Bishop Edward Stephens after finishing his morning sermon on Sunday told his members not to listen to my radio program concerning preachers who fleece their flocks,and then told the members that on the second Sunday in February the church will be celebrating its anniversary and he wants them to make a sacrifice offering of their whole salary for that week.
Sources within the church who listen everyday to my show state that members just looked at each other without the usual "Amen Bishop" shouts. Some members wonder how in these hard financial times their pastor could ask them to give up a whole weeks pay to the church without telling them what the money is being given for.
While the members of Golden Gate Cathedral a church rumored to have been built with money from jailed drug dealer Skinny Pimp will miss paying bills if they are stupid enough to follow their pastor's wishes,Stephens will not be reduced to giving up his very lavish lifestyle which has been provided him by the members he's trying to fleece.
Stephens drives a Bentley and lives in a $1,207,500 home located at 973 E. Timberlake Dr. And owns another home at 9386 Forest Station in Collierville valued at $566,000. Hopefully the members of Golden Gate will take the shears out of the hands of this pulpit pimp who has clearly fleeced them. By the way he passed out a form ( which I will post tonight after I received it from one of his members) asking them if they would like to have a ATM machine placed in the lobby.
Property Location and Owner Information
Parcel ID:
D0215 00385
Property Address:
976 E TIMBERLAKE DR
Municipal Jurisdiction:
UNINCORP
Neighborhood Number:
00611A01
Land Square Footage:
174240
Acres:
4.0000
Lot Dimensions:
4.0AC 419.74X799.15 IRR
Subdivision Name:
WOODLAND LAKE ESTATES (UNREC)
Subdivision Lot Number:
11
Plat Book and Page:
Number of Improvements:
1
Owner Name:
STEPHENS EDWARD & BEVERLY
In Care Of:
Owner Address:
976 TIMBERLAKE DR E
Owner City/State/Zip:
CORDOVA, TN 38018
2008 Appraisal and Assessment Information
Class:
RESIDENTIAL
Land Appraisal:
$ 87,100
Building Appraisal:
$ 1,120,400
Total Appraisal:
$ 1,207,500
Total Assessment:
$ 301,875
Greenbelt Land:
$ 0
Homesite Land:
$ 0
Homesite Building:
$ 0
Greenbelt Appraisal:
$ 0
Greenbelt Assessment:
$ 0
Click Here for 2007 Values
View: GIS PARCEL MAP
Dwelling Construction Information
Stories:
2.0
Exterior Walls:
STUCCO
Land Use:
- SINGLE FAMILY
Year Built:
1990
Total Rooms:
11
Bedrooms:
4
Bathrooms:
4
Half Baths:
1
Basement Type:
PART=25-75%
Heat:
CENTRAL A/C AND HEAT
Fuel:
NOT APPLICABLE
Heating System:
NOT APPLICABLE
Fireplace Masonry:
0
Fireplace Pre-Fab:
2
Ground Floor Area:
4571
Total Living Area:
7970
Car Parking:
FRAME GARAGE
Property Location and Owner Information
Parcel ID:
D0257T A00014
Property Address:
9386 FOREST STATION CV
Municipal Jurisdiction:
UNINCORP
Neighborhood Number:
00912B07
Land Square Footage:
104544
Acres:
2.4000
Lot Dimensions:
2.04 AC 88862 SF 217 X 408
Subdivision Name:
THE LAKES OF FOREST HILL 2ND ADD PH 1-3
Subdivision Lot Number:
14
Plat Book and Page:
214-29
Number of Improvements:
1
Owner Name:
STEPHENS EDWARD H & BEVERLY C
In Care Of:
Owner Address:
9386 FOREST STATION CV
Owner City/State/Zip:
COLLIERVILLE, TN 38017 3313
2008 Appraisal and Assessment Information
Class:
RESIDENTIAL
Land Appraisal:
$ 81,900
Building Appraisal:
$ 485,000
Total Appraisal:
$ 566,900
Total Assessment:
$ 141,725
Greenbelt Land:
$ 0
Homesite Land:
$ 0
Homesite Building:
$ 0
Greenbelt Appraisal:
$ 0
Greenbelt Assessment:
$ 0
Click Here for 2007 Values
View: GIS PARCEL MAP
Dwelling Construction Information
Stories:
1.2
Exterior Walls:
BRICK VENEER
Land Use:
- SINGLE FAMILY
Year Built:
1999
Total Rooms:
12
Bedrooms:
5
Bathrooms:
4
Half Baths:
1
Basement Type:
NONE
Heat:
CENTRAL A/C AND HEAT
Fuel:
GAS
Heating System:
CENTRAL HEAT/AIR UNIT
Fireplace Masonry:
1
Fireplace Pre-Fab:
1
Ground Floor Area:
4013
Total Living Area:
5458
Car Parking:
BRICK GARAGE
129 comments:
Is this man crazy or what? With finances being as tight as they are and some people aren't even working, how could he even fix his mouth to ask his members to do that? If they are crazy enough to do that...they need to have a psychiatric evaluation. I don't know whats wrong with a lot of these Pastors now days. Some of them try to use "The Lord" as a way of getting money as well as other things from their members.
The sad part is that some of his "sheep" will do it.
I would give him my salary for a week. I sure nuff would, I would give him the exact change that's printed on my check after the dollar amount! This is plain greed, plain greed how much is he giving his church members for theirs? Not a doggone dime.
He, and all this crazy information on everyone needs to be stopped. They are ALL in the same boat with this. Greed!
That is a shame if this guy has asked his memebers to do this. he should be tared and feathered.that would be out right PIMPING!!!!!!!
That's the way to go ED... "seek and ye shall find, ask and ye shall receive!"
Tell'em Ed... WC Fields and PT Barumn ain't got shit on you!
Fools are born every day! Damn... putting the ATM in the church lobby gets my vote for the best 21st Century idea so far.
Do you think you can get your members to do "automatic checking deductions or credit cards" next?
If so, I'm gonna get myself a "bailout bank loan" an open myself a Sunday pimp bank!!! Damn!
ATm in the church lobby,,Thats a great Idea.
Perhaps a check advance and cash for car title booth would be nice too.
Plasma Collection Center also might work.
Thad,
It should be against the law for people to be flim-flammed in this manner.
If it takes so much humility to get into heaven, where are these rich preachers going?
Don't these folks know that you can't buy your way into heaven?
I'll bet the church has allowed him to put all this property in his name. When he goes to jail, they've got to buy all this stuff again for the next preacher. While his wife and "Jodie' enjoy the church's money.
There has to be some educated folk in that church. Damn!
Its hard to believe a pastor would ask his flock to give up a whole paycheck when over 90% of Americans are living paycheck to paycheck. Would he pay their bills if they get behind after giving up their paychecks? Whats the deal with this fellow? Do anyone has any information on him that would qualify him as being psychotic or damn right foolish. I wonder what members would do these things and justify their actions. This cant be true Thaddeus please tell me this man really did not say such things, please ask the members to call into your radio show and say it, this is something i have to hear because i will be the first to protest in front of his church if he don't have some logical reason for asking our poor people to give up their damn money for a cause like helping others when they are the ones that need all the fanancial help they are the poor. What part dont this pastor understands.
There is nothing wrong with these preachers.
The problems and solution lies with the members that make a decision to do what they say.
Just say no!
Wow! This is totally amazing that greed, outright selfishness and total disregard for others is so rampant in the ministerial community.
What you don't know is that the ministers pay no income taxes and neither do the churches. That is grossly unfair to all of us taxpayers.
I agree 8:34, but they believe they are to support and listen to their follower (pastor). I understand the bills need to be paid at the church but not their car notes. I thought preaching the word was a voluntary basis in which they keep their jobs and devote their sundays to the church. Im so lost can someone please explain the role of the preacher. Im far from dumb, and attend church myself. I am a morman and proud of it and only pay my 10% and see my 10% go out to church members in need and our bishops are appointed and dont receive a dime of our money yet we still able to send our missionaries out to preach the word of God. I am an african american and have strong faith in my church and never experience the negative attitudes in my church as I experience in other churchs that i grew up in.
Shoots....Next, they won't be passing around a collection plate anymore....they'll be passing around a credit card swiper instead, LOL.......Saying, "Did it go through?" "Naw, swipe it again." In the meantime the choir would have done three selections by the time this process is done. LOL
"PIMP DADDY PROTESTANT PREACHERS" at it's best.
What can you say?
The worse part is the dumb ass memebers who will actually give. The have been programmed to believe that having more and doing more(house, cars, clothes)means you are Blessed. So like dumb asses they live their life trying to "keep up with Jones" thinking it will prove to others that they are Blessed.
It doesn't mean your Blessed, it means your ignorant not to mention INSECURE, that you chose to sell your soul to the DEVIL.
Thad,
This is absolutely ridiculous. I believe in the power of prayer and the power of the Lord. However, I don't believe in keeping these preacher's pockets fat. I live in Mississippi and my sister and her husband are being fleeced. Their preacher is a millionaire. He owns an expensive home and nice cars. If I'm not mistaking, he's the owner of several business. My sister only has a high school diploma and her husband has no diploma. They give $100.00 every Sunday. Maybe that's not a lot to many people, but that's a lot to me. They live in a trailor and he works when called, because he's a carpenter. What a lot of these preachers are doing is Satan's work and not God's. They've tricked poor people into believing that you can buy your way into heaven. I can say one thing for the black man. He struck gold when he hit the pulpit. They control the constituents, community and of course the black politicians. Have you ever noticed that the one's with the voice in the church are the financially prominent. My uncle is a lawyer and he's a power player in our church.
This is a prime example of
the problems in the negro
community. Give your check
to a scam artist just because he asks for it instead of paying your bills. When was the last time your church helped when you or someone you know was in a bind. I'm
going to get some shineola
and a mail order degree. I want in on this SCAM.
WAKE UP PEOPLE..
It must have been a "Full Gospel"thing because as I attended a "Full Gospel" church yesterday, the Pastor kept hammering the Congregation about Tithes and Offerings. Going so far as to have Tithers stand. I have no idea to what this was about. One day we are Baptist, then the next "Full Gospel and I don't know what's next. Thats why I read for "MYSELF" and knowing that its all about YOU HAVING a PERSONAL relationship with CHRIST and with that comes COMMON SENSE.
Thad, I was so disgusted by the fact that some of these local preachers are using their tax-exempt status to enrich themselves that I contacted the U.S. Senate Finance Committee to file a complaint. If any one else wants to file a complaint they can call the Senate Finance Committee at 202-224-4515. The young man said that the investigation in the use of how some of these preachers are using their tax-exempt status is still going on. I let him know that a lot preachers here in Memphis needs to be looked at. So hopefully some of these preachers will be investigated. You know Thad if a preacher would of asked me to give up a whole week's pay, I would of got up and walked out. It is a shame how some of our people are so easily mislead.
BOY,WHAT A RACKET,
LOOKS LIKE ALL OVER THIS COUNTRY,THESE PREACHER PIMPS ARE PROVING BEYOND A DOUBT THAT THAY ARE THE LOWEST OF THE LOW.
THE FEDS SHOULD HAVE TAKEN STEVENS ASS AND SOME MORE OF THEM CROOKS WITH "SKINNIE PIMP" INSTEAD OF HIDEING THIER RECORD..
IN HELL WILL THEY LIFT UP THIER EYES.
Thad,
All I have to say is that thieving, pulpit-pimping, greedy, S.O.B. better have some money saved for Skinny Pimp when he gets out of prison! I can't wait for his return and the showdown or it may be a smackdown!!!!!!!
If the people who continue to indulge this madness do the minister's bidding, give their whole weekly earnings, and remain mere head-nodders to his sermons instead of doing God's real work, then I don't blame the minister for what he scores from it.
Remember, this is America: where capitalism is king, everything(including salvation) is for sale, and the almighty dollar is the god of choice.
If the people who continue to indulge this madness do the minister's bidding, give their whole weekly earnings, and remain mere head-nodders to his sermons instead of doing God's real work, then I don't blame the minister for what he scores from it.
Remember, this is America: where capitalism is king, everything(including salvation) is for sale, and the almighty dollar is the god of choice.
This Guy looks like the shister that he is/
No worse than Thaddeus Matthews asking for donations for his perverted radio show.
RedGirl75 said...
"Is this man crazy or what? With finances being as tight as they are and some people aren't even working, how could he even fix his mouth to ask his members to do that?"
No different than Willie asking the same dumb people to reelect him.
These pastors are getting ri'damn'diculous with all of this. I blame the congregation for allowing it. Any change would start with them. There's no real point in tell Thaddeus about your problems, because he's only going to show how foolish you all are. There should be a serious probe done on all of these mega churches and their pastors. The cost of living in this town isn't that high compared to others. If you have to pay these crazy tithe amounts, then it's no way that you will be able to survive. The church members should save that money and start a new congregation and let him try to find another hustle.
I hope that these folks exercise their God given common sense and ignore this pulpit hustler. If he needs to have all these fabulous things, then the good Bishop should get a job and pay for them himself. These preachers are a mess fleecing their congregations while the majority of these members are one pay check away from disaster. What a disgrace.
I am a member of Golden Gate and yes I was at church on Sunday and yes the Bishop did ask the members to give a sacrificial offering on the second Sunday in Febuary. he asked that the members give a week paycheck for the church anniversary and I was stunned.I had to ask my daughter and the lady sitting on the other side of me,did he say a week ? I also asked several more people after leaving out of the building,who were just as amazed as I was. It is a fact that he did not tell the members what the money would be used for,he just asked for it I am not giving him a week of my salary, I have some sense,unlike him.He also kept saying "Will a man rob God" during the the time we gave our tithes. He passed out a 90 day tithe covenant card to members that do not tithe and asked them to read the scriptures that are on the card that tell us why we should tithe and to place the card some where at home where we can see it and remind us on a daily basis as to why we should tithe,and to tithe for 90 days and watch things change for us.I am still in shock from yesterdays service Thaddeus. I did not know that he had two homes until you posted it here on your site.I hope that the members will not give in to this crazy idea of Ed Stephens. i would guess that he went to the Cordova location and told the members out there the same thing, I myself have never been to the Golde Gate Cordova location,my oldest daughter has been out there and she said that it was also packed on Sundays too. I know that the Raleigh church on James Road is filled every Sunday,even in the balcony. We had seventeen people to join on yesterday and I think 28 joined on New Years Eve night. I am looking for another place to worship now because I refuse to be lead like this, by a man telling us to give up a whole weeks paycheck for a church anniversary, oh Thaddeus don't forget that we also have a school at 3240 James Road, just adjacent to the church and it is Star Academy and it goes to the 6th grade. Thaddeus will you please explain how a Charter School would benefit Bishop Stephens ? There has to be a money benefit some kind of way. My daughter checked on the tuition for her daughter who is in the second grade, and she was told that it was 125.00 dollars a week for members, I wonder what it is for non members Thaddeus. Just for the readers that said that can this be real or true, yeah it is real ( beleive it ) I heard it with my own two ears. Thaddeus I wont sign my name, but you know exactly who I am, and you know that I am a member at the Gate and you told me that you did not know that I was wasteing my time over there at that church
The poster at 3:50 P.M. is lying. Her daugher couldn't have contacted STAR academy about tuition because STAR Academy is a public(FREE) charter school. Charter schools receive their charters from the local education association, in this case Memphis City Schools.
Thaddeus do you beleive that God might be trying to slay(silence) your voice? I hope you feel better.
I would like to focus on Bishop Stephen's message for yesterday which was that "God's promise is STILL good". He quoted at least 10 scriptures, from Genesis to Ephesians; rest assured it was a powerful, and relevant word for these difficult economic times. As with any message from a preacher, every Christian ought to know that every message("word") isn't for you. Bishop's appeal rolled right off of my back. It simply wasn't for me to receive. I thank God for God being God. I am so glad that I can hear from God myself, and don't have to rely on someone else to tell me what God said. If anyone wonders whether or not they should give in this or any offering, pray about it...God will tell you exactly what to do, and you won't have to have Bishop, an elder, or a Thaddeus Matthews tell you what to do with your money.
These people had better use common sense and pay their tithes and offering at a true church. I assume this church is true alright but in any case, they all need to make sure they are in the right place and then pay your utility bills and car note. Start now asking to see the finance report and all. The members need to stop whispering and speak up now and start forming your own committee and all. He can't embezzle the money. Where is this money going? What other sacrifices has he requested that don't involve money. I'm assuming he is going to pay their groceries and gas because those are small bills but what he is asking for is a big bill. It's better for him to give than to recieve. What is he doing?
What's the difference between him and New Mt. Sinai. Rev Rayborn called from jail and requested that 30 people voluntarily donate $1000 and requested that 50 people voluntarily donate $500. What's the difference?
Former Member...You have to use your common sense. All that is required is 10% of your earnings. Pay your tithes and offerings and be finished. If he asked for that amount does not mean that you have to give that amount. You know what you have to give. THINK...if you get put out or utilities get cut off can you go and LIVE AT THE CHURCH? Come on people and wake up and smell the ROSES!!!!
All I have to say is read the Bible and look at the examples in there. The Apostle Paul worked for a living as a tent maker. Can you imagine Jesus asking the poor people to give him a week's pay? On the contrary, Jesus provided for the people (remember he fed them with the fish and bread). he felt pity and compassion for them.
Even if he read 100 scriptures in his sermon, it doesn't validate his selfish unholy request for money.
As for as tithes, the bible says to give freely from the heart. According to the new testament, tithes are no longer requred, rather a voluntary offer.
if the preacher had good intentions he would have incouraged a spirit of giving but not demanding a whole weeks salary.
AR. Williams at WOCC asked the same thing yesterday. The church got quiet too. He then told his members not to get mad when others talk about him and he told visitors like me that he knew we visited to see what he is about "MY FINDINGS"- I found that he preached about the mall and rumors about him. He also told the church that he had only given out 10,000 to 61 poor people, 100 for non-members and 200 for members. He then said only one said thank you. They may have been shocked at so little he gave them after purchasing a mall for 1.5 million.
At WOCC this Sunday he asked for the first check and broke it down for us. If your first check was weekly, monthly, or bi-weekly he wanted it.
This is absolutely wrong. This guy does not have a job or anything, but he could afford these things and the government is not investigating them. I pay my tithes and offerings because I KNOW about the wonderful things that are happening at Mississippi Boulevard Christian Church. We feed a 1000 seniors a month, we give scholarships to kids going to school, we help the needy, and we spread the world of Jesus Christ. I will not judge this "bishop" but I hope that the members focus on Jesus and His requests. "Will a man rob God?" The question should be will a "bishop" rob man??
Dang, how many churches did Skinny finance? They said the same thing about Hill Chapel...
Thad,
Somebody gone beat yo ass one day!
this is not a story and the pastor did nothing illegal.
either you give or not. it is your decision. asking for a entire week's salary is nothing new. pastor's call it "first fruits" and they usually do it at the beginning of the year. my sister's pastor was preaching this way before paula white.
my motto - don't do anything under pressure. some other folks wrote - that give your tithe and offerring and God will bless you. don't give anything out of pressure and think you will get an extra blessing. God honors a cheerful giver. It is up to God to deal with the pastors. Just be wise! when it is time to lift up the vail of deceit - no man, no radio show, no article can hold it back! cause every man will get their just reward.
we are living in the last days - nothing should shock us. we have not seen nothing yet.
I love visiting Bishop Stephens and GGC, and I pay my tithes at the church I attend every Sunday. Honestly, i really don't care what they do with my 10% once I have given it but this is down right foolish. I believe in given what the Bible says to give and that's 10 percent nothing more, nothing less. Had I been at church an my Pastor made this comment, I would the one in the church pew cracking up and waiting for the puchline of the joke.
has this m f loss his mind! and for his members, they r just as stupid as he is.
An ATM in the lobby? Why not take the "church" out of the title and replace it with "bank" instead. But unfortunately, these customers will not get interest for their deposits; in fact, they will get nothing in return for their deposits, except for lip service.
Pimp the shit out of these brainwashed, self-righteous, hypocritical folks Bishop! Now I'm not saying it's right, but if someone is going to willingly give you their money; who amongst us wouldn't take it? Bishop could politely ask, he can beg, he can threaten, he can use any tactic he can conjur up to get my money and my answer will be in no uncertain terms KISS MY BLACK ASS! Or better yet I'd probably get put out for laughing to damn hard! In all seriousness, how could this nigga have the temerity, the audacity and even the downright stupidity to ask spomething of this magnitude? As I've said in previous posts, 'I can't knock the hustle.' Take the money Got Damn it! I know I would! And the rest of you all would to! I'm just man enough to admit it. CDA Little Rock
I can see Jesus now:
"Drink this wine because it represents my blood shed for you. This bread represents my broken body for you, and this ATM represents you just got pimped."
Why not open up a Car Title Loan desk in the lobby?
Thaddeus, you have me misbehaving. LMAO
N....@#$% Please. Just another selfish, self centered, Me,me,me, $$$. Why dont he give a weeks salary to some family that has lost a home or job?
Pimpin'! Pimpin! Pimpin' to the Highest of Pimpostity! Also, why was Rev. Rayburn calling from jail? You cannot call these "Men of God" shysters. They are WAY more advanced than shysters. Can you spell P-I-M-P? They are pimps and the congregants are the "working girls." The "working girls" go out, get money and bring it back to the pimp. What is the difference between this pimp in the pulpit and a pimp on the street? NOTHING!
I completely agree with the 4:23pm posting. All day, whether the people are good or bad, God is God. This man is simply that, a man and has no hold over anyone in his church if they don't allow him to. My pastor can request that we tithe every Sunday but God knows my heart and more importantly he knows my financial situation. I don't have to justify my tithing with anyone but God and nor does anyone else. The members of this church need to put it all to prayer. God will provide an answer. Once the members start to think for themselves, and know and understand that not everything the pastor says is right or for them, that will make their worshipping that much more beneficial.
This is why me and my wife chose Springdale Baptist Church. Our Pastor rarely mentions money and only does so in the context that God asks that you give freely from your heart! These churches are controlled by the Pastors and they hold the checkbooks! RIDICULOUS! Where are the Trustees and Deacons? We get all kinds of statements as to where monies are coming in and going out. My wife and I tithe and we refuse to walk around to the tithe box, because it unfairly makes us look better than non-tithers, so we wait and put it in after service. We feed,clean,clothe, and even pay utilities for members and non-members, THAT'S CHURCH!THAT'S BUILDING THE KINGDOM!
Looking for a church home visit us at 1193 Springdale or check us out on the web at www.springdalebc.org
Dr.Derrick J.Hughes Sr.Pastor
By the way we only have ONE LOCATION-It's In The Heart Of The Community With The Community At Heart
3:50, Star Academy is a charter school funded by the Dept of Education,therefore, the tuition is free. If they are charging $125 it is not for education, you may wanna check into that.
thad you are doing the same thing with this numberology mess taking people money God is watching all of us.
PREACHER GOT HIS OWN MEMBERS PUTTING MONEY IN THE PAN, WHILE THE REST OF THE WEEK HIS MEMBERS EATING OUT A SOUP CAN, WHILE HE HAS A BIG HOME DRIVES A BENTLEY THROUGH TOWN GOT THE WHOLE CHURCH BELIEVING THE DEVIL IS COMING FROM THE GROUND, OH MY JESUS! SLAVE TO THOSE WHO THOUGHT FOR WHAT WAS RIGHT, WHEN IT WAS WRONG.
9:57 YES things are nice at SBC for now .And what about the money the pastor keep asking to put monitors up we dont need them . The church was built so you wouldnt need monitors. And what about the house the church own on Springdale thats going to waste . SBC could have let some some family that needed the buy it. So now there is another vacant house in North Memphis . SBC is headed the same way some of the other churches are going because the pastor got his hand in everything . And come to think of the job he just made up for alex carson aka MR KISS ASS I know he dont get paid but if something needs to be done do for GOD dont run back a say pastor i did this or I did that . SBC aint all that so keep it real . o yea you have had your share of heavy dope dealers there to and some still there. Dont make me drop names
BLOGGER# 412PM
I AM NOT LYING, I KNOW THE TUITION THAT WAS QUOTED TO US, MAYBE YOU ARE ONE OF THOSE THAT WILL REMAIN AT THE CHURCH AND GIVE A WEEKS SALARY. I DON'T KNOW ALL THE RULES OF CHARTER SCHOOLS,BUT I DONT THINK
THAT IT IS FREE TO ATTEND.MAYBE SOMEONE WITH SOME KNOWLEDGE CAN EXPLAIN CHARTER SCHOOLS. ALL I KNOW IS THAT IF IT HAD BEEN FREE TO ATTEND,THEN MY GRAND DAUGHTER WOULD HAVE BEEN ENROLLED,BUT MY DAUGHTER COULD NOT AFFORD TO PAY 500.00 A MONTH TO SEND HER TO STAR ACADEMY. ONE THING THAT I DON'T HAVE TO DO IS TO LIE ABOUT WHAT HAPPENED.I AM BIGGER THAN THAT MY FRIEND,IT IS WHAT WAS TOLD TO US
1241 gotdam it you smart for a country boy or gal . the ones with the money have all the say so in the church .
Thad
you know the pastor have been knocking the women off and up in the church for many of years and the women think they going to get a blessing if they lets pastor lay hands on them our in them .Now I got my own lil thing I am going to start my way over there with Rev F. Ray and work my around the city and get my share of the honey and money now i am going to show them why they call it PIMPIN what better tricks then people with jobs ? dum asses
OMG....... WHEN I READ THIS IT HURT MY HEART. THIS IS JUST 2 MUCH 4 ME GREEDY! THIS IS ONE REASON THAT U HAVE SO MUCH CRIME N OUR CITY ALSO OUR MEN OF GOD AREN'T TRYING 2 SAVE OUR SOULS THEY ARE STEALING FROM US AND USING GOD IN THE MIST OF IT. THEY TRYING 2 I MUST SAY AND THEY KNOW BETTER. ALL I CAN SAY IS THAT PRAYER WILL CHANGE ANY AND EVERYTHING. MAY GOD BLESS.
And most of the members of these churches think that the whites are still trying to keep them down.Blacks are killing blacks and trying to steal their hard earned money.
Wake up and take charge at your churches and in your community! Do the right thing!
The ATM Machine is not one in which you can actually get funds, but a machine to debit your debit cards with your weekly tithes and offerings.
Bishop Stephens, and the rest of the thieving preachers has a way with these modern instant, have it your way christians.
When you got one foot in the world and one foot on the Word of God and that foot is slipping you pimped. Now if you are a TRUE christians tied up, tangle up in the WORD you can't be pimped. Read the Word for youself. Ask GOd for understanding, he will give it to you. BUt these modern day instant christians want to be prosperous and anybody that preach prosperity they listen too. They think these crooked preachers has a heaven to put them in. Yea give the self proclaim Bishop all your money, but you will not live in a million dollar house neither will you drive a bentley. You will struggle until God call your dumb asses home. (Tired and broke waiting on your change)
Self-proclaim Bishop Stephens has not had a job since he graduated from High School. Just following his pimping dead daddy. Only he is realllll Goooood at it.
How can he live so high and ain't never hit a lick at nothing all his adult life. This nigger is so important he will not even speak to you. Just stand his fat ass and look at you. Yea believe me there is a very special place in HELL for all these self-proclaim, correspondence school, never was call, just went preachers.
Just like the joke my grandmother once told me. Man died and went to Hell, she asked the man did he see her brother down there, man called back up to her and said can't see shit for all these preachers.Yea it is a place for you in HEll.
Scripture say there will come a time people want listen to sound doctrine, I guess the time is now, because if you listen to the bullshit these get rich quick skimming preachers tell you instead of the Word of God. Woe beyond to you.
These preachers and these preachers wives all going to Hell. Because their wives go along with the bullshit.
SO to all the crooked, hell bound preachers and their wives, enjoy your big houses, money, cars, jewelry, etc. because when your soul goes to Hell, maybe, just maybe Satan will be impress, if not impress he will be glad to see you.
P.S. Know the preachers are reading Thad's blog because they praying they name don't come up. Aint that right HA-HA-HA-HA
Why is it when a black man pastors a church and lives a blessed lifestyle, it is questioned? White pastors have been purchasing exquisite homes, summer homes, winter homes, airplanes, etc for years and no one says a word. When the man of God is black and lives nice, its a shame. Do you know how many pastors go out of their pockets like the black preachers to pay light bills, docotr bills, etc. White pastors live just as lavish and I do not see you putting all their business out. It can be found just as easily. There are just as many white preachers in the metro than black and their incomes EXCEEDS the black preachers. You down the black community so much. Start trying to find solutions since you have a LOUD VOICE and many listen and come to this site. Do your part as "PREACHER" and start praying instead of always stiring up mess and junk. Its time for peace and healing in our communities. If a person wnats to pay money to a church and the pastor, that si their business. How do we know that the money that is sent to this show is not going to some ill repute need or want. How do we know that the donations to you are not going to some wayward situation but its sent anyway. Do your part as a "TALK SHOW HOST" and expose the important issues: the MCS system, the SCC system, the MPD, the realestate issues, the truancy issues, the black on black crime, City Council (Your friend Wanda Halbert) wants city workers to take pay cuts or early retirement. Why wont the city councilmen and women work for free and they take pay cuts instead since they LOVE this city and are compassionate about what they do.
Its so much more to CRY out about so leave the men of GOD alone. God will judge all in the end.
PM
@10:16...The operative words are "Men of God." How do we know that these are "Men of God?" The only evidence that any of us have that would indicate that these people are "Men of God" is their word. That's it! No lifestyle changes, no signs from up above, no divine relevant word, no evidence of ANY kind other than they tell us they are; basically, because they say so.
One of the issues that I have with the chuch is the notion that anyone who proclaims to be called by God is somehow exempt from scrutiny or critism, irrespective of their behavior. The prevailing veiw seems to be, "just let God deal with it." Well I vehemently disagree. We have a duty as Christians to be good stewards over the things that God has given us. And anyone who chooses to give to a cause, be it a church, pastor, or any organization that is not using that which we give, for the purposes of edifying the body or uplifting the kingdom are doing a disservice to God.
I can't say for sure that Stephens, Williams, or any other preacher is profiting off of the ignorance of Church folks. But I will say that is sounds/smells kind of fishy. Companies are laying off, people are loosing their homes, not to mention the absurdly high rates of crime, violence, and poverty in the black community and RIGHT THERE IN THE CHURCH to be honest and we have preachers who are making obscene amounts of money, doing absolutely nothing!
Black folks especially have to get off this "something for nothing" gig. Preachers conveniently leave out the fact that in order to be blessed financially there is a certain lifestyle change that you MUST make. You have to save, live within your means, refrain from making frivolous purchases,etc...You can't just take your money to the church, give (to support the pastor's opulent lifestyle) and expect a miracle! There needs to be transparency, there needs to be accountability and unfortunately there is not. Again we want something for nothing. It's easy to take your money to the church and expect a miracle. How many times have we heard, "If you want to be blessed financially, you have to give." WOW! That's all I have to do! Well guess what? BULLSHIT!
As a child, I often wondered why there weren't many men attending church; and as an adult, I can cleary understand why..........
CDA Little Rock
This is too distributing. Any minister who ever asks a congregation to forgo their on personal needs and sacrifice their weekly salary is wrong on so many levels The Bible addresses giving of your time, talents and tithes. I have always understood this to mean 10%. In the best of economic times, I would not forfeit my entire salary ever, especially, to someone who has two houses worth close to 2 million dollars. In these days of "mega churches", GREED rules. Although each member should think for themeselves and some might ignore this request, some will adhere to it. The church board members, deacons and associate psstors, hopefully, did not know Stephens was going to ask this of his congregation beforehand. A thought sell one of the houses.
I am a member of GGC and it's funny how "church folk" do. We don't want to give but get mad when the church doesn't give to us in the time of need. We want to talk about folk until the gossip reaches your family name. I'm pretty sure Thaddeus Matthews has had issues that he would like to keep to himself. If you don't approve of Bishop Steven's methods or what he asks his members for then guess what "FIND SOMEWHERE ELSE TO GO" Don't blast him on the worldwide web. What good will that do. I was there when he asked for a week's pay. Some will give and some won't but it's their business. Stop worrying about the sins of Bishop Stevens and concern yourself with where you will spend eternity. God will take care of Bishop Stevens if what he is doing is not right. If you want to give a week's salary, by all means give, if you don't want to or can't afford it, don't. God does not look at the size of your gift but your willingness to give freely. To the members of his church that are on here bashing him with the rest of the people who don't know what this is all about; You need prayer. So when Bishop issues the call to the altar, you'd better go and ask God for courage and wisdom, because the same way you voiced your opinion on here is the same way you could have gone to Bishop or any other church staff for answers. So instead of joining in on the negativity that this show produces, please pray for those who you think may be falling. Thaddeus, you definately need to rethink what you're doing to preachers and ministers. We ALL have sinned, and there is not one among us who does not have to go through a struggle or test every single day. The sin is in staying in the mess. Pray for them instead of blasting them and find something else to talk about. Let me tell all of you listeners of the Thaddeus Matthews show...Riding someone else's coat tails won't get you to heaven but it sure is the quickest way to HELL! Have a Blessed day.
There are some good churches but there are some churches that have been taken advantage of people in our community and most of those churches are black. I don't believe it should be black and white churches, is there a black and white Heaven I don't think so. There is no perfect white church but we as black people take things out of context for example pastor having body gaurds most white churches does not have that , and all these titles we we have in the black church. A lot of this stuff is not biblcial and has nothing to do with God's Kingdom. Sad part is we all know this. There are titles in the bible but a lot of times we are more concern about titles than our charcter, and thats not bible.
Thaddeus, please publish the full address of Bishop Stephens, so that I can send him a huge poster to put up in his church. It's about the story in Matthew 19:23-24, which none of today's preachers want to talk about anymore to the people. For it explains how difficult it is for a rich man to get into heaven. You know, the one that says that it is easier for a camel to get through the eye of a needle than for a rich man to get into heaven. And I will also tell the people that they do NOT have to tithe. And that preachers should NOT be paid to deliver God's word to people.
This is a great site for anyone who is interested in the stupidity displayed by African-Americans on this public site.
i got lots used coopper tube
some real gold and silver jewry credit cards with some has a good date
do this pastor have a machine that i can get cash money from in a trade for these things I find round town may bee i bring them to back door of curch.
3:02 PM
DROP NAMES GO ON DROP IT LIKE ITS HOT
I know that what they are saying is true. If they ain't pimpin' then why is it that his wife, Beverly, sells her Mary Kay all up through Golden Gate. How many members know that their tithes go towards building her business. Everytime a speaker comes in or a gift is given, it is Mary Kay. The church then turns around and has to pay her. Building her business. She then went out and got all of the other preacher's wives in on the pimpin' lesson. It is all a hustle.
I am convinced that you, Thaddeus Matthews, are hell-bent on negativity, stirring up controversy, and just getting the people mad and angry with HALF TRUTHS and sometimes flat out WRONG INFORMATION!!
Had you actually been in attendance at Golden Gate on Sunday morning, January 4th, 2009, to get FIRST HAND information instead of HEARSAY, you probably would've gotten a totally different understanding on what Bishop was requesting and why. Then again - probably not, because you love to keep up CRAP... (I’m not cussing this year!!)
To set the record straight -
1) Bishop does not own a Bentley - he does however own a couple of Mercedes Benz (which is his prerogative). Several of us are walking in prosperity because we do SOW and SACRIFICE and PAY TITHES (this is not a dream or “seeing ourselves in the future” – this is a reality!!). Several of our church members ALSO drive Benz's. So I guess they're pimpin' too, huh? NOT.
2) Bishop is not trying to put an ATM machine in the church. However, he is polling the congregation (via survey) to see if they'd like a check-LESS debit machine. Hello!! This means peoples’ tithes and offerings would come directly from their CHECKING ACCOUNTS. This is not for folks to get cash advances and thangs off their credit cards. We ARE in the 21st century – the era of technology!! Is this NOT what folks in this country are doing everyday ANYWAY??? Are we not trying to save the environment by being GREEN, conserving paper, SAVING A TREE???!!!!
3) The sacrificial offering is a request! This is not a MANDATE on any member!! As with any SACRIFICE, you do this if you can. If you cannot, nobody’s hanging you on the stake and turning YOU into the sacrifice!! Those who have a heart to SACRIFICE and cannot won’t be penalized or frowned upon. Trust me, the church (AND GOD) TOTALLY understand... What's the problem with this?? There are many members of our church who will have NO problem sacrificing a week’s worth of their salary and aren’t complaining about it… God LOVES a cheerful giver!! If you can give, GIVE. If you can’t – it’s QUITE ALRIGHT!
I really feel, as a whole, when we don’t understand a thing or understand how God is speaking, what He is saying and why it is needed – then just SHUT UP!!!! People who are not spiritual often have a difficult time understanding the things of God, and more importantly, the things of the spirit… And again I say, when you don’t understand it – SHUT UP… Or ASK for understanding prior to jumping to baseless conclusions…
And thank you for letting me post!!
Peace & Blessings!
10:16pm
Why is it when a black man pastors a church and lives a blessed lifestyle, it is questioned? White pastors have been purchasing exquisite homes, summer homes, winter homes, airplanes, etc for years and no one says a word. When the man of God is black and lives nice, its a shame. Do you know how many pastors go out of their pockets like the black preachers to pay light bills, docotr bills, etc. White pastors live just as lavish and I do not see you putting all their business out. It can be found just as easily. There are just as many white preachers in the metro than black and their incomes EXCEEDS the black preachers. You down the black community so much.
Was waiting for the race card to be pulled. So you have the King of spades.
Last time I checked Thad posted his entry about black pastors fleecing the flock and last time I looked Thad was a black man. Whatever his intentions were for this post, someone ALWAYS has to pull the race card.
Face it the black community is getting F'd over by the so called black leaders in this city who only care that they get the black vote. Blacks are getting F'd over by the black pastors who only care about lining their pockets. Yes, this happens in the whtie community as well, look at Bellevue, but that was not the topic.
Maybe instead of playing the race card and doing the white man has me down line, blacks should stop the violence that plagues their youths, their communites and work together with everyone to make Memphis on the map for good things instead of the crime that plagues it.
Hey just a thought.
Ok 9:57. The monitors are not completely necessary but would enhance the view for members upstairs & even around the lower bowl.Carson is dedicated and does a TON of things that are not even in his description. As for the house across the street, there is a bigger plan for that and the community will benefit from it. You know we run a tight ship around there! Things may not be perfect but Hughes sure not asking for our paychecks! As for the dealers, well maybe so, but Brown DID NOT play their game and they left him alone. If there are any there now, the result will be the same. Sounds like you have been there or may be a member, we are a GREAT church. Change is coming just wait and see. This is a God mission not a man mission.
This ain't about black and white. It is about right and wrong. Preachers stop stealing from your members! Stop telling yourselves that you have a divine right to ask folks to sacrifice so that you can have two homes - doesn't make sense. Your obligation is to the least of these - not to rake in as much as you can. I come from a long line of baptist preachers - none of which ever went the crroked route. But then again, they did not overextend themselves and the ministry trying to outdo the next preacher by buying the biggest house, fanciest car, building the largest church, etc. Listen, you know what's right, and you know what's wrong. Get yourselves together or lift up your eyes in hell!
Just because some white preachers have done wrong and nothing was said (which I don't believe is true) doesn't make it right when the black preachers do the same thing. The comment reminds me of a 5 year old asking why am I in trouble for doing the same thing that Mikey did? Mikey did it and he didn't get in trouble. Well, it was wrong when Mikey did it and still wrong when the black preacher does the same thing. This pastor probably has people sitting in his congregation who can't even afford one home much less two and he's asking them for their entire week's pay. There ought to be a law passed to prevent these leeches from manipulating, misleading and stealing from their congregations.
Yes it is just a disgrace how greedy some of these Pastors are.I have a child that attends Word OF Faith Christian Academy.They will not let me bring my child to school because I am a week late on my tuition.I told them that I would have the tuition in a week. They said my child would have to stay at home until then.Pastor Gene Crockett is just as money hungry as the rest.This is really sad because he has three grand-children that attend the school tuition free of course.
Until you get the whole truth please do not badger others. Whatever the case the Bible says, YOU SOW WHAT YOU REAP and this means just or unjust!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I normally do not visit this site due to ignorance. However, this was emailed to me today, so I had to speak my peace.
Thaddeus, friends of Thaddeus, and hidden so-called members of Golden Gate Cathedral. Yes, our Bisphop did ask for a week's pay. I do not have a problem with that (I am not an ignorant nor am I a dumb person; I am a Child of God). I know if I cannot give, I will not give. Bishop did not say everyone MUST give, he asked!
Golden Gate is not for everyone..please find you a church home that is. Bisphop is a wonderful pastor, please do not hate on his congregations and his homes...get like him. My Bisphop and his family are blessed, and they do not mind blessing others.
As for the young lady who says Star Academy charges fees to attend..honey please!! Your daughter did not call Star Academy, sweetie!!! Star Academy is free and part of the Memphis City Schools.
AS FOR YOU THADDEUS, you should take notes...maybe you will get caught up on your CHILD SUPPORT. DON'T HATE, PARTICIPATE.
Please keep your mouth off Golden Gate, however, we welcome all visitors. Please come, YOU WILL BE BLESSED!!!
Talk about your problems Thaddeus---pay your support dude!!!!
Okay people lets really look at this situation. As a race we have always respected the niggar in charge. On the plantation it was the house nigga or the overseer. And it is the titles that we respected and admired. Now we add a little twist to it. We add God to it and the black Preacher becomes the most respected and yes worshiped. Anything that we are asked to do we obey. Hell we don't do half of the stuff that bible says do. But the Black Preacher is the highest title besides president. To make things worst for black folks everything is too taboo to discuss. Every wrong doing, issue and problems are not to be mentioned. So we go through life incurring this type of bullshit. We give our time and money and when we are done wrong we can't say anything. Fuck that shit this is 2009 and we need to wake the fuck up. I am right now looking for a new church, a real church without the greed.
Not only is he crazy,his wife quit her high paying job to work for the church, both of them are getting paid.Pastor,I can see if you said your tithes this Sunday will be donated to help the members and the poor at this hard time in the economy.Can you tell us Pastor what the money will be use for?
Ummm, is he the next JIM JONES??
Give him my check for a week? for what? So he can give his WOMEN in the church.. Bishop is so full of shit.. He has no respect for his church, wife or anything.. Asking girls in his church to drop down and suck his you know what! Cannot stand this man. But you know, every dog has his day! Golden Gate wake up!
1:17 OK CHARLES HENDERSON BIG CHILLI THE LATE JEROME DEANER TRAVON DEANER MARLIN DEANER DERRICK NEWSOME JEFF SHELTON OPPS THEY ALL BROKE NOW AND WORKING GOOD JOBS
THAD YOU KNOW THE FUCKING OUT THE FRAME AT NEW DIRECTIONS THE NIGGA COLD WITH IT TO
More power to them. Those who can will, those who can't want
I find it interesting that the only scripture Sunday pastors know is the one on tithing. Ask them about the Ten Commandments, which were written by the finger of GOD and they start talking about what was and wasn't "nailed to the cross". I find this entire situation quite comical and a true indication of how Satan will use people, including those who are supposed to be "called" to pimp Jesus. How much is the pastor giving up? How much is HIS family giving up? Lead by example, Pastor/Bishop/Grand Pubah or whatever they are calling themselves this week.
Why is it that the real tax payers in Memphis are forced to support some so called historic church through the actions of the black members of the city council? Just what kind of a home do the preachers at that black church live in? Then to, I would ask, why do the same tax payers have monies paid end up in the bank account of a failing Lemon Owens College? Let those students go to Memphis State and close down that Lemon.
I normally don't respond to negative talk or blogs but in this case I felt compelled to speak on behalf of Bishop Stephens and his family. It saddens me to know how people can make such negative remarks about a man they don't even know. Bishop and 1st Lady always invited my son on their family vacations with their sons. He is the only father figure my son knows. Bishop asked his members a question not demanding anything of anyone. If we the members can give we will do so, if we can't we will not be condemned for that. I have the utmost respect and love for my Bishop and 1st Lady. If you have never attended a service at GGC please do so. Lives are and have been truly changed. It doesn't matter what negative response may come after this blog but know that Bishop is my spiritual father and Lady Beverly is my spiritual mother and no weapon formed against them will prosper. To the GGC member who is bashing Bishop need to find another church home, because GGC is not the church for you.
Remember this a man's foundation is build upon the bricks others throw at him!!!! Keep delivering the Word Bishop!!!
one thing I can truly say about this
GREAT BISHOP he can preach the word of GOD and he will let you have a funeral in the church and a wedding.
Unlike his counterparts you got to pay FRANK RAY pay and all the rest.
Bishop does not care whether you pay or not he will preach the funeral and do the wedding. That's a fact!!!!!!
Even when you are not a member.
Let's remember be careful what you say about the man of GOD because we are not GOD. He has to preach the funeral pray and visit the sick and you will need him for your life at some point. GOD says he will handle the preacher because he knew that the job would make them get beside themselves. Just like SOLOMON he would now leave the women of other colors alone he even started to marry them which was worst he had everything but he got greedy. History repeats itself.
I hope everyone will read this.
Signed
GET THE GREASE OUT OF YOUR OWN EYES
Get your own life right first,live holy then you can say something.
OK y'all, I am an agnostic, and found this site through some boredom. I live in Memphis though, and well aware of the race issues. My question is simply, why can't you donate to some charity that actually publishes how much of it's contributions actually go to people in need? Seriously, any charity that doesn't donate at least 90% of it's revenues to needy people isn't a charity worth giving to. I don't care if that charity is your local church or not.
And charity doesn't know color, if you are about to lose your house because you just lost your job, you need help. If you can't feed your children you need help.
For fuck's sake, what is the fucking problem with making sure that funds that you donated to help people actually go to help people?
And by the way, I was raised in Byhalia MS, and am very familiar with our areas history. Whatever stupid and cruel things that anyone has perpetrated in our local area is no excuse for a pastor who has two houses and a Bentley. FFS, I have two classic cars, a two newer cars, and those notes don't add up to a f'n Bentley. I am not a pastor, and from how I was raised, a pastor should be driving something old that barely works. All the money from the church should be going to people who need it to survive. Some can be saved to help support the pastor, and have a meeting place, but how the hell does a Bentley qualify as necessary, much less two large homes?
Give me a break.
I wonder how in the world you would feel if you are bashed over and over. You must be hurt for you are a human being. We must be mighty careful what we SAY AND DO.There is a principle called whats done in the dark will be brought to the light and this is the reason so amny anointed people are in the pews and not operating in position in the church because THEY DO NOT HAVE THE MONEY TO PAY. It is really sad!!!!!!!!!!!!! Where do you go for the true word. I have that answer: READ FOR YOURSELF. Be Blessed all of you because God sees and knows all.
If any man lacks wisdom, let him ask God that gives to ALL men liberally. He will not leave you ignorant!!!!
Now, I know why Bishop Stevens make asses out of his congregation. From reading the responses from I assume his stupid members talking about he ask my son to go on vacations, he go visit the sick, he let you have weddings, and he preach funerals. I almost hurt myself laughing. People like that deserve everything Bishop Stevens do to them. Hey Bishop line your congregation up and put your foot in their asses and then turn it ninety degrees.
They get all excited because you asked their son to go on vacations, Well hooptodo. He is a preacher he suppose to preach funerals whether you are a member or not. Then it really does not matter because he does not have the last so over your soul, just your dead body. One thing for sure Bishop Stevens sure has his people hoo-dooed.
Golden Gate Full Gospel or whatever the hell you suppose to be, maybe that is part of the Full Gospel doctrine, according to your god Bishop Stevens. But if you go to Wal-mart or any store and invest in a 10.00 Bible and read the Word of God, ask for understanding and pray I can guarantee you will see things differently.
Bishop Stevens and Lady Stevens are crooks. You can believe it Golden Gate if you want to. But when you lift your eyes up in Hell it will be to laaatttteeee.
It amazes me how so many people can be fascinated with bullshit and call it biblical
As the late civil rights leader, Fannie Lou Hamer once said, "My people, my people.
I am pass the point of being disgusted. Mr Matthews, you obviously need something to do with your life. what you are doin is not helping others. It's trash. I attend Golden Gate Cathedral, and I was disappointed at what I've read. if you were not there, you don't really know what actually happened do you? Everyone has to answer for their own sins. The people at Golden Gate are good people, and we don't deserve to be call stupid. I love God, and my GGC family.and we strive to be better people. Bishop teaches according to God's word. and I have really learned how to be better person since I've been at GGC. My life has even been better since I've been attending Golden Gate because the word is being taught. This is not right. Mr Matthews, you are not a good man. I am at a loss for words.
"Some can be saved to help support the pastor, and have a meeting place, but how the hell does a Bentley qualify as necessary, much less two large homes?"
HO! You gotta stop and think of the qualifications of the congregation. They are the same imbeciles that kept Willie Herenton in the mayor's throne for all those miserable years after he created the downfall of the Memphis School System.
Nothing against these folks, just want to stir them up enough to get away from their racist behavior and think their way through an election. Really, it's hard to believe that a living and breathing person would keep a Willie in office for so long.
God sits high and looks low- he see's all that is being done and I can assure you that the wrong-doe'rs will be PUBLICLY EXPOSED. So if wrong is done- trust me- God will handle it accordingly. The word knowers are punished harder.
Everyone has made vaild comments, however there is only one tht can handle this. When a man is in the position - like the Bishop- God will hold him 100% accountable. Vengence is mine- Says the Lord. I will repay!! So, just chill people! God got this!!!!!!
Take Care!
EXCESS is A SIN!!!!
i can bet you one thing- his women arent getting any of the money. he is cheap- i know that for a fact. he IS NOT giving money for pleasure.
If any of you drive past his house there is at least 9 cars parked. all the kids have new cars and he flips every 2 yrs- this saddens me that people in the church are struggling and barely making it and he has the balls to ask for their hard earned money. there is no where in the bible where god says you have to give for personal prosperity. is there?
Wow!!!!!! Crooked a** preacher and his folks love this!!
I HAVE ONE QUESTION. IF THE MEMBERS OF GGC,TOD,OR ANY OTHER CHURCH LARGE OR SMALL CHOOSE TO GIVE THIER PASTOR 10,000 DOLLARS A MINUTE. WHY IS THAT THE BUSINESS OF THADDEUS OR ANYONE ELSE?
I don't know what the Bishop's motive maybe or why he made such a request. I do know this, if what He is doing is not of God then it will be revealed and may God have mercy on him. This is why it is so important that we study to show ourselves approved unto God and not to man. We have to know the word for ourselves and this requires a personal relationship with Him through His son Jesus. I realize that people are angry and rightly so but saying negative things about him will not change this situation. As believers in Christ Jesus, we have seen things such as this before and we are called to pray.., fast and pray!
Burn The Bastard
I have no idea who Bishop Edward Stephens is. But he is not putting a gun up to any of his members head making them give a weeks pay. If they disagree with it; dont give a entire week of their pay or leave the church. It is silly to put church business out in the community. No one is making these members stay. Grow up people......you have the right to leave whenever you get ready. Stop complaining so much!!!!
This Pastor has his reasons for asking his congregation for their paycheck. Maybe God has spoken to him and made the request because he has a plan for each and every member who gives up their paycheck. Only God knows what is going on and if the Bishop asked it's up to whoever heed his request to do what they please. Most Christians would go to God and he will give them an answer before giving up their paychecks and that's what the Pastor believes they would do. Those who are calling the members crazy if they do - if you are Christians, where is your faith!!! The only way their bills or whatever would not be paid - their faith in God is not strong. God is a God of more than enough and he is not going to put on his believers no more than they can bare - He will Bless them with more than enough even if they are being used by this Pastor - because of their faith. If you know anything about the bible God had many believers suffer but turned around and BLESSED THEM WITH MORE THAN ENOUGH because of their faith. This Pastor can only do what God is calling him to do whether his members do it or not. God is not mocked for whatsoever a man soweth that shall he also reap.
You know a few people have said if the church doesnt mind its not our business. I beg to difer!Southern slave owners told northern abolitionest it wasnt there business either. Your freedom comes from them sticking there nose in the slave owners business! The question is,is the church helping or hurting the black community? It's time for us to wake up people! Stop worshiping the pastors,you cant BUY your way into heaven. And for goodness sake do some reading other than the damn bible! It's not the first or last word,and it's certainly not the first book of religon.Research your peoples history and get some real knowledge of who you really are! I bet half of the congregation doesnt know Jesus wasnt a christian,or what the nicene creed is.Its time to reprogram people STOP DRINKING THE DAM KOOL-AID!
The word on the streets- well in the Hollywood & Chelsea hood, is that Bishop is trying to get Skinny Pimp's money together before he's release so he can pay him off and be done with him. Did yall hear that word? Maybe all gossip?? But, people, if you don't agree with what Bishop Stephens is doing, STOP talking about it and don't commit, bottom line. He will pay for all of his wrongdoings, right?
Once again, the pastor can not be blamed for this. It's not all wrong to make sacrafices to the church, I do it all the time....according to how God leads me. My pastor as for sacraficial offerings, not often and never for himself but he tells us if the Lord lead us to do it. People have to have a relationship with the Lord and a mind of their own.
You DO NOT HAVE TO BELONG TO A CHURCH to be a Christen. There are TV shows to watch on Sunday morning if that's your thing or anyday of the week. You can share your 10% with the food pantry,Goodwell, Homeless shelter, St Jude for childern, Lion's hearing program for the old. Hell the way things are today buy someone or a family a meal to eat. God looks at what you do to care for others and how you treat your fellow man next to you. Not what you wear to church or what lies you tell or what money you pay in. If the money is not used for good than it makes all contributers sinners and if you knowing know tha your pastor is stealing from the people of the church and you do nothing than where do you think you stand in God's eyes? He sees what you do on a daily basics and how you treat every living being and creature he has created. All these wantbe's will burn in Hell they are not fooling any of us and sure not our God. Join together and stop paying money to the church until the stealers and con-wantbe's go broke and leave (they will if the well runs dry and you as a power of the church refuse to turn the hose on)GOD WILL NOT BE UPSET WITH YOU he is asking why it took you so long to stand up to the evil living in his and your house. The Church has the power to destroy any man that comes in to the house and cheats his childern.
STAND UP AND GET RID OF ALL THE PASTORS THAT ARE LIVING OFF YOU AND NOT HELPING YOU. STOP THE MONEY COMING IN, GIVE NO ASSTANCE TO THE DIRTY PASTOR OR/AND MAKE HIM FEEL HE IS NOT WELCOME ANYMORE. Most the time the no money runs them off before you have a chance to act on the other parts. GOOD LUCK FRIEND OF GOD
Ah yes! Spare me the wrath of the self righteous faithful when their beloved “Pastors” are criticized! I know very little about the Bishop at Golden Gate but this does sound like a big money grab to me. For those followers who were there, did the Bishop ever say what the money was going to be used for? Was it for feeding the homeless? Local charities? Paying the utility bills of the elderly? Building homes for the poor? What? If the Bishop said the money was for a new Mercedes or boob job for his wife, would you have been fine with that?
Let me give you some of the top excuses the blind faithful give for unquestioning loyalty to their Pastors/Church:
1.Not my Pastor…he would never (fill in the blank)
2.He is a righteous man!
3.If he is doing wrong with the money God will take care of that.
4.Once I give the money I don’t care what he does with it. That’s between him and God!
5.The Lord loves a cheerful giver.
6.I have to give in order to get my blessing!
7.It’s not my money anyway, it belongs to God.
By the way, I live within walking distance of Reverend Frankie Ray’s home. I have seen him add on to his already huge house and the Bentley and other expensive cars in his driveway. He lives about as far away from his Church and congregation as he can get. I wonder why?
What’s the difference between pimps and most preachers? Preachers spend a little less time in jail…on average.
Bishop Stephes, please take that dick out of my wife. She just will not give me any pussy any more. You have wrecked my home man. How are you going to get to heaven. I am thinking about fucking your wife next. Even if i have to suck her pussy all day and night to convince and seduce her.
As they say birds of a feather flock together, or at least until one of them wants a bigger piece of the worm. The self proclaimed Apostle Bill Anderson was a part of this scam until he started his own (scam, that is). While he and his fourth wife have been successful in running game on their over-exaggerated number of members (50 - 1550 members depending on the article), the Bible speaks of the truth being revealed. Praise God that our truth is the failing economy.
I beg of you fellow Christians to please honor your commitment to God. He makes you feel good about the sacrifices you make for the Kingdom even before you are strip-searched in the sanctuary. You know it is the right thing to do. "To thine own self be true" and do not get caught up just because an Elder tells you that your "nature has changed". When you are out of a job, money is tighter but everything is more expensive....I think that makes everyone reorganize their financial priorities. Your commitment to GOD should not be in question because you have had to re-appropriate some funds.
In times like these, we need the Lord more than ever. Take heart that when the rest of the world suffers, God's people will thrive. But that does not mean if you cast your lot to swine or invest your money in an OBVIOUS misuse of funds. If you are not completely turned off and ready to leave this assembly or center (not sure it is a church), I would submit to the Board of Trustees that if the Bishop is willing to reduce funds allocated to him for homes, cars, entertainment and travel (maybe on a percentage basis), there are several of US that will be willing to sacrifice a week's pay for the purpose of God.
Now is NOT the time to be ignorant. Pray for WISDOM!!!!
Its hard already to live but to give your hard earn money to someone for just saying "AMEN" let me find a congregation like that. Any one who give any money to him really has a bad case of being a "DAMN FOOL"
I normally do not waste my time responding to this stuff. However, I am more appalled by the comments of the "Gate" member who gave a complete rundown of the service. Let me ask this question, "why are you there?" This is what I know. I have a relationship with Christ Jesus. I study the word of God and attempt to apply it to my life. In this relationship with Christ, I have learned that God (the Holy Spirit) dwells within me -- just like you (those who profess to be Christians). When I give my tithes and offerings, I give to God -- not man. What I decide to give is between my and God -- not man. If I choose not to give -- it's something between me and God --not man! When I hear folks ask for money -- regardless to who it is -- I seek God's direction and guidance. If I am not at peace about it -- I don't do it. It's that simple. We are always so quick to blame someone else for our shallow, narrow-minded thinking. I guess as long as you stay in your "feel-good" mode, it's okay. How hypocritical? I guess you want to see him broke too? I really don't care about what he owns -- I am happy for him as I would be for you. If he is unethical -- the whole truth will come out. If you are not happy there -- then leave. This is so interesting; it appears to me that you have made Mr. Matthews your God. I don't know which is worst. When you twist the truth to satisfy an agenda -- is that not deception? What's the difference? So now...we look at his home -- you don't know if he earned that through the church, investments or what? What are you doing to make life better for you and your family? I just wonder -- the member of the "Gate" -- did you take as much time to pray for your pastor as you did to publicly disdain his name and his family? Be blessed my sister -- we all have to stand before God. I'm praying for you. I am so thankful for God's grace and mercy. Man beats you down while God lifts you up! Hallelujah!!
It is really sad that we have gotten away from what church is really for.. Saving souls.. Pastors are living lavish lives and forgetting the basis of it all. I know for a fact EDWARD STEPHENS has. He is not worth being given the title Bishop.. He is a doggish man.. Ask his women.. He has assigned seats for them at his Sunday service.. Ask him if you dont believe me..
Now this is down right ridiculous to keep attacking a man of GOD who truly is giving his all to teach us. What possessions he has isn't and shouldn't be an issue. So leave him alone, focus your attention to something more positive and leave my pastor alone.
Well, I guess if he and his wife were living in a shaggy house, wearing old clothes and driving a hooptie, you all will be satisfied. [No you wouldn't.] You would talk about him like a dog and say that his members should help their pastor and wife out to look good. When you bless the church, you are blessing yourself. Of course Thaddeus, you wouldn't know what that is. These same people that are going to Golden Gate and other churches are the same people that are going to concerts to fatten Jay-Z, Beyonce', Mary J. Blige and other pop stars pockets. It's Ok for the world to have these things, ie., Bentleys, Rolls Royces, Mercedes, large fine homes, fine clothes, and they don't have a job -job, but when it comes to Gods children, we suppose to look like we're homeless? Something is wrong with that picture. My God has everything and He wants us to have the finer things of life as well. Thaddeus, the lady that you talked to yesteday on the radio, that said that Peter Popoff didn't do what he said he would do, so she was going to give her tithes to you. [She's stupid] She does not have any faith so she's going to give her money to another Jim Jones [you]. It's OK for you to take the people money, but the preachers can't. You are full of it!
You know it is amazing that people will twist the word of a person. Not being a faithful tither at this church but a member that is not what he said. He did not ask for their entire check. We tend to listen to others before we find out the truth. Yes, he did ask if the congregation wanted an ATM, however; he requested their VOTE. So, which means if the majority wanted one then there is a possibility we would get one. Just like we VOTE for our Presidents, Mayors, City official etc., what is wrong with taking a congregational VOTE. If you are one of the people that like to twist words of an individual start telling it CORRECTLY!
First, Thaddeus there is a special floor in hell waiting on you...you have got to be the most miserable person on planet earth...you get off on talking crap about other people and situations that you know NOTHING about..and don't let the fact that i am commenting fool you...I do not tune in to your show nor do I visit your site...I came here ONLY because I heard about the BS that was being said about my Bishop.
Second, the people who have commented and don't go to Golden Gate and don't know the Bishop or didn't hear the request that was made...you are just as STUPID as you are calling GGC members....how can you speak on a topic that you don't have the facts on
Third, I am tired of people talking about all preachers want is money....some of yall are soooo bitter and disillusioned....it takes money to run ministry....you can't feed, clothe, pay light bills, build facilities for youth for FREE...wake up people....Even Jesus Christ himself had a treasurer among the disciples...maybe yall are so tight when it comes to money because you have never had any so you try to hold on to every little dime...the principle of sowing and reaping is very true....if you sow little, you reap little
Fourth, Bishop did NOT ask for a weeks pay...he asked that each member give a sacrifical offering of one weeks TITHE...let me break it down to you....if you pay $100 each week in tithes bishop asked that you give an additional $100 as a sacrificial offering...not your pay check...just an additional 10%
fifth, it is so sad that most of you really don't care about the truth...you feed off of negaitivity...
sixth...get ya weight up....not ya hate up!
seventh, i am really LMBO at some of the people on here....you can tell by the tone of their comments that some of you are living empty lives...this is even more reason for you to come by the gate....the promise is still good! ;-)
"I am tired of people talking about all preachers want is money....some of yall are soooo bitter and disillusioned....it takes money to run ministry....you can't feed, clothe, pay light bills, build facilities for youth for FREE"
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Dear Golden Gate member, your comment is very true. It does take money to do the things that you've listed but be honest with yourself. Is Golden Gate doing any of these things? NO!! People in the pews sitting right next to you are suffering. That church does not help the community or even its own members for that matter. Yes, I am sure they are living "empty lives" as you've called it. It's empty because they have given their everything to a church that they thought would be there for them in their time of need only to find out the answer is no. My sister or brother (not sure of your gender), be slow to answer to defend people when you don't know the whole story either. All I can say is please, please, please, don't let God have to put you in the place where you need them. I am sure that's when you'll find out that all that glitters ain't gold at "The Gate."
Thaddeus I recognize what the members at GGC are feeling all too well.I was a member of a small church here in Memphis and we also had one of Frank Rays pimping preacher in training,whom he took under his wing and teaching him how to fleece his flock as well.We separated from a church and at first he appeared to care about the flock ,but when a group of preacher worshippers came into the church he changed,he suddenly started expecting goodies from the congregation.The ones who sucked up to him got a peice of the cake,in loans for car and houses.Folks we knew couldn't afford it showed up Jeep Cherokee and 200,000.00 homes.He also told the leaders (which I was one at the time ) to give 100.00 and didn't tell us what It would used for and got mad when I questioned it.This man also had affair after affair with the young women in the church.People its time to wake up and take our churches back,stop settling and use you brain and discernment,if It walk like a dog,bark like a dog,smell like a dog.. then what......It Is A Dog!!!!Remember in Timothy when It stated when you see these things going form the pulpit......Turn away!!!!!!
As a Christian myself, I find it VERY hard to believe that Bishop Stevens made this request. Let's be realistic. What sounds more like the truth is to make a sacrificial offering (which is above your 10% in tithes). I believe he probably requested that, and there is absolutely nothing wrong with that. Instead of being critical, I ask that you all seek the real truth if that's what you want to know. Don't be guppies people, research and find the true answer instead of being TOLD everything. Any upstanding individual with common sense would investigate before formulating a premature opinion.
And as far as his assets, I could care less. I definately don't want any of you jealous Memphians hating on me when I get my Ed.D. and my large home in the 'burbs. You alls focus is on the wrong stuff.
At some point, we have to stop being so stupid with things that we don't understand! Please know this, no matter what your personal views are about Bishop Stephens or any other person of the clothe, your best recourse is to keep it to yourself. This mess only strengthens the person that it is designed to hurt and it will bring curses to anyone who touches God's anointed. While this may be a joke or a "civic" duty to you, please know that God is not mocked and any and all workers of iniquity will be destroyed. So continue if you must, but vengence is mine says the Lord and God will have His way and His day with every one of you. God's promises are still good and will come true. My advice, repent of your harmful words and ask God for forgiveness, grace and mercy. When your time comes, you will need it. Be blessed, the chosen people of God who are not consumed or affected by negative words and who will take a stand and pray for our Christian leaders and thier families.
Please Thaddeus post a picture of his houses. Just curiuos how he is living beyond the walls of Skinny Pimps Church LOL!!!
I trully dont expect anyone to give the church their check, and i dont think bishop was asking that. I believe what he meant was if you are able to make this sacrafice then do so, if not then dont.
P.S. The same people
that bishop is accused
of exploiting is being
exploited by Thaddeus
Mathews and for the
reasons.
OMG!!!!!!! r u serious... i cannot fathem that he would ask his congregation for their whole check.....I love going to church and though im not really an active member of any church...when i did pay my tithes as a faithful christian ..i would give it to people who needed it outside the church or if im uncomfortable with what the pastor asks for wheter it be an offering or not...I dont always use my "spiritual eyes". I SIMPLY USE THE GOOD SENSE GOD GAVE ME.
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