROSPERITY WITH A DARK PURPOSE - PART V
"Woe be to the shepherds of Israel that do feed themselves! Should not the shepherds feed the flocks?" - Ezekiel 34:2


We are a nation of counterfeits. A fake president a.k.a. 'The Mole of Asia,' fake economic programs for the poor, fake DVDs peddled by the same people involved in the fake Memorandum of Agreement on Ancestral Domain (MoA-AD), fake presidential announcements like the US$10 billion standby economic package for the ASEAN from the IMF-World Bank, a fake justice secretary who sides with the influential and the opulent, and tells the oppressed to "jump in the lake," fake environmental programs to eradicate air and water pollution, fake transport lines courtesy of LTFRB officials, fake 'nationalistic messages' from an MMDA chairman who wants to be president in 2010 but can't even win the hearts of motorists who succumb to his despicable posters on EDSA each day, a fake presidential spouse who needs to change the first word of his official title from "first" to "farce," fake churches and fake pastors. It would really take a numb and insolent person to not notice the obvious reality. Could it be that all that brew he has been guzzling down like a bottomless and thirsty 8-cylinder SUV caused his numbness? After all, that is his very reason for drinking, to be numb enough to shut off the real world like a leaking faucet and slip into his fantasyland cajoling his Cinderellas. For the moment, let's change the letter 'N' from the word 'Numb' to the letter 'D.' Now that's more appropriate. You see, after this guy was slapped with the disciplinary action he deserved by the legitimate members of the church board, like a wounded puppy ran he to the 'other half' of the church seeking pity and solace, licking his wounds. These wounds are nothing but simple 'galis tuta,' for he has since grown back to become a fierce wolf ready for the next cheap kill. But a mindless one, for how can he still continue using the official church name when he is no longer connected with his former congregation? And what about the leaders of the 'other church' who allow this to be? I'm sure they are aware of such an infraction. Arrogance? Defiance? Nincompoopery perhaps? Guilt -definitely not. As a man of God, and if he still can swallow that label without choking and turning blue, the only pseudonym I can think of befitting him is 'Ichabod,' which simply means "the glory of God has departed." For if indeed they are misrepresenting themselves as a church led by this man, and if true, how can they now exist prosperously and morally if they are now tainted with a blot of illegitimacy? Pity its congregation who are unaware of the 'sinistry in ministry' courtesy of their pastor and a chosen few who are still blind to the truth. So, if it is true that this 'other church' still uses the very same name used by the legitimate church, they are in for some good old-fashioned trouble. Are they that unimaginative and disrespectful as not to take on a new name? So why not 'South Madagascar Church,' a.k.a. SMC with the motto: "Still together, still lost." Methinks the initials SMC fits the pastor well because he's surely at home with it as SMC will always remind him of San Miguel Corporation, brewers of his favorite numbing juice. I have been told by my unimpeachable source that in one occasion, a church member told his associate pastor, "Bridges have been burned. Let's build new ones," to which the latter replied, "If that is so, I will not be the first one to initiate it." Painful words from a pastor, don't you agree? One can only imagine what kind of ministry he has. So the fact is this: There is absolutely nothing now that links the legitimate church name to the illegitimate pastor and his present church and vice-versa, and whatever work he is doing today. Because under this name is only one church. No satellite church nor outreach at the moment, and any other group or groups outside this church are considered copycats and wannabes. And what if this person is caught again with 'his pants down,' so to speak, and then is fingerprinted and blottered and then introduces himself as a pastor belonging to the legitimate church? Further, I was told that the latter's board will not tolerate this for the simple reason that there's a very big chance the former may fall into the same favorite sin of his again, for such is the pattern he has sewn all these years, a tailor-fit scheme of flowery designs for the sole purpose of satisfying his lust, having no genuine repentance and a 'turning away' from the haunting sin that has caused him to hurt many who have trusted him - his close friends and associates, his trainees and members of his congregation and his own wife. To many, this was a trust given to him once and has now been interred, never to resurrect again. And so, what does a lone wolf do next if he is sent away from the pack, crocodile luggage and all? Well, he sharpens first his sense of smell, and when he picks up a scent of fresh meat, he then follows that scent leading him to the next village, now drooling and hungry. There he is met by what seems like a 'welcome reception,' a bacchanalia of sorts, and there he establishes and reinforces new bonds and deals and tells late-night bonfire stories to them of how heartlessly he has been maltreated, how beaten and bruised he has been, though self-inflicted, and how wonderful are the plans he has for them for a prosperous journey in life. He tells them to run their race together with him. What he doesn't tell them is that he wants a piggy-back ride on them towards the finish line, and just a few meters before the finish line, he jumps away from their backs and dashes to make it ahead of the rest. In some dark and evil corner of his mind, his new 'recruits' are just his next victims, and together with all the recycled and plagiarized teachings he brings is the stark and dark reality that the only prosperity he is after is his own prosperity. It's a reminder to all of us that the prophets of old viewed their lives as something to be consumed by God, whereas today's prophets view their lives as something to be enriched by God. And for him to constantly boast and brag about the number of people who attend his church, let me remind this pastor: Our Lord said, "Feed my sheep." He did not say, "Count them."

(Image from http://theugandancitizen.com/)

PROSPERITY WITH A DARK PURPOSE - PART IV
"He goeth after her straightway, as an ox goeth to the slaughter." - Proverbs 7:22

Church leaders who have been told of the immorality of their pastor and still act as if looking forward and moving forward are the only ingredients needed in forgetting the past are in for a big embarrassment and disappointment. Every issue, especially unpleasant, must have an end. A closure. Otherwise, it remains as wide as a gaping wound needing sutures or it will never heal, spreading its gangrene to the rest of the body. It's as simple as someone who is in the know of a crime being committed several times, and then approaches the felon to tell him that he has seen the criminal acts, winks at him in a sinister fashion, and then whispers that he won't tell anyone about it. The former lifts the rug while the latter sweeps the garbage towards it, all at the expense of the unsuspecting congregation. When one is focused on the preacher alone and then ends his vision there, he should soon realize and accept the cruel fact that the preacher has a good chance of being as crooked as scoliosis or as vile as our politicians. But to some, this is simply a tolerable matter. Our subject predator-pastor continues performing his favorite pastime - fooling people, next only to drinking and tinkering with gadgets he calls "the opposite sex." And sure enough, fools are born each day who later in that same day become his instant recruits. It's really so simple to test this person. Just listen carefully to what he says as a broken record plays on an on, and then look closely and you see a whole masquerade and a facade of sorts where it really is the world he lives in, and see the contrasting elements. If you ask me, I'd put my money on the duck in a cockfight rather than bet on a fellow who pretends to be anyone except himself. Freaky as it is, he really is ultimately after your soul, because if he succeeds conquering it, he can command you to do anything. And that is exactly what he has been doing to weak-willed women. After having swept everything under the rug, our predator-pastor is back in fighting form once again, drooling and all, ready to devour his next victim. Just a word of caution to his blind fanatics: when walking with him out in the open, I suggest that you step back several meters behind him. He is a candidate to be struck by lightning at any given time of the day. And yes, if it misses him, it shall defy all logic and rationale by striking at the same spot twice. You see, you could be at the wrong place at the wrong time with the wrong person. For God is angry at him and is just being patient with him, But even God runs out of patience, especially if the subject person involved is one who looks at female church members as slabs of steak or pieces of frozen meat he can thaw towards sin, and one who pretends to be an upright man of God. One who looks at you face to face with an angelic smile, and then as you turn your back, paints a mental dartboard of yourself in his lustful mind. I'm just so amazed at how he can manage to hide his tail, or how he can speak in a way that his forked-tongue may not be detected. Now I know why he always wears oversized baseball caps. His horns grow a centimeter longer each time he devours his prey - an inherent character of a ram which coincidentally is the enemy's favorite symbolic animal. So, since his spiritual padrinos and padrinas would rather punch their boy with oversized boxing gloves, applying a mock-up type of disciplinary action instead of addressing the issues point by point, describing the situation may be summed up with these words: Evil is near. Sometimes late at night when the air grows clammy and cold around us as we feel it brushing us. And all that he asks is acquiescence. Not struggle nor conflict, but acquiescence.

(Image from http://dailyillusions.com/)

PROSPERITY WITH A DARK PURPOSE - PART III
"He doeth everything immoral and staggereth like a drunkard, slipping on his own vomit." - Isaiah 19:14

Drunkenness is a serious social, health, moral and credibility problem. It breaks up families, it ruins careers, it destroys bodies and it tears friendships apart. Sometimes, it even cuts short a person's life. Today, many Christians conclude that moderation is good - but abstinence is much better, especially in view of the clear dangers inherent in drunkenness. Alcohol is a mind-altering drug that if taken frequently and repeatedly can be psychologically and physically addicting. Drinking may fall into the category of an act that is permissible, as evidenced by some church leaders, but certainly not beneficial. If questionable behavior such as drinking alcoholic beverages (like San Miguel Beer, Lites included) controls the drinker, hurts the body, numbs sensation, dulls the mind, makes one susceptible to immorality and other sins, causes harm to other people, or makes another believer stumble and fall, then such practices should be avoided and abandoned. Most times, believers, and most especially pastors and church leaders must choose to use self-restraint because this will be for the good and growth of the church. However, there are times when a pastor thinks he is indispensable, incorruptible, indisputable and unpenetrable. Instead, he goes on to penetrate other people's lives - literally and figuratively. I just had an interesting meeting with my friend who, again, had quite a mouthful to share, including the story of a helpless 15-year old girl our subject wolf molested some years back, and the equally disturbing story of a 17-year old female food attendant this drooling dog preyed on. I am told by my friend that this girl could be coming out in the open soon to tell all, and consecutively other victims as well. But that, among others more will be for future dark prosperity series. Several weeks ago, before our subject wolf was relieved from the church he prostituted, he haphazardly started a 'weekly singles meeting' aimed to tackle the usual expectations of a normal youung single adult. This sounds perfectly fine except for the fact that he had originally planned this to cater only for the young female single members of the church. The reason? He wanted to share some 'secrets' to these lasses for them to learn to deal with pressures from their boyfriends. What a perverted intention. I think this is clearly a sinister way to 'round up the sheep' and 'check them out' to see who among them would make it in his little book under the entry 'future victims.' That's why I have always believed that as real as Moslems have one God and three wives, Christians on the other hand must have three Gods (Father God, Jesus Christ and the Holy Spirit, all three in one) and only one wife. My friend goes on to share something that was a major turn-off for me. Subject wolf's original plan concerning church membership, if he had it his own way, would only be for a select group of people who would pass his criteria in economic status, financial soundness, etc. In short, if you're poor, his church doors are only a few centimeters open, thus making it impossible for you to enter, but only for your head to take a quick peek. On the other hand, if you're rich, then the doors are wide open exclusively for you with a matching red carpet and rose petals scattered all over to make you feel instantly welcome. This clearly fits perfectly with his self-serving cultish ideology that prosperity is simply just all about money and material wealth, such as numerous bank accounts, a big house (but not a home), and the latest gas-guzzling Euro-Am imports. The other blessings like a healthy body, long life, sober children (not drug addicts), a happy marriage, a good night's sleep and true friends who remind you when you're over-sinning are only secondary. Meaning, to be truly favored by the Almighty, "you need to be prosperous and rich and materially endowed, otherwise, it would be impossible for you to help others in need if you too are in lack." Now, can't the poor help the fellow-poor in several other ways besides financial dole-outs? What happens now to good deeds and neighborly love? Is this all about just money now? Yes, sad to say it is for him. He would rather rub elbows with the powerful and the wealthy instead of the unwashed and the inadequate. But not even God would be in his shoes! For in God's church, the doors are wide open 24/7 for all who wish to enter - especially the poor and the lost. In fact, not everybody is called to be rich and prosperous, otherwise, what need does man have for God if he has everything on Earth? The poor are still closest to God's pure heart, but the false teachers are somewhere under His feet. When prosperity has a dark purpose, it does not wish to know anything about God's law intended to be engraved in the hearts of all men. It does not listen to the voice of conscience and it turns against humanity and society, and to God as well. Now, on the subject matter, and if there is anyone I put my trust next only to God in all its true meaning, I put that on my grandfather, the late Jorge Bocobo, church-builder, moral crusader and author of the Civil Code of the Philippines and the entire brown race, who fervently said in one of his lay sermons, "True prosperity is worthy of honor and respect. It is living out God's will for your life....It should measure success not in terms of lands, houses, material wealth and a large bank account, but by helpfulness to others, by having rendered service to the poor, by having stood for righteousness at any cost. It fights wrong and oppression in every form." Here, he speaks of the noble and inherent character of prosperity, perhaps knowing that a few decades after, some egotistical pretender would be preaching on the other kind of prosperity - the ersatz and shallow kind he subscribes to. Well, for me, I believe that drunkenness and sexual immorality are a perpetual pair. Somewhat like a Tom and Jerry duo. One makes it easier for the other to accomplish its dark intentions. Or perhaps like the caped crusaders Batman and Robin? But our guy has no cape but a hood to conceal his true identity, a seasoned con-artist, and the best solution to this is to gag him for good, lest he misleads a multitude again to eternal damnation. Let all those concerned with this guy's well-being defend him and find solace and comfort with each other, contradicting all accusations hurled at their boy and finding them preposterous, "exaggerated and unfounded," for after all, even a felon has every right to a counsel - wise or otherwise. Remember cult leader Jim Jones and his People's Temple in Jonestown, Guyana, when after he was convinced by his dark intentions that he had a good number of blind followers who would do absolutely anything he would tell them to do? Well, that's exactly what he did soon after. The day came for him to put their fanaticism to the test, and after delivering what would be his last sermon, instructed his accomplices to distribute to everyone Dixie cups containing Kool-Aid mixed with Cyanide. He told them it was poison and that it was time for all of them, himself included to "move on to the afterlife." And soon after he gave the signal for all to drink the contents in their respective cups, close to a thousand of his fanatics (many children) were all dead in an hour. Jim Jones may be long gone, but our anonymous 'John Doe' is alive and well somewhere in Metro Manila on the prowl to recruit his own set of fanatics. Just a word of caution: next time he offers you a violet-colored drink from a styro cup in a "happy fastfood outlet," make sure it's just plain old grape juice, and not the same liquid Jim Jones concocted for his fanatics. It's really sad to know that there are still individuals who are trapped in his net but have also chosen to stay in that same place somewhat comfortably. Individuals who would rather look blindly at the preacher of the Word and would refuse to see clearly the wrongdoings of the latter, and would not do anything to correct them, for when sin is not followed by repentance, it will surely be followed by judgment. I challenge them now to look clearly at the Author of the Word instead of the preacher of the Word. Believe me, it's good medicine from God and not from some vacuous and temporary relief from an 'albularyo' pretending to be a man of God. May the very same God deliver us from the cowardice that dare not face new truths, from the laziness that is content with half-truths, and from the arrogance that thinks it knows all truth.

(Image from http://www.snreview.org/)