Past Pastor List and Questions
Overseer Ennis Tait link
03/14/2012 3:35pm
There is a misunderstanding about salvation. The question for today's "church goer" is are you really saved. Many of us also have questions about the works of the Holy Spirit. Do you have the Holy Ghost?
Anonymous
03/15/2012 1:47pm
Overseer Tait, A friend of mine and I were talking about salvation the other day. We both know people who say they are saved however they don't live a "completely" saved life style. They choose to continue to fornicate. Though they know its wrong, they don't believe that it will affect their salvation. What do you think about this mindset?
Reply Overseer Tait
03/16/2012 11:56am
Jesus talks about spiritual blindness that deals with a person's inability to see the truth and their wicked behavior. Without being judgemental, I think we must always look to scripture for the answer. Jesus says to his followers, "you shall know a tree by the fruit that it bears". The apostles Paul and Peter write to clear any misunderstanding we may have regarding our salvation in Christ and our lifestyle: (Romans 6:1-2; Galatians 5:13; and II Peter 2:18-19) Paul's final note to Timothy impresses upon the young preacher to be aware of certain behaviors in the last days among the saints. (II Timothy 3:1-5) Our challenge is to continuously prayer for their transformation. God bless!
Anonymous 2
03/16/2012 6:35pm
Overseer Tait, I was having a discuss with my mom and she always tell me "You can be the leader in the world but you have an bad attitude you no one will want to work with you". Well does that apply to the leaders of a church who has bad attitudes and behaviors? or is it ok because they are good teachers of the word??
Reply Overseer Tait
03/26/2012 11:08pm
There are no excuses for having a bad attitude, especially for people of faith. We have been blessed with the power of the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit was given to us by God to "lead us into all truth". In other words we have the spirit of God working in us, through us and on us to make us better than the world. If a person is a good teacher of the word and failing student (having trouble applying what they are teaching), then they discredit their witness. Paul speaks to this very same subject in Romans 9:27.
Anonymous
03/20/2012 8:41am
Overseer Tait, many young adults are excited about the opportunity to serve within their local temples and/or on the national level but are very discourage by older members' traditional practices. How do we move forward when others are holding us back with issues that are not salvation related?
Reply Overseer Tait
3/26/2012 11:24pm
The enemy has managed to keep the church divided by old and young saints. The word of God does not support old versus young believers. On the contrary James 1:5-6 teach us that wisdom has no prejudices. I also believe that the Holy Spirit that dwells in us lets us know when the time comes for us to step aside. Meanwhile, God is the one that does the calling. Psalms 75:6-7 talk about promotions from God. Any assignment in the church should be ordained by God. We all must be willing to submit and surrender to God's will. This means we are willing to accept HIS time and HIS way. No one can prohibit God's will from being done. However, the devil works through individuals to impede any progress that may come out of God's house of prayer.
Pastor Elbert Jones, III, a native of Memphis, Tn., is the Pastor of the Church of the Living God of Nashville (T6 Ministries). Born, August 6, 1975 to Bishop Elbert and Evang. Brenda Jones, Pastor Jones has become a source of inspiration to many young preachers and pastors. At the age of 5, Pastor Jones was called into the ministry. In 1993, he began making his steps through the historical pages of Church of the Living God. In that year he became the youngest to be ordained an Elder. 1996, He became the youngest to ever Pastor in the Church of the Living God when he accepted pastorate in Little Rock, AR at the age of 20. In 1999, Pastor Jones achieved yet another milestone by becoming the first Pastor in the history of the Church of the Living God organization to succeed a living Chief Bishop. Chief Bishop W.E. Crumes pastored Temple 51 in Cincinnati, OH for 51 years before retiring and naming Pastor Jones his successor. In 2004, Pastor Jones was appointed by Chief Bishop Robert D. Tyler as National Minister of Protocol. He became the youngest to ever serve in this office of national recognition. July 2010, Pastor Jones was appointed to the Executive Board of the Church of the Living God as the Executive Elder of the Board. On January 27, 1996 Pastor Jones married the beautiful Lady Eva Jones. Sis. Jones is an awesome woman of God. She is the daughter of Allen and Mattie James of Memphis, Tn. She is a songstress and inspiration to all. They have one son, Elbert James Jones (EJ), born September 30, 2000
Pastor Jones always says this “God could have chosen to do anything with me, yet he called me to be a preacher and for that I am grateful. There is nothing else I want to do. I take pleasure in leading God’s People and helping to change this world one person at a time.”
Lavonia 03/20/2012 9:03am
I find myself getting upset when people dont agree with my views on christianity. I have a friend who is atheist and I've gotten to the point where I won't even bring up God around him because the things he say cause me to become so upset. Will I be held accountable for not spreading the word to non believers even if it takes me to a place that I feel puts my salvation at stake?
Pastor Jones
Greetings,
It is incumbent for everyone of us that are believers in Jesus Christ to share the Gospel. Although there are times that it ibecomes a heavy task, we must continue to do so. Never let anyone however pull you to a point of chancing your own salvation. Witnessing about Jesus should never become confrontational. The Lord frowns on that, Ecclesiastes 5:6 says "Suffer not thy mouth to cause thy flesh to sin; neither say thou before the angel, that it was an error: wherefore should God be angry at thy voice, and destroy the work of thine hands?"
Also, let me suggest that witnessing is not just a word of mouth conversation but witnessing is also the life that we live. Perhaps this person can"t be reached through words but your life can witness of Jesus for you. I pray this helps you.
In His Service,Pastor Jones
Anonymous
04/10/2012 12:08pm
Hello, I have a question. What do you do when you feel like life has beat all you have left out of you? When you pray and pray and still have no relief? Why does it seem the more you pray the more things happen to you? I know that you aren't supposed to question God but he is the one with the answers.. When you have cried until there are no more tears, and feel there is no more fight left in you what do you do?
Pastor Jones Response: Greetings,
The Apostle Paul answers this myriad of questions and thought in this manner according to 2 Corinthians 4:7-10
But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellency of the power may be of God, and not of us. We are troubled on every side, yet not distressed; we are perplexed, but not in despair; Persecuted, but not forsaken; cast down, but not destroyed; Always bearing about in the body the dying of the Lord Jesus, that the life also of Jesus might be made manifest in our body. Trouble is a natural part of life that all of us must go through. However, those who know Jesus never have to deal with trouble alone. Trust and know that we are never alone in trouble and God puts us through test to strengthen us and to manifest His glory through us. King David while going through his own personal trial and hardship penned these words, Psalm 27:5-6 For in the time of trouble he shall hide me in his pavilion: in the secret of his tabernacle shall he hide me; he shall set me up upon a rock. And now shall mine head be lifted up above mine enemies round about me: therefore will I offer in his tabernacle sacrifices of joy; I will sing, yea, I will sing praises unto the LORD.
I pray this helps !!!!!
In His Service,Pastor Jones
Anonymous
04/10/2012 6:35pm
I remember a rather insightful conversation the Young Adult Mininstry hosted during the 2010 Bible Study session at the national convention pertaining to fasting. I found the scripture (1 Corinthians 7:5) that informs husbands and wives to abstain from sex when married and that daniel ate fruits and vegetables- What exactly is fasting? Are there variations of fasting in the Word? What are the "rules" (for lack of a better word- maybe guidelines..) that God sets forth pertaining to fasting?
Pastor Jones response: Greetings,
Unger's Bible Dictionary explains that the word fast in the Bible is from the Hebrew word sum, meaning "to cover" the mouth, or from the Greek word nesteuo , meaning "to abstain." For spiritual purposes, it means to go without eating and drinking for any number of consecutive hours or days. The Bible gives examples of God's people occasionally combining fasting with their prayers so as to stir up their zeal and renew their dedication and commitment to Him. King David wrote in Psalms 35:13 that he "humbled [him]self with fasting". Fasting is a means of getting our minds back on the reality that we are not self-sufficient. Fasting helps us realize just how fragile we are and how much we depend on things beyond ourselves.In both the Old and New Testaments, fasting is seen as useful for humbling oneself as a sign of commitment or repentance and for increasing faith, especially when accompanied by prayer. Fasting allowed one to be devoted to spiritual matters without distraction from earthly things. However, fasting was not to be considered an end in itself, nor a substitute for obedience to God and doing good deeds (Isaiah 58:3-10).Jesus said that fasting, like prayer, should be done in private and not for show (Matthew 6:16-18, Matthew 6:5-7). John the Baptist's disciples routinely fasted according to Jewish custom, but Jesus and His disciples did not. However, Jesus said His disciples would mourn and fast after He had left them (Matthew 9:14-15; Mark 2:18-20; Luke 5:33-35). The early Christians practiced fasting at least occasionally (Acts 13:3, 14:23, 2 Corinthians 6:5, 11:27).
I pray this helps. (Note: please reference each of the scriptures I noted for your personal study)
Concerned
04/17/2012 5:25pm
Hello,
I know people who seek advice from pastors and come out even more confused than before they went to seek help. Most times when preachers give advice they always go through the scriptures. What about the people who don't really understand how to decipher what the scripture is saying. Or they feel like this isn't necessarily enough for them?
Pastor Jones My response:
Greetings, I will answer this question in this manner. Every profession has a reference book that guides them in the knowledge of their trade. The Dr. refers to a medical guide, the Lawyer refers to books of law, thus the preacher/pastor has no other option than to refer to the book that they are trained and governed by. The Word of God is the greatest source to help anyone as the battle crisis of life......I pray this helps
In His Service,Pastor Elbert Jones
Pastor Jones always says this “God could have chosen to do anything with me, yet he called me to be a preacher and for that I am grateful. There is nothing else I want to do. I take pleasure in leading God’s People and helping to change this world one person at a time.”
Lavonia 03/20/2012 9:03am
I find myself getting upset when people dont agree with my views on christianity. I have a friend who is atheist and I've gotten to the point where I won't even bring up God around him because the things he say cause me to become so upset. Will I be held accountable for not spreading the word to non believers even if it takes me to a place that I feel puts my salvation at stake?
Pastor Jones
Greetings,
It is incumbent for everyone of us that are believers in Jesus Christ to share the Gospel. Although there are times that it ibecomes a heavy task, we must continue to do so. Never let anyone however pull you to a point of chancing your own salvation. Witnessing about Jesus should never become confrontational. The Lord frowns on that, Ecclesiastes 5:6 says "Suffer not thy mouth to cause thy flesh to sin; neither say thou before the angel, that it was an error: wherefore should God be angry at thy voice, and destroy the work of thine hands?"
Also, let me suggest that witnessing is not just a word of mouth conversation but witnessing is also the life that we live. Perhaps this person can"t be reached through words but your life can witness of Jesus for you. I pray this helps you.
In His Service,Pastor Jones
Anonymous
04/10/2012 12:08pm
Hello, I have a question. What do you do when you feel like life has beat all you have left out of you? When you pray and pray and still have no relief? Why does it seem the more you pray the more things happen to you? I know that you aren't supposed to question God but he is the one with the answers.. When you have cried until there are no more tears, and feel there is no more fight left in you what do you do?
Pastor Jones Response: Greetings,
The Apostle Paul answers this myriad of questions and thought in this manner according to 2 Corinthians 4:7-10
But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellency of the power may be of God, and not of us. We are troubled on every side, yet not distressed; we are perplexed, but not in despair; Persecuted, but not forsaken; cast down, but not destroyed; Always bearing about in the body the dying of the Lord Jesus, that the life also of Jesus might be made manifest in our body. Trouble is a natural part of life that all of us must go through. However, those who know Jesus never have to deal with trouble alone. Trust and know that we are never alone in trouble and God puts us through test to strengthen us and to manifest His glory through us. King David while going through his own personal trial and hardship penned these words, Psalm 27:5-6 For in the time of trouble he shall hide me in his pavilion: in the secret of his tabernacle shall he hide me; he shall set me up upon a rock. And now shall mine head be lifted up above mine enemies round about me: therefore will I offer in his tabernacle sacrifices of joy; I will sing, yea, I will sing praises unto the LORD.
I pray this helps !!!!!
In His Service,Pastor Jones
Anonymous
04/10/2012 6:35pm
I remember a rather insightful conversation the Young Adult Mininstry hosted during the 2010 Bible Study session at the national convention pertaining to fasting. I found the scripture (1 Corinthians 7:5) that informs husbands and wives to abstain from sex when married and that daniel ate fruits and vegetables- What exactly is fasting? Are there variations of fasting in the Word? What are the "rules" (for lack of a better word- maybe guidelines..) that God sets forth pertaining to fasting?
Pastor Jones response: Greetings,
Unger's Bible Dictionary explains that the word fast in the Bible is from the Hebrew word sum, meaning "to cover" the mouth, or from the Greek word nesteuo , meaning "to abstain." For spiritual purposes, it means to go without eating and drinking for any number of consecutive hours or days. The Bible gives examples of God's people occasionally combining fasting with their prayers so as to stir up their zeal and renew their dedication and commitment to Him. King David wrote in Psalms 35:13 that he "humbled [him]self with fasting". Fasting is a means of getting our minds back on the reality that we are not self-sufficient. Fasting helps us realize just how fragile we are and how much we depend on things beyond ourselves.In both the Old and New Testaments, fasting is seen as useful for humbling oneself as a sign of commitment or repentance and for increasing faith, especially when accompanied by prayer. Fasting allowed one to be devoted to spiritual matters without distraction from earthly things. However, fasting was not to be considered an end in itself, nor a substitute for obedience to God and doing good deeds (Isaiah 58:3-10).Jesus said that fasting, like prayer, should be done in private and not for show (Matthew 6:16-18, Matthew 6:5-7). John the Baptist's disciples routinely fasted according to Jewish custom, but Jesus and His disciples did not. However, Jesus said His disciples would mourn and fast after He had left them (Matthew 9:14-15; Mark 2:18-20; Luke 5:33-35). The early Christians practiced fasting at least occasionally (Acts 13:3, 14:23, 2 Corinthians 6:5, 11:27).
I pray this helps. (Note: please reference each of the scriptures I noted for your personal study)
Concerned
04/17/2012 5:25pm
Hello,
I know people who seek advice from pastors and come out even more confused than before they went to seek help. Most times when preachers give advice they always go through the scriptures. What about the people who don't really understand how to decipher what the scripture is saying. Or they feel like this isn't necessarily enough for them?
Pastor Jones My response:
Greetings, I will answer this question in this manner. Every profession has a reference book that guides them in the knowledge of their trade. The Dr. refers to a medical guide, the Lawyer refers to books of law, thus the preacher/pastor has no other option than to refer to the book that they are trained and governed by. The Word of God is the greatest source to help anyone as the battle crisis of life......I pray this helps
In His Service,Pastor Elbert Jones
Overseer Matthew Townsend
Overseer Matthew Townsend was born in Pensacola, Fl. He received his formal education from Southern University in Baton Rouge, LA. He attended Southern on a football scholarship and received his bachelor’s degree in Marketing. He successfully graduated from the USDA Graduate School’s Leadership program in 2004.
Overseer Townsend has served the church in many different capacities over the years. These positions include: chairman of the trustee board, Y.P.P.U. Advisor, praise team member, mass choir member, drummer, Christian Education Teacher and Assistant Pastor. District Service includes: Vice President of the Ministerial Board, Assistant manager and member of the 9th District Chorus.
He was ordained as an Elder during the National Convention in August 2003 in Washington D.C. and he was appointed as a pastor of the Church of the Living God Temple # 42 in Pascagoula MS on July 31st 2005 during the National Convention in Atlanta, GA, where he continues to serve today.
He was appointed to his current position of Overseer of the Ninth Episcopal District of the Church of the Living God C.W.F.F. during the National Convention in St. Louis, MO.
One of his favorite scriptures is “Let your light shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father which is in heaven.” Matthew 5:16
Overseer Matthew Townsend was born in Pensacola, Fl. He received his formal education from Southern University in Baton Rouge, LA. He attended Southern on a football scholarship and received his bachelor’s degree in Marketing. He successfully graduated from the USDA Graduate School’s Leadership program in 2004.
Overseer Townsend has served the church in many different capacities over the years. These positions include: chairman of the trustee board, Y.P.P.U. Advisor, praise team member, mass choir member, drummer, Christian Education Teacher and Assistant Pastor. District Service includes: Vice President of the Ministerial Board, Assistant manager and member of the 9th District Chorus.
He was ordained as an Elder during the National Convention in August 2003 in Washington D.C. and he was appointed as a pastor of the Church of the Living God Temple # 42 in Pascagoula MS on July 31st 2005 during the National Convention in Atlanta, GA, where he continues to serve today.
He was appointed to his current position of Overseer of the Ninth Episcopal District of the Church of the Living God C.W.F.F. during the National Convention in St. Louis, MO.
One of his favorite scriptures is “Let your light shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father which is in heaven.” Matthew 5:16
Question
Anonymous
04/20/2012 1:43pm
Some friends and I recently had a friendly debate about how we as believers entertain ourselves. The question was whether or not t.v. programs (reality shows), Hip-Hop, R&B has an effect on our spirit. It seems like the things we enjoy to sit back and relax and watch or listen to is drenched in sin, and we know who the father of sin is. What are your thoughts?
Overseer Townsend Response
We as children of God face this dynamic everyday along this christain journey; navigating through this present world while keeping our eyes fixed on our ultimate destiny, which is to be with our Father in heaven. Within ourselves this is an impossible task. But we have the Word of God which is lamp unto our feet and a light unto our path (Psalm 119:105) and the Holy Spirit who will guide us into all truths (John 16:13).
We need to remember the following:
1. Who we are: You are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a peculiar people (His own special people) that ye should show forth the praises of him who has called you out of darkness into his marvelous light (In all things including what we view as entertainment). (1 Peter 2:9)
2. Who our enemy is: Be sober and vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about (through digital airways both video and audio) seeking whom he may devour. (1 Peter 5:8)
3. Where we want to be found standing: know ye not that the friendship of the world is eminity with God? whosoever therefore will be a friend of the world is the enemy of God. (James 4:4)
So as the world and the prince of this world attempts to bombard us with the things of this world I encourage you to remember the words of Paul in Romans 12:1-2: I beseech you therefore brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God,
which is your reasonable service. And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye my prove what is that good and perfect will of God.
We have to be careful what we allow ourselves to relax in because when we relax our guard is relaxed too. Our true place of rest and relaxation is walking in the will of God.
Showers of Blessings!
Overseer Townsend: Words of Encouragement
05/17/2012
Psalm 48:1 Great is the Lord and greatly to be praised in the city of our God, in the mountain of his holiness. God is greatly to be praise for he is God. There is nothing greater, no problem, situation, obstacle, nothing- no thing! Praise is the weapon to use against the obstacle no matter what it may be. Why praise? Because our God is greater! When we praise Him we magnify Him and not the situation. So today Praise our Great God!
Anonymous
05/18/2012 9:10am
Hello Overseer, a friend and I were doing a study on what the bible says about women as pastors. Is it acceptable for women to be pastors, preachers, teachers, etc?
Overseer Townsend Response
This is a topic that has been debated in the church over the years and continues to be today. There are those that are against women holding the position of pastor /teacher or serving in roles of authority. This position is based on 1 Timothy 2:11-14 which states," Let the woman learn in silence with all subjection. But I suffer not a woman to teach, nor usurp authority over the man, but to be in silence. For Adam was first formed, then Eve. And Adam was not deceived, but the woman being deceived was in the transgression. Those who are opposed to this perspective sight the following objections:- Paul was restricting first century women because they were typically not priviledged to have a formal education.- Another argument is that all text has a context and this letter was written to Timothy to address issues specific to and only to the church in Ephesus.- Others sight that women have held positions of leadership in the Bible specifically Miriam(sister to Moses and Aaron) , Deborah (Judge) and Huldah (Prophet). The New Testament mentions women in positions of leadership sighting Priscilla and Phoebe. Pricilla is presented as a faithful minister and Phoebe as a deaconess of the church in Cenchrea. Euodia and Syntyche were described as "true yokefellow" who labored with Paul in the advancement of the gospel. Presently we as a church have been blessed with pastors/teachers and evangelists who have labored in the advancement of the gospel. If this criteria set by Paul in Philippians 4:2-3 is the determining factor then they are worthy of being described as "true yokefellow". John 16:13 states that when the Spirit of thrth is come, he will guide us into all truth. I encourage you and your friend to continue to seek the Lord in this matter as well as all matters. His promise is that He will be our guide.
ovsrT9
Anonymous
05/21/2012 9:29am
How do we as young adults fully understand our purpose and learn to walk in the will of God?
04/20/2012 1:43pm
Some friends and I recently had a friendly debate about how we as believers entertain ourselves. The question was whether or not t.v. programs (reality shows), Hip-Hop, R&B has an effect on our spirit. It seems like the things we enjoy to sit back and relax and watch or listen to is drenched in sin, and we know who the father of sin is. What are your thoughts?
Overseer Townsend Response
We as children of God face this dynamic everyday along this christain journey; navigating through this present world while keeping our eyes fixed on our ultimate destiny, which is to be with our Father in heaven. Within ourselves this is an impossible task. But we have the Word of God which is lamp unto our feet and a light unto our path (Psalm 119:105) and the Holy Spirit who will guide us into all truths (John 16:13).
We need to remember the following:
1. Who we are: You are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a peculiar people (His own special people) that ye should show forth the praises of him who has called you out of darkness into his marvelous light (In all things including what we view as entertainment). (1 Peter 2:9)
2. Who our enemy is: Be sober and vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about (through digital airways both video and audio) seeking whom he may devour. (1 Peter 5:8)
3. Where we want to be found standing: know ye not that the friendship of the world is eminity with God? whosoever therefore will be a friend of the world is the enemy of God. (James 4:4)
So as the world and the prince of this world attempts to bombard us with the things of this world I encourage you to remember the words of Paul in Romans 12:1-2: I beseech you therefore brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God,
which is your reasonable service. And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye my prove what is that good and perfect will of God.
We have to be careful what we allow ourselves to relax in because when we relax our guard is relaxed too. Our true place of rest and relaxation is walking in the will of God.
Showers of Blessings!
Overseer Townsend: Words of Encouragement
05/17/2012
Psalm 48:1 Great is the Lord and greatly to be praised in the city of our God, in the mountain of his holiness. God is greatly to be praise for he is God. There is nothing greater, no problem, situation, obstacle, nothing- no thing! Praise is the weapon to use against the obstacle no matter what it may be. Why praise? Because our God is greater! When we praise Him we magnify Him and not the situation. So today Praise our Great God!
Anonymous
05/18/2012 9:10am
Hello Overseer, a friend and I were doing a study on what the bible says about women as pastors. Is it acceptable for women to be pastors, preachers, teachers, etc?
Overseer Townsend Response
This is a topic that has been debated in the church over the years and continues to be today. There are those that are against women holding the position of pastor /teacher or serving in roles of authority. This position is based on 1 Timothy 2:11-14 which states," Let the woman learn in silence with all subjection. But I suffer not a woman to teach, nor usurp authority over the man, but to be in silence. For Adam was first formed, then Eve. And Adam was not deceived, but the woman being deceived was in the transgression. Those who are opposed to this perspective sight the following objections:- Paul was restricting first century women because they were typically not priviledged to have a formal education.- Another argument is that all text has a context and this letter was written to Timothy to address issues specific to and only to the church in Ephesus.- Others sight that women have held positions of leadership in the Bible specifically Miriam(sister to Moses and Aaron) , Deborah (Judge) and Huldah (Prophet). The New Testament mentions women in positions of leadership sighting Priscilla and Phoebe. Pricilla is presented as a faithful minister and Phoebe as a deaconess of the church in Cenchrea. Euodia and Syntyche were described as "true yokefellow" who labored with Paul in the advancement of the gospel. Presently we as a church have been blessed with pastors/teachers and evangelists who have labored in the advancement of the gospel. If this criteria set by Paul in Philippians 4:2-3 is the determining factor then they are worthy of being described as "true yokefellow". John 16:13 states that when the Spirit of thrth is come, he will guide us into all truth. I encourage you and your friend to continue to seek the Lord in this matter as well as all matters. His promise is that He will be our guide.
ovsrT9
Anonymous
05/21/2012 9:29am
How do we as young adults fully understand our purpose and learn to walk in the will of God?
Elder Joe L. Rawls, Jr.
From Decatur, Illinois
Pastor Temple #347 Paris Tennessee
Children Jeremy and Synthia; he is also the Grandfather of two.
Favorite Scripture Proverbs 11:30: The fruit of the righteous is a tree of life; and he that winneth souls is wise.
Brief Bio:
Elder Rawls moved to Paris from Peoria, Illinois COTLG #130 where Vice Chief Bishop Leroy Smith, Jr was the pastor. He started ministry in Nashville, Tn, under Overseer Robert R. Reeves. "In all that I do, I aim to please God with my service and devotion to Him." - Elder Rawls
From Decatur, Illinois
Pastor Temple #347 Paris Tennessee
Children Jeremy and Synthia; he is also the Grandfather of two.
Favorite Scripture Proverbs 11:30: The fruit of the righteous is a tree of life; and he that winneth souls is wise.
Brief Bio:
Elder Rawls moved to Paris from Peoria, Illinois COTLG #130 where Vice Chief Bishop Leroy Smith, Jr was the pastor. He started ministry in Nashville, Tn, under Overseer Robert R. Reeves. "In all that I do, I aim to please God with my service and devotion to Him." - Elder Rawls
Anonymous
10/18/2012 9:27 am
Hello Pastor, What type of encouragement would you give young adults who are sturuggling to "turn the other cheek" when people disrespect or abuse them? People can be so cruel these days and it can get hard to walk away and love them anyway.
Reply Elder Rawls
10/20/2012 2:36 pm
We live in a day and time where disrespect is rampant, and seems almost to be the norm. But we have to remember who we are in Christ, and who we belong to. I would encourage people who encounter any type of disrespect to always do what Jesus said for us to do. He said in Matthew 5:44 "Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you". Jesus encountered lots of disrespect from others, but He remained true to what His mission and purpose was. We must always strive to be like Jesus.
Quinnica Odom
10/21/2012 3:13 pm
Elder Rawls,
I am a young lady who is very active in the church. I attend church every Sunday and Wednesday. I teach Children's Church and am also an officer/sponsor for our temple Y.P.P.U., as well as a District YAM Rep. I continuously try to do the right thing and keep pushing forward, however there are times when i feel "WORN OUT". There are Sunday's when i just do not want to go to church BUT i still get up and push. Then when i get there im just ready to go, my mind is everywhere but where it should be. This is not often but it does happen. What advice can you give me to keep renewed and want to be in church every Sunday and keep my run-away thoughts focused.
Anonymous
I'm young adult who has been struggling with my sexuality since I was young. At the age 17 I contracted HIV, then I gave up all hope of ever being married and having a family. Recently I broke up with my partner and haven't sex with man or woman in almost a year. I still get evil stares and whispers from people in church that call themselves Christians. Although I've done everything possible to stay away from the homosexual activity, I still have mental breakdowns, and night mares. Sometimes I wanna go back to the lifestyle cause I don't feel loved and feel like the world its against me. Pastor what do I do???
Greetings,
There are times that all of us struggle with something. Paul said that we all sin and come short of the Glory of God. What you need to do is what all of do when we sin, and that is to ask God for forgiveness for the sin in your life. You can never expect to receive fairness from some people, even in the church. What you must do is what the Psalmist declared in Psalms 121:1-2 which says "I will lift up mine eyes unto the hills, from whence cometh my help. My help cometh from the Lord, which made heaven and earth." God can and will help you in any situation, but you must be willing to turn away from the sin in your life. Whatever your struggle is, God is able to help you, and deliver you from the struggles in your life, when you trust in Him. Going back to the 'lifestyle' you once knew will only make it harder for you to come out of and away from it. Trust in God with all of your heart, and lean not to your own understanding. Know that God will make a way of escape, if you truly want it! Position yourself around people who love you and want the best for you, and will pray for you and with you. All of us have a story, and apparently you are no different. Know that what the devil meant for your bad, God can turn it around for your good.
Integrity comes when character is tested; keep true and never be ashamed of doing what is right!
Joe L. Rawls, Jr.
10/18/2012 9:27 am
Hello Pastor, What type of encouragement would you give young adults who are sturuggling to "turn the other cheek" when people disrespect or abuse them? People can be so cruel these days and it can get hard to walk away and love them anyway.
Reply Elder Rawls
10/20/2012 2:36 pm
We live in a day and time where disrespect is rampant, and seems almost to be the norm. But we have to remember who we are in Christ, and who we belong to. I would encourage people who encounter any type of disrespect to always do what Jesus said for us to do. He said in Matthew 5:44 "Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you". Jesus encountered lots of disrespect from others, but He remained true to what His mission and purpose was. We must always strive to be like Jesus.
Quinnica Odom
10/21/2012 3:13 pm
Elder Rawls,
I am a young lady who is very active in the church. I attend church every Sunday and Wednesday. I teach Children's Church and am also an officer/sponsor for our temple Y.P.P.U., as well as a District YAM Rep. I continuously try to do the right thing and keep pushing forward, however there are times when i feel "WORN OUT". There are Sunday's when i just do not want to go to church BUT i still get up and push. Then when i get there im just ready to go, my mind is everywhere but where it should be. This is not often but it does happen. What advice can you give me to keep renewed and want to be in church every Sunday and keep my run-away thoughts focused.
Anonymous
I'm young adult who has been struggling with my sexuality since I was young. At the age 17 I contracted HIV, then I gave up all hope of ever being married and having a family. Recently I broke up with my partner and haven't sex with man or woman in almost a year. I still get evil stares and whispers from people in church that call themselves Christians. Although I've done everything possible to stay away from the homosexual activity, I still have mental breakdowns, and night mares. Sometimes I wanna go back to the lifestyle cause I don't feel loved and feel like the world its against me. Pastor what do I do???
Greetings,
There are times that all of us struggle with something. Paul said that we all sin and come short of the Glory of God. What you need to do is what all of do when we sin, and that is to ask God for forgiveness for the sin in your life. You can never expect to receive fairness from some people, even in the church. What you must do is what the Psalmist declared in Psalms 121:1-2 which says "I will lift up mine eyes unto the hills, from whence cometh my help. My help cometh from the Lord, which made heaven and earth." God can and will help you in any situation, but you must be willing to turn away from the sin in your life. Whatever your struggle is, God is able to help you, and deliver you from the struggles in your life, when you trust in Him. Going back to the 'lifestyle' you once knew will only make it harder for you to come out of and away from it. Trust in God with all of your heart, and lean not to your own understanding. Know that God will make a way of escape, if you truly want it! Position yourself around people who love you and want the best for you, and will pray for you and with you. All of us have a story, and apparently you are no different. Know that what the devil meant for your bad, God can turn it around for your good.
Integrity comes when character is tested; keep true and never be ashamed of doing what is right!
Joe L. Rawls, Jr.